birminghammail--2020-06-28--Police issue statement after YouTube star draws huge crowds in city centre

Police have released a statement after hundreds of people gathered in the city centre to meet a YouTube star .
Fans swarmed to the Bullring area from 2pm on Sunday ( June 28 ) to meet Jayden Gray who is better known for his Canking channel .
The World ’ s largest Primark was reportedly also shut an hour earlier than usual after large groups gathered .
Superintendent Gareth Morris , from West Midlands Police , tweeted around 5.45pm : `` Numbers of groups in the city centre appear to be a result of some internet bloggers attending the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see them .
`` Officers in attendance and hopefully starting to resolve now . ''
Canking has gained a huge following for his public singing challenges and street interviews .
Several videos show the YouTube star , who boasts nearly 270k subscribers , saying hello and fist bumping his thrilled fans as he moved around the area .
At one point , they all tightly gather round the star and cheer .
A witness said : “ They were following someone ... young guy I am guessing well known maybe singer but not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other shops had to close due to massive groups trying to enter.
” A staff member at the world ’ s largest Primark , off the High Street , confirmed they were forced to shut at 4pm - an hour before the usual Sunday closing time at 5pm .
A spokesperson for Bullring & Grand Central says : “ The safety of our shoppers , colleagues and retailers is our foremost concern and we urge all visitors to follow social distancing guidelines.
” Canking was born and raised in Ireland until he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He launched his YouTube channel in January 2012 and has built up a huge following online .

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Police have released a statement after hundreds of people gathered in the city centre to meet a YouTube star.
Fans swarmed to the Bullring area from 2pm on Sunday (June 28) to meet Jayden Gray who is better known for his Canking channel.
The World’s largest Primark was reportedly also shut an hour earlier than usual after large groups gathered.
Superintendent Gareth Morris, from West Midlands Police, tweeted around 5.45pm: "Numbers of groups in the city centre appear to be a result of some internet bloggers attending the city and young fans turning up hoping to see them.
(Image: Graham Oakley)
"Officers in attendance and hopefully starting to resolve now."
Canking has gained a huge following for his public singing challenges and street interviews.
Several videos show the YouTube star, who boasts nearly 270k subscribers, saying hello and fist bumping his thrilled fans as he moved around the area.
At one point, they all tightly gather round the star and cheer.
A witness said: “They were following someone...young guy I am guessing well known maybe singer but not sure.
“There were young girls screaming.
“Primark and a few other shops had to close due to massive groups trying to enter.”
A staff member at the world’s largest Primark, off the High Street, confirmed they were forced to shut at 4pm - an hour before the usual Sunday closing time at 5pm.
A spokesperson for Bullring & Grand Central says: “The safety of our shoppers, colleagues and retailers is our foremost concern and we urge all visitors to follow social distancing guidelines.”
Canking was born and raised in Ireland until he was 10 years old before moving to England. He launched his YouTube channel in January 2012 and has built up a huge following online.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Villa hero Paul McGrath sends message to Liverpool over £72m deal

The signing of Kalidou Koulibaly would help Liverpool to dominate the Premier League for years to come , according to Aston Villa hero Paul McGrath .
Koulibaly , the Napoli defender , has long been linked with a move to England having excelled in Serie A for several seasons .
While McGrath 's former club Villa are focused on matters at the bottom of the table , Liverpool 's first title in 30 years was confirmed when second-placed Manchester City lost to Chelsea midweek .
The Reds are reportedly keen on £72m-rated Koulibaly and McGrath reckons the addition of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Klopp 's side become an unstoppable force .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' I ’ ll be astonished if he [ Koulibaly ] is not playing in English football next season , '' McGrath , affectionately known as 'God ' at Villa Park , wrote for the Irish Independent .
`` Chelsea want him , the two Manchester clubs want him .
But imagine if Liverpool went out and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virgil ] Van Dijk ?
`` Strikers in English football , and across Europe too , could just give up .
You would not get many goals past those two with Alisson behind them .
`` It ’ s the way Liverpool have to be thinking now .
It ’ s the way the Anfield club always behaved in the glory days .
`` They were already champions when the likes of Mark Lawrenson , John Barnes and John Aldridge were brought to the club – they were purchased to KEEP Liverpool champions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bottom three on goal difference after the defeat against Wolves , face the newly-crowned champions at Anfield next weekend .

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The signing of Kalidou Koulibaly would help Liverpool to dominate the Premier League for years to come, according to Aston Villa hero Paul McGrath.
Koulibaly, the Napoli defender, has long been linked with a move to England having excelled in Serie A for several seasons.
While McGrath's former club Villa are focused on matters at the bottom of the table, Liverpool's first title in 30 years was confirmed when second-placed Manchester City lost to Chelsea midweek.
The Reds are reportedly keen on £72m-rated Koulibaly and McGrath reckons the addition of the Senegal international this summer could see Jurgen Klopp's side become an unstoppable force.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"I’ll be astonished if he [Koulibaly] is not playing in English football next season," McGrath, affectionately known as 'God' at Villa Park, wrote for the Irish Independent.
"Chelsea want him, the two Manchester clubs want him. But imagine if Liverpool went out and got him and paired him with [Virgil] Van Dijk?
"Strikers in English football, and across Europe too, could just give up. You would not get many goals past those two with Alisson behind them.
"It’s the way Liverpool have to be thinking now. It’s the way the Anfield club always behaved in the glory days.
"They were already champions when the likes of Mark Lawrenson, John Barnes and John Aldridge were brought to the club – they were purchased to KEEP Liverpool champions."
Villa, who remain in the bottom three on goal difference after the defeat against Wolves, face the newly-crowned champions at Anfield next weekend.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Aston Villa issue key update on 2020/21 kit ahead of release

Aston Villa have started their transition into the coming season with the announcement of a key sponsorship decision .
Villa 's first season back in the Premier League after last season 's promotion triumph saw the club partner with gaming site W88 and BR88 during the current - and extended - 19/20 season .
However , regardless of where Villa end up at the conclusion of the campaign , they will be splitting with W88 .
`` Aston Villa can confirm that the Principal Partnership with W88 will end following the completion of the 19/20 season , '' read a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store '' The online betting and gaming site ’ s deal saw them appear on the front of all first-team kits during the 2019/20 season and their partnership with Aston Villa will come to its natural end .
The club would like to thank W88 for their support over the past 12 months . ''
W88 with BR88 followed Unibet and 32RED as Villa 's third successive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry .
W88 sponsored Wolves last season , and are a current partner of Leicester City .
Fans hoping for an 'ethical ' change in partner for Villa may have to wait .
Heavy links emerged earlier this year that SportPesa - who have faced a number of recent setbacks - were set to sponsor the club for the 20/21 season .
Naturally , Villa will have already arranged a sponsor for the forthcoming season , but no announcement has been officially made by the club , but key figures at SportPesa have @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Aston Villa have started their transition into the coming season with the announcement of a key sponsorship decision.
Villa's first season back in the Premier League after last season's promotion triumph saw the club partner with gaming site W88 and BR88 during the current - and extended - 19/20 season.
However, regardless of where Villa end up at the conclusion of the campaign, they will be splitting with W88.
"Aston Villa can confirm that the Principal Partnership with W88 will end following the completion of the 19/20 season," read a club statement released earlier today.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"The online betting and gaming site’s deal saw them appear on the front of all first-team kits during the 2019/20 season and their partnership with Aston Villa will come to its natural end.
The club would like to thank W88 for their support over the past 12 months."
W88 with BR88 followed Unibet and 32RED as Villa's third successive principal partner primarily based in the gambling industry. W88 sponsored Wolves last season, and are a current partner of Leicester City.
Fans hoping for an 'ethical' change in partner for Villa may have to wait. Heavy links emerged earlier this year that SportPesa - who have faced a number of recent setbacks - were set to sponsor the club for the 20/21 season.
Naturally, Villa will have already arranged a sponsor for the forthcoming season, but no announcement has been officially made by the club, but key figures at SportPesa have suggested a deal has been made.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Police close road near to golf centre following crash

A road near to a golf centre in Codsall has been closed off following a crash .
Emergency services were @ @ @ @ @ near to the Ledene Golf Centre - this afternoon ( Sunday , June 28 ) @ @ @ @ @ off while the police and medics dealt with the incident .
It is not clear @ @ @ @ @ or taken to hospital at the moment .
However , Black Country Live has contacted @ @ @ @ @ Ambulance Service for more information .
The force took to Twitter to warn other motorists @ @ @ @ @ along with a picture of the road block .
The tweet said : `` Wood @ @ @ @ @ , Codsall Wood , is blocked due to a road accident .
`` Please avoid @ @ @ @ @ whilst police and ambulance sort things out .
Thanks for your patience . ''

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A road near to a golf centre in Codsall has been closed off following a crash.
Emergency services were called to Wood Road - near to the Ledene Golf Centre - this afternoon (Sunday, June 28).
The road was blocked off while the police and medics dealt with the incident. It is not clear if anyone has been injured or taken to hospital at the moment. However, Black Country Live has contacted Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service for more information.
The force took to Twitter to warn other motorists to avoid the area, along with a picture of the road block. The tweet said: "Wood Road by Ledene Golf Centre, Codsall Wood, is blocked due to a road accident.
"Please avoid area for a short time whilst police and ambulance sort things out. Thanks for your patience."


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Fulham boss Scott Parker makes West Brom admission after defeat

Scott Parker admits catching West Bromwich Albion could be out of Fulham 's reach .
Fulham slipped to fifth place in the Championship table after a comprehensive 3-0 defeat against Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday .
The result took Leeds three points clear ahead of Albion at the top of table with Slaven Bilic 's side having been beaten 1-0 by Brentford on Friday night .
Fulham , who visit The Hawthorns on July 14 , trail the automatic promotion places by seven points with seven matches left to play .
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Google Play Store and App Store “ I think that ( automatic promotion ) is going to be a big ask , ” said the Cottagers manager .
“ I wouldn ’ t write it off .
We are in a world where the unexpected and surprises can happen .
“ We have seen in a short period results in the last couple of games , surprises can come about .
“ We came wanting to win the game and to keep that alive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going and do that .
Our ambition is to keep it going and we ’ ll do that and push as much as we can.
” Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa didn ’ t appear interested in reading too much into the weekend 's developments and hinted that he expects more twists and turns to come in the next month or so .
“ The win was necessary for us , very important , ” Bielsa told LeedsLive after the game .
“ In every match we are going to talk about numeric modification @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very difficult to interpret any circumstance as a tendency.
” Brentford cut the gap on Albion to five points with their win at Griffin Park while Nottingham Forest are fourth after seeing off Huddersfield Town on Sunday .

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Scott Parker admits catching West Bromwich Albion could be out of Fulham's reach.
Fulham slipped to fifth place in the Championship table after a comprehensive 3-0 defeat against Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday.
The result took Leeds three points clear ahead of Albion at the top of table with Slaven Bilic's side having been beaten 1-0 by Brentford on Friday night.
Fulham, who visit The Hawthorns on July 14, trail the automatic promotion places by seven points with seven matches left to play.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
“I think that (automatic promotion) is going to be a big ask,” said the Cottagers manager. “I wouldn’t write it off. We are in a world where the unexpected and surprises can happen.
“We have seen in a short period results in the last couple of games, surprises can come about.
“We came wanting to win the game and to keep that alive and our focus is to still keep going and do that. Our ambition is to keep it going and we’ll do that and push as much as we can.”
Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa didn’t appear interested in reading too much into the weekend's developments and hinted that he expects more twists and turns to come in the next month or so.
“The win was necessary for us, very important,” Bielsa told LeedsLive after the game. “In every match we are going to talk about numeric modification in the table.
“It is very difficult to interpret any circumstance as a tendency.”
Brentford cut the gap on Albion to five points with their win at Griffin Park while Nottingham Forest are fourth after seeing off Huddersfield Town on Sunday.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Fans crowd Birmingham city centre to meet YouTube star at Bullring

Large crowds turned out in Birmingham city centre to see a famous YouTube personality .
Hundreds of people headed to the Bullring from 2pm on Sunday ( June 28 ) to meet Jayden Gray , who is better known for his Canking channel .
Jayden has gained a huge following for his public singing challenges and street interviews .
A video by the YouTube star , who boasts nearly 270k subscribers , showed him saying hello and fist bumping his screaming , thrilled fans as he moved around the shopping area .
A witness said : “ They were following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , well known maybe singer but not sure .
“ Primark and a few other shops had to close due to massive groups trying to enter.
” Primark was forced to close an hour early at 4pm instead of 5pm , after large group s reportedly tried to enter the premises .
A staff member at the world ’ s largest Primark , off the High Street , confirmed they were forced to shut at 4pm - an hour before the usual Sunday closing time of 5pm .
A Bullring spokeswoman said she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close but added : “ Obviously safety is paramount and obviously we want that for all our shoppers.
” Jayden was born and raised in Ireland until he was 10 years old before moving to England .
He launched his YouTube channel in January 2012 and has built up a huge following online .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk ( birminghammail.co.uk, Stephanie Balloo)

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Large crowds turned out in Birmingham city centre to see a famous YouTube personality.
Hundreds of people headed to the Bullring from 2pm on Sunday (June 28) to meet Jayden Gray, who is better known for his Canking channel.
Jayden has gained a huge following for his public singing challenges and street interviews.
A video by the YouTube star, who boasts nearly 270k subscribers, showed him saying hello and fist bumping his screaming, thrilled fans as he moved around the shopping area.
(Image: Graham Oakley)
A witness said: “They were following someone...young guy I am guessing, well known maybe singer but not sure.
“There were young girls screaming.
“Primark and a few other shops had to close due to massive groups trying to enter.”
Primark was forced to close an hour early at 4pm instead of 5pm, after large group s reportedly tried to enter the premises.
A staff member at the world’s largest Primark, off the High Street, confirmed they were forced to shut at 4pm - an hour before the usual Sunday closing time of 5pm.
A Bullring spokeswoman said she would verify if shops were forced to close but added: “Obviously safety is paramount and obviously we want that for all our shoppers.”
Jayden was born and raised in Ireland until he was 10 years old before moving to England. He launched his YouTube channel in January 2012 and has built up a huge following online.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Explained - xG and the Aston Villa theory confusing fans

There 's a lot that has been said by Aston Villa head coach Dean Smith over the last few games , and the phrase 'expected goals ' has come up a number of times .
Mostly , they have been used to justify results .
Villa have 'led ' opposition teams a number of times in xG since returning , a situation that barely happened at all before the break .
That 's a positive situation , but the tangible results have n't followed , and it has been suggested that Villa should 've won , or drawn , based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Is Dean Smith right in his post-match lectures on xG ?
Well , sort of .
Expected goals is used as a measure of shot quality , but can be poorly utilised .
We all fall victim to cognitive bias .
Mostly , an amateur use of stats will only inform bias .
For example , if we believe Villa are playing poorly - we will highlight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What 's that tool that must be used when we consider stats ?
Context .
Analysis goes astray when context is n't provided alongside the use of statistics , this is why usage of 'single game xG ' can often be misleading .
We can all be guilty of saying a team should 've won based on a shot map , however that type of data is much stronger when used to spot trends over a number of fixtures , rather than making assumptions off a single set of data .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably defending a little better , and attacking a little better than before the break .
What we can not say , is that we deserved certain results based on single game datasets .
Why ?
Because that highlights one of the biggest issues with using single-game xG , which is ignoring game states , and the natural balance of games .
For instance - and this is pure hypothesis - but if Villa had scored twice against Chelsea , we 'd expect a stronger showing from the Blues to get back into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to strong-arm Villa further and work better chances due to their desperation to get something out of the match .
A team that is chasing the game is usually going to have a higher expected goals tally simply because it can not step off .
It must throw everything at a game to redeem some kind of a result .
The balance of the match adjusts and the team in the lead usually steps off as a result .
While this is n't often the case with Villa when they are behind , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bigger and better effort to score - either creating better chances or shooting a lot more .
Simply stating whether a team should 've won or lost without taking into account the game states can be quite problematic .
And Dean Smith mentioned it once more after the Wolves loss '' I said before about expected goals , I know it 's only a marker , but on expected goals we 'd have won two and drew two .
We 'll pick ourselves up because we have too , '' said Smith to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ xG is also a marker - but to say that the metric states that Villa would 've won twice ( Newcastle and Sheffield United ) , and drawn twice is a pretty loaded statement .
It 's also pretty confusing for fans - analysts and managers watch matches over and over , and uses stats to back up what they say .
Fans , like myself , will likely only watch once and formulate an opinion there and then .
Rightly or wrongly , this causes a flashpoint .
Breaking that down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the win in a few games but it does n't account for Villa 's biggest problem which is switching off .
It ignores the fact that Sheffield United actually 'scored ' and Villa did n't really look capable of scoring themselves , it also does a lot of heavy lifting for the mistakes that led to Newcastle taking the lead .
It also ignores the quality of player on the end of a chance .
The draws are fairer - Villa perhaps did enough in both games for a point against Chelsea and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another goal , or a goal at all , to hang it all on xG ignores the potential reaction of both teams to those goals .
Do we think Wolves and Chelsea are n't going to attack Villa at 2-2 or 1-1 ?
The truth of the matter is this .
xG is a fantastic measure over the course of a full season , or at least a fuller set of data .
We can make brilliant predictions from it and judge player quality in chance creation and finishing .
It 's far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While Villa are possibly playing better than before , it has still not been enough .
Averages commonly balance out , but that requires a long run of games .
Fairness is possible in football , but not in such a short span of time .
If Villa can not make the most of the chances they make , they will be going down .
Villa themselves have n't been 'too bad ' - but in context , they need points .
They do a lot of hard work for essentially no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Chances only really matter in this circumstance if you 're going to score them , though .
For Smith , statistics are only fighting against him .
For once , yes , they are lining up - but fans want , and need , results , as much as he will himself .
The saving grace ?
Out of the other sides in the bottom six , it is perhaps Villa who have been the most impressive alongside Brighton .
That could all change with one bad week in terms of results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter .
Not much will .

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There's a lot that has been said by Aston Villa head coach Dean Smith over the last few games, and the phrase 'expected goals' has come up a number of times.
Mostly, they have been used to justify results. Villa have 'led' opposition teams a number of times in xG since returning, a situation that barely happened at all before the break.
That's a positive situation, but the tangible results haven't followed, and it has been suggested that Villa should've won, or drawn, based on their xG tallies.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Is Dean Smith right in his post-match lectures on xG? Well, sort of.
Expected goals is used as a measure of shot quality, but can be poorly utilised. We all fall victim to cognitive bias. Mostly, an amateur use of stats will only inform bias.
For example, if we believe Villa are playing poorly - we will highlight statistics that reflect that, and vice-versa. What's that tool that must be used when we consider stats? Context.
Analysis goes astray when context isn't provided alongside the use of statistics, this is why usage of 'single game xG' can often be misleading. We can all be guilty of saying a team should've won based on a shot map, however that type of data is much stronger when used to spot trends over a number of fixtures, rather than making assumptions off a single set of data.
We can confidently say that Aston Villa are probably defending a little better, and attacking a little better than before the break.
What we cannot say, is that we deserved certain results based on single game datasets.
Why? Because that highlights one of the biggest issues with using single-game xG, which is ignoring game states, and the natural balance of games.
For instance - and this is pure hypothesis - but if Villa had scored twice against Chelsea, we'd expect a stronger showing from the Blues to get back into the game. They'd have tried to strong-arm Villa further and work better chances due to their desperation to get something out of the match. A team that is chasing the game is usually going to have a higher expected goals tally simply because it cannot step off. It must throw everything at a game to redeem some kind of a result. The balance of the match adjusts and the team in the lead usually steps off as a result.
While this isn't often the case with Villa when they are behind, but the team trailing usually makes a bigger and better effort to score - either creating better chances or shooting a lot more.
Simply stating whether a team should've won or lost without taking into account the game states can be quite problematic.
And Dean Smith mentioned it once more after the Wolves loss
"I said before about expected goals, I know it's only a marker, but on expected goals we'd have won two and drew two. We'll pick ourselves up because we have too," said Smith to VillaTV.
Rightly, he said that xG is also a marker - but to say that the metric states that Villa would've won twice (Newcastle and Sheffield United), and drawn twice is a pretty loaded statement.
It's also pretty confusing for fans - analysts and managers watch matches over and over, and uses stats to back up what they say. Fans, like myself, will likely only watch once and formulate an opinion there and then.
Rightly or wrongly, this causes a flashpoint.
Breaking that down, xG maybe says that Villa 'deserved' the win in a few games but it doesn't account for Villa's biggest problem which is switching off. It ignores the fact that Sheffield United actually 'scored' and Villa didn't really look capable of scoring themselves, it also does a lot of heavy lifting for the mistakes that led to Newcastle taking the lead.
It also ignores the quality of player on the end of a chance.
The draws are fairer - Villa perhaps did enough in both games for a point against Chelsea and Wolves - but had the Villans scored another goal, or a goal at all, to hang it all on xG ignores the potential reaction of both teams to those goals. Do we think Wolves and Chelsea aren't going to attack Villa at 2-2 or 1-1?
More on Expected Goals (xG) Expected goals, after surging from the fringes of the game is now a mainstream phrase, and isn't just limited to more advanced football analysis. Despite i's fairly simple approach and visualisation, it can still be quite confusing, especially to a beginner. Not to worry. Once you're done here, we've got some reading material for you if you're interested that covers plenty of bases! Cartilage Free Captain have a great explainer video on xG.
This is how xG is used alongside other metrics.
For a more advanced thesis behind game states and their influence on xG, Statsbomb have you covered.
There's also more on game states here.
Understat have an xG table which you can find here.
The truth of the matter is this. xG is a fantastic measure over the course of a full season, or at least a fuller set of data. We can make brilliant predictions from it and judge player quality in chance creation and finishing.
It's far, far too late for that now. While Villa are possibly playing better than before, it has still not been enough.
Averages commonly balance out, but that requires a long run of games. Fairness is possible in football, but not in such a short span of time. If Villa cannot make the most of the chances they make, they will be going down.
Villa themselves haven't been 'too bad' - but in context, they need points. They do a lot of hard work for essentially no other reason than to make good chances.
Chances only really matter in this circumstance if you're going to score them, though. For Smith, statistics are only fighting against him. For once, yes, they are lining up - but fans want, and need, results, as much as he will himself.
The saving grace? Out of the other sides in the bottom six, it is perhaps Villa who have been the most impressive alongside Brighton. That could all change with one bad week in terms of results.
And then? xG won't matter. Not much will.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--What Gerrard has said about his Rangers future amid Blues links

Steven Gerrard is being linked with manager 's job at Birmingham City as part of the search to find Pep Clotet 's replacement .
Clotet announced earlier this month he will leave his position as head coach at St Andrew 's at the end of the season .
The 43-year-old , who initially joined Blues two years ago as Garry Monk 's assistant manager , took charge after Monk 's departure a year ago .
Reports emerged earlier this week claiming Gerrard is on the shortlist of contenders - including the likes of Lee Bowyer and Chris Hughton - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store The former Liverpool midfielder was appointed by Rangers in 2018 in his first full managerial role following a stint as a youth coach at Anfield .
It is n't the first time Gerrard has been linked with a return to England - he has even been touted as the next Liverpool boss - and only last month he gave an update on his future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Times , he said : `` If people think I am going to leave Rangers in the near future because it is my decision , and I don ’ t want to be there , then that opinion is wrong .
`` In terms of me being proud and happy to be the manager , and wanting to move the club forward and improve it , then I am all in .
It was always going to be a job where I had to learn on the go .
`` Now , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was going to get everything right and everything was going to be positive .
I knew the team and squad situation when I took over .
I knew the pressure and the demands of the fans .
`` I knew walking into the job what I was taking on but if you are asking me the question , ‘ Am I a better manager for the two-year experience and are Rangers in a better position now to what they were ?
’ Then my answer is yes .
`` We are trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successful for a long time .
I think you have to realise , and appreciate , where Rangers were .
It takes time to get it back to when they were successful and had incredible managers like Graeme Souness and Walter Smith .
`` It was always going to take time to get back .
I see a lot of progress .
I see us getting better but I appreciate that at Rangers eventually you have to win .
You can ’ t be nearly . ''
Gerrard is said to have turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and caretaker boss Lee Carsley is currently the favourite with the bookmakers .

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Steven Gerrard is being linked with manager's job at Birmingham City as part of the search to find Pep Clotet's replacement.
Clotet announced earlier this month he will leave his position as head coach at St Andrew's at the end of the season.
The 43-year-old, who initially joined Blues two years ago as Garry Monk's assistant manager, took charge after Monk's departure a year ago.
Reports emerged earlier this week claiming Gerrard is on the shortlist of contenders - including the likes of Lee Bowyer and Chris Hughton - and that he had been approached by Blues.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The former Liverpool midfielder was appointed by Rangers in 2018 in his first full managerial role following a stint as a youth coach at Anfield.
It isn't the first time Gerrard has been linked with a return to England - he has even been touted as the next Liverpool boss - and only last month he gave an update on his future at Ibrox.
In an interview with the Times, he said: "If people think I am going to leave Rangers in the near future because it is my decision, and I don’t want to be there, then that opinion is wrong.
"In terms of me being proud and happy to be the manager, and wanting to move the club forward and improve it, then I am all in. It was always going to be a job where I had to learn on the go.
"Now, I never for one moment thought I was going to get everything right and everything was going to be positive. I knew the team and squad situation when I took over. I knew the pressure and the demands of the fans.
"I knew walking into the job what I was taking on but if you are asking me the question, ‘Am I a better manager for the two-year experience and are Rangers in a better position now to what they were?’ Then my answer is yes.
"We are trying to move and upset something that has been successful for a long time. I think you have to realise, and appreciate, where Rangers were. It takes time to get it back to when they were successful and had incredible managers like Graeme Souness and Walter Smith.
"It was always going to take time to get back. I see a lot of progress. I see us getting better but I appreciate that at Rangers eventually you have to win. You can’t be nearly."
Gerrard is said to have turned down Blues' advances and former captain and caretaker boss Lee Carsley is currently the favourite with the bookmakers.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Bullets fired at Small Heath house in drive by-shooting

An investigation is under way after shots were fired at a house in a drive-by shooting .
A property on Barnesville Close , Small Heath , was peppered with bullets , around 3.30am on Saturday ( June 27 ) .
Images from the scene show boarded up front windows .
Forensics officers sealed off the road on Saturday while they conducted their enquiries .
A spokeswoman from West Midlands Police said : “ We were called to reports of shots fired at a house in Birmingham yesterday ( 27 June ) .
“ It ’ s thought that the shots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house on Barnesville Close , Small Heath at around 3.30am .
“ Fortunately no one has been injured and enquires are underway to determine what happened.
” The incident comes as police announced uniformed and plain clothes officers will be concentrating their efforts in areas such as Handsworth , Newtown , Birmingham city centre , Digbeth , Aston and Ladywood , where the threat of gun crime is greatest .
They will be joined by traffic officers and armed patrols will be out in force to reassure communities and deter criminals .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discharges across the force compared to 41 in the same period last year .
Police have also taken 39 guns off the streets , compared to 21 in the same period in 2019 .
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets .
So it 's important to know what 's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system .
Large , highly populated urban areas like Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings .
You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article , which looks like this : It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts .
We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of the Birmingham Organised Crime Team , said : “ We know there are tensions between some criminal gangs at the moment , so we ’ re responding to that by making sure officers are in the right places at the right times .
“ It ’ s also vital that we let the law-abiding people of those areas know that we are taking action and we are here to help .
“ We ’ ve got community representatives who we ’ ve invited to view the operation closely over the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is asked to contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101 , quoting log number 581 27/6 .

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An investigation is under way after shots were fired at a house in a drive-by shooting.
A property on Barnesville Close, Small Heath, was peppered with bullets, around 3.30am on Saturday (June 27).
Images from the scene show boarded up front windows. Forensics officers sealed off the road on Saturday while they conducted their enquiries.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
A spokeswoman from West Midlands Police said: “We were called to reports of shots fired at a house in Birmingham yesterday (27 June).
“It’s thought that the shots were fired from a car towards the house on Barnesville Close, Small Heath at around 3.30am.
“Fortunately no one has been injured and enquires are underway to determine what happened.”
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
The incident comes as police announced uniformed and plain clothes officers will be concentrating their efforts in areas such as Handsworth, Newtown, Birmingham city centre, Digbeth, Aston and Ladywood, where the threat of gun crime is greatest.
They will be joined by traffic officers and armed patrols will be out in force to reassure communities and deter criminals.
Since April, there have been 31 firearms discharges across the force compared to 41 in the same period last year. Police have also taken 39 guns off the streets, compared to 21 in the same period in 2019.
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets. So it's important to know what's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system. Large, highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings. You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter. Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article. It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts. We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region. Find it on Google Play Store and App Store
Ch Insp Phil Cape, of the Birmingham Organised Crime Team, said: “We know there are tensions between some criminal gangs at the moment, so we’re responding to that by making sure officers are in the right places at the right times.
“It’s also vital that we let the law-abiding people of those areas know that we are taking action and we are here to help.
“We’ve got community representatives who we’ve invited to view the operation closely over the next few days.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting log number 581 27/6.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Raul Jimenez issues promise to Wolves amid transfer interest

Raul Jimenez has promised not to let any transfer speculation distract him from a record-breaking season for Wolverhampton Wanderers .
The striker became Mexico 's best-ever Premier League goalscorer in a single campaign by notching his 15th of the season in the midweek win against Bournemouth .
His tally stands at 24 in all competitions this term having also enjoyed a prolific run of form in the Europa League .
It is no surprise that a number of clubs across Europe are being linked with Jimenez ahead of the summer transfer window , with the likes of Manchester United and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store The 29-year-old admits he has seen the rumours but remains fully focused on matters at Molineux .
`` First of all I am very happy here with Wolves , `` Jimenez told Telemundo .
`` I am in a place where from the first moment we made an incredible connection .
`` I am no stranger to all that , every day a new team comes out , every day a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not know how many millions .
`` It is good to know that they are talking about you , but what I have to do to make that happen is to continue doing my job here with Wolves . ''
Mexico boss Gerardo Martino , meanwhile , believes Jimenez must think very carefully about leaving Wolves .
`` Any modification or change , the first to define it is both he and his family , to analyse very well any possibility of change , '' Martino told the Mexican press .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times , at some point I had to go somewhere privileged and over the years I find myself declaring that it was my worst year .
`` It is not just going to the places that dazzle , it is being convinced .
Sometimes we have happiness in the place where we are . ''

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Raul Jimenez has promised not to let any transfer speculation distract him from a record-breaking season for Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The striker became Mexico's best-ever Premier League goalscorer in a single campaign by notching his 15th of the season in the midweek win against Bournemouth.
His tally stands at 24 in all competitions this term having also enjoyed a prolific run of form in the Europa League.
It is no surprise that a number of clubs across Europe are being linked with Jimenez ahead of the summer transfer window, with the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool reportedly interested.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The 29-year-old admits he has seen the rumours but remains fully focused on matters at Molineux.
"First of all I am very happy here with Wolves, " Jimenez told Telemundo. "I am in a place where from the first moment we made an incredible connection.
"I am no stranger to all that, every day a new team comes out, every day a new offer comes out, I do not know how many millions.
"It is good to know that they are talking about you, but what I have to do to make that happen is to continue doing my job here with Wolves."
Mexico boss Gerardo Martino, meanwhile, believes Jimenez must think very carefully about leaving Wolves.
"Any modification or change, the first to define it is both he and his family, to analyse very well any possibility of change," Martino told the Mexican press.
"I know that it is very tempting at times, at some point I had to go somewhere privileged and over the years I find myself declaring that it was my worst year.
"It is not just going to the places that dazzle, it is being convinced. Sometimes we have happiness in the place where we are."


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Latest coronavirus death toll as 18 more die in hospital

The number of hospital patients to die from coronavirus in England has risen by 18 , according to the latest figures .
A total of 28,653 people , who tested positive for Covid-19 , had died in English hospitals as of Sunday , June 28 .
Patients were aged between 43 and 95 years old .
One patient , aged 48 , had no known underlying health conditions , NHS England said .
Another six deaths from the 18 recorded in the daily death toll took place in the Midlands .
Their families have been informed .
The number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are as follows : The news comes after it was revealed a Midlands city could be the first to see the UK 's first local lockdown .
A wave of coronavirus infections in Leicester could see it locked down within days as the city reported 658 new cases in the fortnight to June 16 , the Sunday Times reported .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is said to be `` examining '' the legislation needed for a shutdown and a source told the paper Mr Hancock was considering `` all options '' to bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after food manufacturer Samworth Brothers confirmed a `` handful '' of staff at its Leicester-based sandwich factory had contracted the deadly bug , while five schools had also closed .

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The number of hospital patients to die from coronavirus in England has risen by 18, according to the latest figures.
A total of 28,653 people, who tested positive for Covid-19, had died in English hospitals as of Sunday, June 28.
Patients were aged between 43 and 95 years old. One patient, aged 48, had no known underlying health conditions, NHS England said.
Another six deaths from the 18 recorded in the daily death toll took place in the Midlands.
Their families have been informed.
The number of deaths of patients with Covid-19 by region are as follows:
East of England 0
London 1
Midlands 6
North East & Yorkshire 7
North West 1
South East 3
South West 0
TOTAL 18
The news comes after it was revealed a Midlands city could be the first to see the UK's first local lockdown.
A wave of coronavirus infections in Leicester could see it locked down within days as the city reported 658 new cases in the fortnight to June 16, the Sunday Times reported.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is said to be "examining" the legislation needed for a shutdown and a source told the paper Mr Hancock was considering "all options" to bring the flare-up under control.
It follows after food manufacturer Samworth Brothers confirmed a "handful" of staff at its Leicester-based sandwich factory had contracted the deadly bug, while five schools had also closed.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--SAGE experts warn UK is headed for deadly second coronavirus wave

Britain could be facing a second wave of coronavirus this winter .
Two of the government 's top scientific advisors warned today ( Sunday ) that a second wave could arrive later this year .
Sir Jeremy Farrar , a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies , has said a `` true second wave will come in the winter months , in October , November . ''
He warned the next three months are `` absolutely critical '' to prevent the `` national catastrophe '' that has killed more than 50,000 people , repeating itself .
Former Chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also a SAGE member , warned there is a `` significant risk '' of a spike in infections this winter .
He suggested cold and damp conditions might help the virus thrive , just when the NHS is under more pressure from other diseases .
Boris Johnson has said there could be local lockdowns if the virus spikes - with health officials already closely monitoring an outbreak in Leicester .
And he has insisted he will not hesitate to pull up the `` handbrake '' if people ignore the ongoing ban on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , the government has set up a 'Test and Trace ' programme to force all close contacts of positive cases into isolation for 14 days .
But an app to detect contacts who do n't know each other still is n't up and running , and even under the current system , a quarter of people who test positive are n't reached by contact tracers .
Sir Jeremy , director of the Wellcome Trust , said he is `` worried '' about a possible spike in coronavirus infections already .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he said : `` In truth , the restrictions started to to be lifted towards the end of May , the beginning of June , around that bank holiday .
`` I would predict , I would guess , that we will start to see a few increases in cases towards the end of June or the first week of July .
`` We 're on a knife edge , it 's very precarious the situation , particularly in England at the moment , and I would anticipate we would see an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks . ''
Sir Jeremy Farrar argued the next three months were `` absolutely critical '' in the fight against coronavirus .
He said : `` Come the winter , come the reopening of schools , which is absolutely critical , we can anticipate to see rebounds and second waves .
`` The question is do you start from a very low base , like in Scotland , a few dozens cases , or maybe a few hundred cases in England .
`` And then you 're in a good position if there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locally and you can prevent the national catastrophe that happened in March and April .
`` That 's the key , using June , July and August really cleverly , making sure we have everything in place and learning the lessons from February and March . ''

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Britain could be facing a second wave of coronavirus this winter.
Two of the government's top scientific advisors warned today (Sunday) that a second wave could arrive later this year.
Sir Jeremy Farrar, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, has said a "true second wave will come in the winter months, in October, November."
He warned the next three months are "absolutely critical" to prevent the "national catastrophe" that has killed more than 50,000 people, repeating itself.
Former Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Mark Walport, who is also a SAGE member, warned there is a "significant risk" of a spike in infections this winter.
(Image: PA)
He suggested cold and damp conditions might help the virus thrive, just when the NHS is under more pressure from other diseases.
Boris Johnson has said there could be local lockdowns if the virus spikes - with health officials already closely monitoring an outbreak in Leicester.
And he has insisted he will not hesitate to pull up the "handbrake" if people ignore the ongoing ban on gatherings of more than six people outside.
Meanwhile, the government has set up a 'Test and Trace' programme to force all close contacts of positive cases into isolation for 14 days.
But an app to detect contacts who don't know each other still isn't up and running, and even under the current system, a quarter of people who test positive aren't reached by contact tracers.
Sir Jeremy, director of the Wellcome Trust, said he is "worried" about a possible spike in coronavirus infections already.
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Speaking to the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, he said: "In truth, the restrictions started to to be lifted towards the end of May, the beginning of June, around that bank holiday.
"I would predict, I would guess, that we will start to see a few increases in cases towards the end of June or the first week of July.
"We're on a knife edge, it's very precarious the situation, particularly in England at the moment, and I would anticipate we would see an increase in new cases over the coming weeks."
Sir Jeremy Farrar argued the next three months were "absolutely critical" in the fight against coronavirus.
He said: "Come the winter, come the reopening of schools, which is absolutely critical, we can anticipate to see rebounds and second waves.
"The question is do you start from a very low base, like in Scotland, a few dozens cases, or maybe a few hundred cases in England.
"And then you're in a good position if there are local outbreaks that you can respond locally and you can prevent the national catastrophe that happened in March and April.
"That's the key, using June, July and August really cleverly, making sure we have everything in place and learning the lessons from February and March."


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Police appeal after 'serious assault as man kicked unconscious'

Police are appealing for information after a man was allegedly 'kicked unconscious following a row ' .
The 54-year-old victim @ @ @ @ @ man on Gospel Lane , Olton , Solihull , on June 20 , after an @ @ @ @ @ an image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the @ @ @ @ @ in a statement : “ We ’ re investigating the serious assault of a 54-year-old @ @ @ @ @ a man on Gospel Lane , Olton , # Solihull on Saturday 20 June .
@ @ @ @ @ victim had got into an altercation with the suspect when he was assaulted .
“ @ @ @ @ @ information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight @ @ @ @ @ ” Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote crime number @ @

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Police are appealing for information after a man was allegedly 'kicked unconscious following a row'.
The 54-year-old victim was reportedly assaulted by a man on Gospel Lane, Olton, Solihull, on June 20, after an altercation.
Police have released an image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.
Solihull Police said in a statement : “We’re investigating the serious assault of a 54-year-old who was kicked unconscious by a man on Gospel Lane, Olton, #Solihull on Saturday 20 June.
“It is believed the victim had got into an altercation with the suspect when he was assaulted.
“Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.”
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime number 20SH/143420U/20.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Primary school pupils and staff to self isolate following coronavirus case

Pupils and staff have been asked to self isolate after a coronavirus case at Olton Primary School .
Public Health Englan d confirmed there had been a positive diagnosis within the infant and primary site on Lyndon Road , Solihull .
Children and teachers within the affected pod are self-isolating for 14 days but the school remains open for all .
The development will remain under review for the remainder of the school term .
A letter on the school ’ s website , on Friday ( June 26 ) , which was signed off by headteacher Leon Chamberlain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Public Health England there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the junior and infant school site .
“ Pupils and staff from the affected pods will now be isolating for 14 days before returning to school .
“ We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England .
“ This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child .
“ Please be reassured that for most people , coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintained stringent cleaning and social distancing throughout this time .
“ The school remains open and providing your child remains well they can continue to attend school as normal .
“ We will keep this under review for the last few weeks of the summer term .
”

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Pupils and staff have been asked to self isolate after a coronavirus case at Olton Primary School.
Public Health Englan d confirmed there had been a positive diagnosis within the infant and primary site on Lyndon Road, Solihull.
Children and teachers within the affected pod are self-isolating for 14 days but the school remains open for all.
(Image: Google)
The development will remain under review for the remainder of the school term.
A letter on the school’s website, on Friday (June 26), which was signed off by headteacher Leon Chamberlain, said: “We have been advised by Public Health England there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the junior and infant school site.
“Pupils and staff from the affected pods will now be isolating for 14 days before returning to school.
“We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.
“This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child.
“Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness and Olton Primary has maintained stringent cleaning and social distancing throughout this time.
“The school remains open and providing your child remains well they can continue to attend school as normal.
“We will keep this under review for the last few weeks of the summer term.”


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Blues' big boost as favourite set to return against Huddersfield

Jeremie Bela is set to begin the match against Huddersfield Town on Wednesday night after recovering from illness .
That will be his first start in a four month period truncated by lockdown .
The French winger had a superb impact coming off the bench against Hull City at the weekend helping Birmingham City overturn a 2-0 deficit and playing a part in the equaliser which made it 3-3 .
The 27-year-old ended the match with two assists leaving fans wondering why he hadn ’ t been involved from the start .
That was because after returning to training following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conditioning work interrupted by sickness .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
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Google Play Store and App Store That meant he returned to full training in the build up to the West Brom game , where he played 20 minutes .
He upped that to 45 at St Andrew ’ s and will be on the pitch from the first whistle when the Terriers come to town .
Head coach Pep Clotet spoke about Bela ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also outlined his ‘ cautious ’ approach to his phased return .
“ We ’ ve been building Jeremie ’ s fitness up a bit slower than some of the other players because I wanted him to finish strong .
“ So , he played a little bit against West Brom and today for a bit longer and now he is a bit closer to full fitness .
I was a little bit cautious with him because I didn ’ t want him to get injured.
” Indeed that last point seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with so few experienced players on which to call .
Rushing Bela 's comeback and losing him to a repeat of the hamstring injury he sustained in February , would have placed a huge pressure on his playing resources .
Clotet and Bela will both be hoping he can carry Saturday ’ s form into the remaining seven games – and add to his seven assists and four goals in what has been a hugely impressive first half season in English football .

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Jeremie Bela is set to begin the match against Huddersfield Town on Wednesday night after recovering from illness.
That will be his first start in a four month period truncated by lockdown.
The French winger had a superb impact coming off the bench against Hull City at the weekend helping Birmingham City overturn a 2-0 deficit and playing a part in the equaliser which made it 3-3.
The 27-year-old ended the match with two assists leaving fans wondering why he hadn’t been involved from the start.
That was because after returning to training following lockdown the former Albacete man had his conditioning work interrupted by sickness.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
That meant he returned to full training in the build up to the West Brom game, where he played 20 minutes.
He upped that to 45 at St Andrew’s and will be on the pitch from the first whistle when the Terriers come to town.
Head coach Pep Clotet spoke about Bela’s impact after yesterday’s game – and also outlined his ‘cautious’ approach to his phased return.
“We’ve been building Jeremie’s fitness up a bit slower than some of the other players because I wanted him to finish strong.
“So, he played a little bit against West Brom and today for a bit longer and now he is a bit closer to full fitness. I was a little bit cautious with him because I didn’t want him to get injured.”
Indeed that last point seems key to Clotet’s thinking, with so few experienced players on which to call.
Rushing Bela's comeback and losing him to a repeat of the hamstring injury he sustained in February, would have placed a huge pressure on his playing resources.
Clotet and Bela will both be hoping he can carry Saturday’s form into the remaining seven games – and add to his seven assists and four goals in what has been a hugely impressive first half season in English football.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--'Started to swirl' - Our understanding of those Aston Villa & Dean Smith rumours

Another defeat , another Project Restart setback for the exiled Aston Villa fanbase to stew over from afar and , inevitably , growing speculation about Dean Smith 's future .
It 's just two points from a possible 24 now and , although those two points have arrived since the Premier League returned , 'Sleepwalking to relegation ' has become the in vogue Villa catchphrase .
Yesterday 's 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers left Villa stuck in the relegation zone with the claret and blue fanbase feeling down and feeling as though their club are , if not down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Two draws and two defeats were not the survival springboard anybody in B6 was hoping for .
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Google Play Store and App Store It 's no surprise that the rumours about Smith 's future have started to swirl .
With just six games to go we 're getting to the stage where a manager , even a popular , well-respected one with promotion-winning credit in the bank , could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage where 150 million quid is concerned .
It 's a strange one .
Will Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens think an eight-day break is an opportune moment to make a change and get someone in to provide a short , sharp , Premier League salvaging shock ?
Or instead will they think it 's ample time for Smith to coach , cajole and inspire a six-game rally of the kind that has n't seemed possible from a squad that look doomed ?
It looks to be the latter with the word on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between Smith and CEO Christian Purslow were erroneous .
As far as Villa are concerned it will be business as usual as Smith , John Terry and Richard O'Kelly prepare Villa 's players for next weekend 's match - gulp !
- away at newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool .
So after shuffling his personnel and tweaking his system what must Smith change for Villa to kickstart their own recovery rather than relying on relegation rivals to be even worse ?
Are the players just not of the required standard to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
From the remaining 18 points on offer will 27-point Villa get anywhere enough to take their recommissioned Premier League drama into a second series ?
The answers are unknown but the reality is that Aston Villa must start asking more questions of Liverpool , Manchester United , Crystal Palace , Everton , Arsenal and West Ham , than they did of Sheffield United , Chelsea , Newcastle United and Wolves .
The irony is that as confidence in Smith to save Villa 's top flight status continues to wane , and as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions , the current incumbent fits the type of manager the club would want to turn to to get them promoted back up out of the Championship .
Let 's hope it does n't come to that .

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Another defeat, another Project Restart setback for the exiled Aston Villa fanbase to stew over from afar and, inevitably, growing speculation about Dean Smith's future.
It's just two points from a possible 24 now and, although those two points have arrived since the Premier League returned, 'Sleepwalking to relegation' has become the in vogue Villa catchphrase.
Yesterday's 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers left Villa stuck in the relegation zone with the claret and blue fanbase feeling down and feeling as though their club are, if not down, then certainly settled in the departure lounge.
Two draws and two defeats were not the survival springboard anybody in B6 was hoping for.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
It's no surprise that the rumours about Smith 's future have started to swirl. With just six games to go we're getting to the stage where a manager, even a popular, well-respected one with promotion-winning credit in the bank, could be viewed by worried owners as minor collateral damage where 150 million quid is concerned.
It's a strange one. Will Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens think an eight-day break is an opportune moment to make a change and get someone in to provide a short, sharp, Premier League salvaging shock?
Or instead will they think it's ample time for Smith to coach, cajole and inspire a six-game rally of the kind that hasn't seemed possible from a squad that look doomed?
It looks to be the latter with the word on the street that reports of crunch talks between Smith and CEO Christian Purslow were erroneous.
As far as Villa are concerned it will be business as usual as Smith, John Terry and Richard O'Kelly prepare Villa's players for next weekend's match - gulp! - away at newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool.
So after shuffling his personnel and tweaking his system what must Smith change for Villa to kickstart their own recovery rather than relying on relegation rivals to be even worse?
Are the players just not of the required standard to stay up no matter who's in charge?
From the remaining 18 points on offer will 27-point Villa get anywhere enough to take their recommissioned Premier League drama into a second series?
The answers are unknown but the reality is that Aston Villa must start asking more questions of Liverpool, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Everton, Arsenal and West Ham, than they did of Sheffield United, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Wolves.
The irony is that as confidence in Smith to save Villa's top flight status continues to wane, and as lists of potential firefighters dominate social media discussions, the current incumbent fits the type of manager the club would want to turn to to get them promoted back up out of the Championship.
Let's hope it doesn't come to that.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Mum attacked in front of her kids in violent park carjacking

A busy city park has issued an urgent warning after a mum was attacked in front of her children by violent carjackers in broad daylight .
The victim was returning to the car park after a family day out at Highbury Park , Kings Heath with five children when she was set upon on , on Monday ( June 22 ) .
As she arrived back at the vehicle at around 4.20pm , she was approached by two men who threw her to the ground before holding her down by her throat .
They then snatched her keys before making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum bruised and battered in the parking area just off Shutlock Lane .
Horrifyingly , the attack took place as her two kids and her sister 's three children watched on in terror - and even as the park was filled with other members of the public .
A 'distressing ' email shared to CDC Dance Ltd 's Facebook page from the mum read : `` I just wanted to let you know what happened yesterday as I know most of the families at the dance school live in the Moseley and Kings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up from Moor Green School yesterday , I took my two along with my sister 's 3 kids to Highbury Park .
They played for about an hour , then we walked back towards the car which was parked in the car park at Highbury .
`` Unfortunately , as we approached the car park , I was attacked by two men who threw me to the ground and held me down by my throat .
`` They took my car keys and stole our car .
This happened in broad daylight at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and worst of all in front of the 5 children .
`` I 'm a bit bruised and battered today but otherwise fine , and the children are physically fine but were very frightened . ''
She added that though she did n't wish to alarm park goers , she wanted to urge others to be vigilant and 'look out for themselves and others ' .
It was branded a 'serious incident ' by the park itself as they too warned park users to be extra careful .
Residents were urged to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bid to protect others from similar crime .
The alert , shared to the Highbury Park Facebook page on Sunday ( June 28 ) read : `` Dear Friends , we wanted to alert you that in the last few days a serious incident took place in the car park at Highbury Park .
`` Someone returning to their car was assaulted in front of her children , her keys were taken and her car stolen .
`` This took place in the afternoon when there were other park users around .
Whilst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you needed to know this so you can be extra vigilant when using Highbury and other local parks . ''
The post added that the incident was reported to West Midlands Police as they asked anyone who witnesses 'illegal activity ' at the park to call the police .
West Midlands Police confirmed the carjacking had been reported to them .

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A busy city park has issued an urgent warning after a mum was attacked in front of her children by violent carjackers in broad daylight.
The victim was returning to the car park after a family day out at Highbury Park, Kings Heath with five children when she was set upon on, on Monday (June 22).
As she arrived back at the vehicle at around 4.20pm, she was approached by two men who threw her to the ground before holding her down by her throat.
They then snatched her keys before making off in her car, leaving the mum bruised and battered in the parking area just off Shutlock Lane.
Horrifyingly, the attack took place as her two kids and her sister's three children watched on in terror - and even as the park was filled with other members of the public.
A 'distressing' email shared to CDC Dance Ltd's Facebook page from the mum read: "I just wanted to let you know what happened yesterday as I know most of the families at the dance school live in the Moseley and Kings Heath area.
"After picking **** up from Moor Green School yesterday, I took my two along with my sister's 3 kids to Highbury Park. They played for about an hour, then we walked back towards the car which was parked in the car park at Highbury.
"Unfortunately, as we approached the car park, I was attacked by two men who threw me to the ground and held me down by my throat.
"They took my car keys and stole our car. This happened in broad daylight at around 4.20pm with lots of people around, and worst of all in front of the 5 children.
"I'm a bit bruised and battered today but otherwise fine, and the children are physically fine but were very frightened."
She added that though she didn't wish to alarm park goers, she wanted to urge others to be vigilant and 'look out for themselves and others'.
It was branded a 'serious incident' by the park itself as they too warned park users to be extra careful.
Contact Us Have you been affected by this story? Do you have an issue you want us to investigate or something you want to share from your area? Let me know by emailing stephanie.balloo@reachplc.com, tweeting me @JournoBalloo or calling 07747078285. All contact will be treated with confidentiality. Read more by Stephanie Balloo here.
Residents were urged to 'spread the word' in a desperate bid to protect others from similar crime.
The alert, shared to the Highbury Park Facebook page on Sunday (June 28) read: "Dear Friends, we wanted to alert you that in the last few days a serious incident took place in the car park at Highbury Park.
"Someone returning to their car was assaulted in front of her children, her keys were taken and her car stolen.
"This took place in the afternoon when there were other park users around. Whilst not wanting to be alarmist we felt you needed to know this so you can be extra vigilant when using Highbury and other local parks."
The post added that the incident was reported to West Midlands Police as they asked anyone who witnesses 'illegal activity' at the park to call the police.
West Midlands Police confirmed the carjacking had been reported to them.


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Police share image of VW Polo and want people to report it if 'driven poorly'

This is the modified Volkswagen Polo police are actively encouraging drivers to report - if 'driven poorly ' .
West Midlands Police told anyone who sees the motor being driven 'poorly ' to contact them .
It came after the motor was stopped by cops on Heartlands Parkway - the Nechells strip - on Saturday night , June 27 .
Officers said the car had already been served with a section 59 warning before the stop .
This means the driver has been reported for using their vehicle in a manner which causes `` alarm , distress or annoyance '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the driver 's insurance company for its many modifications , the force said .
Police said they had stepped up patrols in the area as they vowed to crackdown on street racing and anti-social behaviour on the streets .
Sharing an appeal for information alongside a photo of the car , West Midlands Police traffic cops wrote : `` This Polo was stopped on Heartlands Parkway , Birmingham .
It already has a section 59 warning .
`` The modifications will now be reported to their insurance company .
`` If anyone sees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us know @ wmp We do love an Instagram tag # ophercules '' We will not tolerate anti social behaviour in vehicles , or street racing in the West Midlands .
Our patrols have increased # stayalert . ''

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This is the modified Volkswagen Polo police are actively encouraging drivers to report - if 'driven poorly'.
West Midlands Police told anyone who sees the motor being driven 'poorly' to contact them.
It came after the motor was stopped by cops on Heartlands Parkway - the Nechells strip - on Saturday night, June 27.
Officers said the car had already been served with a section 59 warning before the stop.
This means the driver has been reported for using their vehicle in a manner which causes "alarm, distress or annoyance".
The car was also reported to the driver's insurance company for its many modifications, the force said.
Police said they had stepped up patrols in the area as they vowed to crackdown on street racing and anti-social behaviour on the streets.
Sharing an appeal for information alongside a photo of the car, West Midlands Police traffic cops wrote: "This Polo was stopped on Heartlands Parkway, Birmingham. It already has a section 59 warning.
"The modifications will now be reported to their insurance company.
"If anyone sees it being driven poorly then please let us know @wmp We do love an Instagram tag #ophercules
"We will not tolerate anti social behaviour in vehicles, or street racing in the West Midlands. Our patrols have increased #stayalert."


birminghammail--2020-06-28--Motorbike rider falls off after driving on 'pavement to escape' police'

A man has been arrested after he fell off a 'stolen ' motorbike during a police chase .
Officers began pursuing the bike after they spotted it driving at high speeds , in Pensnett , on Saturday ( June 27 ) .
In a bid to shake off the officers , West Midlands Police said the rider drove onto the pavement - but fell off the bike .
However , he was later detained after a 'foot chase ' .
The force recovered the bike - which was on false plates and had been snatched during a burglary , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26 ) .
The male remains in custody as the investigation continues and the bike is now back with its owner .
In a message on West Midlands Police 's online alert system WM now , PC Jamie Follows said : `` Whilst on patrol in Pensnett , officers from C unit response , based at Brierley Hill , saw the pictured motor bike being driven at high speed .
`` The rider drove onto a pavement in an attempt to escape and fell off .
`` Following a foot chase we detained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was on false plates , had been stolen during a burglary from a house in Kingswinford yesterday .
`` The male remains in custody as we continue to investigate and the motor bike has been recovered to be returned to the owner . ''

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A man has been arrested after he fell off a 'stolen' motorbike during a police chase.
Officers began pursuing the bike after they spotted it driving at high speeds, in Pensnett, on Saturday (June 27).
In a bid to shake off the officers, West Midlands Police said the rider drove onto the pavement - but fell off the bike.
However, he was later detained after a 'foot chase'. The force recovered the bike - which was on false plates and had been snatched during a burglary, in Kingswinford, the day before (June 26).
The male remains in custody as the investigation continues and the bike is now back with its owner.
In a message on West Midlands Police's online alert system WM now, PC Jamie Follows said: "Whilst on patrol in Pensnett, officers from C unit response, based at Brierley Hill, saw the pictured motor bike being driven at high speed.
"The rider drove onto a pavement in an attempt to escape and fell off.
"Following a foot chase we detained the rider. The motor bike, which was on false plates, had been stolen during a burglary from a house in Kingswinford yesterday.
"The male remains in custody as we continue to investigate and the motor bike has been recovered to be returned to the owner."


birminghammail--2020-06-29--Gary Gardner opens up on the 'harsh' criticism - from his brother

Gary Gardner believes the 25-yard laser he put in the corner of Hull City ’ s net was one of the best goals of his career .
The Birmingham City midfielder came to life in the second half , inspiring Blues ’ comeback from 2-0 down and heading a late equaliser in a 3-3 draw .
The brace took his season tally to four and were the result of being given the freedom to get into goal scoring positions with greater regularity .
“ I ’ m thankful I can get a bit more forward now .
Pep and Craig @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit more , get in and around the box and have a shot , ” Gardner said .
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Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Blues news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store “ Because I ’ m big , I can also get in there on the end of crosses .
The first goal was up there with my best strikes and hopefully I can get many more .
“ I feel like I have the energy to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be in a team and help the team in that way , I ’ m a happy lad .
“ Now we ’ ve had Jukey and Scotty firing in the goals , if I can add some , and Dan ( Crowley ) , maybe Bela , and Jude , then that will be brilliant.
” His reference to his brother Craig is telling .
Gardner Snr is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season and turn this season ’ s coaching role into a permanent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goals from midfield over two spells at Blues , is playing a front-line role with the squad .
“ Craig has been a massive help to me .
He knows me inside out .
He knows what I ’ m about , He knows I have that quality to strike that ball from distance .
“ I have been under his wing , not just at Blues but throughout my career , he has been brilliant for me and I ’ m just so lucky and grateful I can come in everyday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of experience in the game .
“ He had a great career , played in the top flight for many years , scored a lot of good goals .
`` I watched him here score a lot of good goals .
Like I say , he knows me inside out .
“ He has pulled me in the office a few times .
He ’ s been harsh a few times but sometimes you need that - just to get forward more , get in the box when I can , add @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve shown I ’ m good defensively and to be a box to box player and he said to take the shackles off a bit and go and enjoy yourself and express yourself a bit more .
“ He has helped me so much since I ’ ve been here and I just want to keep learning .
“ I ’ m 27 but I ’ m still learning every day off him and I ’ m willing to learn , that ’ s the most important thing so I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as high as we can .
“ I feel like I am coming to the peak of my career , most definitely .
I ’ m here at the club I love and support and am just ready to push on now .
“ I ’ ve always been ready to push on but I feel like I ’ ve found my home and I ’ m just raring to go .
“ I want to get in the box and score goals and I just want the best for this club and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until we get to where we want to be , the Premier League .
”

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Gary Gardner believes the 25-yard laser he put in the corner of Hull City’s net was one of the best goals of his career.
The Birmingham City midfielder came to life in the second half, inspiring Blues’ comeback from 2-0 down and heading a late equaliser in a 3-3 draw.
The brace took his season tally to four and were the result of being given the freedom to get into goal scoring positions with greater regularity.
“I’m thankful I can get a bit more forward now. Pep and Craig have given me licence to push on a bit more, get in and around the box and have a shot,” Gardner said.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
“Because I’m big, I can also get in there on the end of crosses. The first goal was up there with my best strikes and hopefully I can get many more.
“I feel like I have the energy to get forward and back so if I can be in a team and help the team in that way, I’m a happy lad.
“Now we’ve had Jukey and Scotty firing in the goals, if I can add some, and Dan (Crowley), maybe Bela, and Jude, then that will be brilliant.”
His reference to his brother Craig is telling. Gardner Snr is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season and turn this season’s coaching role into a permanent position.
Craig, who scored 16 goals from midfield over two spells at Blues, is playing a front-line role with the squad.
“Craig has been a massive help to me. He knows me inside out. He knows what I’m about, He knows I have that quality to strike that ball from distance.
“I have been under his wing, not just at Blues but throughout my career, he has been brilliant for me and I’m just so lucky and grateful I can come in everyday and learn off my brother who has a lot of experience in the game.
“He had a great career, played in the top flight for many years, scored a lot of good goals.
"I watched him here score a lot of good goals. Like I say, he knows me inside out.
“He has pulled me in the office a few times. He’s been harsh a few times but sometimes you need that - just to get forward more, get in the box when I can, add more attacking to my game.
(Image: Roy Smiljanic/BCFC)
“I’ve shown I’m good defensively and to be a box to box player and he said to take the shackles off a bit and go and enjoy yourself and express yourself a bit more.
“He has helped me so much since I’ve been here and I just want to keep learning.
“I’m 27 but I’m still learning every day off him and I’m willing to learn, that’s the most important thing so I want to keep going and get this club as high as we can.
“I feel like I am coming to the peak of my career, most definitely. I’m here at the club I love and support and am just ready to push on now.
“I’ve always been ready to push on but I feel like I’ve found my home and I’m just raring to go.
“I want to get in the box and score goals and I just want the best for this club and I’ll keep working hard everyday until we get to where we want to be, the Premier League.”