birminghammail--2020-02-11--Pundit sends transfer warning about £15m Aston Villa striker target

Crystal Palace have been warned that Crystal Palace need to keep hold of Alexander Sorloth , amid reports that Aston Villa could launch a big money move .
Sorloth is currently on loan at Trabzonspor and has been linked with a move to Villa in the Turkish press in recent days .
It was claimed Villa sent scouts to watch Sorloth in action against Fenerbahce last weekend as they begin to formulate a plan for the summer transfer window .
And the latest reports in the Turkish media has suggested that Villa could bid as much as £15m for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the season at the weekend and former Palace striker , Ian Wright , feels he is exactly what Roy Hodgson 's goal-shy team need .
“ We ’ re looking at Sorloth , he ’ s gone to Trabzonspor , ” Wright told BBC Five Live .
“ I know he wasn ’ t quite kicking off here , but as a striker , you kind of just wait , because something might happen .
“ Now he ’ s got 21 goals in 32 games , you need something like that.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a two-year loan in August 2018 and it is understood there is a £6m buyout clause to make that move permanent in the summer .
Palace - who signed Sorloth for £9m from FC Midtjylland in January 2018 - reportedly do not have a recall option in place for the 24-year-old .
That means the Denmark international would likely have to formally request a move elsewhere in the summer .

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Crystal Palace have been warned that Crystal Palace need to keep hold of Alexander Sorloth, amid reports that Aston Villa could launch a big money move.
Sorloth is currently on loan at Trabzonspor and has been linked with a move to Villa in the Turkish press in recent days.
It was claimed Villa sent scouts to watch Sorloth in action against Fenerbahce last weekend as they begin to formulate a plan for the summer transfer window.
(Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
And the latest reports in the Turkish media has suggested that Villa could bid as much as £15m for the 24-year-old.
Sorloth bagged his 21st goal of the season at the weekend and former Palace striker, Ian Wright, feels he is exactly what Roy Hodgson's goal-shy team need.
“We’re looking at Sorloth, he’s gone to Trabzonspor,” Wright told BBC Five Live. “ I know he wasn’t quite kicking off here, but as a striker, you kind of just wait, because something might happen.
“Now he’s got 21 goals in 32 games, you need something like that.”
Sorloth joined the Turkish side on a two-year loan in August 2018 and it is understood there is a £6m buyout clause to make that move permanent in the summer.
Palace - who signed Sorloth for £9m from FC Midtjylland in January 2018 - reportedly do not have a recall option in place for the 24-year-old.
That means the Denmark international would likely have to formally request a move elsewhere in the summer.


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Girl arrested after drugs and weapons seized from car

Two men and a girl from Birmingham have been arrested after drugs and weapons were seized in a Midlands towns .
Officers were forced to smash their way into the silver Vauxhall Astra after it was stopped in Trent Street , Burton-upon-Trent , at around 12pm on Tuesday , February 11 .
Class A drugs , phones and two baseball bats were seized , a spokesman for Staffordshire Police said .
Two men , aged 22 and 23 , and a 16-year-old girl , all from Birmingham , were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the scene shows wraps of suspected class A drugs and baseball bats seized from the car , which has damage to the window .
A spokesman for the force added : “ Three arrests were made this lunchtime ( Feb 11 ) as officers stopped a car in Burton and seized baseball bats and class A drugs .
“ Entry had to be forced into a silver Vauxhall Astra after it was stopped at noon in Trent Street , Burton .
“ Class A drugs , phones and two baseball bats were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 and 23 , and a 16-year-old girl , all from Birmingham , were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs .
“ They remain in custody .
”

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Two men and a girl from Birmingham have been arrested after drugs and weapons were seized in a Midlands towns.
Officers were forced to smash their way into the silver Vauxhall Astra after it was stopped in Trent Street, Burton-upon-Trent, at around 12pm on Tuesday, February 11.
Class A drugs, phones and two baseball bats were seized, a spokesman for Staffordshire Police said.
Two men, aged 22 and 23, and a 16-year-old girl, all from Birmingham, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs and remain in custody.
Pictures from the scene shows wraps of suspected class A drugs and baseball bats seized from the car, which has damage to the window.
A spokesman for the force added: “Three arrests were made this lunchtime (Feb 11) as officers stopped a car in Burton and seized baseball bats and class A drugs.
“Entry had to be forced into a silver Vauxhall Astra after it was stopped at noon in Trent Street, Burton.
“Class A drugs, phones and two baseball bats were seized.
“Two men, aged 22 and 23, and a 16-year-old girl, all from Birmingham, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
“They remain in custody.”


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Everything you need to know about BBC'S The Split series two - the cast and what time it's on TV

The Split is back for a second series on the BBC tonight .
Written by Abi Morgan , The Split is set in the fast-paced , messy world of London ’ s high-end divorce circuit .
The drama series follows the Defoe sisters and their family following a tense first series that ended two years ago .
Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan , who play Hannah and Nathan , reprise their roles as a formerly rock solid couple who 's relationship starts to crack following the devastating revelation of Nathan ’ s affair in the last series .
Here 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new series .
When The Split is on TV The Split starts on BBC One tonight at 9pm .
At the end of the first series , Hannah ’ s formerly solid marriage was beginning to crack following the devastating revelation of Nathan ’ s affair .
For the rest of the family , and Hannah , joy had turned to tragedy as estranged father Oscar passed away the night of Rose and James ’ wedding .
Struggling with the grief of losing her father for the second time in her life and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her clear , Hannah was torn between her past and the promise of a different future .
What to expect in series two Series two will see Hannah battle between forgiving Nathan for his affair but also continuing her own affair with Christie .
There 's also drama for the Defoe sisters and their mum Ruth , following the merger with law firm Noble & Hale .
We ’ ll also be exploring a new high-profile divorce case as Hannah meets new client , TV presenter Fi Hansen , who needs help escaping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Hannah Stern is a divorce lawyer , from the Defoes – a family of female divorce lawyers , which includes her sisters and mum .
She 's married to Nathan and they have three children .
Where you 've seen Nicola before : Name a TV series and she 's probably been in it .
Some of her more recent roles include DCI Cassie Stuart in 'Unforgotten ' and Gillian in 'Last Tango in Halifax ' .
Nathan is the husband of Hannah who had an affair in series one .
Where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known for his comic roles , Stephen played Sean Lincoln in 'Episodes ' and Dan Moody in ' I ’ m Alan Partridge ' .
Barry Atsma is an old flame of Hannah 's who is a family lawyer at Noble & Hale , which becomes Noble Hale Defoe in series two .
Where you 've seen Barry before : The Dutch actor played Arjen in 'Episodes ' alongside Mangan and also played Moreno in 'The Hitman 's Bodyguard ' .
Where you 've seen Deborah before : Deborah has a heaving portfolio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including roles in 'Collateral ' , 'Vanity Fair ' and 'Torchwood ' .
Nina is Hannah 's sister and works under their mum at Defoe 's as a divorce lawyer .
Where you 've seen Annabel before : Annabel 's recent roles have included Amena in 'Britannia ' and Contessina in 'Medici ' .
Rose is the youngest of the Defoe sisters who married fiancé James in the last series .
Her estranged dad died the same night .
Where you 've seen Fiona before : Fiona 's work includes playing the roles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tess Roberts in 'Lip Service ' .
Where you 've seen Rudi before : His most recent credits are 'Tin Star ' and 'Dark Money ' .
Fi Hansen is a well-known TV personality who approaches Hannah Stern for a divorce from her controlling husband Richie Hansen .
Where you 've seen Donna before : Donna has had a varied career in music and acting .
She kicked off her acting career as Charlie Carlton in 'Byker Grove ' and has appeared in 'The Mummy Returns ' and 'Hollyoaks ' .
Richie is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with .
Where you 've seen Ben before : Like Donna , Ben has also had a varied in music and acting .
His acting roles have included Lt Col Ben Carmichael in the most recent series of 'Silent Witness ' and Blake in 'Clearing Up ' .
Where you 've seen Chukwudi before : He 's played the roles of Dr Eli Mays in 'Designated Survivor ' , and playing Colin Moore in the hit Netflix drama 'When They See Us ' .
Where you 've seen Amaka before : She ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' , 'Grandpa in My Pocket ' , and 'Kicking Off ' .
Maggie is a junior lawyer at Noble Hale Defoe and has previously been a friend to Hannah .
Where you 've seen Ellora before : Ellora 's previous roles have included 'Midsommar ' and 'Dark Money ' .
Where you 've seen Toby before : Toby recently played Hayden in 'Dark Money ' .

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The Split is back for a second series on the BBC tonight.
Written by Abi Morgan, The Split is set in the fast-paced, messy world of London’s high-end divorce circuit.
The drama series follows the Defoe sisters and their family following a tense first series that ended two years ago.
Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan, who play Hannah and Nathan, reprise their roles as a formerly rock solid couple who's relationship starts to crack following the devastating revelation of Nathan’s affair in the last series.
(Image: BBC)
Here's everything you need to know about the new series.
When The Split is on TV
The Split starts on BBC One tonight at 9pm.
Series one recap
At the end of the first series, Hannah’s formerly solid marriage was beginning to crack following the devastating revelation of Nathan’s affair.
For the rest of the family, and Hannah, joy had turned to tragedy as estranged father Oscar passed away the night of Rose and James’ wedding.
Struggling with the grief of losing her father for the second time in her life and with Christie having made his feelings for her clear, Hannah was torn between her past and the promise of a different future.
What to expect in series two
Series two will see Hannah battle between forgiving Nathan for his affair but also continuing her own affair with Christie.
There's also drama for the Defoe sisters and their mum Ruth, following the merger with law firm Noble & Hale.
We’ll also be exploring a new high-profile divorce case as Hannah meets new client, TV presenter Fi Hansen, who needs help escaping her marriage to music producer Richie Hansen.
The cast
Nicola Walker as Hannah Stern
Hannah Stern is a divorce lawyer, from the Defoes – a family of female divorce lawyers, which includes her sisters and mum.
She's married to Nathan and they have three children.
Where you've seen Nicola before: Name a TV series and she's probably been in it. Some of her more recent roles include DCI Cassie Stuart in 'Unforgotten' and Gillian in 'Last Tango in Halifax'.
Stephen Mangan as Nathan
Nathan is the husband of Hannah who had an affair in series one.
Where you've seen Stephen before: Best known for his comic roles, Stephen played Sean Lincoln in 'Episodes' and Dan Moody in 'I’m Alan Partridge'.
Barry Atsma as Christie
Barry Atsma is an old flame of Hannah's who is a family lawyer at Noble & Hale, which becomes Noble Hale Defoe in series two.
Where you've seen Barry before: The Dutch actor played Arjen in 'Episodes' alongside Mangan and also played Moreno in 'The Hitman's Bodyguard'.
Deborah Findlay as Ruth Defoe
Ruth Defoe is Hannah's mother and owns law firm Defoe's.
Where you've seen Deborah before: Deborah has a heaving portfolio of both stage and screen roles, including roles in 'Collateral', 'Vanity Fair' and 'Torchwood'.
Annabel Scholey as Nina
Nina is Hannah's sister and works under their mum at Defoe's as a divorce lawyer.
Where you've seen Annabel before: Annabel's recent roles have included Amena in 'Britannia' and Contessina in 'Medici'.
Fiona Button as Rose Defoe
Rose is the youngest of the Defoe sisters who married fiancé James in the last series. Her estranged dad died the same night.
Where you've seen Fiona before: Fiona's work includes playing the roles of Jennifer Chambers in 'Grantchester' and Tess Roberts in 'Lip Service'.
Rudi Dharmalingam as James
James is Rose's husband.
Where you've seen Rudi before: His most recent credits are 'Tin Star' and 'Dark Money'.
Donna Air as Fi Hansen
Fi Hansen is a well-known TV personality who approaches Hannah Stern for a divorce from her controlling husband Richie Hansen.
Where you've seen Donna before: Donna has had a varied career in music and acting. She kicked off her acting career as Charlie Carlton in 'Byker Grove' and has appeared in 'The Mummy Returns' and 'Hollyoaks'.
Ben Bailey Smith as Richie Hansen
Richie is Fi's controlling husband who she performs with.
Where you've seen Ben before: Like Donna, Ben has also had a varied in music and acting. His acting roles have included Lt Col Ben Carmichael in the most recent series of 'Silent Witness' and Blake in 'Clearing Up'.
Chukwudi Iwuji as Zander Hale
Zander plays the boss of newly-merged law firm, Noble Hale Defoe.
Where you've seen Chukwudi before: He's played the roles of Dr Eli Mays in 'Designated Survivor', and playing Colin Moore in the hit Netflix drama 'When They See Us'.
Amaka Okafor as Chloe
Chloe is a trainee lawyer working with Nathan.
Where you've seen Amaka before: She’s appeared in 'Vera', 'Doctors', 'Grandpa in My Pocket', and 'Kicking Off'.
Ellora Torchia as Maggie
Maggie is a junior lawyer at Noble Hale Defoe and has previously been a friend to Hannah.
Where you've seen Ellora before: Ellora's previous roles have included 'Midsommar' and 'Dark Money'.
Toby Oliver as Vinnie Stern
Vinnie is Hannah and Nathan's son.
Where you've seen Toby before: Toby recently played Hayden in 'Dark Money'.


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Ex-Aston Villa loanee Axel Tuanzebe reveals his Manchester United frustrations

Axel Tuanzebe has revealed the frustrations he has suffered since returning to Manchester United at the end of last season .
The central defender enjoyed two seasons on-loan with Aston Villa , with his final game coming in the play-off final win at Wembley last May .
Many Villa fans were desperate for the 22-year-old to join Dean Smith 's squad for their Premier League return , but he opted to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford .
That decision was rewarded as his boyhood club signed him to a new , three-year deal , with an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after playing over 30 times in all competitions last season , Tuanzebe has once again , been forced to bide his time with his Red Devils .
He has started just two Premier League games , with lingering injury problems and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's other defensive options , limiting his chances .
Tuanzebe is believed to be close to a return , but is currently training away from United 's first team .
And in a recent interview the former Villa favourite spoke of his annoyance at not building on last season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season has been a bit frustrating , ” he told the club ’ s official site.
“ There have been many opportunities that I could have exploited but it was n't to be .
“ Last season I played a lot of games on loan at Villa and I wanted to replicate that this season .
There are still three competitions left that we can go for .
“ I want to be heavily involved in that , help the side to win trophies and get into those Champions League places.
” Despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season , Tuanzebe is still hoping to build upon his experiences in the closing months .
On his goals for the rest of the campaign , he added : “ A lot of things , but just to help the team grow really .
“ I think we are a very young side , so just being a leader constantly , whether it be vocally or by example , and just help us to develop and grow as a team and obviously improve myself in the process .
”

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Axel Tuanzebe has revealed the frustrations he has suffered since returning to Manchester United at the end of last season.
The central defender enjoyed two seasons on-loan with Aston Villa, with his final game coming in the play-off final win at Wembley last May.
Many Villa fans were desperate for the 22-year-old to join Dean Smith's squad for their Premier League return, but he opted to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford.
That decision was rewarded as his boyhood club signed him to a new, three-year deal, with an option of a fourth.
However, after playing over 30 times in all competitions last season, Tuanzebe has once again, been forced to bide his time with his Red Devils.
He has started just two Premier League games, with lingering injury problems and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's other defensive options, limiting his chances.
Tuanzebe is believed to be close to a return, but is currently training away from United's first team. And in a recent interview the former Villa favourite spoke of his annoyance at not building on last season's successes.
“Yeah, this season has been a bit frustrating,” he told the club’s official site.“There have been many opportunities that I could have exploited but it wasn't to be.
“Last season I played a lot of games on loan at Villa and I wanted to replicate that this season. There are still three competitions left that we can go for.
“I want to be heavily involved in that, help the side to win trophies and get into those Champions League places.”
Despite a less than ideal first half of the season, Tuanzebe is still hoping to build upon his experiences in the closing months.
On his goals for the rest of the campaign, he added: “A lot of things, but just to help the team grow really.
“ I think we are a very young side, so just being a leader constantly, whether it be vocally or by example, and just help us to develop and grow as a team and obviously improve myself in the process.”


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Football Manager predicts final Premier League table - and it's great news for Aston Villa

With Aston Villa just one point above the relegation zone with 25 points , Dean Smith 's side know they have a fight on their hands if they are to retain their Premier League status next season .
Villa have 13 games left in the 2019/20 season to secure Premier League safety and they 'll have to do it without star striker Wesley Moraes , who is out until the end of the season , and key midfielder John McGinn , who is likely to be missing until March at the earliest .
But the Villains did strengthen their squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston , with Danny Drinkwater and youngster Louie Barry also arriving at Villa Park .
So , how will Villa get on in their remaining 13 games ?
And , how would the table look at the end of the season ?
We used popular football management simulation game Football Manager 2020 to find out .
To set up this simulation , the guys at Football Manager kindly supplied us with a save game with an updated database featuring all the latest signings , manager changes and crucially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table .
We also manually added in injuries to Wesley and John McGinn , to make the game more realistic .
We then simulated the rest of the 2019/20 Premier League season ourselves , to see how the final 2019/20 Premier League table could look .
And it through up some very interesting results .
Here is the league table as of February 7th 2020 , with all the accurate results and fixtures added in .
Before we look at the final predicted Premier League table , let 's take a look at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final few months of the season .
Football Manager predicts that Villa will earn a hard-fought draw against Spurs at Villa Park in their next fixture , which could be a good point at the end of the season .
The game also predicts that John McGinn will make an instant impact on his return to full fitness , returning in the game against Leicester at the start of March and scoring the only goal of the game in a 0-1 away win .
In the penultimate game of the season , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their most important result of the campaign , with Samatta scoring a goal within 40 seconds to earn the Villains three points against Arsenal at Villa Park .
And they 'll also finish the season with a flourish , Samatta and Drinkwater scoring in an impressive 0-3 away win at the London Stadium against David Moyes ' West Ham .
Here is how the season played out in full for Aston Villa in the Premier League , with all 13 of their remaining games predicted by Football Manager 2020 below .
Villa 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season was four wins , six draws and just three defeats , bringing 18 points from 39 available , which saw them reach a points tally of 43 points .
So , would that be enough to secure Premier League survival ?
The answer was a firm yes , with Dean Smith 's side securing a 13th place league finish , six points off the relegation zone , with Norwich , Bournemouth and Watford dropping down to the Championship .
Their two consecutive wins in the final two games proving absolutely vital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Aston Villa will manage to secure a bunch of impressive results in the final few months of the season , despite their injury issues , securing Premier League survival with 43 points .
The game also predicts that Samatta will have a big impact in some important fixtures , scoring in wins over Arsenal and West Ham , with John McGinn 's return also proving to be a massive boost .
Obviously , this is just a prediction , but it 's very interesting nonetheless !
What do you make of the @ @ @ @ @

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With Aston Villa just one point above the relegation zone with 25 points, Dean Smith's side know they have a fight on their hands if they are to retain their Premier League status next season.
Villa have 13 games left in the 2019/20 season to secure Premier League safety and they'll have to do it without star striker Wesley Moraes, who is out until the end of the season, and key midfielder John McGinn, who is likely to be missing until March at the earliest.
But the Villains did strengthen their squad in January, bringing in two strikers in Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston, with Danny Drinkwater and youngster Louie Barry also arriving at Villa Park.
So, how will Villa get on in their remaining 13 games?
And, how would the table look at the end of the season?
We used popular football management simulation game Football Manager 2020 to find out.
The final 2019/20 Premier League table predicted by Football Manager 2020
To set up this simulation, the guys at Football Manager kindly supplied us with a save game with an updated database featuring all the latest signings, manager changes and crucially, updated fixtures, results and league table. We also manually added in injuries to Wesley and John McGinn, to make the game more realistic.
We then simulated the rest of the 2019/20 Premier League season ourselves, to see how the final 2019/20 Premier League table could look.
And it through up some very interesting results.
Here is the league table as of February 7th 2020, with all the accurate results and fixtures added in.
Before we look at the final predicted Premier League table, let's take a look at some of Villa's key games in the final few months of the season.
Aston Villa 0-0 Tottenham - February 16 2020
Football Manager predicts that Villa will earn a hard-fought draw against Spurs at Villa Park in their next fixture, which could be a good point at the end of the season.
Leicester City 0-1 Aston Villa - March 8 2020
The game also predicts that John McGinn will make an instant impact on his return to full fitness, returning in the game against Leicester at the start of March and scoring the only goal of the game in a 0-1 away win.
Aston Villa 1-0 Arsenal - May 6 2020
In the penultimate game of the season, FM predicts that Villa will secure arguably their most important result of the campaign, with Samatta scoring a goal within 40 seconds to earn the Villains three points against Arsenal at Villa Park.
West Ham 0-3 Aston Villa - May 17 2020
And they'll also finish the season with a flourish, Samatta and Drinkwater scoring in an impressive 0-3 away win at the London Stadium against David Moyes' West Ham.
Ashley Preece
Here is how the season played out in full for Aston Villa in the Premier League, with all 13 of their remaining games predicted by Football Manager 2020 below.
Villa's record in the final 13 games of the season was four wins, six draws and just three defeats, bringing 18 points from 39 available, which saw them reach a points tally of 43 points.
So, would that be enough to secure Premier League survival?
Follow Esports and gaming writer Nathan Bliss on social media To follow Nathan on Twitter, click here. To follow Reach Gaming on Twitter, click here. To follow Nathan on Facebook, click here.
The answer was a firm yes, with Dean Smith's side securing a 13th place league finish, six points off the relegation zone, with Norwich, Bournemouth and Watford dropping down to the Championship.
Their two consecutive wins in the final two games proving absolutely vital.
So, Football Manager 2020 predicts that Aston Villa will manage to secure a bunch of impressive results in the final few months of the season, despite their injury issues, securing Premier League survival with 43 points.
The game also predicts that Samatta will have a big impact in some important fixtures, scoring in wins over Arsenal and West Ham, with John McGinn's return also proving to be a massive boost.
Obviously, this is just a prediction, but it's very interesting nonetheless!
What do you make of the Football Manager 2020 prediction?


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Birmingham City fans are all saying the same thing about tonight's team to face Barnsley

Birmingham City fans have been reacting to tonight 's team for the Championship clash with Barnsley at Oakwell .
Pep Clotet 's side are hoping to follow up an exccellent performance and display at Bristol City on Friday night , one that saw Blues run out 3-1 winners at Ashton Gate .
Blues are back on the road again tonight , travelling to a Barnsley side that are eight points adrift from safety , sitting in 23rd place with 25 points from 31 games .
With Blues having eased their own relegation fears with back-to-back wins , they could put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and themselves with another victory .
Clotet has made one change to the side that won in Bristol , with Jeremie Bela dropping to the bench in place of Jefferson Montero , the former managing a hamstring issue for the last few weeks .
Here 's what the fans have said on social media tonight ... @ Tom12956152 : Better team than Barnsley ’ s but why drop Bela ?
@ Nevaldo77 : Best player on the bench @ gpulds : Bela on the bench ?
That ’ s like not having bacon @ @ @ @ @ @

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Birmingham City fans have been reacting to tonight's team for the Championship clash with Barnsley at Oakwell.
Pep Clotet's side are hoping to follow up an exccellent performance and display at Bristol City on Friday night, one that saw Blues run out 3-1 winners at Ashton Gate.
Blues are back on the road again tonight, travelling to a Barnsley side that are eight points adrift from safety, sitting in 23rd place with 25 points from 31 games.
With Blues having eased their own relegation fears with back-to-back wins, they could put further space between Wigan Athletic in 22nd and themselves with another victory.
Clotet has made one change to the side that won in Bristol, with Jeremie Bela dropping to the bench in place of Jefferson Montero, the former managing a hamstring issue for the last few weeks.
Here's what the fans have said on social media tonight...
@ JoeHill93003491 : Bela dropped pep are u alright???
@ BrexitTackle : Big L why no Bela
@ Tom12956152 : Better team than Barnsley’s but why drop Bela?
@ JamieHu66314027 : Bela on the bench
@ davrosflatlee : Nah no bela no party
@ shep1875 : Bela?
@ timhutchinson97 : No Bela, no W
@ Nevaldo77 : Best player on the bench
@ gpulds : Bela on the bench? That’s like not having bacon and sausage on a fry up


birminghammail--2020-02-11--Barnsley vs Birmingham City: Pep Clotet makes one change to his side at Oakwell

Winger Jefferson Montero returns for Birmingham City at Barnsley this evening .
The 30-year-old comes into the side at Oakwell @ @ @ @ @ on to the bench .
It is just his second Championship start for Blues - @ @ @ @ @ minutes against Coventry a week ago .
Bela has been managing a hamstring issue for @ @ @ @ @ Dan Crowley returns on the bench .
Lee Camp continues in goal , protected by @ @ @ @ @ , Jake Clarke-Salter and Kristian Pedersen .
Montero starts on one flank , Jude Bellingham @ @ @ @ @ Sunjic and Gary Gardner in the middle .

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Winger Jefferson Montero returns for Birmingham City at Barnsley this evening.
The 30-year-old comes into the side at Oakwell, with Jeremie Bela dropping on to the bench.
It is just his second Championship start for Blues - and first since playing 120 minutes against Coventry a week ago.
Bela has been managing a hamstring issue for the last few weeks. Dan Crowley returns on the bench.
Lee Camp continues in goal, protected by Maxime Colin, Marc Roberts, Jake Clarke-Salter and Kristian Pedersen.
Montero starts on one flank, Jude Bellingham on the other and Ivan Sunjic and Gary Gardner in the middle.
Scott Hogan and Lukas Jutkiewicz continue up front.
Barnsley: Collins, Jordan Williams, Sollbauer, Andersen, Oduor Styles, Mowatt, Simoes, Woodrow, Brown, Chaplin.
Subs: Dougall Bahre, Walton, Ludewig, Thomas, Schmidt, Halme.
Birmingham: Camp, Colin, Roberts, Clarke-Salter, Pedersen Montero, Gary Gardner, Sunjic, Bellingham, Hogan, Jutkiewicz.
Subs: Harding, Crowley, Bela, Dean, Trueman, Keita, Boyd-Munce.
Referee: Dean Whitestone (Northamptonshire)


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Chinese people in Birmingham 'told to go home' and abused in wake of coronavirus outbreak

Chinese people in Birmingham are said to be suffering rising levels of racism following the coronavirus outbreak - including being abused in the streets .
Recent alleged incidents have included an elderly women being told to ‘ go home ’ and teenage boys shouting ‘ the Chinese are killing us ’ at a girl .
One shocking message sent to Digbeth-based Chinese Community Centre read : “ The disgusting , barbaric animal cruelty you people do - you all deserve to get the virus.
” There are around 400,000 Chinese people living in England and Wales and there have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Newcastle , York and Manchester .
Kate Gordon is from the Chinese Community Centre , an organisation which provides information and advice to Brum 's Chinese community .
She said some some people were now altering their commuting routines to avoid peak times and potential conflict .
She said : “ It ’ s happening on the streets , bus stops and in one case in the city centre .
“ On January 26 , we got a message which said , ‘ The disgusting , barbaric animal cruelty you people do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus . '
“ On Monday , somebody was trying to sign into the premises ( location tracker ) and wrote ‘ not afraid of the virus achooo ’ .
`` I actually thought they were in the building and checked but there wasn ’ t anybody here .
“ We heard of an elderly Chinese lady in her 80s in Selly Oak who was shouted at in the street and told to ‘ go home ’ by a woman .
“ A young girl was shouted at by a group of teenage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing us . '
“ One of our volunteers , who is actually Vietnamese , went to a walk-in centre and they told her to stay right back from the counter and that they couldn ’ t see her because they were fully booked .
She thought it was because she is of her Chinese appearance .
“ It ’ s not just affecting Chinese people but anyone of East Asian appearance .
“ I ’ ve heard of abuse at bus stops- these are anecdotal because people won ’ t come forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : “ Some of us prefer starting later and finishing later to avoid the rush hour because everyone is so hyper at the moment .
“ It ’ s just more comfortable to travel outside the rush hour . ''
And she said : `` I would appeal to people to look calmly at the facts - the virus is not just brought in by Chinese people or from China .
“ We are a hate crime reporting centre , so if anyone does want to make an official complaint they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to police .
”

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Chinese people in Birmingham are said to be suffering rising levels of racism following the coronavirus outbreak - including being abused in the streets.
Recent alleged incidents have included an elderly women being told to ‘go home’ and teenage boys shouting ‘the Chinese are killing us’ at a girl.
One shocking message sent to Digbeth-based Chinese Community Centre read: “The disgusting, barbaric animal cruelty you people do - you all deserve to get the virus.”
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
There are around 400,000 Chinese people living in England and Wales and there have been reports of coronavirus-related abuse in other cities including Newcastle, York and Manchester.
Kate Gordon is from the Chinese Community Centre, an organisation which provides information and advice to Brum's Chinese community.
She said some some people were now altering their commuting routines to avoid peak times and potential conflict.
She said: “It’s happening on the streets, bus stops and in one case in the city centre.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
“On January 26, we got a message which said, ‘The disgusting, barbaric animal cruelty you people do - you all deserve to get the virus.'
“On Monday, somebody was trying to sign into the premises(location tracker) and wrote ‘not afraid of the virus achooo’.
"I actually thought they were in the building and checked but there wasn’t anybody here.
“We heard of an elderly Chinese lady in her 80s in Selly Oak who was shouted at in the street and told to ‘go home’ by a woman.
“A young girl was shouted at by a group of teenage boys who said ‘the Chinese are killing us.'
“One of our volunteers, who is actually Vietnamese, went to a walk-in centre and they told her to stay right back from the counter and that they couldn’t see her because they were fully booked. She thought it was because she is of her Chinese appearance.
“It’s not just affecting Chinese people but anyone of East Asian appearance.
“I’ve heard of abuse at bus stops- these are anecdotal because people won’t come forward and make official complaints.”
Ms Gordon added: “Some of us prefer starting later and finishing later to avoid the rush hour because everyone is so hyper at the moment.
“It’s just more comfortable to travel outside the rush hour."
And she said: "I would appeal to people to look calmly at the facts - the virus is not just brought in by Chinese people or from China.
“We are a hate crime reporting centre, so if anyone does want to make an official complaint they can contact us and we will report it to police.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Birmingham hit by two-day Met Office weather warning as Storm Dennis threatens power cuts and train

Birmingham hit by two-day Met Office weather warning as Storm Dennis threatens power cuts and train chaos

Birmingham is now facing two days of weather warnings - as the Met Office issues yellow alerts for the city .
The city is facing Saturday and Sunday yellow warnings over wind as the forecasting agency issues urgent advice .
The Met Office is forecasting mostly dry weather but cold conditions on Friday morning before rain arrives later on .
Turning wet and very windy through Saturday with gales possible , forecasters at the meteorological agency say .
Remaining unsettled Sunday with further rain and strong winds , the forecast also reads .
The weather warning comes into effect on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It expires at 11.59pm on Sunday , February 16 .
The Met Office say : `` Storm Dennis will bring very strong winds over the weekend .
Disruption to travel is likely across parts of England and Wales at times . ''
The warning reads : `` Some delays to road , rail , air and ferry transport are likely and there is a chance that some roads and bridges could close .
`` Some coastal routes , sea fronts and coastal communities are likely to be affected by spray and/or large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chance of some damage to buildings , such as tiles blown from roofs .
`` There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur , with the potential to affect other services , such as mobile phone coverage . ''
Caroline Douglass , flood duty manager at the agency , said : `` River and surface water flooding is possible on Saturday into Sunday due to Storm Dennis and we are advising people to check their flood risk and to stay safe on the coast or when walking or driving near swollen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against taking `` dangerous '' so-called storm selfies .
Chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said : `` Another spell of very wet and windy weather is expected for Saturday .
`` Although Storm Dennis is currently not expected to be as severe as Ciara , disruption is still likely . ''

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Birmingham is now facing two days of weather warnings - as the Met Office issues yellow alerts for the city.
The city is facing Saturday and Sunday yellow warnings over wind as the forecasting agency issues urgent advice.
The Met Office is forecasting mostly dry weather but cold conditions on Friday morning before rain arrives later on.
Turning wet and very windy through Saturday with gales possible, forecasters at the meteorological agency say.
Remaining unsettled Sunday with further rain and strong winds, the forecast also reads.
The weather warning comes into effect on Saturday, February 15, from 10am. It expires at 11.59pm on Sunday, February 16.
The Met Office say: "Storm Dennis will bring very strong winds over the weekend. Disruption to travel is likely across parts of England and Wales at times."
The warning reads: "Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely and there is a chance that some roads and bridges could close.
"Some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities are likely to be affected by spray and/or large waves.
"There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs.
"There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage."
(Image: Peter Harbour)
Caroline Douglass, flood duty manager at the agency, said: "River and surface water flooding is possible on Saturday into Sunday due to Storm Dennis and we are advising people to check their flood risk and to stay safe on the coast or when walking or driving near swollen rivers."
She also warned people against taking "dangerous" so-called storm selfies.
Chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said: "Another spell of very wet and windy weather is expected for Saturday.
"Although Storm Dennis is currently not expected to be as severe as Ciara, disruption is still likely."


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Indiana - the story of a dog, a state, a Hollywood icon and Aston Villa's Vassilev

A crack of the whip , a phobia of snakes , a sly shrug and a quickdraw shot , that hat and those capers .
Who else would Aston Villa young-gun Indiana Vassilev be named after - and how does that link back to one of the most famous Star Wars characters of all time ?
The high-flying forward fought his way into first-team action when Villa needed him most .
Without a first team striker , he was thrown into action after earning his shot .
For both Villa and Vassilev , the chance paid off .
The forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he needed plenty of direction and encouragement from head coach Dean Smith and the Villa players on the pitch , he succeeded in being the ‘ bridge player ’ that Villa needed .
A ‘ striker ’ s run ’ from him bought space for Jack Grealish to finish against Brighton , and he also came close to nodding home against Watford .
From the bench , he was able to give Villa the forward energy and momentum that they needed from a striker , while they were without one .
With a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s first-team and didn ’ t look out of place .
Almost like his name sake .
Indiana Vassilev is admittedly a cool name - and one that would raise eyebrows in the digital world , let alone the real one .
It ’ d be barely believable for a Bulgarian-American regenerated youngster in Football Manager to hold the name , let alone a Villa youngster .
Where did that one come from ?
Well - directly from Lucasarts according to Vassilev himself .
“ I was named after Indiana Jones , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s club website - a rebuttal of assumptions that he was named after the American state of Indiana .
Being named after one of the most famous characters in the Hollywood canon is likely a little more prestigious than sharing a name with a state - as good as that state may be .
“ My mom and dad came from Bulgaria so they didn ’ t really know which states were in the US , I think there ’ s a common misconception .
“ I was named after Indiana Jones .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ( my parents ) were huge fans.
” Indiana in itself is an interesting word , and the etymological The name refers to ‘ Land of the Indians ’ using the Latin suffix ‘ -ana ’ in a similar fashion to the state of Louisiana .
Vassilev ’ s no Hoosier though .
He was born in Savannah , Georgia .
Knowing that , of course he would be named after the character !
But what is the character named after ?
Indiana Jones ’ name is Henry Jones Jr and in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in many different ways .
Henry , Professor Jones , Junior - only when using Sean Connery ’ s thick accent - Indy , and Indiana .
Indiana , is of course , a nickname - taken from the family dog , also called Indiana .
In the Young Indiana Jones series , Henry Jones Jr was said to name himself Indiana after the dog - who passed away after saving his life in the story .
It doesn ’ t stop there though , Indiana the dog , an Alaskan Malamute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own dog - a female dog of the same breed that ALSO inspired Chewbacca .
It was so big and fluffy , you see , that one might call it a ‘ monster dog ’ - and that phrase in Russian - chudovishye sobaka or Chubaka - can be anglicised into your favourite hairy spacetime companion .
It all fits together nicely - and while there ’ s no exact proof , due to the meaning of ‘ Indiana ’ we can assume Lucas ’ dog is named after the state and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In a longwinded way , the assumption that Vassilev is named after the state may be correct .
“ We named the dog Indiana.
” were the dismissive words of Sean Connery ’ s Henry Jones Sr in The Last Crusade , as he cast away the new name of his son .
By our book , and Vassilev ’ s , the name is a winner , and it certainly doesn ’ t belong in a museum .

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A crack of the whip, a phobia of snakes, a sly shrug and a quickdraw shot, that hat and those capers. Who else would Aston Villa young-gun Indiana Vassilev be named after - and how does that link back to one of the most famous Star Wars characters of all time?
The high-flying forward fought his way into first-team action when Villa needed him most. Without a first team striker, he was thrown into action after earning his shot. For both Villa and Vassilev, the chance paid off. The forward’s work-ethic showed well and while he needed plenty of direction and encouragement from head coach Dean Smith and the Villa players on the pitch, he succeeded in being the ‘bridge player’ that Villa needed.
A ‘striker’s run’ from him bought space for Jack Grealish to finish against Brighton, and he also came close to nodding home against Watford. From the bench, he was able to give Villa the forward energy and momentum that they needed from a striker, while they were without one.
With a cool head, he slid into Villa’s first-team and didn’t look out of place. Almost like his name sake.
Indiana Vassilev is admittedly a cool name - and one that would raise eyebrows in the digital world, let alone the real one. It’d be barely believable for a Bulgarian-American regenerated youngster in Football Manager to hold the name, let alone a Villa youngster.
Where did that one come from? Well - directly from Lucasarts according to Vassilev himself.
“I was named after Indiana Jones,” said Vassilev speaking to Villa’s club website - a rebuttal of assumptions that he was named after the American state of Indiana.
Being named after one of the most famous characters in the Hollywood canon is likely a little more prestigious than sharing a name with a state - as good as that state may be.
“My mom and dad came from Bulgaria so they didn’t really know which states were in the US, I think there’s a common misconception.
“I was named after Indiana Jones. I’ve seen all the films, (my parents) were huge fans.”
Indiana in itself is an interesting word, and the etymological The name refers to ‘Land of the Indians’ using the Latin suffix ‘-ana’ in a similar fashion to the state of Louisiana.
Vassilev’s no Hoosier though. He was born in Savannah, Georgia. Knowing that, of course he would be named after the character!
But what is the character named after? Indiana Jones’ name is Henry Jones Jr and in the film series he is referred to in many different ways. Henry, Professor Jones, Junior - only when using Sean Connery’s thick accent - Indy, and Indiana. Indiana, is of course, a nickname - taken from the family dog, also called Indiana. In the Young Indiana Jones series, Henry Jones Jr was said to name himself Indiana after the dog - who passed away after saving his life in the story.
It doesn’t stop there though, Indiana the dog, an Alaskan Malamute, was actually named after George Lucas’ own dog - a female dog of the same breed that ALSO inspired Chewbacca. It was so big and fluffy, you see, that one might call it a ‘monster dog’ - and that phrase in Russian - chudovishye sobaka or Chubaka - can be anglicised into your favourite hairy spacetime companion.
It all fits together nicely - and while there’s no exact proof, due to the meaning of ‘Indiana’ we can assume Lucas’ dog is named after the state and that the character is named after the dog. In a longwinded way, the assumption that Vassilev is named after the state may be correct.
“We named the dog Indiana.” were the dismissive words of Sean Connery’s Henry Jones Sr in The Last Crusade, as he cast away the new name of his son. By our book, and Vassilev’s, the name is a winner, and it certainly doesn’t belong in a museum.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Changes promised after another Landau Forte QEMS school head leaves

Landau Forte QEMS ’ new head has vowed to make changes after the latest in a long line of leaders left the school .
Shapinder Minhas only joined last June having said she would “ strive for even greater success for our young people , be it in the academic , cultural , sport or artistic fields ” .
But not even a year later she has now left to be replaced by Sarah Findlay-Cobb , CEO of Landau Forte Charitable Trust , who will be interim principal .
In a letter to parents she said : “ I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more closely with the staff and students and have already begun making a number of changes in response to feedback I have received .
“ The focus on teaching and learning will be strengthened and our staff will be focussing on ensuring that every lesson has a positive impact on students .
“ We are aware of concerns raised regarding intervention sessions and supply teachers and have therefore worked to ensure that teaching staff are allocated appropriately and are able to focus on lesson content without any diversion .
“ For Sixth Form @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that smart business dress is worn but with no restriction on patterns/stripes etc .
I would however ask that all skirts are kept to an appropriate length .
“ We will also be reviewing ways in which Sixth Formers are able to access learning without remaining on site for the full day.
” She added that she would encourage parents to attend soon-to-be-scheduled drop in sessions so “ we can work together to effect rapid change ” .
Addressing the amount of leaders that have left , a spokesperson for Landau Forte Charitable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there have been a number of changes to the school leadership over the years .
`` As a trust we are focused on our students and getting the quality of education right , and we will never compromise on these values .
“ It is vital that every one of our school leaders are united behind our shared vision of providing the best education for every child , and that they actively work to promote a welcoming and positive learning environment .
“ We will be launching a full recruitment process shortly to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Academy QEMS and Tamworth Sixth Form .
In the meantime , and to ensure stability and continuity , Sarah Findlay-Cobb , CEO for the Landau Forte Charitable Trust , will be acting as interim principal .
“ We will not rush to make this appointment and we will take our time to identify the right person for this complex school .
“ Until then , we want to reassure parents and carers that the presence of our CEO as interim principal shows the importance we place upon this role , and our commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ education they deserve .
“ We have sent out more information to parents and carers and will ensure they are kept informed throughout this process .
”

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Landau Forte QEMS’ new head has vowed to make changes after the latest in a long line of leaders left the school.
Shapinder Minhas only joined last June having said she would “strive for even greater success for our young people, be it in the academic, cultural, sport or artistic fields”.
But not even a year later she has now left to be replaced by Sarah Findlay-Cobb, CEO of Landau Forte Charitable Trust, who will be interim principal.
In a letter to parents she said: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work more closely with the staff and students and have already begun making a number of changes in response to feedback I have received.
“The focus on teaching and learning will be strengthened and our staff will be focussing on ensuring that every lesson has a positive impact on students.
(Image: Google)
“We are aware of concerns raised regarding intervention sessions and supply teachers and have therefore worked to ensure that teaching staff are allocated appropriately and are able to focus on lesson content without any diversion.
“For Sixth Form we have relaxed uniform rules to ensure that smart business dress is worn but with no restriction on patterns/stripes etc. I would however ask that all skirts are kept to an appropriate length.
“We will also be reviewing ways in which Sixth Formers are able to access learning without remaining on site for the full day.”
She added that she would encourage parents to attend soon-to-be-scheduled drop in sessions so “we can work together to effect rapid change”.
Addressing the amount of leaders that have left, a spokesperson for Landau Forte Charitable Trust told BirminghamLive: “We acknowledge there have been a number of changes to the school leadership over the years.
"As a trust we are focused on our students and getting the quality of education right, and we will never compromise on these values.
“It is vital that every one of our school leaders are united behind our shared vision of providing the best education for every child, and that they actively work to promote a welcoming and positive learning environment.
“We will be launching a full recruitment process shortly to find a new principal for Landau Forte Academy QEMS and Tamworth Sixth Form. In the meantime, and to ensure stability and continuity, Sarah Findlay-Cobb, CEO for the Landau Forte Charitable Trust, will be acting as interim principal.
“We will not rush to make this appointment and we will take our time to identify the right person for this complex school.
“Until then, we want to reassure parents and carers that the presence of our CEO as interim principal shows the importance we place upon this role, and our commitment to ensuring their children receive the high-quality education they deserve.
“We have sent out more information to parents and carers and will ensure they are kept informed throughout this process.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--What Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said about Jack Grealish to Manchester United transfer

Manchester United have set their sights on Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish ahead of the summer transfer window .
United have been admirers of the Villa captain for several months and want to prise him away from B6 before the start of next season .
With seven goals and five assists in the Premier League , he boasts the best attacking record of any English midfielder in the division .
He is expected to receive his first Three Lions call-up for the friendlies against Italy and Denmark at the end of March .
According to reports in the national press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to £70m for the playmaker as part of a summer of heavy investment .
The 24-year-old stunned United – and their fans – with his man of the match performance in the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in December .
He scored the opening goal , curling a shot into the top corner from just inside the box , and proved a menace to the hosts all afternoon .
After that match , Solskjaer was asked directly about the prospect of a move for Grealish .
He told reporters : `` I ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' players , if they 're Man United calibre or targets .
“ But fantastic goal , I think he hit one of them corners I hit a couple of times .
It was a great finish , but we should defend better , show him down the left .
But what a goal and he played a good game . ''
That came after the United boss had sought out Grealish after the final whistle .
Once the pair were away from the glare of the TV cameras Solskjaer congratulated the Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` You were the best player on the pitch today . ''

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Manchester United have set their sights on Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish ahead of the summer transfer window.
United have been admirers of the Villa captain for several months and want to prise him away from B6 before the start of next season.
With seven goals and five assists in the Premier League, he boasts the best attacking record of any English midfielder in the division.
He is expected to receive his first Three Lions call-up for the friendlies against Italy and Denmark at the end of March.
According to reports in the national press, United are willing to pay up to £70m for the playmaker as part of a summer of heavy investment.
The 24-year-old stunned United – and their fans – with his man of the match performance in the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in December.
He scored the opening goal, curling a shot into the top corner from just inside the box, and proved a menace to the hosts all afternoon.
After that match, Solskjaer was asked directly about the prospect of a move for Grealish.
He told reporters: "I can't talk too much about other teams' players, if they're Man United calibre or targets.
“But fantastic goal, I think he hit one of them corners I hit a couple of times. It was a great finish, but we should defend better, show him down the left. But what a goal and he played a good game."
That came after the United boss had sought out Grealish after the final whistle.
Once the pair were away from the glare of the TV cameras Solskjaer congratulated the Villa talisman on his star showing, saying: "You were the best player on the pitch today."


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Drug gang behind £600,000 cocaine plot jailed

Four men who flooded towns in the North West with cocaine peddled from the Midlands have been jailed .
The quartet were jailed for 50 years between them .
They were imprisoned after being sentenced following the seizure of a £600,000 haul of cocaine .
Police seized the class A drugs following an investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit .
LancsLive , our sister title , reported more than 20kg of high purity cocaine , with a wholesale value of more than £600,000 , was seized .
Yasser Shah , 31 , ran an organised crime group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West area .
The gang was involved in running a drugs operation that saw large quantities of cocaine moved from the Midlands to throughout the north of England between March 2018 and May 2019 .
On December 13 , 2018 , Bilal Ashraf , 30 , was stopped by police on his way back from Coventry and was arrested in possession of 10kg kilograms of cocaine .
Then on February 28 , 2019 , Hassam Rasool , 26 , was stopped by police on his way back from Telford and arrested in possession @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Martin Lewis , 54 .
Finally , in May 2019 , Gul Bahar , 38 , and a second man who was later cleared were arrested in a Tesco car park in Halifax after a police search of their vehicle resulted in the seizure of 1kg of cocaine .
Four men were sentenced to prison for a combined total of 50 years on Tuesday , February 11 .
Shah pleaded guilty at trial and was sentenced to 17 years in prison .
Ashraf pleaded guilty at trial and was sentenced to 13 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at trial and was sentenced 11 years in prison .
Lewis pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nine years in prison .
Det Insp Scott Waddington said : `` Drug dealing causes significant harm in our communities .
`` It ’ s one of our biggest priorities and our teams are working tirelessly , alongside other law enforcement agencies , to target those involved in the illegal drugs trade , and bring them before the courts .
`` This is a great result , and our streets are that bit safer with these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bahar was convicted and will appear in court for sentencing at a later date .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tom Earnshaw, James Rodger)

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Four men who flooded towns in the North West with cocaine peddled from the Midlands have been jailed.
The quartet were jailed for 50 years between them.
They were imprisoned after being sentenced following the seizure of a £600,000 haul of cocaine.
Police seized the class A drugs following an investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit.
LancsLive, our sister title, reported more than 20kg of high purity cocaine, with a wholesale value of more than £600,000, was seized
To keep up-to-date with the latest news from Birmingham Courts, join our Facebook group here
Yasser Shah, 31, ran an organised crime group based in and out of the North West area.
The gang was involved in running a drugs operation that saw large quantities of cocaine moved from the Midlands to throughout the north of England between March 2018 and May 2019.
On December 13, 2018, Bilal Ashraf, 30, was stopped by police on his way back from Coventry and was arrested in possession of 10kg kilograms of cocaine.
Then on February 28, 2019, Hassam Rasool, 26, was stopped by police on his way back from Telford and arrested in possession of 10kg of cocaine he had collected from Martin Lewis, 54.
Finally, in May 2019, Gul Bahar, 38, and a second man who was later cleared were arrested in a Tesco car park in Halifax after a police search of their vehicle resulted in the seizure of 1kg of cocaine.
Four men were sentenced to prison for a combined total of 50 years on Tuesday, February 11.
Shah pleaded guilty at trial and was sentenced to 17 years in prison. Ashraf pleaded guilty at trial and was sentenced to 13 years in prison.
Rasool pleaded guilty at trial and was sentenced 11 years in prison. Lewis pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nine years in prison.
Det Insp Scott Waddington said: "Drug dealing causes significant harm in our communities.
"It’s one of our biggest priorities and our teams are working tirelessly, alongside other law enforcement agencies, to target those involved in the illegal drugs trade, and bring them before the courts.
"This is a great result, and our streets are that bit safer with these drugs dealers off the streets."
Bahar was convicted and will appear in court for sentencing at a later date.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Woman's incredible way to make KFC Popcorn Chicken pizza for just £4 - saving £14

Pizza Hut and KFC 's pizza featuring popcorn chicken and a gravy base has sold out across the UK .
Pizza Hut Delivery and KFC teased fans with the collaboration last year and after calls from the nation to make their pizza dreams come true , the creation is coming for two weeks only .
It will be available online via Pizza Hut Delivery ( not in restaurants ) from February 3 - 16 and is included as an option in all large pizza deals .
But priced at £18 , many did feel it was too expensive for just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared how she has managed to create her own version of the pizza for £4 , meaning a saving of £14 .
Speaking to the MEN , Samantha Eborn said : `` Me and my boyfriend saw that Pizza Hut were bringing out this new KFC pizza and we both really wanted to try it but refused to pay £18 for just a pizza .
`` We have fakeaways regularly and I 'm a keen home cook and thought I could probably knock something up that was pretty similar for a lot less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving and it was absolutely delicious if I do say so myself . ''
All the ingredients were bought from Lidl and B & M and include chicken nuggets and even gravy .
Here 's what ingredients Samantha used and how she did it .
• 1 bag of value chicken nuggets ( £1.19 for a bag of 22 - Lidl ) • Mix the water , oil , sugar and yeast in a large bowl and leave for about 10 minutes .
Add flour and salt , bring to a dough and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smooth .
Leave to rest for 1 hour .
• Make one portion of gravy as per the instructions on the box and leave to cool .
• Cook one bag of breaded chicken nuggets and chop into quarters .
• Once the dough has proved , roll it out and put it in a baking tin .
You can make a stuffed crust using cheese strings around the edge with the dough folded over the top .
• Bake in a preheated oven at gas mark 8 for 15 minutes without toppings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Then add cooled gravy , half the cheese , the nuggets , and top with the rest of the cheese .
Put it back in the oven until the cheese is golden , slice and enjoy .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Rachel Pugh, James Rodger)

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Pizza Hut and KFC's pizza featuring popcorn chicken and a gravy base has sold out across the UK.
Pizza Hut Delivery and KFC teased fans with the collaboration last year and after calls from the nation to make their pizza dreams come true, the creation is coming for two weeks only.
It will be available online via Pizza Hut Delivery (not in restaurants) from February 3 - 16 and is included as an option in all large pizza deals.
But priced at £18, many did feel it was too expensive for just one pizza.
One shopper has now shared how she has managed to create her own version of the pizza for £4, meaning a saving of £14.
(Image: Pizza Hut/KFC)
Speaking to the MEN, Samantha Eborn said: "Me and my boyfriend saw that Pizza Hut were bringing out this new KFC pizza and we both really wanted to try it but refused to pay £18 for just a pizza.
"We have fakeaways regularly and I'm a keen home cook and thought I could probably knock something up that was pretty similar for a lot less. And we did.
"Massive saving and it was absolutely delicious if I do say so myself."
All the ingredients were bought from Lidl and B&M and include chicken nuggets and even gravy.
Here's what ingredients Samantha used and how she did it.
Ingredients
400g strong white bread flour (Lidl - 55p)
225ml warm water
1 sachet dried yeast (Lidl - 44p)
1 tsp sugar (Lidl - 65p)
1 tsp salt (Lidl - 18p)
2 tbsp oil (£2.59 for 1L - Lidl)
1 bag of value chicken nuggets (£1.19 for a bag of 22 - Lidl)
Mild cheddar (£2.49 a bag - Lidl)
Mayflower Southern Style Gravy (£1 - B&M)
Directions


birminghammail--2020-02-12--"Unpredictable" new drugs are putting more Solihull young people in hospital

The increasing risk posed by a new generation of psychoactive drugs is said to be fuelling the number of Solihull young people being admitted to A & E for alcohol and substance abuse .
A rise in the number of younger patients ending up in casualty wards was highlighted as one of the key concerns in a recent report on the borough 's drug and alcohol services .
The latest data , for the period running from 2015-16 to 2017-18 , revealed in Solihull there were 62 admissions of 15 to 24-year-olds for substance misuse .
This was exactly double @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2008-09 to 2010-11 , with the local picture - at one time healthier than the UK-wide situation - now broadly the same .
Hope UK , a national drugs charity , warned a range of illegal substances were now readily accessible .
`` Young people can now , easily , buy drugs from SnapChat , and their effects are widely glamorised across social media and in popular music , '' said a spokesman .
`` New Psychoactive Substances ( NPS ) , formerly known as ‘ legal highs ’ , are becomingly increasingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` NPSs change on a daily basis and are therefore difficult to identify , and their effects are unpredictable .
This has led to young people having very serious reactions to them .
`` Added to this , more traditional drugs are being manipulated to increase their physiological effects .
Cannabis , as an example , is now three times ‘ stronger ’ than in 1995 . ''
The charity has said that education was key to combating the rise in hospital admissions , with a `` sophisticated and mature approach '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully rounded approach to drug education in schools and youth clubs is the key to reversing current trends in drug-related hospital admissions . ''
Cllr Rosemary Sexton ( Green , Shirley West ) said : `` We know that substance abuse and alcohol related issues are closely related to mental health problems .
`` Tragically , we 're seeing an epidemic of mental health problems in our young people , and the care that 's being provided by our under resourced health services is just not adequate to meet the need .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in problems elsewhere - and this is just one example . ''
Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals that have been developed to act like the main psychoactive chemical in cannabis , tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC ) which acts on cannabis receptors in the brain .
Since synthetic cannabinoids , like Black Mamba , act like cannabis and the effects - good and bad - are similar to cannabis .
Some users will feel happy and relaxed , may get the giggles , feel hunger pangs and become very talkative .
Others mainly feel ill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more strongly with the brain 's cannabis receptors so they 're more potent than natural cannabis .
This means it 's easier to use too much and experience unpleasant and harmful effects .
Synthetic annabinoids are usually sold in 'herbal ' smoking mixtures .
Sometimes these smoking mixtures have been found not to contain any synthetic cannabinoids at all .
There are lots of different types of synthetic cannabinoids .
Some were previously illegal and some weren ’ t , but since 26 May 2016 when the Psychoactive Substances Act came into effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to produce , supply or import for human consumption .
Council officer Kate Woolley said that alcohol and cannabis were often the drugs of choice for young people , due in large part to their availability .
But the increasing popularity of new types of substances , which often have `` extremely unpredictable '' effects , has also been a cause for concern .
`` The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs ( the government ’ s independent statutory drug advisors ) advise that the short‐term harms of NPS can include paranoia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long‐term harms are often unknown , '' said Ms Woolley .

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The increasing risk posed by a new generation of psychoactive drugs is said to be fuelling the number of Solihull young people being admitted to A&E for alcohol and substance abuse.
A rise in the number of younger patients ending up in casualty wards was highlighted as one of the key concerns in a recent report on the borough's drug and alcohol services.
The latest data, for the period running from 2015-16 to 2017-18, revealed in Solihull there were 62 admissions of 15 to 24-year-olds for substance misuse.
This was exactly double the 31 cases which were recorded in 2008-09 to 2010-11, with the local picture - at one time healthier than the UK-wide situation - now broadly the same.
Hope UK, a national drugs charity, warned a range of illegal substances were now readily accessible.
"Young people can now, easily, buy drugs from SnapChat, and their effects are widely glamorised across social media and in popular music," said a spokesman.
"New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), formerly known as ‘legal highs’, are becomingly increasingly popular for a ‘cheap high’.
"NPSs change on a daily basis and are therefore difficult to identify, and their effects are unpredictable. This has led to young people having very serious reactions to them.
"Added to this, more traditional drugs are being manipulated to increase their physiological effects. Cannabis, as an example, is now three times ‘stronger’ than in 1995."
The charity has said that education was key to combating the rise in hospital admissions, with a "sophisticated and mature approach" to the issue needed.
"A fully rounded approach to drug education in schools and youth clubs is the key to reversing current trends in drug-related hospital admissions."
Cllr Rosemary Sexton (Green, Shirley West) said: "We know that substance abuse and alcohol related issues are closely related to mental health problems.
"Tragically, we're seeing an epidemic of mental health problems in our young people, and the care that's being provided by our under resourced health services is just not adequate to meet the need.
"The consequence of this is a massive increase in problems elsewhere - and this is just one example."
What is Black Mamba, AKA synthetic cannabinoids? Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals that have been developed to act like the main psychoactive chemical in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which acts on cannabis receptors in the brain. Since synthetic cannabinoids, like Black Mamba, act like cannabis and the effects - good and bad - are similar to cannabis. Some users will feel happy and relaxed, may get the giggles, feel hunger pangs and become very talkative. Others mainly feel ill or paranoid. Because synthetic cannabinoids react more strongly with the brain's cannabis receptors so they're more potent than natural cannabis. This means it's easier to use too much and experience unpleasant and harmful effects. Synthetic annabinoids are usually sold in 'herbal' smoking mixtures. Sometimes these smoking mixtures have been found not to contain any synthetic cannabinoids at all. There are lots of different types of synthetic cannabinoids. Some were previously illegal and some weren’t, but since 26 May 2016 when the Psychoactive Substances Act came into effect, none of these drugs are legal to produce, supply or import for human consumption. Source: Talk to FRANK
Council officer Kate Woolley said that alcohol and cannabis were often the drugs of choice for young people, due in large part to their availability.
But the increasing popularity of new types of substances, which often have "extremely unpredictable" effects, has also been a cause for concern.
"The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (the government’s independent statutory drug advisors) advise that the short‐term harms of NPS can include paranoia, psychosis and seizures and that their long‐term harms are often unknown," said Ms Woolley.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--British Airways launch Cornwall flights from London Heathrow after Flybe scraps route

British Airways is launching flights to Cornwall after troubled Flybe scrapped the service .
Five return flights per week will be operated by the national flag carrier between Heathrow and Newquay this summer .
Shortly after being saved from collapse by striking a deal with the Government last month , Flybe revealed its taxpayer-subsidised flights between London and Newquay will switch from Heathrow to Gatwick on March 29 .
Willie Walsh , outgoing boss of British Airways ' parent-company IAG , described the rescue as a `` blatant misuse of public funds '' .
Richard Thomasson , interim airport director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We are delighted British Airways will be flying to Cornwall this summer and to be able to continue to offer this vital link between Cornwall and Heathrow .
`` With such a major global carrier we will be able to offer our passengers one-stop access to the world , while worldwide investors and tourists will benefit from an easier connection to our stunning county . ''
British Airways ' director of network and alliances Neil Chernoff said : `` We know that customers enjoy exploring the UK as much as they do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much to offer , especially in the summer months . ''
Flights will operate on Mondays , Thursday , Fridays , Saturdays and Sundays from July 2 until September 7 .
Return fares start from £90 .
British Airways began offsetting the carbon emissions of its domestic routes on January 1 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Neil Lancefield, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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British Airways is launching flights to Cornwall after troubled Flybe scrapped the service.
Five return flights per week will be operated by the national flag carrier between Heathrow and Newquay this summer.
Shortly after being saved from collapse by striking a deal with the Government last month, Flybe revealed its taxpayer-subsidised flights between London and Newquay will switch from Heathrow to Gatwick on March 29.
Willie Walsh, outgoing boss of British Airways' parent-company IAG, described the rescue as a "blatant misuse of public funds".
Richard Thomasson, interim airport director of Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: "We are delighted British Airways will be flying to Cornwall this summer and to be able to continue to offer this vital link between Cornwall and Heathrow.
"With such a major global carrier we will be able to offer our passengers one-stop access to the world, while worldwide investors and tourists will benefit from an easier connection to our stunning county."
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British Airways' director of network and alliances Neil Chernoff said: "We know that customers enjoy exploring the UK as much as they do going further afield, and Newquay has so much to offer, especially in the summer months."
Flights will operate on Mondays, Thursday, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from July 2 until September 7. Return fares start from £90.
British Airways began offsetting the carbon emissions of its domestic routes on January 1.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Wolverhampton honeymooner tests negative for coronavirus after quarantine on cruise ship

A British honeymooner diagnosed with coronavirus says he has now tested negative for the disease - after being removed from a quarantined cruise ship where there are now 169 confirmed cases .
Alan Steele , from Wolverhampton , was moved to hospital last Friday from the Diamond Princess cruise ship stationed off the coast of Japan after being diagnosed with the Covid-19 virus .
But on Wednesday he said he hopes to soon be released from quarantine if a second test for the virus also proves negative .
`` Just received great news ... my test showed negative to virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test if that comes back negative I get released , '' Mr Steele posted on Facebook .
There have been 169 confirmed cases of the coronavirus strain , now officially named Covid-19 by the World Health Organisation , among the Diamond Princess ' 3,711 passengers and crew .
Mr Steele 's wife , Wendy Marshall Steele , is still on board .
Mr Steele 's announcement comes after Steve Walsh , the businessman at the centre of a UK outbreak of coronavirus , thanked the NHS for his treatment and said he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 53 , from Hove in East Sussex , is still in quarantine at St Thomas ' Hospital in London .
He picked up Covid-19 while at a conference in Singapore and through him several other cases in France , Spain and the UK were diagnosed .
British couple David and Sally Abel told Sky News on Wednesday that life on the cruise ship , quarantined by the port of Yokohama , is becoming more challenging .
The couple , who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary , said passengers had been kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crying in her cabin .
Mrs Abel added : `` They are looking after us very well but obviously we are confined to our cabin and it 's getting harder .
`` We are now into the second week , it seems an eternity to go . ''
Mr Abel said : `` It is more challenging , as each day progresses we are having additional people testing positive .
`` Passengers are now getting tested , that 's why we are seeing the results now on a daily basis , so it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` One of the passengers in the night was keeping other passengers awake , an old lady who was crying for a couple of hours in her cabin .
`` Life is n't as easy as it was last week - it 's a bit more challenging . ''
But the couple said that if they test negative for the virus , they could be taken off the ship within days .
Mr Abel added : `` We still have not been updated on February 19 - that 's the disembarkation date .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we understand , for people who have not got the symptoms , who have gone through the testing with all the doctors who are on board , and we are seeing people leave the ship - it has been happening all day long .
`` I think we will have a quicker disembarkation , if we are cleared the correct medical way it could be brought forward as soon as another couple of days . ''
But Mrs Abel said the couple fear being separated if one of them tests positive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ frightened of is if one of us is positive and the other negative and we are split up .
`` That 's what we do n't want to happen , but if it does it does - what can we do ? ''

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A British honeymooner diagnosed with coronavirus says he has now tested negative for the disease - after being removed from a quarantined cruise ship where there are now 169 confirmed cases.
Alan Steele, from Wolverhampton, was moved to hospital last Friday from the Diamond Princess cruise ship stationed off the coast of Japan after being diagnosed with the Covid-19 virus.
But on Wednesday he said he hopes to soon be released from quarantine if a second test for the virus also proves negative.
"Just received great news... my test showed negative to virus and have now been swabbed for 2nd test if that comes back negative I get released," Mr Steele posted on Facebook.
There have been 169 confirmed cases of the coronavirus strain, now officially named Covid-19 by the World Health Organisation, among the Diamond Princess' 3,711 passengers and crew.
Mr Steele's wife, Wendy Marshall Steele, is still on board.
Mr Steele's announcement comes after Steve Walsh, the businessman at the centre of a UK outbreak of coronavirus, thanked the NHS for his treatment and said he is "fully recovered".
Mr Walsh, 53, from Hove in East Sussex, is still in quarantine at St Thomas' Hospital in London. He picked up Covid-19 while at a conference in Singapore and through him several other cases in France, Spain and the UK were diagnosed.
British couple David and Sally Abel told Sky News on Wednesday that life on the cruise ship, quarantined by the port of Yokohama, is becoming more challenging.
The couple, who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, said passengers had been kept awake one night due to a woman crying in her cabin.
(Image: Facebook)
Mrs Abel added: "They are looking after us very well but obviously we are confined to our cabin and it's getting harder.
"We are now into the second week, it seems an eternity to go."
Mr Abel said: "It is more challenging, as each day progresses we are having additional people testing positive.
"Passengers are now getting tested, that's why we are seeing the results now on a daily basis, so it is getting people's moods down.
"One of the passengers in the night was keeping other passengers awake, an old lady who was crying for a couple of hours in her cabin.
"Life isn't as easy as it was last week - it's a bit more challenging."
But the couple said that if they test negative for the virus, they could be taken off the ship within days.
Mr Abel added: "We still have not been updated on February 19 - that's the disembarkation date.
"But it's being brought forward, we understand, for people who have not got the symptoms, who have gone through the testing with all the doctors who are on board, and we are seeing people leave the ship - it has been happening all day long.
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"I think we will have a quicker disembarkation, if we are cleared the correct medical way it could be brought forward as soon as another couple of days."
But Mrs Abel said the couple fear being separated if one of them tests positive.
She added: "What we are frightened of is if one of us is positive and the other negative and we are split up.
"That's what we don't want to happen, but if it does it does - what can we do?"


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Best European festivals in 2020 easy to fly from Birmingham Airport

There ’ s no better way to combat the winter blues than by filling your calender with a fun festival to look forward to .
But despite the UK festival scene having loads of great options , it can be a gamble .
You never know whether you might get a blistering heatwave or a torrential wash out .
So if you want to keep your wellies in the loft this year , maybe consider trying a European festival in 2020 .
Here ’ s our top five picks easily accessible from Birmingham Airport .
The original alpine music festival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last 21 years .
Set in the chocolate box town of Mayrhofen , ski by day enjoying cable car karaoke , mountain top brunches and DJs on the slopes and even skiing with Olympic legend Eddie the Eagle .
By night party in the forest , rave in an igloo , or join the world famous street party .
Line up : The Streets , Liam Gallagher , Foals , Chase & Status , Ash , The Libertines , Rudimental Fly : Direct to Innsbruck or Munich from Birmingham Airport This festival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has become one of the Europe ’ s fastest growing music events .
Mad Cool is heading into its fifth year and is boasting one of the biggest summer lineups for 2020 .
As it ’ s in the capital , it ’ s easy to get to the festival which has a huge rock , indie and pop offering .
Tomorrowland brings an A-list lineup of names from the dance genres to Boom in Belgium covering EDM , house , techno and hardstyle .
Tickets for this usually sell-out instantly as its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with this year 's lineup coming soon , but their winter lineup taking place in March should give you an idea of what to expect with Armin van Buuren , Steve Aoki , Afrojack , Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Martin Garrix on the bill .
If you want to get the first news on tickets then you can pre-register now .
Love International is a heady mix of wild boat parties , lazy sun-kissed days , beautiful dawns breaking over Barbarella ’ s , slow-simmering Sunrise Sessions by the water ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party to conclude the adventure .
It remains a unique mix of a holiday and festival as one nestled on the Dalmatian coastline , an intimate pine-shaded hideaway like no other .
Guests can stay in village apartments , hostels or try glamping in onsite yurts .
One of the most popular European festivals is Spain 's Benicàssim which launched in 1995 and now sees more than 150,000 guests across the weekend .
Just south of Barcelona , festival goers can chill on the beach in the day catching some rays , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoying the live acts into the early hours .
Previous headliners have included Arctic Monkeys , Vampire Weekend , Florence and the Machine , Arcade Fire and New Order .
This year sees Foals , Khalid , The Libertines and Basement Jaxx top the bill .
Lineup : Foals , Khalid , Liam Gallagher , Vampire Weekend , The Libertines , Martin Garrix , The Lumineers , Basement Jaxx , Example Fly : Direct to Reus , Barcelona or Madrid from Birmingham Airport

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There’s no better way to combat the winter blues than by filling your calender with a fun festival to look forward to.
But despite the UK festival scene having loads of great options, it can be a gamble.
You never know whether you might get a blistering heatwave or a torrential wash out.
So if you want to keep your wellies in the loft this year, maybe consider trying a European festival in 2020.
There’s already been
Here’s our top five picks easily accessible from Birmingham Airport.
Snowbombing
The original alpine music festival, it has been going strong for the last 21 years.
Set in the chocolate box town of Mayrhofen, ski by day enjoying cable car karaoke, mountain top brunches and DJs on the slopes and even skiing with Olympic legend Eddie the Eagle.
By night party in the forest, rave in an igloo, or join the world famous street party.
When : April 13 - 18
Where : Mayhofen, Austria
Line up : The Streets, Liam Gallagher, Foals, Chase & Status, Ash, The Libertines, Rudimental
Tickets : www.snowbombing.com
Fly : Direct to Innsbruck or Munich from Birmingham Airport
Mad Cool
This festival takes place in the Spanish capital and has become one of the Europe’s fastest growing music events.
Mad Cool is heading into its fifth year and is boasting one of the biggest summer lineups for 2020.
As it’s in the capital, it’s easy to get to the festival which has a huge rock, indie and pop offering.
When: July 8-11
Where: Madrid, Spain
Lineup: Taylor Swift, Kings of Leon, The Killers, Billie Eilish, London Grammar, Diplo, Wolf Alice
Tickets: Mad cool tickets
Fly: Direct to Madrid from Birmingham Airport
Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland brings an A-list lineup of names from the dance genres to Boom in Belgium covering EDM, house, techno and hardstyle.
Tickets for this usually sell-out instantly as its considered a mecca for dance music fans with this year's lineup coming soon, but their winter lineup taking place in March should give you an idea of what to expect with Armin van Buuren, Steve Aoki, Afrojack, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Martin Garrix on the bill.
If you want to get the first news on tickets then you can pre-register now.
When: July 17-19, July 24-26
Where: Boom, Belgium
Lineup: TBA
Tickets: Tomorrowland website
Fly: Direct to Brussels from Birmingham Airport
Love International
(Image: pr handout)
Love International is a heady mix of wild boat parties, lazy sun-kissed days, beautiful dawns breaking over Barbarella’s, slow-simmering Sunrise Sessions by the water’s edge and the exclusive Secret Island party to conclude the adventure.
It remains a unique mix of a holiday and festival as one nestled on the Dalmatian coastline, an intimate pine-shaded hideaway like no other.
Guests can stay in village apartments, hostels or try glamping in onsite yurts.
When: July 15-21
Where: Tisno, Croatia
Lineup: Khruangbin , Horse Meat Disco, Ross From Friends (DJ set), Heidi Lawden, Craig Richards
Tickets: Love international
Fly: Direct to Split from Birmingham Airport
Benicàssim
One of the most popular European festivals is Spain's Benicàssim which launched in 1995 and now sees more than 150,000 guests across the weekend.
Just south of Barcelona, festival goers can chill on the beach in the day catching some rays, then go and get loud in the evening enjoying the live acts into the early hours.
Previous headliners have included Arctic Monkeys, Vampire Weekend, Florence and the Machine, Arcade Fire and New Order.
This year sees Foals, Khalid, The Libertines and Basement Jaxx top the bill.
When: July 16-19
Where: Benicàssim, Costa del Azahar, Spain
Lineup: Foals , Khalid , Liam Gallagher, Vampire Weekend, The Libertines, Martin Garrix, The Lumineers, Basement Jaxx, Example
Tickets: Benicassim tickets
Fly: Direct to Reus, Barcelona or Madrid from Birmingham Airport