Philip Beard becomes new Queens Park Rangers chief executive

Philip Beard has been appointed the new chief executive officer of Queens Park Rangers, the club has announced.

The news follows QPR's recent takeover by AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes, who said that Beard - former chief executive of The O2 Arena - had an "exemplary" record in the events industry.

Beard said: “I am utterly thrilled to be joining QPR in this hugely exciting chapter in the club’s history. I will be focusing on helping it become the very best club it can be, both on and off the pitch.

"I want to ensure the best possible experience for the people who support us day in and day out – our loyal supporters."

Fernandes is thought to have given QPR manager Neil Warnock the greenlight to hire five new players in the next week.