birminghammail--2020-03-15--Lawyer makes 'devastating' claim that will interest Wolves, Liverpool and Manchester United

A leading sports lawyer has warned Premier League clubs that this season could be cancelled due to the coronavirus .
The Premier League has suspended fixtures until April 4 , though that date could change with further reviews expected in the coming days .
The UK has more than 1,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 21 Brits have now died after contracting the disease .
Many Premier League clubs are in lockdown with Wolverhampton Wanderers announcing on Saturday that it would be closing Molineux for the foreseeable future .
Wolves have already closed Compton Park ’ s academy facility until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side ’ s Europa League campaign has also been halted with UEFA postponing all last 16 second legs which were due to be played this week .
And , with more cases coming to light all the time , there are doubts over whether the 2019/20 Premier League season will be finished at all .
Sports lawyer Richard Cramer believes the Premier League will be left with little choice but to cancel the season if games can ’ t be resumed next month .
Speaking to Sky Sports , he said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beginning of April then we should be all right , but if we go through to May/June I think it ’ s almost the equivalent of what happened in the World Wars , the season has to be cancelled and we start all over again .
“ It ’ s obviously devastating for the likes of Leeds United and West Brom , both those clubs are on the verge of promotion , it ’ s not a great thought .
“ But they ’ ll just have to abide by what the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s eventually made by the board of directors.
” That decision isn ’ t likely to suit Wolves who are sixth in the Premier League and chasing a Champions League place .
But it would also mean runaway leaders Liverpool miss out on a first league title in three decades , while the Championship ’ s top two Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion would be stuck in the second tier for at least another year .

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A leading sports lawyer has warned Premier League clubs that this season could be cancelled due to the coronavirus.
The Premier League has suspended fixtures until April 4, though that date could change with further reviews expected in the coming days.
The UK has more than 1,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 21 Brits have now died after contracting the disease.
(Image: Laurence Griffiths)
Many Premier League clubs are in lockdown with Wolverhampton Wanderers announcing on Saturday that it would be closing Molineux for the foreseeable future. Wolves have already closed Compton Park’s academy facility until April.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side’s Europa League campaign has also been halted with UEFA postponing all last 16 second legs which were due to be played this week.
And, with more cases coming to light all the time, there are doubts over whether the 2019/20 Premier League season will be finished at all.
Sports lawyer Richard Cramer believes the Premier League will be left with little choice but to cancel the season if games can’t be resumed next month.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “If they get the games going by the beginning of April then we should be all right, but if we go through to May/June I think it’s almost the equivalent of what happened in the World Wars, the season has to be cancelled and we start all over again.
“It’s obviously devastating for the likes of Leeds United and West Brom, both those clubs are on the verge of promotion, it’s not a great thought.
“But they’ll just have to abide by what the majority say and what the decision is that’s eventually made by the board of directors.”
That decision isn’t likely to suit Wolves who are sixth in the Premier League and chasing a Champions League place.
But it would also mean runaway leaders Liverpool miss out on a first league title in three decades, while the Championship’s top two Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion would be stuck in the second tier for at least another year.


birminghammail--2020-03-15--Lawyer makes 'devastating' claim about West Brom and Leeds United

West Bromwich Albion have been warned by a leading sports lawyer they face missing out on promotion unless the season resumes in the near future .
English football has been shelved until April due to the spread of the coronavirus , with Albion ’ s Championship fixtures against Birmingham City , Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday having been postponed .
But it has been widely suggested the ban could be extended - creating a hugely uncertain situation for the remainder of the campaign .
And lawyer Richard Cramer says the season is likely to be cancelled if more matches are called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April and I think we should be alright , ” he told Sky Sports .
“ But if we go through to May or June then I think it 's almost inevitable that , it 's almost the equivalent of what happened in the world wars , the season just has to be cancelled .
“ Then we start all over again , which is obviously devastating for the likes of Leeds United and West Brom , both those clubs are on the verge of promotion .
“ It 's not a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to abide by what the majority say and what decision is made by the board of directors.
” If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it happens For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com Albion currently trail Leeds by a point at the top of the table with nine matches remaining .
The EFL are due to meet with member clubs on Wednesda y to decide on a plan of action .

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West Bromwich Albion have been warned by a leading sports lawyer they face missing out on promotion unless the season resumes in the near future.
English football has been shelved until April due to the spread of the coronavirus, with Albion’s Championship fixtures against Birmingham City, Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday having been postponed.
But it has been widely suggested the ban could be extended - creating a hugely uncertain situation for the remainder of the campaign.
And lawyer Richard Cramer says the season is likely to be cancelled if more matches are called off.
“Get the games going in April and I think we should be alright,” he told Sky Sports.
“But if we go through to May or June then I think it's almost inevitable that, it's almost the equivalent of what happened in the world wars, the season just has to be cancelled.
“Then we start all over again, which is obviously devastating for the likes of Leeds United and West Brom, both those clubs are on the verge of promotion.
“It's not a great thought, but they'll just have to abide by what the majority say and what decision is made by the board of directors.”
Albion currently trail Leeds by a point at the top of the table with nine matches remaining.
The EFL are due to meet with member clubs on Wednesda y to decide on a plan of action.


birminghammail--2020-03-15--Birmingham City receive key Scott Hogan transfer update from Aston Villa - reports

Scott Hogan has finally rediscovered his scoring touch since swapping Aston Villa for second city rivals Birmingham City in January .
The striker has notched seven goals in eight Championship games for Blues and supporters at St Andrew ’ s have taken to the 27-year-old .
He was also named Sky Bet Championship player of the month for February .
Blues are reportedly keen to make Hogan ’ s transfer across the city permanent this summer , though that decision will rest with the powers that be at Villa Park .
“ In all fairness , you get the odd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of Villa fans and players and they wish me luck every week , '' Hogan said recently .
`` The Blues fans have welcomed me really well , too.
” And , according to The Sun , Villa are considering keeping the striker if they are relegated from the Premier League .
Hogan joined Villa for £12million from Brentford in January 2017 but he ’ s only managed 10 goals in 61 appearances in B6 .
Villa boss Dean Smith managed to get the best out of Hogan at Brentford but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Championship start last season .

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Scott Hogan has finally rediscovered his scoring touch since swapping Aston Villa for second city rivals Birmingham City in January.
The striker has notched seven goals in eight Championship games for Blues and supporters at St Andrew’s have taken to the 27-year-old.
He was also named Sky Bet Championship player of the month for February.
Blues are reportedly keen to make Hogan’s transfer across the city permanent this summer, though that decision will rest with the powers that be at Villa Park.
“In all fairness, you get the odd little bit of stick but I know a lot of Villa fans and players and they wish me luck every week," Hogan said recently. "The Blues fans have welcomed me really well, too.”
And, according to The Sun, Villa are considering keeping the striker if they are relegated from the Premier League.
Hogan joined Villa for £12million from Brentford in January 2017 but he’s only managed 10 goals in 61 appearances in B6.
Villa boss Dean Smith managed to get the best out of Hogan at Brentford but didn’t hand him a single Championship start last season.
Hogan's contract at Villa Park runs until 2021.


birminghammail--2020-03-15--Kind-hearted Wednesbury butcher vows to help the elderly and vulnerable during coronavirus outbreak

A kind-hearted butcher is on a mission to help the elderly as the coronavirus outbreak continues to leave supermarket shelves bare .
Toilet roll , liquid soap , nappies and bleach are just some of the essentials currently in high demand and short supply .
Jason Farquhar , who runs J & F Butchers in Lower High Street , Wednesbury , has decided to do what he can to support the town 's elderly and vulnerable during the hysteria - and will hit the cash and carry to stock up on supplies before offering a free delivery service .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shop products straight to customers ' doors , he 'll also be grabbing essentials to sell at cost to those unable to brave the supermarket aisles .
The 48-year-old told Black Country Live : `` It has been manic , when people have come into the shop they 've said they have n't been able to get this and that - especially the elderly people who ca n't really get out .
So I thought I 'd offer a delivery service , just for the elderly and vulnerable people of Wednesbury .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash and carry tomorrow ( Monday ) to buy toilet roll , bleach , hand wash and any other bits I can that people are struggling to get and help people out that way . ''
The butcher , who was born and bred in Wednesbury , said requests would be handled on a 'case by case ' basis and local councillors were also on board and would be referring those in need .
He added : `` I 'll do this for as long as it takes , I 've already had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll help with deliveries . ''
Anyone who knows an elderly or vulnerable person in need can contact Jason on 07960650685 or message the shop 's Facebook page J & F Butchers .
The thoughtful gesture has gathered a huge response on social media , with many posting praise for the butcher .
`` That 's a lovely idea , '' said one .
`` Maybe other types of local town shops could help the elderly out too . ''
A second wrote : `` I hope people remember the good people when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said a third .
`` This guy deserves all the business he can get . ''
Another posted : `` People like you reinstate my faith in humanity .
So kind . ''

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A kind-hearted butcher is on a mission to help the elderly as the coronavirus outbreak continues to leave supermarket shelves bare.
Toilet roll, liquid soap, nappies and bleach are just some of the essentials currently in high demand and short supply .
Jason Farquhar, who runs J & F Butchers in Lower High Street, Wednesbury, has decided to do what he can to support the town's elderly and vulnerable during the hysteria - and will hit the cash and carry to stock up on supplies before offering a free delivery service.
In addition to bringing fresh meat and other shop products straight to customers' doors, he'll also be grabbing essentials to sell at cost to those unable to brave the supermarket aisles.
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The 48-year-old told Black Country Live: "It has been manic, when people have come into the shop they've said they haven't been able to get this and that - especially the elderly people who can't really get out. So I thought I'd offer a delivery service, just for the elderly and vulnerable people of Wednesbury.
"I'm going to go to the cash and carry tomorrow (Monday) to buy toilet roll, bleach, hand wash and any other bits I can that people are struggling to get and help people out that way."
The butcher, who was born and bred in Wednesbury, said requests would be handled on a 'case by case' basis and local councillors were also on board and would be referring those in need.
He added: "I'll do this for as long as it takes, I've already had three people contact me to say they'll help with deliveries."
Anyone who knows an elderly or vulnerable person in need can contact Jason on 07960650685 or message the shop's Facebook page J & F Butchers .
The thoughtful gesture has gathered a huge response on social media, with many posting praise for the butcher.
"That's a lovely idea," said one. "Maybe other types of local town shops could help the elderly out too."
A second wrote: "I hope people remember the good people when this is over."
"Wonderful," said a third. "This guy deserves all the business he can get."
Another posted: "People like you reinstate my faith in humanity. So kind."


birminghammail--2020-03-15--The West Brom contracts expiring this summer as coronavirus sparks uncertain future

The contracts of professional footballers are usually a hot topic of conversation .
The pendulum of power between the club and the player can often swing one way or the other , depending where the latter is in their contract .
Three or more years left to run on a deal represents security for the player , but also for the club - particularly if they ’ re an asset .
On the flip side , big contracts can mean that shifting a player who is no longer in the manager ’ s plans can be tricky .
Anything less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uncertain period .
Has the player justified the offering of fresh terms ?
Do they fancy moving on ?
In the case of the latter , it often means they can run their contract down and leave for nothing , or force their employers into selling up early .
Things are no different at West Brom .
As the football world is brought to a stand-still because of the global threat of the coronavirus , many players ’ immediate futures are more uncertain than ever before .
This is the current Albion squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contract is set to expire and the players who could need signing up quickly should Slaven Bilic consider them important .
Albion have some calls to make before this season is out .
Goalkeepers Jonathan Bond , Ali Al-Habsi and Alex Palmer all see their respective deals run out next summer - it ’ d leave just first choice Sam Johnstone at the club .
Chris Brunt , Albion 's longest-serving player by a distance , is likely to bring the curtain down on his stay at The Hawthorns next summer .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club and made well over 400 appearances .
Gareth Barry , too , will see his time at the club likely end .
Beyond that , there are a host of academy products who need their futures resolving .
The club are talking to Nathan Ferguson , while Kyle Edwards has also found himself in the match-day squad regularly - he has a one-year option , though .
Kane Wilson is out on loan at Tranmere , while Jack Fitzwater is having to bide his time .
Lee Peltier agreed a short-term deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already agreed personal terms with Matheus Pereira and are expected to snap him up on a permanent deal next summer , worth £9m all in .
Grady Diangana will return to West Ham .
His form raised fears that there ’ d be a repeat of the situation that saw the Baggies lose Harvey Barnes last year , but ultimately he stayed put - though he has suffered frustratingly from injuries in the meantime .
Filip Krovinovic is another player who could earn a permanent deal if his form prompts Albion to pursue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be in next season will play a part in seeing if they 're in a position to offer Callum Robinson a permanent move .
Eighteen months tends to be a bit of a cross-roads period for many players , and the above are those who are about to enter the final year and a half of those deals .
Kieran Gibbs signed a four-year deal when he arrived in 2017 , while Kyle Bartley agreed a three-year deal and Charlie Austin a two-year contract .
Hal Robson-Kanu , who recently committed his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the other players who , as it stands , will see their contracts expire in the summer of 2021 .
Grosicki signed an 18-month deal when agreeing to move from Hull .
The bulk of the Albion squad have a little over two-and-a-half years left .
Romaine Sawyers agreed a three-year deal in the summer when he arrived from Brentford , while Rekeem Harper and Matt Phillips have both fairly recently put pen to paper on new deals .
Ahmed Hegazi , returning from injury , signed a chunky contract in December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two years to save his Albion career when he returns from his season-long loan at Alaves - though Albion are expected to try and get what they can for him in the summer .
Captain Jake Livermore and Charlton loanee Sam Field are the other players who have a cushion .
The former trio have only just arrived , and were all tied down to long-term deals upon arrival .
Darnell Furlong and Semi Ajayi are looking like excellent pieces of business , for a combined fee of £3m , while Kenneth Zohore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather expensive price-tag .
All in their early to mid twenties , they agreed four-year contracts and will be at the club until 2023 - or longer , all being well .
Then there is O'Shea , who like Ferguson burst onto the first-team scene this season .
Bilic is a huge fan , and Albion managed to tie him down to a new long term contract in January 2020 .

The contracts of professional footballers are usually a hot topic of conversation. The pendulum of power between the club and the player can often swing one way or the other, depending on where the latter is in their contract. Three or more years left to run on a deal represents security for the player, but also for the club - particularly if they’re an asset.
On the flip side, big contracts can mean that shifting a player who is no longer in the manager’s plans can be tricky. Anything less than that, and there is an uncertain period. Has the player justified the offering of fresh terms? Do they fancy moving on? In the case of the latter, it often means they can run their contract down, and leave for nothing, or force their employers into selling up early.
Things are no different at West Brom, who have begun work ahead of this significant summer by making decisions on the futures of a host of players within their squad. Senior players, like Jake Livermore, Tom Rogic and Kean Bryan, have left, while many more will be moving into the final 12 months of their respective contracts.
Here are the contract statuses of every player in the squad, including those heading into the final year of their deals who will need Carlos Corberan's attention in the coming months.
Summer 2024 (loans)
Jeremy Sarmiento (Brighton)
Albion began their transfer business for the 2023 summer by borrowing Jeremy Sarmiento for the coming season, from Premier League Brighton.
Summer 2024
Alex Mowatt, Rayhaan Tulloch, Cedric Kipre,Matt Phillips,Ethan Ingram, Jovan Malcolm, Tom Fellows, Adam Reach, David Button, Martin Kelly, Kyle Bartley, Nathaniel Chalobah, Reyes Cleary, Ted Cann, Josh Shaw, Reece Hall, Jamie Andrews, Brad Foster, Aaron Harper-Bailey, Layton Love, Narel Phillips, Fenton Heard
A sizeable chunk of the squad have a buffer of a year left on their contracts. Alex Mowatt and Adam Reach are both two thirds of the way into three-year deals they signed summer 2021, though the former has spent his second season out on loan, while David Button penned a new two-year agreement in the summer of 2022.
Matt Phillips extended his stay to 2024 at the beginning of the 2021-22 season, while the lesser spotted Cedric Kipre - lent to Cardiff last year - is now three quarters of the way through his four-year contract signed upon arrival in 2020. Tom Fellows has been off out getting some EFL experience, while Martin Kelly, who joined in the summer, suffered a devastating season-ending injury while out at Wigan. He is still recovering.
Ethan Ingram tasted first-team football at the beginning of last season, while Kyle Bartley triggered a further year in his contract. Nathaniel Chalobah, upon arriving in January, agreed an 18-month contract. A host of youngsters this summer have signed one-year deals - Jamie Andrews, Aaron-Harper Bailey, Ted Cann, Brad Foster, Layton Love, Narel Phillips and Fenton Heard all have a further season to impress.
Summer 2025
Grady Diangana,Josh Griffiths, Darnell Furlong, Conor Townsend,Semi Ajayi, Jayson Molumby, John Swift,Zac Ashworth (on loan at Bolton),Caleb Taylor, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Okay Yokuslu, Harry Whitwell, Matt Richards, Ronnie Hollingshead, Alex Williams, Eseosa Sule, Akeel Higgins
Grady Diangana is tied to the club until 2025 as things stand, although there is interest in the winger this summer. Full backs Conor Townsend and Darnell Furlong both have a little over two remaining years.
Josh Griffiths' potential excites Albion - he impressed in the first team after three separate loan spells away - but he might be considered for a sale this summer if a suitor comes in. Semi Ajayi extended his contract in summer 2022 but he has struggled to regain his place in the first XI until the run-in following injury, while Jayson Molumby made his loan switch a permanent one and has by contrast been a key member of the starting line-up.
John Swift was the first new face into the club last summer, following Molumby in as one of Albion's early permanent acquisitions. He signed a three-year deal on a free transfer having left Reading. Fellow summer arrivals Okay Yokuslu and Brandon Thomas-Asante also penned three-year agreements upon arrival and also have two of those respective years remaining.
Summer 2026
Karlan Grant (on loan at Cardiff), Taylor Gardner-Hickman, Daryl Dike, Alex Palmer, Jed Wallace, Josh Maja
Grant, Albion's top scorer in 2021-22, is now halfway through his six-year contract but has been loaned out to Cardiff City. Alex Palmer, who ended the season as the club's outright number one after a number of loan deals in recent years, also committed his future to The Hawthorns in the summer of 2022 but there remains interest too in him.
Taylor Gardner-Hickman's breakthrough into the Albion first team last season was one of the rare highlights of an otherwise dreary campaign in 21-22 and he was rewarded with a professional deal in December of 2021, while Daryl Dike arrived shortly after and signed a deal the same length - he is expected to remain out for the rest of 2023 with injury, though.
Jed Wallace's time at The Hawthorns has begun well - he's already a fan favourite - and he agreed a four-year contract upon arrival on a free, while Josh Maja is the newest face at the club having signed this summer on a three-year deal.
What do you make of Albion's contracts situation? Have your say in the comments section...


birminghammail--2020-03-15--Kind-hearted shopkeeper at Premier Express in Yardley bans bulk-buying and delivers to vulnerable

A Birmingham shopkeeper has banned bulk buying , put a freeze on prices and is delivering items to his loyal and vulnerable customers .
Mudassir Naweed , who runs Premier Express on Stoney Lane in Yardley , will prepare packages for his trusted shoppers and ration sought after goods including baby milk and anti-bacterial wipes .
The father-of-two said he was prompted to act after he was left shocked by customers coming into his store and panic buying large quantities of toilet rolls and paracetamol .
He will also try to deliver to people who can not get out as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be told to stay at home for an extended period to shield them from coronavirus .
Mr Naveed said : “ I have had my shop here for 16 years and I know quite a lot of the local customers .
“ In the last couple of weeks , there ’ s been so many people who we have n't seen and they are panic buying .
“ We had someone take two cases of eight toilet rolls , we sold out of UHT Milk .
“ I thought what about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've known for 16 years - they are going to struggle .
“ Local Mosques are also helping and I thought to alleviate the pressure off charities , we would do our bit.
`` Mr Naveed , who employs four staff at his store , posted his good-doing on Facebook and has received a positive response .
He said : “ We are willing to go out of our way to source something out .
One lady has been struggling with size six nappies , we managed to get them . ''
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need essentials we ’ re here to help .
I ’ ll try my best to get it for you and keep it aside .
My shop is the premier store at the yewtree .
“ We have toilet rolls , some meds left , nappies in most sizes , tinned food other groceries etc .
“ Please message before heading over to make sure we have what you need .
“ We will NOT sell in bulk loads to panic buyers as this is unfair to our community and we wont @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other places .
“ If you need a package putting together for those that are vulnerable we will fully accommodate but we may need help in delivering to those people .
“ On the plus side we have plenty of cigarettes and booze .
“ It ’ s time to start looking out for each other .
”

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A Birmingham shopkeeper has banned bulk buying, put a freeze on prices and is delivering items to his loyal and vulnerable customers.
Mudassir Naweed, who runs Premier Express on Stoney Lane in Yardley, will prepare packages for his trusted shoppers and ration sought after goods including baby milk and anti-bacterial wipes.
The father-of-two said he was prompted to act after he was left shocked by customers coming into his store and panic buying large quantities of toilet rolls and paracetamol.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
He will also try to deliver to people who cannot get out as Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the over-70s could be told to stay at home for an extended period to shield them from coronavirus.
Mr Naveed said: “I have had my shop here for 16 years and I know quite a lot of the local customers.
“In the last couple of weeks, there’s been so many people who we haven't seen and they are panic buying.
“We had someone take two cases of eight toilet rolls, we sold out of UHT Milk.
“I thought what about the people who are vulnerable, who I've known for 16 years - they are going to struggle.
“Local Mosques are also helping and I thought to alleviate the pressure off charities, we would do our bit. "
Mr Naveed, who employs four staff at his store, posted his good-doing on Facebook and has received a positive response.
He said: “We are willing to go out of our way to source something out. One lady has been struggling with size six nappies, we managed to get them."
Mr Naveed posted on Facebook: “If you need essentials we’re here to help. I’ll try my best to get it for you and keep it aside. My shop is the premier store at the yewtree.
“We have toilet rolls, some meds left, nappies in most sizes, tinned food other groceries etc.
“Please message before heading over to make sure we have what you need.
“We will NOT sell in bulk loads to panic buyers as this is unfair to our community and we wont be putting the prices up like some other places.
“If you need a package putting together for those that are vulnerable we will fully accommodate but we may need help in delivering to those people.
“On the plus side we have plenty of cigarettes and booze.
“It’s time to start looking out for each other.”


birminghammail--2020-03-15--Manchester United make £240m decision to seal Jack Grealish transfer - reports

Manchester United could offload five players as part of a massive summer rebuild as they target Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish .
Grealish has shone on the Premier League stage despite Villa ’ s battle against relegation , attracting interest from elsewhere along the way .
United have their sights set on a summer move for the 24-year-old , who has nine goals and eight assists to his name in all competitions this season .
Villa would want to be handsomely compensated for the player they have nurtured since age six – and on the other side of the deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to offer him a wage hike to the tune of £150,000-a-week .
With Grealish and other signings on the agenda at Old Trafford , the Mirror ( via TeamTalk ) claims United will look at selling five players to help fund a spending spree .
They say that David De Gea , Jesse Lingard , Paul Pogba , Alexis Sanchez and Marcos Rojo are all at risk as part of the plan to overhaul Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’ s squad .
The report adds as well as Grealish , Birmingham City wonderkid Jude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Borussia Monchengladback midfielder Denis Zakaria are also targets and United are willing to pay £240m to land the quartet after selling key players .

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Manchester United could offload five players as part of a massive summer rebuild as they target Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish.
Grealish has shone on the Premier League stage despite Villa’s battle against relegation, attracting interest from elsewhere along the way.
United have their sights set on a summer move for the 24-year-old, who has nine goals and eight assists to his name in all competitions this season.
Villa would want to be handsomely compensated for the player they have nurtured since age six – and on the other side of the deal it has been suggested United are willing to offer him a wage hike to the tune of £150,000-a-week.
With Grealish and other signings on the agenda at Old Trafford, the Mirror (via TeamTalk) claims United will look at selling five players to help fund a spending spree.
They say that David De Gea, Jesse Lingard, Paul Pogba, Alexis Sanchez and Marcos Rojo are all at risk as part of the plan to overhaul Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad.
The report adds as well as Grealish, Birmingham City wonderkid Jude Bellingham, Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho and Borussia Monchengladback midfielder Denis Zakaria are also targets and United are willing to pay £240m to land the quartet after selling key players.


birminghammail--2020-03-15--The proposal that will delight Aston Villa and Leeds United fans

Former Liverpool defender and current Sky Sports pundit Phil Thompson has backed the idea of a 22-team Premier League next term , amid proposals that West Brom and Leeds United should be promoted from the Championship with no existing top flight sides heading in the opposite direction .
The coronavirus pandemic has halted English football until at the very earliest April 3 , although that is almost certainly expected to be a delay that is extended .
It ’ s cast doubt over the culmination of the current league season , and has led to question marks over what happens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relegation up and down the EFL .
One suggestion has been that Albion and Leeds , who have held spots at the top of the second tier for the majority of the campaign , ought to join the 20 clubs who currently hold Premier League status - WITHOUT any making way .
Norwich , Aston Villa and Bournemouth all occupy the relegation zone , but Villa have a game in hand and the Cherries are only there on goal difference , having shared the same points as Watford and West Ham .
Thompson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meeting to take place this coming week , says you can not relegate Villa because could still quite easily escape trouble .
“ There are so many situations , and I ’ d like to be a fly on the wall next Thursday when they are having the meeting again , ” Thompson told Sky Sports .
“ That [ 22-team Premier League ] would be really , really cool .
But , you look at it , we [ Liverpool ] have waited 30 years for a Premier League title .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get up for 15 years back to the Premier League .
So , that is big .
“ There ’ s a big gap down there in the Championship .
How they are going to sort it out , I don ’ t know .
The bottom teams in the Premier League .
“ Aston Villa have that one game in hand .
I know it ’ s difficult and people would say ‘ Oh , would they win it or would they not win it ?
’ .
“ But you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They would then move up three or four places .
”

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Former Liverpool defender and current Sky Sports pundit Phil Thompson has backed the idea of a 22-team Premier League next term, amid proposals that West Brom and Leeds United should be promoted from the Championship with no existing top flight sides heading in the opposite direction.
The coronavirus pandemic has halted English football until at the very earliest April 3, although that is almost certainly expected to be a delay that is extended.
It’s cast doubt over the culmination of the current league season, and has led to question marks over what happens in the respective battles for promotion and relegation up and down the EFL.
One suggestion has been that Albion and Leeds, who have held spots at the top of the second tier for the majority of the campaign, ought to join the 20 clubs who currently hold Premier League status - WITHOUT any making way.
Norwich, Aston Villa and Bournemouth all occupy the relegation zone, but Villa have a game in hand and the Cherries are only there on goal difference, having shared the same points as Watford and West Ham.
Thompson, who eagerly awaits the outcome of the meeting to take place this coming week, says you cannot relegate Villa because could still quite easily escape trouble.
“There are so many situations, and I’d like to be a fly on the wall next Thursday when they are having the meeting again,” Thompson told Sky Sports.
“That [22-team Premier League] would be really, really cool. But, you look at it, we [Liverpool] have waited 30 years for a Premier League title. Leeds United have been fighting desperately trying to get up for 15 years back to the Premier League. So, that is big.
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“There’s a big gap down there in the Championship. How they are going to sort it out, I don’t know. The bottom teams in the Premier League.
“Aston Villa have that one game in hand. I know it’s difficult and people would say ‘Oh, would they win it or would they not win it?’.
“But you have to say they could do. They would then move up three or four places.”


birminghammail--2020-03-15--35 coronavirus deaths in the UK - a rise of 14 overnight

Thirty-five people in the UK have now died after testing positive for coronavirus - a rise of 14 overnight .
According to the Department of Health , there are now 1,372 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the UK .
And some 40,279 people have been tested for the deadly disease as of 9am on Sunday , March 15 .
Follow our live updates via our blog here It comes as the health secretary told Sky News that over 70s will need to isolate for up to four months .
And there are also moves to give police powers to 'arrest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Royal Infirmary said one of the deaths was a patient there in his late-50s who had underlying health conditions .
In Wales , health authorities confirmed 34 new cases on Sunday , bringing the country 's total to 94 .
To keep up-to-date with the latest updates regarding Coronavirus join our Facebook group here Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News that over-70s will be asked to self-isolate `` in the coming weeks '' to try to protect them from coronavirus - and it could potentially last for months .
When pushed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for up to four months , he said : `` That is in the action plan , yes .
`` And we will be setting it out in more detail when that 's the right time to do so , because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable , and it 's for their own self-protection . ''

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Thirty-five people in the UK have now died after testing positive for coronavirus - a rise of 14 overnight.
According to the Department of Health, there are now 1,372 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the UK.
And some 40,279 people have been tested for the deadly disease as of 9am on Sunday, March 15.
Follow our live updates via our blog here
It comes as the health secretary told Sky News that over 70s will need to isolate for up to four months.
And there are also moves to give police powers to 'arrest coronavirus patients NOT self-isolating'.
Bristol Royal Infirmary said one of the deaths was a patient there in his late-50s who had underlying health conditions.
In Wales, health authorities confirmed 34 new cases on Sunday, bringing the country's total to 94.
To keep up-to-date with the latest updates regarding Coronavirus join our Facebook group here
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News that over-70s will be asked to self-isolate "in the coming weeks" to try to protect them from coronavirus - and it could potentially last for months.
When pushed on whether they could be asked to isolate for up to four months, he said: "That is in the action plan, yes.
"And we will be setting it out in more detail when that's the right time to do so, because we appreciate it is a very big ask of the elderly and vulnerable, and it's for their own self-protection."


birminghammail--2020-03-15--How the coronavirus could affect Manchester United and a move for Aston Villa star Jack Grealish

Jack Grealish is a man in demand this coming summer - there aren ’ t two ways about it .
The Aston Villa captain , in a side who spent much of the season battling against the threat of relegation , has shone and has inevitably caught the attention of sides towards the top of the Premier League .
Manchester United , who have big plans in the transfer window , are one such team and have been linked with Grealish for the vast majority of the campaign .
The emergence and outbreak of the coronavirus has thrown such interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK and Europe , into doubt , however .
This is your round up of all things Villa ; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest goings on at Villa Park and beyond .
Transfers , injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on the Lions throughout week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • None The nine Aston Villa players on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big Aston Villa stadium plan - what we know so far - READ • None How Gary Gardner is getting on at Blues - READ • None Aston Villa fans all make the same demand after England update - READ For all your latest Villa news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here UEFA , the EFL and the Premier League will all hold emergency board meetings this coming week to discuss their next plans of action as Covid-19 continues to spread and the number of confirmed cases rises quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meetings among the footballing authorities , the transfer window planned for the close season could be affected - and so , more crucially , could their decisions when it comes to finishing the regular season , if at all possible .
Will United , on an 11-match unbeaten run , catch Chelsea and claim a Champions League spot ?
Or will they miss out , and so struggle to avoid talents such as Grealish ?
Would Villa , who sit down in 19th but with a match in hand , suffer relegation or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been calls for next term to be delayed , with Euro 2020 looking increasingly unlikely to go ahead , but also in some quarters for the current campaign to be declared null and void .
The picture ought to be a little clearer by this time next week , but with many a Villa understandably concerned by the prospect of losing Grealish later on this year , any calls made which have a knock on effect on the clubs ’ respective finishing positions and the commencement of the window , could throw a @ @ @ @ @

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Jack Grealish is a man in demand this coming summer - there aren’t two ways about it.
The Aston Villa captain, in a side who spent much of the season battling against the threat of relegation, has shone and has inevitably caught the attention of sides towards the top of the Premier League.
Manchester United, who have big plans in the transfer window, are one such team and have been linked with Grealish for the vast majority of the campaign.
The emergence and outbreak of the coronavirus has thrown such interest, and transfer deals in general around the UK and Europe, into doubt, however.
UEFA, the EFL and the Premier League will all hold emergency board meetings this coming week to discuss their next plans of action as Covid-19 continues to spread and the number of confirmed cases rises quickly.
Depending on the outcomes of those meetings among the footballing authorities, the transfer window planned for the close season could be affected - and so, more crucially, could their decisions when it comes to finishing the regular season, if at all possible.
Will United, on an 11-match unbeaten run, catch Chelsea and claim a Champions League spot? Or will they miss out, and so struggle to avoid talents such as Grealish?
Would Villa, who sit down in 19th but with a match in hand, suffer relegation or in fact avoid it?
There have been calls for next term to be delayed, with Euro 2020 looking increasingly unlikely to go ahead, but also in some quarters for the current campaign to be declared null and void.
The picture ought to be a little clearer by this time next week, but with many a Villa understandably concerned by the prospect of losing Grealish later on this year, any calls made which have a knock on effect on the clubs’ respective finishing positions and the commencement of the window, could throw a move away into doubt.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--'Not good' - Nuno's gloomy fitness update over Wolves whizzkid

Nuno Espirito Santo admits Morgan Gibbs-White is struggling after his latest injury setback .
The latest twist to the youngster ’ s tortuous campaign came a couple of weeks ago when he was sidelined in an Under 23s match .
The Wolves youngster remains out - while the season is suspended - but Nuno gave the club website an update .
“ Morgan ’ s getting better , but he ’ s not good , ” the Portuguese head coach said .
This is your round up of all things Wolverhampton Wanderers ; the one-stop shop that will keep you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Molineux and beyond .
Transfers , injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on Wolves throughout week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • Ratings for the season so far- READ “ He ’ s had a season where there have been obstacles in terms of injuries and not being able to settle down , and perform in a continuous way , but we still have time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to be out for long and he will be able to join the group and keep on helping us.
” The 20-year-old has had to contend with a lingering back injury that has seen him miss a huge chunk of the season .
He started his first game in 2020 during the Europa League second leg trip to Espanyol , playing just over an hour as Wolves were beaten 3-2 .
That was just his 13th appearance in all competitions , as injuries and loss of form have curtailed the exciting start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to continue building up his match fitness , Gibbs-White started the U23 fixture against Tottenham at Stevenage earlier this month - only for another mishap .
He was taken off with an injury in the first half of the game at Stevenage ’ s stadium , a match Wolves would go on to lose 3-2 .
He will be hoping the current hiatus gives him the chance to make a lasting recovery .

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Nuno Espirito Santo admits Morgan Gibbs-White is struggling after his latest injury setback.
The latest twist to the youngster’s tortuous campaign came a couple of weeks ago when he was sidelined in an Under 23s match.
The Wolves youngster remains out - while the season is suspended - but Nuno gave the club website an update.
“Morgan’s getting better, but he’s not good,” the Portuguese head coach said.
Wolves latest This is your round up of all things Wolverhampton Wanderers; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest goings on at Molineux and beyond. Transfers, injuries, match-days and managers, we’ve got you covered. We’ll be bringing the very latest on Wolves throughout week and around the clock. Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up... Ratings for the season so far- READ
Wolves 3 Norwich City 0 - Jota and Jimenez seal win - READ
Promotion hero reveals depression battle - READ
Ranked: Nuno's best wins as Wolves boss - READ
“He’s had a season where there have been obstacles in terms of injuries and not being able to settle down, and perform in a continuous way, but we still have time.
“Hopefully he’s not going to be out for long and he will be able to join the group and keep on helping us.”
The 20-year-old has had to contend with a lingering back injury that has seen him miss a huge chunk of the season.
He started his first game in 2020 during the Europa League second leg trip to Espanyol, playing just over an hour as Wolves were beaten 3-2.
That was just his 13th appearance in all competitions, as injuries and loss of form have curtailed the exciting start to his senior career.
So in order to continue building up his match fitness, Gibbs-White started the U23 fixture against Tottenham at Stevenage earlier this month - only for another mishap.
He was taken off with an injury in the first half of the game at Stevenage’s stadium, a match Wolves would go on to lose 3-2.
He will be hoping the current hiatus gives him the chance to make a lasting recovery.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Mayor Andy Street calls for an end to coronavirus stockpiling

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has endorsed calls from supermarkets for shoppers to stop stockpiling .
Customers have been faced with empty shelves following panic-buying of goods such as toilet rolls , hand sanitiser and dried food including pasta .
Supermarkets have come together to issue a joint message to shoppers , saying : `` There is enough for everyone if we all work together . ''
And the mayor endorsed the call for calm , sharing the message on Twitter and adding : `` Please take a moment to read this very important message from our supermarkets .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and support everyone in the community during this time . ''
Shelves were stripped of basic supplies after panic buying swept Birmingham supermarkets over the weekend.. One woman said she could not source a thermometer for her baby , another said it looked like a “ bomb had gone off at their local Asda . ''
“ And looked everywhere for a thermometer for the little one as she isn ’ t feeling well and couldn ’ t find one .
Turns out she does have a high temperature after borrowing one .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ t thinking of other people when bulk buying these items.
” Samantha Brown wrote : “ Earlier I went to Morrisons in Burntwood Staffs .
“ I could of cried it looked like a bomb had gone off , bare shelves , mess every where , even though I wasn ’ t panic buying it made me feel panicky seeing it like that ! ''
British Retail Consortium members have sent a joint letter to consumers urging everyone to work together to ensure there is enough food for the country .
It said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are worried about the spread of coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) .
“ We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.
” The letter added : “ But we need your help too .
“ We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop .
“ We understand your concerns , but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without .
“ There is enough for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Together we can make sure we are looking out for family , friends , neighbours .
“ Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly , vulnerable or choosing to remain at home.
” Firms are working closely with the Government and suppliers , and have arranged more store deliveries to ensure shelves are stocked , the letter added .
Helen Dickinson , chief executive of the British Retail Consortium , said : “ Retailers are working incredibly hard to keep shops well stocked and deliveries running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus , food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need.
” Environment Secretary , George Eustice , said : “ I fully support the call from British food retailers urging us all to be considerate in the way we shop and look out for our neighbours .
“ By working together , our leading supermarkets have provided the reassurance there is plenty of stock available and people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We are in regular contact with the food industry and retailers are continuing to monitor their supply chains and are taking all the necessary steps to ensure consumers have the food and supplies they need .
”

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West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has backed calls from supermarkets for shoppers to stop stockpiling.
Customers have been faced with empty shelves following panic-buying of goods such as toilet rolls, hand sanitiser and dried food including pasta.
Supermarkets have come together to issue a joint message to shoppers, saying: "There is enough for everyone if we all work together."
And the mayor endorsed the call for calm, sharing the message on Twitter and adding: "Please take a moment to read this very important message from our supermarkets. It's important that we all work together and support everyone in the community during this time."
Shelves were stripped of basic supplies after panic buying swept Birmingham supermarkets over the weekend..
One woman said she could not source a thermometer for her baby, another said it looked like a “bomb had gone off at their local Asda."
Francey Siobhan posted on Facebook: “ Asda was horrendous!
“And looked everywhere for a thermometer for the little one as she isn’t feeling well and couldn’t find one. Turns out she does have a high temperature after borrowing one.
“Its terrible how people aren’t thinking of other people when bulk buying these items.”
Samantha Brown wrote: “Earlier I went to Morrisons in Burntwood Staffs.
“ I could of cried it looked like a bomb had gone off, bare shelves, mess every where, even though I wasn’t panic buying it made me feel panicky seeing it like that!"
British Retail Consortium members have sent a joint letter to consumers urging everyone to work together to ensure there is enough food for the country.
It said: “We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19).
“We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.”
The letter added: “But we need your help too.
“We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop.
“We understand your concerns, but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without.
“There is enough for everyone if we all work together.
“Together we can make sure we are looking out for family, friends, neighbours.
“Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable or choosing to remain at home.”
Firms are working closely with the Government and suppliers, and have arranged more store deliveries to ensure shelves are stocked, the letter added.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Retailers are working incredibly hard to keep shops well stocked and deliveries running as smoothly as possible.
“In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus, food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need.”
Environment Secretary, George Eustice, said: “I fully support the call from British food retailers urging us all to be considerate in the way we shop and look out for our neighbours.
“By working together, our leading supermarkets have provided the reassurance there is plenty of stock available and people should buy products as they normally would.
“We are in regular contact with the food industry and retailers are continuing to monitor their supply chains and are taking all the necessary steps to ensure consumers have the food and supplies they need.”


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Halfords to close all Cycle Republic stores with 226 jobs at risk

Midlands-based automotive and cycling retailer Halfords has announced plans to close its Cycle Republic chain of stores , putting 226 jobs at risk .
The Redditch chain said it will shut all 22 outlets and its performance centre site in Evesham as it looks to focus on its online cycling business , Tredz .
Cycle Republic has a store on Colmore Row in Birmingham city centre .
It said it expects the closures , which are due to complete in the first half of the next financial year , will cost the firm between £25 million and £35 million .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ redundancies where possible and is `` also actively exploring opportunities to sell the sites as a going concern '' .
The Cycle Republic business was `` low-returning '' and `` stock intensive '' , Halfords said , meaning the exit will free up investment and resources to drive into its motoring business .
It said it will continue to invest in cycling through the online-focused Tredz business and its Halfords retail cycling arm .
Last year , the Cycle Republic business reported a £4.3 million loss , which is predicted to be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive Graham Stapleton said : `` The board has come to the difficult , but necessary , decision to propose the closure of Cycle Republic , our retail stores-focused performance cycling brand .
`` This proposal is not a reflection of the hard work of our Cycle Republic colleagues , who I would like to thank for their commitment and passion in serving our customers .
`` Going forward we propose to focus our investment and resources in Halfords and Tredz , through which we will deliver market-leading specialist propositions for both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model that improves our overall economics . ''

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Midlands-based automotive and cycling retailer Halfords has announced plans to close its Cycle Republic chain of stores, putting 226 jobs at risk.
The Redditch chain said it will shut all 22 outlets and its performance centre site in Evesham as it looks to focus on its online cycling business, Tredz.
Cycle Republic has a store on Colmore Row in Birmingham city centre.
It said it expects the closures, which are due to complete in the first half of the next financial year, will cost the firm between £25 million and £35 million.
Halfords said it is looking to mitigate redundancies where possible and is "also actively exploring opportunities to sell the sites as a going concern".
The Cycle Republic business was "low-returning" and "stock intensive", Halfords said, meaning the exit will free up investment and resources to drive into its motoring business.
It said it will continue to invest in cycling through the online-focused Tredz business and its Halfords retail cycling arm.
Last year, the Cycle Republic business reported a £4.3 million loss, which is predicted to be "materially smaller" in 2020.
Halfords chief executive Graham Stapleton said: "The board has come to the difficult, but necessary, decision to propose the closure of Cycle Republic, our retail stores-focused performance cycling brand.
"This proposal is not a reflection of the hard work of our Cycle Republic colleagues, who I would like to thank for their commitment and passion in serving our customers.
"Going forward we propose to focus our investment and resources in Halfords and Tredz, through which we will deliver market-leading specialist propositions for both mainstream and enthusiast cyclists via a business model that improves our overall economics."


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Brady clarifies 'void season' claims affecting Aston Villa

Karren Brady has clarified her coronavirus stance , after claiming the Premier League season should be made null and void .
The West Ham vice-chairman sent fans up and down the country furious , with suggestions that this campaign could be wiped clear .
In her column in the Sun , Brady suggested that Premier League bosses will discuss voiding the season , with uncertainty over when fixtures can resume .
Aston Villa find themselves in the relegation zone , with ten games to play , meaning the drastic step of voiding the season , could see them avoid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken to Twitter , backtracking on her original suggestion and stating it will only be a last resort to end the season prematurely .
She posted : `` Everyone agrees that LFC deserve to win the title .
`` PL & EFL are doing all we can to ensure the season is finished .
Including suspending games , isolating players , and if required playing games behind closed doors and into the summer months .
`` My point was safety of fans , players , staff come 1st & if the remaining games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair & reasonable thing is to declare season null and void .
`` Who knows who would have gone down or come up if the PL/EFL games have not actually been played in full ? ''

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Karren Brady has clarified her coronavirus stance, after claiming the Premier League season should be made null and void.
The West Ham vice-chairman sent fans up and down the country furious, with suggestions that this campaign could be wiped clear.
In her column in the Sun, Brady suggested that Premier League bosses will discuss voiding the season, with uncertainty over when fixtures can resume.
Aston Villa find themselves in the relegation zone, with ten games to play, meaning the drastic step of voiding the season, could see them avoid the drop.
However, Brady has now taken to Twitter, backtracking on her original suggestion and stating it will only be a last resort to end the season prematurely.
She posted: "Everyone agrees that LFC deserve to win the title.
"PL & EFL are doing all we can to ensure the season is finished. Including suspending games, isolating players, and if required playing games behind closed doors and into the summer months.
"My point was safety of fans, players, staff come 1st & if the remaining games just cannot be played the only fair & reasonable thing is to declare season null and void.
"Who knows who would have gone down or come up if the PL/EFL games have not actually been played in full?"


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Club chief speaks out on West Brom target Karlan Grant's future

Huddersfield Town interim chief executive Mark Devlin remains optimistic that the Terriers can keep a hold of talisman Karlan Grant in the summer transfer window , but the Yorkshire club ’ s message to Grant ’ s suitors was clear - every player has a price .
BirminghamLive revealed in January that West Brom had identified Grant as a forward they liked ; his profile fitted the bill of what they wanted as they looked to bolster Slaven Bilic ’ s hand heading into the second half of the campaign .
Nothing came of that interest in the winter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Robinson and Kamil Grosicki - the former in particular has played a significant role since arriving on loan .
Ahead of the summer window , which in itself carries uncertainty with the coronavirus pandemic putting a halt to English football - leaving the footballing authorities with some big calls to make with still a chunk of the current campaign to play - Town have once again outlined their stance on Grant .
Devlin is fully accepting of the interest Grant has drawn , and while he insists that the club are in no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward , any interest followed up by a concrete bid will be considered .
“ Let ’ s be really honest , a guy like Karlan is going to attract interest - goalscorers will attract interest and I have no doubt Karlan will be feted in the summer , ” Devlin told the Huddersfield Examiner .
“ We don ’ t have to sell him and if Karlan decided he wanted to be part of our group longer term , then that would delight us .
We have to look at that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
“ At the moment , I am delighted to say Karlan is really throwing himself into his work , so to speak , and is doing everything he can to help us make sure we are nice and safe in the Championship .
“ Everything will be judged on its own merits , when it comes to it , and Karlan is one of those players I have no doubt will be feted and that there will be interest .
“ We know there is interest out there and we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
“ This doesn ’ t mean he will necessarily leave us , but we will do what is right for the club at the end of the day , in conjunction with talking to the player.
” Grant , 22 , had scored 16 goals for the Terriers by the time the EFL campaign was suspended .
Albion ’ s Midlands rivals Aston Villa and their promotion rivals Fulham have also been credited with an interest .

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Huddersfield Town interim chief executive Mark Devlin remains optimistic that the Terriers can keep a hold of talisman Karlan Grant in the summer transfer window, but the Yorkshire club’s message to Grant’s suitors was clear - every player has a price.
BirminghamLive revealed in January that West Brom had identified Grant as a forward they liked; his profile fitted the bill of what they wanted as they looked to bolster Slaven Bilic’s hand heading into the second half of the campaign.
Nothing came of that interest in the winter, however, and Albion instead pursued Callum Robinson and Kamil Grosicki - the former in particular has played a significant role since arriving on loan.
Ahead of the summer window, which in itself carries uncertainty with the coronavirus pandemic putting a halt to English football - leaving the footballing authorities with some big calls to make with still a chunk of the current campaign to play - Town have once again outlined their stance on Grant.
Devlin is fully accepting of the interest Grant has drawn, and while he insists that the club are in no rush to part with the former Charlton forward, any interest followed up by a concrete bid will be considered.
“Let’s be really honest, a guy like Karlan is going to attract interest - goalscorers will attract interest and I have no doubt Karlan will be feted in the summer,” Devlin told the Huddersfield Examiner.
“We don’t have to sell him and if Karlan decided he wanted to be part of our group longer term, then that would delight us. We have to look at that, though, when it comes to the time.
“At the moment, I am delighted to say Karlan is really throwing himself into his work, so to speak, and is doing everything he can to help us make sure we are nice and safe in the Championship.
“Everything will be judged on its own merits, when it comes to it, and Karlan is one of those players I have no doubt will be feted and that there will be interest.
“We know there is interest out there and we will deal with it when it comes to it.
“This doesn’t mean he will necessarily leave us, but we will do what is right for the club at the end of the day, in conjunction with talking to the player.”
Grant, 22, had scored 16 goals for the Terriers by the time the EFL campaign was suspended.
Albion’s Midlands rivals Aston Villa and their promotion rivals Fulham have also been credited with an interest.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Ryanair drastically grounds flights because of coronavirus

Low-cost carrier Ryanair has announced it will cut its flight schedules due to travel bans imposed by several countries .
It said in a statement : “ Ryanair expects the result of these restrictions will be the grounding of the majority of its aircraft fleet across Europe over the next seven to 10 days .
“ In those countries where the fleet is not grounded , social distancing restrictions may make flying to all intents and purposes impractical , if not impossible .
“ For April and May , Ryanair now expects to reduce its seat capacity by up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grounding of the fleet can not be ruled out .
“ Ryanair is taking immediate action to reduce operating expenses , and improve cash flows .
This will involve grounding surplus aircraft , deferring all capex and share buybacks , freezing recruitment and discretionary spending , and implementing a series of voluntary leave options , temporarily suspending employment contracts , and significant reductions to working hours and payments.
” Tour operator Tui has announced it is suspending the sale of package holidays and cruises , while airlines British Airwyas and easyJet has curtailed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shapps described the spread of coronavirus as an “ international crisis ” .
He told BBC Breakfast : “ This is no doubt at all , there is no sugar coating this .
This is obviously an international crisis and we need a great national effort to help everybody in society get through this .
But we will get through it .
We will beat this virus , but there is no shortcut unfortunately to getting there .
”

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Low-cost carrier Ryanair has announced it will cut its flight schedules due to travel bans imposed by several countries.
It said in a statement: “Ryanair expects the result of these restrictions will be the grounding of the majority of its aircraft fleet across Europe over the next seven to 10 days.
“In those countries where the fleet is not grounded, social distancing restrictions may make flying to all intents and purposes impractical, if not impossible.
“For April and May, Ryanair now expects to reduce its seat capacity by up to 80 per cent, and a full grounding of the fleet cannot be ruled out.
“Ryanair is taking immediate action to reduce operating expenses, and improve cash flows. This will involve grounding surplus aircraft, deferring all capex and share buybacks, freezing recruitment and discretionary spending, and implementing a series of voluntary leave options, temporarily suspending employment contracts, and significant reductions to working hours and payments.”
coronavirus blog
Tour operator Tui has announced it is suspending the sale of package holidays and cruises, while airlines British Airwyas and easyJet has curtailed its flying programme.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps described the spread of coronavirus as an “international crisis”.
He told BBC Breakfast: “This is no doubt at all, there is no sugar coating this. This is obviously an international crisis and we need a great national effort to help everybody in society get through this. But we will get through it. We will beat this virus, but there is no shortcut unfortunately to getting there.”


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Motorcyclist fights for life after serious crash with car

A motorcyclist has been taken to hospital in a critical condition after a horror crash in the Black Country .
@ @ @ @ @ called to reports of the smash , which involved a car and a motorcyclist , @ @ @ @ @ .
An ambulance , paramedic officer , critical care car with an advanced paramedic on @ @ @ @ @ Ambulance from Cosford with a BASICS doctor on board attended the scene at around 7.42am @ @ @ @ @ A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said : `` Ambulance staff arrived to find a @ @ @ @ @ in a critical condition .
`` They worked as a team to administer advanced trauma @ @ @ @ @ man was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for @ @ @ @ @ An eyewitness at the scene told Black Country Live that police shielded the public from @ @ @ @ @ worked tirelessly at the scene .

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A motorcyclist has been taken to hospital in a critical condition after a horror crash in the Black Country.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of the smash, which involved a car and a motorcyclist, in Regent Road, Tividale.
An ambulance, paramedic officer, critical care car with an advanced paramedic on board and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a BASICS doctor on board attended the scene at around 7.42am Monday, March 16.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "Ambulance staff arrived to find a man, the motorcyclist, in a critical condition.
"They worked as a team to administer advanced trauma care on scene before the man was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further emergency care."
An eyewitness at the scene told Black Country Live that police shielded the public from seeing the biker as medics worked tirelessly at the scene.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Actor and comic Roy Hudddies aged 83

Actor and comic Roy Hudddies aged 83

Comedian and actor Roy Hudd has died at the age of 83 .
Hudd - who was awarded an OBE in 2004 - was the first honorary president of Sandwell Hospital Radio .
A statement from his agent said : `` We are sad to announce the passing of the much-loved and amazingly talented Roy Hudd OBE .
`` After a short illness , Roy passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Sunday March 15 , with his wife Debbie at his side .
`` The family would ask you to respect their privacy at this very sad time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in radio and theatre .
However , in the mid 1990s he appeared in two series of Common As Muck , a drama about a group of refuse collectors , alongside Edward Woodward .
In 2000 , Hudd appeared as neighbour Mr Smedley in one episode of One Foot in the Grave .
From 2002-03 he was undertaker Archie Shuttleworth in Coronation Street and returned for occasional guest appearances until the character 's death in December 2018 .
He also appeared in New Tricks , and played a role in Benidorm during 2016 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broadchurch and last July was in an episode of Casualty .

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Comedian and actor Roy Hudd has died at the age of 83.
Hudd - who was awarded an OBE in 2004 - was the first honorary president of Sandwell Hospital Radio.
A statement from his agent said: "We are sad to announce the passing of the much-loved and amazingly talented Roy Hudd OBE.
"After a short illness, Roy passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Sunday March 15, with his wife Debbie at his side.
"The family would ask you to respect their privacy at this very sad time."
Much of his early career was in radio and theatre. However, in the mid 1990s he appeared in two series of Common As Muck, a drama about a group of refuse collectors, alongside Edward Woodward.
In 2000, Hudd appeared as neighbour Mr Smedley in one episode of One Foot in the Grave .
From 2002-03 he was undertaker Archie Shuttleworth in Coronation Street and returned for occasional guest appearances until the character's death in December 2018.
He also appeared in New Tricks, and played a role in Benidorm during 2016. The following year he appeared in Broadchurch and last July was in an episode of Casualty.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Coronavirus - Cinema chain halves audience numbers and bans anyone with a cough

A cinema chain with branches in the Black Country has cut capacity in half at all its venues due to coronavirus fears .
Showcase Cinemas - which has venues in Castlegate Way in Dudley and Bentley Mill Way in Walsall - will allow for two vacant spaces between each pair of seats .
And a spokesman said any cinemagoers with a cough would be asked to leave .
The spokesman said : `` Showcase Cinemas , as one of the largest cinema operators in the UK , is taking nationwide steps to provide additional space between guests within all its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to discourage anyone with health concerns from coming to its cinemas .
`` We will continue to closely monitor the situation and liaise with relevant authorities , and follow the official guidance from the UK Government .
`` We have asked that all staff do not come into work if they are showing flu-like symptoms .
Similarly , if staff or a guest at the cinema is showing symptoms such as a fever , cough or shortness of breath , they will be respectfully asked to leave . ''
The news comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting back against growing COVID 19 fears by reducing the number of covers to create more social distances and double cleaning all cutlery glasses and tableware .
Most recently acclaimed Gaijin Sushi on Bristol Street has closed its restaurant due to the pandemic .

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A cinema chain with branches in the Black Country has cut capacity in half at all its venues due to coronavirus fears.
Showcase Cinemas - which has venues in Castlegate Way in Dudley and Bentley Mill Way in Walsall - will allow for two vacant spaces between each pair of seats.
And a spokesman said any cinemagoers with a cough would be asked to leave.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The spokesman said: "Showcase Cinemas, as one of the largest cinema operators in the UK, is taking nationwide steps to provide additional space between guests within all its locations, to keep its cinemas clean and to discourage anyone with health concerns from coming to its cinemas.
"We will continue to closely monitor the situation and liaise with relevant authorities, and follow the official guidance from the UK Government.
"We have asked that all staff do not come into work if they are showing flu-like symptoms. Similarly, if staff or a guest at the cinema is showing symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath, they will be respectfully asked to leave."
The news comes after BirminghamLive revealed city restaurants, are fighting back against growing COVID 19 fears by reducing the number of covers to create more social distances and double cleaning all cutlery glasses and tableware.
Most recently acclaimed Gaijin Sushi on Bristol Street has closed its restaurant due to the pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--The Alan Shearer verdict that Leeds United and West Brom fans will want to read

Leeds United and West Brom should not be automatically promoted to the Premier League if the season is forced to end early .
That 's the verdict of Premier League legend turned pundit , Alan Shearer .
One of the suggestions for coping with the coronavirus is that both clubs could be automatically promoted without the season reaching a conclusion .
A controversial suggestion that everyone has an opinion on , Shearer included .
He told the Sun : `` If you can not complete the fixtures then you can not go handing out titles or consider relegating anybody .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and West Brom up from the Championship — but there would be uproar from other clubs .
`` Sitting seven and six points above third with nine games to go , there is no guarantee they would finish in the top two .
`` If there 's no alternative than to cancel all remaining league fixtures , then the only logical decision should be to void the entire campaign .
`` While it would be harsh on some clubs that are chasing promotion , or league titles , it ca n't really be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has to be looked at in order to reach a conclusion , even if that means a long delay before playing into next season .
`` If , and it is a huge if , the season can not be completed then there is no way you can have a winner or loser .
`` As harsh and as horrible as that would be for some clubs , none more so than Liverpool , it is the only outcome . ''
Football in England - and indeed around the world - is on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The authorities are planning on coming together next week to hold talks over what the next step may be , and the various eventualities in which the remainder of the 2019-20 campaign may play out .
The suspension of football doesn ’ t stop at home , though .
Internationally , UEFA have two significant competitions reaching their climax for the season , while Euro 2020 - set to take place across the continent this summer , as opposed to having a single nation as hosts - is scheduled to go ahead this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for your diaries .
This coming week European governing body UEFA have called an emergency meeting to discuss football on this continent and their planned response to the outbreak .
All 55 member associations , together with the boards of the European Club Association and the European Leagues and a representative of FIFPro , have all been invited to attend the discussions via webcam .
The range of topics will include the Champions League , the Europa League , the qualifying rounds of those respective competitions for the 2021 season and Euro 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Football League clubs is believed to be scheduled for this coming Wednesday , as they decide on their own plan of action .
Plenty is up for discussion , including how the land lies with promotion and relegation and the knock-on effect their decisions could have at the top and bottom of the Championship , League One and League Two .
It ’ s already been pointed out , too , that the longer the suspension remains in place clubs towards the bottom of the footballing ladder who rely on ticket revenue will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top flight , who made the decision to suspend their competition this week , will hold an emergency meeting on Thursday to hold talks over the plans in the mid-term .
They announced the decision to put all matches on hold until April 3 after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for the virus .
New Premier League chief executive Richard Masters was only appointed in December as a replacement for the outgoing Richard Scudamore .
All Premier League and EFL football has been suspended until Friday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the operative word here is most certainly the latter .
Blackburn Rovers had been selected by Sky Sports for a televised fixture as they were set to welcome table topping Leeds United on April 3 , but in reality it ’ s widely expected that the suspension will be extended .
Indeed the Department of Health have indicated that 95 % of all cases in the UK could be reached by June time , a date which would put an indefinite ban on English football .
Saturday 2 May - the season is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their final fixtures were set to take place on the first weekend of May , a Bank Holiday weekend .
West Brom were due to welcome Queens Park Rangers to The Hawthorns for a 12:30 kick off .
All Albion fans wouldn ’ t like the idea of the Baggies even having to concern themselves with this date , simply because they ’ d have been promoted already with any luck !
The Wembley showpiece , with more than 80,000 people inside one stadium , is currently a big no no as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 500 people .
The European Championships , which take place every four years , was set to take place across a range of stadiums in multiple countries this summer .
The prospect of international travel , mass gatherings and the rise of the coronavirus must plunge this tournament into serious doubt , however .
Indeed there have been reports already that this week suggesting UEFA will postpone the competition by a year , and this is expected to be high on the list of addressed topics when they sit down next week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in to return in August as normal , but what impact will the coronavirus have had on English football by that stage ?
Will this current season have been completed by then , or will the suspension remain in tact ?
Frustratingly , only time will tell if the Premier League - which may or may not have Albion involved in it - commences on time .

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Leeds United and West Brom should not be automatically promoted to the Premier League if the season is forced to end early.
That's the verdict of Premier League legend turned pundit, Alan Shearer.
One of the suggestions for coping with the coronavirus is that both clubs could be automatically promoted without the season reaching a conclusion.
A controversial suggestion that everyone has an opinion on, Shearer included.
He told the Sun: "If you cannot complete the fixtures then you cannot go handing out titles or consider relegating anybody.
"People have spoken of bringing Leeds and West Brom up from the Championship — but there would be uproar from other clubs.
"Sitting seven and six points above third with nine games to go, there is no guarantee they would finish in the top two.
"If there's no alternative than to cancel all remaining league fixtures, then the only logical decision should be to void the entire campaign.
"While it would be harsh on some clubs that are chasing promotion, or league titles, it can't really be helped.
"Every angle and scenario has to be looked at in order to reach a conclusion, even if that means a long delay before playing into next season.
"If, and it is a huge if, the season cannot be completed then there is no way you can have a winner or loser.
"As harsh and as horrible as that would be for some clubs, none more so than Liverpool, it is the only outcome."
Football in England - and indeed around the world - is on hold amid the global coronavirus crisis.
The authorities are planning on coming together next week to hold talks over what the next step may be, and the various eventualities in which the remainder of the 2019-20 campaign may play out.
The suspension of football doesn’t stop at home, though.
Internationally, UEFA have two significant competitions reaching their climax for the season, while Euro 2020 - set to take place across the continent this summer, as opposed to having a single nation as hosts - is scheduled to go ahead this summer.
Here are the key dates for your diaries.
Tuesday 17 March - UEFA meeting
This coming week European governing body UEFA have called an emergency meeting to discuss football on this continent and their planned response to the outbreak.
All 55 member associations, together with the boards of the European Club Association and the European Leagues and a representative of FIFPro, have all been invited to attend the discussions via webcam.
The range of topics will include the Champions League, the Europa League, the qualifying rounds of those respective competitions for the 2021 season and Euro 2020 itself.
Wednesday 18 March - EFL meeting
A board meeting involving all Football League clubs is believed to be scheduled for this coming Wednesday, as they decide on their own plan of action.
Plenty is up for discussion, including how the land lies with promotion and relegation and the knock-on effect their decisions could have at the top and bottom of the Championship, League One and League Two.
It’s already been pointed out, too, that the longer the suspension remains in place clubs towards the bottom of the footballing ladder who rely on ticket revenue will struggle in a financial sense.
Thursday 19 March - Premier League emergency meeting
The top flight, who made the decision to suspend their competition this week, will hold an emergency meeting on Thursday to hold talks over the plans in the mid-term.
They announced the decision to put all matches on hold until April 3 after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for the virus.
New Premier League chief executive Richard Masters was only appointed in December as a replacement for the outgoing Richard Scudamore.
(Image: John Walton/PA Wire)
Friday 3 April - football returns?
All Premier League and EFL football has been suspended until Friday, April 3 at the earliest - though the operative word here is most certainly the latter.
Blackburn Rovers had been selected by Sky Sports for a televised fixture as they were set to welcome table topping Leeds United on April 3, but in reality it’s widely expected that the suspension will be extended.
Indeed the Department of Health have indicated that 95% of all cases in the UK could be reached by June time, a date which would put an indefinite ban on English football.
Saturday 2 May - the season is due to end
For the Championship, their final fixtures were set to take place on the first weekend of May, a Bank Holiday weekend.
West Brom were due to welcome Queens Park Rangers to The Hawthorns for a 12:30 kick off.
Monday 25 May - Championship play-off final
All Albion fans wouldn’t like the idea of the Baggies even having to concern themselves with this date, simply because they’d have been promoted already with any luck!
The Wembley showpiece, with more than 80,000 people inside one stadium, is currently a big no no as the government discourage all public gatherings of more than 500 people.
Friday 12 June - the beginning of Euro 2020
The European Championships, which take place every four years, was set to take place across a range of stadiums in multiple countries this summer.
The prospect of international travel, mass gatherings and the rise of the coronavirus must plunge this tournament into serious doubt, however.
Indeed there have been reports already that this week suggesting UEFA will postpone the competition by a year, and this is expected to be high on the list of addressed topics when they sit down next week.
Saturday 8 August - Premier League returns
The top flight has been pencilled in to return in August as normal, but what impact will the coronavirus have had on English football by that stage?
Will this current season have been completed by then, or will the suspension remain in tact? Frustratingly, only time will tell if the Premier League - which may or may not have Albion involved in it - commences on time.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--GMB's Dr Hilary wades into coronavirus debate over school closures

Good Morning Britain 's Dr Hilary Jones has entered the debate on when schools should close amid the coronavirus crisis .
It comes after some schools in London closed their doors to pupils and Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar announced last week that all schools , colleges and other public facilities would close in the Republic of Ireland .
GMB host Piers Morgan quizzed Dr Hilary on how safe it was to leave some schools open despite ongoing coronavirus concerns , Mirror Online reports .
Dr Hilary , who has been a TV medical expert for more than 30 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'hotspots ' of the virus have been identified , but this is not currently possible because tests are not being carried out .
He called it a `` concern '' that people were not all being rigorously tested for the virus , also known as COVID 19 .
The doctor also added : `` If you put people in lockdown too early , what happens when they come out of lockdown ?
We will only know which is the correct approach in many months to come , '' he explained .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , coronavirus has claimed the lives of 35 people in the UK .
An estimated 1,372 people have been diagnosed with the virus as of 9am yesterday .
A tweet from Good Morning Britain 's page summarised Dr Hilary 's thoughts : `` Coronavirus update : 'The time to close schools is when we get a hotspot of the virus . '
'If we do n't test people then we do n't know where the hotspots are . '
`` @ DrHilaryjones says it is a 'concern ' that healthcare professionals are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morning Britain viewers have slammed Piers for `` talking over '' Dr Hilary .
One viewers wrote on Twitter : `` Piers , please let Dr Hilary speak and stop talking over the top of him .
Dr Hilary is a medical expert - with many years of experience .
Your tone is very aggressive this morning .
# GMB `` Another added : `` Dr Hilary doing his bit to calm the nation , talk sense about # Coronavirus with a medical background but getting talked over by Piers Morgan who as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , stop scaremongering the nation , all you are doing is fuelling panic # GMB `` A third said : `` There he goes , @ piersmorgan not getting the negative responses he wanted from Dr. Hilary , so resorts to talking over him .
So predictable .
# GMB ``

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Thomas Lynch, Brett Gibbons)

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Good Morning Britain's Dr Hilary Jones has entered the debate on when schools should close amid the coronavirus crisis.
It comes after some schools in London closed their doors to pupils and Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar announced last week that all schools, colleges and other public facilities would close in the Republic of Ireland.
GMB host Piers Morgan quizzed Dr Hilary on how safe it was to leave some schools open despite ongoing coronavirus concerns, Mirror Online reports.
Dr Hilary, who has been a TV medical expert for more than 30 years, argued schools should only shut once 'hotspots' of the virus have been identified, but this is not currently possible because tests are not being carried out.
Coronavirus blog
He called it a "concern" that people were not all being rigorously tested for the virus, also known as COVID 19.
The doctor also added: "If you put people in lockdown too early, what happens when they come out of lockdown? We will only know which is the correct approach in many months to come," he explained.
According to the latest figures from Public Health England, coronavirus has claimed the lives of 35 people in the UK.
An estimated 1,372 people have been diagnosed with the virus as of 9am yesterday.
A tweet from Good Morning Britain's page summarised Dr Hilary's thoughts: "Coronavirus update: 'The time to close schools is when we get a hotspot of the virus.' 'If we don't test people then we don't know where the hotspots are.'
" @DrHilaryjones says it is a 'concern' that healthcare professionals are not even being tested."
Some Good Morning Britain viewers have slammed Piers for "talking over" Dr Hilary.
One viewers wrote on Twitter: "Piers, please let Dr Hilary speak and stop talking over the top of him. Dr Hilary is a medical expert - with many years of experience. Your tone is very aggressive this morning. #GMB "
Another added: "Dr Hilary doing his bit to calm the nation, talk sense about #Coronavirus with a medical background but getting talked over by Piers Morgan who as always is trying to force his ideas, stop scaremongering the nation, all you are doing is fuelling panic #GMB "
A third said: "There he goes, @piersmorgan not getting the negative responses he wanted from Dr. Hilary, so resorts to talking over him. So predictable. #GMB "
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.


birminghammail--2020-03-16--Primark closes stores as coronavirus ravages sales

Primark has been forced to close stores accounting for nearly a third of its sales , as European governments shut down high streets to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
Owner Associated British Foods ( AB Foods ) said the budget retailer 's stores in France , Spain and Austria were expected to make sales of £190 million over the next four weeks - representing around 20 per cent of its business around the world .
Governments in the three countries have forced all non-essential stores to close in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
The outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as people stay away from high street shops .
This includes the UK , where Primark makes 41 per cent of its sales .
Read all the latest updates on coronavirus in Birmingham and the Black Country here '' We are managing the business appropriately but do not expect to significantly mitigate the effect of the contribution lost from these sales , '' AB Foods said .
There was happier news from China .
In February Primark had warned that its factories there were closing , which could have a knock-on effect on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the factories which supply it have now re-opened , the company confirmed on Monday .
`` As a result , supply shortages from that country are now expected to be minimal , '' AB Foods said in a statement .
The company added : `` Our priority continues to be the health and safety of our colleagues , customers and partners .
Each of our businesses are closely monitoring the current and potential effects of the outbreak on their operations . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (August Graham, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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Primark has been forced to close stores accounting for nearly a third of its sales, as European governments shut down high streets to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Owner Associated British Foods (AB Foods) said the budget retailer's stores in France, Spain and Austria were expected to make sales of £190 million over the next four weeks - representing around 20 per cent of its business around the world.
Governments in the three countries have forced all non-essential stores to close in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The outbreak has also seen sales falling elsewhere, as people stay away from high street shops. This includes the UK, where Primark makes 41 per cent of its sales.
"We are managing the business appropriately but do not expect to significantly mitigate the effect of the contribution lost from these sales," AB Foods said.
There was happier news from China. In February Primark had warned that its factories there were closing, which could have a knock-on effect on its supply chain.
However most of the factories which supply it have now re-opened, the company confirmed on Monday.
"As a result, supply shortages from that country are now expected to be minimal," AB Foods said in a statement.
The company added: "Our priority continues to be the health and safety of our colleagues, customers and partners. Each of our businesses are closely monitoring the current and potential effects of the outbreak on their operations."