birminghammail--2020-07-04--West Brom's Championship rivals Bristol City sack manager Lee Johnson

One of the biggest changes in the Championship since the restart has been made - with Bristol City sending a shockwave through the league after choosing to cut ties with Lee Johnson - with West Bromwich Albion watching on .
Bristol City , a tip for promotion at the start of the season , have fallen short of expectations .
What has judged to be a massive overperformance has seen the Robins fall to 12th - but performances as judged by expected goals for and against suggest that the side should be far closer to the relegation zone .
Sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email in the box at the top of the page or click here However , while form was enough to keep them from faltering , the restart has reset the side - and the expected performances now match up with the actual results .
Johnson ’ s side had failed to pick up a single point in the four matches since the season restarted , as part of a longer spell of disappointing results that stands at nine games without a win .
That has seen the Robins drop from play-off hopefuls to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Championship season .
It brings an end to Johnson ’ s four years at Ashton Gate , where he took the club from battling against relegation to fighting at the other end of the standings - achieving an eight-placed finish in the 2017-18 season - the club ’ s best finish in a decade .
The same year , he also guided City to the semi-finals of the EFL cup where they exited the competition following a 5-3 aggregate defeat to eventual winners Manchester City .
That saw him pen a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant decline in form since the turn of the year has now led to his exit , with current Assistant Head Coach Dean Holden will take over immediately in a caretaker capacity .
City Chief Executive Mark Ashton said : “ We recognise the huge amount of work that Lee has put in over the last four-and-a-half years to move this club forward and we thank him for all his efforts .
There have been some special moments over those years and Lee has played a significant part in them .
“ However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by results and league position and the Board believes that a change of management is needed now for Bristol City .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Josh Challies, James Rushton)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
One of the biggest changes in the Championship since the restart has been made - with Bristol City sending a shockwave through the league after choosing to cut ties with Lee Johnson - with West Bromwich Albion watching on.
Bristol City, a tip for promotion at the start of the season, have fallen short of expectations.
What has judged to be a massive overperformance has seen the Robins fall to 12th - but performances as judged by expected goals for and against suggest that the side should be far closer to the relegation zone.
Sign up for our Baggies newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
However, while form was enough to keep them from faltering, the restart has reset the side - and the expected performances now match up with the actual results.
Johnson’s side had failed to pick up a single point in the four matches since the season restarted, as part of a longer spell of disappointing results that stands at nine games without a win.
That has seen the Robins drop from play-off hopefuls to mid-table obscurity heading into the final weeks of the Championship season.
It brings an end to Johnson’s four years at Ashton Gate, where he took the club from battling against relegation to fighting at the other end of the standings - achieving an eight-placed finish in the 2017-18 season - the club’s best finish in a decade.
The same year, he also guided City to the semi-finals of the EFL cup where they exited the competition following a 5-3 aggregate defeat to eventual winners Manchester City.
That saw him pen a new four-year deal last May but a significant decline in form since the turn of the year has now led to his exit, with current Assistant Head Coach Dean Holden will take over immediately in a caretaker capacity.
City Chief Executive Mark Ashton said: “We recognise the huge amount of work that Lee has put in over the last four-and-a-half years to move this club forward and we thank him for all his efforts. There have been some special moments over those years and Lee has played a significant part in them.
“However, success in football is ultimately judged by results and league position and the Board believes that a change of management is needed now for Bristol City.”


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Pep Clotet makes EFL 'clarity' demand as Blues' slide continues

Pep Clotet has called for clarity on the situation at the bottom of the Championship following Wigan Athletic ’ s controversial slide into administration .
The Birmingham City head coach was speaking after his team lost in gut-wrenching fashion at Fulham , a Josh Onomah goal five minutes into added time finally breaking Blues ’ rearguard action .
The result left Blues five points clear of the bottom three - at least until Wigan ’ s situation is cleared up .
The EFL announced on July 1 they would be deducted 12 points - but it is not clear whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next .
Clotet expressed his sympathy for the Latics but insists a clear ruling should be made .
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here “ In life clarity is always good , I don ’ t know the extent of all the rules , I just read the statement and the statement states very clearly they will get a 12-point deduction , ” he said .
“ But I am not an expert if that should be applied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always good .
“ Sometimes it is not easy to act with clarity I understand but it is something that football will benefit from .
“ I respect the work of the EFL , I assume it is not easy , we had an example with players who were on loan and are back beacuse their season has been curtailed , I thought the regulation was clear because it is easy to apply but it just turned out to be a loophole , impossible – like a blackhole .
“ Unfortunately that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are talking about rules and regulations of clubs getting bankrupt for the fairness of the competition and I am sorry what happened because the last people deserving that is everybody at Wigan .
“ But rules are rules , I think clarity will be much appreciated for everyone – definitely .
“ But it doesn ’ t change my mentality because I am not looking over my shoulder , the only thing is I am seeing it as a platform , we want to finish as high as possible .
“ We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finished last season and we want to get to that point as soon as possible with games to go.
” If Wigan are deducted 12 points that will put them on 38 and mean Barnsley are the team chasing Blues on 41 points - eight points behind with five games to go .
However , as things stand Blues are only five points clear of the drop zone and Hull and Middlesbrough both have games in hand .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Pep Clotet has called for clarity on the situation at the bottom of the Championship following Wigan Athletic’s controversial slide into administration.
The Birmingham City head coach was speaking after his team lost in gut-wrenching fashion at Fulham, a Josh Onomah goal five minutes into added time finally breaking Blues’ rearguard action.
The result left Blues five points clear of the bottom three - at least until Wigan’s situation is cleared up.
The EFL announced on July 1 they would be deducted 12 points - but it is not clear whether that will be applied this season or next.
Clotet expressed his sympathy for the Latics but insists a clear ruling should be made.
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
“In life clarity is always good, I don’t know the extent of all the rules, I just read the statement and the statement states very clearly they will get a 12-point deduction,” he said.
“But I am not an expert if that should be applied now or next season – but clarity is always good.
“Sometimes it is not easy to act with clarity I understand but it is something that football will benefit from.
“I respect the work of the EFL, I assume it is not easy, we had an example with players who were on loan and are back beacuse their season has been curtailed, I thought the regulation was clear because it is easy to apply but it just turned out to be a loophole, impossible – like a blackhole.
“Unfortunately that does not help football.
“We are talking about rules and regulations of clubs getting bankrupt for the fairness of the competition and I am sorry what happened because the last people deserving that is everybody at Wigan.
“But rules are rules, I think clarity will be much appreciated for everyone – definitely.
“But it doesn’t change my mentality because I am not looking over my shoulder, the only thing is I am seeing it as a platform, we want to finish as high as possible.
“We are only three points away from where we finished last season and we want to get to that point as soon as possible with games to go.”
If Wigan are deducted 12 points that will put them on 38 and mean Barnsley are the team chasing Blues on 41 points - eight points behind with five games to go.
However, as things stand Blues are only five points clear of the drop zone and Hull and Middlesbrough both have games in hand.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Birmingham City fans react as Fulham seal last-gasp victory

It came down to the wire - and Birmingham City were so close to a point .
However , it was not to be .
The Blues came within a minute of taking a point against Fulham , but were stunned by a late goal .
Josh Onomah pounced late on after a neat passing move to finish from close range , ensuring Blues would leave London empty-handed .
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Blues have n't won in nine games , and are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clotet set to leave at the end of the season , the squad will be paying a close eye to the relegation scrap at the bottom of the table .
Here 's what the Blues faithful made of the latest result ... '' Played well against a good team .
Play like that against Swansea and Stoke and we ’ ll win .
Two mins away from a great result . ''
`` You have to play football in both halves to deserve a result . ''
`` We got what we deserved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now !
!
Officially very worried . ''
`` Cheers for the clarity , was still a bit confused whether we suffered a painful defeat today or not.. '' '' Asked for it though really , going defensive in the 56th minute . ''
`` What is it about Fulham and last minute goals in extra time .
Many remember the 1975 semi final in which they scored in the last 10 seconds of injury time .
A watershed for BCFC .
We have never been quite the same club again . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they still score . ''
`` Excellent game by the lads .
We just got unlucky .
Oh well onto the next game . ''
`` The subs today were so negative .
Literally playing with a back six for the last 15 minutes . ''

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
It came down to the wire - and Birmingham City were so close to a point.
However, it was not to be.
The Blues came within a minute of taking a point against Fulham, but were stunned by a late goal.
Josh Onomah pounced late on after a neat passing move to finish from close range, ensuring Blues would leave London empty-handed.
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Blues haven't won in nine games, and are winless since the restart. With Pep Clotet set to leave at the end of the season, the squad will be paying a close eye to the relegation scrap at the bottom of the table.
Here's what the Blues faithful made of the latest result...
"Played well against a good team. Play like that against Swansea and Stoke and we’ll win. Two mins away from a great result."
"Good news about Wigan then?"
"You have to play football in both halves to deserve a result."
"We got what we deserved."
"Really in the mire now!! Officially very worried."
"Cheers for the clarity, was still a bit confused whether we suffered a painful defeat today or not.."
"Asked for it though really, going defensive in the 56th minute."
"What is it about Fulham and last minute goals in extra time. Many remember the 1975 semi final in which they scored in the last 10 seconds of injury time. A watershed for BCFC. We have never been quite the same club again."
"We have 6 defenders on and they still score."
"Excellent game by the lads. We just got unlucky. Oh well onto the next game."
"Good job Wigan are gonna get a 12 point deduction."
"The subs today were so negative. Literally playing with a back six for the last 15 minutes."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--What Birmingham looked like on the first day pubs and hairdressers reopened

It was the day many punters had 'dreamed of ' while some admitted eagerly waiting since the very start of lockdown for the moment pubs could finally welcome them back .
Birmingham 's much-loved boozers , hairdressers and restaurants were allowed to open their doors from 6am this morning - the day dubbed Super Saturday ( July 4 ) - after more than three months of closure .
While Brummies have been waiting to sport a fresh trim or sip beer from the comfort of their local , the hospitality sector has been working tirelessly to become Covid-safe .
Face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were donned by barbers and hairdressers as we saw our first glimpse of normality in how the city is continuing in the midst of a deadly coronavirus pandemic .
Meanwhile , some pubs were operating 'one table out , one table in ' policies , with groups of customers seen queuing in the rain outside a JD Wetherspoon for mid-afternoon service .
One-way entrance and exit systems and one-in one-out measures for toilet trips were also in place to keep customers safe from the spread of Covid-19 .
The Gate Inn in Sutton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers to check in with their details - which would be kept for 21 days for the Government 's track and trace system .
Socially-distanced spots had also been marked on pavements outside boozers to help manage lengthy queues of waiting diners or drinkers .
The largest queue seen was the 20-strong line spotted outside The Wellington pub - as regulars flocked to support a venue forced to chuck 20,000 pints over the shutdown .
Across the city centre , three Geordie lads were the first to enjoy a pint at the JD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8am opening .
Ben Clark , who had just finished a night shift at a construction site nearby , queued from 7am alongside his two work pals Curtis and Connor .
He told BirminghamLive : `` We 've just finished night shifts , I 've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning , when we came and reserved our tables ready for the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast .
`` I 'm a big fan of Wetherspoon , definitely , I 've been waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
However , many of the city 's restaurants had yet to reopen - with stark scenes from Grand Central capturing rows of empty chairs and tables in still-shut premises .
Nando 's said its Bullring branch will open on Wednesday , July 8 with Covid-19 safety measures in place - a full four days after 'Super Saturday ' when bars and pubs reopened .
Elsewhere , the city 's usually bustling nightspot Broad Street appeared fairly quiet in the afternoon , but police and ambulances could be seen lining the strip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brian Hughes , chairman of the city centre neighbourhood forum , outlined concerns over controlling the volume of people he predicted would turnout to the street later on .
`` I think you 'll see a different turnout later , so I 'm concerned that we keep it under control , '' he said .
`` So far people are behaving very well because I 've been to several local bars and establishments to see how they 're handling it .
Most of them are dealing with bookings only , but they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He also raised concerns over the lack of crossing points as he said this could spell trouble should a fight break out on the strip .
`` One of my bigger concerns is the way that the tram lines have been handled at the minute and the fact that there 's no crossing points which I believe could cause flashpoints later when people have had a few drinks .
`` The crossing points were put there for that reason so we would n't have problems and people had somewhere to go if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ altercation , they ca n't at the moment , they 're trapped . ''
The concerns came amid warnings from a West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic not to drink three months of booze in one night - and the stark reminder that coronavirus is still a threat .
Speaking on a day which saw 39 more die from Covid-19 in England , Rob Moore said : `` If you are heading out , please remember you do n't need to drink three months worth of alcohol in one night .
`` Try and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus is still a problem , do n't forget the social distancing rules and to wash your hands really regularly .
`` Stick with your mates and have a plan to get home safely , do n't drink and drive .
Whatever you do on your night out know your limits and stay safe , you do n't want to end up in an ambulance like this one . ''
We have been covering Super Saturday in our live blog throughout the day .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Graham Young, Stephanie Balloo)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
It was the day many punters had 'dreamed of' while some admitted eagerly waiting since the very start of lockdown for the moment pubs could finally welcome them back.
Birmingham's much-loved boozers, hairdressers and restaurants were allowed to open their doors from 6am this morning - the day dubbed Super Saturday (July 4) - after more than three months of closure.
While Brummies have been waiting to sport a fresh trim or sip beer from the comfort of their local, the hospitality sector has been working tirelessly to become Covid-safe.
Face masks, visors, gloves and aprons were donned by barbers and hairdressers as we saw our first glimpse of normality in how the city is continuing in the midst of a deadly coronavirus pandemic.
Meanwhile, some pubs were operating 'one table out, one table in' policies, with groups of customers seen queuing in the rain outside a JD Wetherspoon for mid-afternoon service.
One-way entrance and exit systems and one-in one-out measures for toilet trips were also in place to keep customers safe from the spread of Covid-19.
(Image: Iain Findlay)
The Gate Inn in Sutton Coldfield was just one pub asking for customers to check in with their details - which would be kept for 21 days for the Government's track and trace system.
Socially-distanced spots had also been marked on pavements outside boozers to help manage lengthy queues of waiting diners or drinkers.
The largest queue seen was the 20-strong line spotted outside The Wellington pub - as regulars flocked to support a venue forced to chuck 20,000 pints over the shutdown.
Across the city centre, three Geordie lads were the first to enjoy a pint at the JD Wetherspoon after queuing an hour before the 8am opening.
(Image: Iain Findlay)
Ben Clark, who had just finished a night shift at a construction site nearby, queued from 7am alongside his two work pals Curtis and Connor.
He told BirminghamLive: "We've just finished night shifts, I've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning, when we came and reserved our tables ready for the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast.
"I'm a big fan of Wetherspoon, definitely, I've been waiting for it since the first day of lockdown."
However, many of the city's restaurants had yet to reopen - with stark scenes from Grand Central capturing rows of empty chairs and tables in still-shut premises.
Nando's said its Bullring branch will open on Wednesday, July 8 with Covid-19 safety measures in place - a full four days after 'Super Saturday' when bars and pubs reopened.
Elsewhere, the city's usually bustling nightspot Broad Street appeared fairly quiet in the afternoon, but police and ambulances could be seen lining the strip in preparation of the highly-anticipated evening.
Brian Hughes, chairman of the city centre neighbourhood forum, outlined concerns over controlling the volume of people he predicted would turnout to the street later on.
(Image: Graham Young)
"I think you'll see a different turnout later, so I'm concerned that we keep it under control," he said.
"So far people are behaving very well because I've been to several local bars and establishments to see how they're handling it. Most of them are dealing with bookings only, but they will take walk-ins if there's room."
He also raised concerns over the lack of crossing points as he said this could spell trouble should a fight break out on the strip.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"One of my bigger concerns is the way that the tram lines have been handled at the minute and the fact that there's no crossing points which I believe could cause flashpoints later when people have had a few drinks.
"The crossing points were put there for that reason so we wouldn't have problems and people had somewhere to go if a fight was going on or an altercation, they can't at the moment, they're trapped."
The concerns came amid warnings from a West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic not to drink three months of booze in one night - and the stark reminder that coronavirus is still a threat.
Speaking on a day which saw 39 more die from Covid-19 in England, Rob Moore said: "If you are heading out, please remember you don't need to drink three months worth of alcohol in one night.
"Try and alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks. Coronavirus is still a problem, don't forget the social distancing rules and to wash your hands really regularly.
"Stick with your mates and have a plan to get home safely, don't drink and drive. Whatever you do on your night out know your limits and stay safe, you don't want to end up in an ambulance like this one."
We have been covering Super Saturday in our live blog throughout the day.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Villa fans go nuts as Josh Onomah buries Birmingham City

Aston Villa fans were quick to pick up a moment of heartbreak for their local rivals - caused by a former Villa loan star .
Birmingham City - winless since the Championship restart - were unable to progress from 17th place - thanks to a 1-0 loss against Fulham .
They did well to hold off Scott Parker 's team , but could n't stop former Villan Josh Onomah from stealing a winner , right at the end of the match .
Onomah made the most of a snappy Fulham move to bury from close range deep into six minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of the game .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here The former Tottenham player was infamously offered to Villa in a reported trade deal for Jack Grealish .
Villa allegedly turned their nose up at the '£3m plus Onomah ' deal and the rest is history .
He was familiar to the fanbase at that point as well , having played under Steve Bruce on loan from Spurs at Villa Park .
Onomah showed occasional promise for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grealish - but could n't truly get going during his loan spell .
Despite that , he still scored four goals in 20 starts for the club .
However , he 's still sparking joy for Villans despite moving on to Fulham .
Here 's what Villa fans made of his goal ... '' Could 've done this a few more times for us ! ''
`` I always did like Josh Onamah . ''

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa fans were quick to pick up a moment of heartbreak for their local rivals - caused by a former Villa loan star.
Birmingham City - winless since the Championship restart - were unable to progress from 17th place - thanks to a 1-0 loss against Fulham.
They did well to hold off Scott Parker's team, but couldn't stop former Villan Josh Onomah from stealing a winner, right at the end of the match.
Onomah made the most of a snappy Fulham move to bury from close range deep into six minutes of added injury time at the very end of the game.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
The former Tottenham player was infamously offered to Villa in a reported trade deal for Jack Grealish. Villa allegedly turned their nose up at the '£3m plus Onomah' deal and the rest is history.
He was familiar to the fanbase at that point as well, having played under Steve Bruce on loan from Spurs at Villa Park.
Onomah showed occasional promise for Villa - especially when linking up with Grealish - but couldn't truly get going during his loan spell. Despite that, he still scored four goals in 20 starts for the club.
However, he's still sparking joy for Villans despite moving on to Fulham.
Here's what Villa fans made of his goal...
"Tek like Onomah.
"Man like..."
"JOSHYYY!"
"Could've done this a few more times for us!"
"Josh Onomah loves the Villa."
"MAN LIKE ONOMAH."
"Agent Onomah supplying the goods."
"I always did like Josh Onamah."
"Onomah, my man."
"Love it Joshy."
"Still loves the Villa."
"Josh Onomah, my hero my mate."
"3 mil and Onomah..."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Birmingham City player ratings as Fulham strike late

Birmingham City came within a minute of a valiant point at Fulham only to be hit by a sucker punch deep into added time .
Pep Clotet ’ s men looked to have negotiated a difficult afternoon at Craven Cottage with a determined rearguard action - until Josh Onomah struck in the fifth minute of added time .
As a result they are still looking for their first Championship victory in nine matches and nervously over their shoulders with an uncertain restart to their season .
This was heartbreaking .
After starting so sloppily in their previous two matches Blues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first minute – and they certainly were .
Indeed they had by far the better chances of the first half , twice striking the woodwork and having a good penalty shout as Fulham dominated possession but the visitors came closest to scoring .
Jude Bellingham had their two most clear opportunities , in the second minute failing to capitalise on Michael Hector ’ s blind back-pass when he tried to take it around Marek Rodak .
Soon after that he picked up a loose clearance from Anthony Knockaert but curled straight at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just before the quarter hour the excellent Jeremie Bela raced away from Hector and his cross was deflected up to the 17-year-old who nodded on to the crossbar .
Three minutes before the break Blues felt they should have had a penalty when Denis Odoi leaned into a ball into the box which appeared to touch his arm .
The hosts were far more positive in the second half not only monopolising the ball but actually using it to better effect and at times laying siege to the Birmingham goal .
Most of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tamely at Lee Camp after being found by Ivan Cavaleiro just before the midway point .
Then with a quarter of an hour the Belgian escaped in behind Kristian Pedersen only to fire into the near side netting .
Camp was severely tested in the final ten minutes though as Joe Bryan , Onomah and Bobby De Cordova-Reid were all kept out superbly .
He was finally beaten in the 95th minute when former Aston Villa loan man Onomah swept home from 15 yards to break Blues ’ hearts .
Sign up for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the box at the top of the page or click here Really diligently protected in the first half when he organised well what was in front of him but had no shots to stop .
Busier in the third-quarter , one worrying drop from Bryan free kick but unpunished .
Good alert save from Kebano 's late drive and a stunning double stop with four minutes to go .
Did n't deserve to be on the losing side .
Given the captain ’ s armband and responded with a studious display in defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picked at the seams of the Blues right hand side .
Looked unsteady in the first two minutes – and one scything tackle before the break saw him booked – but overall he looked very solid and dominant in the air .
Was in the right place to head clear on a couple of occasions in the first half , showing top class anticipation .
For so long was a one-man defensive wall as he seemed to block everything - even his yellow card was intellingently earned .
Largely kept Knockaert under wraps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important headers and reading the game well .
Under much more pressure from the Belgian in the second half and just about held up to it .
Best display since returning .
His first half was just as notable for his harrying and hustling out of possession as anything he did with the ball .
Mature and committed display that spoke volumes about his work ethic .
Recalled to the team and sat and held his position really well , snapping into tackles and mopping up when needed .
Tired late on , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ivan Sunjic next to him and less distance between Blues ’ lines .
He played a leader ’ s role without the captain ’ s armband .
Absolutely tore Fulham right hand side to shreds early on , giving Christie and Hector first half nightmares .
Blues struggled to find him in the second half though as Fulham pressed and his influence waned .
Deployed in an advanced role behind Hogan and had three good chances to provide Blues with an early lead – the fact he didn ’ t might have explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ booking .
Which possibly explains why he was subbed before the hour .
Not quite at his best .
Set the tone in the first half when his pressing caused havoc with the nervy Fulham back-line .
Ball didn ’ t drop to him in the box in the opening 45 but his work-rate was super .
HARDING 5 ( for Bela , 74 ) Stuck at it

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Birmingham City came within a minute of a valiant point at Fulham only to be hit by a sucker punch deep into added time.
Pep Clotet’s men looked to have negotiated a difficult afternoon at Craven Cottage with a determined rearguard action - until Josh Onomah struck in the fifth minute of added time.
As a result they are still looking for their first Championship victory in nine matches and nervously over their shoulders with an uncertain restart to their season. This was heartbreaking.
After starting so sloppily in their previous two matches Blues needed to be more assertive from the first minute – and they certainly were.
Indeed they had by far the better chances of the first half, twice striking the woodwork and having a good penalty shout as Fulham dominated possession but the visitors came closest to scoring.
Jude Bellingham had their two most clear opportunities, in the second minute failing to capitalise on Michael Hector’s blind back-pass when he tried to take it around Marek Rodak.
Soon after that he picked up a loose clearance from Anthony Knockaert but curled straight at the Fulham goalkeeper from 20 yards.
And just before the quarter hour the excellent Jeremie Bela raced away from Hector and his cross was deflected up to the 17-year-old who nodded on to the crossbar.
Three minutes before the break Blues felt they should have had a penalty when Denis Odoi leaned into a ball into the box which appeared to touch his arm.
The hosts were far more positive in the second half not only monopolising the ball but actually using it to better effect and at times laying siege to the Birmingham goal.
Most of their openings fell to Knockaert who hit tamely at Lee Camp after being found by Ivan Cavaleiro just before the midway point.
Then with a quarter of an hour the Belgian escaped in behind Kristian Pedersen only to fire into the near side netting.
Camp was severely tested in the final ten minutes though as Joe Bryan, Onomah and Bobby De Cordova-Reid were all kept out superbly.
He was finally beaten in the 95th minute when former Aston Villa loan man Onomah swept home from 15 yards to break Blues’ hearts.
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
STARTING FORMATION
4-5-1
CAMP 9
Really diligently protected in the first half when he organised well what was in front of him but had no shots to stop.
Busier in the third-quarter, one worrying drop from Bryan free kick but unpunished. Good alert save from Kebano's late drive and a stunning double stop with four minutes to go. Didn't deserve to be on the losing side.
(Image: Getty Images)
COLIN 8
Given the captain’s armband and responded with a studious display in defence against Ivan Cavaleiro and Tom Cairney who picked at the seams of the Blues right hand side.
ROBERTS 7.5
Looked unsteady in the first two minutes – and one scything tackle before the break saw him booked – but overall he looked very solid and dominant in the air.
CLARKE-SALTER 8.5
Was in the right place to head clear on a couple of occasions in the first half, showing top class anticipation. For so long was a one-man defensive wall as he seemed to block everything - even his yellow card was intellingently earned.
PEDERSEN 7.5
Largely kept Knockaert under wraps in the opening 45, winning some important headers and reading the game well.
Under much more pressure from the Belgian in the second half and just about held up to it. Best display since returning.
(Image: Adam Davy/PA Wire)
CROWLEY 6.5
His first half was just as notable for his harrying and hustling out of possession as anything he did with the ball. Mature and committed display that spoke volumes about his work ethic.
SUNJIC 6.5
Recalled to the team and sat and held his position really well, snapping into tackles and mopping up when needed. Tired late on, understandably.
GARDNER 7.5
Looked much more stable with Ivan Sunjic next to him and less distance between Blues’ lines. He played a leader’s role without the captain’s armband.
BELA 7
Absolutely tore Fulham right hand side to shreds early on, giving Christie and Hector first half nightmares.
Blues struggled to find him in the second half though as Fulham pressed and his influence waned.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
BELLINGHAM 5
Deployed in an advanced role behind Hogan and had three good chances to provide Blues with an early lead – the fact he didn’t might have explained some errant tackles which resulted in a booking.
Which possibly explains why he was subbed before the hour. Not quite at his best.
HOGAN 6
Set the tone in the first half when his pressing caused havoc with the nervy Fulham back-line. Ball didn’t drop to him in the box in the opening 45 but his work-rate was super.
SUBSTITUTES
KIEFTENBELD 5.5 (for Bellingham, 57) Industrious
HARDING 5 (for Bela, 74) Stuck at it
JUTKIEWICZ5 minimal impact (for Hogan, 75)
DEAN (for Crowley, 84) N/A
Not used: Trueman, Gordon, Stirk, Boyd-Munce, Reid
OPPOSITION
FULHAM (4-3-3): Rodak; Christie, Ream, Hector, Odoi (Bryan 45); Cairney, Reed, Arter (Onomah 60); Cavaleiro (Kebano 70), De Cordova-Reid, Knockaert. Not used: Bettinelli, Le Marchard, Sessegnon, McDonald, Johansen, Jasper
GOALS
FULHAM: Onomah (90+5)
THE REF: Keith Stroud
NEXT UP: Swansea (h), Wednesday, July 8, 6pm kick-off


birminghammail--2020-07-04--'Like Barcelona' - West Brom fans react as Leeds United pour on the pressure

West Bromwich fans have been reacting to today 's Championship action - especially the outcome of Leeds United 's match against Blackburn Rovers .
Leeds are competing with Albion for the Championship title , with both sides holding promotion hopes .
A stunning Kalvin Phillips aided Leeds ' victory as Marcelo Bielsa 's side maintained their table topping form .
Goals from Patrick Bamford and Mateusz Klich provided a 3-1 victory at Ewood Park .
Elsewhere a Said Benrahma hat-trick inspired Brentford to victory against Wigan Athletic , meaning that the Baggies will have one eye on the situation unfolding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chasing .
A draw against rivals Derby County stalled Nottingham Forest 's momentum , and they end the weekend on 68 points , enough for fourth place .
Sign up for our West Brom newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Leeds ' victory maintains their position at the top of the table , and Brentford 's pushes them into the front of the chasing pack West Brom are to still to play in this second-tier gameweek , and face relegation threatened Hull City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own hopes held high of promotion .
A failure to win will allow Brentford and Leeds to capitalise .
`` Pressure back on us now . ''
`` Blackburn will play like Barcelona when we go there . ''
`` Forget Brentford & Leeds ... up to us to do our own job . ''
`` Game set match , thats fine , the rest have kept the pressure on , we know what to do now lads . ''
`` Another must win tomorrow .
We never do things the easy way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how everyone else gets on we win our remaining games we ’ re up .
It ’ s up to the players how much they want it . ''
`` Don ’ t like the fact we are always last to play lately . ''
`` Not getting at least a draw at Brentford is going to cost us . ''
`` Be quite an achievement if Albion can stay ahead of the Bees over 46 games .
`` 3

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
West Bromwich fans have been reacting to today's Championship action - especially the outcome of Leeds United's match against Blackburn Rovers.
Leeds are competing with Albion for the Championship title, with both sides holding promotion hopes.
A stunning Kalvin Phillips aided Leeds' victory as Marcelo Bielsa's side maintained their table topping form. Goals from Patrick Bamford and Mateusz Klich provided a 3-1 victory at Ewood Park.
Elsewhere a Said Benrahma hat-trick inspired Brentford to victory against Wigan Athletic, meaning that the Baggies will have one eye on the situation unfolding in third place, with the Bees chasing. A draw against rivals Derby County stalled Nottingham Forest's momentum, and they end the weekend on 68 points, enough for fourth place.
Sign up for our West Brom newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Leeds' victory maintains their position at the top of the table, and Brentford's pushes them into the front of the chasing pack
West Brom are to still to play in this second-tier gameweek, and face relegation threatened Hull City, and a win will keep their own hopes held high of promotion.
A failure to win will allow Brentford and Leeds to capitalise.
Here's what Baggies fans made of today's results...
"Pressure back on us now."
"Blackburn on their holidays."
"Blackburn will play like Barcelona when we go there."
"Forget Brentford & Leeds...up to us to do our own job."
"Game set match, thats fine, the rest have kept the pressure on, we know what to do now lads."
"Another must win tomorrow. We never do things the easy way."
"Doesn’t matter how everyone else gets on we win our remaining games we’re up. It’s up to the players how much they want it."
"Don’t like the fact we are always last to play lately."
"Not getting at least a draw at Brentford is going to cost us."
"Be quite an achievement if Albion can stay ahead of the Bees over 46 games."3


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Villa fans react as Benrahma puts on another Brentford masterclass

Aston Villa fans are once again ruing the decision to not bring Said Benrahma to Villa Park last summer .
Dean Smith is a big admirer of the Algerian forward , having brought him to English football , when he was Brentford boss in 2018 .
It is understood that there were attempts to bring him to Villa Park last year , with the club ultimately baulking at the £20m price tag placed on the forward .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Villa remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently reporting that Smith will sanction a club-record deal to bring him to B6 - if they remain in the Premier League .
But with Villa 's Premier League struggles seeing them sit in the relegation zone , it is a case of what might have been .
On Saturday , Benrahma netted his second hat-trick of the season in the Bees ' thumping win over Wigan , bringing his tally to 14 for the season .
With Chelsea also holding an interest , Villa fans on social media have been discussing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transfer error : @ HarveyAVFC : If we stay up , this man needs to be on the shortlist .
Looks an absolute joke , would love to have him at vp @ AstonVillaUTV : Ca n't believe we refused to pay the price for him.. @ 1874Dan : Benrahma hattrick get ready for the “ Get ‘ im at moi club ” @ AVFCTransTweet : Benrahma hat trick today .
The one signing that would have made all the difference for us @ EbreyBrad : Said Benrahma what a player !
Go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have bought him to Villa start of this season .
@ matty_jeff : Why did n't we buy him again ?
Knew we 'd regret it

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa fans are once again ruing the decision to not bring Said Benrahma to Villa Park last summer.
Dean Smith is a big admirer of the Algerian forward, having brought him to English football, when he was Brentford boss in 2018.
It is understood that there were attempts to bring him to Villa Park last year, with the club ultimately baulking at the £20m price tag placed on the forward.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Villa remain interested in Benrahma, with the Athletic recently reporting that Smith will sanction a club-record deal to bring him to B6 - if they remain in the Premier League.
But with Villa's Premier League struggles seeing them sit in the relegation zone, it is a case of what might have been.
On Saturday, Benrahma netted his second hat-trick of the season in the Bees' thumping win over Wigan, bringing his tally to 14 for the season.
With Chelsea also holding an interest, Villa fans on social media have been discussing, what they feel, is a costly transfer error:
(Image: PA)
@HarveyAVFC: If we stay up , this man needs to be on the shortlist. Looks an absolute joke , would love to have him at vp
@AstonVillaUTV: Can't believe we refused to pay the price for him..
@1874Dan: Benrahma hattrick get ready for the “Get ‘im at moi club”
@AVFCTransTweet: Benrahma hat trick today. The one signing that would have made all the difference for us
@EbreyBrad : Said Benrahma what a player! Go get him Deano. If only we would have bought him to Villa start of this season.
@matty_jeff: Why didn't we buy him again? Knew we'd regret it
@JackDaniel1738: Benrahma.....villa have missed a good player there


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Ghislaine Maxwell will claim she was one of Epstein's victims friend says

Ghislaine Maxwell will tell the FBI she was almost as much a `` victim '' of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein as the teenage and underage girls he abused , a friend has claimed .
The well connected socialite was arrested at her secluded New Hampshire mansion , where she had been hiding from police for several months .
She has been charged with aiding Epstein 's sexual exploitation of young girls - some of whom were underage .
Maxwell is likely to cut a plea bargain deal by cooperating with law enforcement officials .
However it is unlikely she will reveal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her friend Laura Goldman .
Epstein was in police custody when he killed himself last year before facing trial .
One of his victims Virginia Roberts claimed that the billionaire financier forced her to have sex with Prince Andrew at Maxwell 's London townhouse in 2001- which the Prince denies .
Prince Andrew and Maxwell have been friends since university and he supported her during the death of her father , late media tycoon Robert Maxwell in 1991 .
It is through his friendship with Maxwell that Prince Andrew became very friendly with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attorney for the southern district of New York , told a press conference that authorities would `` welcome '' a statement from him .
Ms Goldman , who said she last spoke to Maxwell `` two weeks ago '' also told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that she believed that she was more his victim rather than co-conspirator and accomplice .
In the programme which aired Saturday July 4 , Ms Goldman said : `` I 've told people if she goes to jail , I do n't have a problem if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do believe she was a victim of Jeffrey Epstein .
`` I never saw him berate her but she was always a little afraid of him .
She would say ' I have to go , he 's going to yell at me ' . ''
Asked about the potential for a plea deal Ms Goldman said : `` I think she has to . ''
However , she added that whatever deal Maxwell strikes with the law officials , she would never `` say anything '' about the Duke of York .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ always told me she would never ever say anything about him .
I think she felt he was her friend and she was never going to say anything about him .
`` She felt in the 90s when her father died that Prince Andrew was there for her . ''
Ghislaine Maxwell thought paedophile Jeffrey Epstein would marry her if she `` found him one more girl '' , her friend said .
Former investment banker Goldman also told the radio show that being Epstein 's wife was the ultimate `` prize '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think she thought if she did one more grooming , found him one more girl , he would marry her .
Is that okay ?
No .
`` She honestly thought at the end of the day she would be Mrs Jeffrey Epstein and that was the prize she wanted . ''
Ms Goldman added that Maxwell `` knew she was coming to the end of the road '' .
Ms Goldman said : `` Initially she felt she was going to be fine because of the immunity provision , but I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fuhrer had died .
`` When Jeffrey initially died , she was relieved , she thought it was over . ''
What was the immunity provision for Maxwell ?
The immunity provision that Ms Goldman is referring to was when the net first closed in on Epstein 's crimes way back in 2005 .
At the time , several young women came forward to local police to say they were sexually abused at his home in Palm Beach .
Many of the victims involved provided testimony that implicated Maxwell as someone who encouraged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ undress to have sex with him .
But Epstein cut a controversial plea deal - pleading guilty to two prostitution charges , and receiving a 13 month jail sentence .
In return , he and `` any potential co-conspirators '' including Maxwell were given immunity from all criminal charges .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Ghislaine Maxwell will tell the FBI she was almost as much a "victim" of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein as the teenage and underage girls he abused, a friend has claimed.
The well connected socialite was arrested at her secluded New Hampshire mansion, where she had been hiding from police for several months.
She has been charged with aiding Epstein's sexual exploitation of young girls - some of whom were underage.
Maxwell is likely to cut a plea bargain deal by cooperating with law enforcement officials. However it is unlikely she will reveal anything about Prince Andrew, according to her friend Laura Goldman.
Epstein was in police custody when he killed himself last year before facing trial. One of his victims Virginia Roberts claimed that the billionaire financier forced her to have sex with Prince Andrew at Maxwell's London townhouse in 2001- which the Prince denies.
Prince Andrew and Maxwell have been friends since university and he supported her during the death of her father, late media tycoon Robert Maxwell in 1991.
It is through his friendship with Maxwell that Prince Andrew became very friendly with Epstein.
Audrey Strauss, acting US attorney for the southern district of New York, told a press conference that authorities would "welcome" a statement from him.
Ms Goldman, who said she last spoke to Maxwell "two weeks ago" also told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that she believed that she was more his victim rather than co-conspirator and accomplice.
(Image: ITV)
In the programme which aired Saturday July 4, Ms Goldman said: "I've told people if she goes to jail, I don't have a problem if she's punished. But I honestly do believe she was a victim of Jeffrey Epstein.
"I never saw him berate her but she was always a little afraid of him. She would say 'I have to go, he's going to yell at me'."
Asked about the potential for a plea deal Ms Goldman said: "I think she has to."
However, she added that whatever deal Maxwell strikes with the law officials, she would never "say anything" about the Duke of York.
Ms Goldman said: "She has always told me she would never ever say anything about him. I think she felt he was her friend and she was never going to say anything about him.
"She felt in the 90s when her father died that Prince Andrew was there for her."
Ghislaine Maxwell thought paedophile Jeffrey Epstein would marry her if she "found him one more girl", her friend said.
Former investment banker Goldman also told the radio show that being Epstein's wife was the ultimate "prize" Maxwell desired.
(Image: ITV)
She said: "I think she thought if she did one more grooming, found him one more girl, he would marry her. Is that okay? No.
"She honestly thought at the end of the day she would be Mrs Jeffrey Epstein and that was the prize she wanted."
Ms Goldman added that Maxwell "knew she was coming to the end of the road".
Ms Goldman said: "Initially she felt she was going to be fine because of the immunity provision, but I think in recent months she saw the fuhrer had died.
(Image: PA)
"When Jeffrey initially died, she was relieved, she thought it was over."
What was the immunity provision for Maxwell?
The immunity provision that Ms Goldman is referring to was when the net first closed in on Epstein's crimes way back in 2005.
At the time, several young women came forward to local police to say they were sexually abused at his home in Palm Beach.
Many of the victims involved provided testimony that implicated Maxwell as someone who encouraged them to give Epstein massages and later undress to have sex with him.
But Epstein cut a controversial plea deal - pleading guilty to two prostitution charges, and receiving a 13 month jail sentence.
In return, he and "any potential co-conspirators" including Maxwell were given immunity from all criminal charges.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Wolves team news vs Arsenal: Nuno makes key change for huge clash

Adama Traore has been recalled to Wolverhampton Wanderers ’ starting XI for today ’ s game against Arsenal .
Wolves @ @ @ @ @ successive Premier League win after victories over West Ham , Bournemouth and Aston Villa .
@ @ @ @ @ weekend ’ s game at Villa before replacing Diogo Jota and playing a key role @ @ @ @ @ winner .
That goal was enough for Dendoncker to keep his place with Jota dropping @ @ @ @ @ Traore to return from the start .
Wolves haven ’ t lost to Arsenal under @ @ @ @ @ them 3-1 in this fixture last season .
Wolves need three points to keep pace @ @ @ @ @ with Leicester City , Manchester United and Chelsea also in action today .
Leicester and @ @ @ @ @ over Crystal Palace and Bournemouth respectively at the time of writing , while Chelsea host @ @ @ @ @ January signing Daniel Podence is n't in the squad as Leonardo Campana takes his place @ @ @ @

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Adama Traore has been recalled to Wolverhampton Wanderers’ starting XI for today’s game against Arsenal.
Wolves are going for their fourth successive Premier League win after victories over West Ham, Bournemouth and Aston Villa.
Traore was benched for last weekend’s game at Villa before replacing Diogo Jota and playing a key role in Leander Dendoncker’s winner.
That goal was enough for Dendoncker to keep his place with Jota dropping to the bench to allow Traore to return from the start.
Wolves haven’t lost to Arsenal under Nuno Espirito Santo and beat them 3-1 in this fixture last season.
Wolves need three points to keep pace with the Champions League pack with Leicester City, Manchester United and Chelsea also in action today.
Leicester and United were heading for wins over Crystal Palace and Bournemouth respectively at the time of writing, while Chelsea host relegation-threatened Watford later tonight.
January signing Daniel Podence isn't in the squad as Leonardo Campana takes his place on the bench.
Wolves (3-4-3): Patricio; Boly, Coady, Saiss; Doherty, Dendoncker, Neves, Moutinho, Jonny; Traore, Jimenez
Subs: Ruddy, Buur, Kilman, Vinagre, Jordao, Gibbs-White, Neto, Campana, Jota


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Police and ambulances on Broad Street braced for first night out since lockdown

Emergency services are out in force in the city 's busiest nightspot as they brace themselves for the first evening back on the street since lockdown .
Several ambulances and police vehicles have stationed themselves on Broad Street , Birmingham city centre as thousands of revellers are welcomed back for Super Saturday , July 4 .
Police officers and stewards could be seen patrolling along the normally-bustling strip in preparation of what is expected to be a busy evening .
Mike Olley , the manager of Birmingham 's Broad Street Business Improvement District ( BID ) , previously estimated about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over a 12-hour period .
During the cloudy afternoon , the heart of the city seemed fairly quiet - with the largest queues for any pub seen outside the Wellington as some 20 regulars flocked to support the boozer .
But , Brian Hughes , chairman of the city centre neighbourhood forum , outlined concerns for controlling the volume of people - as he predicted many were saving themselves for later .
`` I think you 'll see a different turnout later , so I 'm concerned that we keep it under control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So far people are behaving very well because I 've been to several local bars and establishments to see how they 're handling it .
Most of them are dealing with bookings only , but they will take walk-ins if there 's room . ''
He also raised concerns over the lack of crossing points as he said this could spell trouble should a fight break out on the strip .
`` One of my bigger concerns is the way that the tram lines have been handled at the minute and the fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I believe could cause flashpoints later when people have had a few drinks .
`` The crossing points were put there for that reason so we would n't have problems and people had somewhere to go if a fight was going on or an altercation , they ca n't at the moment , they 're trapped . ''
The concerns came amid warnings from a West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic not to drink three months of booze in one night .
In a video to advise revellers , Rob Moore , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please remember you do n't need to drink three months worth of alcohol in one night .
`` Try and alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks .
Coronavirus is still a problem , do n't forget the social distancing rules and to wash your hands really regularly .
`` Stick with your mates and have a plan to get home safely , do n't drink and drive .
Whatever you do on your night out know your limits and stay safe , you do n't want to end up in an ambulance like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering Super Saturday in our live blog throughout the day .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Something went wrong, please try again later.
From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Emergency services are out in force in the city's busiest nightspot as they brace themselves for the first evening back on the street since lockdown.
Several ambulances and police vehicles have stationed themselves on Broad Street, Birmingham city centre as thousands of revellers are welcomed back for Super Saturday, July 4.
Police officers and stewards could be seen patrolling along the normally-bustling strip in preparation of what is expected to be a busy evening.
Mike Olley, the manager of Birmingham's Broad Street Business Improvement District (BID), previously estimated about 8,000 would turn out to the street over a 12-hour period.
(Image: Iain Findlay)
During the cloudy afternoon, the heart of the city seemed fairly quiet - with the largest queues for any pub seen outside the Wellington as some 20 regulars flocked to support the boozer.
But, Brian Hughes, chairman of the city centre neighbourhood forum, outlined concerns for controlling the volume of people - as he predicted many were saving themselves for later.
"I think you'll see a different turnout later, so I'm concerned that we keep it under control," he told BirminghamLive.
"So far people are behaving very well because I've been to several local bars and establishments to see how they're handling it. Most of them are dealing with bookings only, but they will take walk-ins if there's room."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
He also raised concerns over the lack of crossing points as he said this could spell trouble should a fight break out on the strip.
"One of my bigger concerns is the way that the tram lines have been handled at the minute and the fact that there's no crossing points which I believe could cause flashpoints later when people have had a few drinks.
"The crossing points were put there for that reason so we wouldn't have problems and people had somewhere to go if a fight was going on or an altercation, they can't at the moment, they're trapped."
(Image: Iain Findlay)
The concerns came amid warnings from a West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic not to drink three months of booze in one night.
In a video to advise revellers, Rob Moore, said: "If you are heading out, please remember you don't need to drink three months worth of alcohol in one night.
"Try and alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks. Coronavirus is still a problem, don't forget the social distancing rules and to wash your hands really regularly.
"Stick with your mates and have a plan to get home safely, don't drink and drive. Whatever you do on your night out know your limits and stay safe, you don't want to end up in an ambulance like this one."
We have been covering Super Saturday in our live blog throughout the day.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Smith gives updates on Konsa, Targett & Guilbert ahead of Liverpool

Aston Villa 's battle against Premier League relegation continues on Sunday , as Dean Smith 's side face a daunting trip to Liverpool .
It 's the Reds ' first game at Anfield since wrapping up the league title , but do come into the game on the back of a 4-0 thumping by Man City .
Villa meanwhile , will be looking to kick-start their fight for survival , after picking up just two points from the first four games following the return of football last month , Smith bemoaned the hectic fixture schedule in the opening portion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full week to prepare for Jurgen Klopp 's champions .
Details : Wesley was carried from the Turf Moor pitch after a heavy tackle by Burnley defender Ben Mee on New Year 's Day .
The striker has since been ruled out for the rest of the campaign , and while he is happy to update fans on his return , it is all eyes on next season , for Villa 's record signing .
What Smith said : When asked how Wesley was progressing , he replied : `` As we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be ready for these 10 games . ''
What Wesley said : “ I do my physio everyday , two times a day , so now I feel confident and I feel great , ” he told VillaTV .
“ I try to do some passing , but sometimes a get a bit of pain , but now the last two or three weeks I feel great.
” Details : The former Burnley stopper had to come off after landing heavily when trying to stop Chris Wood 's header late on at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do his best in rehab , but Smith confirmed the England international is now focusing on returning at the start of next season .
What Smith said : Similarly to Wesley , the Villa boss confirmed , he would n't be available for the final 10 games , as he gave an update on his recovery claiming , `` they won ’ t be ready for these 10 games . ''
What Heaton has said : `` I 'm really pleased with the progress .
It feels solid and stable .
I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up .
“ In reality , it 's going to be a big ask to get back in terms of this season .
“ But I 'm certainly hopeful to be ready to roll by the time the season kicks off next season , whenever that is going to be.
” I 'm really pleased with the progress .
It feels solid and stable .
I 'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Details : The full-back is believed to have tweaked his knee in the hammering at Leicester City , but has been back in full training ahead of the trip to Anfield .
What Smith said : `` Freddie has trained all week and is pushing for a place . ''
What he 's said : `` I follow the ( training ) programme , '' Guilbert explained last month .
`` If I say no , the gaffer will kill me !
I have a specific programme because I have pain on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be present when league restarts . ''
Details : The defender hobbled off in the opening minutes of the defeat to Wolves .
Initially , there were fears he could be out for three weeks , although Smith provided a more positive prognosis .
What Smith said : `` Matt 's injury is n't as bad as we feared as we 're hopeful he 'll be back for Crystal Palace . ''
Details : Konsa has started all four of Villa 's games , post-suspension , but Smith has revealed he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leasing up to Liverpool and is a major doubt .
What Smith said : `` The only one is Ezri Konsa , who had a bit of a whack on the foot and has n't trained as of today but we 're hopeful he will come through . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Aston Villa's battle against Premier League relegation continues on Sunday, as Dean Smith's side face a daunting trip to Liverpool.
It's the Reds' first game at Anfield since wrapping up the league title, but do come into the game on the back of a 4-0 thumping by Man City.
Villa meanwhile, will be looking to kick-start their fight for survival, after picking up just two points from the first four games following the return of football last month,
Smith bemoaned the hectic fixture schedule in the opening portion of the restart, but has now had a full week to prepare for Jurgen Klopp's champions.
Ahead of tomorrow's game here's Villa's injury list in full...
Wesley Moraes
Injury: Knee, anterior cruciate ligament
Details: Wesley was carried from the Turf Moor pitch after a heavy tackle by Burnley defender Ben Mee on New Year's Day. The striker has since been ruled out for the rest of the campaign, and while he is happy to update fans on his return, it is all eyes on next season, for Villa's record signing.
Last match: Wednesday, January 1: Burnley 1-2 Aston Villa
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
What Smith said: When asked how Wesley was progressing, he replied: "As we expected them to but they won’t be ready for these 10 games."
What Wesley said: “I do my physio everyday, two times a day, so now I feel confident and I feel great,” he told VillaTV.
“I try to do some passing, but sometimes a get a bit of pain, but now the last two or three weeks I feel great.”
Expected return: Summer 2020
Tom Heaton
Injury: Knee, anterior cruciate ligament
Details: The former Burnley stopper had to come off after landing heavily when trying to stop Chris Wood's header late on at Turf Moor. Heaton has attempted to do his best in rehab, but Smith confirmed the England international is now focusing on returning at the start of next season.
Last match: Wednesday, January 1: Burnley 1-2 Aston Villa
What Smith said: Similarly to Wesley, the Villa boss confirmed, he wouldn't be available for the final 10 games, as he gave an update on his recovery claiming, "they won’t be ready for these 10 games."
(Image: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
What Heaton has said: "I'm really pleased with the progress. It feels solid and stable. I'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up.
“In reality, it's going to be a big ask to get back in terms of this season.
“But I'm certainly hopeful to be ready to roll by the time the season kicks off next season, whenever that is going to be.”I'm really pleased with the progress. It feels solid and stable. I'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up."
Expected return: Summer 2020
poll loading Will Aston Villa stay up this season? 3000+ VOTES SO FAR Yes mate, keep the faith Nah mate, we're doomed
Frederic Guilbert
Injury: Knee
Details: The full-back is believed to have tweaked his knee in the hammering at Leicester City, but has been back in full training ahead of the trip to Anfield.
Last match: Monday, March 9: Leicester City 4-0 Aston Villa
What Smith said: "Freddie has trained all week and is pushing for a place."
What he's said: "I follow the (training) programme," Guilbert explained last month. "If I say no, the gaffer will kill me! I have a specific programme because I have pain on my knee. I'm working hard to be present when league restarts."
Expected return: Liverpool (a), July 5.
Matt Targett
Injury: Hamstring
Details: The defender hobbled off in the opening minutes of the defeat to Wolves. Initially, there were fears he could be out for three weeks, although Smith provided a more positive prognosis.
(Image: Getty Images)
Last match: Saturday, June 27: Aston Villa 0-1 Wolves
What Smith said: "Matt's injury isn't as bad as we feared as we're hopeful he'll be back for Crystal Palace."
Expected return: Crystal Palace (H), July 12.
Ezri Konsa
Injury: Bruised foot
Details: Konsa has started all four of Villa's games, post-suspension, but Smith has revealed he has been out of training in the week leading up to Liverpool and is a major doubt.
What Smith said: "The only one is Ezri Konsa, who had a bit of a whack on the foot and hasn't trained as of today but we're hopeful he will come through."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--'The ace up Nuno's sleeve' - The key role Traore will play vs Arsenal

Since the restart of Premier League football , Wolves have a flawless 100 % win record .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's team have beaten West Ham , Bournemouth and Aston Villa and now sit within touching distance of a spot in next season 's Champions League .
A key contributor to the campaign that Wolves are experiencing has been Adama Traore , with the Spaniard becoming renowned for his dribbling and his almost unstoppable ability to carry the ball .
Interestingly , though , the 24 year-old has accumulated just 128 minutes on the pitch from a possible 270 since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 50 % of the time , yet he 's still managed to have an influence that is worth talking about .
However , once analysing how he 's been used by Nuno , the possibility of his usage being strategic and tactical becomes feasible .
Adama is an explosive player .
He 's capable of travelling from zero to 100 in a second , which is mostly why opponents either have to make a foul or simply let him progress once he attempts to carry possession towards goal .
Of all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amassed over 1,500 minutes on the field , Adama places top for dribbles completed per 90 with an average of 11.8 .
That figure is notably more than second-placed Allan Saint-Maximin who posts 8.2 per 90 , and it captures his impact .
Wolves have n't conceded a goal since football resumed , keeping a clean sheet in every match with Adama introduced as a substitute on the 60th minute at Villa Park , and the 64th minute away to West Ham when the scores were level .
Wolves opened the scoring inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field in both matches , allowing the team to close proceedings comfortably before picking up three points .
Rather than Adama not being good enough to start , Nuno instead appears to be using him as a game-changer in away contests .
The Spanish forward is the trump card .
The ace up Nuno 's sleeve .
For the home clash against Bournemouth , Adama was used from the beginning before being taken off on the 77th minute .
Perhaps Nuno felt more obliged to essentially attack with greater intent at Molineux as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role of the visitors ?
Adama registered an assist nine minutes after being introduced against the Hammers and , although he did n't directly supply the goal against Villa , he was involved in the move beforehand .
As Wolves advanced up the field , Tyrone Mings roamed from his position to handle him moments after being pictured stating to his teammate Neil Taylor that Adama was 'on his way ' as he prepared to come on as a substitute .
The attention that Adama 's presence demanded resulted in a gap emerging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Castro ran into before setting up Leander Dendocker to finish .
If Traore was still on the bench , would Mings have charged out as energetically as he did ?
Throughout the campaign , Nuno tactical usage of Adama 's skill set has been highly effective , with the clash against Manchester City at the Etihad acting as a perfect example .
He was initially deployed as a right wing-back , acting as an outlet for his team by driving up the field towards the final third and relieving the pressure that City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After 70 minutes of admirable defending with the scores level at 0-0 , Matt Doherty was brought on , allowing Nuno to move the speedster alongside Raul Jimenez to play as a centre-forward .
The desperation of Pep Guardiola 's side to find a goal ended up proving to be costly , as they committed men forward but conceded twice from counterattacks in the final 15 minutes with Adama scoring both .
When he 's encouraged to simply do what he 's good at , he 's a force to be reckoned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a weekly as he effortlessly beats defenders and crosses from the byline .
Jimenez is usually on the receiving end of those deliveries , with Adama registering nine assists in the Premier League this season .
His performances have resulted in speculation linking him with a move to Liverpool and Manchester United but , if he was to transfer , those tasked with getting the best out of him need only analyse how Nuno has applied - and utilised - his qualities .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Since the restart of Premier League football, Wolves have a flawless 100% win record. Nuno Espirito Santo's team have beaten West Ham, Bournemouth and Aston Villa and now sit within touching distance of a spot in next season's Champions League.
A key contributor to the campaign that Wolves are experiencing has been Adama Traore, with the Spaniard becoming renowned for his dribbling and his almost unstoppable ability to carry the ball.
Interestingly, though, the 24 year-old has accumulated just 128 minutes on the pitch from a possible 270 since the return. He's featured less than 50% of the time, yet he's still managed to have an influence that is worth talking about.
However, once analysing how he's been used by Nuno, the possibility of his usage being strategic and tactical becomes feasible.
Adama is an explosive player. He's capable of travelling from zero to 100 in a second, which is mostly why opponents either have to make a foul or simply let him progress once he attempts to carry possession towards goal.
Of all the players in England's top-flight who have amassed over 1,500 minutes on the field, Adama places top for dribbles completed per 90 with an average of 11.8. That figure is notably more than second-placed Allan Saint-Maximin who posts 8.2 per 90, and it captures his impact.
Wolves haven't conceded a goal since football resumed, keeping a clean sheet in every match with Adama introduced as a substitute on the 60th minute at Villa Park, and the 64th minute away to West Ham when the scores were level.
Wolves opened the scoring inside 10 minutes of Adama being on the field in both matches, allowing the team to close proceedings comfortably before picking up three points.
Rather than Adama not being good enough to start, Nuno instead appears to be using him as a game-changer in away contests. The Spanish forward is the trump card. The ace up Nuno's sleeve.
For the home clash against Bournemouth, Adama was used from the beginning before being taken off on the 77th minute. Perhaps Nuno felt more obliged to essentially attack with greater intent at Molineux as opposed to when his team assume the role of the visitors?
Adama registered an assist nine minutes after being introduced against the Hammers and, although he didn't directly supply the goal against Villa, he was involved in the move beforehand.
As Wolves advanced up the field, Tyrone Mings roamed from his position to handle him moments after being pictured stating to his teammate Neil Taylor that Adama was 'on his way' as he prepared to come on as a substitute.
The attention that Adama's presence demanded resulted in a gap emerging in Villa's defence, which Jonny Castro ran into before setting up Leander Dendocker to finish.
If Traore was still on the bench, would Mings have charged out as energetically as he did?
Throughout the campaign, Nuno tactical usage of Adama's skill set has been highly effective, with the clash against Manchester City at the Etihad acting as a perfect example.
He was initially deployed as a right wing-back, acting as an outlet for his team by driving up the field towards the final third and relieving the pressure that City wanted to maintain on the Wolves defence.
After 70 minutes of admirable defending with the scores level at 0-0, Matt Doherty was brought on, allowing Nuno to move the speedster alongside Raul Jimenez to play as a centre-forward.
The desperation of Pep Guardiola's side to find a goal ended up proving to be costly, as they committed men forward but conceded twice from counterattacks in the final 15 minutes with Adama scoring both.
When he's encouraged to simply do what he's good at, he's a force to be reckoned with, and that is evidenced on a weekly as he effortlessly beats defenders and crosses from the byline.
Jimenez is usually on the receiving end of those deliveries, with Adama registering nine assists in the Premier League this season.
His performances have resulted in speculation linking him with a move to Liverpool and Manchester United but, if he was to transfer, those tasked with getting the best out of him need only analyse how Nuno has applied - and utilised - his qualities.


birminghammail--2020-07-05--The Super Saturday night that Broad Street behaved itself

It was the day when the city centre came out of lockdown and nobody knew quite what to expect .
But with no arrests , no assaults and no drunken casualties for medics to deal with on busy Broad Street as of 10.30pm on 'Super Saturday ' , the city 's hard-pressed emergency services will be hoping it 's a sign of things to come .
The NHS in particular has been under siege since March dealing with thousands of deaths and illnesses caused by Covid-19 .
So staff and local business leaders were on tenterhooks after Prime Minister Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to open on July 4 .
In the event the night passed off quietly .
Brum City Centre Police tweeted : `` A big thank you to all the bars and clubs , partners and especially the customers for making tonight 's late shift an absolute pleasure .
Long may it last .
Southside BID manager Julia Robinson said said that just one in four Southside and Chinatown businesses would ready to open on July 4 with more to follow during the summer .
In the end the district recorded 5,000 visitors with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hairdressers there .
Just two people needed help after intoxication early in the morning and they were assisted by SJA volunteers in Safe Space .
Julia said today : `` We were so thrilled with how it all went yesterday .
`` Everyone realised how things have changed so people were out at 3pm , not 3am , and some were even carrying brollies .
`` Everything went really well to the point we have n't had a lot of mess to clear up today either .
`` Staff were just as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who patiently coped with everything from having their temperatures checked to sanitiser points , having to wait extra time to be served and coping with the new apps for ordering and paying .
`` I am really proud of all of our customers - we all held our breath about what would happen then realised we 're a sensible lot of Brummies ! ''
Westside BID manager Mike Olley had forecast there would be 8,000 revellers visiting Broad Street on the city 's golden mile .
In the end , he was proved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the total number of recorded visits .
During the day , the area swallowed up the numbers so it never looked busy .
Mike said : `` Saturday was a fine day where around 8,000 people attended the area .
All our venues that opened had good social distancing guidelines in place which respected COVID-19 risks and worked well .
“ It was all very different to what we are used to but it was effective in protecting staff and visitors .
There were of course a couple of individuals who took things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with and there were no arrests as far as we understand .
`` We had hoped that things would go well and we were not disappointed .
It was a good starting point and things can only get better.
” Chief Superintendent Steve Graham , police commander with West Midlands Police said : `` It ’ s been difficult for many businesses recently , it was great to see them open again and people out having a good time , while being sensible and observing the social distancing measures that are in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal responsibility for their actions and behaviour and the evening ran smoothly with only a handful of incidents at pubs and bars reported to us .
“ Three arrests were made following reports of a disorder at a pub in Sandwell and one person was arrested to prevent a breach of the peace in Birmingham .
“ Our officers were on hand to assist designated premises supervisors and security teams .
We were impressed with the compliance of the majority of people who came out to enjoy the eagerly awaited reopening of pubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towns , thank you to everyone who played their part in keeping us all safe .
“ It was a busy evening , with lots of people deciding to host house or street parties or visit their locals pubs instead of heading into those in our larger cities and towns .
Sadly some of these resulted in police being called following complaints about drunken behaviour , noise nuisance and fighting .
“ Lockdown has been tough for everyone ; while we understand that people were excited about the easing of restrictions , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pockets of disorder and violence on our streets .
`` This is not acceptable and we ’ re doing all we can to find and deal with those responsible .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Something went wrong, please try again later.
From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
It was the day when the city centre came out of lockdown and nobody knew quite what to expect.
But with no arrests, no assaults and no drunken casualties for medics to deal with on busy Broad Street as of 10.30pm on ' Super Saturday ', the city's hard-pressed emergency services will be hoping it's a sign of things to come.
The NHS in particular has been under siege since March dealing with thousands of deaths and illnesses caused by Covid-19.
So staff and local business leaders were on tenterhooks after Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave the green light for pubs to open on July 4.
In the event the night passed off quietly.
Brum City Centre Police tweeted: "A big thank you to all the bars and clubs, partners and especially the customers for making tonight's late shift an absolute pleasure. Long may it last.
(Image: Westside BID)
View from Southside and Chinatown
Southside BID manager Julia Robinson said said that just one in four Southside and Chinatown businesses would ready to open on July 4 with more to follow during the summer.
In the end the district recorded 5,000 visitors with 1,500 said to have visited the barbers and hairdressers there.
Just two people needed help after intoxication early in the morning and they were assisted by SJA volunteers in Safe Space.
Julia said today: "We were so thrilled with how it all went yesterday.
"Everyone realised how things have changed so people were out at 3pm, not 3am, and some were even carrying brollies.
"Everything went really well to the point we haven't had a lot of mess to clear up today either.
"Staff were just as happy to be back as the customers who patiently coped with everything from having their temperatures checked to sanitiser points, having to wait extra time to be served and coping with the new apps for ordering and paying.
"I am really proud of all of our customers - we all held our breath about what would happen then realised we're a sensible lot of Brummies!"
(Image: Iain Findlay)
View from Broad Street
Westside BID manager Mike Olley had forecast there would be 8,000 revellers visiting Broad Street on the city's golden mile.
In the end, he was proved to be spot on as that is the total number of recorded visits.
During the day, the area swallowed up the numbers so it never looked busy.
Mike said: "Saturday was a fine day where around 8,000 people attended the area. All our venues that opened had good social distancing guidelines in place which respected COVID-19 risks and worked well.
“It was all very different to what we are used to but it was effective in protecting staff and visitors. There were of course a couple of individuals who took things to excess but they were professionally dealt with and there were no arrests as far as we understand.
"We had hoped that things would go well and we were not disappointed. It was a good starting point and things can only get better.”
The police view
Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, police commander with West Midlands Police said: "It’s been difficult for many businesses recently, it was great to see them open again and people out having a good time, while being sensible and observing the social distancing measures that are in place.
“We saw people taking great personal responsibility for their actions and behaviour and the evening ran smoothly with only a handful of incidents at pubs and bars reported to us.
“Three arrests were made following reports of a disorder at a pub in Sandwell and one person was arrested to prevent a breach of the peace in Birmingham.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
“Our officers were on hand to assist designated premises supervisors and security teams. We were impressed with the compliance of the majority of people who came out to enjoy the eagerly awaited reopening of pubs and bars within our vibrant cities and towns, thank you to everyone who played their part in keeping us all safe.
“It was a busy evening, with lots of people deciding to host house or street parties or visit their locals pubs instead of heading into those in our larger cities and towns. Sadly some of these resulted in police being called following complaints about drunken behaviour, noise nuisance and fighting.
“Lockdown has been tough for everyone; while we understand that people were excited about the easing of restrictions, it’s a shame we saw some pockets of disorder and violence on our streets.
"This is not acceptable and we’re doing all we can to find and deal with those responsible.”


birminghammail--2020-07-05--Jamie Redknapp wades in as Wolves Champions League place

Wolves will miss out on next season ’ s Champions League , That ’ s according to pundit Jamie Redknapp who believes the fixtures favour the teams currently sitting in qualifying spots .
The former Liverpool and Spurs midfielder described Manchester United ’ s remaining games as a ‘ dream ’ - and also tipped Leicester to turn yesterday ’ s win over Crystal Palace into top four momentum .
Speaking on Sky Sports , Redknapp said : “ Chelsea ’ s fixtures certainly look winnable .
They ’ ve got two tricky fixtures – Liverpool away and then Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well .
“ Manchester United have got dream fixtures up to Leicester City away .
Leicester ’ s fixtures are difficult .
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here “ If you could have anyone ’ s fixtures there you ’ d probably choose Manchester United ’ s right now .
“ I think Manchester United [ are in pole position ] , looking at those fixtures and with the form they ’ re in .
You look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fernandes has made at that club , it ’ s been phenomenal .
“ I think it will be Manchester United , Chelsea and then Leicester.
” Leicester are currently third on 58 points , Chelsea are fourth with 57 and United fifth on 55 .
That means Wolves would miss out , not helped by having lost ground following Saturday ’ s defeat to Arsenal .
Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s men are sixth on 52 points - potentially only three from a qualifying place if Manchester City ’ s ban is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Everton , Burnley and Palace to play before visiting Stamford Bridge on the final day of the season .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Wolves will miss out on next season’s Champions League,
That’s according to pundit Jamie Redknapp who believes the fixtures favour the teams currently sitting in qualifying spots.
The former Liverpool and Spurs midfielder described Manchester United’s remaining games as a ‘dream’ - and also tipped Leicester to turn yesterday’s win over Crystal Palace into top four momentum.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp said: “Chelsea’s fixtures certainly look winnable. They’ve got two tricky fixtures – Liverpool away and then Wolves at home could be a big one as well.
“Manchester United have got dream fixtures up to Leicester City away. Leicester’s fixtures are difficult.
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
“If you could have anyone’s fixtures there you’d probably choose Manchester United’s right now.
“I think Manchester United [are in pole position], looking at those fixtures and with the form they’re in. You look at Mason Greenwood and the impact Bruno Fernandes has made at that club, it’s been phenomenal.
“I think it will be Manchester United, Chelsea and then Leicester.”
Leicester are currently third on 58 points, Chelsea are fourth with 57 and United fifth on 55.
That means Wolves would miss out, not helped by having lost ground following Saturday’s defeat to Arsenal.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s men are sixth on 52 points - potentially only three from a qualifying place if Manchester City’s ban is upheld.
They still have Sheffield United, Everton, Burnley and Palace to play before visiting Stamford Bridge on the final day of the season.


birminghammail--2020-07-05--Mass flu immunisation required this winter NHS England boss warns

The biggest flu immunisation programme the UK has ever seen will have to be carried out this winter , the boss of NHS England has warned .
Sir Simon Stevens told The Andrew Marr show today ( July 5 ) : “ I think we 're going to need the biggest ever flu immunisation season we 've ever had.
” Sir Simon who was speaking on the NHS 's 72nd birthday , said people needed to get the flu vaccine as a way to ease pressure on the health service in the colder months - when Covid 19 is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Medics already predict a second , third wave and fourth wave .
Shabi Ahmad , a consultant surgeon in urology at Sandwell Hospital said `` The virus is going to keep rotating through various ways and means .
`` We just need to learn to protect ourselves . ''
Sir Simon told Andrew Marr the deadly bug had taken its toll on social care in the UK and adequate preparations need to be made to cope for further cases .
He said : `` If any good is to come from this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way social care works in this country .
The Mirror reports there was over 66,000 deaths of care home residents in England and Wales between March 2 and June 12 this year , compared to just under 37,000 deaths last year .
While 20,000 mentioned Covid-19 on the death certificate , another 10,000 of the excess deaths were registered to other , non-Covid , causes .
Speaking on the Andrew Marr show , Mr Stevens added that a vaccine could be ready before December this year but `` tens of thousands of NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to use it - before it was accessible to the public .
Companies Glaxo Smith Kline and Sanofi will begin human trials of their vaccine in September .
If successful , the government is looking to sign a £500million deal for 60 million doses .
To mark the NHS 's anniversary today , clap for our carers will be returning today at 5pm .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
The biggest flu immunisation programme the UK has ever seen will have to be carried out this winter, the boss of NHS England has warned.
Sir Simon Stevens told The Andrew Marr show today (July 5): “I think we're going to need the biggest ever flu immunisation season we've ever had.”
Sir Simon who was speaking on the NHS's 72nd birthday, said people needed to get the flu vaccine as a way to ease pressure on the health service in the colder months - when Covid 19 is likely to be in heavy circulation again.
Medics already predict a second, third wave and fourth wave.
Shabi Ahmad, a consultant surgeon in urology at Sandwell Hospital said "The virus is going to keep rotating through various ways and means.
"We just need to learn to protect ourselves."
Sir Simon told Andrew Marr the deadly bug had taken its toll on social care in the UK and adequate preparations need to be made to cope for further cases.
He said: "If any good is to come from this, we must properly resource and reform the way social care works in this country.
(Image: Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
The Mirror reports there was over 66,000 deaths of care home residents in England and Wales between March 2 and June 12 this year, compared to just under 37,000 deaths last year.
While 20,000 mentioned Covid-19 on the death certificate, another 10,000 of the excess deaths were registered to other, non-Covid, causes.
Speaking on the Andrew Marr show, Mr Stevens added that a vaccine could be ready before December this year but " tens of thousands of NHS staff" would have to be trained up to use it - before it was accessible to the public.
Companies Glaxo Smith Kline and Sanofi will begin human trials of their vaccine in September. If successful, the government is looking to sign a £500million deal for 60 million doses.
To mark the NHS's anniversary today, clap for our carers will be returning today at 5pm.


birminghammail--2020-07-05--Car flips and smashes onto roof as 'occupants flee'

This was the dramatic scene after a car veered off a city road , flipped and smashed onto its roof in an early hours crash .
The silver vehicle was left crumpled on a grass verge beside Fox Hollies Road , Sutton Coldfield after the collision on Sunday morning , July 5 .
It had swerved off the road , near to the junction of Harvington Way , before colliding with a road sign and coming to rest on its roof at around 4.20am .
Emergency services were called to the street - but two occupants who were believed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fled .
A third had managed to free himself from the overturned wreckage and was treated by paramedics at the scene .
A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said : `` We were called to Fox Hollies Road , Sutton , junction with Harvington Way .
Crews from Sutton and Erdington attended .
`` The call came in at 4.20am this morning from West Midlands Ambulance Service reporting RTC with potentially three patients .
`` Ambulance confirmed multiple roll over .
Crew was assigned at 4.21am in attendance 4.26am , so within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle in collision with road sign which had come to rest on its roof .
One male self-extricated before fire service arrived , he was being treated by the ambulance service .
`` Two other males believed to be in vehicle fled scene prior to fire service arrival .
Ambulance and police were in attendance .
Vehicle made safe by fire service and highways requested to make road sign safe . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our free email alerts for the top MySuttonColdfield stories sent straight to your e-mail
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our free email alerts for the top MySuttonColdfield stories sent straight to your e-mail
This was the dramatic scene after a Jaguar veered off a city road, flipped and smashed onto its roof in an early hours crash.
The silver vehicle was left crumpled on a grass verge beside Fox Hollies Road, Sutton Coldfield after the collision on Sunday morning, July 5.
It had swerved off the road, near to the junction of Harvington Way, before colliding with a road sign and coming to rest on its roof at around 4.20am.
Emergency services were called to the street - but two occupants who were in the vehicle had already fled.
(Image: WMFS)
Police said two people who were later found with injuries were in hospital on Sunday morning for treatment.
A third had managed to free himself from the overturned wreckage and was treated by paramedics at the scene.
A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said: "We were called to Fox Hollies Road, Sutton, junction with Harvington Way. Crews from Sutton and Erdington attended.
"The call came in at 4.20am this morning from West Midlands Ambulance Service reporting RTC with potentially three patients.
"Ambulance confirmed multiple roll over. Crew was assigned at 4.21am in attendance 4.26am, so within five minutes.
(Image: WMFS)
"Incident involved one vehicle in collision with road sign which had come to rest on its roof. One male self-extricated before fire service arrived, he was being treated by the ambulance service.
"Two other males believed to be in vehicle fled scene prior to fire service arrival. Ambulance and police were in attendance. Vehicle made safe by fire service and highways requested to make road sign safe."