birminghammail--2020-05-08--The Queen's VE Day speech in FULL to mark 75th anniversary

The Queen has addressed the nation tonight to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day .
Here is her speech in full , which followed audio of Big Ben chimes and an announcer saying : `` This is London .
His Majesty King George VI '' .
We then hear the voice of King George VI saying : `` Let us remember the men of all the services and the women in all of the services who have laid down their lives .
`` We have come to the end of our tribulation and they are not with us at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I speak to you today at the same hour as my father did , exactly 75 years ago .
`` His message then was a salute to the men and women at home and abroad who had sacrificed so much in pursuit of what he rightly called a 'great deliverance ' .
`` The war had been a total war ; it had affected everyone , and no one was immune from its impact .
`` Whether it be the men and women called up to serve ; families separated from each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up new roles and skills to support the war effort , all had a part to play .
`` At the start , the outlook seemed bleak , the end distant , the outcome uncertain .
`` But we kept faith that the cause was right - and this belief , as my father noted in his broadcast , carried us through .
`` Never give up , never despair - that was the message of VE Day .
`` I vividly remember the jubilant scenes my sister and I witnessed with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Buckingham Palace .
`` The sense of joy in the crowds who gathered outside and across the country was profound , though while we celebrated the victory in Europe , we knew there would be further sacrifice .
`` It was not until August that fighting in the Far East ceased and the war finally ended .
`` Many people laid down their lives in that terrible conflict .
`` They fought so we could live in peace , at home and abroad .
`` They died so we could live as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nations .
`` They risked all so our families and neighbourhoods could be safe .
`` We should and will remember them .
As I now reflect on my father 's words and the joyous celebrations , which some of us experienced first-hand , I am thankful for the strength and courage that the United Kingdom , the Commonwealth and all our allies displayed .
`` The wartime generation knew that the best way to honour those who did not come back from the war , was to ensure that it did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their sacrifice is that countries who were once sworn enemies are now friends , working side by side for the peace , health and prosperity of us all .
`` Today it may seem hard that we can not mark this special anniversary as we would wish .
`` Instead we remember from our homes and our doorsteps .
`` But our streets are not empty ; they are filled with the love and the care that we have for each other .
`` And when I look at our country today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do to protect and support one another , I say with pride that we are still a nation those brave soldiers , sailors and airmen would recognise and admire .
`` I send my warmest good wishes to you all . ''

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The Queen has addressed the nation tonight to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
Here is her speech in full, which followed audio of Big Ben chimes and an announcer saying: "This is London. His Majesty King George VI".
We then hear the voice of King George VI saying: "Let us remember the men of all the services and the women in all of the services who have laid down their lives.
"We have come to the end of our tribulation and they are not with us at the moment of our rejoicing."
(Image: PA)
The Queen's address then begins:
"I speak to you today at the same hour as my father did, exactly 75 years ago.
"His message then was a salute to the men and women at home and abroad who had sacrificed so much in pursuit of what he rightly called a 'great deliverance'.
"The war had been a total war; it had affected everyone, and no one was immune from its impact.
(Image: PA)
"Whether it be the men and women called up to serve; families separated from each other; or people asked to take up new roles and skills to support the war effort, all had a part to play.
"At the start, the outlook seemed bleak, the end distant, the outcome uncertain.
"But we kept faith that the cause was right - and this belief, as my father noted in his broadcast, carried us through.
"Never give up, never despair - that was the message of VE Day.
(Image: PA)
"I vividly remember the jubilant scenes my sister and I witnessed with our parents and Winston Churchill from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
"The sense of joy in the crowds who gathered outside and across the country was profound, though while we celebrated the victory in Europe, we knew there would be further sacrifice.
"It was not until August that fighting in the Far East ceased and the war finally ended.
"Many people laid down their lives in that terrible conflict.
"They fought so we could live in peace, at home and abroad.
"They died so we could live as free people in a world of free nations.
"They risked all so our families and neighbourhoods could be safe.
"We should and will remember them.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
As I now reflect on my father's words and the joyous celebrations, which some of us experienced first-hand, I am thankful for the strength and courage that the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and all our allies displayed.
"The wartime generation knew that the best way to honour those who did not come back from the war, was to ensure that it didn't happen again.
"The greatest tribute to their sacrifice is that countries who were once sworn enemies are now friends, working side by side for the peace, health and prosperity of us all.
"Today it may seem hard that we cannot mark this special anniversary as we would wish.
"Instead we remember from our homes and our doorsteps.
"But our streets are not empty; they are filled with the love and the care that we have for each other.
"And when I look at our country today, and see what we are willing to do to protect and support one another, I say with pride that we are still a nation those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen would recognise and admire.
"I send my warmest good wishes to you all."


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Queen praises empty streets 'filled with love and care' in VE Day speech

The Queen has praised the nation 's response to the coronavirus outbreak , which has filled empty streets with `` love and care '' , in a poignant message to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day .
Remembering Britain 's Second World War sacrifices and the `` joyous celebrations '' that followed the end of fighting in Europe , the head of state paid tribute to the positive qualities of today 's generation .
The tireless efforts of NHS staff , care and key workers , and communities helping the vulnerable , reflected a nation `` those brave soldiers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admire , '' she said .
And she highlighted the message of VE ( Victory in Europe ) Day that resonates with the country 's plight today - `` Never give up , never despair '' .
Her televised address came at the end of national celebrations , marking 75 years to the day Britain and its Allies formally accepted Nazi Germany 's unconditional surrender , following almost six years of brutal warfare .
In Birmingham many streets held social distancing parties by having tea out on their front drives and lawns .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking from Windsor Castle , the Queen said : `` The wartime generation knew that the best way to honour those who did not come back from the war , was to ensure that it did n't happen again .
`` The greatest tribute to their sacrifice is that countries who were once sworn enemies are now friends , working side by side for the peace , health and prosperity of us all .
`` Today it may seem hard that we can not mark this special anniversary as we would wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and our doorsteps .
`` But our streets are not empty ; they are filled with the love and the care that we have for each other .
`` And when I look at our country today , and see what we are willing to do to protect and support one another , I say with pride that we are still a nation those brave soldiers , sailors and airmen would recognise and admire . ''
After the 9pm broadcast , the nation was invited to take part in sing-a-long of Dame Vera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is the second time the Queen has made a televised address during the pandemic , this following her speech on April 5 , when she delivered a message of hope , saying if we remained resolute in the face of the outbreak `` we will overcome it '' .
The Queen 's father King George VI was an important part of her speech which was broadcast at 9pm , the exact time of his radio address to the nation on May 8 1945 .
A picture of the King was next to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke , and her address began with black and white footage of her father 's wartime speech .
George VI said : `` Let us remember the men of all the services and the women in all of the services who have laid down their lives .
We have come to the end of our tribulation and they are not with us at the moment of our rejoicing . ''
The Queen , then Princess Elizabeth , was a schoolgirl during the war but as she grew older during that time became a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking about the beginning of the conflict she said : `` At the start , the outlook seemed bleak , the end distant , the outcome uncertain .
But we kept faith that the cause was right - and this belief , as my father noted in his broadcast , carried us through .
`` Never give up , never despair - that was the message of VE Day .
`` I vividly remember the jubilant scenes my sister and I witnessed with our parents and Winston Churchill from the balcony of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joy in the crowds who gathered outside and across the country was profound , though while we celebrated the victory in Europe , we knew there would be further sacrifice . ''
During the Queen 's address black and white footage was shown of the Buckingham Palace balcony moment when the Queen , her family and Sir Winston acknowledged the crowds .
There were scenes of revellers dancing through the streets and street parties being staged .
Even the Queen ventured out with a group of friends , including her sister Princess Margaret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the events forming the basis of the film A Royal Night Out .
The monarch went on to say in her broadcast , screened at the end of VE Day 75 , a programme of music and memories presented by Sophie Raworth : `` It was not until August that fighting in the Far East ceased and the war finally ended . ''
`` Many people laid down their lives in that terrible conflict .
They fought so we could live in peace , at home and abroad .
They died so we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world of free nations . ''
The Queen was surrounded by historic personal mementos from the war years as she addressed the nation on the 75th anniversary of VE Day .
Her aquamarine and diamond clip brooches were an 18th birthday present from her father King George VI in April 1944 - just over a year before the end of the conflict in Europe .
The two art deco-style pieces , which the Queen wore separately in a diagonal setting , were made by Boucheron from baguette , oval and round diamonds and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the precious jewellery during her Diamond Jubilee televised speech in 2012 - her only other televised address marking an anniversary .
On the desk in front of the Queen was her Auxiliary Territorial Service ( ATS ) khaki-coloured peaked cap - part of her uniform when she undertook National Service in February 1945 .
An 18-year-old Princess Elizabeth joined the ATS and registered as No .
230873 Second Subaltern Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor and took a driving and vehicle maintenance course at Aldershot , qualifying as a driver .
It was this cap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shield her face as she and her younger sister Princess Margaret and friends joined thousands of revellers unnoticed outside Buckingham Palace on VE Day .
Years later , the Queen described how she had been terrified of being recognised on the streets `` so I pulled my uniform cap well down over my eyes '' .
But she added she was reprimanded by a fellow officer .
`` A Grenadier officer amongst our party of about 16 people said he refused to be seen in the company of another officer improperly dressed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on normally , '' she said during an archive radio interview in 1985 shared by Buckingham Palace on Friday .

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The Queen has praised the nation's response to the coronavirus outbreak, which has filled empty streets with "love and care", in a poignant message to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
Remembering Britain's Second World War sacrifices and the "joyous celebrations" that followed the end of fighting in Europe, the head of state paid tribute to the positive qualities of today's generation.
The tireless efforts of NHS staff, care and key workers, and communities helping the vulnerable, reflected a nation "those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen would recognise and admire," she said.
And she highlighted the message of VE (Victory in Europe) Day that resonates with the country's plight today - "Never give up, never despair".
Her televised address came at the end of national celebrations, marking 75 years to the day Britain and its Allies formally accepted Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender, following almost six years of brutal warfare.
In Birmingham many streets held social distancing parties by having tea out on their front drives and lawns.
Our full coverage can be found here.
Speaking from Windsor Castle, the Queen said: "The wartime generation knew that the best way to honour those who did not come back from the war, was to ensure that it didn't happen again.
"The greatest tribute to their sacrifice is that countries who were once sworn enemies are now friends, working side by side for the peace, health and prosperity of us all.
(Image: PA)
"Today it may seem hard that we cannot mark this special anniversary as we would wish. Instead we remember from our homes and our doorsteps.
"But our streets are not empty; they are filled with the love and the care that we have for each other.
"And when I look at our country today, and see what we are willing to do to protect and support one another, I say with pride that we are still a nation those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen would recognise and admire."
After the 9pm broadcast, the nation was invited to take part in sing-a-long of Dame Vera Lynn's We'll Meet Again.
(Image: PA)
It is the second time the Queen has made a televised address during the pandemic, this following her speech on April 5, when she delivered a message of hope, saying if we remained resolute in the face of the outbreak "we will overcome it".
The Queen's father King George VI was an important part of her speech which was broadcast at 9pm, the exact time of his radio address to the nation on May 8 1945.
A picture of the King was next to the Queen on her desk as she spoke, and her address began with black and white footage of her father's wartime speech.
George VI said: "Let us remember the men of all the services and the women in all of the services who have laid down their lives. We have come to the end of our tribulation and they are not with us at the moment of our rejoicing."
The Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, was a schoolgirl during the war but as she grew older during that time became a junior commander with the Auxiliary Territorial Service.
(Image: PA)
Speaking about the beginning of the conflict she said: "At the start, the outlook seemed bleak, the end distant, the outcome uncertain. But we kept faith that the cause was right - and this belief, as my father noted in his broadcast, carried us through.
"Never give up, never despair - that was the message of VE Day.
"I vividly remember the jubilant scenes my sister and I witnessed with our parents and Winston Churchill from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
"The sense of joy in the crowds who gathered outside and across the country was profound, though while we celebrated the victory in Europe, we knew there would be further sacrifice."
(Image: PA)
During the Queen's address black and white footage was shown of the Buckingham Palace balcony moment when the Queen, her family and Sir Winston acknowledged the crowds.
There were scenes of revellers dancing through the streets and street parties being staged.
Even the Queen ventured out with a group of friends, including her sister Princess Margaret, to experience the excitement, with the events forming the basis of the film A Royal Night Out.
The monarch went on to say in her broadcast, screened at the end of VE Day 75, a programme of music and memories presented by Sophie Raworth: "It was not until August that fighting in the Far East ceased and the war finally ended."
"Many people laid down their lives in that terrible conflict. They fought so we could live in peace, at home and abroad. They died so we could live as free people in a world of free nations."
Mementos surrounding the Queen
The Queen was surrounded by historic personal mementos from the war years as she addressed the nation on the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
Her aquamarine and diamond clip brooches were an 18th birthday present from her father King George VI in April 1944 - just over a year before the end of the conflict in Europe.
The two art deco-style pieces, which the Queen wore separately in a diagonal setting, were made by Boucheron from baguette, oval and round diamonds and aquamarines.
She also chose to wear the precious jewellery during her Diamond Jubilee televised speech in 2012 - her only other televised address marking an anniversary.
On the desk in front of the Queen was her Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) khaki-coloured peaked cap - part of her uniform when she undertook National Service in February 1945.
An 18-year-old Princess Elizabeth joined the ATS and registered as No. 230873 Second Subaltern Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor and took a driving and vehicle maintenance course at Aldershot, qualifying as a driver.
(Image: PA)
It was this cap that the teenage princess pulled down to shield her face as she and her younger sister Princess Margaret and friends joined thousands of revellers unnoticed outside Buckingham Palace on VE Day.
Years later, the Queen described how she had been terrified of being recognised on the streets "so I pulled my uniform cap well down over my eyes".
(Image: PA)
But she added she was reprimanded by a fellow officer.
"A Grenadier officer amongst our party of about 16 people said he refused to be seen in the company of another officer improperly dressed, so I had to put my cap on normally," she said during an archive radio interview in 1985 shared by Buckingham Palace on Friday.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Salomon Rondon came 'very close' to shock Man United transfer

Former West Bromwich Albion striker Salomon Rondon came 'very close ' to joining Manchester United in January .
United were desperate to sign a striker during the window and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer eventually managed to snare Odion Ighalo on loan from Shanghai Shenhua .
Rondon was on United 's wish-list but remained with Dalian Yifang after crunch talks with manager Rafa Benitez .
Rondon said : “ The chance was very close to come back to England .
`` The owner of my club said that they paid a lot for me , he wanted me to stay and didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : ‘ It ’ s not in our minds to let you go.
’ “ I talked to Rafa and then they chose another player , it finished and I didn ’ t have any chance to go .
`` I stayed and I take that experience with me in my life , in my career and I have to wait because I ’ ve signed for two years and if I stay for two years it doesn ’ t matter for me .
“ My agents didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d call me if they had some news but the opportunity to go was really , really close and the decisions are with the owners .
“ It was a good opportunity for me to come back to Europe but I stayed in China and then we will see what happens in the future .
“ I enjoyed England a lot , I followed the Premier League a lot , my children now speak better English than me !
`` It ’ s a very good thing for me and it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family .
”

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Former West Bromwich Albion striker Salomon Rondon came 'very close' to joining Manchester United in January.
United were desperate to sign a striker during the window and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer eventually managed to snare Odion Ighalo on loan from Shanghai Shenhua.
Rondon was on United's wish-list but remained with Dalian Yifang after crunch talks with manager Rafa Benitez.
Rondon said: “The chance was very close to come back to England.
"The owner of my club said that they paid a lot for me, he wanted me to stay and didn’t want to let me go. He said: ‘It’s not in our minds to let you go.’
“I talked to Rafa and then they chose another player, it finished and I didn’t have any chance to go.
"I stayed and I take that experience with me in my life, in my career and I have to wait because I’ve signed for two years and if I stay for two years it doesn’t matter for me.
“My agents didn’t say too much. They said they’d call me if they had some news but the opportunity to go was really, really close and the decisions are with the owners.
“It was a good opportunity for me to come back to Europe but I stayed in China and then we will see what happens in the future.
“I enjoyed England a lot, I followed the Premier League a lot, my children now speak better English than me!
"It’s a very good thing for me and it was a big opportunity for me and my family.”


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Shock as glass falls from 400ft Radisson Blu hotel in city centre

The manager of a Birmingham city centre Londis has described the shocking moment that glass from a pane half way up the 400ft Radisson Blu hotel shattered outside his shop .
Mukesh Kumar said it was lucky that nobody was hurt by the glass .
It shattered on the concrete veranda above his shop and then went everywhere over the pavement and road .
Suffolk Street Queensway is usually rammed with traffic heading towards Smallbrook Queensway at 5.10pm on a Friday afternoon .
And the pavement would also be busy with theatre goers on their way to the Alexandra or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Station or the bars of Southside .
But the area was very quiet again today as the country remained on Covid-19 lockdown and even more people were off work because of the VE Day 75 Bank Holiday .
A picture sent to BirminghamLive from a resident in the nearby Westside Apartments shows the shattered pain of glass was roughly half way up the side of the building which faces towards the Alexandra Theatre .
Southside BID patrol officers were understood to have been at a separate incident nearby this afternoon , said to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Pagoda Island ' at Holloway Head .
Police and paramedics were pictured at that scene but the two incidents are not understood to be related .
The Radisson Blu website says it is currently closed until at least May 18 because of Covid-19 .
Nobody could be contacted today for comment .
Mukesh has described the moment he heard the glass smashing above his shop .
`` There was a noise and then a big bang - it seemed like a bigger amount was coming down after the first , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the floor , everywhere .
`` It is so lucky that there was nobody abound - the lockdown has decimated our trade .
`` The glass hit the veranda above the entrance and then ended up in the road .
`` There is glass everywhere now . ''
Earlier this week , plans were announced for a new 49-storey tower to be called Octagon which could be finished at Paradise by 2024 is permission is approved .
At 510ft , the 346-home Octagon would be 110ft taller than the Radisson Blu and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Worried about any future incidents and how long it might take to check and secure the entire Beetham Tower , Mukesh said : `` Safety needs to be the top priority with these tall buildings . ''
What is the Beetham Tower ?
The 39-storey building was completed in 2006 and is said to be the tallest occupied building in the city , currently second only in height to the BT Tower ( 499ft ) .
The lower 19 floors are part of the Radisson Blu hotel which has 211 rooms , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site from the air via Google Maps , the shattered pane would appear to be directly over the top deck of the NCP New Street Station Car Park which sits in between the hotel and the Alexandra Theatre .

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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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The manager of a Birmingham city centre Londis has described the shocking moment that glass from a pane half way up the 400ft Radisson Blu hotel shattered outside his shop.
Mukesh Kumar said it was lucky that nobody was hurt by the glass.
It shattered on the concrete veranda above his shop and then went everywhere over the pavement and road.
Suffolk Street Queensway is usually rammed with traffic heading towards Smallbrook Queensway at 5.10pm on a Friday afternoon.
And the pavement would also be busy with theatre goers on their way to the Alexandra or with office workers heading towards New Street Station or the bars of Southside.
But the area was very quiet again today as the country remained on Covid-19 lockdown and even more people were off work because of the VE Day 75 Bank Holiday.
(Image: Google aps)
A picture sent to BirminghamLive from a resident in the nearby Westside Apartments shows the shattered pain of glass was roughly half way up the side of the building which faces towards the Alexandra Theatre.
At 6.10pm, West Midlands Police confirmed a window had shattered.
Southside BID patrol officers were understood to have been at a separate incident nearby this afternoon, said to have 'involved a person in the middle of Pagoda Island' at Holloway Head.
Police and paramedics were pictured at that scene but the two incidents are not understood to be related.
The Radisson Blu website says it is currently closed until at least May 18 because of Covid-19.
Nobody could be contacted today for comment.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
Shopkeeper's shock
Mukesh has described the moment he heard the glass smashing above his shop.
"There was a noise and then a big bang - it seemed like a bigger amount was coming down after the first," he says.
"Then there was glass on the floor, everywhere.
"It is so lucky that there was nobody abound - the lockdown has decimated our trade.
"The glass hit the veranda above the entrance and then ended up in the road.
"There is glass everywhere now."
Earlier this week, plans were announced for a new 49-storey tower to be called Octagon which could be finished at Paradise by 2024 is permission is approved.
At 510ft, the 346-home Octagon would be 110ft taller than the Radisson Blu and 11ft taller than the BT Tower.
Worried about any future incidents and how long it might take to check and secure the entire Beetham Tower, Mukesh said: "Safety needs to be the top priority with these tall buildings."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
What is the Beetham Tower?
The 39-storey building was completed in 2006 and is said to be the tallest occupied building in the city, currently second only in height to the BT Tower (499ft).
The lower 19 floors are part of the Radisson Blu hotel which has 211 rooms, with 158 apartments above.
Looking at the site from the air via Google Maps, the shattered pane would appear to be directly over the top deck of the NCP New Street Station Car Park which sits in between the hotel and the Alexandra Theatre.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Lee Johnson explains 'the only way' to settle Villa dispute

Lee Johnson wants the season to finish as normal - even if it runs well into the summer months .
Football has been suspended for two months now and clubs are eagerly awaiting an update next week after further meetings between the Government , The FA , Premier League and EFL .
‘ Project Restart ’ is in full swing and players have been put on standby to return to training .
Aston Villa CEO Christian Purslow has this week revealed his reservations about the restart , with it being suggested that clubs will be asked to play at neutral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa Park will be to his side ’ s detriment and continues to play hard-ball with the Premier League .
But Bristol City boss Johnson , whose own team are in the Championship play-off picture , is adamant that this season must be finished .
“ For me , it is simple : you do n't restart until it 's safe , ” he told the Daily Mail .
“ When you do , you resume the current season .
I would n't have a cut-off point .
“ For the integrity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do it .
With the contracts , there are a lot of agendas but you would hope a form of common sense would prevail .
“ I 've been involved in a play-off push here as a player .
I know the buzz around the city .
I want to experience it as a manager.
” Johnson has also given a fascinating insight into how he ’ ll initially reintroduce his players to the training ground , whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines .
He added : “ If the Government relax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organise individual sessions — four coaches with a pitch each , along with social distancing .
“ The boys will drive in with no facilities open at all and take defined , coned-off routes to the pitches .
Someone will jet-wash and sterilise equipment after every mini-session .
We 'll use a food delivery service rather than the canteen .
Sign up to our Aston Villa newsletter here “ It 'll be groups of six to eight but you ca n't put the back four together , for example , because if one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of them for 14 days .
Then we have to find a way of incorporating matches .
“ A normal pre-season would mean seven games in six weeks .
We 'll have to do in-house games at best .
We might train a lot in our stadium to give them the feel of closed doors .
”

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Lee Johnson wants the season to finish as normal - even if it runs well into the summer months.
Football has been suspended for two months now and clubs are eagerly awaiting an update next week after further meetings between the Government, The FA, Premier League and EFL.
‘Project Restart’ is in full swing and players have been put on standby to return to training.
Aston Villa CEO Christian Purslow has this week revealed his reservations about the restart, with it being suggested that clubs will be asked to play at neutral venues.
Purslow believes playing away from Villa Park will be to his side’s detriment and continues to play hard-ball with the Premier League.
But Bristol City boss Johnson, whose own team are in the Championship play-off picture, is adamant that this season must be finished.
“For me, it is simple: you don't restart until it's safe,” he told the Daily Mail. “When you do, you resume the current season. I wouldn't have a cut-off point.
“For the integrity of the game it is the only way to do it. With the contracts, there are a lot of agendas but you would hope a form of common sense would prevail.
“I've been involved in a play-off push here as a player. I know the buzz around the city. I want to experience it as a manager.”
Johnson has also given a fascinating insight into how he’ll initially reintroduce his players to the training ground, whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.
He added: “If the Government relax lockdown the first thing will be to organise individual sessions — four coaches with a pitch each, along with social distancing.
“The boys will drive in with no facilities open at all and take defined, coned-off routes to the pitches. Someone will jet-wash and sterilise equipment after every mini-session. We'll use a food delivery service rather than the canteen.
Sign up to our Aston Villa newsletter here
“It'll be groups of six to eight but you can't put the back four together, for example, because if one gets coronavirus you'll have to isolate all of them for 14 days. Then we have to find a way of incorporating matches.
“A normal pre-season would mean seven games in six weeks. We'll have to do in-house games at best. We might train a lot in our stadium to give them the feel of closed doors.”


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Gogglebox star dies after short illness

Gogglebox star dies after short illness

The 82-year-old was a favourite on the show when she appeared alongside her husband Leon from 2013 .
She was was left devastated when he died at the age of 83 in 2017 , reports The Mirror .
The pair lived in Liverpool for 62 years but June left the city to be closer to her family when Leon died .
A statement from Channel 4 and production company Studio Lambert , on behalf of Bernicoff 's family , said : `` We are deeply saddened to announce that Gogglebox 's much-loved June Bernicoff passed away at the age of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her family by her side after a short illness .
`` As the first couple to be cast for Gogglebox back in 2013 , June and her husband Leon were a huge part of the programme 's success .
Their warmth , wit and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series .
`` Following Leon 's passing in December 2017 , June wrote her first book , Leon And June : Our Story , which was a deeply moving and entertaining chronicle of their 60-year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , principled woman with a vivacious sense of humour and a huge passion for life , June will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family , cast and crew .
Despite her departure from the show in 2017 , she remained a passionate supporter of the programme , watching it every week , and she was in regular contact with the production team .
`` Our thoughts are with June 's family - Helen and Ian , Julie and Marc , and her beloved grandchildren Frances , Sam and Faye .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at this sad time , but would like to thank the hospice staff that supported them and cared for June so wonderfully and with such compassion in her final weeks .
June 's death was not related to Covid 19 . ''

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Gogglebox star June Bernicoff has died after a short illness.
The 82-year-old was a favourite on the show when she appeared alongside her husband Leon from 2013.
She was was left devastated when he died at the age of 83 in 2017, reports The Mirror.
The pair lived in Liverpool for 62 years but June left the city to be closer to her family when Leon died.
A statement from Channel 4 and production company Studio Lambert, on behalf of Bernicoff's family, said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that Gogglebox's much-loved June Bernicoff passed away at the age of 82 on May 5 at home with her family by her side after a short illness.
"As the first couple to be cast for Gogglebox back in 2013, June and her husband Leon were a huge part of the programme's success. Their warmth, wit and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series.
(Image: Daily Mirror)
"Following Leon's passing in December 2017, June wrote her first book, Leon And June: Our Story, which was a deeply moving and entertaining chronicle of their 60-year love affair.
"A remarkably independent, principled woman with a vivacious sense of humour and a huge passion for life, June will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew. Despite her departure from the show in 2017, she remained a passionate supporter of the programme, watching it every week, and she was in regular contact with the production team.
"Our thoughts are with June's family - Helen and Ian, Julie and Marc, and her beloved grandchildren Frances, Sam and Faye. The family would like to ask for privacy at this sad time, but would like to thank the hospice staff that supported them and cared for June so wonderfully and with such compassion in her final weeks. June's death was not related to Covid 19."


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Villa evening headlines as Grealish sparks fresh transfer speculation

Here are the Aston Villa evening headlines on Friday , May 8 .
Jack Grealish transfer hint may worry Villa fans and please Manchester United supporters Jack Grealish ’ s future looks destined to be the subject of speculation all summer , regardless of what happens with Aston Villa ’ s season .
And the uncertainty is sure to leave fans of both Villa and Manchester United reading a lot into the smallest hints .
Hints such as Grealish liking an Instagram post from United ’ s account , showing the goals from the club ’ s opening-day Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa ’ s star man this season , top-scoring with seven league goals and netting in the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford .
There may well be a perfectly innocent reason for the social media activity , but with United continually linked with the midfielder in the national media , this sort of thing can provoke a reaction .
Aston Villa are one of a number of teams keeping tabs on midfielder Glen Kamara after his impressive season at Rangers .
That ’ s according to France Football , who suggest the Finn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in January 2019 for just £50,000 - could fetch a fee of £10m .
Kamara came through Arsenal ’ s academy , playing once in the League Cup but never featuring for the Gunners in the league .
However , an impressive spell under Steven Gerrard has seen the 24-year-old linked with a step up .
Kamara has played 45 times for club and country this season , helping Rangers make the last 16 of the Europa League and playing his part as Finland qualified for their first ever European Championships .
Former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best of forward following contract decision Aston Villa supporters should be delighted if forward Keinan Davis is kept on by manager Dean Smith , as reports emerge that the manager will trigger a 12-month extension in the youngster ’ s deal .
And former defender Alan Hutton , who played with the 22-year-old during last season ’ s promotion campaign , believes the best is yet to come .
`` He ’ s got all the fundamentals to be an excellent striker , whether it be holding up the ball , swivelling , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goals , ” Hutton told Football Insider .
`` I ’ m glad that he ’ s got the extra year because he has struggled with hamstring injury and pelvic problems .
`` I ’ m hoping he ’ s over that and he has this year to push on .
I definitely think he can bring something to the team.
” Davis started the season strongly with a goal in the League Cup win over Crewe , but injuries got in the way and kept him sidelined from the end of October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to action , but with Mbwana Samatta arriving in the winter transfer window , Davis has been restricted to substitute appearances since making his comeback .

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Here are the Aston Villa evening headlines on Friday, May 8.
Jack Grealish transfer hint may worry Villa fans and please Manchester United supporters
Jack Grealish’s future looks destined to be the subject of speculation all summer, regardless of what happens with Aston Villa’s season.
And the uncertainty is sure to leave fans of both Villa and Manchester United reading a lot into the smallest hints.
Hints such as Grealish liking an Instagram post from United’s account, showing the goals from the club’s opening-day Premier League victory over Chelsea.
Grealish has been Villa’s star man this season, top-scoring with seven league goals and netting in the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford.
There may well be a perfectly innocent reason for the social media activity, but with United continually linked with the midfielder in the national media, this sort of thing can provoke a reaction.
Villa could offer Rangers midfielder a £10m route back to Premier League
Aston Villa are one of a number of teams keeping tabs on midfielder Glen Kamara after his impressive season at Rangers.
That’s according to France Football, who suggest the Finn - who moved to Ibrox from Dundee in January 2019 for just £50,000 - could fetch a fee of £10m.
Kamara came through Arsenal’s academy, playing once in the League Cup but never featuring for the Gunners in the league.
(Image: Getty Images)
However, an impressive spell under Steven Gerrard has seen the 24-year-old linked with a step up.
Kamara has played 45 times for club and country this season, helping Rangers make the last 16 of the Europa League and playing his part as Finland qualified for their first ever European Championships.
Former Villa defender believes fans will see the best of forward following contract decision
Aston Villa supporters should be delighted if forward Keinan Davis is kept on by manager Dean Smith, as reports emerge that the manager will trigger a 12-month extension in the youngster’s deal.
And former defender Alan Hutton, who played with the 22-year-old during last season’s promotion campaign, believes the best is yet to come.
"He’s got all the fundamentals to be an excellent striker, whether it be holding up the ball, swivelling, pace, hitting the target and scoring goals,” Hutton told Football Insider.
"I’m glad that he’s got the extra year because he has struggled with hamstring injury and pelvic problems.
"I’m hoping he’s over that and he has this year to push on. I definitely think he can bring something to the team.”
Davis started the season strongly with a goal in the League Cup win over Crewe, but injuries got in the way and kept him sidelined from the end of October until late January.
He has returned to action, but with Mbwana Samatta arriving in the winter transfer window, Davis has been restricted to substitute appearances since making his comeback.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Glorious pictures of how VE Day 2020 was celebrated in Birmingham

People across Birmingham today came together for the VE Day 75 celebrations - even if it was more in mind and spirit than body .
With the country still under lockdown amid the Covid-19 pandemic , there were no street parties of the kind that famously closed many roads for the Queen 's Silver Jubilee in 1977 .
And that was despite having such wonderfully warm , calm weather we so rarely seem to get ordinarily on traditional Bank Holiday weekends .
With Brummies restricted to their gardens it was n't easy for communities to celebrate as one .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their appreciation for the generation which gave everyone the freedoms they usually enjoy today as you can see in the photo story below .
Our BirminghamLive Facebook page carried a Facebook Live broadcast of a female bugler playing The Last Post in Hanging Lane , Northfield followed by an air raid siren .
One neighbour said she remembered the original VE Day , saying : `` I was just five years old . ''
Watching the broadcast , Tina O'Neill said : `` Made me feel so emotional - they gave their lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commented : `` Thank you grandad for saving the future for us all to pass on your memory . ''
Launched this year , Northfield 's Neighbourhood Network Scheme brings together key people in the area for regular meetings , either in person or now by Zoom to proactively deal with local issues .
A Facebook page called South Birmingham VE Day Picnic in Your Porch was set up to encourage neighbours to join in the celebrations from their own door steps .
Co-ordinatory Lisa Maguire organised for 18,000 leaflets to be distribution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association and an Extra Care home called Chatham Place .
Lisa said : `` I was inspired by Clap for Carers to think what we could do to get all of the older people who have been self-isolating out of their homes .
`` If you ask them how they are , they will always say 'All right ' , but when you talk to them a bit more you will find out what they really need so the scheme has been helping to arrange deliveries of food and prescriptions where needed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Over in Swains Grove in Kingstanding , families were again out on their front gardens all showing a best of British community spirit .
Store manager Chelsea Lambeth said : `` It 's a lovely grove where everyone has known each other for years and we wanted to encourage the residents to come out and share in the celebrations .
Chelsea is the proud mother of son called Archie - born two years ago this month a whole year before Meghan and Harry came up with their name for their son @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said .
`` It 's a shame that my grandad Thomas Lambeth died at the age of 90 in January - he was in the RAF and would have loved it today .
`` But I 've still got my other nan , Joan Burford , who was born here in the house where she has lived all of her life .
`` That shows how we are such a close community and its nice to use today to be able to teach the children about what happened during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8 , 1945 the Allied Forces of World War II celebrated the formal acceptance of surrender of Nazi Germany .
Earlier today to mark the 75th anniversary , The Red Arrows will flew over Buckingham Palace in London , and RAF Typhoon jets took to the skies over Cardiff , Edinburgh and Belfast .
A two-minutes silence was then held at 11am to honour the service and sacrifice of the wartime generation .
In the Midlands , Mark Ellis from the National Memorial Arboretum laid a wreath at the Armed Forces Memorial in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ address by the Queen will be broadcast at the exact moment her father , King George VI , gave a radio address on May 8 1945 .
The nation will then be invited to come together in a rendition of Vera Lynn 's We 'll Meet Again - also on BBC One .

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People across Birmingham today came together for the VE Day 75 celebrations - even if it was more in mind and spirit than body.
With the country still under lockdown amid the Covid-19 pandemic, there were no street parties of the kind that famously closed many roads for the Queen's Silver Jubilee in 1977.
And that was despite having such wonderfully warm, calm weather we so rarely seem to get ordinarily on traditional Bank Holiday weekends.
With Brummies restricted to their gardens it wasn't easy for communities to celebrate as one.
But many still put on something to show their appreciation for the generation which gave everyone the freedoms they usually enjoy today as you can see in the photo story below.
Our BirminghamLive Facebook page carried a Facebook Live broadcast of a female bugler playing The Last Post in Hanging Lane, Northfield followed by an air raid siren.
One neighbour said she remembered the original VE Day, saying: "I was just five years old."
Watching the broadcast, Tina O'Neill said: "Made me feel so emotional - they gave their lives for our tomorrows."
Another reader commented: "Thank you grandad for saving the future for us all to pass on your memory."
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Launched this year, Northfield's Neighbourhood Network Scheme brings together key people in the area for regular meetings, either in person or now by Zoom to proactively deal with local issues.
A Facebook page called South Birmingham VE Day Picnic in Your Porch was set up to encourage neighbours to join in the celebrations from their own door steps.
Co-ordinatory Lisa Maguire organised for 18,000 leaflets to be distribution and singers performed at Allens Cross Community Association and an Extra Care home called Chatham Place.
Lisa said: "I was inspired by Clap for Carers to think what we could do to get all of the older people who have been self-isolating out of their homes.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
"If you ask them how they are, they will always say 'All right', but when you talk to them a bit more you will find out what they really need so the scheme has been helping to arrange deliveries of food and prescriptions where needed and to make sure people are all right."
Over in Swains Grove in Kingstanding, families were again out on their front gardens all showing a best of British community spirit.
Store manager Chelsea Lambeth said: "It's a lovely grove where everyone has known each other for years and we wanted to encourage the residents to come out and share in the celebrations.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Chelsea is the proud mother of son called Archie - born two years ago this month a whole year before Meghan and Harry came up with their name for their son.
"I feel quite royal now," she said. "It's a shame that my grandad Thomas Lambeth died at the age of 90 in January - he was in the RAF and would have loved it today.
"But I've still got my other nan, Joan Burford, who was born here in the house where she has lived all of her life.
"That shows how we are such a close community and its nice to use today to be able to teach the children about what happened during the Second World War."
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Nationwide
On May 8, 1945 the Allied Forces of World War II celebrated the formal acceptance of surrender of Nazi Germany.
Earlier today to mark the 75th anniversary, The Red Arrows will flew over Buckingham Palace in London, and RAF Typhoon jets took to the skies over Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast.
A two-minutes silence was then held at 11am to honour the service and sacrifice of the wartime generation.
In the Midlands, Mark Ellis from the National Memorial Arboretum laid a wreath at the Armed Forces Memorial in Alrewas.
At 9pm, a pre-recorded address by the Queen will be broadcast at the exact moment her father, King George VI, gave a radio address on May 8 1945.
The nation will then be invited to come together in a rendition of Vera Lynn's We'll Meet Again - also on BBC One.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--40 football pub quiz questions ideal for video quizzing

It has been almost two months since football was paused to the coronavirus pandemic .
The last two months has seen fans completely starved of their favourite sport , both home and abroad .
The end is in sight with Bundesliga set to return on May 16 , while the Premier League and EFL remains on hold .
To help pass some more time before the English game returns , with the help of the Mirror , have put together a football quiz .
How many of the 40 can you get correct ?
The answers are at the bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and be sure to let us know how you got off .
1 .
When was the first Premier League season ?
2. Who has the most European Cup/Champions League victories ?
3 .
When did Liverpool last win the league ?
4. Who was the first £1million footballer ?
5 .
Which team used to have Classic FM as its shirt sponsor ?
6 .
How many times had Manchester City won the league before 2012 ?
SIGN UP FOR OUR VILLA , BLUES , WEST BROM AND WOLVES NEWSLETTERS HERE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ Or ?
8 .
How many times has Sergio Ramos been sent off in his career ?
9 .
Which was the last team from outside the top division to win the FA Cup ?
10 .
What was the name of Sunderland ’ s ground before they moved to the Stadium of Light ?
11 .
When did Alex Ferguson become Manchester United manager ?
12 .
Which nation won the first European Championship ( Euros ) in 1960 ?
13. Who has scored the most own goals in the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5-4 in the 2001 UEFA Cup final ?
15 .
When did England last fail to qualify for a major tournament ?
16. Who scored Brazil 's only goal in their 7-1 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup ?
17 .
Name the actor who played Captain Robert Hatch - the goalkeeper for the Allies in Escape to Victory .
18 .
How many English players were in Liverpool 's starting XI when they won the 2005 Champions League final ?
19. Who has won the Champions League most as manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 .
Name the Britpop band that joined up with Baddiel and Skinner to record Three Lions ahead of Euro 96 ?
21 .
Which National League side was top of the table prior to the lockdown ?
22 .
How many clubs did David Beckham play for during his career ?
23 .
True or false - Oliver Kahn has never won the World Cup 24 .
Which club are Gary Neville , Philip Neville , Ryan Giggs , Nicky Butt , Paul Scholes and David Beckham joint owners of ?
25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leicester City players after they kept their first clean sheet of their title-winning season ?
26 .
In what year did Arsenal leave Highbury ?
27. Who has scored the most goals in World Cup tournaments ?
28 .
What career has former Portsmouth and Wigan defender Arjan de Zeeuw switched to since retiring from football ?
29 .
How did Jurgen Klinsmann celebrate his first goal for Tottenham ?
30 .
What was thrown at Luis Figo by Barcelona fans when he returned to the Camp Nou with Real Madrid ?
31.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ only goal - in Portsmouth 's FA Cup final win over Cardiff in 2008 ?
32 .
In 2018 , Mo Salah broke the record for most goals scored in a Premier League season with 32 .
Which three players previously held the record with 31 ?
33 .
Which team in the Football League has the stadium with the smallest listed capacity ?
34 .
Petr Cech has the most clean sheets in history with 202 , who is second ?
35 .
Which two teams have been relegated from the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What changed about the FA Cup semi-finals in 2008 ?
37 .
Which manager once told police : “ I write like a two-year-old and I ca n't spell ” ?
38 .
Which English player has scored more MLS goals than any other English player ?
39 .
During their title-winning season in 2004/05 , Chelsea lost just one league game .
Who beat them ?
2 .
Real Madrid , who have lifted the trophy 13 times 3 .
1990 - will that agonising wait for another league title end this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus ?
!
4 .
Trevor Francis when he moved from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979 , despite Forest boss Brian Clough saying the fee was £999,999 7 .
Stanley Matthews in 1956 when he was playing for Blackpool 19 .
Neither - both have won it twice as manager .
Guardiola in 2009 and 2011 with Barcelona , and Mourinho with Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010 23 .
True - he was part of the German side that won Euro 96 but did not win the World @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Dutch police , specialising in forensics 36 .
Like the final , they would be played at Wembley Stadium .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (David Stubbings, Jamie Kemble)

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It has been almost two months since football was paused to the coronavirus pandemic.
The last two months has seen fans completely starved of their favourite sport, both home and abroad.
The end is in sight with Bundesliga set to return on May 16, while the Premier League and EFL remains on hold.
To help pass some more time before the English game returns, with the help of the Mirror, have put together a football quiz.
How many of the 40 can you get correct?
The answers are at the bottom of the page (no cheating!) and be sure to let us know how you got off.
Football quiz questions
1. When was the first Premier League season?
2. Who has the most European Cup/Champions League victories?
3. When did Liverpool last win the league?
4. Who was the first £1million footballer?
5. Which team used to have Classic FM as its shirt sponsor?
6. How many times had Manchester City won the league before 2012?
7. Who won the first Ballon d’Or?
8. How many times has Sergio Ramos been sent off in his career?
9. Which was the last team from outside the top division to win the FA Cup?
10. What was the name of Sunderland’s ground before they moved to the Stadium of Light?
11. When did Alex Ferguson become Manchester United manager?
12. Which nation won the first European Championship (Euros) in 1960?
13. Who has scored the most own goals in the Premier League?
14. Who did Liverpool beat 5-4 in the 2001 UEFA Cup final?
15. When did England last fail to qualify for a major tournament?
16. Who scored Brazil's only goal in their 7-1 defeat by Germany in the 2014 World Cup?
17. Name the actor who played Captain Robert Hatch - the goalkeeper for the Allies in Escape to Victory.
18. How many English players were in Liverpool's starting XI when they won the 2005 Champions League final?
19. Who has won the Champions League most as manager? Pep Guardiola or Jose Mourinho?
20. Name the Britpop band that joined up with Baddiel and Skinner to record Three Lions ahead of Euro 96?
21. Which National League side was top of the table prior to the lockdown?
22. How many clubs did David Beckham play for during his career?
23. True or false - Oliver Kahn has never won the World Cup
24. Which club are Gary Neville, Philip Neville, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and David Beckham joint owners of?
25. What did Claudio Ranieri buy his Leicester City players after they kept their first clean sheet of their title-winning season?
26. In what year did Arsenal leave Highbury?
27. Who has scored the most goals in World Cup tournaments?
28. What career has former Portsmouth and Wigan defender Arjan de Zeeuw switched to since retiring from football?
29. How did Jurgen Klinsmann celebrate his first goal for Tottenham?
30. What was thrown at Luis Figo by Barcelona fans when he returned to the Camp Nou with Real Madrid?
31. Who scored the winner - and the only goal - in Portsmouth's FA Cup final win over Cardiff in 2008?
32. In 2018, Mo Salah broke the record for most goals scored in a Premier League season with 32. Which three players previously held the record with 31?
33. Which team in the Football League has the stadium with the smallest listed capacity?
34. Petr Cech has the most clean sheets in history with 202, who is second?
35. Which two teams have been relegated from the Premier League the most times?
36. What changed about the FA Cup semi-finals in 2008?
37. Which manager once told police: “I write like a two-year-old and I can't spell”?
38. Which English player has scored more MLS goals than any other English player?
39. During their title-winning season in 2004/05, Chelsea lost just one league game. Who beat them?
40. Who holds the Championship points record?
Answers
1. 1992/93
2. Real Madrid, who have lifted the trophy 13 times
3. 1990 - will that agonising wait for another league title end this year or will they be denied by coronavirus?!
4. Trevor Francis when he moved from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979, despite Forest boss Brian Clough saying the fee was £999,999
5. Queens Park Rangers from 1992-1994
6. 1967/68 season
7. Stanley Matthews in 1956 when he was playing for Blackpool
8. 26
9. West Ham in 1980
10. Roker Park
11. 1986
12. Soviet Union
13. Richard Dunne with 10
14. Alaves
15. Euro 2008
16. Oscar
17. Sylvester Stallone
18. Two - Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher
19. Neither - both have won it twice as manager. Guardiola in 2009 and 2011 with Barcelona, and Mourinho with Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010
20. The Lightning Seeds
21. Barrow
22. Six - Manchester United, Preston North End, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain
23. True - he was part of the German side that won Euro 96 but did not win the World Cup
24. Salford City
25. Pizza
26. 2006
27. Miroslav Klose - he's scored 16 goals at four World Cup tournaments
28. Detective - he works in the Dutch police, specialising in forensics
29. An exaggerated dive
30. A pig's head.
31. Nwankwo Kanu
32. Alan Shearer, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez
33. AFC Wimbledon - Kingsmeadow (4,850)
34. David James (169)
35. Crystal Palace and Norwich City (four)
36. Like the final, they would be played at Wembley Stadium.
37. Harry Redknapp
38. Bradley Wright-Phillips (108)
39. Manchester City (1-0)
40. Reading (106 points in 2005/06)


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Premier League set to threaten Aston Villa at key meeting - report

The Premier League will threaten Aston Villa on Monday by forcing Dean Smith 's side to see out the season at neutral venues .
Sky Sports claim chiefs will back the bottom six clubs into a corner by warning them of severe repercussions if they vote against Project Restart .
The report states how clubs like Villa `` will be warned that the season not restarting at neutral venues could cost them more than relegation '' .
The six bottom clubs - Brighton , West Ham , Watford , Bournemouth , Villa and Norwich - have reservations about proposals to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grounds without fans .
They believe giving up home advantage could affect their chances of staying up and compromise the integrity of the competition .
Villa 's chief exec Christian Purslow said this week : `` We 've got six home games left to play and I think any Villa fan would agree that giving up that advantage is a massive decision for somebody running Aston Villa and I certainly would n't agree to that unless those circumstances are right . ''
However , Villa are likely to be warned that the protocols @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the start of next season , so they need to think about the long-term consequences of voting against playing at neutral grounds .
At least 14 clubs need to back the proposals before games can restart with the Premier League meeting taking place on Monday - just hours after the government announces the latest review of lockdown restrictions .
Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the season while they have been encouraged by the fact the Bundesliga is due to return behind-closed-doors next weekend .

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The Premier League will threaten Aston Villa on Monday by forcing Dean Smith's side to see out the season at neutral venues.
Sky Sports claim chiefs will back the bottom six clubs into a corner by warning them of severe repercussions if they vote against Project Restart.
The report states how clubs like Villa "will be warned that the season not restarting at neutral venues could cost them more than relegation".
The six bottom clubs - Brighton, West Ham, Watford, Bournemouth, Villa and Norwich - have reservations about proposals to finish the season by playing at neutral grounds without fans.
They believe giving up home advantage could affect their chances of staying up and compromise the integrity of the competition.
Villa's chief exec Christian Purslow said this week: "We've got six home games left to play and I think any Villa fan would agree that giving up that advantage is a massive decision for somebody running Aston Villa and I certainly wouldn't agree to that unless those circumstances are right."
However, Villa are likely to be warned that the protocols for games restarting could be in place for the start of next season, so they need to think about the long-term consequences of voting against playing at neutral grounds.
At least 14 clubs need to back the proposals before games can restart with the Premier League meeting taking place on Monday - just hours after the government announces the latest review of lockdown restrictions.
Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the season while they have been encouraged by the fact the Bundesliga is due to return behind-closed-doors next weekend.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Lee Johnson explains 'the only way' to settle West Brom dispute

Lee Johnson wants the Championship season to finish - even if it runs well into the summer months .
Football has been suspended for two months now and clubs are eagerly awaiting an update next week after further meetings between the Government , The FA , Premier League and EFL .
‘ Project Restart ’ is in full swing and players have been put on standby to return to training .
Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion , who sit first and second in the Championship respectively , are desperate to resume the season and win promotion .
And Bristol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the play-off shake-up prior to the suspension of fixtures , insists there ’ s only one way to conclude the campaign .
“ For me , it is simple : you do n't restart until it 's safe , ” he told the Daily Mail .
“ When you do , you resume the current season .
I would n't have a cut-off point .
“ For the integrity of the game it is the only way to do it .
With the contracts , there are a lot of agendas but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sense would prevail .
“ I 've been involved in a play-off push here as a player .
I know the buzz around the city .
I want to experience it as a manager.
” Johnson has also given a fascinating insight into how he ’ ll initially reintroduce his players to the training ground , whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines .
He added : “ If the Government relax lockdown the first thing will be to organise individual sessions - four coaches with a pitch each , along with social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with no facilities open at all and take defined , coned-off routes to the pitches .
Someone will jet-wash and sterilise equipment after every mini-session .
We 'll use a food delivery service rather than the canteen .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com “ It 'll be groups of six to eight but you ca n't put the back four together , for example , because if one gets coronavirus you 'll have to isolate all of them for 14 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way of incorporating matches .
“ A normal pre-season would mean seven games in six weeks .
We 'll have to do in-house games at best .
We might train a lot in our stadium to give them the feel of closed doors .
”

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Lee Johnson wants the Championship season to finish - even if it runs well into the summer months.
Football has been suspended for two months now and clubs are eagerly awaiting an update next week after further meetings between the Government, The FA, Premier League and EFL.
‘Project Restart’ is in full swing and players have been put on standby to return to training.
Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion, who sit first and second in the Championship respectively, are desperate to resume the season and win promotion.
And Bristol City boss Johnson, whose team were in the play-off shake-up prior to the suspension of fixtures, insists there’s only one way to conclude the campaign.
“For me, it is simple: you don't restart until it's safe,” he told the Daily Mail. “When you do, you resume the current season. I wouldn't have a cut-off point.
“For the integrity of the game it is the only way to do it. With the contracts, there are a lot of agendas but you would hope a form of common sense would prevail.
“I've been involved in a play-off push here as a player. I know the buzz around the city. I want to experience it as a manager.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Johnson has also given a fascinating insight into how he’ll initially reintroduce his players to the training ground, whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.
He added: “If the Government relax lockdown the first thing will be to organise individual sessions - four coaches with a pitch each, along with social distancing.
“The boys will drive in with no facilities open at all and take defined, coned-off routes to the pitches. Someone will jet-wash and sterilise equipment after every mini-session. We'll use a food delivery service rather than the canteen.
“It'll be groups of six to eight but you can't put the back four together, for example, because if one gets coronavirus you'll have to isolate all of them for 14 days. Then we have to find a way of incorporating matches.
“A normal pre-season would mean seven games in six weeks. We'll have to do in-house games at best. We might train a lot in our stadium to give them the feel of closed doors.”


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Aston Villa yet to strike fresh deal with Keinan Davis - report

Aston Villa want to tie Keinan Davis down on a long-term contract - but are yet to agree a new deal .
Dean Smith triggered a 12-month extension on Davis ' contract last month knowing it was set to expire on June 30 .
What that 's done is allowed Smith to pin down the young striker amid stern interest from several Championship clubs .
Last summer , the 22-year-old was wanted by the likes of Swansea , Sheffield Wednesday , QPR and Huddersfield - but Smith wanted Davis around .
The youngster was on the cusp of nudging £22million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a hamstring injury in the Carabao Cup against Wolves back in October .
The knock ruled Davis out for three months and , shortly after returning , he tweaked his hamstring yet again in an under-23s match vs West Brom .
With Wesley out injured , though , Davis has been Smith 's second-choice striker behind January addition Mbwana Samatta .
After extending Davis ' deal for another year , Smith wants to offer the forward a longer contract to ensure Villa do n't lose him for nothing next year .
Football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man as a rough diamond that 's yet to be given a fair crack in the Premier League .
Talks between Villa and Davis ' representatives are yet to agree on a new , longer-term contract .
The striker 's deal now runs until June 2021 .
Elsewhere , out-of-contract stars Andre Green and Callum O'Hare are yet to be offered new deals by Aston Villa .

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Aston Villa want to tie Keinan Davis down on a long-term contract - but are yet to agree a new deal.
Dean Smith triggered a 12-month extension on Davis' contract last month knowing it was set to expire on June 30.
What that's done is allowed Smith to pin down the young striker amid stern interest from several Championship clubs.
Last summer, the 22-year-old was wanted by the likes of Swansea, Sheffield Wednesday, QPR and Huddersfield - but Smith wanted Davis around.
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
The youngster was on the cusp of nudging £22million Wesley out of the starting XI prior to a hamstring injury in the Carabao Cup against Wolves back in October.
The knock ruled Davis out for three months and, shortly after returning, he tweaked his hamstring yet again in an under-23s match vs West Brom.
With Wesley out injured, though, Davis has been Smith's second-choice striker behind January addition Mbwana Samatta.
After extending Davis' deal for another year, Smith wants to offer the forward a longer contract to ensure Villa don't lose him for nothing next year.
Football Insider claim Smith sees the ex-England under-20 man as a rough diamond that's yet to be given a fair crack in the Premier League.
Talks between Villa and Davis' representatives are yet to agree on a new, longer-term contract. The striker's deal now runs until June 2021.
Elsewhere, out-of-contract stars Andre Green and Callum O'Hare are yet to be offered new deals by Aston Villa.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--TUI latest news on cancellations and refunds for your summer holiday bookings

As UK lockdown continues , there is much uncertainty over when overseas flights , holidays and cruises will get under way again .
The Government 's own foreign travel advice is : `` As countries respond to the Covid-19 pandemic , including travel and border restrictions , the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel .
`` Any country or area may restrict travel without notice .
If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad , you are strongly advised to return now , where and while there are still commercial routes available .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ many airports are closing , preventing flights from leaving . ''
UK airlines had been expecting to resume flights at the start of the summer season , but what is the latest information ?
TUI has updated its travel advice for any holidays booked this summer , including cruises .
Here 's what it said : TUI said : `` Due to the ongoing situation regarding COVID-19 , the Foreign and Commonwealth Office have advised against all but essential travel .
`` Unfortunately , this means that we ’ re no longer able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before June 11 , 2020 and Marella Cruises sailings travelling on or before June 30 , 2020 .
`` We 've also made the difficult decision to postpone the launch of TUI River Cruises until November 26 , 2020 . ''
It says the cancellation of cruise bookings also applies to : • Sailings on Marella Discovery 2 up to April 30 , 2021 • Sailings on Marella Dream up to May 4 , 2021 • Marella Explorer 2 sailings between May 5 2021 to October 20 2021 What to do if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer go ahead , you ’ ll receive a refund credit for the full value of your holiday and - if it was part of a package - a separate booking incentive up to 20 per cent .
if your original booking was part of a package , your refund credit will carry the same ATOL protection .
And if your Marella Cruises or TUI River Cruises booking was cabin-only , or sailed from a UK port , your refund credit is protected under the ABTA bonding scheme .
Those who receive a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can apply for a refund .
TUI is asking people to wait until they have received the credit first , so they can deal with people in date order .
But if you need to ask for a refund before that , speak to the call centre team on 0203 451 2868 between 9am and 7pm from Monday to Friday .
If your original booking was for a TUI River Cruise and you were due to travel on or before May 31 , 2020 you ’ ll also receive a refund credit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent .
Refund credits were due to have been received by May 1 , but the company said : `` We ’ re not going to be able to meet the deadline we set .
`` We ’ re really sorry , and appreciate how frustrating this must be .
We can assure you that we are in the final stages of testing and your refund credit will be with you soon . ''
If your river cruise was due to depart between June and October 2020 , TUI will get in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to pay the balance on your booking ?
TUI says that customers must carry on paying for their holiday if they have n't already handed over the full balance .
It explained : `` We appreciate that you may be feeling apprehensive about paying your balance .
Unfortunately , if you don ’ t continue with payments your holiday will be cancelled .
`` If you booked in a TUI store you can call 0800 009 3836 or 0203 636 1997 between 9am and 5.30pm from Monday to Friday as we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help you .
`` To give you peace of mind , we ’ d like to reassure you that all of our package holidays are ATOL protected , and all of our Marella Cruises or TUI River Cruises bookings which are cabin-only or sail from a UK port are protected under the ABTA bonding scheme , so you can pay your balance with confidence .
`` And , should your holiday be cancelled at a later date , you ’ ll have the option to receive a refund credit or cash refund .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ full TUI Travel Promise : • If you booked a TUI holiday on or before March 16 , 2020 , and are due to travel before July 11 , 2020 , you can amend your holiday for free and your balance due date will move to 12 weeks before your new departure date .
• If you booked a Marella Cruises sailing on or before March 16 , 2020 , and are due to travel before July 31 , 2020 , you can amend your holiday for free and your balance due date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new departure date .
• If you made your booking after March 16 , you have the added flexibility of being able to pay your balance four weeks before your departure date .

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As UK lockdown continues, there is much uncertainty over when overseas flights, holidays and cruises will get under way again.
The Government's own foreign travel advice is: "As countries respond to the Covid-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel.
"Any country or area may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available.
"Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving."
UK airlines had been expecting to resume flights at the start of the summer season, but what is the latest information?
TUI has updated its travel advice for any holidays booked this summer, including cruises. Here's what it said:
(Image: TUI UK)
What's happening with TUI bookings?
TUI said: "Due to the ongoing situation regarding COVID-19, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office have advised against all but essential travel.
"Unfortunately, this means that we’re no longer able to offer TUI holidays travelling on or before June 11, 2020 and Marella Cruises sailings travelling on or before June 30, 2020.
"We've also made the difficult decision to postpone the launch of TUI River Cruises until November 26, 2020."
It says the cancellation of cruise bookings also applies to:
All sailings on Marella Celebration
Sailings on Marella Discovery 2 up to April 30, 2021
Sailings on Marella Dream up to May 4, 2021
Marella Discovery sailings in December 2020 and January 2021
Marella Explorer 2 sailings between May 5 2021 to October 20 2021
What to do if you're affected
If your holiday can no longer go ahead, you’ll receive a refund credit for the full value of your holiday and - if it was part of a package - a separate booking incentive up to 20 per cent.
if your original booking was part of a package, your refund credit will carry the same ATOL protection. And if your Marella Cruises or TUI River Cruises booking was cabin-only, or sailed from a UK port, your refund credit is protected under the ABTA bonding scheme.
Those who receive a credit but are unable to accept it can apply for a refund.
TUI is asking people to wait until they have received the credit first, so they can deal with people in date order. But if you need to ask for a refund before that, speak to the call centre team on 0203 451 2868 between 9am and 7pm from Monday to Friday.
If your original booking was for a TUI River Cruise and you were due to travel on or before May 31, 2020 you’ll also receive a refund credit and a separate booking incentive up to 20 per cent.
Refund credits were due to have been received by May 1, but the company said: "We’re not going to be able to meet the deadline we set.
"We’re really sorry, and appreciate how frustrating this must be. We can assure you that we are in the final stages of testing and your refund credit will be with you soon."
If your river cruise was due to depart between June and October 2020, TUI will get in touch with an update.
Do you need to pay the balance on your booking?
TUI says that customers must carry on paying for their holiday if they haven't already handed over the full balance.
It explained: "We appreciate that you may be feeling apprehensive about paying your balance. Unfortunately, if you don’t continue with payments your holiday will be cancelled.
"If you booked in a TUI store you can call 0800 009 3836 or 0203 636 1997 between 9am and 5.30pm from Monday to Friday as we have Travel Advisors working who are able to help you.
"To give you peace of mind, we’d like to reassure you that all of our package holidays are ATOL protected, and all of our Marella Cruises or TUI River Cruises bookings which are cabin-only or sail from a UK port are protected under the ABTA bonding scheme, so you can pay your balance with confidence.
"And, should your holiday be cancelled at a later date, you’ll have the option to receive a refund credit or cash refund."
It said it was offering the full TUI Travel Promise:
• If you booked a TUI holiday on or before March 16, 2020, and are due to travel before July 11, 2020, you can amend your holiday for free and your balance due date will move to 12 weeks before your new departure date.
• If you booked a Marella Cruises sailing on or before March 16, 2020, and are due to travel before July 31, 2020, you can amend your holiday for free and your balance due date will move to 12 weeks before your new departure date.
• If you made your booking after March 16, you have the added flexibility of being able to pay your balance four weeks before your departure date.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--Christian Benteke fires dig at Liverpool after Aston Villa switch

Adored former Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has spoken of his regret after his £32.5million transfer to Liverpool in 2015 .
The Belgian fired in 49 goals in just 101 appearances at Villa Park across three memorable seasons .
The striker was on course to break Gabby Agbonlahor 's all-time Premier League goal record for Villa ( 74 ) , but for a summer transfer to the Reds .
The deal came just months after Benteke inspired Villa to a FA Cup semi-final victory over Brendan Rodgers ' side .
Benteke started well at Anfield but , after Jurgen Klopp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggled for game-time .
Looking back on his big-money move from Villa to Liverpool , Benteke told talkSPORT : `` That was a regret .
I do n't like that term but I wish I had more time to prove myself because I could have shown a better Benteke .
`` I will say from Aston Villa to Liverpool to Crystal Palace I play with different managers .
`` When I was at Villa , for example , we were more like an attacking team .
`` I remember we played a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We were constantly conceding goals but we were scoring a lot of goals as well .
`` With Crystal Palace under Roy , for example , we are more like a compact team .
We do n't score a lot of goals but we do n't concede a lot of goals as well .
Your task changes .
`` You have to think about helping other players , not like how many goals am I going to score today ?
If I say I will have four or five chances , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get one or two and we have to make sure we score from two chances and make sure we are in a good shape .
`` We are hard to break down when we are in the shape . ''
Benteke has gone from being a goal-every-other-game striker to not scoring at Selhurst Park for Crystal Palace in over two years .
The Holte End hero , meanwhile , will always have a special place in his heart for Aston Villa .
`` I will never forget this moment ( signing for Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even at the end of my career looking back at the good and bad memories .
`` When I came it was my dream to play in the Premier League because it 's the best league in the world .
`` I came as a young kid and had the chance to be good directly with Aston Villa and that 's how I made my name . ''
Dean Smith was linked with a loan move for Benteke in January .
The 29-year-old 's Palace contract expires next summer .

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Adored former Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has spoken of his regret after his £32.5million transfer to Liverpool in 2015.
The Belgian fired in 49 goals in just 101 appearances at Villa Park across three memorable seasons.
The striker was on course to break Gabby Agbonlahor's all-time Premier League goal record for Villa (74), but for a summer transfer to the Reds.
The deal came just months after Benteke inspired Villa to a FA Cup semi-final victory over Brendan Rodgers' side.
Benteke started well at Anfield but, after Jurgen Klopp arrived in October, the ex-Genk man struggled for game-time.
Looking back on his big-money move from Villa to Liverpool, Benteke told talkSPORT: "That was a regret. I don't like that term but I wish I had more time to prove myself because I could have shown a better Benteke.
"I will say from Aston Villa to Liverpool to Crystal Palace I play with different managers.
"When I was at Villa, for example, we were more like an attacking team.
"I remember we played a lot of games winning 3-2, 4-3. We were constantly conceding goals but we were scoring a lot of goals as well.
"With Crystal Palace under Roy, for example, we are more like a compact team. We don't score a lot of goals but we don't concede a lot of goals as well. Your task changes.
"You have to think about helping other players, not like how many goals am I going to score today? If I say I will have four or five chances, it's a lie. We are going to get one or two and we have to make sure we score from two chances and make sure we are in a good shape.
"We are hard to break down when we are in the shape."
poll loading Would you bring Benteke back to Aston Villa? 4000+ VOTES SO FAR Yes No
Benteke has gone from being a goal-every-other-game striker to not scoring at Selhurst Park for Crystal Palace in over two years.
The Holte End hero, meanwhile, will always have a special place in his heart for Aston Villa.
"I will never forget this moment (signing for Villa)," he said, "even at the end of my career looking back at the good and bad memories.
"When I came it was my dream to play in the Premier League because it's the best league in the world.
"I came as a young kid and had the chance to be good directly with Aston Villa and that's how I made my name."
Dean Smith was linked with a loan move for Benteke in January. The 29-year-old's Palace contract expires next summer.


birminghammail--2020-05-08--The EFL want to abolish 'evil' plan helping West Brom

EFL chairman Rick Parry wants to abolish parachute payments in a move which would have a huge impact on the future of the Championship .
The football world is currently in turmoil due to the coronavirus pandemic and The FA , Premier League and EFL are desperate to resume the season next month .
West Bromwich Albion 's season has been suspended for two months and doubts have risen about whether Slaven Bilic 's side will be given the green light to finish off their promotion push .
Leeds United , who are one point ahead of the Baggies at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the same boat .
Whether 'Project Restart ' happens or not remains to be seen , but Parry is calling for changes in the way the Premier League ’ s money is distributed across the EFL .
Parachute payments were introduced to support the three teams relegated from the Premier League and ensure they can continue to fund their wage bills despite the significant drop in revenue .
The payments last for three seasons after relegation and have allowed Albion to keep the likes of captain Jake Livermore despite dropping to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it gives teams an unfair advantage and does n't want those relegated in the future to receive the same luxuries .
“ I do think we need a complete reset and we do need to look at the redistribution of the revenues , ” Parry told MPs earlier this week .
“ I touched on parachute payments which I think are an evil that need to be eradicated .
“ We have six clubs in the Championship in receipt of parachute payments , giving them an average of £40million per club .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are then struggling to try to keep up .
“ And , lower down , the solidarity money is welcome but it becomes very small .
I do think there 's a need for a reset .
I would n't call it a bailout , I 'd call it a restructuring and a re-thinking .
For me it 's overdue and it 's necessary .
”

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EFL chairman Rick Parry wants to abolish parachute payments in a move which would have a huge impact on the future of the Championship.
The football world is currently in turmoil due to the coronavirus pandemic and The FA, Premier League and EFL are desperate to resume the season next month.
West Bromwich Albion's season has been suspended for two months and doubts have risen about whether Slaven Bilic's side will be given the green light to finish off their promotion push. Leeds United, who are one point ahead of the Baggies at the top of the table, are in the same boat.
Whether 'Project Restart' happens or not remains to be seen, but Parry is calling for changes in the way the Premier League’s money is distributed across the EFL.
Parachute payments were introduced to support the three teams relegated from the Premier League and ensure they can continue to fund their wage bills despite the significant drop in revenue.
The payments last for three seasons after relegation and have allowed Albion to keep the likes of captain Jake Livermore despite dropping to the second tier.
However, Parry says it gives teams an unfair advantage and doesn't want those relegated in the future to receive the same luxuries.
“I do think we need a complete reset and we do need to look at the redistribution of the revenues,” Parry told MPs earlier this week. “I touched on parachute payments which I think are an evil that need to be eradicated.
“We have six clubs in the Championship in receipt of parachute payments, giving them an average of £40million per club. The other 18 clubs get £4.5million each so they are then struggling to try to keep up.
“And, lower down, the solidarity money is welcome but it becomes very small. I do think there's a need for a reset. I wouldn't call it a bailout, I'd call it a restructuring and a re-thinking. For me it's overdue and it's necessary.”


birminghammail--2020-05-08--EFL reveal plan to abolish 'evil' rule - and it could cripple Villa

EFL chairman Rick Parry wants to abolish parachute payments in a move which could have grave implications for Aston Villa .
The football world is currently in turmoil due to the coronavirus pandemic and The FA , Premier League and EFL are desperate to resume the season next month .
Whether that happens or not remains to be seen , but Parry is calling for changes in the way the Premier League ’ s money is distributed across the EFL .
Parachute payments were introduced to support the three teams relegated from the Premier League and ensure they can continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant drop in revenue .
The payments last for three seasons after relegation and allowed Villa to operate with a significantly higher wage bill than the majority of their rivals during their recent stint in the Championship .
However , Parry says it gives teams an unfair advantage and wants to bring about changes once the pandemic is over .
With Villa among the contenders to return to the Championship , such a move would have a huge effect on the club ’ s dealings .
“ I do think we need a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look at the redistribution of the revenues , ” Parry told MPs earlier this week .
“ I touched on parachute payments which I think are an evil that need to be eradicated .
“ We have six clubs in the Championship in receipt of parachute payments , giving them an average of £40million per club .
The other 18 clubs get £4.5million each so they are then struggling to try to keep up .
“ And , lower down , the solidarity money is welcome but it becomes very small .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reset .
I would n't call it a bailout , I 'd call it a restructuring and a re-thinking .
For me it 's overdue and it 's necessary .
”

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EFL chairman Rick Parry wants to abolish parachute payments in a move which could have grave implications for Aston Villa.
The football world is currently in turmoil due to the coronavirus pandemic and The FA, Premier League and EFL are desperate to resume the season next month.
Whether that happens or not remains to be seen, but Parry is calling for changes in the way the Premier League’s money is distributed across the EFL.
Parachute payments were introduced to support the three teams relegated from the Premier League and ensure they can continue to fund their wage bills despite the significant drop in revenue.
The payments last for three seasons after relegation and allowed Villa to operate with a significantly higher wage bill than the majority of their rivals during their recent stint in the Championship.
However, Parry says it gives teams an unfair advantage and wants to bring about changes once the pandemic is over.
With Villa among the contenders to return to the Championship, such a move would have a huge effect on the club’s dealings.
“I do think we need a complete reset and we do need to look at the redistribution of the revenues,” Parry told MPs earlier this week. “I touched on parachute payments which I think are an evil that need to be eradicated.
“We have six clubs in the Championship in receipt of parachute payments, giving them an average of £40million per club. The other 18 clubs get £4.5million each so they are then struggling to try to keep up.
“And, lower down, the solidarity money is welcome but it becomes very small. I do think there's a need for a reset. I wouldn't call it a bailout, I'd call it a restructuring and a re-thinking. For me it's overdue and it's necessary.”