QPR and Harry Redknapp are to begin talks "shortly" about the vacant manager's position at Loftus Road.

A spokesman for Paul Stretford's Triple S Sports and Entertainment company said: "Contact has been made between QPR and us as Harry Redknapp's representatives.Talks will be beginning shortly."

Mark Hughes was sacked earlier today by the London club, who have not won a Premier League game all season.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has blamed the need to secure a share of the new television deal for Mark Hughes' exit as QPR manager.

Clubs in next season's top flight will rake in bumper payments and Pardew believes the risk of missing out has had a detrimental effect on job security for him and his colleagues.

Pardew said: "It's difficult. The new TV contract that's coming in, the extra funds for next year, I think is putting extra pressure on boards and they are reacting.

"You can't afford not to be in the Premier League this year and Mark might not be the only one (to be sacked)."

Former Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was immediately installed as favourite to replace Hughes and while Pardew welcomed his impending return to the game, he also voiced his fears over the prospects for younger managers.

He said: "It would be nice to see Harry back. He adds a personality to the league and he brings a lot of knowledge.

"This fear of coming out of the Premier League is good news for experienced managers because they are the ones who are going to get the vote over younger managers, which is a slight shame.

"I hope the younger managers in the division fare well up until the summer. Paul Lambert and guys everywhere else up and down the country deserve support."