birminghammail--2020-05-13--Villa's Eni Aluko apologises after slamming furloughed workers

Aston Villa women 's sporting director Eni Aluko has issued an apology after suggesting furloughed workers are enjoying a culture of `` do-nothing entitlement '' .
The 33-year-old , who joined Villa in January , took to Twitter last night to criticise the government scheme which has been extended until October .
In a tweet which has since been deleted , Aluko said : `` As expected , the same people baffled about what returning to work means are crystal clear and tweeting with joy about the extension of furlough to October .
`` Furlough is needed but has perpetuated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The former England player received a backlash of abuse for her remarks .
One Villa fan posted : `` Eni Aluko , our women 's sporting director , has embarrassed herself and the club again with a series of ludicrously ill informed tweets this evening .
`` People are n't on furlough because they are lazy , they are on it because staying home saves lives and helps us beat the virus . ''
Another put : `` Wow .
Absolutely wow .
Just seen Eni Aluko ’ s tweets .
Do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that someone I looked up to thinks that I ’ m lazy because I ’ m furloughed or apprehensive about going back to work if it ’ s not safe .
I worked my ass off to get where I am today ! ''
Aluko , who helped the Lionesses to third place at the 2015 Women 's World Cup , has since issued a public apology .
Her statement read : `` Opening up my tweets this morning to say sorry for any offence caused by any of my tweets on furlough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seem to have upset people the most have been deleted .
I have no interest in being a source of further public upset . ''
She added : `` No generalisations or widespread offence was intended .
Just a personal opinion on the future economy in this crisis .
This account will now be private and views , as always , remain my own . ''
BBC Sport has reported how players and staff at several clubs in the Women 's Championship , which Aluko 's Villa are leading , have been furloughed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the workforce , some 7.5 million people , are now covered by furlough , which has cost £14bn a month .
The scheme , now extended until October , sees employees receive 80 per cent of their monthly wages up to £2,500 .

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Aston Villa women's sporting director Eni Aluko has issued an apology after suggesting furloughed workers are enjoying a culture of "do-nothing entitlement".
The 33-year-old, who joined Villa in January, took to Twitter last night to criticise the government scheme which has been extended until October.
In a tweet which has since been deleted, Aluko said: "As expected, the same people baffled about what returning to work means are crystal clear and tweeting with joy about the extension of furlough to October.
"Furlough is needed but has perpetuated a culture of do-nothing entitlement."
The former England player received a backlash of abuse for her remarks.
One Villa fan posted: "Eni Aluko, our women's sporting director, has embarrassed herself and the club again with a series of ludicrously ill informed tweets this evening.
"People aren't on furlough because they are lazy, they are on it because staying home saves lives and helps us beat the virus."
Another put: "Wow. Absolutely wow. Just seen Eni Aluko’s tweets. Do you know what? It’s horrifying that someone I looked up to thinks that I’m lazy because I’m furloughed or apprehensive about going back to work if it’s not safe. I worked my ass off to get where I am today!"
Aluko, who helped the Lionesses to third place at the 2015 Women's World Cup, has since issued a public apology.
Her statement read: "Opening up my tweets this morning to say sorry for any offence caused by any of my tweets on furlough last night.
"The tweets that seem to have upset people the most have been deleted. I have no interest in being a source of further public upset."
She added: "No generalisations or widespread offence was intended. Just a personal opinion on the future economy in this crisis. This account will now be private and views, as always, remain my own."
BBC Sport has reported how players and staff at several clubs in the Women's Championship, which Aluko's Villa are leading, have been furloughed during the coronavirus outbreak.
A quarter of the workforce, some 7.5 million people, are now covered by furlough, which has cost £14bn a month.
The scheme, now extended until October, sees employees receive 80 per cent of their monthly wages up to £2,500.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Tamworth's MP: 'Now is not the time to end lockdown'

Tamworth 's MP Christopher Pincher has said that now is “ not the time to end lockdown ” .
Careful steps have been introduced to phase some return to normality but Mr Pincher has warned people “ must still hold firm in our resolve ” .
He said : “ It is thanks to the sacrifice and resilience of local people that we have succeeded in slowing the spread of coronavirus .
The death rate and hospital admissions are coming down , and we have protected the NHS and saved many thousands of lives .
“ All of us here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold firm in our resolve – or else there is a very real risk of a second peak of the disease that could overwhelm the NHS and throw away all of our achievements to date .
“ The Prime Minister has consulted across the political spectrum and as the Prime Minister for the whole United Kingdom , he has engaged with communities across England , Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales .
Though different parts of the country are experiencing the pandemic at different rates , and it is right to be flexible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong spirit to defeat the coronavirus together .
“ We have been clear from the beginning that our five tests must be met .
And since our priority is to protect the public and save lives , we can not move forward unless we satisfy the five tests .
“ To chart our progress and to avoid going back to square one , we have established a new Covid Alert System .
That Covid Alert Level will be determined primarily by R and the number of coronavirus cases .
It will tell us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our social distancing measures .
There will be five alert levels – the lower the level , the fewer the measures .
“ This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week .
Instead , we are taking the first careful steps to modify our measures .
These are the steps the Prime Minister has laid out : Step One from Wednesday , May 13 : Social distancing measures continue , work from home if you can , some industries , such as construction and engineering , are encouraged to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , avoid public transport where possible , take unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise , drive to do exercise if you want , play sports but only with your household .
Step Two from June 1 at the earliest : Phased reopening of shops , schools could begin a phased reopening .
The process will begin with Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 .
Secondary school pupils with exams next year may get some time with teachers before the summer holidays .
Step Three from July 1 at the earliest : Reopening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopening of further public places.
” He added : “ We are over the peak of the virus but coming down the mountain can be even more dangerous .
We have the road map laid out ahead of us , the plan that charts the path out of lockdown and re-opens our economy .
“ In Tamworth we all want to return to a degree of normality , to see our friends and loves ones again , but only by following the medical and scientific advice can we achieve that .
”

Tamworth's MP Christopher Pincher has said that now is “not the time to end lockdown”.
Careful steps have been introduced to phase some return to normality but Mr Pincher has warned people “must still hold firm in our resolve”.
He said: “It is thanks to the sacrifice and resilience of local people that we have succeeded in slowing the spread of coronavirus. The death rate and hospital admissions are coming down, and we have protected the NHS and saved many thousands of lives.
“All of us here in Tamworth and in our villages must hold firm in our resolve – or else there is a very real risk of a second peak of the disease that could overwhelm the NHS and throw away all of our achievements to date.
“The Prime Minister has consulted across the political spectrum and as the Prime Minister for the whole United Kingdom, he has engaged with communities across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Though different parts of the country are experiencing the pandemic at different rates, and it is right to be flexible in the response, there is a strong spirit to defeat the coronavirus together.
“We have been clear from the beginning that our five tests must be met. And since our priority is to protect the public and save lives, we cannot move forward unless we satisfy the five tests.
“To chart our progress and to avoid going back to square one, we have established a new Covid Alert System. That Covid Alert Level will be determined primarily by R and the number of coronavirus cases. It will tell us how tough we have to be in our social distancing measures. There will be five alert levels – the lower the level, the fewer the measures.
“This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week. Instead, we are taking the first careful steps to modify our measures. These are the steps the Prime Minister has laid out:
Step One from Wednesday, May 13: Social distancing measures continue, work from home if you can, some industries, such as construction and engineering, are encouraged to return to work if safety measures in place, avoid public transport where possible, take unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise, drive to do exercise if you want, play sports but only with your household.
Step Two from June 1 at the earliest: Phased reopening of shops, schools could begin a phased reopening. The process will begin with Reception, Year 1 and Year 6. Secondary school pupils with exams next year may get some time with teachers before the summer holidays.
Step Three from July 1 at the earliest: Reopening of some of the hospitality industry, reopening of further public places.”
He added: “We are over the peak of the virus but coming down the mountain can be even more dangerous. We have the road map laid out ahead of us, the plan that charts the path out of lockdown and re-opens our economy.
“In Tamworth we all want to return to a degree of normality, to see our friends and loves ones again, but only by following the medical and scientific advice can we achieve that.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Lotto results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Wednesday

Tonight 's winning National Lottery numbers have been revealed - and the draw means you could be winning BIG .
Camelot , the operator of the National Lottery , conducted the Lotto and Thunderball draws this evening .
Birmingham residents looking for a life-changing sum of money can also play the EuroMillions , with draws twice a week taking place on Tuesday evenings and Friday nights .
The main UK Lotto draw will take place at 8pm .
There will also be the Thunderball draw at 8.15pm where could win £500,000 .
To play , you simply select five numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lucky Star numbers from 1-12 .
If you really can ’ t choose and you ’ re finding the pressure too much , you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you .
Lotto draws take place on Wednesday and Saturday evenings from approximately 8.30pm .
Ticket sales for both Tuesday and Friday EuroMillions draws close at 7.30pm on the evening of the draw .
If you ’ ve missed out , you can buy your ticket for the next draw almost straight away - @ @ @ @ @

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Tonight's winning National Lottery numbers have been revealed - and the draw means you could be winning BIG.
Camelot, the operator of the National Lottery, conducted the Lotto and Thunderball draws this evening.
Birmingham residents looking for a life-changing sum of money can also play the EuroMillions, with draws twice a week taking place on Tuesday evenings and Friday nights.
The main UK Lotto draw will take place at 8pm. There will also be the Thunderball draw at 8.15pm where could win £500,000.
Lottery Tickets cost £2 per line, and include a raffle Millionaire Maker entry code. Thunderball Tickets cost £1.
To play, you simply select five numbers between 1 and 50, plus two Lucky Star numbers from 1-12.
If you really can’t choose and you’re finding the pressure too much, you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you.
Lotto draws take place on Wednesday and Saturday evenings from approximately 8.30pm.
EuroMillions draws happen on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Ticket sales for both Tuesday and Friday EuroMillions draws close at 7.30pm on the evening of the draw.
If you’ve missed out, you can buy your ticket for the next draw almost straight away - sales re-open at 9pm.
Tonight's National Lottery Lotto winning numbers are: 14, 16, 19, 31, 38, 47
The bonus ball is 20
Tonight's estimated jackpot is £8.5 million
Tonight's National Lottery Thunderball winning numbers are: 13, 18, 29, 31, 37
The Thunderball is 01


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Grealish gives update to Man Utd over proposed transfer - reports

The midfielder has enjoyed a brilliant season in the Premier League , scoring seven goals and providing six assists to spearhead Villa 's battle for survival .
He also captained his boyhood club to the Carabao Cup final , scoring and assisting twice on the road to Wembley before Villa lost 2-1 to Manchester City .
United have been tracking his progress for some time but the coronavirus pandemic has created uncertainty over transfers ahead of the window .
However the Manchester Evening News reports Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side will press ahead with their plans to snap up Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham City 's Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho of Borussia Dortmund .
The reports adds United are aware Grealish is 'happy at the prospect ' of completing a move to Old Trafford , which could cost them up to £70m if claims are to be believed .
Solskjaer said recently : `` We 're always looking to improve the squad and this uncertainty in the market now , who knows how football is going to be and how the market is going to be .
`` But I 'm very happy with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today 's world is different to what it was two months ago .
We 've got to adjust to that and there are clubs out there struggling more than us financially . ''
Grealish is under contract until 2023 at Villa Park having penned a new deal in 2018 before playing a vital role in his side 's promotion from the Championship .
The 24-year-old will have a major part to play in Villa 's relegation fight if football resumes , with Dean Smith 's side having 10 matches left to play .

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Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish is a transfer target for Manchester United.
The midfielder has enjoyed a brilliant season in the Premier League, scoring seven goals and providing six assists to spearhead Villa's battle for survival.
He also captained his boyhood club to the Carabao Cup final, scoring and assisting twice on the road to Wembley before Villa lost 2-1 to Manchester City.
United have been tracking his progress for some time but the coronavirus pandemic has created uncertainty over transfers ahead of the window.
However the Manchester Evening News reports Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side will press ahead with their plans to snap up Grealish as well as two other targets, Birmingham City's Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho of Borussia Dortmund.
The reports adds United are aware Grealish is 'happy at the prospect' of completing a move to Old Trafford, which could cost them up to £70m if claims are to be believed.
Solskjaer said recently: "We're always looking to improve the squad and this uncertainty in the market now, who knows how football is going to be and how the market is going to be.
"But I'm very happy with the squad I've got. I think today's world is different to what it was two months ago. We've got to adjust to that and there are clubs out there struggling more than us financially."
Grealish is under contract until 2023 at Villa Park having penned a new deal in 2018 before playing a vital role in his side's promotion from the Championship.
The 24-year-old will have a major part to play in Villa's relegation fight if football resumes, with Dean Smith's side having 10 matches left to play.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--The new Lewandoski linked with West Brom, Spurs and Aston Villa

West Brom will make a heavy investment in their strikeforce should they achieve promotion to the Premier League .
According to reports from Turkish newspaper Aksam , Kosovan forward Vedat Muriqi , currently at Fenerbahce , is on their radar .
There is a long line of interest in the player - with Tottenham Hotspur expressing interest in Muriqi most recently - and Lazio and Albion ’ s West Midlands rivals Aston Villa keeping tabs .
Here ’ s what you need to know about the 26-year-old .
Who is he ?
A 6ft 4ins striker , born in Prizren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Albanian and Turkish passports .
Sign up to our West Brom newsletter here Vedat started his career in his native Kosovo , working his way up through the ranks at Klubi Futbollistik Liria , earning a first-team place before moving on to Albanian side KF Teuta .
A short spell in Albania led to a fruitful move to Turkey .
In 2014 , Muriqi moved to Giresunspor before moving on to Gençlerbirliği .
Muriqi initially found life in the Super Lig tough , and a transfer to Çaykur Rizespor followed in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in top division , with 17 goals and earned a £3m move to Fenerbahçe .
In 2019 he has 15 goals and six assists in 28 appearances in all competitions .
Muriqi can hold up the ball well - battling defenders and midfielders to retain stationary possession to bring others into play , with solid teamwork skills .
He ’ s an accurate , smart striker , and one who is able to score on the floor and in the air .
He ’ s also got a burst of pace although he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey , he has been a threat , and has clearly been able to adapt to different playing styles .
For Kosovo , he is a wide-threat when needed , and for his current side , Fenerbahçe - he ’ s a bit of an all-rounder .
Max Kruse , Muriqi ’ s team-mate , is a big fan : “ I compare him to [ Robert ] Lewandowski .
I think he will be at Bayern ’ s level in two-three seasons.
” Former Turkish international and pundit Rıdvan Dilmen said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be short and quick .
Some are powerful .
Some are tall , like Peter Crouch , who can get the ball on ground .
Muriqi possesses all [ of these ] .
If he could play alongside Alex , he could score 25 goals [ in a season ] .
” Everyone ’ s having a say but with the pandemic having an impact on Turkish football he could be sold .
Kosovan football federation chief Agim Ademi said : “ Tottenham are insisting on signing Muriqi .
“ But there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are interested in him .
Tottenham were ready to pay whatever Fenerbahce wants , but since then , other Serie A clubs have entered the race , such as Napoli.
” His agent Haluk Canatar told Fanatik : “ I will not approve of this question .
The official request from Britain will come .
The official request from Italy will come .
I know it will come , but I can not name the club.
” He ’ s got three years left on his current deal , so he ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be thinking in the region of £18m , although one report said Spurs have already proposed a £22m deal .
Jose Mourinho is said to have had scouts sent to watch the forward prior to the January transfer window opening Fenerbahce meanwhile are holding out for a €25m offer .

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West Brom will make a heavy investment in their strikeforce should they achieve promotion to the Premier League.
According to reports from Turkish newspaper Aksam, Kosovan forward Vedat Muriqi, currently at Fenerbahce, is on their radar.
There is a long line of interest in the player - with Tottenham Hotspur expressing interest in Muriqi most recently - and Lazio and Albion ’s West Midlands rivals Aston Villa keeping tabs.
Here’s what you need to know about the 26-year-old.
Who is he?
A 6ft 4ins striker, born in Prizren, FR Yugoslavia, he holds Kosovan, Albanian and Turkish passports.
Club History
Vedat started his career in his native Kosovo, working his way up through the ranks at Klubi Futbollistik Liria, earning a first-team place before moving on to Albanian side KF Teuta. A short spell in Albania led to a fruitful move to Turkey.
In 2014, Muriqi moved to Giresunspor before moving on to Gençlerbirliği. Muriqi initially found life in the Super Lig tough, and a transfer to Çaykur Rizespor followed in 2018.
At Rizespor, Muriqi performed well in top division, with 17 goals and earned a £3m move to Fenerbahçe.
In 2019 he has 15 goals and six assists in 28 appearances in all competitions.
(Image: VI-Images/Getty Images)
Playing style
Muriqi can hold up the ball well - battling defenders and midfielders to retain stationary possession to bring others into play, with solid teamwork skills.
He’s an accurate, smart striker, and one who is able to score on the floor and in the air. He’s also got a burst of pace although he’s not a flier.
In Turkey, he has been a threat, and has clearly been able to adapt to different playing styles. For Kosovo, he is a wide-threat when needed, and for his current side, Fenerbahçe - he’s a bit of an all-rounder.
Max Kruse, Muriqi’s team-mate, is a big fan: “I compare him to [Robert] Lewandowski. I think he will be at Bayern’s level in two-three seasons.”
Former Turkish international and pundit Rıdvan Dilmen said: “There are some forwards. They might be short and quick. Some are powerful. Some are tall, like Peter Crouch, who can get the ball on ground. Muriqi possesses all [of these]. If he could play alongside Alex, he could score 25 goals [in a season].”
(Image: VI-Images/Getty Images)
What’s his future?
Everyone’s having a say but with the pandemic having an impact on Turkish football he could be sold.
Kosovan football federation chief Agim Ademi said: “Tottenham are insisting on signing Muriqi.
“But there are also other teams in Italy who are interested in him. Tottenham were ready to pay whatever Fenerbahce wants, but since then, other Serie A clubs have entered the race, such as Napoli.”
His agent Haluk Canatar told Fanatik: “I will not approve of this question. The official request from Britain will come. The official request from Italy will come. I know it will come, but I cannot name the club.”
What his contract?
He’s got three years left on his current deal, so he’ll cost.
West Brom are said to be thinking in the region of £18m, although one report said Spurs have already proposed a £22m deal.
Jose Mourinho is said to have had scouts sent to watch the forward prior to the January transfer window opening
Fenerbahce meanwhile are holding out for a €25m offer.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Who is Chukwuemeka? The Villa wonderkid dubbed 'best in England'

He 's among the hottest teenage properties in England - let alone Aston Villa - and he goes by the name of Carney Chukwuemeka .
The 16-year-old has been making waves at Bodymoor Heath which has alerted the interest of some of the Premier League 's big-hitters .
Last month Manchester United , Liverpool and Manchester City have been credited with an interest in the midfielder , who is highly-rated at Villa ’ s academy .
And today Newcastle were linked with the teenager who is still at school .
Villa are hopeful of tying him down to a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his future to the club , it is reported .
It is claimed talks had taken place before the coronavirus shutdown but an agreement has not yet been reached .
The aforementioned clubs are believed to have watched Chukwuemeka in action for Villa ’ s under-18s this season .
But what more do we know about the Villa prospect tipped for a bright future ?
Chukwuemeka is a product of the Villa academy , progressing through the club ’ s youth ranks .
He primarily plays as a central midfielder , capable of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to perform in the ‘ No.10 ’ role .
The 16-year-old is yet to feature in the first-team squad , but his performances for the under-18 side have impressed key people at the club .
In 15 appearances this term , he has scored two goals and provided six assists , with one of his goals coming against Arsenal .
His performances saw him break into Mark Delaney ’ s under-23 side and is now playing against men , some of whom are seven years his senior .
Chukwuemeka is the perfect example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working to promote , insists chief executive Christian Purslow .
Speaking at the Villa Supporters Trust ’ s AGM recently , Purslow said : “ Frankly , I ’ m going to be brutal , 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system isn ’ t working .
`` It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at Aston Villa need to be in the first team .
“ The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16 , 17 and 18-year-olds , then I will know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that will take years , not months .
We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old , nine-year-old , 10-year-old , 11-year-old , 12-year-old , 14 , 16 , one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16 .
“ I want that player .
We have one right now , probably the best 16-year-old in England , Carney ( Chukwuemeka ) .
Absolutely no debate , he ’ s starting for the U23s .
“ That ’ s what you want with your 16-year-olds .
Not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first team , but staying around on contracts because it isn ’ t quite happening .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Ashley Preece, Mark Wakefield)

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He's among the hottest teenage properties in England - let alone Aston Villa - and he goes by the name of Carney Chukwuemeka.
The 16-year-old has been making waves at Bodymoor Heath which has alerted the interest of some of the Premier League's big-hitters.
Last month Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City have been credited with an interest in the midfielder, who is highly-rated at Villa’s academy.
And today Newcastle were linked with the teenager who is still at school.
Villa are hopeful of tying him down to a new deal but he is yet to pledge his future to the club, it is reported.
It is claimed talks had taken place before the coronavirus shutdown but an agreement has not yet been reached.
The aforementioned clubs are believed to have watched Chukwuemeka in action for Villa’s under-18s this season.
But what more do we know about the Villa prospect tipped for a bright future?
Chukwuemeka is a product of the Villa academy, progressing through the club’s youth ranks.
He primarily plays as a central midfielder, capable of going box-to-box, but is also able to perform in the ‘No.10’ role.
The 16-year-old is yet to feature in the first-team squad, but his performances for the under-18 side have impressed key people at the club.
In 15 appearances this term, he has scored two goals and provided six assists, with one of his goals coming against Arsenal.
His performances saw him break into Mark Delaney’s under-23 side and is now playing against men, some of whom are seven years his senior.
Chukwuemeka is the perfect example of what academy boss Mark Harrison is working to promote, insists chief executive Christian Purslow.
Speaking at the Villa Supporters Trust’s AGM recently, Purslow said: “Frankly, I’m going to be brutal, 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system isn’t working.
"It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at Aston Villa need to be in the first team.
“The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16, 17 and 18-year-olds, then I will know it’s working.
"And that will take years, not months. We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, 14, 16, one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16.
“I want that player. We have one right now, probably the best 16-year-old in England, Carney (Chukwuemeka). Absolutely no debate, he’s starting for the U23s.
“That’s what you want with your 16-year-olds. Not people who are not quite breaking into the first team, but staying around on contracts because it isn’t quite happening.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Lucky escape for driver after massive tree falls and crushes car

A driver had a lucky escape after his car was crushed by a massive tree - just as he was about to get in .
Busy Upper Ettingshall Road in Coseley was closed off by police after the tree fell into the road , hitting a black Peugeot car .
Emergency services were called to the scene but no injuries were reported .
Pictures taken at the scene today ( May 13 ) show the damage caused by the tree .
( Above ) The car owner ’ s sister took to social media to tell others about the miraculous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ That tree landed on my brother 's car .
He was just leaving to get in it so lucky and it could easily have hurt someone else or have gone into someone ’ s home.
” Talking to Black Country Live , Katie Sharman said : `` I heard a massive crash bang .
The poor lad was about to get in his car !
`` I came out just after .
Police came about 30 minutes later and blocked the street off .
`` I called Dudley Council Plus who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shortly after , the tree surgeons came and cut the tree up .
It took some internet and telephone wires with it .
The tree took the front of my neighbour 's guttering off . ''
On Facebook , a concerned commenter said : “ So lucky no one in the car.
” Another added : “ He and passersby were very lucky .
The main thing is he has not been killed and no one was hurt especially as it could have damaged someone ’ s house . ''
Firefighters were called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said : “ We were called to Upper Ettingshall Road at 6.32pm to a fallen tree on the public footpath .
“ No casualties or trapped persons were reported and no rescues were required .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Regen, Oprah Flash)

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A driver had a lucky escape after his car was crushed by a massive tree - just as he was about to get in.
Busy Upper Ettingshall Road in Coseley was closed off by police after the tree fell into the road, hitting a black Peugeot car.
Emergency services were called to the scene but no injuries were reported.
(Image: Black Country Live)
Pictures taken at the scene today (May 13) show the damage caused by the tree. (Above)
The car owner’s sister took to social media to tell others about the miraculous escape.
Lisa Young posted on Facebook: “That tree landed on my brother's car. He was just leaving to get in it so lucky and it could easily have hurt someone else or have gone into someone’s home.”
Talking to Black Country Live, Katie Sharman said: "I heard a massive crash bang. The poor lad was about to get in his car!
"I came out just after. Police came about 30 minutes later and blocked the street off.
"I called Dudley Council Plus who sent Highways to check it out. Shortly after, the tree surgeons came and cut the tree up. It took some internet and telephone wires with it. The tree took the front of my neighbour's guttering off."
On Facebook, a concerned commenter said: “So lucky no one in the car.”
Another added: “He and passersby were very lucky. The main thing is he has not been killed and no one was hurt especially as it could have damaged someone’s house."
Firefighters were called to help clear the blocked road.
A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said: “We were called to Upper Ettingshall Road at 6.32pm to a fallen tree on the public footpath.
“No casualties or trapped persons were reported and no rescues were required.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Birmingham City receive key season update after EFL talks - reports

Championship clubs are gearing up for a June restart , according to reports .
EFL bosses held their latest meeting today to discuss plans for resuming the campaign which has been suspended for two months due to the coronavirus crisis .
The Premier League staged its latest round of talks over the Project Restart proposal on Monday .
This week 's meetings came after the government gave permission for sporting events to return in June while it is reported UEFA could be willing to relax their May 25 deadlines for leagues to submit plans for finishing the season .
Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including five at St Andrew 's .
According to ESPN , Pep Clotet 's side could be back in action as early as June 6 - before Aston Villa 's Premier League season resumes .
That date could be pushed back as training will not restart until May 25 but EFL bosses are confident the Championship season will be played to a finish on the pitch .
The top-flight 's Project Restart is working towards a date of June 12 but it is said to be at risk after managers asked for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before resuming fixtures .
The EFL will take part in talks with the Government , Premier League and Professional Footballers ’ Association on Thursday to try and get the green light .
Sign up to our daily Blues newsletter HERE The report states : `` Sources have told ESPN that Championship clubs are now merely waiting to be advised of the safety protocols involving testing , training and the staging of fixtures before launching full-scale preparations to return to action next month . ''
Fixtures would be played behind closed doors with scope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promoted club along with the top two .

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Championship clubs are gearing up for a June restart, according to reports.
EFL bosses held their latest meeting today to discuss plans for resuming the campaign which has been suspended for two months due to the coronavirus crisis.
The Premier League staged its latest round of talks over the Project Restart proposal on Monday.
This week's meetings came after the government gave permission for sporting events to return in June while it is reported UEFA could be willing to relax their May 25 deadlines for leagues to submit plans for finishing the season.
Birmingham City have nine matches left to play including five at St Andrew's.
According to ESPN, Pep Clotet's side could be back in action as early as June 6 - before Aston Villa's Premier League season resumes.
That date could be pushed back as training will not restart until May 25 but EFL bosses are confident the Championship season will be played to a finish on the pitch.
The top-flight's Project Restart is working towards a date of June 12 but it is said to be at risk after managers asked for more time to ensure players are fully fit before resuming fixtures.
The EFL will take part in talks with the Government, Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association on Thursday to try and get the green light.
Sign up to our daily Blues newsletter HERE
The report states: "Sources have told ESPN that Championship clubs are now merely waiting to be advised of the safety protocols involving testing, training and the staging of fixtures before launching full-scale preparations to return to action next month."
Fixtures would be played behind closed doors with scope for the play-offs to determine the third promoted club along with the top two.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Peter Andre shows off baby son Theo for the first time

Proud dad Peter Andre showed off his youngest son Theo on TV today .
The Mysterious Girl hitmaker appeared on Wednesday 's edition of Loose Women .
The dad-of-four is at home during lockdown with his doctor wife Emily and children Theo , three and Amelia , six , reports MirrorOnline .
He revealed during the chat with the Loose Women , that she has to disinfect herself for half an hour when she gets home from her 12-hour hospital shift .
Peter 's children from his marriage with Katie Price - Junior , aged 14 and 12-year-old Princess - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
Cute Theo was sitting on his dad 's lap during the video interview .
Afterward he dashed off and Princess and Junior joined Peter .
When Loose Women host Ruth Langsford asked the kids about their dad 's homeschooling skills , they looked a little awkward !
Princess replied : '' Yeah he 's good , he 's just not very ... '' Peter then jumped in adding `` Yep , okay good thanks ! ''
Junior marked his famous dad a ' C ' for his homeschooling efforts - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked him if he `` still wanted that Xbox !
!
During the chat , Peter described how when Emily returns from work she comes in quietly so she has time to wash before hugging the kids .
The singer said : `` She will come in silently so the children do not hear her and get too excited before she is able to give them a hug .
`` It 's only in the last few months that it 's become this intense because she 's a lot more exposed obviously .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ off all her clothes , she has to put them in the washing machine , wrap a towel around her , go upstairs , have a shower and completely disinfect herself , it takes about 20-30 minutes . ''
* Loose Women airs on weekdays on ITV at 12:30pm .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Verity Sulway, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Proud dad Peter Andre showed off his youngest son Theo on TV today.
The Mysterious Girl hitmaker appeared on Wednesday's edition of Loose Women.
The dad-of-four is at home during lockdown with his doctor wife Emily and children Theo, three and Amelia, six, reports MirrorOnline.
He revealed during the chat with the Loose Women, that she has to disinfect herself for half an hour when she gets home from her 12-hour hospital shift.
Peter's children from his marriage with Katie Price - Junior, aged 14 and 12-year-old Princess - also live with him at the Surrey home.
Cute Theo was sitting on his dad's lap during the video interview. Afterward he dashed off and Princess and Junior joined Peter.
When Loose Women host Ruth Langsford asked the kids about their dad's homeschooling skills, they looked a little awkward!
Princess replied:"Yeah he's good, he's just not very..."
Peter then jumped in adding "Yep, okay good thanks!"
Junior marked his famous dad a 'C' for his homeschooling efforts - but the reasonable grade came only after Peter asked him if he "still wanted that Xbox!!
During the chat, Peter described how when Emily returns from work she comes in quietly so she has time to wash before hugging the kids.
The singer said: "She will come in silently so the children do not hear her and get too excited before she is able to give them a hug.
"It's only in the last few months that it's become this intense because she's a lot more exposed obviously.
"She comes in, she takes off all her clothes, she has to put them in the washing machine, wrap a towel around her, go upstairs, have a shower and completely disinfect herself, it takes about 20-30 minutes."
* Loose Women airs on weekdays on ITV at 12:30pm.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Dad dies of cancer just 48hrs after cuddling newborn baby girl

A terminally ill father whose baby 's birth was brought forward so he could meet her has died - just 48 hours after she was born .
PE teacher Jamie Hunter fulfilled his final wish of cuddling his little daughter Harper May after she was delivered early on Monday .
But it was confirmed tonight ( May 13 ) that the popular football coach , who was suffering from incurable cancer , had died earlier today .
He was aged just 38 .
Sutton United FC , where Jamie was a manager and coach , tweeted the tragic news and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The post said : `` It is with deepest sadness that we have to announce the passing of our beloved Jamie .
A wonderful partner to Beccy and daddy to Harper-May .
Please respect the families wishes at this time .
No further information will be given out .
Please allow the family to grieve in peace . ''
Jamie worked as a PE teacher at John Wilmott School in Sutton Coldfield .
Family friend Phil Taylor previously told BirminghamLive how Jamie and his partner Beccy Flint were over the moon to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of May 2020 .
However , in October 2019 Jamie started to suffer a crippling pain in his side and was diagnosed with kidney cancer in March .
Devastatingly , one month later he was given the news that the cancer had spread to his liver and there was no cure .
Phil and his friend Chad Duggan launched a JustGiving page page in a bid to raise £100,000 to support Jamie 's care , his family and Baby Hunter .
Kind donations flooded in and it reached £50,000 in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just over £65,000 .
The appeal was retweeted by Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish .
Jamie joined Sutton United as a teenager and returned as a manager and coach after deciding to stop playing in 2018 .
Phil had told BirminghamLive : `` As a PE teacher , he has touched so many lives and has been an outstanding role model , developing young people through all walks of life .
`` The kids love him at school .
He 's always helping kids .
He 's always put himself out for everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ godfather to my daughter and my best friend .
I know the money we raise is n't going to keep him here .
If it could , I 'd give it all back .
But I thought we should do whatever we can to support Beccy and the baby . ''
From the money raised , the friends have pledged a donation would be made to John Taylor Hospice , which has been supporting the couple , who met through football .
You can make a donation to the JustGiving page by clicking @

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A terminally ill father whose baby's birth was brought forward so he could meet her has died - just 48 hours after she was born.
PE teacher Jamie Hunter fulfilled his final wish of cuddling his little daughter Harper May after she was delivered early on Monday.
But it was confirmed tonight (May 13) that the popular football coach, who was suffering from incurable cancer, had died earlier today. He was aged just 38.
Sutton United FC, where Jamie was a manager and coach, tweeted the tragic news and paid tribute to the much-loved dad.
The post said: "It is with deepest sadness that we have to announce the passing of our beloved Jamie. A wonderful partner to Beccy and daddy to Harper-May. Please respect the families wishes at this time. No further information will be given out. Please allow the family to grieve in peace."
Jamie worked as a PE teacher at John Wilmott School in Sutton Coldfield.
Family friend Phil Taylor previously told BirminghamLive how Jamie and his partner Beccy Flint were over the moon to find they were expecting their first child at the end of May 2020.
However, in October 2019 Jamie started to suffer a crippling pain in his side and was diagnosed with kidney cancer in March.
Devastatingly, one month later he was given the news that the cancer had spread to his liver and there was no cure.
Phil and his friend Chad Duggan launched a JustGiving page page in a bid to raise £100,000 to support Jamie's care, his family and Baby Hunter. Kind donations flooded in and it reached £50,000 in the first 48 hours and now stands at just over £65,000.
The appeal was retweeted by Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish.
Jamie joined Sutton United as a teenager and returned as a manager and coach after deciding to stop playing in 2018.
Phil had told BirminghamLive: "As a PE teacher, he has touched so many lives and has been an outstanding role model, developing young people through all walks of life.
"The kids love him at school. He's always helping kids. He's always put himself out for everyone else before himself.
"He's godfather to my daughter and my best friend. I know the money we raise isn't going to keep him here. If it could, I'd give it all back. But I thought we should do whatever we can to support Beccy and the baby."
From the money raised, the friends have pledged a donation would be made to John Taylor Hospice,which has been supporting the couple, who met through football. You can make a donation to the JustGiving page by clicking here


birminghammail--2020-05-13--EFL issue key statement on resuming West Brom's season

The EFL has released a statement following today 's meeting setting out plans for moving towards resuming the season .
League bosses have confirmed players should not return to training any earlier than May 25 as a 'comprehensive programme ' for testing is finalised .
West Bromwich Albion have nine matches left to play in their quest to secure promotion from the Championship under Slaven Bilic .
The Baggies have a healthy advantage on third-placed Fulham having battled Leeds United for top spot for the majority of the season .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ... Twitter : All the latest news as 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was reported after the meeting that Championship fixtures could restart on June 6 - before the Premier League .
The statement read : `` The EFL Board has met today to further consider the many complex financial and operational matters resulting out of the COVID-19 crisis , including how the 2019/20 campaign is concluded .
`` While there is much debate and discussion taking place publicly and privately regarding what should , or could , happen next , the EFL will continue to undertake consultation with our members before the next steps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearly on the immediate next steps , but the long-term impact on the League and its clubs remains as stark as previously outlined , and solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis .
The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors .
Sign up to our daily West Brom newsletter HERE '' In addition , the EFL is mindful of the pressing need for clarity in a number of areas , including the practicalities and timeframes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to training .
To address this , clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL ’ s ‘ Return to Training Protocols ’ , so that they can prepare appropriately .
`` However , until all outstanding matters are concluded , including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays , the EFL Board has informed its clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest .
`` Dialogue continues with our colleagues across the footballing and political landscape regarding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EFL is committed to keeping all relevant parties updated on key decisions and developments as they occur . ''

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The EFL has released a statement following today's meeting setting out plans for moving towards resuming the season.
League bosses have confirmed players should not return to training any earlier than May 25 as a 'comprehensive programme' for testing is finalised.
West Bromwich Albion have nine matches left to play in their quest to secure promotion from the Championship under Slaven Bilic.
The Baggies have a healthy advantage on third-placed Fulham having battled Leeds United for top spot for the majority of the season.
It was reported after the meeting that Championship fixtures could restart on June 6 - before the Premier League.
The statement read: "The EFL Board has met today to further consider the many complex financial and operational matters resulting out of the COVID-19 crisis, including how the 2019/20 campaign is concluded.
"While there is much debate and discussion taking place publicly and privately regarding what should, or could, happen next, the EFL will continue to undertake consultation with our members before the next steps are determined.
"Current attention is clearly on the immediate next steps, but the long-term impact on the League and its clubs remains as stark as previously outlined, and solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors.
Sign up to our daily West Brom newsletter HERE
"In addition, the EFL is mindful of the pressing need for clarity in a number of areas, including the practicalities and timeframes of clubs being able to facilitate a return to training. To address this, clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL’s ‘Return to Training Protocols’, so that they can prepare appropriately.
"However, until all outstanding matters are concluded, including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays, the EFL Board has informed its clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest.
"Dialogue continues with our colleagues across the footballing and political landscape regarding these and other issues, and the EFL is committed to keeping all relevant parties updated on key decisions and developments as they occur."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Bullring Debenhams could be saved as talks with landlord underway

Bullring 's Debenhams could be saved from permanent closure - just a week after it was announced the store was to shut for good .
The nationwide retailer fell into administration in April and later said the flagship city centre store would not reopen after lockdown measures are lifted .
But BirminghamLive has learned that Bullring store staff will remain on furlough as owners try to thrash out a new rental deal with shopping centre landlords , Hammerson .
A Debenhams spokesman said : `` The staff remain on furlough whilst we try reach an agreement with the landlord .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find a solution . ''
It is understood Debenhams staff have been told their jobs are currently safe and that they will remain on furlough until further notice .
Last Thursday ( May 7 ) we reported that the store looked 'doomed ' after the chain had been unable to agree terms with Hammerson - which also owns major shopping complexes including Grand Central , London 's Brent Cross and Bicester Village .
The news was announced on the same day Hammerson revealed a £400 million deal to sell seven retail parks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled out .
At the time a spokesman for Debenhams said : `` We can confirm that despite our best efforts , we have been unable to agree terms with Hammerson on our five stores in its shopping centres , and so they will not be reopening .
`` We continue to engage in constructive talks with our landlords and have agreed terms on the vast majority of our stores , which we look forward to reopening when government restrictions allow . ''
But on Monday the Government announced `` non essential '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to open from the start of June .
Debenhams entered administration on April 9 , casting a shadow over the future of its 22,000 staff .
At the time the majority of its employees in the UK were being paid under the Government 's furlough scheme .
Last week Hammersons did not address the closure of the Bullring Debenhams in a response and instead said it was focused on plans to open Next concessions at the store 's beauty halls .

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Bullring's Debenhams could be saved from permanent closure - just a week after it was announced the store was to shut for good.
The nationwide retailer fell into administration in April and later said the flagship city centre store would not reopen after lockdown measures are lifted.
But BirminghamLive has learned that Bullring store staff will remain on furlough as owners try to thrash out a new rental deal with shopping centre landlords, Hammerson.
A Debenhams spokesman said: "The staff remain on furlough whilst we try reach an agreement with the landlord. We are continuing to do everything possible to find a solution."
It is understood Debenhams staff have been told their jobs are currently safe and that they will remain on furlough until further notice.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Last Thursday (May 7) we reported that the store looked 'doomed' after the chain had been unable to agree terms with Hammerson - which also owns major shopping complexes including Grand Central, London's Brent Cross and Bicester Village.
The news was announced on the same day Hammerson revealed a £400 million deal to sell seven retail parks had collapsed after the private equity buyer pulled out.
At the time a spokesman for Debenhams said: "We can confirm that despite our best efforts, we have been unable to agree terms with Hammerson on our five stores in its shopping centres, and so they will not be reopening.
"We continue to engage in constructive talks with our landlords and have agreed terms on the vast majority of our stores, which we look forward to reopening when government restrictions allow."
But on Monday the Government announced "non essential" department stores such as Debenhams could be allowed to open from the start of June.
Debenhams entered administration on April 9, casting a shadow over the future of its 22,000 staff.
At the time the majority of its employees in the UK were being paid under the Government's furlough scheme.
Last week Hammersons did not address the closure of the Bullring Debenhams in a response and instead said it was focused on plans to open Next concessions at the store's beauty halls.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Villa goalkeeper Reina describes Liverpool target as 'extraordinary'

Aston Villa goalkeeper Pepe Reina says Liverpool would be signing an 'extraordinary ' player in Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly .
Reina , 37 , ended his seven-year Premier League exile by joining Villa on loan from AC Milan in the January transfer window .
The former Spain international previously spent nine years at Liverpool , becoming a firm fan favourite across his 400 appearances and winning the FA Cup .
Prior to moving to Milan , Reina was on the books at Napoli - where he played in the same team as Koulibaly .
The Senegal international , regarded to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world football , is being linked with Liverpool ahead of the next transfer window .
According to the Daily Mail , Jurgen Klopp 's side are in pole position to complete a deal for the £87m-rated star .
And he would be worth every penny if Reina 's comments are anything to go by .
He said : “ In a moment , Koulibaly was something extraordinary . ''
Asked about the best defenders he 's played alongside , Reina added : `` Difficult to choose , there have been many strong defenders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partnership was phenomenal when they played.
” Reina recently confirmed during a Q & A he will not return to Villa once his loan spell comes to an end .
He was snapped up as a replacement for the injured Tom Heaton and has played six times under Dean Smith .
`` After the loan spell with Aston Villa , I have to go back , '' he said .
“ I think it will be tough .
I have one-two years left in my career .
I think my time in football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ You never know in the future , but as a player I won ’ t have a chance .
As a coach , who knows .
”

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Aston Villa goalkeeper Pepe Reina says Liverpool would be signing an 'extraordinary' player in Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly.
Reina, 37, ended his seven-year Premier League exile by joining Villa on loan from AC Milan in the January transfer window.
The former Spain international previously spent nine years at Liverpool, becoming a firm fan favourite across his 400 appearances and winning the FA Cup.
Prior to moving to Milan, Reina was on the books at Napoli - where he played in the same team as Koulibaly.
The Senegal international, regarded to be one of the best centre-backs in world football, is being linked with Liverpool ahead of the next transfer window.
According to the Daily Mail, Jurgen Klopp's side are in pole position to complete a deal for the £87m-rated star.
And he would be worth every penny if Reina's comments are anything to go by. He said: “In a moment, Koulibaly was something extraordinary."
Asked about the best defenders he's played alongside, Reina added: "Difficult to choose, there have been many strong defenders. In recent years, the Koulibaly-Albiol partnership was phenomenal when they played.”
Reina recently confirmed during a Q&A he will not return to Villa once his loan spell comes to an end.
He was snapped up as a replacement for the injured Tom Heaton and has played six times under Dean Smith.
"After the loan spell with Aston Villa, I have to go back," he said. “I think it will be tough. I have one-two years left in my career. I think my time in football will end after next year in Milan.
“You never know in the future, but as a player I won’t have a chance. As a coach, who knows.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Lee Camp's brilliant four-letter word Harry Redknapp rant

Lee Camp ’ s antics in charge of Birmingham City ’ s FM20EFLCup campaign have been the highlight of the lockdown .
The Blues goalkeeper has been overseeing the club ’ s virtual attempts to win the Football Manager cup , rising both to the challenge – and the levity of the situation .
He guided Blues to the quarter finals and conducted ‘ post match ’ interviews with the club ’ s media staff , in goalkeeper gloves , with a child ’ s microphone and through an open car window .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came to an end , with a 4-3 defeat at Swansea , Camp saved his best to last , conducting a mock debrief in which he was hit by a ball .
He then proceeded to read the riot act to ‘ Jude Bellingham ’ evoking memories of Harry Redknapp ’ s famous four-letter outburst during his time at Portsmouth in 2008 .
Camp ’ s rant was even bleeped out before he went on to address Bellingham ’ s Twitter ‘ outburst ’ – in Football Manager – after being omitted from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Jude personally and that will remain between me and Jude , ” he said without cracking a smile .
“ I think he has a huge entourage that goes behind him as do a lot of younger players these days .
It may be one of his people.
” He went on to describe how managing the side had ‘ whetted his appetite ’ for further opportunities and even thank the virtual Bluenoses who made the ‘ trip ’ to Swansea .
Watch the video at the top of this piece to @ @ @ @ @ @

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Lee Camp’s antics in charge of Birmingham City’s FM20EFLCup campaign have been the highlight of the lockdown.
The Blues goalkeeper has been overseeing the club’s virtual attempts to win the Football Manager cup, rising both to the challenge – and the levity of the situation.
He guided Blues to the quarter finals and conducted ‘post match’ interviews with the club’s media staff, in goalkeeper gloves, with a child’s microphone and through an open car window.
But as Blues’ cup run came to an end, with a 4-3 defeat at Swansea, Camp saved his best to last, conducting a mock debrief in which he was hit by a ball.
He then proceeded to read the riot act to ‘Jude Bellingham’ evoking memories of Harry Redknapp’s famous four-letter outburst during his time at Portsmouth in 2008.
Camp’s rant was even bleeped out before he went on to address Bellingham’s Twitter ‘outburst’ – in Football Manager – after being omitted from the starting line-up.
“I spoke to Jude personally and that will remain between me and Jude,” he said without cracking a smile.
“I think he has a huge entourage that goes behind him as do a lot of younger players these days. It may be one of his people.”
He went on to describe how managing the side had ‘whetted his appetite’ for further opportunities and even thank the virtual Bluenoses who made the ‘trip’ to Swansea.
Watch the video at the top of this piece to see Camp go all Redknapp.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Carney Chukwuemeka 'seduced' by Newcastle Untied project - report

Newcastle United are the latest Premier League club to be linked with one of Aston Villa ’ s rising stars .
According to Soccer Link , via Sport Witness , the Toon are interested in Carney Chukwuemeka , the 16-year-old who has also been connected with Manchester United and Liverpool .
Villa CEO Christian Purslow recently hailed Chukwuemeka as ‘ probably the best 16-year-old in England right now ’ , with the teenager still at school .
Reports last month suggested he is yet to sign a deal with Villa , although it was claimed there had been talks before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now a new suitor has emerged , in the shape of Newcastle , who are in the throes of a takeover by Saudi Arabia ’ s Public Investment Fund .
They claim they would even be willing to pay £1million for a box-to-box midfielder who has not yet featured with the Villa first team .
The story claims Chukwuemeka is ‘ seduced ’ by the plans Newcastle have , which includes hoovering up the best English talent .
In 15 appearances this term , he has scored two goals and provided six assists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Arsenal .
His performances saw him break into Mark Delaney ’ s under-23 side and was playing against opponents , some of whom are seven years his senior .
Chukwuemeka is the perfect example of what academy boss Mark Harrison is working to promote , Purslow told the Villa Supporters Trust ’ s AGM recently .
“ Frankly , I ’ m going to be brutal , 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system isn ’ t working .
`` It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first team .
`` The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16 , 17 and 18-year-olds , then I will know it ’ s working .
`` And that will take years , not months .
We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old , nine-year-old , 10-year-old , 11-year-old , 12-year-old , 14 , 16 , one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16 .
“ I want that player .
We have one right now , probably the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Absolutely no debate , he ’ s starting for the U23s . ''

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Newcastle United are the latest Premier League club to be linked with one of Aston Villa ’s rising stars.
According to Soccer Link, via Sport Witness, the Toon are interested in Carney Chukwuemeka, the 16-year-old who has also been connected with Manchester United and Liverpool.
Villa CEO Christian Purslow recently hailed Chukwuemeka as ‘probably the best 16-year-old in England right now’, with the teenager still at school.
Reports last month suggested he is yet to sign a deal with Villa, although it was claimed there had been talks before Bodymoor Heath went into lockdown.
And now a new suitor has emerged, in the shape of Newcastle, who are in the throes of a takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
They claim they would even be willing to pay £1million for a box-to-box midfielder who has not yet featured with the Villa first team.
The story claims Chukwuemeka is ‘seduced’ by the plans Newcastle have, which includes hoovering up the best English talent.
In 15 appearances this term, he has scored two goals and provided six assists, with one of his goals coming against Arsenal.
His performances saw him break into Mark Delaney’s under-23 side and was playing against opponents, some of whom are seven years his senior.
Chukwuemeka is the perfect example of what academy boss Mark Harrison is working to promote, Purslow told the Villa Supporters Trust’s AGM recently.
“Frankly, I’m going to be brutal, 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system isn’t working.
"It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at Aston Villa need to be in the first team.
"The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16, 17 and 18-year-olds, then I will know it’s working.
"And that will take years, not months. We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, 14, 16, one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16.
“I want that player. We have one right now, probably the best 16-year-old in England, Carney (Chukwuemeka). Absolutely no debate, he’s starting for the U23s."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Tommy Elphick recalls incredible 'sacking' meeting with Tony Xia

Tommy Elphick has recalled his incredible first meeting with Tony Xia - when the former Aston Villa owner revealed his plan to sack Roberto Di Matteo .
Elphick joined Villa in June 2016 as the first signing under the short-lived Xia and Di Matteo era following relegation .
Having convinced Elphick to drop down from Premier League Bournemouth , the defender was then appointed captain for the new season with promotion the aim .
But after a difficult start to the campaign for Di Matteo , Elphick found himself discussing the potential of his former Cherries boss Eddie Howe becoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground introduction to Xia .
`` My first meeting with Tony Xia summed up how crazy things were at Aston Villa , '' he told The Athletic .
`` I was eating in the canteen at the training ground and his assistant came up to me to say that he had a present downstairs for me .
`` I walked into the boardroom and , said 'nice to meet you , Mr Chairman ' and his first words back were : ' I think I 'm going to sack Roberto .
I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would Eddie Howe do in this situation ? '
`` I was like 'What ?
!
We 're only seven games in… and where 's my present !
? '
'' Elphick added : `` He asked me what Roberto says at half-time and wanted to know what he 's telling the players ( when the team were losing ) .
It was strange .
He wanted to get the club going , but they were crazy times . ''
Di Matteo would go on to last until October , a 2-0 defeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final straw for Xia who moved to appoint Steve Bruce .
Sign up to our daily Aston Villa newsletter HERE '' I felt really sorry for Roberto , '' Elphick , who signed for Huddersfield Town on a permanent deal last year , said .
`` Signings were coming through the door that I do n't think he even had a say over , and he was losing players .
`` There were so many lads who had been hurt for a number of seasons .
They were battered and bruised from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues with some players and the fans .
Often , when it 's like that , players go into a defence mechanism and look after themselves rather than pulling together for the best of the club .
`` Sometimes the easiest way out is to throw the toys out of the pram and get a move .
A lot of them were good players so they got it .
But to get some sort of team spirit with so many players on board was hard .
There were just so many issues .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with The Athletic here .

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Tommy Elphick has recalled his incredible first meeting with Tony Xia - when the former Aston Villa owner revealed his plan to sack Roberto Di Matteo.
Elphick joined Villa in June 2016 as the first signing under the short-lived Xia and Di Matteo era following relegation.
Having convinced Elphick to drop down from Premier League Bournemouth, the defender was then appointed captain for the new season with promotion the aim.
But after a difficult start to the campaign for Di Matteo, Elphick found himself discussing the potential of his former Cherries boss Eddie Howe becoming manager at Villa in a bizarre training ground introduction to Xia.
"My first meeting with Tony Xia summed up how crazy things were at Aston Villa," he told The Athletic.
"I was eating in the canteen at the training ground and his assistant came up to me to say that he had a present downstairs for me.
"I walked into the boardroom and, said 'nice to meet you, Mr Chairman' and his first words back were: 'I think I'm going to sack Roberto. I'm not happy with the results. What would Eddie Howe do in this situation?'
"I was like 'What?! We're only seven games in… and where's my present!?'"
Elphick added: "He asked me what Roberto says at half-time and wanted to know what he's telling the players (when the team were losing). It was strange. He wanted to get the club going, but they were crazy times."
Di Matteo would go on to last until October, a 2-0 defeat to Preston North End proving to be the final straw for Xia who moved to appoint Steve Bruce.
Sign up to our daily Aston Villa newsletter HERE
"I felt really sorry for Roberto," Elphick, who signed for Huddersfield Town on a permanent deal last year, said. "Signings were coming through the door that I don't think he even had a say over, and he was losing players.
"There were so many lads who had been hurt for a number of seasons. They were battered and bruised from losing so many games and there were issues with some players and the fans. Often, when it's like that, players go into a defence mechanism and look after themselves rather than pulling together for the best of the club.
"Sometimes the easiest way out is to throw the toys out of the pram and get a move. A lot of them were good players so they got it. But to get some sort of team spirit with so many players on board was hard. There were just so many issues."
You can read the full interview with The Athletic here.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Kevin Phillips wades into Aston Villa neutral ground debate

The prospect of the Premier League playing to an end at neutral venues looks to be receding following high level talks at the start of this week .
Aston Villa went into those talks with Christian Purslow determined not to relinquish the club ’ s six remaining home games .
While it is pretty clear any matches will have to be played without supporters in attendance , the Villa CEO pointed to the team ’ s relatively decent points return at Villa Park , at least compared to those on their travels .
Sign up to our daily Aston Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it appears as though clubs are more minded to stage games on a home-and-away basis , removing just one of the many issues undermining Project Restart .
And Kevin Phillips , who spent a season at Villa in the Noughties , whilst also playing for Birmingham City and West Brom , gave his backing to the outcome .
Speaking to Football Insider Phillips said : “ It is sensible .
“ Villa have picked up most of their points at home and the stats do not lie .
`` They would be confident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their home games to stay in the Premier League .
“ I understand why these clubs want to do it .
You want it to be played as fairly as possible and that is the only option in which it is fair.
” If the season does resume Villa will face Chelsea , Sheffield United , Arsenal , Crystal Palace , Manchester United and Wolves on home territory .

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The prospect of the Premier League playing to an end at neutral venues looks to be receding following high level talks at the start of this week.
Aston Villa went into those talks with Christian Purslow determined not to relinquish the club’s six remaining home games.
While it is pretty clear any matches will have to be played without supporters in attendance, the Villa CEO pointed to the team’s relatively decent points return at Villa Park, at least compared to those on their travels.
Sign up to our daily Aston Villa newsletter HERE
Since Monday’s summit it appears as though clubs are more minded to stage games on a home-and-away basis, removing just one of the many issues undermining Project Restart.
And Kevin Phillips, who spent a season at Villa in the Noughties, whilst also playing for Birmingham City and West Brom, gave his backing to the outcome.
Speaking to Football Insider Phillips said: “It is sensible.
“Villa have picked up most of their points at home and the stats do not lie.
"They would be confident that they can get enough points from their home games to stay in the Premier League.
“I understand why these clubs want to do it. You want it to be played as fairly as possible and that is the only option in which it is fair.”
If the season does resume Villa will face Chelsea, Sheffield United, Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Manchester United and Wolves on home territory.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--'Substantial' stash of drugs seized from speeding van

A man from Wednesbury has been arrested after sacks of illicit drugs were found in a van .
North Wales Police made the shocking discovery after spotting a speeding Peugeot box van on the A55 near Bangor .
The vehicle was brought to a stop and the 34-year-old driver gave a positive roadside drugs test for both cannabis and cocaine An officer initially found a small amount of Class B drugs and the man was arrested and taken to custody .
The van was then seized and a further search uncovered a substantial amount of what is believed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refuse sacks .
The driver was further arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply .
He has since been released under investigation whilst enquiries continue .
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
PC Leigh McCann of the North Wales Roads Policing Unit said : “ Despite the COVID-19 pandemic , we are continuing to apprehend and arrest those who come into north Wales with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

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A man from Wednesbury has been arrested after sacks of illicit drugs were found in a van.
North Wales Police made the shocking discovery after spotting a speeding Peugeot box van on the A55 near Bangor.
The vehicle was brought to a stop and the 34-year-old driver gave a positive roadside drugs test for both cannabis and cocaine
An officer initially found a small amount of Class B drugs and the man was arrested and taken to custody.
The van was then seized and a further search uncovered a substantial amount of what is believed to be Class A and B drugs stuffed into refuse sacks.
The driver was further arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.
He has since been released under investigation whilst enquiries continue.
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
PC Leigh McCann of the North Wales Roads Policing Unit said: “Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we are continuing to apprehend and arrest those who come into north Wales with the intention of transporting and supplying drugs.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--This Birmingham neighbourhood has been named the coolest in UK

We know Birmingham is a brilliant city .
But our credentials have received a massive boost after the inclusion of Stirchley as one of the trendiest areas in the country .
Conde Nast Traveller named Stirchley in its coolest neighbourhoods in the UK list - almost two years after BirminghamLive highlighted the district as the most up and coming area in Birmingham .
The June 2020 edition of the magazine praises Stirchley for a `` growing restaurant scene to watch '' .
Due to the current strict social distancing measures which has seen the hospitality industry grind to a halt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking to `` more social times ahead '' .
Other UK areas named in the list include Manchester 's Ancoats , Mabgate in Leeds , Aigburth in Liverpool and Sheffield 's Sharrow Vale .
Of Stirchley , the guide says : `` Until recently , the only thing notable about Stirchley was its proximity to Cadbury World ... .
Stirchley seems to have grown out of nowhere , though , with its main drag , Pershore Road , a pick-and-mix selection of quirky boutiques , tap houses and restaurants ... `` However Stirchley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Back in October 2018 we published a feature on why it had become the most up and coming places to buy in the city .
Since then , there has been an explosion of cool bar and restaurant openings such as the acclaimed Couch - voted one of the best 20 bars in the world by The Telegraph .
The Pershore Road drinking hole is currently selling their expertly made cocktails pre-mixed and delivered to your door in bottles .
Other recent openings - before lockdown - included Cork and Cage on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been offering natural wine , craft beer and real cider .
It is currently closed .
Both bars are name checked in Conde Nast Traveller .
The magazine states : `` One way of exploring the area would be to navigate the Stirchley beer mile , stopping in at low-lit Cork and Cage for sours and layered Turkish menemen , and the Wildcat Tap for a pint of Burning Soul ’ s Ice Cream Pale .
`` But above all , Birmingham is increasingly defined by its food scene .
In this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Ming Nham ’ s Eat Vietnam , and delicate sourdough pizzas at Alicia ’ s Micro Bakehouse .
The place once known as the city of a thousand trades is still keeping busy . ''
To check the Birmingham restaurants and breweries offering delivery or click and collect takeaway please click here .

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We know Birmingham is a brilliant city.
But our credentials have received a massive boost after the inclusion of Stirchley as one of the trendiest areas in the country.
Conde Nast Traveller named Stirchley in its coolest neighbourhoods in the UK list - almost two years after BirminghamLive highlighted the district as the most up and coming area in Birmingham.
The June 2020 edition of the magazine praises Stirchley for a "growing restaurant scene to watch".
Due to the current strict social distancing measures which has seen the hospitality industry grind to a halt, the travel magazine acknowledged it was looking to "more social times ahead".
Other UK areas named in the list include Manchester's Ancoats, Mabgate in Leeds, Aigburth in Liverpool and Sheffield's Sharrow Vale.
Of Stirchley, the guide says: "Until recently, the only thing notable about Stirchley was its proximity to Cadbury World.... Stirchley seems to have grown out of nowhere, though, with its main drag, Pershore Road, a pick-and-mix selection of quirky boutiques, tap houses and restaurants... "
However Stirchley has long been on BirminghamLive's radar.
Back in October 2018 we published a feature on why it had become the most up and coming places to buy in the city.
Since then, there has been an explosion of cool bar and restaurant openings such as the acclaimed Couch - voted one of the best 20 bars in the world by The Telegraph.
The Pershore Road drinking hole is currently selling their expertly made cocktails pre-mixed and delivered to your door in bottles.
Other recent openings - before lockdown - included Cork and Cage on the area's 'beer mile' which had been offering natural wine, craft beer and real cider. It is currently closed.
Both bars are name checked in Conde Nast Traveller.
The magazine states: "One way of exploring the area would be to navigate the Stirchley beer mile, stopping in at low-lit Cork and Cage for sours and layered Turkish menemen, and the Wildcat Tap for a pint of Burning Soul’s Ice Cream Pale.
"But above all, Birmingham is increasingly defined by its food scene. In this district, that means BBQ-pork-shoulder bun cha at Ming Nham’s Eat Vietnam, and delicate sourdough pizzas at Alicia’s Micro Bakehouse. The place once known as the city of a thousand trades is still keeping busy."
To check the Birmingham restaurants and breweries offering delivery or click and collect takeaway please click here.