birminghammail--2020-10-05--Karlan Grant to Albion: Striker chase set to go down to the wire

West Brom are looking into a deal that would bring Karlan Grant to the club before the transfer window shuts .
The Huddersfield Town striker scored 19 goals in the Championship last season and appears destined to leave the club having been left out of the Terriers ’ league and cup campaign so far .
Albion are desperate to add a further attacker to their ranks as they look to give themselves the best chance of making an impact back in the top flight , and Grant is high up on their shortlist .
How does the land lie at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter BirminghamLive revealed that Albion had identified Grant as a target back in January .
At that time , Huddersfield weren ’ t pressured into selling and , amid a relegation battle , then boss Danny Cowley was understandably keen to hold onto his talisman .
Albion would eventually turn to Callum Robinson and Kamil Grosicki and the pair would aid Slaven Bilic as the Baggies ’ quest to secure promotion proved fruitful .
That interest doesn ’ t appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Grant continuing to score goals into the second half of the campaign .
“ There are rumours in the papers but there are two or three genuine ones that we would love to happen , ” Bilic said , “ and I am quite positive we will get it over the line , that position .
“ The main thing is the player wants to come and I ’ m expecting us to finish that .
“ Look , I ’ m not going to lie - there are those clichés like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ - so I ’ m respectful to those clubs and I ’ m respectful of the players that are here .
“ The rumours are true - he is one that is on our list .
Very quality player , of course . ''
The striker fits the bill for what Albion are looking to do ; he ’ s a forward who will soon turn 23 , and impressed in a struggling Town side during his previous , fleeting , spell in the top flight .
Grant is a player , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Cedric Kipre and Grady Diangana , who you ’ d imagine still has his best years ahead of him and who would represent an investment in a player with potential re-sale value .
Albion have worked hard in recent windows to bring the average age of the squad down where possible - it currently stands at a smidgen over 26 .
What Corberan has said '' I think the situation with Karlan Grant is the same situation : he continues being in the club with the possibility to move out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently .
`` I think this is one situation that we need to analyse when the market is closed and we 've seen what happens with him .
Of course the contribution of Grant last year was key because he scored a lot of goals that helped the team to take points and to continue in the Championship .
`` I know how important Grant was and the other clubs know that too and that 's why they are interested in a player like him .
`` He 's in the club , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to training with the group and starts to be part of the group it would be great to have his support , but now the situation is the same situation .
We 're in like a standby situation with him to see what his future will be .
`` Now we need to play with the players who are working with us and he 's not been part of the players to prepare for this game . ''
Signing a five-year deal after joining from West Ham United , winger Grady Diangana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top flight in Albion colours .
He posted on social media upon signing : “ Can ’ t wait to pick up where we left off !
@ wba let ’ s go !
!
” Among those to share comments with the winger were teammates Rekeem Harper , Alex Palmer and Kieran Gibbs , while Grant also added : “ Time to shine bro.
” Diangana replied to the striker : “ It ’ s time my brother.
” As you might imagine , many an Albion supporter pleaded with Grant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club ’ s forthcoming top flight adventure .
Grant dropped a hint on social media that he may be about to be on the move .
Forward Grant sparked quite a reaction from Albion supporters on Tuesday evening when he tweeted : “ Always trust the process.
” That post was accompanied with emojis of an hourglass and hands in a sign of prayer , suggesting that Grant was hopeful something may be developing on the horizon .
Reports emerged in September of Grant making clear to the Huddersfield hierarchy of his desire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League dream , amid interest from Albion .
The Daily Mail reported that Grant had grown frustrated of Town 's stance as they held firm on their valuation of the player .
Diangana will without doubt be considered Albion ’ s big money signing of the summer ; the club saw fit to spend a significant portion of their playing budget on him after that successful loan spell last term .
That makes a deal for Grant less straightforward than it otherwise might ’ ve been , though the Baggies remain in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tempt them into parting with their talisman .
A loan deal with a substantial loan fee has been mooted , something Albion would be interested in exploring - that would involve , for argument ’ s sake , Albion signing the player next summer if they remained in the top flight .
At this moment in time , the Terriers aren ’ t understood to be overly keen on the idea of parting with their prized asset on loan and will need coercing into a deal .
Meanwhile , Albion are fielding interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and winger Kamil Grosicki .
If they were to find suitors for any of the above , that would strengthen their budget - and their chances of landing Grant .

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West Brom are looking into a deal that would bring Karlan Grant to the club before the transfer window shuts.
The Huddersfield Town striker scored 19 goals in the Championship last season and appears destined to leave the club having been left out of the Terriers’ league and cup campaign so far.
Albion are desperate to add a further attacker to their ranks as they look to give themselves the best chance of making an impact back in the top flight, and Grant is high up on their shortlist.
How does the land lie at this moment?
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter
The interest
BirminghamLive revealed that Albion had identified Grant as a target back in January. At that time, Huddersfield weren’t pressured into selling and, amid a relegation battle, then boss Danny Cowley was understandably keen to hold onto his talisman.
Albion would eventually turn to Callum Robinson and Kamil Grosicki and the pair would aid Slaven Bilic as the Baggies’ quest to secure promotion proved fruitful.
That interest doesn’t appear to have diminished in the meantime, with Grant continuing to score goals into the second half of the campaign.
What Bilic said
“There are rumours in the papers but there are two or three genuine ones that we would love to happen,” Bilic said, “and I am quite positive we will get it over the line, that position.
“The main thing is the player wants to come and I’m expecting us to finish that.
“Look, I’m not going to lie - there are those clichés like ‘they are other clubs’ players’ - so I’m respectful to those clubs and I’m respectful of the players that are here.
“The rumours are true - he is one that is on our list. Very quality player, of course."
Grant’s profile
The striker fits the bill for what Albion are looking to do; he’s a forward who will soon turn 23, and impressed in a struggling Town side during his previous, fleeting, spell in the top flight.
Grant is a player, much like the already recruited Matheus Pereira, Cedric Kipre and Grady Diangana, who you’d imagine still has his best years ahead of him and who would represent an investment in a player with potential re-sale value.
Albion have worked hard in recent windows to bring the average age of the squad down where possible - it currently stands at a smidgen over 26.
What Corberan has said
"I think the situation with Karlan Grant is the same situation: he continues being in the club with the possibility to move out of the club," Town boss Corberan said recently.
"I think this is one situation that we need to analyse when the market is closed and we've seen what happens with him. Of course the contribution of Grant last year was key because he scored a lot of goals that helped the team to take points and to continue in the Championship.
"I know how important Grant was and the other clubs know that too and that's why they are interested in a player like him.
"He's in the club, and if he continues training and comes back to training with the group and starts to be part of the group it would be great to have his support, but now the situation is the same situation. We're in like a standby situation with him to see what his future will be.
"Now we need to play with the players who are working with us and he's not been part of the players to prepare for this game."
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Signing a five-year deal after joining from West Ham United, winger Grady Diangana has hit the ground running in the top flight in Albion colours.
He posted on social media upon signing: “Can’t wait to pick up where we left off! @wba let’s go!!”
Among those to share comments with the winger were teammates Rekeem Harper, Alex Palmer and Kieran Gibbs, while Grant also added: “Time to shine bro.”
Diangana replied to the striker: “It’s time my brother.”
As you might imagine, many an Albion supporter pleaded with Grant to join Diangana at The Hawthorns for the club’s forthcoming top flight adventure.
Hint hint
Grant dropped a hint on social media that he may be about to be on the move.
Forward Grant sparked quite a reaction from Albion supporters on Tuesday evening when he tweeted: “Always trust the process.”
That post was accompanied with emojis of an hourglass and hands in a sign of prayer, suggesting that Grant was hopeful something may be developing on the horizon.
Wanting out
Reports emerged in September of Grant making clear to the Huddersfield hierarchy of his desire to leave the club and pursue his Premier League dream, amid interest from Albion.
The Daily Mail reported that Grant had grown frustrated of Town's stance as they held firm on their valuation of the player.
Chances of a deal
Diangana will without doubt be considered Albion’s big money signing of the summer; the club saw fit to spend a significant portion of their playing budget on him after that successful loan spell last term.
That makes a deal for Grant less straightforward than it otherwise might’ve been, though the Baggies remain in contact with Town as they look to tempt them into parting with their talisman.
A loan deal with a substantial loan fee has been mooted, something Albion would be interested in exploring - that would involve, for argument’s sake, Albion signing the player next summer if they remained in the top flight.
At this moment in time, the Terriers aren’t understood to be overly keen on the idea of parting with their prized asset on loan and will need coercing into a deal.
Meanwhile, Albion are fielding interest in strikers Kenneth Zohore and Charlie Austin - and winger Kamil Grosicki. If they were to find suitors for any of the above, that would strengthen their budget - and their chances of landing Grant.


birminghammail--2020-10-05--Man may have information about viral video bus attack

Police have issued a picture of a man who may have information about a brutal attack on a teenage bus passenger .
The 16-year-old was kicked in the face and racially abused on the number 79 in West Bromwich , the West Midlands force said .
The furious argument saw a third person floor the culprit and stamp on his head .
Footage of the attack was being studied by officers after it was published online .
The incident happened at around 5.40pm on Thursday , October 1 , and appeared to have involved a dispute over the victim not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a man can be heard saying : `` All I ’ m saying is put your mask on !
I ’ m not being racist but the virus is more common in black and asians .
Put your f***ing mask on.
” The teenage girl responds before a woman screams : `` Why do I have to come on the bus and put up with you sitting next to us with no mask on ? ''
As the row escalates , a woman shouts at the teenager : `` If you were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ f**k out . ''
Eventually , other passengers demand the couple leave the bus .
As the pair walk off , a man turns and kicks the teenage girl in her face .
Another passenger intervenes , shouting : `` What are you doing you piece of s**t. I will f***ing murder you . ''
The passenger forcefully throws the man onto the floor of the bus so he falls flat on his face .
The passenger then stamps on the man ’ s head .
West Midlands Police appealed for witnesses or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speaking to the girl .
A spokesman said : `` We want to speak to this man after a teen was racially abused and attacked on a bus in Hill Top , West Bromwich .
`` An argument broke out on the 79 bus in Moxley at around 5.40pm on October 1 , before a fellow passenger racially abused the 16-year-old and kicked her .
`` He was then thrown to the ground by another passenger , who then stamped on his head .
`` We have spoken to the girl , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been shared on social media .
`` We take racially aggravated crimes extremely seriously , and our enquiries continue . ''
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with the force by calling 101 , quoting crime reference number 20SW/240154T/20 .

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Police have issued a picture of a man who may have information about a brutal attack on a teenage bus passenger.
The 16-year-old was kicked in the face and racially abused on the number 79 in West Bromwich, the West Midlands force said.
The furious argument saw a third person floor the culprit and stamp on his head. Footage of the attack was being studied by officers after it was published online.
The incident happened at around 5.40pm on Thursday, October 1, and appeared to have involved a dispute over the victim not wearing a mask.
In the footage, a man can be heard saying: "All I’m saying is put your mask on! I’m not being racist but the virus is more common in black and asians. Put your f***ing mask on.”
The teenage girl responds before a woman screams: "Why do I have to come on the bus and put up with you sitting next to us with no mask on?"
As the row escalates, a woman shouts at the teenager: "If you weren't 16 I would knock you the f**k out."
(Image: WMP)
Eventually, other passengers demand the couple leave the bus.
As the pair walk off, a man turns and kicks the teenage girl in her face.
Another passenger intervenes, shouting: "What are you doing you piece of s**t. I will f***ing murder you."
The passenger forcefully throws the man onto the floor of the bus so he falls flat on his face.
The passenger then stamps on the man’s head.
West Midlands Police appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward after speaking to the girl.
A spokesman said: "We want to speak to this man after a teen was racially abused and attacked on a bus in Hill Top, West Bromwich.
"An argument broke out on the 79 bus in Moxley at around 5.40pm on October 1, before a fellow passenger racially abused the 16-year-old and kicked her.
"He was then thrown to the ground by another passenger, who then stamped on his head.
"We have spoken to the girl, and are examining mobile phone footage which has been shared on social media.
"We take racially aggravated crimes extremely seriously, and our enquiries continue."
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with the force by calling 101, quoting crime reference number 20SW/240154T/20.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-10-05--Aston Villa hit back at Liverpool legend Graeme Souness over 'long grass' claim

Aston Villa have taken aim at Liverpool legend Graeme Souness over his claim that Villa Park ground staff intentionally left the grass long for last night 's 7-2 defeat of Liverpool .
Villa recorded a historic Premier League victory when they humiliated Jurgen Klopp 's Premier League champions in B6 .
Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick , Jack Grealish grabbed a brace while John McGinn and Ross Barkley were also on target for Dean Smith 's side .
Souness , a pundit for Sky Sports , watched his beloved Liverpool go into the half-time break 4-1 down before shipping three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sign up for our inside Villa 's transfer window special newsletter It 's been quite a transfer window for Aston Villa .
After biding their time , Matty Cash got the ball rolling with his move from Nottingham Forest .
Then came Ollie Watkins , Emi Martinez and Bertrand Traore .
Ross Barkley 's loan deal from Chelsea only added to Dean Smith 's delight as Villa went from strength .
Now we 're going to tell you the story of how and why it happened , as well as what it all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Villa correspondent Ashley Preece will be telling you the inside story of the club 's dream transfer window - and you can read it first .
Who made the decisions ?
How did deals happen and what it means for the club financially ?
All you have to do is click here and select the Aston Villa newsletter option to find out , or you can fill in the sign up form at the top of this page .
It 's that easy .
The newsletter special will land in your inbox @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on target twice for the Reds but his goals were merely consolations as Villa continued to run riot .
Instead of praising Villa , Souness decided to offer what seemed to be an excuse for Liverpool 's poor play .
Speaking on Sky after the match , he said : `` I think Villa , it ’ s the same for both teams , but I think they ’ ve left the grass longer than normal , to slow Liverpool down .
`` I did say it ’ s the same for both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want short grass for a fast pitch , it doesn ’ t look like a fast pitch for me . ''
His comments drew condemnation from Villa hero Gabriel Agbonlahor , who called Souness 'absolutely ridiculous ' and joked that the floodlights would be blamed next .
And Villa appear to have hit back themselves , posting a nine-minute highlights package of the match titled : LONG GRASS | Amazing Goals , Skills & Assists | 2020/21 ( HD ) .
The title is a play on YouTube compilations of players .

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Aston Villa have taken aim at Liverpool legend Graeme Souness over his claim that Villa Park ground staff intentionally left the grass long for last night's 7-2 defeat of Liverpool.
Villa recorded a historic Premier League victory when they humiliated Jurgen Klopp's Premier League champions in B6.
Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick, Jack Grealish grabbed a brace while John McGinn and Ross Barkley were also on target for Dean Smith's side.
Souness, a pundit for Sky Sports, watched his beloved Liverpool go into the half-time break 4-1 down before shipping three more goals in the second half.
Sign up for our Dean Smith special newsletter It's been a hectic two years for Villa under Dean Smith. Barren spells, goal glory, promotion triumphs, cup finals, the threat of relegation, survival on the last day, progressive football and big dreams. It's a time for reflection, so we're penning a special on Villa's man in charge, who has overseen on the of the most electric and dynamic periods of the club's history. You won't want to miss it. How do I sign up? All you have to do is click here and select the Aston Villa newsletter option to find out, or you can fill in the sign up form at the top of this page. It's that easy.
Mohamed Salah was on target twice for the Reds but his goals were merely consolations as Villa continued to run riot.
Instead of praising Villa, Souness decided to offer what seemed to be an excuse for Liverpool's poor play.
Speaking on Sky after the match, he said: "I think Villa, it’s the same for both teams, but I think they’ve left the grass longer than normal, to slow Liverpool down.
"I did say it’s the same for both teams. All of the top players want short grass for a fast pitch, it doesn’t look like a fast pitch for me."
His comments drew condemnation from Villa hero Gabriel Agbonlahor, who called Souness 'absolutely ridiculous' and joked that the floodlights would be blamed next.
And Villa appear to have hit back themselves, posting a nine-minute highlights package of the match titled: LONG GRASS | Amazing Goals, Skills & Assists | 2020/21 (HD).
The title is a play on YouTube compilations of players.


birminghammail--2020-10-05--Multi-million pound plan to bring medical university to Dudley in the pipeline

Exciting multi-million pound plans to build a ‘ university park ’ in Dudley town centre are in the pipeline .
Worcester University has been appointed to lead the way on a project to create a new campus at Castle Hill .
It will be located alongside the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology and the very light rail innovation centre .
Dudley council has announced plans to submit a bid for £25million , towards the cost of the work , to the government ’ s Towns Fund in January 2021 .
Councillor Patrick Harley , leader of Dudley Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delighted the University of Worcester will be working to develop our bid for to deliver a further university presence in Dudley .
If our bid to the Towns Fund is successful , the money will allow us to protect and promote employment by expanding the skills opportunities for adults and young people .
`` The economic shock of Covid has made this investment more needed than ever as we look to provide opportunities in sectors with rising job vacancies , which need higher skilled workers . ''
The University of Worcester courses will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ professions including Nursing , Midwifery , Paramedics and related health occupations .
Worcester is the most shortlisted of all UK universities for the 2020 Student Nursing Times Awards , including a nomination for Pre-registration Nurse Education Provider of the Year , for which Worcester is shortlisted for the sixth time , the most of any University ever .
Professor David Green CBE , the University of Worcester ’ s Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive , said : `` We are delighted to have been chosen to partner with Dudley College , Council and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ University Centre in Dudley .
With our health partners , we look forward to offering many , many first class opportunities in Dudley to gain a top quality health professional qualification in nursing , midwifery , paramedicine and more .
`` We will also be working with our partners in education , business and sport in particular to create opportunities at the University Centre to earn qualifications in these vital sectors in which skilled , professionals are badly needed .
`` The Towns Fund Board decision to invest in a Higher Education Centre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the University of Worcester we will do all we can to help turn this brilliant decision into a thriving , dynamic , truly valuable success for the people of Dudley , the wider Black Country and beyond . ''
The University of Worcester is held in high regard nationally , and earlier this month was shortlisted for University of the year for the second year running in the prestigious Times Higher Awards .
Ranked in the top 10 of universities across the UK to best reflect society in terms of socio-economic class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the UK University of the Year for the second year running in the annual Social Mobility Awards .
Andrew Lovett , Chair of Dudley Towns Fund Board , which oversaw the appointment on behalf of the council , added : '' On behalf of the board I now welcome the opportunity to move this proposal forward at pace .
The University of Worcester is established as a sector leader but more importantly is already a long-standing contributor to the skilled workforce in Dudley and the wider West Midlands , working with Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment to the town and the shared vision of the university centre as a place of excellence , that contributes to the well-being of individuals and the broader community shone through in their submission to be the chosen Higher education institution .
Collectively we can now work to make the development of a university for Dudley a reality . ''

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Exciting multi-million pound plans to build a ‘university park’ in Dudley town centre are in the pipeline.
Worcester University has been appointed to lead the way on a project to create a new campus at Castle Hill.
It will be located alongside the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology and the very light rail innovation centre.
Dudley council has announced plans to submit a bid for £25million, towards the cost of the work, to the government’s Towns Fund in January 2021.
(Image: Anthony Devlin/PA Wire)
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: "I’m delighted the University of Worcester will be working to develop our bid for to deliver a further university presence in Dudley. If our bid to the Towns Fund is successful, the money will allow us to protect and promote employment by expanding the skills opportunities for adults and young people.
"The economic shock of Covid has made this investment more needed than ever as we look to provide opportunities in sectors with rising job vacancies, which need higher skilled workers."
The University of Worcester courses will be centred around health care and allied professions including Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedics and related health occupations.
Worcester is the most shortlisted of all UK universities for the 2020 Student Nursing Times Awards, including a nomination for Pre-registration Nurse Education Provider of the Year, for which Worcester is shortlisted for the sixth time, the most of any University ever.
Professor David Green CBE, the University of Worcester’s Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted to have been chosen to partner with Dudley College, Council and Towns Fund Board to develop a thriving University Centre in Dudley. With our health partners, we look forward to offering many, many first class opportunities in Dudley to gain a top quality health professional qualification in nursing, midwifery, paramedicine and more.
"We will also be working with our partners in education, business and sport in particular to create opportunities at the University Centre to earn qualifications in these vital sectors in which skilled, professionals are badly needed.
"The Towns Fund Board decision to invest in a Higher Education Centre is Dudley is wise and far-sighted. At the University of Worcester we will do all we can to help turn this brilliant decision into a thriving, dynamic, truly valuable success for the people of Dudley, the wider Black Country and beyond."
The University of Worcester is held in high regard nationally, and earlier this month was shortlisted for University of the year for the second year running in the prestigious Times Higher Awards. Ranked in the top 10 of universities across the UK to best reflect society in terms of socio-economic class, the University is also a finalist for the UK University of the Year for the second year running in the annual Social Mobility Awards.
Andrew Lovett, Chair of Dudley Towns Fund Board, which oversaw the appointment on behalf of the council, added:"On behalf of the board I now welcome the opportunity to move this proposal forward at pace. The University of Worcester is established as a sector leader but more importantly is already a long-standing contributor to the skilled workforce in Dudley and the wider West Midlands, working with Health Trusts across the region.
"Their commitment to the town and the shared vision of the university centre as a place of excellence, that contributes to the well-being of individuals and the broader community shone through in their submission to be the chosen Higher education institution. Collectively we can now work to make the development of a university for Dudley a reality."


birminghammail--2020-10-05--How Blues could line up after deadline day - and the next one

Birmingham City have overhauled their squad to an eye-opening degree during the transfer window .
Aitor Karanka ’ s first team group have been bolstered by the arrival of established Championship players like Adam Clayton and George Friend .
The goalkeeping department has been completely overhauled with the signing of Neil Etheridge and Andres Prieto , while Scott Hogan , Jonathan Leko and Jon Toral have been brought in to add goals .
And of course there ’ s been the now customary dip into the Spanish market with Mikel San Jose and Ivan Sanchez also joining .
As deadline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s also the prospect of A League sensation Riley McGree joining the fun .
All of which has given Karanka a huge number of selection options .
Here ’ s how Blues could line up if McGree joins .
Neil Etheridge is an obvious pick , Blues have a player who is potentially their best goalkeeper since Darren Randolph - and maybe even further back .
Harlee Dean has been transformed under Karanka , Friend is the embodiment a leader , while Maxime Colin and Kristian Pedersen have so much potential .
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Aitor Karanka has been busy in the transfer market but there is still time for more before the window closes on Monday at 11pm .
You can keep up to date with all the rumours and done deals in our daily Birmingham City bulletin .
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Gary Gardner deserves more game time because he ’ s the most offensive minded of Blues ’ central midfielders .
But San Jose hasn ’ t been brought in to watch .
Adam Clayton and Ivan Sunjic are all equally meritorious .
The only combination I don ’ t see playing too often together would be the thirtysomething duo of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes 4-2-3-1 , as he most surely will , he will hope to get Scott Hogan up and running as the one up top .
His pace will stop opponents defending so high against Blues .
Ivan Sanchez and Jeremie Bela , on his day , offer a decent supply line from the wings , Sanchez in particular has been very impressive so far this season .
The No .
10 spot could go to the lavishly talented McGree , Toral or Dan Crowley - who will surely get his opportunities this season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham City are next in action against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday , October 17 .

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Birmingham City have overhauled their squad to an eye-opening degree during the transfer window.
Aitor Karanka ’s first team group have been bolstered by the arrival of established Championship players like Adam Clayton and George Friend.
The goalkeeping department has been completely overhauled with the signing of Neil Etheridge and Andres Prieto, while Scott Hogan, Jonathan Leko and Jon Toral have been brought in to add goals.
And of course there’s been the now customary dip into the Spanish market with Mikel San Jose and Ivan Sanchez also joining.
As deadline day draws to a close there’s also the prospect of A League sensation Riley McGree joining the fun.
All of which has given Karanka a huge number of selection options.
Here’s how Blues could line up if McGree joins.
BLUES (4-2-3-1): Etheridge; Colin, Dean, Friend, Pedersen; San Jose, Sunjic; Sanchez, McGree, Bela; Hogan.
Goalkeeper/Defence
Neil Etheridge is an obvious pick, Blues have a player who is potentially their best goalkeeper since Darren Randolph - and maybe even further back. Harlee Dean has been transformed under Karanka, Friend is the embodiment a leader, while Maxime Colin and Kristian Pedersen have so much potential.
Sign up to our newsletter for Birmingham City transfer news before deadline day Why should you sign up? Aitor Karanka has been busy in the transfer market but there is still time for more before the window closes on Monday at 11pm. You can keep up to date with all the rumours and done deals in our daily Birmingham City bulletin. We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Midfield
Pick your horse for your course. Gary Gardner deserves more game time because he’s the most offensive minded of Blues’ central midfielders. But San Jose hasn’t been brought in to watch. Adam Clayton and Ivan Sunjic are all equally meritorious. The only combination I don’t see playing too often together would be the thirtysomething duo of San Jose and Clayton.
Attack
If Karanka goes 4-2-3-1, as he most surely will, he will hope to get Scott Hogan up and running as the one up top. His pace will stop opponents defending so high against Blues.
Ivan Sanchez and Jeremie Bela, on his day, offer a decent supply line from the wings, Sanchez in particular has been very impressive so far this season.
The No. 10 spot could go to the lavishly talented McGree, Toral or Dan Crowley - who will surely get his opportunities this season.
You can pick your team here
Birmingham City are next in action against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, October 17.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Meet Married At First Sight star David - the Solihull divorcee with two kids

Channel 4 viewers welcomed back Married At First Sight tonight ( October 6 ) - and were faced with a Solihull man .
Four singles will marry a total stranger , who they ’ ll meet on their wedding day , as part of the show , which started again on Tuesday evening .
After the Great British Bake Off aired , viewers were introduced to the first couple .
The pair will make history as the oldest couple in the show 's lifespan .
David is a sales director , and he and Shareen are joined in the line-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Llanelli , grew up in South Africa , and told Lorraine Kelly on her self-titled ITV1 daytime TV show : “ I ’ ve never been married , so to marry a stranger , I was just thinking who would do such a crazy thing ?
” “ But when I saw it advertised , I just knew that this was a mechanism by using three experts in the process to meet my unconditional love.
” He enjoyed a marriage for 10 years and has two older teenage children with his previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m actually treating this more seriously , if anything , than my first marriage .
“ I ’ m a little bit more grown up .
`` I ’ ve had a dozen years to reflect on why the marriage didn ’ t work , and areas where I probably didn ’ t help that in the sense of communication .
“ I think I ’ m a lot more relaxed now — I don ’ t sweat the small stuff any more .
“ I knew how many thousands of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never won anything in my life .
`` I ’ m never going to win the Lottery , so when they called I thought : ‘ Wow , that doesn ’ t happen to me very often ! '
” Like Shareen , he has two older teenager children who may also have an opinion about their father ’ s decision to re-marry in such an unorthodox manner .
Married At First Sight UK 2020 starts on Channel 4 on Tuesday , October 6 at 9.30pm

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Channel 4 viewers welcomed back Married At First Sight tonight (October 6) - and were faced with a Solihull man.
Four singles will marry a total stranger, who they’ll meet on their wedding day, as part of the show, which started again on Tuesday evening.
After the Great British Bake Off aired, viewers were introduced to the first couple.
David, aged 56, from Solihull, is marrying Shareen, aged 47.
The pair will make history as the oldest couple in the show's lifespan.
David is a sales director, and he and Shareen are joined in the line-up by Michelle and Owen.
Shareen, from Llanelli, grew up in South Africa, and told Lorraine Kelly on her self-titled ITV1 daytime TV show: “I’ve never been married, so to marry a stranger, I was just thinking who would do such a crazy thing?”
“But when I saw it advertised, I just knew that this was a mechanism by using three experts in the process to meet my unconditional love.”
David, meanwhile, was previously married.
He enjoyed a marriage for 10 years and has two older teenage children with his previous partner, and admitted: “I’m actually treating this more seriously, if anything, than my first marriage.
“I’m a little bit more grown up.
"I’ve had a dozen years to reflect on why the marriage didn’t work, and areas where I probably didn’t help that in the sense of communication.
“I think I’m a lot more relaxed now — I don’t sweat the small stuff any more.
“I knew how many thousands of people had applied.
"I’ve never won anything in my life.
"I’m never going to win the Lottery, so when they called I thought: ‘Wow, that doesn’t happen to me very often!'”
Like Shareen, he has two older teenager children who may also have an opinion about their father’s decision to re-marry in such an unorthodox manner.
Married At First Sight UK 2020 starts on Channel 4 on Tuesday, October 6 at 9.30pm


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Great British Bake Off star eliminated after Worcestershire tribute

Rowan has become the third amateur baker to be eliminated from the Great British Bake Off .
The 55-year old from Worcestershire failed to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith during Tuesday 's bread-themed episode .
`` I 've had a wonderful time .
It is exhausting , but very rewarding , '' he said as he left the tent .
He was the third person to leave the Channel 4 show , after 50-year-old accountant Mak and 27-year-old diagnostic radiographer Loriea were axed in previous weeks .
The signature challenge saw the bakers try their hand at two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one savoury , with an accompanying butter .
Marc , 51 , a bronze resin sculptor from Cornwall , suffered a mishap with his buttermilk , spraying it over his workstation and himself .
`` I 'm alright .
I 'm carrying on , '' he told co-hosts Noel Fielding and Matt Lucas .
Despite this , Marc impressed the judges , with Leith describing his savoury loaf as `` delicious '' .
After an unsuccessful start to the competition , Hermine , 39 , an accountant from London , won the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ savoury salmon and sweet boozy fruit breads .
Hollywood told her : `` Do you know what I love ?
I love the fact I have never had them before and that 's what Bake Off is all about . ''
In the technical challenge , the contestants crafted six rainbow coloured bagels , featuring five different colours - a tribute to the NHS .
The rainbow has become a symbol of hope during the pandemic , with children making pictures of them to stick to their windows .
Rowan , 55 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in last , while Marc took second and retired living team leader Linda , 61 , took first .
For the showstopper , the contestants were challenged to create a large decorative bread plaque in the style of a traditional harvest festival sheaf .
It needed to display the one thing they were most grateful for , with choices including a Worcester pear tree and a beachside home .
Hermine 's depiction of her motorway journey to France , constructed of brioche and focaccia , failed to impress Hollywood on taste .
Laura @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks in a nod to the West End .
However , her bake failed to rise and Hollywood labelled it `` raw '' .
Marc crafted a Buddhist dharma wheel after a book on meditation helped his mental recovery after losing his leg in a motorcycle accident in 2016 .
Leith described it as `` surprising and pretty and quite neat , and certainly colourful '' .
Production of the 11th series was initially delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic , but filming finished near the end of August .
The bakers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ formed a `` bubble '' in Down Hall Hotel near Bishop 's Stortford , Hertfordshire , throughout the duration of filming , after being tested for the virus and self-isolating .

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Rowan has become the third amateur baker to be eliminated from the Great British Bake Off.
The 55-year old from Worcestershire failed to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith during Tuesday's bread-themed episode.
"I've had a wonderful time. It is exhausting, but very rewarding," he said as he left the tent.
He was the third person to leave the Channel 4 show, after 50-year-old accountant Mak and 27-year-old diagnostic radiographer Loriea were axed in previous weeks.
The signature challenge saw the bakers try their hand at two soda bread loaves, one sweet and one savoury, with an accompanying butter.
Marc, 51, a bronze resin sculptor from Cornwall, suffered a mishap with his buttermilk, spraying it over his workstation and himself.
"I'm alright. I'm carrying on," he told co-hosts Noel Fielding and Matt Lucas.
Despite this, Marc impressed the judges, with Leith describing his savoury loaf as "delicious".
After an unsuccessful start to the competition, Hermine, 39, an accountant from London, won the second Hollywood handshake of the series for her savoury salmon and sweet boozy fruit breads.
Hollywood told her: "Do you know what I love? I love the fact I have never had them before and that's what Bake Off is all about."
In the technical challenge, the contestants crafted six rainbow coloured bagels, featuring five different colours - a tribute to the NHS.
The rainbow has become a symbol of hope during the pandemic, with children making pictures of them to stick to their windows.
Rowan, 55, a music teacher from Worcestershire, placed in last, while Marc took second and retired living team leader Linda, 61, took first.
For the showstopper, the contestants were challenged to create a large decorative bread plaque in the style of a traditional harvest festival sheaf.
It needed to display the one thing they were most grateful for, with choices including a Worcester pear tree and a beachside home.
(Image: Mark Bourdillon/ Love Productions)
Hermine's depiction of her motorway journey to France, constructed of brioche and focaccia, failed to impress Hollywood on taste.
Laura's musicals-inspired bake featured comedy and tragedy masks in a nod to the West End.
However, her bake failed to rise and Hollywood labelled it "raw".
Marc crafted a Buddhist dharma wheel after a book on meditation helped his mental recovery after losing his leg in a motorcycle accident in 2016.
Leith described it as "surprising and pretty and quite neat, and certainly colourful".
Production of the 11th series was initially delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic, but filming finished near the end of August.
The bakers, presenters and others working on the programme formed a "bubble" in Down Hall Hotel near Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, throughout the duration of filming, after being tested for the virus and self-isolating.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Eddie Van Halen dies aged 65 after cancer battle

Revered rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen has died at the age of 65 following a battle with cancer , his son has said .
Van Halen was part of the classic Van Halen line-up alongside his brother Alex , Michael Anthony on bass and David Lee Roth singing .
The band was hugely successful and has sold more than 80 million records worldwide .
In a statement shared on Twitter , Van Halen 's son , Wolfgang , said his father died on Tuesday .
He said : `` I ca n't believe I 'm having to write this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Halen , has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning .
`` He was the best father I could ever ask for .
Every moment I 've shared with him on and off stage was a gift .
`` My heart is broken and I do n't think I 'll ever fully recover from this loss . ''
Black Sabbath 's Geezer Butler described Van Halen as `` a true gent and true genius '' .
`` Just when I thought 2020 could n't get any worse , I hear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he tweeted .
`` So shocking - One of the nicest , down to Earth men I have ever met and toured with .
A true gent and true genius .
RIP .
So sad .
Thoughts go out to his brother Alex , and his family . ''
Wolfgang , who became Van Halen 's bassist , added : `` I love you so much , Pop . ''
Van Halen , who fought alcoholism , had battled health issues .
He first received treatment for tongue cancer in 2000 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his tongue .
He was declared cancer-free in 2002 .
It was reported last year that Van Halen had been privately battling throat cancer for five years .
Tributes were paid to the guitarist following news of his death .
Tommy Thayer , lead guitarist for Kiss , said he is `` so sad to hear this '' .

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Revered rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen has died at the age of 65 following a battle with cancer, his son has said.
Van Halen was part of the classic Van Halen line-up alongside his brother Alex, Michael Anthony on bass and David Lee Roth singing.
(Image: Greg Allen/Invision/AP)
The band was hugely successful and has sold more than 80 million records worldwide.
In a statement shared on Twitter, Van Halen's son, Wolfgang, said his father died on Tuesday.
He said: "I can't believe I'm having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning.
"He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I've shared with him on and off stage was a gift.
"My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss."
Black Sabbath's Geezer Butler described Van Halen as "a true gent and true genius".
"Just when I thought 2020 couldn't get any worse, I hear Eddie Van Halen has passed," he tweeted.
"So shocking - One of the nicest, down to Earth men I have ever met and toured with. A true gent and true genius. RIP. So sad. Thoughts go out to his brother Alex, and his family."
Wolfgang, who became Van Halen's bassist, added: "I love you so much, Pop."
Van Halen, who fought alcoholism, had battled health issues. He first received treatment for tongue cancer in 2000 and the subsequent surgery removed about a third of his tongue.
He was declared cancer-free in 2002. It was reported last year that Van Halen had been privately battling throat cancer for five years.
Tributes were paid to the guitarist following news of his death.
Tommy Thayer, lead guitarist for Kiss, said he is "so sad to hear this".


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Police appeal to identify man critically injured in attack near Bullring

Police have issued an urgent appeal to the identity a man left fighting for his life after a street brawl near the Bullring .
The man , who remains critically ill in hospital , suffered a severe head injury in an attack on Upper Dean Street late on Monday , October 5 .
But , almost 24 hours on from the incident , his identity is still unknown .
He is described as black , and aged 40 to 50 .
Police say they urgently need to identify him in order to inform his family and friends .
Police were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ men causing trouble in a convenience shop at around 10.10pm .
Moments later , a man was punched and suffered a severe head injury .
Despite extensive enquiries , police say , they have not been able to identify him .
They are urging anyone who might know him to get in touch as soon as possible .
After speaking to witnesses and carrying out CCTV enquires , police believe there may have been six to eight people who ran off after the attack through the market area in the direction of St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from force CID , said : “ At this stage the motive of the attack is unclear .
We ’ re working hard to determine what happened and who was responsible .
I ’ d urge anyone with any information who hasn ’ t already spoken to us , to do so as soon as possible .
“ We also need to know who the seriously injured man is so we can inform his family and friends .
We understand reading this may be distressing , but if you think you know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touch . ''
Anyone with information should contact police via Live Chat on our website or call 101 quoting log number 4475 of 5 October .
The violent attack has sparked calls for increased police patrols and 24-hour CCTV monitoring , with one shop owner claiming there are incidents in the area 'every day ' .
The man , who did n't want to be named , told BirminghamLive : `` Round here we should have 24 hour CCTV because we have incidents every day Every day I come here there is some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The attack last night really doesn ’ t surprise me because sometimes when things like that take place there ’ s nobody around here to stop it .
“ We can ’ t be the policemen , we are just businessmen . ''

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Police have issued an urgent appeal to the identity a man left fighting for his life after a street brawl near the Bullring.
The man, who remains critically ill in hospital, suffered a severe head injury in an attack on Upper Dean Street late on Monday, October 5.
But, almost 24 hours on from the incident, his identity is still unknown.
He is described as black, and aged 40 to 50. Police say they urgently need to identify him in order to inform his family and friends.
Police were called to the scene following reports of men causing trouble in a convenience shop at around 10.10pm.
(Image: Birmingham Mail /Darren Quinton)
Moments later, a man was punched and suffered a severe head injury.
Despite extensive enquiries, police say, they have not been able to identify him. They are urging anyone who might know him to get in touch as soon as possible.
After speaking to witnesses and carrying out CCTV enquires, police believe there may have been six to eight people who ran off after the attack through the market area in the direction of St Martins Church.
Detective Inspector Richard Marsh, from force CID, said: “At this stage the motive of the attack is unclear. We’re working hard to determine what happened and who was responsible. I’d urge anyone with any information who hasn’t already spoken to us, to do so as soon as possible.
(Image: Darren Quinton)
“We also need to know who the seriously injured man is so we can inform his family and friends. We understand reading this may be distressing, but if you think you know who it is please do get in touch."
Anyone with information should contact police via Live Chat on our website or call 101 quoting log number 4475 of 5 October.
The violent attack has sparked calls for increased police patrols and 24-hour CCTV monitoring, with one shop owner claiming there are incidents in the area 'every day'.
The man, who didn't want to be named, told BirminghamLive: "Round here we should have 24 hour CCTV because we have incidents every day Every day I come here there is some incident taking place - some misdemeanor.
“The attack last night really doesn’t surprise me because sometimes when things like that take place there’s nobody around here to stop it.
“We can’t be the policemen, we are just businessmen."


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Birmingham 2022 chief's statement over Board member resignation

Birmingham 2022 's chairman John Crabtree has issued a statement `` thanking '' departing Board member Jonathan Browning for his service after he dramatically quit , citing his growing frustration with the leadership .
Regional business leader and ex GB Cycling chief Browning cited the `` poor functioning of the Board '' as a reason for quitting his role as a non-executive director .
He blasted the Board 's `` failure to acknowledge the magnitude of risks “ facing the £800m Games , still on course to take place in summer 2022 .
This evening 's response from the organisation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I would like to thank Jonathan ( Browning ) for his contribution to the Birmingham 2022 board over the past two years .
`` Despite the uncertain times we are all facing amidst the global pandemic , we remain resolute in our commitment to keep the Birmingham 2022 Games on track .
We are on schedule and on budget and are already beginning to deliver significant benefits for the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands . ''
We have contacted various organisations connected with the Games project - including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Birmingham City Council and the Commonwealth Games Federation - to comment on the departure and the criticisms made .
So far none have responded .
Mr Browning was one of four current non-executive directors who sit on the Board of Birmingham 2022 .
All appointed by the Culture Minister - currently Oliver Dowden - their role is to bring their experience , ideas and critical eye to bear on the way decisions are made .
The others are disabled swimmer Elli Simmonds , former chief of staff to Theresa May , Nick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lyndsey Jackson .
Mr Browning was appointed in September 2018 , and also chaired the organising committee 's contract approval committee .
He had chaired Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership for six years , standing down in April ; and was a board member of the West Midlands Combined Authority .
In his letter of resignation , leaked earlier today , he said : “ This has not been an easy decision but results from a growing frustration at the poor functioning of the Organising Committee board .
“ I feel there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a failure to acknowledge the magnitude of risks facing the Games in these uncertain and volatile times .
“ This , I believe , is leading to a culture where overpromising and under-delivering appears to be acceptable .
In contrast , the strongest organisations raise issues openly and as early as possible .
Get all the latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article .
There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store '' Unless addressed quickly , this culture risks major problems as the Games draw closer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the experience of the Athletes Village where the pre-COVID shortcomings of the project are still not openly acknowledged .
“ There are many good people involved with Birmingham 2022 , the Games still represent a great opportunity for the city and the West Midlands .
However , this will be only be realised if the board faces up to today ’ s realities , the full range of future uncertainties and makes the necessary tough choices.
” The Games leadership has come under fire this year for representation after BirminghamLive highlighted the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Earlier this year Birmingham 2022 marked two years to go til the Games , and has since unveiled new venues for basketball and beach volleyball on the former Smithfield site in the middle of Birmingham , and road cycling in Wolverhampton and Warwick .
But it has also had to stomach the blow of learning the bespoke athletes ' village planned for Perry Barr , led by Birmingham City Council , would not be ready in time , and instead had to come up with alternative accommodation plans .

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Birmingham 2022's chairman John Crabtree has issued a statement "thanking" departing Board member Jonathan Browning for his service after he dramatically quit, citing his growing frustration with the leadership.
Regional business leader and ex GB Cycling chief Browning cited the "poor functioning of the Board" as a reason for quitting his role as a non-executive director.
He blasted the Board's "failure to acknowledge the magnitude of risks“ facing the £800m Games, still on course to take place in summer 2022.
This evening's response from the organisation was concise. It reads in full: "I would like to thank Jonathan (Browning) for his contribution to the Birmingham 2022 board over the past two years.
"Despite the uncertain times we are all facing amidst the global pandemic, we remain resolute in our commitment to keep the Birmingham 2022 Games on track. We are on schedule and on budget and are already beginning to deliver significant benefits for the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands."
We have contacted various organisations connected with the Games project - including the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Birmingham City Council and the Commonwealth Games Federation - to comment on the departure and the criticisms made. So far none have responded.
Mr Browning was one of four current non-executive directors who sit on the Board of Birmingham 2022. All appointed by the Culture Minister - currently Oliver Dowden - their role is to bring their experience, ideas and critical eye to bear on the way decisions are made.
The others are disabled swimmer Elli Simmonds, former chief of staff to Theresa May, Nick Timothy, and Edinburgh Fringe deputy director Lyndsey Jackson.
Mr Browning was appointed in September 2018, and also chaired the organising committee's contract approval committee.
He had chaired Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership for six years, standing down in April; and was a board member of the West Midlands Combined Authority.
In his letter of resignation, leaked earlier today, he said: “This has not been an easy decision but results from a growing frustration at the poor functioning of the Organising Committee board.
“I feel there has been a lack of transparency and a failure to acknowledge the magnitude of risks facing the Games in these uncertain and volatile times.
“This, I believe, is leading to a culture where overpromising and under-delivering appears to be acceptable. In contrast, the strongest organisations raise issues openly and as early as possible.
"Unless addressed quickly, this culture risks major problems as the Games draw closer. We can’t afford to repeat the experience of the Athletes Village where the pre-COVID shortcomings of the project are still not openly acknowledged.
“There are many good people involved with Birmingham 2022, the Games still represent a great opportunity for the city and the West Midlands. However, this will be only be realised if the board faces up to today’s realities, the full range of future uncertainties and makes the necessary tough choices.”
The Games leadership has come under fire this year for representation after BirminghamLive highlighted the lack of diversity on the board of directors.
Earlier this year Birmingham 2022 marked two years to go til the Games, and has since unveiled new venues for basketball and beach volleyball on the former Smithfield site in the middle of Birmingham, and road cycling in Wolverhampton and Warwick.
But it has also had to stomach the blow of learning the bespoke athletes' village planned for Perry Barr, led by Birmingham City Council, would not be ready in time, and instead had to come up with alternative accommodation plans.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--The European overhaul behind Aston Villa's table-topping teenagers

Aston Villa 's brilliant transfer window has been heralded as one of the best in the Premier League - yet the club have added exciting additions to its academy .
Academy supremo Mark Harrison has been busy throughout the summer orchestrating deals to improve Villa 's under-18s with the help from sporting director Johan Lange .
In total , Villa have signed seven new teenagers with five coming in from across Europe .
The club have made real strides over the last few weeks and it was topped off by the capture of highly-talented striker Ruben Shakpoke .
`` He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard work was put in during our recruitment process and I thank everyone for their efforts , '' Harrison said after reaching an agreement with Norwich for the 16-year-old England youth international .
`` We ’ re looking forward to working with Ruben and developing his talents . ''
Harrison , meanwhile , also credited the work and constant backing of Villa 's owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens who , according to Christian Purslow , take a great interest in Villa 's academy setup .
The billionaires rank the conveyor belt of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the first-team as it 's seen as the backbone of success in the long run .
Just look at Jack Grealish , for example .
As well as Shakpoke Villa added Oliwier Zych to their under-18 ranks , an 16-year-old Polish goalkeeper who was previously looked at by Bayern Munich .
On that signing , Harrison said : `` This signing , along with all of our new additions , is the result of a lot of hard work in terms of recruitment and further evidence of the club 's vision to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is backed by Nassef , Wes , Christian and Johan . ''
Staying in Europe and another exciting signing is that of Dutch defensive midfielder Lamare Bogarde , 16 , who was snapped-up from Feyenoord .
The Dutch international scored and assisted on his Villa under-18 debut against Reading recently .
`` He is a player with immense potential and the commitment that will go in to fulfilling that starts now , '' Harrison said of Bogarde , with Villa revealing how they beat several Premier League , Bundesliga and Serie A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Holland was the transfer of centre-back Sil Swinkels from Vitesse Arnhem , a player who 's been an ever-present for Villa 's academy since moving to Bodymoor Heath .
Swinkels was signed on the same day as Ireland youth internationals , Caolan McBride and Aaron O'Reilly who arrived from Glentoran and St Pat 's respectively .
Finally and , arguably the most sought-after signature of the lot , Villa signed Exeter 's youngest-ever player Ben Chrisene who made his Football League debut aged just 15 .
Chrisene has been capped by England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slotted in for Villa at left-back in his outings to date .
A more natural midfielder , Chrisene was courted by Chelsea and Liverpool with the latter said to have dished out VIP treatment to the 16-year-old for a Champions League match at Anfield .
In the end , Villa pulled off what was said to be a major coup , and Harrison said : `` We are delighted to have secured Ben ’ s signature .
He ’ s a very talented youngster who we are very pleased to have at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the owners , the board and the CEO for their support in bringing talent like Ben ’ s to Aston Villa and for their ongoing backing in helping us to work towards our shared vision of a thriving and successful academy . ''
So there you have it , Villa 's revamped under-18s dotted with European internationals who 'll be knocking on the under-23s door in the not too distant future .
Villa 's under-18s are currently top of the Premier League table having won all four of their games this season .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 2-1 win .
Up next they play second-placed Tottenham on October 17 .

Aston Villa's brilliant transfer window has been heralded as one of the best in the Premier League - yet the club have added exciting additions to its academy.
Academy supremo Mark Harrison has been busy throughout the summer orchestrating deals to improve Villa's under-18s with the help from sporting director Johan Lange.
In total, Villa have signed seven new teenagers with five coming in from across Europe. The club have made real strides over the last few weeks and it was topped off by the capture of highly-talented striker Ruben Shakpoke.
"He has joined us after a lot of hard work was put in during our recruitment process and I thank everyone for their efforts," Harrison said after reaching an agreement with Norwich for the 16-year-old England youth international. "We’re looking forward to working with Ruben and developing his talents."
Harrison, meanwhile, also credited the work and constant backing of Villa's owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens who, according to Christian Purslow, take a great interest in Villa's academy setup. The billionaires rank the conveyor belt of talent at Bodymoor Heath just as important as the first-team as it's seen as the backbone of success in the long run. Just look at Jack Grealish, for example.
As well as Shakpoke Villa added Oliwier Zych to their under-18 ranks, an 16-year-old Polish goalkeeper who was previously looked at by Bayern Munich. On that signing, Harrison said: "This signing, along with all of our new additions, is the result of a lot of hard work in terms of recruitment and further evidence of the club's vision to build a long-term player development strategy, which is backed by Nassef, Wes, Christian and Johan."
Staying in Europe and another exciting signing is that of Dutch defensive midfielder Lamare Bogarde, 16, who was snapped-up from Feyenoord. The Dutch international scored and assisted on his Villa under-18 debut against Reading recently.
"He is a player with immense potential and the commitment that will go in to fulfilling that starts now," Harrison said of Bogarde, with Villa revealing how they beat several Premier League, Bundesliga and Serie A clubs to his signature.
Another arrival from Holland was the transfer of centre-back Sil Swinkels from Vitesse Arnhem, a player who's been an ever-present for Villa's academy since moving to Bodymoor Heath. Swinkels was signed on the same day as Ireland youth internationals, Caolan McBride and Aaron O'Reilly who arrived from Glentoran and St Pat's respectively.
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Finally and, arguably the most sought-after signature of the lot, Villa signed Exeter's youngest-ever player Ben Chrisene who made his Football League debut aged just 15. Chrisene has been capped by England at under-15 and under-16 level and has slotted in for Villa at left-back in his outings to date. A more natural midfielder, Chrisene was courted by Chelsea and Liverpool with the latter said to have dished out VIP treatment to the 16-year-old for a Champions League match at Anfield.
In the end, Villa pulled off what was said to be a major coup, and Harrison said: "We are delighted to have secured Ben’s signature. He’s a very talented youngster who we are very pleased to have at the club. I would like to thank the owners, the board and the CEO for their support in bringing talent like Ben’s to Aston Villa and for their ongoing backing in helping us to work towards our shared vision of a thriving and successful academy."
So there you have it, Villa's revamped under-18s dotted with European internationals who'll be knocking on the under-23s door in the not too distant future.
Villa's under-18s are currently top of the Premier League table having won all four of their games this season. Their most-recent victory came against Albion in a 2-1 win. Up next they play second-placed Tottenham on October 17.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--When Villa must register their Premier League squad for 2020/21

Premier League managers now know when they must make a tough decision regarding their respective squads .
Aston Villa boss Dean Smith will be delighted with the business his side have conducted this window , bringing in Matty Cash , Ollie Watkins , Emiliano Martinez , Bertrand Traore and Ross Barkley .
Those deals , coupled with three wins from three in the Premier League and a 7-2 hammering of Liverpool , has Villa fans in good spirits .
But Smith will now have some difficult decisions to make regarding his squad .
Each Premier League club can only register @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for first-team matches .
Of those 25 players , no more than 17 can be non-homegrown players .
To fill a squad of 25 players over the age of 21 , a team must have at least eight homegrown players .
Homegrown players are classified as having been developed at an academy of a club in the English football pyramid for at least three seasons prior to their 21st birthday - but Under-21 players are eligible over and above the limit of 25 players per squad .
Assessing Villa 's current squad post-international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Jacob Ramsey not part of that tally given he 's an under-21 player .
Injured striker Wesley , meanwhile , is not expected to be named in Villa 's registered squad as he continues his recovery .
Now a potential problem for Smith should he dip into the domestic transfer window is he 'll have to shift out one of the above to make space .
Villa have 16 homegrown players currently and nine non-homegrown , meaning Villa fall comfortably within the Premier League 's remit .
The Premier League confirmed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The domestic transfer deadline - the window between Premier League and EFL clubs - closes on October 16 .
Villa 's next match is a trip to Leicester City on October 17 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tashan Deniran-Alleyne, Ashley Preece)

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Premier League managers now know when they must make a tough decision regarding their respective squads.
Aston Villa boss Dean Smith will be delighted with the business his side have conducted this window, bringing in Matty Cash, Ollie Watkins, Emiliano Martinez, Bertrand Traore and Ross Barkley.
Those deals, coupled with three wins from three in the Premier League and a 7-2 hammering of Liverpool, has Villa fans in good spirits.
But Smith will now have some difficult decisions to make regarding his squad.
Each Premier League club can only register 25 players over the age of 21 for first-team matches. Of those 25 players, no more than 17 can be non-homegrown players.
To fill a squad of 25 players over the age of 21, a team must have at least eight homegrown players.
Homegrown players are classified as having been developed at an academy of a club in the English football pyramid for at least three seasons prior to their 21st birthday - but Under-21 players are eligible over and above the limit of 25 players per squad.
Assessing Villa's current squad post-international deadline Smith has a squad of 25 with Jacob Ramsey not part of that tally given he's an under-21 player. Injured striker Wesley, meanwhile, is not expected to be named in Villa's registered squad as he continues his recovery.
Villa's current 25-player squad is listed below:
Goalkeepers: Emi Martinez (homegrown), Jed Steer (homegrown), Tom Heaton (homegrown), Lovre Kalinic.
Defenders: Matty Cash (homegrown), Ahmed Elmohamady, Frederic Guilbert, Ezri Konsa (homegrown), Bjorn Engels, Tyrone Mings (homegrown), Kortney Hause (homegrown), Neil Taylor (homegrown), Matt Targett (homegrown).
Midfielders: John McGinn, Conor Hourihane (homegrown), Marvelous Nakamba, Henri Lansbury (homegrown), Ross Barkley (homegrown), Douglas Luiz.
Wingers: Jack Grealish (homegrown), Bertrand Traore (homegrown), Trezeguet, Anwar El Ghazi.
Strikers: Ollie Watkins (homegrown), Keinan Davis (homegrown).
(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Now a potential problem for Smith should he dip into the domestic transfer window is he'll have to shift out one of the above to make space.
Villa have 16 homegrown players currently and nine non-homegrown, meaning Villa fall comfortably within the Premier League's remit.
The Premier League confirmed the date to register squads is October 20. The domestic transfer deadline - the window between Premier League and EFL clubs - closes on October 16. Villa's next match is a trip to Leicester City on October 17.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Speeding drink driver jailed after killing pedestrian

A speeding drink driver who mowed down and killed a pedestrian in Wolverhampton has been jailed .
Anup Patel struck Naresh Kumar as he tried to cross Dudley Road , Blakenhall , in the early hours of March 3 this year .
Patel had been driving at 49mph in a 30mph zone .
He was breath-tested at the scene and recorded 44mg of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath .
The legal limit is 35mg .
Mr Kumar , 50 , was taken to hospital with serious injuries and sadly died that same day .
Patel pleaded guilty to causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention whilst unfit through drink .
The 43-year-old of Dudley Walk , Goldthorn Hill , was jailed for three years at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Friday , October 2 .
He will be banned from driving for four-and-a-half years following his release .
Sergeant Dean Caswell , from the SCIU , said : `` This was a tragic case of Mr Kumar being in the wrong place at the wrong time .
`` Patel was not only speeding , but over the drink drive limit .
`` Sadly , nothing can bring Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this conviction will provide some crumb of comfort to his family . ''

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A speeding drink driver who mowed down and killed a pedestrian in Wolverhampton has been jailed.
Anup Patel struck Naresh Kumar as he tried to cross Dudley Road, Blakenhall, in the early hours of March 3 this year.
Patel had been driving at 49mph in a 30mph zone.
He was breath-tested at the scene and recorded 44mg of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35mg.
Mr Kumar, 50, was taken to hospital with serious injuries and sadly died that same day.
Patel pleaded guilty to causing death by driving without due care and attention whilst unfit through drink.
The 43-year-old of Dudley Walk, Goldthorn Hill, was jailed for three years at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Friday, October 2.
He will be banned from driving for four-and-a-half years following his release.
Sergeant Dean Caswell, from the SCIU, said: "This was a tragic case of Mr Kumar being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Patel was not only speeding, but over the drink drive limit.
"Sadly, nothing can bring Mr Kumar back and we can only hope this conviction will provide some crumb of comfort to his family."


birminghammail--2020-10-06--UK visitors to Australia  banned until end of next year

Holidays and visits to see relatives Down Under look unlikely until the end of 2021 .
Since March 17 , only citizens and permanent residents have been allowed to enter Australia with a few exceptions , with arrivals expected to pay for a two week hotel quarantin .
Australian Federal Budget has announced this week , that international travel will ‘ remain low ’ until the end of the year , or whenever a vaccine is widely available , MailOnline reports .
Social distancing measures will also be kept in place until all Australian residents can be vaccinated .
Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will secure almost 85 million doses of a coronavirus vaccine if two current trials they have invested in , prove successful .
He also made clear that Australia would open its borders to 'safe locations ' before allowing other travellers in .
Mr Morrison said : `` Our borders will open up at some point to safe locations whether it be New Zealand or parts of the Pacific or places like South Korea or Japan or countries that have had a much higher rate of success . ''
Restrictions on travelling between Australia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is expected internal borders will re-open by Christmas this year .
However Western Australia , which covers Perth , could stay shut until after its state election on March 31 2021 .
Australia has had a total of 27,174 cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 895 deaths .
Officials are keen to not to replicate nearby New Zealand 's mistake in the summer when it imported two new cases of Covid 19 from the UK a week after declaring it has eliminated the deadly virus within its borders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on in the pandemic , New Zealand PM Jacinda Arden won widespread praise from all over the globe for her swift handling of the virus- taking the unprecedented step of closing the borders entirely to almost all non-citizens or residents in March .

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Holidays and visits to see relatives Down Under look unlikely until the end of 2021.
Since March 17, only citizens and permanent residents have been allowed to enter Australia with a few exceptions, with arrivals expected to pay for a two week hotel quarantin.
Australian Federal Budget has announced this week, that international travel will ‘remain low’ until the end of the year, or whenever a vaccine is widely available, MailOnline reports.
Social distancing measures will also be kept in place until all Australian residents can be vaccinated.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison previously said his government will secure almost 85 million doses of a coronavirus vaccine if two current trials they have invested in, prove successful.
He also made clear that Australia would open its borders to 'safe locations' before allowing other travellers in.
Mr Morrison said: "Our borders will open up at some point to safe locations whether it be New Zealand or parts of the Pacific or places like South Korea or Japan or countries that have had a much higher rate of success."
Restrictions on travelling between Australia’s states still remain, although it is expected internal borders will re-open by Christmas this year.
However Western Australia, which covers Perth, could stay shut until after its state election on March 31 2021.
Australia has had a total of 27,174 cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 895 deaths.
Officials are keen to not to replicate nearby New Zealand's mistake in the summer when it imported two new cases of Covid 19 from the UK a week after declaring it has eliminated the deadly virus within its borders and subsequently lifted travel restrictions.
Early on in the pandemic, New Zealand PM Jacinda Arden won widespread praise from all over the globe for her swift handling of the virus- taking the unprecedented step of closing the borders entirely to almost all non-citizens or residents in March.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--EuroMillions results live: Winning numbers for Tuesday, October 6 2020

Another week and another chance for you to become a millionaire thanks to the National Lottery .
The lottery changes people 's lives every single day and tonight could be your night where you win a life-changing amount of money .
Every week , EuroMillions awards millions of pounds to people around the UK and you could be the lucky winner in tonight 's draw .
Tonight 's jackpot is a whopping £15m - and a large chunk of it could be yours if you 're lucky .
Can you imagine what you could win with that amount of money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , buy a new house or give up your day job and enjoy relaxing in your new mansion .
In case you missed last week 's number on Friday October 2 , the numbers were : 06 12 15 40 45 and the lucky stars were 03 09 .
The Millionaire Maker code was MZMF67754 .
All you have to do is visit the National Lottery website and buy a ticket .
It costs £2.50 to play and when you buy one , you are automatically entered into the Millionaire Maker draw which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be quick - you have until 7.30pm to buy your ticket and the draw will take place at 8.45pm .
We 're covering this event live so we will let you know the winning numbers when they are drawn .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

Another week and another chance for you to become a millionaire thanks to the National Lottery.
The lottery changes people's lives every single day and tonight could be your night where you win a life-changing amount of money.
Every week, EuroMillions awards millions of pounds to people around the UK and you could be the lucky winner in tonight's draw.
Tonight's jackpot is a whopping £15m - and a large chunk of it could be yours if you're lucky. Can you imagine what you could win with that amount of money?
You could travel around the world, buy a new house or give up your day job and enjoy relaxing in your new mansion.
In case you missed last week's number on Friday October 2, the numbers were: 06 12 15 40 45 and the lucky stars were 03 09. The Millionaire Maker code was MZMF67754.
All you have to do is visit the National Lottery website and buy a ticket. It costs £2.50 to play and when you buy one, you are automatically entered into the Millionaire Maker draw which rewards someone a guaranteed £1million.
But be quick - you have until 7.30pm to buy your ticket and the draw will take place at 8.45pm.
We're covering this event live so we will let you know the winning numbers when they are drawn.


birminghammail--2020-10-06--UK 'is heading for a three-tier lockdown announcement'

News UK Covid cases have more than doubled since last week with a further 14,542 people infected has reinforced fears a `` three tier lockdown '' is on the way , reports Mail Online .
The death toll has also soared by 76 - the highest single-day increase in deaths in more than three months .
The number of Covid-19 deaths and infections are not at the same levels seen during the pandemic in spring , when experts estimate , over 100,000 Britons were catching the disease every day .
However as Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty warned last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is still `` going in the wrong direction '' .
It has been reported that Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to unveil the details on Thursday in an attempt to make the existing restrictions easier to understand .
Leaked government documents seen by The Guardian show the proposals include the closure of pubs and a ban on all social contact outside of households .
The Guardian reports that the “ Covid-19 Proposed Social Distancing Framework ” dated September 30 , has not yet been signed off by No 10 .
But as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely that more UK wide restrictions will come into force .
Alert level 3 which is red contains tougher measures than any seen so far in local lockdowns since the start of the pandemic .
They include : • No social contact outside your household in any setting .
• Restrictions on overnight stays away from home .
• No organised non-professional sports permitted or other communal hobby groups and activities , such as social clubs in community centres .
The document says that alert level 3 would be “ triggered in geographical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures have not contained the spread of the virus , or where there has been a significant rise in transmission ” .
Birmingham is currently under alert level 2 were people must not meet others outside of their household in private dwellings or gardens , apart from their support bubble , or in pubs , restaurants or other settings .
Earlier this week a Government spokesman said : `` We are seeing coronavirus cases rise at a rapid rate across the country and , given how serious this virus is , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rule of six , washing their hands , practising social distancing and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces .
`` As we have shown , we are prepared to take action decisively when it is necessary , and it is of course right to look how we make sure everyone understands and complies with the restrictions that will keep us all safe . ''
In an interview on the BBC 's Andrew Marr show , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said : `` I 've got to tell you in all candour , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bumpy through to Christmas , it may even be bumpy beyond .
But this is the only way to do it .
This could be a very tough winter for all of us . ''

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News UK Covid cases have more than doubled since last week with a further 14,542 people infected has reinforced fears a " three tier lockdown" is on the way, reports Mail Online.
The death toll has also soared by 76 - the highest single-day increase in deaths in more than three months.
The number of Covid-19 deaths and infections are not at the same levels seen during the pandemic in spring, when experts estimate, over 100,000 Britons were catching the disease every day.
However as Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty warned last month, latest figures show the infection rate is still "going in the wrong direction".
It has been reported that Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to unveil the details on Thursday in an attempt to make the existing restrictions easier to understand.
Leaked government documents seen by The Guardian show the proposals include the closure of pubs and a ban on all social contact outside of households.
The Guardian reports that the “Covid-19 Proposed Social Distancing Framework” dated September 30, has not yet been signed off by No 10. But as infection rates soar, it is increasingly likely that more UK wide restrictions will come into force.
The draft plan works as a traffic light style system .
Alert level 3 which is red contains tougher measures than any seen so far in local lockdowns since the start of the pandemic. They include:
Closure of hospitality and leisure businesses.
No social contact outside your household in any setting.
Restrictions on overnight stays away from home.
No organised non-professional sports permitted or other communal hobby groups and activities, such as social clubs in community centres.
The document says that alert level 3 would be “triggered in geographical areas or nationally when alert level 2 measures have not contained the spread of the virus, or where there has been a significant rise in transmission”.
Birmingham is currently under alert level 2 were people must not meet others outside of their household in private dwellings or gardens, apart from their support bubble, or in pubs, restaurants or other settings.
Earlier this week a Government spokesman said: "We are seeing coronavirus cases rise at a rapid rate across the country and, given how serious this virus is, it is vital everyone plays their part by following the rule of six, washing their hands, practising social distancing and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces.
"As we have shown, we are prepared to take action decisively when it is necessary, and it is of course right to look how we make sure everyone understands and complies with the restrictions that will keep us all safe."
In an interview on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "I've got to tell you in all candour, it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond. But this is the only way to do it. This could be a very tough winter for all of us."


birminghammail--2020-10-06--Nurse dies amid claims cancer treatment 'delayed by Covid'

A devoted Birmingham nurse died of colon cancer after claims her treatment was delayed by coronavirus .
Mum-of-two Anna Fernandez died peacefully at her home last month on the day after her youngest son 's seventh birthday .
A close friend claimed Anna 's treatment was hit by delays - with biopsies not sent for examination and scans held up during the pandemic .
She was first diagnosed with cancer at the age of 38 and had been in remission for five years , before it returned earlier this year .
Anna , originally from the Philippines , worked on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Heartlands Hospital from 2002 before moving to Solihull where she was again based in AMU .
The 44-year-old was said to be a 'hard-working ' nurse and a devoted mum .
Described as a 'ray of sunshine ' , she leaves behind her husband Paul and young sons Gabriel and Andre .
The friend , speaking with the consent of Anna 's family , claimed delays to some of Anna 's cancer treatment , during the Covid crisis , had 'detrimental consequences ' on her health .
Anna was being treated at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - the hospital where she had dedicated years to caring for patients .
Biopsies , which should have been been examined in the USA were never sent - her friend claimed - and scans were held up .
Anna was eventually told her cancer was terminal and she died on September 19 .
In a heartfelt tribute , close friend Jennie Navarrette wrote : `` Anna was diagnosed with colon cancer at the early age of 38 .
`` Armed with a strong faith in God and surrounded by supportive family and friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in remission for five years .
`` Sadly , it recurred early this year .
Since the world has been plagued with Covid-19 , delays in some of her treatment had detrimental consequences .
`` She died on September 19 , the day after her youngest son Andre 's birthday .
She died peacefully at home in the presence of her family and very close friends . ''
The friends , who were both overseas nurses , met while working at Heartlands Hospital .
Jennie added : `` Being hard-working and thorough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her the kind of colleague anyone would look forward to work with every shift .
There was never a dull moment working with her .
`` Her presence made the workload light , she gladly did her job , no moaning or groaning even when the going got tough .
Despite the chaos , she remained composed and got on with the job , with her beautiful smile .
She was a ray of sunshine - a friendly , witty , kind and caring soul .
`` She leaves behind her husband Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , aged 13 and Andre , aged seven .
She was a very caring wife , a doting mum .
Her house was always meticulously clean , her boys always looked smart .
She was devoted to her family .
`` Anna was a very generous person , very accommodating and welcoming .
Their home became the favourite hang out of the group because of their openness and hospitality .
Her generosity extended far back to the Phillippines .
`` She has left a gaping hole in many hearts and will be very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful angel . ''
A spokesman for the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust , which runs the QE and Heartlands Hospital , said they could not comment specifically on the allegations about the delays in her treatment .
“ The Trust extends its heartfelt and deep condolences to Anna ’ s husband Paul and their young family at their tragic loss .
`` Anna was a much-loved and respected nurse and colleague , she will be dearly missed by all who worked with her , '' he said .
“ Where anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the care of a loved one , we encourage them to be in touch with our patient relations team.
” Friends are now trying to raise £5,000 to help with funeral expenses .
You can donate here .
A service will be held for Anna at Corpus Christi Church in Stechford later this month .

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A devoted Birmingham nurse died of colon cancer after claims her treatment was delayed by coronavirus.
Mum-of-two Anna Fernandez died peacefully at her home last month on the day after her youngest son's seventh birthday.
A close friend claimed Anna's treatment was hit by delays - with biopsies not sent for examination and scans held up during the pandemic.
She was first diagnosed with cancer at the age of 38 and had been in remission for five years, before it returned earlier this year.
Anna, originally from the Philippines, worked on the Stroke Unit and Acute Medical Unit at Heartlands Hospital from 2002 before moving to Solihull where she was again based in AMU.
The 44-year-old was said to be a 'hard-working' nurse and a devoted mum.
Described as a 'ray of sunshine', she leaves behind her husband Paul and young sons Gabriel and Andre.
The friend, speaking with the consent of Anna's family, claimed delays to some of Anna's cancer treatment, during the Covid crisis, had 'detrimental consequences' on her health.
Anna was being treated at both the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Heartlands - the hospital where she had dedicated years to caring for patients.
Biopsies, which should have been been examined in the USA were never sent - her friend claimed - and scans were held up.
Anna was eventually told her cancer was terminal and she died on September 19.
In a heartfelt tribute, close friend Jennie Navarrette wrote: "Anna was diagnosed with colon cancer at the early age of 38.
"Armed with a strong faith in God and surrounded by supportive family and friends, she braved the battle and had been in remission for five years.
"Sadly, it recurred early this year. Since the world has been plagued with Covid-19, delays in some of her treatment had detrimental consequences.
"She died on September 19, the day after her youngest son Andre's birthday. She died peacefully at home in the presence of her family and very close friends."
The friends, who were both overseas nurses, met while working at Heartlands Hospital.
Jennie added: "Being hard-working and thorough, topped with her speed, made her the kind of colleague anyone would look forward to work with every shift. There was never a dull moment working with her.
"Her presence made the workload light, she gladly did her job, no moaning or groaning even when the going got tough. Despite the chaos, she remained composed and got on with the job, with her beautiful smile. She was a ray of sunshine - a friendly, witty, kind and caring soul.
"She leaves behind her husband Paul, and two young children, Gabriel, aged 13 and Andre, aged seven. She was a very caring wife, a doting mum. Her house was always meticulously clean, her boys always looked smart. She was devoted to her family.
"Anna was a very generous person, very accommodating and welcoming. Their home became the favourite hang out of the group because of their openness and hospitality. Her generosity extended far back to the Phillippines.
"She has left a gaping hole in many hearts and will be very greatly missed. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel."
A spokesman for the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the QE and Heartlands Hospital, said they could not comment specifically on the allegations about the delays in her treatment.
“The Trust extends its heartfelt and deep condolences to Anna’s husband Paul and their young family at their tragic loss.
"Anna was a much-loved and respected nurse and colleague, she will be dearly missed by all who worked with her," he said.
“Where anyone has concerns about their care, or the care of a loved one, we encourage them to be in touch with our patient relations team.”
Friends are now trying to raise £5,000 to help with funeral expenses. You can donate here.
A service will be held for Anna at Corpus Christi Church in Stechford later this month.