Terry Venables was installed as the new manager of QPR in 1980 and he would go on to become one of the clubs finest ever managers during his four year spell in charge at the club. After seeing his side finish off in eighth position at the end of the 1980 – 1981 season, Venables guided Rangers to an incredible FA Cup run in 1982 as his side reached the final of the cup competition, only suffering defeat against reigning winners, Tottenham Hotspur. It was the 1982 – 1983 campaign which Venables guided Rangers to promotion in to the first division as they were a dominant force in the second division, running out of the division as clear winners.
Venables proved to be a real hero at QPR by the end of the 1983 – 1984 season as he guided his side to a fifth position finish in the top flight as they established themselves as a major force in the first division. Venables would later on become England manager. After the departure of Venables, Rangers had various managers in charge at the club during the 1984 – 1985 season, however they narrowly escaped relegation, finishing off the season in 19th position. They enjoyed a great run in the league cup, suffering defeat against Ipswich Town in the last eight.