QPR WON’T STAND IN BEALE’S WAY IF HE WANTS GERS JOB

QPR chief Les Ferdinand last night insisted he won’t block Michael Beale’s path if the former Ibrox coach is serious about a return to Rangers. Steven Gerrard’s one-time No.2 (left) is clear favourite to replace Gio van Bronckhorst, who was sacked yesterday after weeks of speculation. Former Burnley boss Sean Dyche and Kevin Muscat, Celtic chief Ange Postecoglou’s successor at Japanese champions Yokohama, are also contenders. But it is understood Beale is leading the race and is interested in replacing the Dutchman (above, right).

The Londoner, 42, was a senior figure in Gerrard’s backroom team as they led Rangers to their first title in a decade 18 months ago but left when the Liverpool legend was lured south by Aston Villa.

QPR director of football Ferdinand insists he has yet to receive any word from Ibrox but he confessed he will be willing to talk if Beale makes it clear he is interested in the Ibrox vacancy. Ferdinand said: “I haven’t spoken to Michael or Rangers about this.

“But I expected Michael’s name would be mentioned for the role at Rangers because he did such a good job while he was up there working with Steven. I don’t want to have to fight to keep anyone at QPR. I only want people at the football club who want to be here.”