Paladini leaves Loftus Road

Former Queens Park Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini left the English Premier League club by mutual consent, the west London side said in a statement. Paladini's decision to leave Loftus Road comes following the takeover of the club by Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes in August. The 65-year-old Paladini stepped down as chairman following airline magnate Fernandes's arrival, but continued his eight-year association with Rangers in an advisory capacity until today's announcement. "Former QPR chairman Gianni Paladini has left the club by mutual consent," a club statement said. Paladini who helped guide Rangers back into the top-flight this term after a 15-year absence from the Premier League, said: "QPR will always be very close to my heart and I am extremely proud to see the team playing in the Premier League. I wish the club, players, staff and fans all the very best for the future." QPR chief executive Philip Beard added: "On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Gianni for his contribution to Queens Park Rangers over the years. "He has gone beyond the call of duty in his time here and in more recent times, played an integral role in our return to the Premier League, as well as assisting the football management team with the acquisition of some key players. He will always be welcome back here to support the team and we wish him every success for the future." Rangers, managed by Neil Warnock, are currently in 11th place with established Premier League teams Fulham, Everton and Blackburn, among others, all below them in the table.