birminghammail--2020-09-06--How Wolves could line up with £35m new signing Fabio Silva

The £35million club-record signing of Portuguese starlet Fabio Silva from FC Porto is a statement by Wolverhampton Wanderers .
A transfer window which had been worryingly quiet has finally been ignited with one month to go before the deadline arrives .
Wolves ' business wo n't finish with Silva 's arrival , there 's plenty more Nuno Espirito Santo wants to get done before his squad is capable of kicking on in the Premier League .
Silva - who had reportedly attracted interest from some of football 's grandest clubs - is an exciting start .
He joins Wolves ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adama Traore , Diogo Jota , Daniel Podence and Pedro Neto - but where will he fit in ?
Where will he play ?
Given the enormous transfer fee Wolves have shelled out , Silva is n't expected to be a bench-warmer at Molineux - despite the fact that he only turned 18 in July .
He will be given time to adapt to life in Wolverhampton and has plenty of his compatriots to lean on if he needs to .
Once he 's settled in , he is expected to become a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Silva fits into both of Nuno 's preferred formations but is perhaps better suited to playing as Wolves ' second striker alongside Jimenez .
Chairman Jeff Shi describes Silva as someone who can 'drop in to link play and hold the ball up to bring others into play ' .
`` He always then looks to get in the box and his movement and intelligence in the penalty area is as good as anyone 's , '' Shi added .
He 's only scored three goals at senior level in 24 appearances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is much more than numbers .
Wolves are set to strengthen further in the coming days and weeks , but here 's how Nuno could use Silva with the players he currently has at his disposal : Any Wolves XI without Jimenez looks strange but Silva 's job description includes filling in for the Mexican when he needs a breather .
In the last two seasons Nuno has n't had a player capable of filling that role but Silva should give Wolves the competition they 've been craving .
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Google Play Store and App Store Similarly to Jota , playing out on the left of a front three would n't be Silva 's preference , but it 's what he might have to do on occasions to get minutes .
With Podence or Traore on the right providing natural width and directness , Silva would have licence to drift into the centre alongside Jimenez .
The qualities Shi alludes to will be able to come to the fore in this formation .
The teenager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Jimenez and does n't have the pressure to wrack up numbers from the get-go .

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The £35million club-record signing of Portuguese starlet Fabio Silva from FC Porto is a statement by Wolverhampton Wanderers.
A transfer window which had been worryingly quiet has finally been ignited with one month to go before the deadline arrives.
Wolves' business won't finish with Silva's arrival, there's plenty more Nuno Espirito Santo wants to get done before his squad is capable of kicking on in the Premier League.
Silva - who had reportedly attracted interest from some of football's grandest clubs - is an exciting start.
He joins Wolves' outstanding attacking quintet of Raul Jimenez, Adama Traore, Diogo Jota, Daniel Podence and Pedro Neto - but where will he fit in?
(Image: Wolverhampton Wanderers FC/Getty Images)
Where will he play?
Given the enormous transfer fee Wolves have shelled out, Silva isn't expected to be a bench-warmer at Molineux - despite the fact that he only turned 18 in July.
He will be given time to adapt to life in Wolverhampton and has plenty of his compatriots to lean on if he needs to. Once he's settled in, he is expected to become a key player in Wolves' forward line.
Silva fits into both of Nuno's preferred formations but is perhaps better suited to playing as Wolves' second striker alongside Jimenez.
Chairman Jeff Shi describes Silva as someone who can 'drop in to link play and hold the ball up to bring others into play'.
"He always then looks to get in the box and his movement and intelligence in the penalty area is as good as anyone's," Shi added.
He's only scored three goals at senior level in 24 appearances for Porto but it's clear Silva is much more than numbers.
Potential line ups
Wolves are set to strengthen further in the coming days and weeks, but here's how Nuno could use Silva with the players he currently has at his disposal:
(3-4-3): Patricio; Boly, Coady, Saiss; Traore, Neves, Moutinho, Vinagre; Podence, Silva, Jota
Any Wolves XI without Jimenez looks strange but Silva's job description includes filling in for the Mexican when he needs a breather.
In the last two seasons Nuno hasn't had a player capable of filling that role but Silva should give Wolves the competition they've been craving.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
(3-4-3): Patricio; Boly, Coady, Saiss; Traore, Neves, Moutinho, Vinagre; Podence, Jimenez, Silva
Similarly to Jota, playing out on the left of a front three wouldn't be Silva's preference, but it's what he might have to do on occasions to get minutes.
With Podence or Traore on the right providing natural width and directness, Silva would have licence to drift into the centre alongside Jimenez.
(3-5-2): Patricio; Boly, Coady, Saiss; Traore, Dendoncker, Neves, Moutinho, Vinagre; Silva, Jimenez
The qualities Shi alludes to will be able to come to the fore in this formation. The teenager has the perfect partner to learn from in Jimenez and doesn't have the pressure to wrack up numbers from the get-go.


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Pictured: Birmingham city centre cordoned off after multiple stabbings

West Midlands Police has declared a 'major incident ' in Birmingham city centre after a number of stabbings were reported @ @ @ @ @ 12.30am on Sunday , September 6 .

West Midlands Police has declared a 'major incident' in Birmingham city centre after a number of stabbings were reported in the area shortly after 12.30am on Sunday, September 6.


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Albion target Grant sends good luck to message to Diangana

Grady Diangana took to social media this weekend to mark his return , on a permanent basis , to West Brom - and a man who could yet join him at The Hawthorns was among those to reply and wish him well .
Huddersfield Town striker Karlan Grant , a long-term target of Albion , scored 19 goals last season - including one against the Baggies - as the Terriers secured survival at the end of the campaign .
Diangana , meanwhile , was working at the other end of the table in helping Albion earn promotion - and now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s top flight return .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter Signing a five-year deal after joining from West Ham United , Diangana can ’ t wait to tackle the top flight in Albion colours .
He posted : “ 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 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
New Terriers boss Carlos Corberan recently admitted that Grant could be on the move before the window shuts , after he left him out of their Carabao Cup squad on Saturday .
Indeed by omitting him , it appears as though he ’ s already planning for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand the interest in Karlan Grant because what he did at this club is something amazing , ” Corberan told the BBC .
“ And I can understand when you have one player at his level some clubs are going to be interested in him .
“ We have to accept this , when you have special players you are going to start to live with this type of situation – with the rumours and with the different options that can appear from now until the end of the market .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players I feel are going to be in the squad all the year so Karlan Grant and Steve Mounie were not involved - because I think both players have options to not be in our squad .
”

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Grady Diangana took to social media this weekend to mark his return, on a permanent basis, to West Brom - and a man who could yet join him at The Hawthorns was among those to reply and wish him well.
Huddersfield Town striker Karlan Grant, a long-term target of Albion, scored 19 goals last season - including one against the Baggies - as the Terriers secured survival at the end of the campaign.
Diangana, meanwhile, was working at the other end of the table in helping Albion earn promotion - and now he’s back for the club’s top flight return.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter
Signing a five-year deal after joining from West Ham United, Diangana can’t wait to tackle the top flight in Albion colours.
He posted: “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.
New Terriers boss Carlos Corberan recently admitted that Grant could be on the move before the window shuts, after he left him out of their Carabao Cup squad on Saturday.
Indeed by omitting him, it appears as though he’s already planning for life without him.
“I can understand the interest in Karlan Grant because what he did at this club is something amazing,” Corberan told the BBC.
“And I can understand when you have one player at his level some clubs are going to be interested in him.
“We have to accept this, when you have special players you are going to start to live with this type of situation – with the rumours and with the different options that can appear from now until the end of the market.
“I wanted to give more minutes to the players I feel are going to be in the squad all the year so Karlan Grant and Steve Mounie were not involved - because I think both players have options to not be in our squad.”


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Villa receive worrying news over Ollie Watkins deal

Aston Villa 's pursuit of Brentford striker Ollie Watkins is fast becoming one of the sagas of the transfer window .
Dean Smith set his stall out quickly after last season finished and Villa have been trying to negotiate a deal with Brentford ever since .
But those discussions have n't proved fruitful and it 's even being suggested that the Bees are now demanding £28million for the striker who scored 26 goals in the Championship last season .
If Villa forked out the cash it would see Watkins become the club 's record signing , eclipsing the £22million spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , Villa are n't alone in their interest with a number of Premier League clubs looking to sign Watkins - and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly joined the race .
Jose Mourinho is looking to find a striker who can occasionally fill in for star striker Harry Kane in north London and The Mirror suggests Watkins could be his man .
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Google Play Store and App Store Speaking about the futures of Watkins and fellow Villa target Said Benrahma , Bees boss Thomas Frank said : `` We know there are a lot of rumours about a lot of our players because we had a top season and have a lot of top players who also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's no secret that Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma are players that other clubs are interested in and if the price is right then we are open for potentially selling them .
`` Speculation will continue until the day they are not here or the window is closed and they deserve a move now if the price is right . ''

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Aston Villa's pursuit of Brentford striker Ollie Watkins is fast becoming one of the sagas of the transfer window.
Dean Smith set his stall out quickly after last season finished and Villa have been trying to negotiate a deal with Brentford ever since.
But those discussions haven't proved fruitful and it's even being suggested that the Bees are now demanding £28million for the striker who scored 26 goals in the Championship last season.
If Villa forked out the cash it would see Watkins become the club's record signing, eclipsing the £22million spent on Brazilian striker Wesley last summer.
However, Villa aren't alone in their interest with a number of Premier League clubs looking to sign Watkins - and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly joined the race.
Jose Mourinho is looking to find a striker who can occasionally fill in for star striker Harry Kane in north London and The Mirror suggests Watkins could be his man.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Speaking about the futures of Watkins and fellow Villa target Said Benrahma, Bees boss Thomas Frank said: "We know there are a lot of rumours about a lot of our players because we had a top season and have a lot of top players who also developed throughout the year.
"So it's no secret that Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma are players that other clubs are interested in and if the price is right then we are open for potentially selling them.
"Speculation will continue until the day they are not here or the window is closed and they deserve a move now if the price is right."


birminghammail--2020-09-06--City centre major incident - multiple stabbings as people warned to 'stay away'

A major incident has been declared in Birmingham city centre after multiple stabbings - with the public urged to stay away from the heart of the city .
Emergency services flooded Essex Street and Upper Dean Street after reports of the first stabbing at approximately 12.30am on Sunday , September 6 .
A number of other stabbings were then reported in the area shortly after .
Police said they are aware of a number of injured people but could not reveal how many or how serious at this stage .
All emergency services were said to be working together at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injured receive medical care .
Cordons are in place and city centre roads have been closed off while police try to establish exactly what happened .
Police say it could take some time before they are in a position to confirm anything , but said it would not be appropriate to speculate on causes .
Officers urged people to avoid the city centre and to remain calm , but vigilant .
A statement from the force read : `` This has been declared a major incident .
The emergency services have well-rehearsed plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our response is ongoing in Birmingham city centre and will be for some time .
Cordons are in place , and there are some road closures .
`` Your safety is our priority .
We are now reviewing our policing across the city and will make any necessary changes .
You may see a greater police presence in the area .
`` We would urge you to remain calm ( but vigilant ) and to stay away from the area . ''
West Midlands Police added that it was not aware of comments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has not been reported to them .

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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A major incident has been declared in Birmingham city centre after multiple stabbings - with the public urged to stay away from the heart of the city.
Emergency services flooded Essex Street and Upper Dean Street after reports of the first stabbing at approximately 12.30am on Sunday, September 6.
A number of other stabbings were then reported in the area shortly after. Police said they are aware of a number of injured people but could not reveal how many or how serious at this stage.
All emergency services were said to be working together at the scene to ensure those who are injured receive medical care.
Cordons are in place and city centre roads have been closed off while police try to establish exactly what happened.
Police say it could take some time before they are in a position to confirm anything, but said it would not be appropriate to speculate on causes.
Officers urged people to avoid the city centre and to remain calm, but vigilant.
A statement from the force read: "This has been declared a major incident. The emergency services have well-rehearsed plans for dealing with major incidents.
"Our response is ongoing in Birmingham city centre and will be for some time. Cordons are in place, and there are some road closures.
"Your safety is our priority. We are now reviewing our policing across the city and will make any necessary changes. You may see a greater police presence in the area.
"We would urge you to remain calm (but vigilant) and to stay away from the area."
West Midlands Police added that it was not aware of comments that gunshots were also fired - but that has not been reported to them.


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Aitor Karanka nails it after Birmingham City loss

Aitor Karanka didn ’ t look unduly perturbed by Birmingham City ’ s loss against Cambridge United .
The new head coach spoke with the media after the deflating 1-0 defeat , revealing his belief that the team looked beaten once they went behind .
I am disappointed with the result , with the whole game because I think we could have done better .
It ’ s true I could say they didn ’ t create a chance , we have been here for just four weeks , we didn ’ t have the full squad but I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do better , we need to improve , we need to do better , to improve and when I see ‘ we ’ I mean the coaching staff - not the players .
We need to improve , we need to change the mentality or the feeling because I felt the team went to the pitch losing 1-0 and when we conceded that goal everyone was looking at the floor and thinking ‘ another game we are going to lose ’ .
If you go to the pitch thinking you are going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you will lose for sure .
We need to change that mentality .
We need to work especially on the training ground to improve and get better .
I didn ’ t check it .
I don ’ t know if it was a ‘ keeper mistake or a defender mistake .
I prefer to check before blaming someone .
Of course .
Their deserve credit for their work ethic and intensity .
All the balls into their strikers was a fight for our central defenders .
They ’ ve been working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has done a really good job .
All credit and I wish them all the best because they showed they are a team .
And I think that it ’ s the first step to be successful when you have a team on the pitch .
If now we are in another position and our aim is to get promotion or to get to the play-offs , I would say ‘ It is impossible to get to the play-offs with only young players ’ .
But I am here to build something , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same way so I prefer to take the positive thing and today we have seen we have a good kid in the academy who wants to learn , who wants to improve and I think that is an important thing .
How do you think Adan played ?
He did well , he is 18-years-old and for me the most important thing is when a player tries his best - and he did .
I prefer a player who does his best but he misses chances , it ’ s not his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than another one who is much , much better but who doesn ’ t perform one hundred per cent .
Adan today and against Tottenham it was difficult for him , or when he played against Charlton , he tried his best and when he has that mentality he will improve .
I think so , I told them at the end of the game , one thing is to say ‘ I have a winning mentality ’ but it ’ s not enough just to say it , you have to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can ’ t have it from one night to the following morning - you need to work everyday .
I told them to have that winning mentality it is to try to win every single ball in one action in every single training session .
If you start wanting to win every single ball in that training session , you want to win that ball , the following ball and at the end if you won all those balls you will win the game .
How much did this performance show the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t know because if you had seen us last Saturday against Tottenham you would say we are almost perfect and now you have to improve a lot .
Every single game is different .
I think we are going in a good way , so it ’ s just to keep calm , the main thing to learn for me is when you recognise you can improve .
We need to know we can do better , especially me , I am the first .
I could say today we played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to , I don ’ t like excuses but obviously the more quality you have the better you can play .
It is easy to say but in the way we didn ’ t sign a keeper until last week , we are not signing another keeper yet and we haven ’ t signed another striker is because I want to build something and I don ’ t want to bring in one striker then in two weeks time think that we have made a mistake .
We need to bring in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far , bring in the people who want to be here , want to improve and especially change that mentality .
Any progress on goalkeeper or striker ?
I don ’ t know .
I haven ’ t spoken with the CEO .
I will speak to him on Monday .
I don ’ t know because he ’ s not training with us yet .
Let ’ s see what happens but I know I ’ m not going to take any risks with him because last year he played 1,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youngest one and he needs to rest , and he ’ s needs to be fit because he ’ s another player who is a good example for the rest of the players because when he plays , he gives 150 per cent .
When he is fit , he will play , and he can play 90 minutes it will be perfect , and he can play 20 perfect .
And if we have to take him out one more week will do it .
Job more difficult than when you took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t like to compare .
Every single job is difficult .
Middlesbrough the happiness the chairman had to sign me .
The motivation that the chairman had when I signed there .
I ’ m thinking now the same .
We are in the same boat and we know what we want and what and we know we have to change .
I don ’ t know if it ’ s more difficult here .
I remember after three or four games when we played against Millwall away and it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation .
If we had lost that game , I think we would have been in the relegation positions and it was November and we won that day .
Another thing to remind me is to change that mentality that the players were flat or thinking that 'It ’ s another game ' .
It ’ s always a game to win .
I don ’ t know the extent , he is the kind of player that can play with pain but now we need to check him .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play because he ’ s the only player that can do something up front .

Aitor Karanka didn’t look unduly perturbed by Birmingham City’s loss against Cambridge United.
The new head coach spoke with the media after the deflating 1-0 defeat, revealing his belief that the team looked beaten once they went behind.
Here’s what was discussed.
Disappointed with the goal?
I am disappointed with the result, with the whole game because I think we could have done better.
It’s true I could say they didn’t create a chance, we have been here for just four weeks, we didn’t have the full squad but I don’t like excuses.
We need to do better, we need to improve, we need to do better, to improve and when I see ‘we’ I mean the coaching staff - not the players.
We need to improve, we need to change the mentality or the feeling because I felt the team went to the pitch losing 1-0 and when we conceded that goal everyone was looking at the floor and thinking ‘another game we are going to lose’.
If you go to the pitch thinking you are going to lose and you concede one goal, you will lose for sure. We need to change that mentality.
We need to work especially on the training ground to improve and get better.
Assessment of goal
I didn’t check it. I don’t know if it was a ‘keeper mistake or a defender mistake. I prefer to check before blaming someone.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Cambridge credit?
Of course. Their deserve credit for their work ethic and intensity. All the balls into their strikers was a fight for our central defenders.
They’ve been working together for a while and their manager has done a really good job. All credit and I wish them all the best because they showed they are a team.
And I think that it’s the first step to be successful when you have a team on the pitch.
Striker shortage
If now we are in another position and our aim is to get promotion or to get to the play-offs, I would say ‘It is impossible to get to the play-offs with only young players’.
But I am here to build something, the club and me are working in the same way so I prefer to take the positive thing and today we have seen we have a good kid in the academy who wants to learn, who wants to improve and I think that is an important thing.
How do you think Adan played?
He did well, he is 18-years-old and for me the most important thing is when a player tries his best - and he did.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
I prefer a player who does his best but he misses chances, it’s not his best day but at least he tries than another one who is much, much better but who doesn’t perform one hundred per cent.
Adan today and against Tottenham it was difficult for him, or when he played against Charlton, he tried his best and when he has that mentality he will improve.
Hangover from last season?
I think so, I told them at the end of the game, one thing is to say ‘I have a winning mentality’ but it’s not enough just to say it, you have to do it.
To have a winning mentality you can’t have it from one night to the following morning - you need to work everyday. I told them to have that winning mentality it is to try to win every single ball in one action in every single training session.
If you start wanting to win every single ball in that training session, you want to win that ball, the following ball and at the end if you won all those balls you will win the game.
How much did this performance show the work you have to do?
I don’t know because if you had seen us last Saturday against Tottenham you would say we are almost perfect and now you have to improve a lot. Every single game is different.
I think we are going in a good way, so it’s just to keep calm, the main thing to learn for me is when you recognise you can improve. We need to know we can do better, especially me, I am the first.
Vital to bring a striker in?
I could say today we played with kids but I don’t like to, I don’t like excuses but obviously the more quality you have the better you can play.
It is easy to say but in the way we didn’t sign a keeper until last week, we are not signing another keeper yet and we haven’t signed another striker is because I want to build something and I don’t want to bring in one striker then in two weeks time think that we have made a mistake.
We need to bring in the right people, we are doing so far, bring in the people who want to be here, want to improve and especially change that mentality.
Any progress on goalkeeper or striker?
I don’t know. I haven’t spoken with the CEO. I will speak to him on Monday.
Jutkiewicz fit for start of league season?
I don’t know because he’s not training with us yet. Let’s see what happens but I know I’m not going to take any risks with him because last year he played 1,000 games!
He’s not the youngest one and he needs to rest, and he’s needs to be fit because he’s another player who is a good example for the rest of the players because when he plays, he gives 150 per cent.
When he is fit, he will play, and he can play 90 minutes it will be perfect, and he can play 20 perfect. And if we have to take him out one more week will do it.
Job more difficult than when you took over at Middlesbrough?
I don’t like to compare. Every single job is difficult. Middlesbrough the happiness the chairman had to sign me.
The motivation that the chairman had when I signed there. I’m thinking now the same. We are in the same boat and we know what we want and what and we know we have to change.
I don’t know if it’s more difficult here. I remember after three or four games when we played against Millwall away and it’s not the best place to visit in that situation.
If we had lost that game, I think we would have been in the relegation positions and it was November and we won that day.
Another thing to remind me is to change that mentality that the players were flat or thinking that 'It’s another game'. It’s always a game to win.
Jeremie Bela injury
I don’t know the extent, he is the kind of player that can play with pain but now we need to check him. It’s his shoulder. I hope he can play because he’s the only player that can do something up front.


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Bilic's message ahead of Albion's return to the Premier League

When prompted , they were the words Slaven Bilic chose to describe West Bromwich Albion ahead of the club ’ s highly anticipated return to the Premier League .
Under Bilic ’ s guidance , the Albion went one better than the previous season as the clinched promotion from the Championship in July and make for the top flight after a two-year absence .
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Google Play Store and App Store The bookmakers will tell you that the Baggies are among the favourites when it comes to relegation ; perhaps that ’ s to be expected .
You ’ ll always find newly promoted sides towards the top of that particular market , and with Albion still to conduct further transfer business between now and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the picture is expected to change .
For now , Bilic and his players are hurtling towards the climax of their pre-season schedule before they welcome Leicester City in the curtain raiser .
He admits that Albion must target survival in the first instance , for that is the ambition of all who make the leap between the divisions - to make sure they ’ re still dining at English football ’ s top table 12 months on .
Whatever happens , Bilic predicts that his side will give everyone a game and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have to drastically alter how they go about things , despite the upgrade in opposition .
“ Now , the mood is great .
The mood was great last season , but everybody is very much looking forward to it , ” Bilic told Premier League World .
“ It ’ s not that somebody has given us a wildcard to join them - no , we deserve it .
They earned it , through a very difficult season .
“ You have to invest a lot of effort and sacrifice a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s why it ’ s called the Premier League .
“ We were training last season to defend and suffer without the ball , to play on the counter attacks , so we ’ ll have to adjust but we won ’ t have to change totally the way we play .
“ If you ask me in the short term - your ambition is to stay up .
The dedication , fight , commitment , passion - they are the words for our club .
”

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Dedication. Fight. Commitment. Passion.
When prompted, they were the words Slaven Bilic chose to describe West Bromwich Albion ahead of the club’s highly anticipated return to the Premier League.
Under Bilic’s guidance, the Albion went one better than the previous season as the clinched promotion from the Championship in July and make for the top flight after a two-year absence.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
The bookmakers will tell you that the Baggies are among the favourites when it comes to relegation; perhaps that’s to be expected.
You’ll always find newly promoted sides towards the top of that particular market, and with Albion still to conduct further transfer business between now and the closure of the transfer window, the picture is expected to change.
For now, Bilic and his players are hurtling towards the climax of their pre-season schedule before they welcome Leicester City in the curtain raiser.
He admits that Albion must target survival in the first instance, for that is the ambition of all who make the leap between the divisions - to make sure they’re still dining at English football’s top table 12 months on.
Whatever happens, Bilic predicts that his side will give everyone a game and doesn’t think that his side will have to drastically alter how they go about things, despite the upgrade in opposition.
“Now, the mood is great. The mood was great last season, but everybody is very much looking forward to it,” Bilic told Premier League World.
“It’s not that somebody has given us a wildcard to join them - no, we deserve it. They earned it, through a very difficult season.
“You have to invest a lot of effort and sacrifice a lot to get the chance - that’s why it’s called the Premier League.
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“We were training last season to defend and suffer without the ball, to play on the counter attacks, so we’ll have to adjust but we won’t have to change totally the way we play.
“If you ask me in the short term - your ambition is to stay up. The dedication, fight, commitment, passion - they are the words for our club.”


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Live updates - One dead and seven hurt in major city centre incident

West Midlands Police has launched a murder investigation after a major incident was declared in the city centre .
One @ @ @ @ @ were seriously injured and five more were hurt as a number of stabbings were reported @ @ @ @ @ city on Sunday morning , September 6 .
Police believe the incidents , which took @ @ @ @ @ , are linked and officers are doing all they can to find whoever was responsible @ @ @ @ @ Hurst Street , Irving Street and Livery Street while they continue to establish the cause @ @ @ @ @ is a live blog , we will be providing updates from the scene .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jayne Thomson, Charlotte Paxton, Stephanie Balloo, Kelly Ashmore, Ben Perrin)

20:53 KEY EVENT
Everything we know on the tragic city centre stabbings
West Midlands Police initially declared a major incident in Birmingham city centre at around 6am this morning (Sunday, Sept 6).
The force revealed several people had been injured in multiple stabbings across several locations in the heart of the city. The public were urged to avoid the area and ‘remain calm, but vigilant’.
Hours later, a murder investigation was launched as police revealed one man, aged 23, had died of injuries sustained in the shocking string of attacks.
Two others, a teenage male and a woman, were critically injured while five others, aged between 23 and 33, were also hurt during the knife rampage.
Several city centre streets were cordoned off by police as forensics combed scenes for evidence. This included part of Colmore Row, Edmund Street, Church Street, Livery Street, Hurst Street, Bromsgrove Street and lastly Irving Street- the tragic scene of the murder.
Chief Superintendent Steve Graham said all eight attacks appeared to be ‘random’ as he said officers could find no links between the victims.
He stressed there was no suggestion it was terror related or involved gangs during a press conference held at the police HQ, Lloyd House. Several false rumours on social media were dispelled by the force throughout the day.
A city centre bar owner later told BirminghamLive he had witnessed one of the final attacks in Hurst Street - where a woman and two men were stabbed.
At around 7pm, police released CCTV footage as part of their ongoing manhunt. Officers urged anyone who sees the man below to dial 999 immediately.
(Image: WMP)
The force also revealed the exact times they were called to each of the four incidents, which can be viewed in chronological order in this timeline.
This marks the end of the updates on the tragic major incident. As soon as we receive any more information on the conditions of the victims, we will update you.
If you have been affected by this incident, you can contact us via newsdesk@birminghammail.net.


birminghammail--2020-09-06--Fabio Silva's first words after sealing club record Wolves transfer

Despite a fairly quiet start to the current transfer window , Wolves have managed to make a major splash with @ @ @ @ @ .
The highly-rated forward has joined Wanderers for £35 million - becoming their new record @ @ @ @ @ minutes were rather scarce at Porto ( Silva only broke onto the scene last season @ @ @ @ @ serious impact at youth level for the club , as well as the Portuguese international @ @ @ @ @ for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the @ @ @ @ @ might not yet replace Raul Jimenez in the first-team under Nuno - but certainly replaces @ @ @ @ @ club 's record transfer .
Now , the forward has spoken out ahead of his @ @ @ @ @ Ready and excited for this challenge in the Premier League , '' said Silva on @ @ @ @ @ quick `` Hi , ho Wolverhampton . ''
Silva , 18 , will join up @ @ @ @ @ after joining on a five-year deal .

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Despite a fairly quiet start to the current transfer window, Wolves have managed to make a major splash with the signing of Fabio Silva.
The highly-rated forward has joined Wanderers for £35 million - becoming their new record signing.
While his match minutes were rather scarce at Porto (Silva only broke onto the scene last season), he made a serious impact at youth level for the club, as well as the Portuguese international youth teams.
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Silva might not yet replace Raul Jimenez in the first-team under Nuno - but certainly replaces the Mexican forward as the club's record transfer.
Now, the forward has spoken out ahead of his career with Wolves.
"Ready and excited for this challenge in the Premier League," said Silva on Twitter - before adding a quick "Hi, ho Wolverhampton."
Silva, 18, will join up with Wolves this coming Monday after joining on a five-year deal.


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Brummies with Covid risk told to drive 70 miles for test as infection rates soar

Brummies with coronavirus symptoms trying to book tests were today advised to drive 70 miles - despite new testing locations opening at speed across the city to try to keep up with demand .
We were contacted by residents who tried in vain yesterday ( Sunday ) to book a local test , with one advised to drive to Derby and another offered an appointment in Cheshire .
So when we tried to book one ourselves on the NHs testing website this morning ( Monday ) we quickly got stuck - we were advised there were no postal tests or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should instead drive to Deeside , 70 miles away .
The frustrating situation is being repeated up and down the country as testing capacity is unable to keep up with demand - a particular worry in a city which is experiencing rising cases .
Infection rates have now soared to their highest level since lockdown restrictions began to ease in June .
As reported earlier today , the city has a rate of 48.8 cases per 100,000 residents , representing 557 new cases in a week .
That takes it worryingly close to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of the country , including in Greater Manchester .
The huge jump in cases is particularly due to infections picked up and transmitted between private households gathering at home .
The rate also reflects increased testing across the city .
But the much maligned national 'test and trace ' system , overseen by commercial operators , is clearly struggling to cope .
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said : “ As widely reported , there have been national issues with the testing system . ''
Birmingham has additional testing locations now operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it easier for people to get a test , including walk-up and doorstep tests .
“ In Birmingham there are two mobile drive-through testing sites .
These move location every three to four days to provide greater access , in addition to the regional testing drive-through hub which has recently moved from Edgbaston cricket ground to Birmingham Airport .
“ The council has been working hard with the NHS Test and Trace team to step up additional walk-through sites in the city and there are now three of these live at Villiers St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and South Gate Car Park at University of Birmingham .
“ Last week these sites tested over 3,000 citizens and we are working to open three further sites over the next 10 days .
`` The walk-through sites are booked through the national testing website or by ringing 119 . ''
The council is also piloting a drop and collect approach to testing , due to start across the city this week .
But even with these extra sites , availability can not be guaranteed .
Get all the latest politics updates in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much more important than ever during the coronavirus 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 who represents us .
There 's also 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store “ NHS Test & Trace have advised us they are experiencing a national upsurge in demand for testing and currently the booking system switches off automatically when all allocated slots for a particular day have been taken .
There is a national allocation of postal kits each day which is separate to the kits through the drive-through and walk-through facilities and separate from local pilots like drop and collect.
” On Thursday Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the UK 's testing regime was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being directed to centres miles away from their homes .
Mr Hancock told Sky News : `` At the moment the system works well .
Of course there are operational challenges from time to time but it works well .
`` And we 're finding a higher and higher proportion of people in the country who have coronavirus and getting them tests so they can be looked after .
`` But absolutely we need to roll out more testing . ''
In a statement , a spokesperson for the Department of Health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Trace is working – we are working to increase national testing capacity and hundreds of thousands of people are being tested every day .
“ There is a high demand for tests and our laboratories continue to turn test results around as quickly as possible .
To make sure we stay in control of this virus we are targeting our testing capacity at the areas that need it most , including those where there is an outbreak , as well as prioritising at-risk groups .
“ We are expanding testing capacity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of October – as well as bringing in new technology to process tests even faster .
”

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Brummies with coronavirus symptoms trying to book tests were today advised to drive 70 miles - despite new testing locations opening at speed across the city to try to keep up with demand.
We were contacted by residents who tried in vain yesterday (Sunday) to book a local test, with one advised to drive to Derby and another offered an appointment in Cheshire.
So when we tried to book one ourselves on the NHs testing website this morning (Monday) we quickly got stuck - we were advised there were no postal tests or walk in centre appointments available and we should instead drive to Deeside, 70 miles away.
The frustrating situation is being repeated up and down the country as testing capacity is unable to keep up with demand - a particular worry in a city which is experiencing rising cases.
Infection rates have now soared to their highest level since lockdown restrictions began to ease in June.
As reported earlier today, the city has a rate of 48.8 cases per 100,000 residents, representing 557 new cases in a week.
That takes it worryingly close to rates that triggered local lockdowns in other parts of the country, including in Greater Manchester.
The huge jump in cases is particularly due to infections picked up and transmitted between private households gathering at home. The rate also reflects increased testing across the city.
But the much maligned national 'test and trace' system, overseen by commercial operators, is clearly struggling to cope.
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “As widely reported, there have been national issues with the testing system."
Birmingham has additional testing locations now operating to try to meet demand and make it easier for people to get a test, including walk-up and doorstep tests.
“In Birmingham there are two mobile drive-through testing sites. These move location every three to four days to provide greater access, in addition to the regional testing drive-through hub which has recently moved from Edgbaston cricket ground to Birmingham Airport.
“The council has been working hard with the NHS Test and Trace team to step up additional walk-through sites in the city and there are now three of these live at Villiers St, Lozells; Saltley Wellbeing Centre; and South Gate Car Park at University of Birmingham.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
“Last week these sites tested over 3,000 citizens and we are working to open three further sites over the next 10 days.
"The walk-through sites are booked through the national testing website or by ringing 119."
The council is also piloting a drop and collect approach to testing, due to start across the city this week.
But even with these extra sites, availability cannot be guaranteed.
“NHS Test & Trace have advised us they are experiencing a national upsurge in demand for testing and currently the booking system switches off automatically when all allocated slots for a particular day have been taken. There is a national allocation of postal kits each day which is separate to the kits through the drive-through and walk-through facilities and separate from local pilots like drop and collect.”
On Thursday Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the UK's testing regime was working 'well', despite some people being directed to centres miles away from their homes.
Mr Hancock told Sky News: "At the moment the system works well. Of course there are operational challenges from time to time but it works well.
"And we're finding a higher and higher proportion of people in the country who have coronavirus and getting them tests so they can be looked after.
"But absolutely we need to roll out more testing."
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “NHS Test and Trace is working – we are working to increase national testing capacity and hundreds of thousands of people are being tested every day.
“There is a high demand for tests and our laboratories continue to turn test results around as quickly as possible. To make sure we stay in control of this virus we are targeting our testing capacity at the areas that need it most, including those where there is an outbreak, as well as prioritising at-risk groups.
“We are expanding testing capacity to 500,000 tests a day by the end of October – as well as bringing in new technology to process tests even faster.”


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Aston Villa's failed Callum Wilson transfer pursuit didn't add up

Callum Wilson is about to be announced holding up a Newcastle scarf on Tyneside as opposed to a claret and blue one 200 miles south in Birmingham .
The 28-year-old snubbed Aston Villa over the weekend and opted to join up with Steve Bruce in the North East as he bids to win back an England place for the year ahead .
The £20 million transfer would have been a bit of a gut-wrenching blow for Dean Smith given a : the manager 's admiration for the Bournemouth man and b : knowing his family live just 30 minutes from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understood Newcastle offered more in wages for Wilson who , at the Vitality Stadium , earned a cool £100,000 per week .
That six-figure bracket would have made him by far Villa 's top earner ahead of the likes of Jack Grealish , Tyrone Mings and Tom Heaton .
There 's genuine excitement on Tyneside ahead of the Wilson announcement - and there would have been in B6 given Villa 's somewhat desperate search for a striker ahead of the new campaign .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page or click here However , analysing the Wilson deal , there could well be more risk than reward if you cite Wilson 's most-recent form .
The striker , who 's had three significant knee injuries previously , managed eight Premier League goals in 35 outings , which included a hot spell of five in four games between August and September last year .
A 15-game goal drought sufficed , though , before three goals in 13 matches as Bournemouth were eventually relegated back down to the Championship .
Knowing Villa 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underthe age of 28 with potentially big re-sale value , the initial interest in Wilson did appear - on the face of it - odd .
Known target Ollie Watkins , by contract , makes complete sense given his age ( 24 ) , form ( 26 goals last term ) and the fact he 's proven himself in England albeit in a step below the Premier League .
I do n't believe Villa should really snarl at Wilson 's snub and , instead , should see it as an opportunity to sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead of them in a Villa shirt .
A transfer target could become available at a flick of a switch and , as the season nears and the window ticks down , clubs and players become all the more twitchy .
Villa will remain coy and composed in this somewhat turbulent transfer window given the financial implications of the ongoing pandemic .
As for the deal to bring in Wilson , the whole financial package - £100,000-a-week , long-term contract - would n't have stacked up and mirrored the Villa 's current philosophy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move the goalposts and the signing , to some , would have screamed panic .
Villa are long past the days of splurging fees on strikers for the sake of it - i.e .
Ross McCormack and Scott Hogan as per more HERE - and supporters should trust the process knowing there 's still four weeks to go until the European transfer window shuts .
There 's also an extended window for Premier League-EFL deals up until October 16 , too .
Back to Wilson , though , and , with every deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pudding as to whether Villa would have dodged a bullet or , on the contrary , missed a trick in a similar vein to baulking at Neal Maupay 's £20 million fee last summer .
It 's over to sporting director Johan Lange and chief exec Christian Purslow to now bring in an alternative .
Let 's watch this space .
• Stay in touch with Aston Villa transfers throughout the day HERE .

Callum Wilson has just been announced holding up a Newcastle scarf on Tyneside as opposed to a claret and blue one 200 miles south in Birmingham.
The 28-year-old snubbed Aston Villa over the weekend and opted to join up with Steve Bruce in the North East as he bids to win back an England place for the year ahead.
The £20 million transfer would have been a bit of a gut-wrenching blow for Dean Smith given a: the manager's admiration for the Bournemouth man and b: knowing his family live just 30 minutes from Villa's training ground.
It's understood Newcastle offered more in wages for Wilson who, at the Vitality Stadium, earned a cool £100,000 per week. That six-figure bracket would have made him by far Villa's top earner ahead of the likes of Jack Grealish, Tyrone Mings and Tom Heaton.
There's genuine excitement on Tyneside ahead of the Wilson announcement - and there would have been in B6 given Villa's somewhat desperate search for a striker ahead of the new campaign.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
However, analysing the Wilson deal, there could well be more risk than reward if you cite Wilson's most-recent form. The striker, who's had three significant knee injuries previously, managed eight Premier League goals in 35 outings, which included a hot spell of five in four games between August and September last year. A 15-game goal drought sufficed, though, before three goals in 13 matches as Bournemouth were eventually relegated back down to the Championship.
Knowing Villa's usually strict transfer policy of buying players under the age of 28 with potentially big re-sale value , the initial interest in Wilson did appear - on the face of it - odd. Known target Ollie Watkins, by contract, makes complete sense given his age (24), form (26 goals last term) and the fact he's proven himself in England albeit in a step below the Premier League.
I don't believe Villa should really snarl at Wilson's snub and, instead, should see it as an opportunity to sign someone even better with their prime years ahead of them in a Villa shirt. A transfer target could become available at a flick of a switch and, as the season nears and the window ticks down, clubs and players become all the more twitchy.
Villa will remain coy and composed in this somewhat turbulent transfer window given the financial implications of the ongoing pandemic. As for the deal to bring in Wilson, the whole financial package - £100,000-a-week, long-term contract - wouldn't have stacked up and mirrored Villa's current philosophy. The club would have had to move the goalposts and the signing, to some, would have screamed panic.
Villa are long past the days of splurging fees on strikers for the sake of it - i.e. Ross McCormack and Scott Hogan as per more HERE - and supporters should trust the process knowing there's still four weeks to go until the European transfer window shuts. There's also an extended window for Premier League-EFL deals up until October 16, too.
Back to Wilson, though, and, with every deal, the proof will always be in the pudding as to whether Villa would have dodged a bullet or, on the contrary, missed a trick in a similar vein to baulking at Neal Maupay's £20 million fee last summer. It's over to sporting director Johan Lange and chief exec Christian Purslow to now bring in an alternative. Let's watch this space.


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Northfield MP Gary Sambrook calls BBC 'anti-British and politically biased'

A group of Conservative MPs have accused the BBC of being `` anti-British and politically biased '' .
It comes as the Government considers whether to axe the licence fee , which pays for the BBC and currently must be paid by anyone who owns a television .
Birmingham Northfield MP Gary Sambrook is one of 15 MPs to sign a letter addressed to Tim Davie , the Director General of the BBC .
It says : `` The BBC is now increasingly seen by licence-fee payers as anti-British and politically biased ; focused on delivering for the 'on-demand metropolitan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touch with its core audience who want an independent and impartial national broadcaster . ''
They highlight the BBC 's proposal , since reversed , to perform instrumental versions of Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Brittania at the Last Night of the Proms event .
The broadcaster originally announced the songs would be broadcast without singing .
It said this was because of Covid-19 restrictions , but there were reports that people involved with the production objected to the lyrics .
The BBC has now said a small group of singers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In their letter , the MPs said : `` As the national broadcaster , the BBC should have explored the full context of those lyrics within British history .
Instead , all the BBC can offer is censorship and ahistorical apologism for doing so . ''
The MPs also say the BBC 's news reporting is biased , saying : `` There is a distinct lack of impartiality in BBC reporting and commentary . ''
While they do n't directly suggest that the licence fee could be abolished , they state : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer wish to fund the BBC nor watch it . ''
It comes days after Prime Minister Boris Johnson hinted in the House of Commons last week that he wants to abolish the licence fee .
The Prime Minister was responding to a Conservative MP , who argued that if he chooses to buy a newspaper then he ’ s not also obliged to pay for another paper which he doesn ’ t actually want .
The MP continued : “ Yet when I want to watch live TV on Sky , Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay for the BBC .
Does the Prime Minister believe that is a sustainable situation in the medium or longer term ?
” Mr Johnson told him : “ My honourable friend makes a very interesting point , and I am sure that point of view is shared by many people in this country.
” Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden is in the process of drawing up a “ roadmap ” for reform of the BBC , which will include an announcement on the future of the licence fee .
One option that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay the fee .
At the moment , if you own a TV and fail to buy the £157.50 licence then you ’ re guilty of a criminal offence .
You can be fined up to £1,000 or , in theory , jailed .
Decrminalisation would mean it was no longer a crime to fail to possess a licence .
Other options include abolishing the licence entirely .
TThe BBC could be funded through a voluntary subscription , like Netflix .
Any change will take a while to implement , as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Royal Charter , which sets out the BBC ’ s objectives .
The current Charter lasts until 2027 .

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A group of Conservative MPs have accused the BBC of being "anti-British and politically biased".
It comes as the Government considers whether to axe the licence fee, which pays for the BBC and currently must be paid by anyone who owns a television.
Birmingham Northfield MP Gary Sambrook is one of 15 MPs to sign a letter addressed to Tim Davie, the Director General of the BBC. It says: "The BBC is now increasingly seen by licence-fee payers as anti-British and politically biased; focused on delivering for the 'on-demand metropolitan elite', and being out of touch with its core audience who want an independent and impartial national broadcaster."
They highlight the BBC's proposal, since reversed, to perform instrumental versions of Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Brittania at the Last Night of the Proms event.
The broadcaster originally announced the songs would be broadcast without singing. It said this was because of Covid-19 restrictions, but there were reports that people involved with the production objected to the lyrics. The BBC has now said a small group of singers will perform the songs after all.
In their letter, the MPs said: "As the national broadcaster, the BBC should have explored the full context of those lyrics within British history. Instead, all the BBC can offer is censorship and ahistorical apologism for doing so."
The MPs also say the BBC's news reporting is biased, saying: "There is a distinct lack of impartiality in BBC reporting and commentary."
While they don't directly suggest that the licence fee could be abolished, they state: "An increasing number of ordinary citizens no longer wish to fund the BBC nor watch it."
It comes days after Prime Minister Boris Johnson hinted in the House of Commons last week that he wants to abolish the licence fee.
The Prime Minister was responding to a Conservative MP, who argued that if he chooses to buy a newspaper then he’s not also obliged to pay for another paper which he doesn’t actually want.
The MP continued: “Yet when I want to watch live TV on Sky, Amazon Prime or ITV, I am forced to pay for the BBC. Does the Prime Minister believe that is a sustainable situation in the medium or longer term?”
Mr Johnson told him: “My honourable friend makes a very interesting point, and I am sure that point of view is shared by many people in this country.”
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden is in the process of drawing up a “roadmap” for reform of the BBC, which will include an announcement on the future of the licence fee.
One option that’s been considered is decriminalising failure to pay the fee. At the moment, if you own a TV and fail to buy the £157.50 licence then you’re guilty of a criminal offence. You can be fined up to £1,000 or, in theory, jailed.
Decrminalisation would mean it was no longer a crime to fail to possess a licence.
Other options include abolishing the licence entirely. TThe BBC could be funded through a voluntary subscription, like Netflix.
Any change will take a while to implement, as the current arrangements are guaranteed by the BBC’s Royal Charter, which sets out the BBC’s objectives. The current Charter lasts until 2027.


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Pizza Express closing Birmingham, Merry Hill, Shirley, Walsall restaurants

Pizza Express has said it will push forward with plans to close 73 restaurants and cut around 1,100 jobs .
@ @ @ @ @ chain comes after restructuring plans were approved by creditors .
It has become the latest @ @ @ @ @ after revenues dived following the enforced closure of its restaurants in March .
The group @ @ @ @ @ , with more than 30 other sites set to reopen in the coming weeks .
@ @ @ @ @ Birmingham eateries , in Corporation Street and the Mailbox , as well as a restaurant @ @ @ @ @ and Walsall .
The following sites have been earmarked for permanent closure :

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Pizza Express has said it will push forward with plans to close 73 restaurants and cut around 1,100 jobs.
The move from the Italian chain comes after restructuring plans were approved by creditors.
It has become the latest dining chain to shut sites after revenues dived following the enforced closure of its restaurants in March.
The group currently has 355 sites open, with more than 30 other sites set to reopen in the coming weeks.
Pizza Express will shut two Birmingham eateries, in Corporation Street and the Mailbox, as well as a restaurant in Merry Hill, Shirley and Walsall.
Moseley's restaurant will also close.
The following sites have been earmarked for permanent closure:
Aberdeen - Belmont St
Aylesbury
Barnstaple - Three Tuns
Biggleswade
Billericay
Birmingham - Corporation St
Birmingham - Mailbox
Bournemouth - Post Office Rd
Bramhall
Bristol - Berkeley Sq
Bristol - Regent St
Bromsgrove
Bruton Place
Charlotte St
Chippenham
Dalton Park
Darlington
Dudley - Merry Hill
Earls Court - Earls Ct Rd
Edinburgh - Holyrood
Formby
Fulham Palace Road
Glasgow - Princes Square
Glossop
Gosforth
Grantham
Halifax
Hampstead
Hatch End
Hereford
Heswall
Ipswich - Lloyds Ave
Leeds - Crown St
Leeds - Horsforth
Ludlow
Lymington
Melton Mowbray
Midhurst
Milton Keynes - Hub
Moseley
New Brighton
Newcastle
Newport - Isle of Wight
Newport - South Wales
Northallerton
Nottingham - Goosegate
O2 Finchley
Orpington
Oxford - Oxford Castle
Poole
Port Solent
Ramsgate
Reading - St Mary's Butts
Scarborough
Sheffield - Devonshire St
Sheffield The Moor
Shirley
Southport - Old Bank
Stafford
Staines
Stoke
Stourbridge
Sudbury
Torquay
Uxbridge
Wakefield
Walsall
Wapping
Wardour St
Weston-super-Mare
Whiteley Village
Whitstable
Wrexham


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Order to stop dogs attacking children and livestock to continue

An order to ensure dogs are kept on leashes to stop them attacking children and livestock in Wolverhampton looks set to be extended .
City of Wolverhampton Council 's cabinet will meet on Wednesday ( September 9 ) to discuss the renewal of the public space protection order ( PSPO ) for dog control .
If approved , the order will be in place for three years and will require owners to keep their canines on a lead near main roads and parts of Northycote Farm , as well as within 100 metre radius of schools .
It will also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lead at the instruction of police or council officers .
Dogs are also banned from entering fenced children 's play areas and public park tennis courts and from fouling in public areas with owners also required to clean up after their pets .
An order first came into force in the city in 2017 with vast majority of respondents to the public consultation in favour of the PSPO .
A report to cabinet said 222 people were consulted this year with high numbers again agreeing with the conditions .
The report said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those in control of dogs to keep their dogs on a lead when near to a major road in Wolverhampton .
`` This requirement is based on public safety and the welfare of dogs being an attempt to prevent stray or uncontrolled dogs getting loose on the main road .
`` The second requirement relates specifically to Northycote Farm and is designed to prevent uncontrolled dogs attacking or killing livestock on the site .
`` The third requirement is for those in control of dogs to keep their dogs on a lead within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ academy building where such educational institute caters for pupils up to the age of 16 .
`` This is required to prevent out of control dogs biting or frightening children as sight of lots of children going to or leaving school at the same time can cause some dogs to get over excited . ''

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An order to ensure dogs are kept on leashes to stop them attacking children and livestock in Wolverhampton looks set to be extended.
City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet will meet on Wednesday (September 9) to discuss the renewal of the public space protection order (PSPO) for dog control.
If approved, the order will be in place for three years and will require owners to keep their canines on a lead near main roads and parts of Northycote Farm, as well as within 100 metre radius of schools.
It will also mean people have to put dogs on a lead at the instruction of police or council officers.
Dogs are also banned from entering fenced children's play areas and public park tennis courts and from fouling in public areas with owners also required to clean up after their pets.
An order first came into force in the city in 2017 with vast majority of respondents to the public consultation in favour of the PSPO.
A report to cabinet said 222 people were consulted this year with high numbers again agreeing with the conditions.
The report said: "The first requirement is for those in control of dogs to keep their dogs on a lead when near to a major road in Wolverhampton.
"This requirement is based on public safety and the welfare of dogs being an attempt to prevent stray or uncontrolled dogs getting loose on the main road.
"The second requirement relates specifically to Northycote Farm and is designed to prevent uncontrolled dogs attacking or killing livestock on the site.
"The third requirement is for those in control of dogs to keep their dogs on a lead within 100 metre radius of any school or academy building where such educational institute caters for pupils up to the age of 16.
"This is required to prevent out of control dogs biting or frightening children as sight of lots of children going to or leaving school at the same time can cause some dogs to get over excited."


birminghammail--2020-09-07--First look inside intu Merry Hill's newest store

A brand-new store opened its doors at intu Merry Hill this weekend .
The Chuckling Cheese Company , which specialises in artisan cheese , opened on Saturday , September 5 .
It 's set to be a firm favourite with cheese fans across the region , offering a wide range of flavoured cheddars including mango , horseradish , gin and tonic and an edible-coal infused cheddar - plus chutneys , sweet treats and pork scratchings .
Following a successful year running a kiosk at the Brierley Hill shopping centre , The Chuckling Cheese Company decided to move to a shop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The new store - located in the former Virgin Media unit , near Hotel Chocolat on the lower mall - will also be stocked with craft beers , gins , vodkas , coffee syrups , fudge bars and giant meringues .
The Chuckling Cheese Company is the latest in a series of independent stores to make intu Merry Hill a permanent home , joining the likes of Burrito Kitchen , Little Desert Shop , Dr Eamer ’ s Gin Emporium and Oopsy Daisies .
Rachael Jackson , general manager at intu Merry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent of stores now open at the centre , it ’ s a great time to welcome another new addition for our growing number of visitors to enjoy .
“ The Chuckling Cheese pop-up has built up a loyal following over the last 12 months and we look forward to seeing visitors ’ reaction to the new store.
” Emma Colclough , director at The Chuckling Cheese Company , said “ We ’ re really excited to open a permanent shop at intu Merry Hill .
`` The additional space means we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our visitors and we look forward to welcoming both regular and new customers to our fantastic store .
”

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A brand-new store opened its doors at intu Merry Hill this weekend.
The Chuckling Cheese Company, which specialises in artisan cheese, opened on Saturday, September 5.
It's set to be a firm favourite with cheese fans across the region, offering a wide range of flavoured cheddars including mango, horseradish, gin and tonic and an edible-coal infused cheddar - plus chutneys, sweet treats and pork scratchings.
Following a successful year running a kiosk at the Brierley Hill shopping centre, The Chuckling Cheese Company decided to move to a shop so it could introduce its full range.
(Image: Shaun Fellows / Shine Pix Ltd)
The new store - located in the former Virgin Media unit, near Hotel Chocolat on the lower mall - will also be stocked with craft beers, gins, vodkas, coffee syrups, fudge bars and giant meringues.
The Chuckling Cheese Company is the latest in a series of independent stores to make intu Merry Hill a permanent home, joining the likes of Burrito Kitchen, Little Desert Shop, Dr Eamer’s Gin Emporium and Oopsy Daisies.
Rachael Jackson, general manager at intu Merry Hill said: “With 96 per cent of stores now open at the centre, it’s a great time to welcome another new addition for our growing number of visitors to enjoy.
“The Chuckling Cheese pop-up has built up a loyal following over the last 12 months and we look forward to seeing visitors’ reaction to the new store.”
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Emma Colclough, director at The Chuckling Cheese Company, said “We’re really excited to open a permanent shop at intu Merry Hill.
"The additional space means we can bring the full Chuckling Cheese experience to our visitors and we look forward to welcoming both regular and new customers to our fantastic store.”


birminghammail--2020-09-07--£60k speed bump plan after drivers crash into homes and walls

Speed bumps are to be installed in a Solihull village centre in response to long-running concerns about drivers racing through at dangerous speeds .
Campaigners are delighted that a gauntlet of traffic-calming measures is at last taking shape on the main route through Hampton-in-Arden .
There have been several cases of homes and buildings being hit by vehicles in the past 20 years and a walker was badly hurt in a collision in 2016 .
While a scheme to slow down speeders has been on the cards for some time , a number of previous funding bids have failed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which will also include road signs and a pedestrian refuge , is finally moving forward - with £60,000 to be spent on the measures .
It is hoped that work could get underway on High Street/Meriden Road within the next 12 months .
Mike Blomer , a Hampton resident and chair of the parish council , admitted speed bumps had their critics but warned doing nothing was too much of a risk .
`` Of course it was immediately apparent that there would a problem with funding , so we have broken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
£35,000 is set to be drawn from HS2 's Road Safety Fund , with the remainder of the money being raised by the parish council council itself .
`` We recognise that speed humps are n't popular with everybody , '' said Mr Blomer .
`` If something did happen , residents would want to know afterwards what the parish council had been doing about it , what Solihull Council was doing about it . ''
The village has a community Speedwatch group which aims to act as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of motorists paying little attention to the 30mph limit .
The speed is seen as a particular concern because of narrow pavements and a sharp bend at the turn into Solihull Road , where several vehicles have previously lost control .
Buildings have been hit several times and the wall of the historic church , St Mary and St Bartholomew , was also damaged in years gone by .
One resident reported there had been `` a few smashes '' , with one cottage having been hit on several occasions .
Aside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Road Safety Fund will also provide £20,000 to make improvements to a dangerous crossroads at Hodgetts Lane/Waste Lane , in Berkswell .
Although with Solihull having a total of £2.4million t o draw on , there is likely to be a fresh push for community groups to bring forward ideas to make local routes safer .
Covid-19 had derailed plans to hold consultations over the summer and autumn , although Cllr David Cole ( Lab , Kingshurst & Fordbridge ) said he would be keen to see video conferences with parish councils about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are interested could tune in and listen to your advice on this , '' he told highways officers last week .
`` I really think that 's the way forward at the moment with these restrictions . ''
Paul Tovey , a council highways officer , said his team would be happy to explore the option .

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Speed bumps are to be installed in a Solihull village centre in response to long-running concerns about drivers racing through at dangerous speeds.
Campaigners are delighted that a gauntlet of traffic-calming measures is at last taking shape on the main route through Hampton-in-Arden.
There have been several cases of homes and buildings being hit by vehicles in the past 20 years and a walker was badly hurt in a collision in 2016.
While a scheme to slow down speeders has been on the cards for some time, a number of previous funding bids have failed.
Now the first phase of the project, which will also include road signs and a pedestrian refuge, is finally moving forward - with £60,000 to be spent on the measures.
It is hoped that work could get underway on High Street/Meriden Road within the next 12 months.
Mike Blomer, a Hampton resident and chair of the parish council, admitted speed bumps had their critics but warned doing nothing was too much of a risk.
"Of course it was immediately apparent that there would a problem with funding, so we have broken it down into a number of phases," he said.
(Image: Solihull Council)
£35,000 is set to be drawn from HS2's Road Safety Fund, with the remainder of the money being raised by the parish council council itself.
"We recognise that speed humps aren't popular with everybody," said Mr Blomer.
"If something did happen, residents would want to know afterwards what the parish council had been doing about it, what Solihull Council was doing about it."
The village has a community Speedwatch group which aims to act as a deterrent and has clocked an alarming number of motorists paying little attention to the 30mph limit.
The speed is seen as a particular concern because of narrow pavements and a sharp bend at the turn into Solihull Road, where several vehicles have previously lost control.
Buildings have been hit several times and the wall of the historic church, St Mary and St Bartholomew, was also damaged in years gone by. One resident reported there had been "a few smashes", with one cottage having been hit on several occasions.
Aside from the Hampton scheme, the HS2 Road Safety Fund will also provide £20,000 to make improvements to a dangerous crossroads at Hodgetts Lane/Waste Lane, in Berkswell.
Although with Solihull having a total of £2.4million t o draw on, there is likely to be a fresh push for community groups to bring forward ideas to make local routes safer.
Covid-19 had derailed plans to hold consultations over the summer and autumn, although Cllr David Cole (Lab, Kingshurst & Fordbridge) said he would be keen to see video conferences with parish councils about what was on offer.
"Those who are interested could tune in and listen to your advice on this," he told highways officers last week.
"I really think that's the way forward at the moment with these restrictions."
Paul Tovey, a council highways officer, said his team would be happy to explore the option.


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Cadbury releases rare new chocolate bar for very limited time only

If you want to grab your hands on a piece of history then this might be your only chance .
Legendary chocolate maker Cadbury has teamed up with Liverpool Football Club as an official partner .
In return , the Birmingham-founded company has gifted 50,000 limited edition champions Dairy Milk bars to a wide selection of Reds supporters .
Samantha Greenwood , global brand director at Cadbury , said : “ We are very proud to be working with Liverpool FC in this way .
`` It is a brand that truly embodies the Cadbury mentality of working together to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Programme will make a huge difference to the people of Liverpool whose jobs and prospects have been impacted by the pandemic .
`` By supporting this , we hope we can do our part to help the economic recovery of the area and the UK as a whole.
” The bars are currently available on the LFC store and you can buy one for £2.50 .
Only 60,000 are going to be made and when they are gone , they are gone so be quick !
Matt Scammell , commercial director at Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cadbury are both passionate about the importance of community , so this is a great opportunity to build on those common values and help those whose employment has been impacted by the pandemic into new roles .
“ Cadbury has a long history of generosity and we ’ re excited to be partnering with them , celebrating traditions and culture whilst uniting people in a new way.
” The limited edition bars will be available for fans to buy in official club stores .
All proceeds going to LFC Foundation in support of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purchase their own champions bar here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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If you want to grab your hands on a piece of history then this might be your only chance.
Legendary chocolate maker Cadbury has teamed up with Liverpool Football Club as an official partner.
In return, the Birmingham-founded company has gifted 50,000 limited edition champions Dairy Milk bars to a wide selection of Reds supporters.
Samantha Greenwood, global brand director at Cadbury, said: “We are very proud to be working with Liverpool FC in this way.
"It is a brand that truly embodies the Cadbury mentality of working together to help others.
"The Virtual Employability Programme will make a huge difference to the people of Liverpool whose jobs and prospects have been impacted by the pandemic.
"By supporting this, we hope we can do our part to help the economic recovery of the area and the UK as a whole.”
The bars are currently available on the LFC store and you can buy one for £2.50.
Only 60,000 are going to be made and when they are gone, they are gone so be quick!
(Image: Liverpool Football Club)
Matt Scammell, commercial director at Liverpool FC, said: “LFC and Cadbury are both passionate about the importance of community, so this is a great opportunity to build on those common values and help those whose employment has been impacted by the pandemic into new roles.
“Cadbury has a long history of generosity and we’re excited to be partnering with them, celebrating traditions and culture whilst uniting people in a new way.”
The limited edition bars will be available for fans to buy in official club stores.
All proceeds going to LFC Foundation in support of the Virtual Employability Programme.
Fans can purchase their own champions bar here .


birminghammail--2020-09-07--Pundit explains why Wilson is choosing Newcastle over Villa

Charlie Adam reckons Callum Wilson might ’ ve opted for Newcastle United over Aston Villa because he feels that on Tyneside he has a better chance of surviving in the Premier League .
Bournemouth striker Wilson is on the verge of joining the Magpies for around £20m , on a deal believed to run for at least four years .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Villa newsletter The 28-year-old was also wanted by Villa , but they withdrew their interest when it became apparent that the England international favoured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park over Villa Park .
Midfielder and pundit Adam sees Wilson ’ s impending move to Newcastle as a bargain signing for the club and backed him to grasp his opportunity as the new man to lead the line for the North East club .
The Scot did , though , tip Villa to go big in their transfer spending before the window closes in October .
“ I think you have to look at what ’ s best for your football career , ” he told BBC Radio 5Live .
“ Where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things ?
“ I think Newcastle is a wonderful football club and a big football club .
He probably thinks his best chance of staying in the Premier League is at Newcastle .
“ Aston Villa are known for spending money , which I think they will in this window again , but if I had the choice ... if he can go up and score goals in front of the Geordie faithful , he will be a hero up there .
“ He can see that having a better beneficial factor for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great move for Newcastle and at £20million , I think it is a steal .
“ It is a big decision for him , but I think he is making the right decision .
Newcastle is a great move for him .
”

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Charlie Adam reckons Callum Wilson might’ve opted for Newcastle United over Aston Villa because he feels that on Tyneside he has a better chance of surviving in the Premier League.
Bournemouth striker Wilson is on the verge of joining the Magpies for around £20m, on a deal believed to run for at least four years.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Villa newsletter
The 28-year-old was also wanted by Villa, but they withdrew their interest when it became apparent that the England international favoured a move to St James’s Park over Villa Park.
Midfielder and pundit Adam sees Wilson’s impending move to Newcastle as a bargain signing for the club and backed him to grasp his opportunity as the new man to lead the line for the North East club.
The Scot did, though, tip Villa to go big in their transfer spending before the window closes in October.
“I think you have to look at what’s best for your football career,” he told BBC Radio 5Live. “Where are you going to achieve the best things?
“I think Newcastle is a wonderful football club and a big football club. He probably thinks his best chance of staying in the Premier League is at Newcastle.
“Aston Villa are known for spending money, which I think they will in this window again, but if I had the choice...if he can go up and score goals in front of the Geordie faithful, he will be a hero up there.
“He can see that having a better beneficial factor for his career. It’s a great move for Newcastle and at £20million, I think it is a steal.
“It is a big decision for him, but I think he is making the right decision. Newcastle is a great move for him.”