Fernandes laying foundations

Tony Fernandes: Fully committed to his role at Queens Park Rangers

Tony Fernandes is determined to bring stability back to Queens Park Rangers and has assured supporters that he is planning to stick around for a long time.

The Malaysian businessman acquired a controlling stake in the capital outfit back in August 2011 and immediately set about trying to consolidate them in the Premier League.

He has, however, inherited a side that has struggled on and off the field to establish any kind of consistency in recent years.

Fernandes appreciates that he has work to do if QPR are to become top flight regulars, with the club currently embroiled in a basement battle.

He says relegation would not be a disaster for the Rs, as he is working long-term, but appreciates that survival would aid his cause considerably.

Foundation

"QPR need a good foundation," Fernandes told the Daily Express.

"I am coming in later to this project than with Air Asia or with Caterham. So it doesn't matter if we get relegated. I still have to do what I have to do.

"I have to build an academy, a training ground. I have to have a manager who will be with me for the next five to seven years and has the same vision.

"So, am I daunted by going down? No. Will I be devastated? Absolutely. But does that mean that is the end of the road for QPR? Certainly not. Many clubs have been down there and been resolute in building again.

"It gives me great satisfaction when I see what Caterham are achieving and Air Asia. And it makes me even more resolute that football is no different.

"Am I daunted by going down? No. Will I be devastated? Absolutely. But does that mean that is the end of the road for QPR? Certainly not."
Tony Fernandes Quotes of the week

"The right foundations must be in place. I want boys here who have been here since they were 16, because then they have QPR in their blood. Staying up would make things a lot easier, obviously - and I think we will."

Hungry

Mark Hughes is the man charged with the task of steering QPR to safety and Fernandes has offered his full support to the current occupant of the Loftus Road hot-seat.

"We expected teething problems," he said.

"Mark has hardly had his first XI on the pitch yet. He is the right guy. I don't for one second doubt it. He's hungry and I look for that in people.

"I look at Fulham, I look at Everton. Those are the models for this club. I am not here to make up the numbers. I am here to compete."