birminghammail--2020-11-11--Mikel San Jose already targeting 'second home' at Birmingham City

Mikel San Jose hopes to make Birmingham his ‘ second home ’ and stay with Blues beyond the end of his current contract .
The former Spain international became a Birmingham City player in the summer when he brought the curtain down on a long career with Athletic Bilbao .
The veteran of more than 300 La Liga games signed a two-year deal and after a few weeks playing catch-up with his conditioning has now made six appearances for Aitor Karanka ’ s team .
He has moved his wife and young family to the area and has started putting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him a cult hero with the Basque outfit .
“ I hope so , ” he told BirminghamLive .
“ I hope to be here for more than two years that I signed .
You never know .
I feel really good here , “ I feel OK in the club , the changing room , at home , the kids are really happy so everything is going OK. “ Football will decide if I am here more time but right now I am really happy and of course I will be here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will become home for sure .
“ I have moved with my wife and children , we have two , four and five years , they started school on Monday , it has been a long wait to get them in school but finally they have started now , they are really happy .
“ It ’ s sad the way we are living with Covid but everything apart from that is really nice .
`` It is not difficult to come to this country because I was here before in Liverpool for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force his way into Rafael Benitez ’ s first team but in 2009 fulfilled a childhood dream by signing for Bilbao .
However , when a parting of the ways became unavoidable more than a decade later , he began looking at a move back to England - and to a project that was about building some lasting .
He has made an impressive transition from the Spanish top flight to the English second tier , coping with the physicality .
“ I didn ’ t know what to expect after being 11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were like a family and friends , everyone from Basque country with the same way of living .
“ Everyone has received me really well .
I felt from the first moment it was a really nice changing room and we are creating a really nice atmosphere .
“ I think La Liga is more tactical , maybe more technical , here is maybe more physical , more attacking football – not a lot of control of the ball , move forward and backwards .
“ I think I am doing well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we were a really physical team , it is not a change for me .
I am enjoying it .
”

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Mikel San Jose hopes to make Birmingham his ‘second home’ and stay with Blues beyond the end of his current contract.
The former Spain international became a Birmingham City player in the summer when he brought the curtain down on a long career with Athletic Bilbao.
The veteran of more than 300 La Liga games signed a two-year deal and after a few weeks playing catch-up with his conditioning has now made six appearances for Aitor Karanka’s team.
He has moved his wife and young family to the area and has started putting down roots in the way that made him a cult hero with the Basque outfit.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“I hope so,” he told BirminghamLive. “I hope to be here for more than two years that I signed. You never know. I feel really good here,
“I feel OK in the club, the changing room, at home, the kids are really happy so everything is going OK.
“Football will decide if I am here more time but right now I am really happy and of course I will be here for at least two years and it will become home for sure.
“I have moved with my wife and children, we have two, four and five years, they started school on Monday, it has been a long wait to get them in school but finally they have started now, they are really happy.
“It’s sad the way we are living with Covid but everything apart from that is really nice.
"It is not difficult to come to this country because I was here before in Liverpool for two years.”
He was unable to force his way into Rafael Benitez’s first team but in 2009 fulfilled a childhood dream by signing for Bilbao.
However, when a parting of the ways became unavoidable more than a decade later, he began looking at a move back to England - and to a project that was about building some lasting.
He has made an impressive transition from the Spanish top flight to the English second tier, coping with the physicality.
“I didn’t know what to expect after being 11 years in a changing room where we were like a family and friends, everyone from Basque country with the same way of living.
“Everyone has received me really well. I felt from the first moment it was a really nice changing room and we are creating a really nice atmosphere.
“I think La Liga is more tactical, maybe more technical, here is maybe more physical, more attacking football – not a lot of control of the ball, move forward and backwards.
“I think I am doing well, I feel really comfortable, in Bilbao we were a really physical team, it is not a change for me. I am enjoying it.”


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Boy, 15, arrested as cops find large machete under car in 'knife crime hotspot'

A schoolboy was arrested after police found a large machete hidden beneath a car in a 'hotspot ' for knife crime .
The suspect , aged just 15 , reportedly admitted to possessing the weapon after the discovery nearby in Handsworth Wood on Monday ( Nov 9 ) .
He was referred to the Youth Offending Service while his older friends , 16 and 17 , were taken home where officers 'spoke to ' their parents .
Officers were patrolling hotspot areas of the city as part of Operation Sceptre when they stopped the three teenagers who they believed were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which happens twice a year , will see police carry out dedicated patrols to tackle knife crime this week .
Sharing news of the arrest to its social media , Birmingham Police wrote : `` We ’ re carrying out dedicated patrols to tackle knife crime this week as part of Operation Sceptre – a national campaign which happens twice a year to support the work carried out all year round to keep communities safe .
`` Our officers are patrolling hot spots areas and on Monday evening ( 9 Nov ) in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were seen acting suspiciously .
`` They were stopped and searched but nothing was found , however a large machete was found under a car nearby .
One of the boys , aged 15 , admitted possessing the knife and was arrested .
`` He has been referred to the Youth Offending Service .
His friends , aged 17 and 16 , were taken home and their parents were spoken to . ''
The force continued to warn of the consequences of knife crime , adding : `` Knives have a devastating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victims and their families , but for offenders too and their families . ''

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A schoolboy was arrested after police found a large machete hidden beneath a car in a 'hotspot' for knife crime.
The suspect, aged just 15, reportedly admitted to possessing the weapon after the discovery nearby in Handsworth Wood on Monday (Nov 9).
He was referred to the Youth Offending Service while his older friends, 16 and 17, were taken home where officers 'spoke to' their parents.
Officers were patrolling hotspot areas of the city as part of Operation Sceptre when they stopped the three teenagers who they believed were acting suspiciously.
The national campaign, which happens twice a year, will see police carry out dedicated patrols to tackle knife crime this week.
Sharing news of the arrest to its social media, Birmingham Police wrote: "We’re carrying out dedicated patrols to tackle knife crime this week as part of Operation Sceptre – a national campaign which happens twice a year to support the work carried out all year round to keep communities safe.
"Our officers are patrolling hot spots areas and on Monday evening (9 Nov) in Handsworth Wood three teenagers were stopped after they were seen acting suspiciously.
"They were stopped and searched but nothing was found, however a large machete was found under a car nearby. One of the boys, aged 15, admitted possessing the knife and was arrested.
"He has been referred to the Youth Offending Service. His friends, aged 17 and 16, were taken home and their parents were spoken to."
The force continued to warn of the consequences of knife crime, adding: "Knives have a devastating impact on lives – not just for victims and their families, but for offenders too and their families."


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Next customers adore 'cosy' loungewear that fans say they 'need'

Next customers have been taken in by some `` super comfy '' loungewear that people are rushing out to buy .
The retailer is one of the many stores hoping to make up the loss of sales during the second lockdown by using its online store .
Next has just revealed that it wo n't be doing a Black Friday sale which is a big blow for bargain hunter .
It confirmed the news to the Mirror which many people will be upset about .
However , many customers have still been snapping up some of its loungewear in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trousers and slippers .
All three are currently available on the Next store with the hoodie on sale for £34 , £34 for the trousers and £25 for the slippers .
Next posted its on its Instagram page to the joy of many of its customers .
One person wrote : `` Have purchased the sequin trousers and they are fantastic .
So comfortable and yet so glamorous .
love them .
Xmas day at home .
ideal ! ''
A second person wrote : `` this stuff looks so comfy '' while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this in this pic please '' All three of the items will send you back a pretty penny but if you have got to have it , you 've got to have it .
Next recently pre-tax loss of £16.5million due to lockdown .
This compared to profits of £327.4million in the same period last year .
On an underlying basis , it saw profits crash 97 % to £9 million , though it had initially expected to be loss-making .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Next customers have been taken in by some "super comfy" loungewear that people are rushing out to buy.
The retailer is one of the many stores hoping to make up the loss of sales during the second lockdown by using its online store.
Next has just revealed that it won't be doing a Black Friday sale which is a big blow for bargain hunter. It confirmed the news to the Mirror which many people will be upset about.
However, many customers have still been snapping up some of its loungewear in its online store, specifically a hoodie, trousers and slippers.
All three are currently available on the Next store with the hoodie on sale for £34, £34 for the trousers and £25 for the slippers.
Next posted its on its Instagram page to the joy of many of its customers. One person wrote: "Have purchased the sequin trousers and they are fantastic. So comfortable and yet so glamorous. love them. Xmas day at home. ideal !"
A second person wrote: "this stuff looks so comfy" while a third person wrote: "all of this in this pic please"
All three of the items will send you back a pretty penny but if you have got to have it, you've got to have it.
Next recently pre-tax loss of £16.5million due to lockdown. This compared to profits of £327.4million in the same period last year.
On an underlying basis, it saw profits crash 97% to £9 million, though it had initially expected to be loss-making.


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Police appeal after shotgun fired at huge Covid rule-breaking street party

Police have issued an appeal to trace three men - more than three months after gunshots were fired at a city street party .
Detectives want to speak to the trio in connection with the large-scale disorder which flared on Dudley Road in Winson Green .
A gunman is alleged to have blasted a shotgun into a crowd of more than 100 revellers who had gathered in the early hours of August 3 .
Disorder broke out a short time after dozens were filmed drinking , dancing and socialising as loud music filled the street at an event in breach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out , gunshots were heard and the crowd could be seen dispersing on CCTV , with 'everyone running ' from the area .
Five people suffered pellet injuries during the incident .
An appeal , issued today - November 11 - by West Midlands Police read : `` We want to speak to these men following disorder at a street party in Birmingham .
`` A gun was fired and five people suffered pellet injuries in Dudley Road , Winson Green , on 3 August .
`` A large crowd was understood to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which breached Covid-19 restrictions - when disorder broke out .
`` We are still trying to trace these men and need your help .
`` Anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat , or by calling 101 , and quote 20BW/182144Y/20 . ''
* A 20-year-old man has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence , and assault offences , and remanded in custody .
An 18-year-old is also currently on police bail in relation to the incident .

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Police have issued an appeal to trace three men - more than three months after gunshots were fired at a city street party.
Detectives want to speak to the trio in connection with the large-scale disorder which flared on Dudley Road in Winson Green.
A gunman is alleged to have blasted a shotgun into a crowd of more than 100 revellers who had gathered in the early hours of August 3.
Disorder broke out a short time after dozens were filmed drinking, dancing and socialising as loud music filled the street at an event in breach of Covid-19 restrictions.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
As trouble broke out, gunshots were heard and the crowd could be seen dispersing on CCTV, with 'everyone running' from the area.
Five people suffered pellet injuries during the incident.
An appeal, issued today - November 11 - by West Midlands Police read: "We want to speak to these men following disorder at a street party in Birmingham.
"A gun was fired and five people suffered pellet injuries in Dudley Road, Winson Green, on 3 August.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
"A large crowd was understood to have gathered at the street party - which breached Covid-19 restrictions - when disorder broke out.
"We are still trying to trace these men and need your help.
"Anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat, or by calling 101, and quote 20BW/182144Y/20."
* A 20-year-old man has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, and assault offences, and remanded in custody. An 18-year-old is also currently on police bail in relation to the incident.


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Wolves are convinced Corbeanu ‘can be anything he wants to be’

Fabio Silva stole the show for Wolverhampton Wanderers ’ young guns against Doncaster Rovers .
Silva , a club-record £35million acquisition from FC Porto in September , netted his first goals for Wolves in the Papa John ’ s Trophy to earn his slice of praise from an excited fanbase .
But there ’ s another 18-year-old forward within Wolves ’ ranks who is beginning to make a name for himself .
Young Theo Corbeanu played the supporting role to Silva at the Keepmoat , but there ’ s no denying that he ’ s elevated himself to the position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under-23s at the beginning of this campaign .
He ’ s only notched a couple of goals in seven Premier League 2 outings , while he ’ s also waiting for his first in the competition Wolves progressed in on Tuesday night .
It ’ s the potential of Corbeanu which is so exciting though .
A unique ability to change pace without it being noticeable , equally brilliant technique with either foot which makes you question which is the stronger , and a chiselled frame that belies his tender years are just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Collins can name a lot more : “ He ’ s athletic , tall , can head it , can defend , can dribble past people and score , he can shoot , he can pass , he ’ s both footed , he ’ s got a bit of everything.
” Collins has only recently introduced Corbeanu to Wolves ’ second string after the Canadian , who is of Romanian heritage , stood out for the club ’ s under-18s last year .
Already , though , Corbeanu has become the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you watch them .
“ Theo can be anything he wants to be , ” Collins continues .
“ He ’ s an outstanding prospect .
But , and there ’ s always a but with these players , he ’ s got to learn to play within the system and play with the others , adapt his game for different scenarios and situations .
“ He ’ s got to keep improving and he knows that , he ’ s another good kid who wants to learn - but I think Theo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be.
” Corbeanu started out as a goalkeeper before realising he had a knack for scoring goals at the age of eight .
He is by no means an out-and-out centre-forward however and tends to drift wide where he can isolate opposition players in one-v-one situations .
“ He can be wide - in our system with the three up front that ’ s probably his best position - but up front when we ’ ve got TP ( Taylor Perry ) and Meritan ( Shabani ) who can run through from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s a problem if he drifts wide as well , ” Collins explained .
“ When he picks the ball up wide he ’ s very dangerous at taking his man on .
“ We analyse that every game : Is he getting in the box enough ?
Is he getting on the end of things ?
Or is he just good on the eye ?
“ He ’ s got to improve that area but what he ’ s offering the team at the moment is excellent.
” While Silva @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ academy picked up Corbeanu relatively simply .
He was visiting the UK a couple of years ago and an agent recommended him to academy boss Scott Sellars .
He aced his trial period and signed a two-year scholarship deal which has since been upgraded to a professional contract until 2023 .
“ Over his scholarship years with us it was a bit up and down , a bit inconsistent , but you ’ d always see glimpses of what he could be , ” said Sellars .
`` He ’ s probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has come back and it ’ s had a positive effect on .
He ’ s come back as a first year professional and I think he ’ s surprised everybody .
He ’ s been excellent .
“ From minute one of pre-season he ’ s probably been our best player .
He ’ s a player that whenever he gets the ball he excites me , I think something is going to happen.
” Corbeanu is well known to Nuno Espirito Santo and continues to train regularly with the first team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teammates do .
He was a surprise inclusion in the squad which toured China last year and remains on Nuno ’ s radar .
Sellars added : “ I have no doubt that come January we ’ re going to have lots of enquiries from people wanting to take him on loan because of how he ’ s performing .
”

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Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster Theo Corbeanu is now a fully-fledged member of Nuno Espirito Santo's senior setup.
The Canadian-born Romanian citizen, a winger, has impressed in the Under-23s and scored a brace in a 4-2 win at West Bromwich Albion earlier this month that has reinforced Nuno's view that he is ready for a matchday squad.
He was named among nine substitutes, now allowed after a vote, for the Premier League match against Burnley at Turf Moor on Monday evening.
After scoring four times in nine Premier League 2 games, it is the potential of Corbeanu which is so exciting.
A unique ability to change pace without it being noticeable, equally brilliant technique with either foot which makes you question which is the stronger, and a chiselled frame that belies his tender years are just three of Corbeanu’s stand-out features.
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Under-23s boss James Collins can name a lot more: “He’s athletic, tall, can head it, can defend, can dribble past people and score, he can shoot, he can pass, he’s both footed, he’s got a bit of everything.”
Collins has only recently introduced Corbeanu to Wolves’ second string after the Canadian, who is of Romanian heritage, stood out for the club’s under-18s last year.
Already, though, Corbeanu has become the player who instantly grabs your attention when you watch them.
“Theo can be anything he wants to be,” Collins continues. “He’s an outstanding prospect. But, and there’s always a but with these players, he’s got to learn to play within the system and play with the others, adapt his game for different scenarios and situations.
“He’s got to keep improving and he knows that, he’s another good kid who wants to learn - but I think Theo can be as good as he wants to be.”
Corbeanu started out as a goalkeeper before realising he had a knack for scoring goals at the age of eight. He is by no means an out-and-out centre-forward however and tends to drift wide where he can isolate opposition players in one-v-one situations.
“He can be wide - in our system with the three up front that’s probably his best position - but up front when we’ve got TP (Taylor Perry) and Meritan (Shabani) who can run through from midfield, I don’t think it’s a problem if he drifts wide as well,” Collins explained. “When he picks the ball up wide he’s very dangerous at taking his man on.
“We analyse that every game: Is he getting in the box enough? Is he getting on the end of things? Or is he just good on the eye?
“He’s got to improve that area but what he’s offering the team at the moment is excellent.”
While Fabio Silva - who is the same age as the Canadian - arrived for an enormous fee, Wolves ’ academy picked up Corbeanu relatively simply. He was visiting the UK a couple of years ago and an agent recommended him to academy boss Scott Sellars.
He aced his trial period and signed a two-year scholarship deal which has since been upgraded to a professional contract until 2023.
“Over his scholarship years with us it was a bit up and down, a bit inconsistent, but you’d always see glimpses of what he could be,” said Sellars. "He’s probably one, with the lockdown, who has come back and it’s had a positive effect on. He’s come back as a first year professional and I think he’s surprised everybody. He’s been excellent.
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“From minute one of pre-season he’s probably been our best player. He’s a player that whenever he gets the ball he excites me, I think something is going to happen.”
Corbeanu is well known to Nuno and trains regularly with the first team, just as many of his under-23 teammates do. He was a surprise inclusion in the squad which toured China last year.
Sellars added: “I have no doubt that come January we’re going to have lots of enquiries from people wanting to take him on loan because of how he’s performing.”


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Amazon is selling this hot tub for less than £300

There 's a bargain hot tub on sale on Amazon ahead of this year 's Black Friday sales .
The outdoor bubble Jacuzzi is from CosySpa and will set you back £299.99 .
This will fit four guests , while other options are available including a hot tub for six for £359.99 , while shoppers can also get cover and comfort set versions .
All of the sizes come with a filter , PVC ground sheet , inflation hose and an insulating top cover with safety locks .
The price is a little higher than B & M 's £280 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , with customers snapping up the bargain in stores across the country .
But with this Amazon one though you wo n't need to worry about your local store 's stock or queuing to get your hands on one , as the hot tub can be delivered to your door .
It 's also received positive reviews from customers with one saying : `` So easy to inflate instructions easy to follow nice and sturdy hottub '' .
Another added : `` Really good .
Very happy with it , and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While a third says : `` Nice design touches with the heat reflective lid and bottom sheet '' .
To find out more details on the hot tub go to the Amazon website here .

There's a bargain hot tub on sale on Amazon ahead of this year's Black Friday sales.
The outdoor bubble Jacuzzi is from CosySpa and will set you back £299.99.
This will fit four guests, while other options are available including a hot tub for six for £359.99, while shoppers can also get cover and comfort set versions.
All of the sizes come with a filter, PVC ground sheet, inflation hose and an insulating top cover with safety locks.
The price is a little higher than B&M's £280 hot tub that went viral earlier this year, with customers snapping up the bargain in stores across the country.
But with this Amazon one though you won't need to worry about your local store's stock or queuing to get your hands on one, as the hot tub can be delivered to your door.
It's also received positive reviews from customers with one saying: "So easy to inflate instructions easy to follow nice and sturdy hottub".
Another added: "Really good. Very happy with it, and we've been living in it...".
While a third says: "Nice design touches with the heat reflective lid and bottom sheet".
To find out more details on the hot tub go to the Amazon website here.


birminghammail--2020-11-11--100,000 women in the UK could be entitled to hidden £2,200 extra a year

As many as 100,000 women could bag an extra £2,200 a year - all by making a phone call .
There are fears as many as 100k women across the country are missing out on the state pension they claim .
A hidden rule means they could be entitled to £2,200 a year , if they got divorced after turning 60 .
The rule was brought to light by former pensions minister Sir Steve Webb , who told Mirror Online : “ Every year thousands of women over state pension age get divorced , but many may not be aware @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pension boost as a result .
`` Worryingly even some financial advisers , lawyers and DWP call handlers seem to be unaware of the rules . ''
To qualify for the uplift , you need to have reached state pension age before April 6 2016 .
If you started claiming when you were married , but subsequently divorced , you could be in line for the full state pension of £134.25 rather than the `` married woman ’ s rate '' of just £80.45 .
Karin Walker , founder of KGW Family Law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too often disregarded during divorce when they should be one of the first things looked at.
” Webb added : `` Any woman who reached pension age before April 6 2016 and has since got divorced should contact the DWP if she is not on a full basic state pension to see if she is entitled to an increase based on her ex-husband 's contributions . ''
A DWP spokesman said : `` It is important that individuals report to us any change of circumstances that may affect their state pension entitlement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ information on this in the leaflet that accompanies the uprating notifications we send to pensioners every year .
We would encourage anyone who thinks they have failed to claim a state pension increase they are eligible for to contact the Department .
`` DWP have dedicated , trained teams for handling all contacts from customers asking us to check their pension entitlement . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (James Andrews, James Rodger)

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As many as 100,000 women could bag an extra £2,200 a year - all by making a phone call.
There are fears as many as 100k women across the country are missing out on the state pension they claim.
A hidden rule means they could be entitled to £2,200 a year, if they got divorced after turning 60.
The rule was brought to light by former pensions minister Sir Steve Webb, who told Mirror Online : “Every year thousands of women over state pension age get divorced, but many may not be aware that they can qualify for a state pension boost as a result.
"Worryingly even some financial advisers, lawyers and DWP call handlers seem to be unaware of the rules."
To qualify for the uplift, you need to have reached state pension age before April 6 2016.
If you started claiming when you were married, but subsequently divorced, you could be in line for the full state pension of £134.25 rather than the "married woman’s rate" of just £80.45.
Karin Walker, founder of KGW Family Law said: “State pensions are all too often disregarded during divorce when they should be one of the first things looked at.”
Webb added: "Any woman who reached pension age before April 6 2016 and has since got divorced should contact the DWP if she is not on a full basic state pension to see if she is entitled to an increase based on her ex-husband's contributions."
A DWP spokesman said: "It is important that individuals report to us any change of circumstances that may affect their state pension entitlement.
"As a reminder, we include information on this in the leaflet that accompanies the uprating notifications we send to pensioners every year. We would encourage anyone who thinks they have failed to claim a state pension increase they are eligible for to contact the Department.
"DWP have dedicated, trained teams for handling all contacts from customers asking us to check their pension entitlement."


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Gareth Southgate receives Ezri Konsa demand after England injury

Aston Villa fans are calling on Gareth Southgate to hand Ezri Konsa his first senior England call-up after the injury to Joe Gomez .
Liverpool defender Gomez suffered an injury in England training and although the nature of the problem is n't yet specified , reports suggest it could keep him out of action for some time .
The 23-year-old , who helped Liverpool to the Premier League title last season , had been preparing for the friendly against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday , while the Three Lions also have Nations League games coming up with Belgium and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the injury comes as a huge blow for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp with centre-half Virgil van Dijk and full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold already out , it means England are lacking cover as they play three times in just six days during what is already a hectic schedule for players .
Southgate called up former Birmingham City midfielder Jude Bellingham earlier this week after Southampton 's James Ward-Prowse withdrew from the squad and Villa fans think Konsa should be a replacement for Gomez if Southgate wants to reinforce his options .
Konsa , a £12million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been capped at Under-21s level , is already being tipped as Villa 's next England international having struck up a formidable partnership with Three Lions star Tyrone Mings in defence .
Boss Dean Smith said earlier this season : `` I do believe he 's got that kind of potential and , knowing the lad , that 's something he wants to enhance as well .
`` He 's got a great partnership going at the moment with Tyrone Mings .
They 've got a really good understanding . ''
Here 's what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... @ ColoMan_ : Konsa should be in the England squad if Southgate claims he picks players on form .
@ LJillings : You know what to do Gareth .
@ Ben_Davies02 : Ezri Konsa 100 % deserves a call up , he ’ s been much better than the CBs already in the squad .
@ TheVillaHome : Only one man to be called in to replace Gomes .
@ Mike_Land10 : If England are going to call up young players like Bellingham then why not give Ezri Konsa a chance ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ us since the last lockdown was lifted .
And a million miles better than players like Maguire .
@ Ben_windridge : Call up Konsa please Gareth , all will be forgiven .

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Aston Villa fans are calling on Gareth Southgate to hand Ezri Konsa his first senior England call-up after the injury to Joe Gomez.
Liverpool defender Gomez suffered an injury in England training and although the nature of the problem isn't yet specified, reports suggest it could keep him out of action for some time.
The 23-year-old, who helped Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, had been preparing for the friendly against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, while the Three Lions also have Nations League games coming up with Belgium and Iceland to decide their group.
While the injury comes as a huge blow for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp with centre-half Virgil van Dijk and full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold already out, it means England are lacking cover as they play three times in just six days during what is already a hectic schedule for players.
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Southgate called up former Birmingham City midfielder Jude Bellingham earlier this week after Southampton's James Ward-Prowse withdrew from the squad and Villa fans think Konsa should be a replacement for Gomez if Southgate wants to reinforce his options.
Konsa, a £12million buy from Brentford last year who has been capped at Under-21s level, is already being tipped as Villa's next England international having struck up a formidable partnership with Three Lions star Tyrone Mings in defence.
Boss Dean Smith said earlier this season: "I do believe he's got that kind of potential and, knowing the lad, that's something he wants to enhance as well.
"He's got a great partnership going at the moment with Tyrone Mings. They've got a really good understanding."
Here's what Villa fans are saying on social media...
@iLennox01: Ezri Konsa to step in?
@ColoMan_: Konsa should be in the England squad if Southgate claims he picks players on form.
@LJillings: You know what to do Gareth.
@Ben_Davies02: Ezri Konsa 100% deserves a call up, he’s been much better than the CBs already in the squad.
@TheVillaHome: Only one man to be called in to replace Gomes.
@Mike_Land10: If England are going to call up young players like Bellingham then why not give Ezri Konsa a chance?! He has been utterly brilliant for us since the last lockdown was lifted. And a million miles better than players like Maguire.
@Ben_windridge: Call up Konsa please Gareth, all will be forgiven.
@Connor_AVFC: #CallUpKonsa


birminghammail--2020-11-11--The Queen's reason for refusing to abdicate is all because of Charlotte

The Queen is reportedly reluctant to step down from her role - and it 's because of Princess Charlotte .
Reports on Wednesday in the United States have suggested Prince Charles is `` ready '' to take over the throne as soon as The Queen decides to step down .
Previous reports had surfaced earlier this year , suggesting the Queen wo n't abdicate until she reaches the age of 95 .
But apparently , the Queen could last a little while longer than just next year , according to some Royal Family insiders and experts .
They have discussed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from duties to give Prince Charles the throne .
And they reckon it is very unlikely - and it is all to do with her great-granddaughter 's popularity .
`` I don ’ t think she ’ s going anywhere , anytime soon , ’ '' a royal insider told the Daily Mail last year .
`` I think the Queen sees what those boys and their wives bring… Princess Charlotte , already at the age of 3 , knows how to work a crowd .
`` Maybe now through her grandchildren she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the crest of that wave . ''
The line of succession currently finds The Prince of Wales at the top , next in line to take over should the Queen decide to retire .
Prince Charles is followed by his eldest son , Prince William , The Duke of Cambridge , with Prince George of Cambridge , Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince Louis of Cambridge , his three children with Kate Middleton , next .
The Duke of Sussex , Prince Harry , falls next .

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The Queen is reportedly reluctant to step down from her role - and it's because of Princess Charlotte.
Reports on Wednesday in the United States have suggested Prince Charles is "ready" to take over the throne as soon as The Queen decides to step down.
Previous reports had surfaced earlier this year, suggesting the Queen won't abdicate until she reaches the age of 95.
(Image: Ben Stansall/PA Wire)
But apparently, the Queen could last a little while longer than just next year, according to some Royal Family insiders and experts.
They have discussed the chances of Queen Elizabeth stepping away from duties to give Prince Charles the throne.
And they reckon it is very unlikely - and it is all to do with her great-granddaughter's popularity.
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"I don’t think she’s going anywhere, anytime soon,’" a royal insider told the Daily Mail last year.
"I think the Queen sees what those boys and their wives bring… Princess Charlotte, already at the age of 3, knows how to work a crowd.
"Maybe now through her grandchildren she can see a way of just staying on the crest of that wave."
The line of succession currently finds The Prince of Wales at the top, next in line to take over should the Queen decide to retire.
Prince Charles is followed by his eldest son, Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, with Prince George of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince Louis of Cambridge, his three children with Kate Middleton, next.
The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, falls next.


birminghammail--2020-11-11--Brum parents call for GCSEs and A-Levels to be cancelled in 2021

Concerned Birmingham parents are calling on the Government to cancel next year ’ s GCSE and A-Level exams .
The demand came after Welsh Education Minister Kirsty Williams announced their end of year exams would be replaced by coursework and other assessments , after disruption caused by the Covid pandemic .
Downing Street has insisted there 's no change to the position in England on exams as this is deemed the fairest way of judging student performance .
The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said : “ We have set out they will take place slightly later this year to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We fully understand that they have experienced considerable disruption and it is right that we give them and their teachers that extra time .
“ In addition to that we are also spending £1 billion on a catch-up programme to help schools and pupils make up for the lost time.
” But many parents in Birmingham reacted on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page by calling for the exams to scrapped across England .
Emma White said : `` Delaying them by three weeks is not enough to catch up on all that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surely is to cancel and grade on work , mock exams and predicted grades . ''
Kim Durrant agreed : `` They have missed more than the students of 2020 who didn ’ t sit them . ''
Tracey Breckles added : `` My son is worrying about it constantly .
They have missed so much it isn ’ t fair to expect them to catch up . ''
Data published on November 10 suggests Covid cases at 148 schools across the city , with more than 11,000 pupils forced to self-isolate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to offer lots of distance learning , many parents are concerned that their children still risk falling behind when they are not in school .
Sonia Hall said : `` My daughter has only been back a week and been sent home to isolate again for two weeks , it ’ s a nightmare . ''
For some , it is the uncertainty that is causing the most anguish amongst families facing important exams next year .
Nicola Downing said : `` The kids are in a right state not knowing what ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re super behind .
It is slowly destroying my daughter and I hate it . ''
Jill Huntington added : `` A decision needs to be made very soon so that pupils know what ’ s happening . ''
The move by the Welsh Government will certainly ramp up pressure on Education Secretary Gavin Williamson over whether the 2021 GCSEs and A-Levels should go ahead in England .
He has insisted next summer 's exams should go ahead following the exams fiasco in 2020 where thousands of students saw their marks downgraded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is working on measures to ensure exams can be held across England and is due to reveal plans for this soon .
A spokesperson told BirminghamLive : “ Exams are the fairest way of judging a student ’ s performance , which is why Ofqual and the government all agree they should go ahead next year .
“ We are working closely with stakeholders on the measures needed to ensure exams can be held , and will set out plans over the coming weeks.
” The scrapping of exams in Wales has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Wales secretary of National Education Union , said it was `` critical that we do n't have a repeat of what happened this summer '' and called for a robust assessment process to ensure fairness for students .
He added : `` We only have a term and a half for young people before next summer 's grades are awarded .
So , we need as much flexibility in the system as possible now , as we know this is not a normal year , and young people will likely have times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' *Keep updated on family news and join the conversation by following our Brummie Mummies Facebook page .
You can also sign up to our weekly Brummie Mummies email newsletter and our Lemon Aid newsletter here

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Concerned Birmingham parents are calling on the Government to cancel next year’s GCSE and A-Level exams.
The demand came after Welsh Education Minister Kirsty Williams announced their end of year exams would be replaced by coursework and other assessments, after disruption caused by the Covid pandemic.
Downing Street has insisted there's no change to the position in England on exams as this is deemed the fairest way of judging student performance.
The Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “We have set out they will take place slightly later this year to give students more time to prepare.
(Image: PA)
“We fully understand that they have experienced considerable disruption and it is right that we give them and their teachers that extra time.
“In addition to that we are also spending £1 billion on a catch-up programme to help schools and pupils make up for the lost time.”
But many parents in Birmingham reacted on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page by calling for the exams to scrapped across England.
Emma White said: "Delaying them by three weeks is not enough to catch up on all that has been missed. The fairer way surely is to cancel and grade on work, mock exams and predicted grades."
Kim Durrant agreed: "They have missed more than the students of 2020 who didn’t sit them."
Tracey Breckles added: "My son is worrying about it constantly. They have missed so much it isn’t fair to expect them to catch up."
Data published on November 10 suggests Covid cases at 148 schools across the city, with more than 11,000 pupils forced to self-isolate.
Whilst many teachers are trying their best to offer lots of distance learning, many parents are concerned that their children still risk falling behind when they are not in school.
Sonia Hall said: "My daughter has only been back a week and been sent home to isolate again for two weeks, it’s a nightmare."
For some, it is the uncertainty that is causing the most anguish amongst families facing important exams next year.
Nicola Downing said: "The kids are in a right state not knowing what’s going on and feeling like they’re super behind. It is slowly destroying my daughter and I hate it."
Jill Huntington added: "A decision needs to be made very soon so that pupils know what’s happening."
The move by the Welsh Government will certainly ramp up pressure on Education Secretary Gavin Williamson over whether the 2021 GCSEs and A-Levels should go ahead in England.
Brummie Mummies Staying In Family Fun Looking for ideas on things to do at home with your kids throughout lockdown? Follow our Brummie Mummies Facebook page to be kept up to date - and sign up to our free Brummie Mummies email newsletter to have fresh ideas delivered to your inbox every week. We've also launched a brand new Lemon-Aid newsletter where you can get daily tips on how to survive lockdown with your family. And we've brought back the Chipper Club to bring you weekly projects your kids can enjoy without leaving the house.
He has insisted next summer's exams should go ahead following the exams fiasco in 2020 where thousands of students saw their marks downgraded.
The Department for Education says it is working on measures to ensure exams can be held across England and is due to reveal plans for this soon.
A spokesperson told BirminghamLive: “Exams are the fairest way of judging a student’s performance, which is why Ofqual and the government all agree they should go ahead next year.
“We are working closely with stakeholders on the measures needed to ensure exams can be held, and will set out plans over the coming weeks.”
The scrapping of exams in Wales has been welcomed by teaching unions.
David Evans, Wales secretary of National Education Union, said it was "critical that we don't have a repeat of what happened this summer" and called for a robust assessment process to ensure fairness for students.
He added: "We only have a term and a half for young people before next summer's grades are awarded. So, we need as much flexibility in the system as possible now, as we know this is not a normal year, and young people will likely have times when they are at home learning."
*Keep updated on family news and join the conversation by following our Brummie Mummies Facebook page. You can also sign up to our weekly Brummie Mummies email newsletter and our Lemon Aid newsletter here


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Timeline of violent events which has rocked the town

Violence on the streets of West Bromwich has been branded `` shocking '' by a Government minister .
The toll of serious crime in the town reached Parliament , where policing minister Kit Malthouse called on West Midlands Police to devote `` attention '' to the town .
Major incidents have seen armed street brawls , a hammer attack and a cop hit in the face with a firework .
Conservative MP for West Bromwich East , Nicola Richards , has kicked off a campaign to have more officers patrolling the town centre .
Replying to a question asked by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Malthouse said : `` I had a look at some of the incidents that have taken place in West Bromwich town centre , and it is a shocker , to be honest .
`` Hopefully , using the convening power of her office , she can pull all the various groups together , and the police and crime commissioner and the chief constable will pay attention too .
`` I recently had a good meeting with West Midlands Police to discuss their general violence reduction , with a particular focus on reducing murder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could do with some attention . ''
Below is a rundown of some of the shocking incidents which have took place in the town over the last six months .
Seven people were arrested after violence erupted in the town .
Officers on patrol spotted the fight on High Street , at around 3pm on Tuesday , June 16 .
Two men were taken to hospital for treatment and have since been arrested .
Four men , aged 18 , 28 , 33 and 46 , were in custody on suspicion of affray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while being treated for his injuries .
A woman was dragged to the ground by her hair during a violent attempted robbery .
Shocking footage showed the victim was then repeatedly punched and kicked as the thug attempted to steal her phone .
The attacker followed her from West Bromwich bus station before demanding her mobile phone on Cronehills Linkway at around 8pm on Thursday , July 23 .
A man was taken to hospital with slash wounds after he was attacked with a machete at a West Bromwich shopping centre .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ injuries to his leg and was taken to hospital after the attack at New Square on Tuesday , September 29 .
Some shoppers were said to have fled the area in panic and Claire 's – the accessory shop – was reported to have closed its shutters during the drama .
Eight people were arrested after a large street fight with machetes erupted .
Police seized a cache of weapons - including knives and blades - following the trouble in High Street at around 4.10pm on Wednesday , October 7 .
Some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the drama but were stopped in a Ford Fiesta by officers .
A number of knives , including combat and zombie style knives , were then found inside the motor .
A police officer was left with a facial injury after a gang threw lit fireworks into a crowd .
The shocking attack happened in High Street , West Bromwich , on Tuesday , October 20 , at 3.30pm .
An officer was hit in the face and was taken to hospital to be treated .
October 29 - Man hit over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was taken to hospital after being bludgeoned with a hammer during a violent street attack .
Police rushed to High Street after the victim , in his 30s , was hit at around 5pm on Thursday , October 29 .
The surrounding area , including Carter 's Green , was sealed off as urgent enquires were conducted .

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Violence on the streets of West Bromwich has been branded "shocking" by a Government minister.
The toll of serious crime in the town reached Parliament, where policing minister Kit Malthouse called on West Midlands Police to devote "attention" to the town.
Major incidents have seen armed street brawls, a hammer attack and a cop hit in the face with a firework.
Conservative MP for West Bromwich East, Nicola Richards, has kicked off a campaign to have more officers patrolling the town centre.
Replying to a question asked by Ms Richards in the Commons, Mr Malthouse said: "I had a look at some of the incidents that have taken place in West Bromwich town centre, and it is a shocker, to be honest.
"Hopefully, using the convening power of her office, she can pull all the various groups together, and the police and crime commissioner and the chief constable will pay attention too.
"I recently had a good meeting with West Midlands Police to discuss their general violence reduction, with a particular focus on reducing murder.
"It sounds like West Bromwich could do with some attention."
Below is a rundown of some of the shocking incidents which have took place in the town over the last six months.
June 16 - A brawl breaks out on West Bromwich High Street
Seven people were arrested after violence erupted in the town.
Officers on patrol spotted the fight on High Street, at around 3pm on Tuesday, June 16.
Two men were taken to hospital for treatment and have since been arrested.
Four men, aged 18, 28, 33 and 46, were in custody on suspicion of affray and a 45-year-old was detained at hospital, while being treated for his injuries.
July 23 - Thug launches brutal attack in robbery attempt
(Image: WMP)
A woman was dragged to the ground by her hair during a violent attempted robbery.
Shocking footage showed the victim was then repeatedly punched and kicked as the thug attempted to steal her phone.
The attacker followed her from West Bromwich bus station before demanding her mobile phone on Cronehills Linkway at around 8pm on Thursday, July 23.
September 29 - Man slashed with a machete
A man was taken to hospital with slash wounds after he was attacked with a machete at a West Bromwich shopping centre.
West Midlands Police said the 25-year-old suffered injuries to his leg and was taken to hospital after the attack at New Square on Tuesday, September 29.
Some shoppers were said to have fled the area in panic and Claire's – the accessory shop – was reported to have closed its shutters during the drama.
October 7 -A huge street fight with machetes breaks out
Eight people were arrested after a large street fight with machetes erupted.
Police seized a cache of weapons - including knives and blades - following the trouble in High Street at around 4.10pm on Wednesday, October 7.
Some of the armed youngsters fled the scene shortly after the drama but were stopped in a Ford Fiesta by officers.
A number of knives, including combat and zombie style knives, were then found inside the motor.
October 20 - Cop left injured after yobs hurl fireworks
A police officer was left with a facial injury after a gang threw lit fireworks into a crowd.
The shocking attack happened in High Street, West Bromwich, on Tuesday, October 20, at 3.30pm.
An officer was hit in the face and was taken to hospital to be treated.
October 29 - Man hit over the head with a hammer
A man was taken to hospital after being bludgeoned with a hammer during a violent street attack.
Police rushed to High Street after the victim, in his 30s, was hit at around 5pm on Thursday, October 29.
The surrounding area, including Carter's Green, was sealed off as urgent enquires were conducted.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Best holiday deals for sunshine getaway to beat Covid blues

Holiday-hungry Brits have upped their searches for sunshine breaks to banish the woes of lockdown and various other coronavirus restrictions .
The surge in bookings , following the recent announcement that the Canary Islands no longer required 14 days ’ quarantine on return to the UK , shows that there is a desire to holiday .
And people looking for a getaway are checking out the best-value deals .
Emma Coulthurst , from price comparison site , TravelSupermarket , said : `` The news of the vaccine is a positive which the industry and travellers need .
We expect it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confidence and bookings .
`` Most popular months to compare prices for across the market and click through and book a holiday are December , followed by April and May 2021 .
It seems that holidaymakers are pinning their hopes on lockdown ending to allow travel to resume again for many parts of the country .
Here are some of the deals currently on offer : Fuerteventura Beach Club , Costa Caleta , 3* self-catering .
Depart Luton on 12 Jan for seven nights for two from £161pp .
More details here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blanca , 4* all-inclusive .
Depart Liverpool on 26 Jan for seven nights for two from £331pp .
More details here .
Vila Baleira Funchal , Funchal , 4* B & B .
Depart East Midlands on 18 Jan for seven nights for two from £265pp .
More details here .
LABRANDA Golden Beach , Costa Calma , 3* all-inclusive .
Depart Stansted on 13 Feb for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £308pp .
More details here .
Apartamentos Monte Feliz , Bahia Feliz , 3* self-catering .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ nights for two adults and two school-age children from £237pp .
More details here .
Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga , Dubai City , 4* full board .
Depart 13 Feb from Heathrow for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £588pp .
More details here .
Vantaris Palace Hotel , Georgioupolis , 4* half board .
Depart Manchester on 6 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £250pp ( reduced from £360pp ) .
More details here .
Checkin Colina del Paraiso Hotel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands or Birmingham on 6 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £217pp ( reduced from £333pp ) .
More details here .
Costa Verde Hotel , Cefalu , 3* B & B .
Depart Stansted on 3 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £210pp ( reduced from £264pp ) .
More details here .
Sol Cala d'Or Apartamentos , Cala d'Or , 3* self-catering .
Depart Liverpool on 5 May for seven nights for two from £171pp .
More details here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 3* all-inclusive .
Depart Birmingham on 27 April for seven nights for two from £356pp .
More details here .
Grand Pasa Hotel , Marmaris , 5* all-inclusive .
Depart 11 May from Manchester for seven nights for two from £429pp .
More details here .

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Holiday-hungry Brits have upped their searches for sunshine breaks to banish the woes of lockdown and various other coronavirus restrictions.
The surge in bookings, following the recent announcement that the Canary Islands no longer required 14 days’ quarantine on return to the UK, shows that there is a desire to holiday.
And people looking for a getaway are checking out the best-value deals.
Emma Coulthurst, from price comparison site, TravelSupermarket, said: "The news of the vaccine is a positive which the industry and travellers need. We expect it to have a upward effect on consumer confidence and bookings.
"Most popular months to compare prices for across the market and click through and book a holiday are December, followed by April and May 2021. It seems that holidaymakers are pinning their hopes on lockdown ending to allow travel to resume again for many parts of the country.
Here are some of the deals currently on offer:
Winter 2020/21
Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura Beach Club, Costa Caleta, 3* self-catering. Depart Luton on 12 Jan for seven nights for two from £161pp. More details here.
Lanzarote
HL Club Playa Blanca Hotel, Playa Blanca, 4* all-inclusive. Depart Liverpool on 26 Jan for seven nights for two from £331pp. More details here.
Madeira
Vila Baleira Funchal, Funchal, 4* B&B. Depart East Midlands on 18 Jan for seven nights for two from £265pp. More details here.
February half term 2021
Fuerteventura
LABRANDA Golden Beach, Costa Calma, 3* all-inclusive. Depart Stansted on 13 Feb for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £308pp. More details here.
Gran Canaria
Apartamentos Monte Feliz, Bahia Feliz, 3* self-catering. Depart Birmingham on 13 Feb for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £237pp. More details here.
Dubai
Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga, Dubai City, 4* full board. Depart 13 Feb from Heathrow for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £588pp. More details here.
Easter holidays 2021
(based on two adults and two schoolage children travelling together)
Crete
Vantaris Palace Hotel, Georgioupolis, 4* half board. Depart Manchester on 6 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £250pp (reduced from £360pp). More details here.
Costa del Sol
Checkin Colina del Paraiso Hotel, Guadalmina, 4* self-catering. Depart East Midlands or Birmingham on 6 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £217pp (reduced from £333pp). More details here.
Sicily
Costa Verde Hotel, Cefalu, 3* B&B. Depart Stansted on 3 April for seven nights for two adults and two school-age children from £210pp (reduced from £264pp). More details here.
2021 spring/summer holidays
(based on two travelling together)
Majorca
Sol Cala d'Or Apartamentos, Cala d'Or, 3* self-catering. Depart Liverpool on 5 May for seven nights for two from £171pp. More details here.
Corfu
Mareblue Beach Corfu Resort, Loutsai, 3* all-inclusive. Depart Birmingham on 27 April for seven nights for two from £356pp. More details here.
Turkey
Grand Pasa Hotel, Marmaris, 5* all-inclusive. Depart 11 May from Manchester for seven nights for two from £429pp. More details here.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Kettle Chips offers a taste of the past with classic retro flavours

Leading snack brand Kettle Chips has announced the launch of three delicious retro-style seasonings crowned the ‘ Tastes of Britain ’ .
The limited editions offer crisp fans a selection of nostalgic , traditional flavours – in a throwback to snacks of yesteryear .
Developed at Kettle Chips headquarters in Norfolk , by innovation chef Phil Hovey , the mouth-watering flavours include : Seaside Salt & Malt Vinegar - a reminder of classic fish and chips by the seaside .
Sunday Lunch Roast Chicken & Thyme - a classic flavour profile evoking memories of gathering around the table with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tesco stores nationwide .
Phil Hovey said : “ Whether it ’ s enjoying a family trip to the seaside , socialising over a traditional pub lunch with friends or roaming the luscious gardens of a country manor , the new Tastes of Britain range transports crisp-lovers to those quintessentially British moments .
`` Our chips offer the hand cooked crunch we are loved for , seasoned with our delicious and carefully crafted 100 per cent real food seasonings , making them an irresistible treat.
” The new varieties are on sale now @

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Leading snack brand Kettle Chips has announced the launch of three delicious retro-style seasonings crowned the ‘Tastes of Britain’.
The latest release offers crisp fans a selection of nostalgic, traditional flavours – in a throwback to snacks of yesteryear.
Developed at Kettle Chips headquarters in Norfolk, by innovation chef Phil Hovey, the mouth-watering flavours include:
Seaside Salt & Malt Vinegar - a reminder of classic fish and chips by the seaside.
Sunday Lunch Roast Chicken & Thyme - a classic flavour profile evoking memories of gathering around the table with the family.
Gardeners’ Classic Rosemary & Sea Salt - a fresh and herb-packed seasoning reminiscent of English country gardens.
They are available exclusively at Tesco stores nationwide.
Phil Hovey said: “Whether it’s enjoying a family trip to the seaside, socialising over a traditional pub lunch with friends or roaming the luscious gardens of a country manor, the new Tastes of Britain range transports crisp-lovers to those quintessentially British moments.
"Our chips offer the hand cooked crunch we are loved for, seasoned with our delicious and carefully crafted 100 per cent real food seasonings, making them an irresistible treat.”
The new varieties are on sale now.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--World’s hottest curry gift box offers ultimate festive challenge

It 's the fiery festive gift for those who want to spice up Christmas or miss their favourite Phaal fix during lockdown .
Ingredients specialist Spicentice has created the World ’ s Hottest Curries Gift Box , including the Carolina Reaper Curry , made with the Carolina Reaper Chilli that measures a staggering 2.2 million scoville units Also in the set is the ingredients for a Phaal made with Naga Ghost Chillies and reaching 750,000 units on the Scoville scale .
The tamest of the trio is the Vindaloo kit with Habanero Chillies , at a milder 350,000 on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made with extremely hard to source chillies from around the world .
Spices used are freshly ground and hand-blended , and carefully measured to make amazing hot curries .
Each pack contains herbs , spices and chillies .
The kits serves four , come with an easy to follow recipe card & shopping list , as well as safety instructions !
Those who dare to take the plunge , can enjoy an extreme , long lasting burn with all the great flavour of a classic Indian restaurant curry - but keep a large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand .
The World ’ s Hottest Curries Gift Box retails at £12 .
Further details here .

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It's the fiery festive gift for those who want to spice up Christmas or miss their favourite Phaal fix during lockdown.
Ingredients specialist Spicentice has created the World’s Hottest Curries Gift Box, including the Carolina Reaper Curry, made with the Carolina Reaper Chilli that measures a staggering 2.2 million scoville units
Also in the set is the ingredients for a Phaal made with Naga Ghost Chillies and reaching 750,000 units on the Scoville scale.
The tamest of the trio is the Vindaloo kit with Habanero Chillies, at a milder 350,000 on the Scoville Scale.
All three curries are made with extremely hard to source chillies from around the world. Spices used are freshly ground and hand-blended, and carefully measured to make amazing hot curries. Each pack contains herbs, spices and chillies.
The kits serves four, come with an easy to follow recipe card & shopping list, as well as safety instructions!
Those who dare to take the plunge, can enjoy an extreme, long lasting burn with all the great flavour of a classic Indian restaurant curry - but keep a large glass of milk and fire extinguisher to hand.
The World’s Hottest Curries Gift Box retails at £12. Further details here.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Shi's vision, transfer sell-ons & the inside story of Wolves academy

“ Dreaming is for free.
” Those words , made famous by Nuno Espirito Santo after that win over Espanyol at Molineux , extend far beyond Wolverhampton Wanderers ’ first team .
Wolves have never been afraid to dream big , but it ’ s Fosun ’ s tendency to think outside the box which has allowed them to close the gap on football ’ s elite despite the obvious financial shortfalls .
The club ’ s academy , which is churning out professional footballers at the rate Raul Jimenez finds the net , is perhaps the perfect example of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent ’ and works alongside the first team , much to the delight of chairman Jeff Shi who dreamt up the idea to build a self-sustainable youth set-up .
The academy is essentially a football club within a football club and it ’ s now beginning to fund itself instead of relying on first team hand-outs .
It ’ s created an intimacy within the academy which hasn ’ t always existed .
Long gone are the days where it ’ s first team or bust for young hopefuls making their way through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being done a little differently nowadays .
“ Our job is to fulfil potential , ” head of academy Scott Sellars explains in this exclusive interview with BirminghamLive .
“ It might be for someone to go and become a solicitor .
“ A big focus we have is on creating good people as well , not just good footballers .
We are very honest and realistic so we tell parents when they come in at under-9s that there ’ s a good chance he won ’ t be a footballer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ well-being issues around it with people being sold false dreams that they ’ re going to be footballers , so we ’ re very realistic .
If somebody goes to university in America , if Elliot Watt goes to Bradford , I have as much pleasure in that as seeing a boy play in the first team .
“ They ’ re all our players , they ’ ve all got different levels and it ’ s our job to fulfil that .
Getting into the first team is our first job , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - in football or in life - then we ’ ve done our job.
” Every academy dreams of nurturing a Max Kilman - who spent a short period in Wolves ’ under-23s before stepping up to Premier League level - or a Morgan Gibbs-White , but that is becoming increasingly difficult .
The standard in Wolves ’ first team is now so high , highlighted by 14 international call-ups for the latest round of fixtures , that it ’ s almost impossible for the academy to keep up .
“ To get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 90 per cent of them are international players - is very difficult at 18 , 19 , ” Sellars continues .
“ We have to loan them out or at some point we might say , ‘ It ’ s probably the right time to sell ’ .
” According to Wolves ’ website the club has 21 players currently out on loan , most of whom fall under the umbrella of the academy .
Several of the club ’ s stand-out under-23 starlets of the last two years were also moved on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elliot Watt , a midfielder who made his first team debut at 18 against Sheffield Wednesday , left for Bradford City , Daniel Csoka went to AFC Wimbledon , Cameron John went to Doncaster and the prolific Benny Ashley-Seal joined Northampton Town .
Most academies would wish them well and send them on their way - but Wolves still have a vested interest in their development and success .
Why ?
Sellars explains : “ This year , because of the present situation with lockdown and the financial problems , we ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free but with a sell-on , for the reason that nobody has got any money , so why would they spend it on a player ?
“ But from our point of view we want him to play and looking at the lads who ’ ve gone out , once they leave that loan comfort blanket , they look different .
They look like , ‘ Well , this is my team now , I ’ ve got to work hard and get my next contract ’ .
” Inserting a sell-on clause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pedro Goncalves to Famalicao last year proved to be ingenious .
After one full season with Famalicao , in which he scored five times and recorded five assists in 33 Primeira Liga games , Goncalves secured a transfer to Portuguese powerhouse Sporting for £7million .
“ We let Pedro go but we put a sell-on that would protect us , '' Sellars added .
`` He ’ s done fantastically well .
That ’ s one way of creating money so if they ’ re not quite good enough for Wolves or what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a negative , we ’ re still creating revenue for the club .
“ The first thing I said to Jeff when Pedro left was , ‘ We need a new astro-turf pitch , so can I have some money ?
’ He couldn ’ t really turn me down at that moment so he went , ‘ Yeah , that ’ s fine ’ .
“ We always want to improve our facilities and we always want to grow and get bigger , and I think we are .
We can use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ academy and spend it to recruit players .
“ Long-term , I would hope that at some point if I wanted to do something to the academy , I would say to Jeff , ‘ I want to do this to the academy , we ’ ve got this money because we sold this player or got a sell-on fee for this player ’ .
I think that ’ s what Jeff wants to happen so we can be an independent part of the football club.
” A key theme that Sellars was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Zoom was that not every player is going to make it into Nuno ’ s first team - but there 's clear evidence to suggest that many of them will get the chance .
Due to the size of the squad Nuno keeps , he invites numerous under-23 and under-18 players up to train with the first team on a daily basis .
If there ’ s a youngster worth looking at , invariably Nuno will do just that .
If you make a big impression , you ’ ll be promoted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shining light but Oskar Buur and Owen Otasowie have also emerged as examples for Wolves ’ academy starlets to follow .
“ I ’ ve been in football a lot of years and this is a successful model in terms of giving players that experience .
It can be priceless , ” says Sellars .
“ Max ( Kilman ) comes in from Maidenhead at 20 , has six months in the under-23s , gets to train with the first team and then Nuno goes , ‘ I like him ’ .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ him under their wing .
He almost has a year of development working daily with the fitness coaches and training with world class players .
From his development point of view that ’ s been vital .
“ You are always waiting for that opportunity .
Max has been very patient .
He ’ s been frustrated along the way and at times asked if he could go out on loan .
We felt that this was the best place of learning for him .
“ I spoke to him in the summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be thinking about going on loan , think about what you ’ re going to do to get in the team .
You ’ ve had games and proved you can do it , so what are you going to do to get in the team ?
’ “ They are very close .
An injury or two means that they get a chance .
Morgan did the same but we felt that he needed opportunities to play .
Owen , for the moment we think that working with the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for his development .
We look at them all differently and individually .
I think both routes ( loan and training with the first team ) work .
You only have to look at Ryan Giles over the last year , he ’ s really developed due to playing first team football .
“ I speak with Nuno quite a bit about these players and what we think they need and how they can help us .
It ’ s something Nuno likes , to give young players an opportunity to work with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likes the enthusiasm they bring to sessions.
” For Sellars and his army of academy graduates the dream is well and truly alive , it ’ s just no longer confined to Wolves ’ first team .

“Dreaming is for free.” Those words, made famous by Nuno Espirito Santo after that win over Espanyol at Molineux, extend far beyond Wolverhampton Wanderers’ first team.
Wolves have never been afraid to dream big, but it’s Fosun’s tendency to think outside the box which has allowed them to close the gap on football’s elite despite the obvious financial shortfalls.
The club’s academy, which is churning out professional footballers at the rate Raul Jimenez finds the net, is perhaps the perfect example of this.
It’s now ‘independent’ and works alongside the first team, much to the delight of chairman Jeff Shi who dreamt up the idea to build a self-sustainable youth set-up. The academy is essentially a football club within a football club and it’s now beginning to fund itself instead of relying on first team hand-outs.
It’s created an intimacy within the academy which hasn’t always existed. Long gone are the days where it’s first team or bust for young hopefuls making their way through the ranks at Compton Park. Things are being done a little differently nowadays.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“Our job is to fulfil potential,” head of academy Scott Sellars explains in this exclusive interview with BirminghamLive. “It might be for someone to go and become a solicitor.
“A big focus we have is on creating good people as well, not just good footballers. We are very honest and realistic so we tell parents when they come in at under-9s that there’s a good chance he won’t be a footballer.
“There’s a lot of well-being issues around it with people being sold false dreams that they’re going to be footballers, so we’re very realistic. If somebody goes to university in America, if Elliot Watt goes to Bradford, I have as much pleasure in that as seeing a boy play in the first team.
“They’re all our players, they’ve all got different levels and it’s our job to fulfil that. Getting into the first team is our first job, but if they can get good careers - in football or in life - then we’ve done our job.”
Every academy dreams of nurturing a Max Kilman - who spent a short period in Wolves’ under-23s before stepping up to Premier League level - or a Morgan Gibbs-White, but that is becoming increasingly difficult.
The standard in Wolves’ first team is now so high, highlighted by 14 international call-ups for the latest round of fixtures, that it’s almost impossible for the academy to keep up.
“To get into Wolverhampton Wanderers’ first team - 90 per cent of them are international players - is very difficult at 18, 19,” Sellars continues. “We have to loan them out or at some point we might say, ‘It’s probably the right time to sell’.”
According to Wolves’ website the club has 21 players currently out on loan, most of whom fall under the umbrella of the academy. Several of the club’s stand-out under-23 starlets of the last two years were also moved on permanently during the recent transfer window.
Elliot Watt, a midfielder who made his first team debut at 18 against Sheffield Wednesday, left for Bradford City, Daniel Csoka went to AFC Wimbledon, Cameron John went to Doncaster and the prolific Benny Ashley-Seal joined Northampton Town.
Most academies would wish them well and send them on their way - but Wolves still have a vested interest in their development and success.
Why? Sellars explains: “This year, because of the present situation with lockdown and the financial problems, we’ve let a lot of players go for free but with a sell-on, for the reason that nobody has got any money, so why would they spend it on a player?
“But from our point of view we want him to play and looking at the lads who’ve gone out, once they leave that loan comfort blanket, they look different. They look like, ‘Well, this is my team now, I’ve got to work hard and get my next contract’.”
Inserting a sell-on clause in the deal which took Portuguese midfielder Pedro Goncalves to Famalicao last year proved to be ingenious. After one full season with Famalicao, in which he scored five times and recorded five assists in 33 Primeira Liga games, Goncalves secured a transfer to Portuguese powerhouse Sporting for £7million.
“We let Pedro go but we put a sell-on that would protect us," Sellars added. "He’s done fantastically well. That’s one way of creating money so if they’re not quite good enough for Wolves or what Nuno wants, that’s not a negative, we’re still creating revenue for the club.
“The first thing I said to Jeff when Pedro left was, ‘We need a new astro-turf pitch, so can I have some money?’ He couldn’t really turn me down at that moment so he went, ‘Yeah, that’s fine’.
“We always want to improve our facilities and we always want to grow and get bigger, and I think we are. We can use that money to put back into the academy and spend it to recruit players.
“Long-term, I would hope that at some point if I wanted to do something to the academy, I would say to Jeff, ‘I want to do this to the academy, we’ve got this money because we sold this player or got a sell-on fee for this player’. I think that’s what Jeff wants to happen so we can be an independent part of the football club.”
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A key theme that Sellars was keen to stress during this 30-minute interview over Zoom was that not every player is going to make it into Nuno’s first team - but there's clear evidence to suggest that many of them will get the chance.
Due to the size of the squad Nuno keeps, he invites numerous under-23 and under-18 players up to train with the first team on a daily basis. If there’s a youngster worth looking at, invariably Nuno will do just that.
If you make a big impression, you’ll be promoted to the first team. Kilman is the shining light but Oskar Buur and Owen Otasowie have also emerged as examples for Wolves’ academy starlets to follow.
“I’ve been in football a lot of years and this is a successful model in terms of giving players that experience. It can be priceless,” says Sellars.
“Max (Kilman) comes in from Maidenhead at 20, has six months in the under-23s, gets to train with the first team and then Nuno goes, ‘I like him’. Then all of a sudden they take him under their wing. He almost has a year of development working daily with the fitness coaches and training with world class players. From his development point of view that’s been vital.
“You are always waiting for that opportunity. Max has been very patient. He’s been frustrated along the way and at times asked if he could go out on loan. We felt that this was the best place of learning for him.
“I spoke to him in the summer and said, ‘Listen, don’t be thinking about going on loan, think about what you’re going to do to get in the team. You’ve had games and proved you can do it, so what are you going to do to get in the team?’
“They are very close. An injury or two means that they get a chance. Morgan did the same but we felt that he needed opportunities to play. Owen, for the moment we think that working with the first team is probably going to be best for his development. We look at them all differently and individually. I think both routes (loan and training with the first team) work. You only have to look at Ryan Giles over the last year, he’s really developed due to playing first team football.
“I speak with Nuno quite a bit about these players and what we think they need and how they can help us. It’s something Nuno likes, to give young players an opportunity to work with him, and I also think he likes the enthusiasm they bring to sessions.”
For Sellars and his army of academy graduates the dream is well and truly alive, it’s just no longer confined to Wolves’ first team.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Ski school hiring official slopes tester for trendy resorts

A ski school operator is recruiting for a winter sports enthusiast to become its official slopes tester .
The dream role advertised by Altitude Ski School , based in the trendy Swiss destination of Verbier , will let the successful applicant escape to the scenic resort slopes - including Zermatt , Gstaad and Davos - and test them out .
The ideal candidate must be happy being surrounded by picturesque views , as well as have a huge passion for fun and thrills as there will be plenty of pistes to explore and ski along , from beginner routes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to fill in an application form outlining their experience and the successful candidate will be selected in early January by ski school bosses .
Further terms and conditions will be discussed with the candidate .
Jon West , Altitude Ski School director , said : “ I ’ m so pleased to announce Altitude ’ s latest opening to join our team as our one and only Ski Slope Tester .
“ It ’ s an incredibly important role , and we ’ re excited to welcome whoever the lucky candidate is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a fantastic time ensuring that the snow is up to standard for the other skiers.
” More details are available through the Altitude Ski School website .

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A ski school operator is recruiting for a winter sports enthusiast to become its official slopes tester.
The dream role advertised by Altitude Ski School, based in the trendy Swiss destination of Verbier, will let the successful applicant escape to the scenic resort slopes - including Zermatt, Gstaad and Davos - and test them out.
The ideal candidate must be happy being surrounded by picturesque views, as well as have a huge passion for fun and thrills as there will be plenty of pistes to explore and ski along, from beginner routes to the more challenging expert-level slopes.
Applicants need to fill in an application form outlining their experience and the successful candidate will be selected in early January by ski school bosses.
Further terms and conditions will be discussed with the candidate.
Jon West, Altitude Ski School director, said: “I’m so pleased to announce Altitude’s latest opening to join our team as our one and only Ski Slope Tester.
“It’s an incredibly important role, and we’re excited to welcome whoever the lucky candidate is. We’re sure they will have a fantastic time ensuring that the snow is up to standard for the other skiers.”
More details are available through the Altitude Ski School website.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Those earning over £19.5k 'should pay more tax' for Covid-19 cost

An influential group has outlined a plan to deal with the vast cost of dealing with Covid-19 - and it would mean people earning as little as £19,500 paying more tax .
The Government bill for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic is growing , with borrowings of £208 billion in the first six months of the year , on the back of issues like furlough .
The Resolution Foundation says there needs to be a plan to boost the public finances in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis .
And it has made a case which would see taxes rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than £20,000 .
The foundation suggests these tax rises would come in a matter of years to avoid a return to austerity and tackle the record peacetime borrowing demanded by the government 's response to coronavirus .
The think-tank recommended a 'health and social care levy ' - a 4 % tax on all incomes over £12,500 - which would be offset by a 3 % cut to employee national insurance and the abolition of Class 2 National Insurance contributions for the self-employed .
It said the shift would not penalise those worst-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low-paid and self-employed - and provide a boost for a social care system whose inadequacies were exposed to by coronavirus .
The study calculated the levy would raise £17bn annually , reports Sky .
It was suggested £6bn of that sum should go to social care .
It states : `` These offsets would leave employees earning £19,500 and below better off , as well as self-employed workers earning less than £17,000 . ''
Other notable measures included a `` pandemic profit levy '' - a windfall tax - on firms that had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as supermarkets and private contractors working on pandemic projects for the government .
The £208 billion borrowed by the Government this year compares to £175 billion last year .
A wider hit to businesses , by increasing corporation tax from 19 % to 22 % , would raise £10bn , the foundation said .
It also argued for wealth tax rises of £9bn , including restrictions on capital gains and inheritance tax reliefs , with homes worth more than £2m paying an additional council tax supplement .
The foundation outlined its case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the government , pushed for a shake-up of capital gains tax that would target second home-owners and tax avoidance .

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An influential group has outlined a plan to deal with the vast cost of dealing with Covid-19 - and it would mean people earning as little as £19,500 paying more tax.
The Government bill for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic is growing, with borrowings of £208 billion in the first six months of the year, on the back of issues like furlough.
The Resolution Foundation says there needs to be a plan to boost the public finances in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
And it has made a case which would see taxes rise - even among some people earning less than £20,000.
The foundation suggests these tax rises would come in a matter of years to avoid a return to austerity and tackle the record peacetime borrowing demanded by the government's response to coronavirus.
The think-tank recommended a 'health and social care levy' - a 4% tax on all incomes over £12,500 - which would be offset by a 3% cut to employee national insurance and the abolition of Class 2 National Insurance contributions for the self-employed.
It said the shift would not penalise those worst-hit by the virus crisis restrictions - the low-paid and self-employed - and provide a boost for a social care system whose inadequacies were exposed to by coronavirus.
The study calculated the levy would raise £17bn annually, reports Sky. It was suggested £6bn of that sum should go to social care.
It states: "These offsets would leave employees earning £19,500 and below better off, as well as self-employed workers earning less than £17,000."
Other notable measures included a "pandemic profit levy" - a windfall tax - on firms that had benefited from the crisis during 2020, such as supermarkets and private contractors working on pandemic projects for the government.
The £208 billion borrowed by the Government this year compares to £175 billion last year.
A wider hit to businesses, by increasing corporation tax from 19% to 22%, would raise £10bn, the foundation said.
It also argued for wealth tax rises of £9bn, including restrictions on capital gains and inheritance tax reliefs, with homes worth more than £2m paying an additional council tax supplement.
The foundation outlined its case hours after a separate report, commissioned by the government, pushed for a shake-up of capital gains tax that would target second home-owners and tax avoidance.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Forest Green set sights on loan extension for 'desperate' Bailey

Mark Cooper hopes he can keep Birmingham City starlet Odin Bailey with Forest Green for the whole season - but accepts the youngster is ‘ desperate ’ to make the grade at St Andrew ’ s .
The former Blues midfielder , who has steered Rovers to third place in League Two , has revealed how a deadline day coronavirus crisis brought Bailey back to The New Lawn .
He has also expressed his confidence the 20-year-old has all the on-field and off-field attributes to have a successful career – and his desire to extend the current loan deal beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before last month ’ s transfer deadline , Bailey looked set to join League One Charlton before the trail went cold .
He was then on his way to join Rovers ’ League Two rivals Barrow before Cooper learned of his availability and offered him the chance to return to the club with whom he spent a successful period last season .
“ We had always had Odin on our radar because he had done brilliant for us last year before he got injured , ” Cooper told BirminghamLive .
“ We inquired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t get him with a new manager coming in and wasn ’ t sure if Odin was in his plans .
“ Then on the Thursday before we played Stevenage [ on October 17 ] we had a ridiculous morning where we had a COVID case and four of them had car-shared and all had to isolate and another that needed a test , so we lost five players on that morning for the Saturday game for two weeks .
“ We needed a player and if I am being honest I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I just wanted a good player that I could trust and I knew .
“ So my director of football said Odin was available , we rang , he was just on his way to Barrow and he did a U-turn , without being disrespectful to Barrow in any way at all , because he had enjoyed it last year and we managed to get him in.
” Bailey began the game againast Colchester four days later and has gone on to make four starts and one appearance off the bench .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most recent league game on November 3 at home to Leyton Orient when he scored his first of the season and created the other goal in a 2-1 victory .
Normally an attacker he even played the second half of that game as a left wing-back .
“ I think he is really ready now , ” Cooper continued .
“ Playing 23s is not the same tempo as competitive matches and it takes them three or four games to really hit their straps .
“ Without the ball he works really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Orient because our wing back had to go off .
He was brilliant there too .
“ He is a great kid , he works his socks off , he just wants to be a player , wants to have a career , he is desperate to go back and eventually play for Birmingham , whether that happens I don ’ t know .
“ We would love to keep him , of course we would , hopefully we are going to have a good season and he is going to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Personally I think he needs to belong somewhere for a season , play 35 games , score ten goals and he then becomes a real asset for someone .
“ He is a conscientious lad who wants to work hard .
He is a good pro who I think is going to have a good career in the game .
”

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Mark Cooper hopes he can keep Birmingham City starlet Odin Bailey with Forest Green for the whole season - but accepts the youngster is ‘desperate’ to make the grade at St Andrew’s.
The former Blues midfielder, who has steered Rovers to third place in League Two, has revealed how a deadline day coronavirus crisis brought Bailey back to The New Lawn.
He has also expressed his confidence the 20-year-old has all the on-field and off-field attributes to have a successful career – and his desire to extend the current loan deal beyond January.
In the final few days before last month’s transfer deadline, Bailey looked set to join League One Charlton before the trail went cold.
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He was then on his way to join Rovers’ League Two rivals Barrow before Cooper learned of his availability and offered him the chance to return to the club with whom he spent a successful period last season.
“We had always had Odin on our radar because he had done brilliant for us last year before he got injured,” Cooper told BirminghamLive.
“We inquired in the summer, obviously we couldn’t get him with a new manager coming in and wasn’t sure if Odin was in his plans.
“Then on the Thursday before we played Stevenage [on October 17] we had a ridiculous morning where we had a COVID case and four of them had car-shared and all had to isolate and another that needed a test, so we lost five players on that morning for the Saturday game for two weeks.
“We needed a player and if I am being honest I wasn’t sure in what position, I just wanted a good player that I could trust and I knew.
“So my director of football said Odin was available, we rang, he was just on his way to Barrow and he did a U-turn, without being disrespectful to Barrow in any way at all, because he had enjoyed it last year and we managed to get him in.”
Bailey began the game againast Colchester four days later and has gone on to make four starts and one appearance off the bench.
His performances came to a peak in the most recent league game on November 3 at home to Leyton Orient when he scored his first of the season and created the other goal in a 2-1 victory.
Normally an attacker he even played the second half of that game as a left wing-back.
“I think he is really ready now,” Cooper continued. “Playing 23s is not the same tempo as competitive matches and it takes them three or four games to really hit their straps.
“Without the ball he works really hard, he played left wing back against Orient because our wing back had to go off. He was brilliant there too.
“He is a great kid, he works his socks off, he just wants to be a player, wants to have a career, he is desperate to go back and eventually play for Birmingham, whether that happens I don’t know.
“We would love to keep him, of course we would, hopefully we are going to have a good season and he is going to play a big part of that.
“Personally I think he needs to belong somewhere for a season, play 35 games, score ten goals and he then becomes a real asset for someone.
“He is a conscientious lad who wants to work hard. He is a good pro who I think is going to have a good career in the game.”