birminghammail--2020-09-23--Wolves and Nelson Semedo - Dissecting the deal

It has been a summer of change at Wolverhampton Wanderers .
After successive seventh-place finishes in the Premier League , Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s side have lost key players in Diogo Jota and Matt Doherty , who have moved to Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur respectively .
The Black Country side have , however , acquired some interesting new recruits as they look to challenge for European football once again .
Promising striker Fabio Silva has joined from Porto , Marcal has arrived from Lyon while Vitinha , another youngster from Porto , was drafted in on a season-long loan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Liverpool as part of the deal that saw Jota join the Premier League champions .
And while Santo should be able to cover Jota ’ s absence with Daniel Podence and Neto , Doherty ’ s departure has seen Adam Traore fill in at right wing-back .
It is hardly surprising , then , that Wolves have signed Nelson Semedo , a right-sided defender who Ronald Koeman decided he could do without at Barcelona .
Wolves have captured Semedo in a deal thought to be around £34.8million .
For Semedo , signing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Having starred for Benfica , his progress at the Camp Nou has been far from serene since joining Barca in 2017 .
The Portuguese full-back ’ s transition in Catalonia was slow , with Sergi Roberto preferred on the right side of the defence by Ernesto Valverde .
While Semedo was a more natural fit for that position , Roberto - who was reared in Barca ’ s academy - was accustomed to the club ’ s style of play .
As a result , Semedo started only 17 La Liga games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the following year .
Having been a bit-part player under Valverde , Semedo enjoyed something of a renaissance during Quique Setien ’ s brief tenure .
The full-back starred in Setien ’ s third game in charge , notching an assist for Antoine Griezmann as Barca eased past Leganes 5-0 in the Copa del Rey round of 16 .
That kick-started an extended run in the first-team , with Semedo starting a further 18 games between then and the end of the season in August .
Given he ’ s set to replace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 26-year-old to the Irishman .
As you can see below from Wyscout ’ s heat maps , Semedo is active in the attacking third , which is not all that surprising for a Barcelona full-back .
However , it ’ s interesting that he appears to have been even more active than Doherty in and around the opposition penalty area .
Given Doherty ’ s reputation as one of the Premier League ’ s most effective attacking wing-backs , this bodes well for how Semedo will adapt to Nuno ’ s system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frequent dribbler than Doherty , who is known more for his excellent movement off the ball , with 4.42 attempted take-ons compared to 1.94 .
A particularly striking example of Semedo ’ s pace and penetrative running can be seen in the below screenshots , taken from Barca ’ s El Clasico defeat by Real Madrid in March .
When Barca come out from the back , Semedo ’ s first instinct is to drive into the space left by Marcelo .
Even though the pass is an inviting one , it still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to win the ball .
However , with a brilliant combination of speed and strength , Semedo shrugs the Real captain of the ball and charges towards the box .
The only thing lacking was the end product .
With Antoine Griezmann darting into space behind Raphael Varane , Semedo decides to cut back to Arturo Vidal on the edge of the area , only for Dani Carvajal to read his move and intercept .
Statistically , Semedo is not nearly as productive as Doherty in the final third , with three goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to the Republic of Ireland international ’ s seven ( 4G , 3A ) in their respective 2019/20 league campaigns .
Overall , Semedo managed 14 shot assists for Barca in all competitions last season , which looks light compared to Doherty ’ s 27 for Wolves , so the Portugal international does have some way to go before he can replicate his predecessor ’ s influence .
One area in which Semedo could improve is his crossing .
For a player who is adept at charging into space in the opponent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low as 90th in La Liga in the last calendar year for deep completed crosses with just 0.24 per 90 .
With Raul Jimenez ’ s aerial threat , Semedo would need to sharpen up his end product .
However , as we have seen with Traore in the last couple of years , Nuno is more than capable of turning a largely wasteful wide player into a largely devastating one .
Repeat the trick with Semedo and Wolves would have a brilliant outlet at right wing-back once more .
Semedo ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to why Wolves are interested .
As per Wyscout , in the last calendar year he ranks 16th in offensive duels but also 30th in defensive duels .
He also ranked just outside the top 10 for progressive runs in La Liga with 2.4 per 90 .
As an enterprising presence on the flank , Semedo ’ s potential arrival raises a couple of intriguing questions regarding Nuno ’ s set-up .
Given his price tag , Semedo would be expected to start , and assuming Nuno chooses to deploy a three-man defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into right wing-back .
That would potentially free Traore up to join the right-hand side of the attack , with Daniel Podence possibly switching to the left and Raul Jimenez through the middle .
Alternatively , with a three-man defence and two wing-backs , Santo could switch to a 3-5-2 with Traore and Jimenez up top together and a midfield of Ruben Neves , Joao Moutinho and Leander Dendoncker .
It remains to be seen how Nuno shapes his squad , but crucially , Semedo ’ s introduction would lift the defensive burden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times filling at wing-back against Manchester City , and give the Old Gold the natural long-term replacement for Doherty they clearly need .

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It has been a summer of change at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
After successive seventh-place finishes in the Premier League, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have lost key players in Diogo Jota and Matt Doherty, who have moved to Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur respectively.
The Black Country side have, however, acquired some interesting new recruits as they look to challenge for European football once again.
Promising striker Fabio Silva has joined from Porto, Marcal has arrived from Lyon while Vitinha, another youngster from Porto, was drafted in on a season-long loan.
Wolves also snapped up Ki-Jana Hoever from Liverpool as part of the deal that saw Jota join the Premier League champions.
And while Santo should be able to cover Jota’s absence with Daniel Podence and Neto, Doherty’s departure has seen Adam Traore fill in at right wing-back.
It is hardly surprising, then, that Wolves have signed Nelson Semedo, a right-sided defender who Ronald Koeman decided he could do without at Barcelona.
Wolves have captured Semedo in a deal thought to be around £34.8million.
For Semedo, signing for Wolves offers the chance for redemption. Having starred for Benfica, his progress at the Camp Nou has been far from serene since joining Barca in 2017.
The Portuguese full-back’s transition in Catalonia was slow, with Sergi Roberto preferred on the right side of the defence by Ernesto Valverde.
While Semedo was a more natural fit for that position, Roberto - who was reared in Barca’s academy - was accustomed to the club’s style of play.
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As a result, Semedo started only 17 La Liga games during the 2017/18 season, and 20 the following year.
Having been a bit-part player under Valverde, Semedo enjoyed something of a renaissance during Quique Setien’s brief tenure.
The full-back starred in Setien’s third game in charge, notching an assist for Antoine Griezmann as Barca eased past Leganes 5-0 in the Copa del Rey round of 16.
That kick-started an extended run in the first-team, with Semedo starting a further 18 games between then and the end of the season in August.
Given he’s set to replace Doherty, it seems prudent to compare the 26-year-old to the Irishman.
As you can see below from Wyscout’s heat maps, Semedo is active in the attacking third, which is not all that surprising for a Barcelona full-back.
However, it’s interesting that he appears to have been even more active than Doherty in and around the opposition penalty area.
Given Doherty’s reputation as one of the Premier League’s most effective attacking wing-backs, this bodes well for how Semedo will adapt to Nuno’s system.
Semedo is also a much more frequent dribbler than Doherty, who is known more for his excellent movement off the ball, with 4.42 attempted take-ons compared to 1.94.
A particularly striking example of Semedo’s pace and penetrative running can be seen in the below screenshots, taken from Barca’s El Clasico defeat by Real Madrid in March.
When Barca come out from the back, Semedo’s first instinct is to drive into the space left by Marcelo.
Even though the pass is an inviting one, it still looks as though Sergio Ramos is favourite to win the ball.
However, with a brilliant combination of speed and strength, Semedo shrugs the Real captain of the ball and charges towards the box.
The only thing lacking was the end product. With Antoine Griezmann darting into space behind Raphael Varane, Semedo decides to cut back to Arturo Vidal on the edge of the area, only for Dani Carvajal to read his move and intercept.
Statistically, Semedo is not nearly as productive as Doherty in the final third, with three goal involvements (1G, 2A), compared to the Republic of Ireland international’s seven (4G, 3A) in their respective 2019/20 league campaigns.
Overall, Semedo managed 14 shot assists for Barca in all competitions last season, which looks light compared to Doherty’s 27 for Wolves, so the Portugal international does have some way to go before he can replicate his predecessor’s influence.
One area in which Semedo could improve is his crossing. For a player who is adept at charging into space in the opponent’s half, he ranked as low as 90th in La Liga in the last calendar year for deep completed crosses with just 0.24 per 90.
With Raul Jimenez’s aerial threat, Semedo would need to sharpen up his end product. However, as we have seen with Traore in the last couple of years, Nuno is more than capable of turning a largely wasteful wide player into a largely devastating one.
Repeat the trick with Semedo and Wolves would have a brilliant outlet at right wing-back once more.
Semedo’s other underlying data offers more insight as to why Wolves are interested. As per Wyscout, in the last calendar year he ranks 16th in offensive duels but also 30th in defensive duels. He also ranked just outside the top 10 for progressive runs in La Liga with 2.4 per 90.
As an enterprising presence on the flank, Semedo’s potential arrival raises a couple of intriguing questions regarding Nuno’s set-up.
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Given his price tag, Semedo would be expected to start, and assuming Nuno chooses to deploy a three-man defence, the former Benfica star would slot into right wing-back.
That would potentially free Traore up to join the right-hand side of the attack, with Daniel Podence possibly switching to the left and Raul Jimenez through the middle.
Alternatively, with a three-man defence and two wing-backs, Santo could switch to a 3-5-2 with Traore and Jimenez up top together and a midfield of Ruben Neves, Joao Moutinho and Leander Dendoncker.
It remains to be seen how Nuno shapes his squad, but crucially, Semedo’s introduction would lift the defensive burden on Traore, who looked uncomfortable at times filling at wing-back against Manchester City, and give the Old Gold the natural long-term replacement for Doherty they clearly need.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Radical new scheme could replace furlough and save thousands of jobs

Hopes have risen that the outgoing furlough scheme could be replaced with a new wage subsidy scheme .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced the furlough scheme - the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme - in March , at the height of the pandemic .
The Covid-19 crisis caused millions to work from home , with industries hit hard by the changes to the way we live .
Thousands of job losses have been announced amid the coronavirus pandemic - with the furlough scheme offering relief to millions .
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed the scheme will wind down this month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunak ruled out extending it - fearing employers could become `` addicted '' to it .
Reports are now mounting that Brits could switch to a 'short working time ' scheme , where they work 50 % or 60 % of normal hours and have the rest paid by the government .
The Guardian now reports Mr Sunak is looking at a scheme like in Germany , where workers are kept on shorter hours .
Furlough will officially come to an end on October 31 with the Treasury previously confirming it would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wade subsidy scheme would perhaps save thousands of jobs , amid fears employers could cut workers in the wake of the scheme 's end .
The Trades Union Congress ( TUC ) , which outlined its furlough replacement proposal last month , said the Government must `` fast-track a new plan '' to protect jobs .
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said : `` We have published detailed proposals for a new short-time working and upskilling scheme .
`` With the right approach we can stop mass unemployment scarring millions .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ let 's get around the table and fast-track a new plan . ''
The furlough scheme has cost the Government £39.3 billion to date , with £3.9 billion between August 16 and September 20 alone , according to the latest figures .
More than £13 billion has been handed to firms and workers through five different Government support schemes in the last month .

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Hopes have risen that the outgoing furlough scheme could be replaced with a new wage subsidy scheme.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced the furlough scheme - the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme - in March, at the height of the pandemic.
The Covid-19 crisis caused millions to work from home, with industries hit hard by the changes to the way we live.
Thousands of job losses have been announced amid the coronavirus pandemic - with the furlough scheme offering relief to millions.
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed the scheme will wind down this month, before ending entirely in October.
Mr Sunak ruled out extending it - fearing employers could become "addicted" to it.
Reports are now mounting that Brits could switch to a 'short working time' scheme, where they work 50% or 60% of normal hours and have the rest paid by the government.
The Guardian now reports Mr Sunak is looking at a scheme like in Germany, where workers are kept on shorter hours.
Furlough will officially come to an end on October 31 with the Treasury previously confirming it would not have an extension.
The move for a wade subsidy scheme would perhaps save thousands of jobs, amid fears employers could cut workers in the wake of the scheme's end.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC), which outlined its furlough replacement proposal last month, said the Government must "fast-track a new plan" to protect jobs.
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "We have published detailed proposals for a new short-time working and upskilling scheme.
"With the right approach we can stop mass unemployment scarring millions.
"My message to ministers is clear: let's get around the table and fast-track a new plan."
(Image: PA)
The Treasury declined to comment.
The furlough scheme has cost the Government £39.3 billion to date, with £3.9 billion between August 16 and September 20 alone, according to the latest figures.
More than £13 billion has been handed to firms and workers through five different Government support schemes in the last month.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Liverpool drop out of Ismaila Sarr race handing Aston Villa boost - report

Liverpool opted to sign Diogo Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers instead of Watford winger Ismaila Sarr , according to reports .
The Athletic say Jurgen Klopp 's Premier League champions had the choice of the two players but decided to go for Jota , who signed for around £45 million from Wolves over the weekend .
It was reported yesterday by website France Football that , while Liverpool and Watford had agreed a fee between €35-40m for the transfer of the Senegal international , Villa could swoop and offer him first-choice football .
Sarr , who was Watford 's record signing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last summer , would struggle to dislodge Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah on the wings at Anfield and might fare better in terms of regular game-time elsewhere .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Play Store and App Store Villa head coach Dean Smith has spent the summer revamping his options up front , with Ollie Watkins and Bertrand Traore arriving from Brentford and Olympique Lyon respectively .
Mbwana Samatta looks set for the exit , with rumours persisting about a loan transfer to Fenerbahce , while Wesley Moraes remains out until the New Year with a serious knee injury .
Sarr , who operates primarily on the right wing , scored five goals and set up six for his team-mates in 28 games in the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After Monday night 's 1-0 defeat of Sheffield United at Villa Park , Smith said the door remains open for more arrivals into B6 .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' Quite possibly , '' the Villa boss when quizzed on incoming transfers .
`` I 'm still discussing with Christian ( Purslow ) and Johan ( Lange ) about getting some more in but we 'll have to see . ''
Manchester United , Everton and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sarr .

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Liverpool opted to sign Diogo Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers instead of Watford winger Ismaila Sarr, according to reports.
The Athletic say Jurgen Klopp's Premier League champions had the choice of the two players but decided to go for Jota, who signed for around £45 million from Wolves over the weekend.
It was reported yesterday by website France Football that, while Liverpool and Watford had agreed a fee between €35-40m for the transfer of the Senegal international, Villa could swoop and offer him first-choice football.
Sarr, who was Watford's record signing when he joined from Rennes for £30m last summer, would struggle to dislodge Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah on the wings at Anfield and might fare better in terms of regular game-time elsewhere.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Villa head coach Dean Smith has spent the summer revamping his options up front, with Ollie Watkins and Bertrand Traore arriving from Brentford and Olympique Lyon respectively.
Mbwana Samatta looks set for the exit, with rumours persisting about a loan transfer to Fenerbahce, while Wesley Moraes remains out until the New Year with a serious knee injury.
Sarr, who operates primarily on the right wing, scored five goals and set up six for his team-mates in 28 games in the Premier League for relegated Watford last season.
After Monday night's 1-0 defeat of Sheffield United at Villa Park, Smith said the door remains open for more arrivals into B6.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"Quite possibly," the Villa boss when quizzed on incoming transfers.
"I'm still discussing with Christian (Purslow) and Johan (Lange) about getting some more in but we'll have to see."
Manchester United, Everton and Crystal Palace have also been linked with Sarr.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Updates: M5 closed in both directions due to crash involving HGV

The M5 near Worcester is closed in both directions after a serious crash involving a HGV .
The vehicle crossed @ @ @ @ @ J6 and J7 earlier this morning ( Wednesday , September 23 ) .
Emergency services @ @ @ @ @ heavy congestion is building on the both the northbound and southbound carriageways .
A picture @ @ @ @ @ the vehicle blocking the road , with a huge queue stretching into the distance .
@ @ @ @ @ the disruption is not expected to clear until the early afternoon .
West Midlands Alerts @ @ @ @ @ M5 CLOSED in both directions between J6 & J7 # Worcester due to a serious @ @ @ @ @ over the central reservation .
Worcestershire 's Operations Patrol Unit added : `` M5 motorway @ @ @ @ @ 7 .
Worcester .
BOTH DIRECTIONS following collision .
We 'll bring you the latest @ @ @ @ @ the traffic updates you need below .

The M5 near Worcester is closed in both directions after a serious crash involving a HGV.
The vehicle crossed over the central reservation between J6 and J7 earlier this morning (Wednesday, September 23).
Emergency services are at the scene while heavy congestion is building on the both the northbound and southbound carriageways.
A picture taken from the scene shows the vehicle blocking the road, with a huge queue stretching into the distance.
According to Highways England, the disruption is not expected to clear until the early afternoon.
West Midlands Alerts said on Twitter: "M5 CLOSED in both directions between J6 & J7 #Worcester due to a serious collision involving HGV which crossed over the central reservation.
"Emergency services on scene!"
Worcestershire's Operations Patrol Unit added: "M5 motorway closed between junctions 6 and 7. Worcester. BOTH DIRECTIONS following collision.
"Expect delays and avoid the area."
We'll bring you the latest on this incident and all the traffic updates you need below.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Expert explains what Blues are getting from San Jose addition

On paper alone , the signing of Mikel San Jose looks to be a real coup for Birmingham City .
He has seven Spain caps to his name , and was part of the Athletic Bilbao side that under Marcelo Bielsa reached the Europa League final in 2012 - they beat Manchester United in both legs of their last 16 tie that year too .
This isn ’ t San Jose ’ s first experience of England , though ; prior to that extended stay in the Basque Country , he spent three years as a trainee at Liverpool under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bilbao .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest transfer news and comment Why should you sign up ?
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How do you sign up ?
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of playing as a defensive midfielder and as a centre half , the 31-year-old ’ s versatility will certainly come in handy to compatriot Aitor Karanka , too .
San Jose made just shy of 400 appearances for Athletic , so for he and his family to take the plunge in coming back to England and , more specifically , Blues was a significant decision in his career .
Few know Spanish football better than journalist and author Guillem Balague , who shared a few musings on social media of what San Jose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improve on in order to adapt to the hustle and bustle of English football ’ s rather notorious second tier .
“ He needs to get to the physical form of the rest of the squad .
Training in England is different for the different demands of the Championship .
That might take a bit , but he is working hard on it , ” Balague tweeted .
“ He ’ s been brought because he can play CB and CM , and he does it with same level of intelligence .
Time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not in fear of the physical game , but his calmness and quality short passing might make him more suited for midfield .
It is to be determined “ Not the fastest but brave in anticipation , good in set pieces both attacking and defending .
Calm with the ball .
“ Intense without it but not overtly aggressive .
He has already talked about being a leader and that is the role he will have to play or has been asked to play .
“ He ’ s been brought because he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ professional on and off the pitch and at 31 , experienced .
Those are necessary qualities for the football culture @ karanka wants to impose .
“ His English will have to improve , but he remembers a bit of what he learnt at Liverpool .
“ It was a real surprise for the manager to hear that the signing was possible .
Under any other circumstances ( pandemic that makes life difficult for many clubs ) it would have been impossible .
Clever addition because it works on the pitch and also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all.
” You can view Guillem ’ s Twitter account and the thread in full by clicking here .
You can also visit his website here .

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On paper alone, the signing of Mikel San Jose looks to be a real coup for Birmingham City.
He has seven Spain caps to his name, and was part of the Athletic Bilbao side that under Marcelo Bielsa reached the Europa League final in 2012 - they beat Manchester United in both legs of their last 16 tie that year too.
This isn’t San Jose’s first experience of England, though; prior to that extended stay in the Basque Country, he spent three years as a trainee at Liverpool under Rafael Benitez before making his return to Bilbao.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Capable of playing as a defensive midfielder and as a centre half, the 31-year-old’s versatility will certainly come in handy to compatriot Aitor Karanka, too.
San Jose made just shy of 400 appearances for Athletic, so for he and his family to take the plunge in coming back to England and, more specifically, Blues was a significant decision in his career.
Few know Spanish football better than journalist and author Guillem Balague, who shared a few musings on social media of what San Jose will offer Blues and what he must improve on in order to adapt to the hustle and bustle of English football’s rather notorious second tier.
“He needs to get to the physical form of the rest of the squad. Training in England is different for the different demands of the Championship. That might take a bit, but he is working hard on it,” Balague tweeted.
“He’s been brought because he can play CB and CM, and he does it with same level of intelligence. Time will determine where he fits better. Not in fear of the physical game, but his calmness and quality short passing might make him more suited for midfield. It is to be determined
“Not the fastest but brave in anticipation, good in set pieces both attacking and defending. Calm with the ball. “Intense without it but not overtly aggressive. He has already talked about being a leader and that is the role he will have to play or has been asked to play.
(Image: Birmingham City/bcfc.com)
“He’s been brought because he’s a good player, good professional on and off the pitch and at 31, experienced. Those are necessary qualities for the football culture @karanka wants to impose.
“His English will have to improve, but he remembers a bit of what he learnt at Liverpool.
“It was a real surprise for the manager to hear that the signing was possible. Under any other circumstances (pandemic that makes life difficult for many clubs) it would have been impossible. Clever addition because it works on the pitch and also off the pitch - good example to all.”
You can view Guillem’s Twitter account and the thread in full by clicking here. You can also visit his website here.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Cadbury releases touching new film that everyone should watch

Cadbury has urged people to `` donate their words '' to the older generation in its most recent campaign to end loneliness and change people 's views of the eldery .
The new campaign , which is being launched in collaboration with AgeUK , has been released to help people ask elderly people the questions they want to be asked .
The film shows older people urging the viewer to `` ask them something interesting '' instead of `` how they slept '' or `` if they 're cold '' .
Instead the film asks the watcher to `` ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` going off to join the circus '' .
Cadbury has previously run a similar campaign with AgeUK which raised £400,000 for the charity .
Colin O'Toole , associate director of marketing at Cadbury UK & Ireland said : `` Last year , our campaign was all about raising awareness of the shocking reality of people who go whole weeks without speaking to anyone .
`` This year we want to continue to encourage the connection between you and the person you say hello to .
We wanted to focus this in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of older people and the lives they 've led .
`` Donating your words to an older person is n't about sympathy or duty – it 's something brimming with possibilities , that we want people to feel excited and motivated to do . ''
The new film was created by VCCP and Jonny Parker , associate creative director at VCCP added : `` For too long the media has pushed a view of elderly people that all they are is old .
They 're real people with lives and passions , just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't forget this is the generation that paved the way .
`` They 're the originals of everything – from the idea of living in peace with the world , of equal rights , veganism , free love , festivals in fields and all sorts of things we 're all interested in . ''
To help the campaign , you can search 'Donate your words ' on Google .
You can watch the video on Youtube here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Cadbury has urged people to "donate their words" to the older generation in its most recent campaign to end loneliness and change people's views of the eldery.
The new campaign, which is being launched in collaboration with AgeUK, has been released to help people ask elderly people the questions they want to be asked.
The film shows older people urging the viewer to "ask them something interesting" instead of "how they slept" or "if they're cold". Instead the film asks the watcher to "ask them about travelling the world" or "going off to join the circus".
Cadbury has previously run a similar campaign with AgeUK which raised £400,000 for the charity.
Colin O'Toole, associate director of marketing at Cadbury UK & Ireland said: "Last year, our campaign was all about raising awareness of the shocking reality of people who go whole weeks without speaking to anyone.
(Image: Getty Images)
"This year we want to continue to encourage the connection between you and the person you say hello to. We wanted to focus this in a more uplifting way which celebrates the voices of older people and the lives they've led.
"Donating your words to an older person isn't about sympathy or duty – it's something brimming with possibilities, that we want people to feel excited and motivated to do."
The new film was created by VCCP and Jonny Parker, associate creative director at VCCP added: "For too long the media has pushed a view of elderly people that all they are is old. They're real people with lives and passions, just like the rest of us. And don't forget this is the generation that paved the way.
"They're the originals of everything – from the idea of living in peace with the world, of equal rights, veganism, free love, festivals in fields and all sorts of things we're all interested in."
To help the campaign, you can search 'Donate your words' on Google. You can watch the video on Youtube here.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--The brilliant new way to see your area’s past and how you can bring old photos to life

BirminghamLive and InYourArea are launching a new service called Memory Lane , allowing you to colourise old photos .
Ever wondered what some of your historic family photos would look like in full colour ?
Or got black and white images from an old Aston Villa or Birmingham City match you want to colourise ?
Maybe you want to see how your neighbourhood shaped up 100 years ago ?
Or perhaps how the city centre landmarks looked in a time gone by ?
Perhaps you want to take a trip back to the time of the authentic Peaky Blinders ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ brilliant new online archive that includes the facility to fully colourise old black and white images , all for free .
If you want to breathe life into Villa 's 1982 European Cup victory , or splash colour onto a grainy image of Corporation Street from decades ago , here is your chance .
Our sister website InYourArea.co.uk has unveiled its latest new feature , called Memory Lane , and uses your postcode to show you a vast range of local pictures through recent history , from anywhere between one and 100 miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with your email address , you ’ ll get full access to hundreds of thousands of images pulled together from dozens of different online archives including Britain From Above , Francis Frith , our publisher Reach plc ’ s own library , Geograph and many others .
Your own historic images can also be added to the archive for others to see .
And you 'll be able to breathe new life into your own black and white photographs by using Memory Lane ’ s incredible tool to give them full colour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trip down Memory Lane and see what amazing discoveries await .

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BirminghamLive and InYourArea are launching a new service called Memory Lane, allowing you to colourise old photos.
Ever wondered what some of your historic family photos would look like in full colour? Or got black and white images from an old Aston Villa or Birmingham City match you want to colourise?
Maybe you want to see how your neighbourhood shaped up 100 years ago? Or perhaps how the city centre landmarks looked in a time gone by?
Perhaps you want to take a trip back to the time of the authentic Peaky Blinders?
Well now you can, with a brilliant new online archive that includes the facility to fully colourise old black and white images, all for free.
If you want to breathe life into Villa's 1982 European Cup victory, or splash colour onto a grainy image of Corporation Street from decades ago, here is your chance.
Our sister website InYourArea.co.uk has unveiled its latest new feature, called Memory Lane, and uses your postcode to show you a vast range of local pictures through recent history, from anywhere between one and 100 miles away from you.
Just by signing up with your email address, you’ll get full access to hundreds of thousands of images pulled together from dozens of different online archives including Britain From Above, Francis Frith, our publisher Reach plc’s own library, Geograph and many others.
Your own historic images can also be added to the archive for others to see.
And you'll be able to breathe new life into your own black and white photographs by using Memory Lane’s incredible tool to give them full colour.
Enter your postcode below to take a trip down Memory Lane and see what amazing discoveries await.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--'Havoc' - Racing off-road bikers forcing residents out of homes

A family are considering moving homes after being “ plagued ” by off-road bikers using nearby roads and green land .
Resident Thomas Davies , who lives on the Netherhall Park Estate in Great Barr , has said bikers use their neighbourhood and Great Barr Hall estate as a race track , and alleged there is a “ lack of interest ” from police .
But the local police team said there had been an operation to tackle the problem over the weekend and three bikes were seized which are intended to be destroyed .
Mr Davies , 32 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area with his partner and two children aged five and two , said : “ For a number of years we have been plagued by off-road bikes and quadbikes , using our estate and adjacent land as a racetrack.
” He said between five and 20 bikers come to the area between 2pm and 6pm on weekends accompanied by cars which also race .
He added : “ [ The weekend of Sept 13 ] was a particularly bad experience , as we had 20 bikes and cars racing around our estate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as residents report these incidents to Walsall Police however there is an apparent lack of interest to act upon these reports - it is only a matter of time before a serious injury occurs , considering the number of children and dog walkers we have by us .
“ I have previously met with two PCSO officers , who were very keen to resolve this issue , along with Cllr Adrian Andrew who has been an advocate in sorting this out.
” He said Cllr Andrew has now been granted the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ installed on a lamp-post at the entrance of the slip road leading to Great Barr Hall - one of the entrances used by bikers .
He added : “ The issue has got so bad that I and my family are considering moving areas to get away from it.
” He said a large police operation tackled the problem last weekend ( Sept 20 ) and this “ will go some way towards preventing them ” , but “ it is too late really ” .
Sergeant Jason Vlahakis from the local neighbourhood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police , said : “ We are aware of residents ’ concerns and taking action .
Illegal , anti-social biking is a real nuisance and a danger .
“ Colleagues in our traffic unit ran an operation here over the weekend that resulted in us seizing three off-road bikes .
We will be looking to permanently retain and destroy those bikes .
“ We ’ re working with partners to increase CCTV camera coverage on the estate and also looking to make improvements to a gate which will prevent bikers being able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take people ’ s concerns seriously .
If anyone has information about who ’ s involved or has video footage then please get in touch via 101 or Live Chat on our website.
” Cllr Adrian Andrew , ( Con ) , representing Pheasey Park Farm , said it was excellent news that police had acted to seize the bikes at the weekend .
He added : “ We are working with the owners to secure the site ( Great Barr Hall ) more effectively but it is proving to be slow.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of the historic former Great Barr Hall conservation area and Green Belt was recently turned down by councillors .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Gurdip Thandi, Mark Cardwell)

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A family are considering moving homes after being “plagued” by off-road bikers using nearby roads and green land.
Resident Thomas Davies, who lives on the Netherhall Park Estate in Great Barr, has said bikers use their neighbourhood and Great Barr Hall estate as a race track, and alleged there is a “lack of interest” from police.
But the local police team said there had been an operation to tackle the problem over the weekend and three bikes were seized which are intended to be destroyed.
(Image: Thomas Davies)
Mr Davies, 32, a sales manager who lives in the area with his partner and two children aged five and two, said: “For a number of years we have been plagued by off-road bikes and quadbikes, using our estate and adjacent land as a racetrack.”
He said between five and 20 bikers come to the area between 2pm and 6pm on weekends accompanied by cars which also race.
He added: “[The weekend of Sept 13] was a particularly bad experience, as we had 20 bikes and cars racing around our estate and causing havoc and nuisance.
“We as residents report these incidents to Walsall Police however there is an apparent lack of interest to act upon these reports - it is only a matter of time before a serious injury occurs, considering the number of children and dog walkers we have by us.
“I have previously met with two PCSO officers, who were very keen to resolve this issue, along with Cllr Adrian Andrew who has been an advocate in sorting this out.”
He said Cllr Andrew has now been granted the use of a hawk-eye camera, which has been installed on a lamp-post at the entrance of the slip road leading to Great Barr Hall - one of the entrances used by bikers.
He added: “The issue has got so bad that I and my family are considering moving areas to get away from it.”
He said a large police operation tackled the problem last weekend (Sept 20) and this “will go some way towards preventing them”, but “it is too late really”.
Sergeant Jason Vlahakis from the local neighbourhood police team, part of West Midlands Police, said: “We are aware of residents’ concerns and taking action. Illegal, anti-social biking is a real nuisance and a danger.
(Image: Thomas Davies)
“Colleagues in our traffic unit ran an operation here over the weekend that resulted in us seizing three off-road bikes. We will be looking to permanently retain and destroy those bikes.
“We’re working with partners to increase CCTV camera coverage on the estate and also looking to make improvements to a gate which will prevent bikers being able to access the location.
“We do take people’s concerns seriously. If anyone has information about who’s involved or has video footage then please get in touch via 101 or Live Chat on our website.”
Cllr Adrian Andrew, (Con), representing Pheasey Park Farm, said it was excellent news that police had acted to seize the bikes at the weekend.
He added: “We are working with the owners to secure the site (Great Barr Hall) more effectively but it is proving to be slow.”
A plan to place new homes on part of the historic former Great Barr Hall conservation area and Green Belt was recently turned down by councillors.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Study highlights potential Covid-19 risk for airline passengers

A new study has probed the risk of transmitting and catching Covid-19 on a long-haul flight - and the results are alarming .
The investigation centred on a female passenger who flew on a 10-hour trip to Vietnam from London on March 1 - before widespread travel restrictions were introduced .
The research , carried out by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , was published in the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal and highlighted the potential risks of international travel .
It revealed the female passenger involved in the study exhibited a few symptoms of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive a few days afterwards , reports ExpressOnline .
However , it was later discovered she had infected 14 passengers on the plane and a flight attendant .
Some 12 of the passengers were travelling in Business Class along with the woman , although the airline was not identified .
“ Aerosol or droplet transmission ” from the already-infected passenger would have been transmitted into the cabin causing the outbreak , according to the CDC .
It claimed the risk of contracting coronavirus on long flights was “ real ” .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was undertaken before passengers began wearing face coverings on flights .
“ The most likely route of transmission during the flight is aerosol or droplet transmission from case one , particularly for persons seated in business class , ” said the study .
`` The risk for on-board transmission of SARS-CoV-2 during long flights is real .
“ [ It ] has the potential to cause Covid-19 clusters of substantial size , even in business class-like settings with spacious seating arrangements well beyond the established distance used to define close contact on airplanes.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly 11,000 passengers have potentially been exposed to coronavirus on flights in the States , but it is not known how many people have picked up the virus whilst travelling onboard a plane .
Further research confirmed that face masks are an “ essential protective measure ” against the virus .
The insight was outlined in the technical publication “ Face Mask Use in Air Travel , ” released last week by Harvard ’ s T.H .
Chan School of Public Health .
Wearing face masks - and wearing them correctly - is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , the report said .
“ The use of face masks is critically important throughout the air travel process , from entering the airport for departure to leaving the destination airport , because it diminishes the release of infectious particles into the environment , ” the report stated .
Another study found that universal use of surgical masks on planes may reduce infection risk from respiratory particles to less than one percent .
Cotton fabrics with higher thread counts are the most effective among non-surgical masks .
However , some airlines forbid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an aircraft with some carriers insisting passengers carry several spare face masks for a journey .

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A new study has probed the risk of transmitting and catching Covid-19 on a long-haul flight - and the results are alarming.
The investigation centred on a female passenger who flew on a 10-hour trip to Vietnam from London on March 1 - before widespread travel restrictions were introduced.
The research, carried out by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was published in the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal and highlighted the potential risks of international travel.
It revealed the female passenger involved in the study exhibited a few symptoms of coronavirus ahead of the journey and tested positive a few days afterwards, reports ExpressOnline.
However, it was later discovered she had infected 14 passengers on the plane and a flight attendant. Some 12 of the passengers were travelling in Business Class along with the woman, although the airline was not identified.
“Aerosol or droplet transmission” from the already-infected passenger would have been transmitted into the cabin causing the outbreak, according to the CDC.
(Image: Daily Mirror/Andy Stenning)
It claimed the risk of contracting coronavirus on long flights was “real”. However, it must be remembered that the study was undertaken before passengers began wearing face coverings on flights.
“The most likely route of transmission during the flight is aerosol or droplet transmission from case one, particularly for persons seated in business class,” said the study.
"The risk for on-board transmission of SARS-CoV-2 during long flights is real.
“[It] has the potential to cause Covid-19 clusters of substantial size, even in business class-like settings with spacious seating arrangements well beyond the established distance used to define close contact on airplanes.”
The US body recently revealed that nearly 11,000 passengers have potentially been exposed to coronavirus on flights in the States, but it is not known how many people have picked up the virus whilst travelling onboard a plane.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Further research confirmed that face masks are an “essential protective measure” against the virus.
The insight was outlined in the technical publication “Face Mask Use in Air Travel,” released last week by Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Wearing face masks - and wearing them correctly - is “critical” in the fight against coronavirus, the report said.
“The use of face masks is critically important throughout the air travel process, from entering the airport for departure to leaving the destination airport, because it diminishes the release of infectious particles into the environment,” the report stated.
Another study found that universal use of surgical masks on planes may reduce infection risk from respiratory particles to less than one percent.
Cotton fabrics with higher thread counts are the most effective among non-surgical masks.
However, some airlines forbid the use of non-medical face coverings onboard an aircraft with some carriers insisting passengers carry several spare face masks for a journey.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Church of England update to coronavirus rules after Boris Johnson announcement

The Church of England has issued a statement following the latest announcement on coronavirus restrictions by Boris Johnson .
It said : `` Following the announcement by the Prime Minister of new measures to limit the spread of coronavirus , the Church of England is continuing to engage with Government departments to review advice to churches .
`` The Prime Minister emphasised that we can draw comfort from the fact that places of worship as well as schools and businesses are staying open .
It continued : `` We note the change from a maximum of 30 attending weddings to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 28 and will study any detailed documents when they are available and amend advice to churches accordingly .
`` We anticipate further updates in the next few days . ''
The CoE says public worship can continue as there is an exemption that covers places of worship , making it possible for more than six people to gather for acts of communal worship .
But it points out people must not be part of a group of more than six unless they are from the same household or support bubble .
Bible study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet as long as there are no more than six people in the house in total .
But the Church points to Government guidance saying that `` for activities and social groups where there is a significant likelihood of groups mixing and socialising ( and where it will be difficult to prevent mingling and therefore breaking the law ) should not take place in a community facility . ''
In addition , face coverings are currently mandatory in a range of indoor venues including places of worship and church halls .
Check the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your postcode in the box below : The CoE said : `` It is everyone ’ s responsibility to comply with the law .
`` This guidance is designed to help those who have responsibility for organising gatherings , to ensure they comply with the law and protect parishioners and the public , especially those most vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19 .
`` We acknowledge and share the sadness many are feeling at not being able to meet together as we used to do .
`` We prayerfully and confidently look forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet together again . ''

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The Church of England has issued a statement following the latest announcement on coronavirus restrictions by Boris Johnson.
It said: "Following the announcement by the Prime Minister of new measures to limit the spread of coronavirus, the Church of England is continuing to engage with Government departments to review advice to churches.
"The Prime Minister emphasised that we can draw comfort from the fact that places of worship as well as schools and businesses are staying open.
It continued: "We note the change from a maximum of 30 attending weddings to a maximum of 15 from Monday September 28 and will study any detailed documents when they are available and amend advice to churches accordingly.
"We anticipate further updates in the next few days."
(Image: Birmingham Live)
The CoE says public worship can continue as there is an exemption that covers places of worship, making it possible for more than six people to gather for acts of communal worship.
But it points out people must not be part of a group of more than six unless they are from the same household or support bubble.
Bible study groups and other home groups can still meet as long as there are no more than six people in the house in total.
But the Church points to Government guidance saying that "for activities and social groups where there is a significant likelihood of groups mixing and socialising (and where it will be difficult to prevent mingling and therefore breaking the law) should not take place in a community facility."
In addition, face coverings are currently mandatory in a range of indoor venues including places of worship and church halls.
Check the coronavirus restrictions in your area by typing your postcode in the box below:
The CoE said: "It is everyone’s responsibility to comply with the law.
"This guidance is designed to help those who have responsibility for organising gatherings, to ensure they comply with the law and protect parishioners and the public, especially those most vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.
"We acknowledge and share the sadness many are feeling at not being able to meet together as we used to do.
"We prayerfully and confidently look forward to the day when we can all meet together again."


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Asda shoppers 'revolted' by Xmas decoration you will love or hate

It may only be September but some people are already gearing themselves up for the festive season .
Days are getting shorter , temperature is getting lower and people are already preparing to buy Christmas presents and already eyeing up the nearest trees .
And with our Christmas tree , it can take us ages to find the right height and whether or not we want a artificial or real one .
But if you do n't want to be cleaning up pine needles anymore and you want something completely different then maybe this multi-coloured Christmas tree from Asda is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Facebook group Ways To Save to the joy - and horror - to many people looking for a potential Christmas deal .
The item description reads : `` Wow your guests with this amazing rainbow fir tree exclusive to George Home .
It flaunts stripes of green , purple , orange , red , yellow , and blue offering a playful way to break Christmas tradition !
`` Standing at 5ft , it ’ s perfect for sprucing up the hallway or adding a quirky touch to a quiet corner of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ item seems to have complete divided a number of people in group , with some dubbing it `` revolting '' or `` amazing '' .
One user said : `` Whatever possessed them to come out with this ? ''
while another person wrote : `` NO NO NO that 's horrible ! ''
But there were a number of people who loved the new tree dubbing it `` fabulous '' and `` something I definitely want right now '' .
If you want to grab yourself a truly fabulous tree , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it does n't appear to be up for sale right now .

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It may only be September but some people are already gearing themselves up for the festive season.
Days are getting shorter, temperature is getting lower and people are already preparing to buy Christmas presents and already eyeing up the nearest trees.
And with our Christmas tree, it can take us ages to find the right height and whether or not we want a artificial or real one.
But if you don't want to be cleaning up pine needles anymore and you want something completely different then maybe this multi-coloured Christmas tree from Asda is your thing.
The item was spotted on the Facebook group Ways To Save to the joy - and horror - to many people looking for a potential Christmas deal.
(Image: Asda)
The item description reads: "Wow your guests with this amazing rainbow fir tree exclusive to George Home. It flaunts stripes of green, purple, orange, red, yellow, and blue offering a playful way to break Christmas tradition!
"Standing at 5ft, it’s perfect for sprucing up the hallway or adding a quirky touch to a quiet corner of the home".
However the new item seems to have complete divided a number of people in group, with some dubbing it "revolting" or "amazing".
One user said: "Whatever possessed them to come out with this?" while another person wrote: "NO NO NO that's horrible!"
But there were a number of people who loved the new tree dubbing it "fabulous" and "something I definitely want right now".
If you want to grab yourself a truly fabulous tree, you can grab it from George for £50 but it doesn't appear to be up for sale right now.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Nelson Semedo's first words after swapping Barcelona for Wolves

Wolverhampton Wanderers ' latest signing , Nelson Semedo , has been speaking about his decision to move to Molineux .
The Portugal international has departed Barcelona for Nuno Espirito Santo 's side for €30 million , with another €10m due to Ronald Koeman 's side depending on whether clauses are met in the player 's contract .
Semedo has left Barca after three years with the club and was their starting right-back at the time of his decision to leave the Nou Camp .
The former Benfica man has discussed why he chose Wolves following his Barcelona exit , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into Molineux this summer .
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur had also been linked with Semedo , who has outlined his reasoning for moving to the West Midlands .
Semedo told Wolves ' website : `` I chose Wolves because it 's a very good team that plays very good football .
`` Last year they did a very good season and it 's a very important team in England , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can do very good things .
`` Coach Nuno is a very good coach .
He did very good things here in Wolves , and in other teams too .
For sure I 'm going to learn a lot from him.
” There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Wolves let Matt Doherty , the club 's starting right-back at the time of his departure , leave for Tottenham this summer .
And Semedo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can expect from him , with the player a replacement for Doherty .
`` They can expect a modern right-back , who likes to attack , '' he said .
`` I can bring the team pace , speed .
I like to go forward and come back .
They can expect a lot of work and a lot of ambition .
`` I 'm very excited to be here .
It 's a very good team .
To play in the Premier League is a dream from me too .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to meet my teammates and start training . ''

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Wolverhampton Wanderers' latest signing, Nelson Semedo, has been speaking about his decision to move to Molineux.
The Portugal international has departed Barcelona for Nuno Espirito Santo's side for €30 million, with another €10m due to Ronald Koeman's side depending on whether clauses are met in the player's contract.
Semedo has left Barca after three years with the club and was their starting right-back at the time of his decision to leave the Nou Camp.
The former Benfica man has discussed why he chose Wolves following his Barcelona exit, with the 26 year-old becoming the sixth arrival into Molineux this summer.
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur had also been linked with Semedo, who has outlined his reasoning for moving to the West Midlands.
Semedo told Wolves' website: "I chose Wolves because it's a very good team that plays very good football.
"Last year they did a very good season and it's a very important team in England, in also Europe. I hope this year we can do very good things.
"Coach Nuno is a very good coach. He did very good things here in Wolves, and in other teams too. For sure I'm going to learn a lot from him.”
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Wolves let Matt Doherty, the club's starting right-back at the time of his departure, leave for Tottenham this summer.
And Semedo has let Wolves fans in on what they can expect from him, with the player a replacement for Doherty.
"They can expect a modern right-back, who likes to attack," he said. "I can bring the team pace, speed. I like to go forward and come back. They can expect a lot of work and a lot of ambition.
"I'm very excited to be here. It's a very good team. To play in the Premier League is a dream from me too. So, I'm very excited to begin, to meet my teammates and start training."


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Bilic makes owner plea as Albion gear up for window run-in

Slaven Bilic has urged West Brom owner Guochuan Lai to provide extra funds as Albion seek to ramp up their transfer plans in the final weeks of the window .
Albion , who were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at home to Championship side Brentford on Tuesday evening , have added seven players to their squad - if you include Matheus Pereira - this summer but have spent much of their limited transfer budget on the recruitment of Grady Diangana .
There remain areas of the squad that Bilic desperately wants strengthening , not least of all the forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Huddersfield Town striker Karlan Grant is still the club ’ s primary target , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal which Albion would need to structure with payments over an extended period of time .
Filip Krovinovic is still a player that Bilic wants to see the return of , too , but that deal is also currently in the balance because of Benfica ’ s demands .
There are clubs on the continent that are interested in the Croatian midfielder , too .
While departures of certain first-team players are also likely - winger Kamil Grosicki and striker Kenneth Zohore are two such players who could find pastures new before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wants those targets signed up in time as Albion look to respond after a slow start to the league season .
The head coach hopes that the club ’ s recruitment team may be supported financially from above in their pursuit of those targets .
“ Hopefully , ” he said after the Brentford penalty shoot-out .
“ Everybody knows we need a couple more players and we are doing everything to get them .
“ I hope our owners recognise the situation and help us to get there .
”

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Slaven Bilic has urged West Brom owner Guochuan Lai to provide extra funds as Albion seek to ramp up their transfer plans in the final weeks of the window.
Albion, who were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at home to Championship side Brentford on Tuesday evening, have added seven players to their squad - if you include Matheus Pereira - this summer but have spent much of their limited transfer budget on the recruitment of Grady Diangana.
There remain areas of the squad that Bilic desperately wants strengthening, not least of all the forward line.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Huddersfield Town striker Karlan Grant is still the club’s primary target, but the Terriers are digging their heels in over a deal which Albion would need to structure with payments over an extended period of time.
Filip Krovinovic is still a player that Bilic wants to see the return of, too, but that deal is also currently in the balance because of Benfica’s demands. There are clubs on the continent that are interested in the Croatian midfielder, too.
While departures of certain first-team players are also likely - winger Kamil Grosicki and striker Kenneth Zohore are two such players who could find pastures new before October’s deadline - Bilic still wants those targets signed up in time as Albion look to respond after a slow start to the league season.
The head coach hopes that the club’s recruitment team may be supported financially from above in their pursuit of those targets.
“Hopefully,” he said after the Brentford penalty shoot-out. “Everybody knows we need a couple more players and we are doing everything to get them.
“I hope our owners recognise the situation and help us to get there.”


birminghammail--2020-09-23--The nine parts of West Midlands where coronavirus is falling

Coronavirus infections rates in nine parts of the West Midlands are falling , the latest figures from Public Health England show .
As Boris Johnson introduced new Covid restrictions to help reduce the spread of the virus , the latest Public Health England figures reveal infections rates ( the number of people infected per positive coronavirus case ) in nine areas in the region are on the fall .
The figures show Solihull has dipped from 77 cases per 100,000 people to around 62 , with Wolverhampton down from 66 cases per 100k to 53 .
The stats also show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone from nearly 38 cases per 100,000 to 24 , while East Staffordshire and Newcastle-under-Lyme have seen marginal dips .
Both areas remain hovering around the 20 mark , alongside Bromsgrove , which has seen its rate halve from 36 cases per 100k last week .
The rate in Malvern Hills and Wychavon is even lower , at 16 and 10 cases per 100,000 respectively , with 11 cases per 100k in Redditch , down from 14 last week .
The figures , for the seven days to September 19 , are based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pillar one of the Government 's testing programme ) and in the wider community ( pillar two ) .
The rate is expressed as the number of new cases per 100,000 people .
Data for the most recent three days ( September 20-22 ) has been excluded as it is incomplete and likely to be revised .
The list is based on Public Health England data published on Tuesday , September 22 .
From left to right , it reads : name of local authority ; rate of new cases in the seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in brackets ) of new cases recorded in the seven days to September 19 ; rate of new cases in the seven days to September 12 ; number ( in brackets ) of new cases recorded in the seven days to September 12 .

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Coronavirus infections rates in nine parts of the West Midlands are falling, the latest figures from Public Health England show.
As Boris Johnson introduced new Covid restrictions to help reduce the spread of the virus, the latest Public Health England figures reveal infections rates (the number of people infected per positive coronavirus case) in nine areas in the region are on the fall.
The figures show Solihull has dipped from 77 cases per 100,000 people to around 62, with Wolverhampton down from 66 cases per 100k to 53.
The stats also show falling numbers in Cannock, which has gone from nearly 38 cases per 100,000 to 24, while East Staffordshire and Newcastle-under-Lyme have seen marginal dips.
Both areas remain hovering around the 20 mark, alongside Bromsgrove, which has seen its rate halve from 36 cases per 100k last week.
The rate in Malvern Hills and Wychavon is even lower, at 16 and 10 cases per 100,000 respectively, with 11 cases per 100k in Redditch, down from 14 last week.
The figures, for the seven days to September 19, are based on tests carried out in laboratories (pillar one of the Government's testing programme) and in the wider community (pillar two).
The rate is expressed as the number of new cases per 100,000 people.
Data for the most recent three days (September 20-22) has been excluded as it is incomplete and likely to be revised.
The list is based on Public Health England data published on Tuesday, September 22.
From left to right, it reads: name of local authority; rate of new cases in the seven days to September 19; number (in brackets) of new cases recorded in the seven days to September 19; rate of new cases in the seven days to September 12; number (in brackets) of new cases recorded in the seven days to September 12.
Solihull 61.9 (134), 77.6 (168)
Wolverhampton 53.5 (141), 66.4 (175)
Cannock Chase 24.8 (25), 36.7 (37)
East Staffordshire 21.7 (26), 24.2 (29)
Newcastle-under-Lyme 18.5 (24), 23.2 (30)
Bromsgrove 18.0 (18), 36.0 (36)
Malvern Hills 16.5 (13), 29.2 (23)
Redditch 11.7 (10), 14.1 (12)
Wychavon 10.8 (14), 21.6 (28)


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Man suffers 'serious injuries' after being 'stabbed' at skate park

Medics have treated a man for potentially serious injures after he was 'stabbed ' at a Black Country skate park .
West Ambulance Ambulance Service said a number of resources were sent to the scene after the alleged knifing inside Willenhall Memorial Park at around 6.45pm on Tuesday , September 22 .
Eyewitnesses claim the victim was attacked by 'up to seven people ' after the violence flared at the green space .
They also told BlackCountryLive that officers from West Midlands Police conducted searches in the area shortly after .
It is not known if anyone has been arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more information .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at 6.42pm last night to a patient in Pinson Road who 'd reportedly been stabbed .
`` We sent an ambulance , a paramedic officer and the MERIT car with a doctor and critical care paramedic onboard .
`` Crews treated one patient , a man , for potentially serious injuries and he was conveyed to hospital for further treatment . ''
In England and Wales , the maximum sentence for carrying a knife illegally is four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If injury is caused , or a knife was used to commit a crime , the penalties could increase .

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Medics have treated a man for potentially serious injures after he was 'stabbed' at a Black Country skate park.
West Ambulance Ambulance Service said a number of resources were sent to the scene after the alleged knifing inside Willenhall Memorial Park at around 6.45pm on Tuesday, September 22.
Eyewitnesses claim the victim was attacked by 'up to seven people' after the violence flared at the green space.
They also told BlackCountryLive that officers from West Midlands Police conducted searches in the area shortly after.
It is not known if anyone has been arrested but the force has been contacted for more information.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 6.42pm last night to a patient in Pinson Road who'd reportedly been stabbed.
"We sent an ambulance, a paramedic officer and the MERIT car with a doctor and critical care paramedic onboard.
"Crews treated one patient, a man, for potentially serious injuries and he was conveyed to hospital for further treatment."
In England and Wales, the maximum sentence for carrying a knife illegally is four years in prison and an unlimited fine. If injury is caused, or a knife was used to commit a crime, the penalties could increase.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Drivers warned by government not to stop at petrol stations over Covid fears

Motorists are urgently being warned to AVOID stopping at petrol stations - unless absolutely necessary .
The messaging to drivers comes from the government amid a swathe of new restrictions and measures across the country .
The Government has today updated its advice for those using the roads .
On Tuesday night , Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered a landmark address to the nation from No 10 Downing Street at 8pm .
The speech unveiled a raft of new measures and restrictions for England as the rate of coronavirus crisis continues to rise and rise .
Mr Johnson announced curfews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service only , and announced changes to face masks and increased fines .
Revised guidance - set out in a 34-page document - says : `` Only stop at petrol stations or motorway service stations if you really need to .
`` If you have to stop , try to make sure you are social distancing .
`` Always wash your hands before and after you travel . ''
Drivers are also urged against car sharing in a bid to drive the rate of cases down and get the country back to some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept open and travellers face away from each other , it adds .
Passengers on public transport are also warned against consuming any food and drink on their journeys .
The penalties for disobeying the rules will also be greater - failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will see fines doubling to £200 for a first offence .
Businesses which break the rules could be fined up to £10,000 and closed .
Fines of up to £10,000 for people who fail to self-isolate have already been announced .

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Motorists are urgently being warned to AVOID stopping at petrol stations - unless absolutely necessary.
The messaging to drivers comes from the government amid a swathe of new restrictions and measures across the country.
The Government has today updated its advice for those using the roads.
On Tuesday night, Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered a landmark address to the nation from No 10 Downing Street at 8pm.
The speech unveiled a raft of new measures and restrictions for England as the rate of coronavirus crisis continues to rise and rise.
Mr Johnson announced curfews for pubs, as well as table service only, and announced changes to face masks and increased fines.
Revised guidance - set out in a 34-page document - says: "Only stop at petrol stations or motorway service stations if you really need to.
"If you have to stop, try to make sure you are social distancing.
"Always wash your hands before and after you travel."
Drivers are also urged against car sharing in a bid to drive the rate of cases down and get the country back to some sense of normality.
Windows should be kept open and travellers face away from each other, it adds.
Passengers on public transport are also warned against consuming any food and drink on their journeys.
The penalties for disobeying the rules will also be greater - failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will see fines doubling to £200 for a first offence.
Businesses which break the rules could be fined up to £10,000 and closed.
Fines of up to £10,000 for people who fail to self-isolate have already been announced.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Latest destinations at risk of being added to UK travel quarantine list

Iceland could be the next country to be axed from the UK 's safe travel list after the country 's infection rate surged over the weekend .
The number of cases has doubled in recent days and tour operator and airline Jet2 announced this week it was suspending trips to the country .
The 'quarantine exemption list ' is reviewed each week and dictates where Britons can go on holiday without the need for 14 days in isolation on return to the UK .
Destinations usually lose their exempt status when a seven-day infection rate surges above 20 per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be next to have travel restrictions introduced .
This week , the country ’ s infection rate surpassed the UK ’ s threshold figure with 40.6 cases per 100,000 people .
The number has more than doubled after recording just 19.3 cases per 100,000 on Saturday .
Its infection rate is higher than Iceland and the UK , with 45.3 cases per 100,000 people over a seven-day period .
The country is very likely to be removed from the travel corridor list this week after being spared previously .
This is on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people recorded over a seven-day period and is in the “ amber zone ” of countries .
Several Greek islands are already on the quarantine list but mainland Greece has so far managed to remain on the safe list .
Another popular holiday spot causing concern is Italy with 17 cases per 100,000 people over a seven-day period - although it is generally managing to keep infections under control .
The country has become a popular destination with holidaymakers after managing to keep its coronavirus cases under control .
South Africa , Canada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an increase in coronavirus cases .
• Greece ( except the islands of Crete , Lesvos , Mykonos , Santorini , Serifos , Tinos and Zakynthos ) For more information on travel advice , visit the Foreign Office website here .

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Iceland could be the next country to be axed from the UK's safe travel list after the country's infection rate surged over the weekend.
The number of cases has doubled in recent days and tour operator and airline Jet2 announced this week it was suspending trips to the country.
The 'quarantine exemption list' is reviewed each week and dictates where Britons can go on holiday without the need for 14 days in isolation on return to the UK.
Destinations usually lose their exempt status when a seven-day infection rate surges above 20 per 100,000 people.
These are the countries that may be next to have travel restrictions introduced.
Iceland
This week, the country’s infection rate surpassed the UK’s threshold figure with 40.6 cases per 100,000 people.
The number has more than doubled after recording just 19.3 cases per 100,000 on Saturday.
Denmark
Its infection rate is higher than Iceland and the UK, with 45.3 cases per 100,000 people over a seven-day period. The country is very likely to be removed from the travel corridor list this week after being spared previously.
Mainland Greece
This is on the borderline with 18.1 cases per 100,000 people recorded over a seven-day period and is in the “amber zone” of countries.
Several Greek islands are already on the quarantine list but mainland Greece has so far managed to remain on the safe list.
Italy
Another popular holiday spot causing concern is Italy with 17 cases per 100,000 people over a seven-day period - although it is generally managing to keep infections under control.
The country has become a popular destination with holidaymakers after managing to keep its coronavirus cases under control.
South Africa, Canada and Germany are now also showing signs of an increase in coronavirus cases.
Destinations currently on safe travel corridor list
Akrotiri and Dhekelia
Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
the Azores
Barbados
Bermuda
Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba
British Antarctic Territory
British Indian Ocean Territory
British Virgin Islands
Brunei
Cayman Islands
the Channel Islands
Cuba
Curaçao
Cyprus
Denmark
Dominica
Estonia
Falkland Islands
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
Gibraltar
Germany
Greece (except the islands of Crete, Lesvos, Mykonos, Santorini, Serifos, Tinos and Zakynthos)
Greenland
Grenada
Hong Kong
Iceland
Ireland
the Isle of Man
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Macao (Macau)
Madeira
Malaysia
Mauritius
Montserrat
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Norway
Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands
Poland
San Marino
Seychelles
Singapore
Slovakia
South Korea
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
St Barthélemy
St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Pierre and Miquelon
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Sweden
Taiwan
Thailand
Turkey
Vatican City State
Vietnam
For more information on travel advice, visit the Foreign Office website here.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--'Different level' - Wolves fans go nuts as Barcelona transfer confirmed

Wolverhampton Wanderers fans have been reacting to the arrival of defender Nelson Semedo from Barcelona .
Semedo has arrived from the Nou Camp for €30 million , with €10m more due in add-ons if various clauses are activated .
The 13-cap Portugal international has become Wolves ' sixth signing of the summer and adds further depth to Nuno Espirito Santo 's ranks for the 2020-21 campaign .
Semedo made 124 appearances for Barca and played 42 games last season , including every minute of his old club 's post-lockdown Champions League mini-tournament in Portugal .
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Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
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We also have a free app which you can download @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store He ends his career as Barelona 's starting right-back and will replace Matt Doherty , who has moved to Tottenham Hotspur this summer .
Wolves fans have been offering their reaction to the transfer , with Semedo the latest arrival in a summer of change at Molineux .
`` To sign a Barcelona player , what is going on with my club ? ''
one asked , `` I 'm in heaven . ''
`` Who would have thought a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of Barcelona 's starting players ? ''
another said .
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Referencing the thought of Semedo linking up with Adama Traore , a third fan said : `` Fastest right side in the League . ''
`` Unbelievable , I love being a Wolves fan , '' said another .
`` Great signing , '' another added .
`` This is different level . ''

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Wolverhampton Wanderers fans have been reacting to the arrival of defender Nelson Semedo from Barcelona.
Semedo has arrived from the Nou Camp for €30 million, with €10m more due in add-ons if various clauses are activated.
The 13-cap Portugal international has become Wolves' sixth signing of the summer and adds further depth to Nuno Espirito Santo's ranks for the 2020-21 campaign.
Semedo made 124 appearances for Barca and played 42 games last season, including every minute of his old club's post-lockdown Champions League mini-tournament in Portugal.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
He ends his career as Barelona's starting right-back and will replace Matt Doherty, who has moved to Tottenham Hotspur this summer.
Wolves fans have been offering their reaction to the transfer, with Semedo the latest arrival in a summer of change at Molineux.
"To sign a Barcelona player, what is going on with my club?" one asked, "I'm in heaven."
"Who would have thought a few years ago we would be getting one of Barcelona's starting players?" another said.
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Referencing the thought of Semedo linking up with Adama Traore, a third fan said: "Fastest right side in the League."
"Unbelievable, I love being a Wolves fan," said another.
"Great signing," another added. "This is different level."


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Aldi CEO issues appeal to customers after Boris announcement

Aldi has issued a statement after Boris Johnson announced tougher measures were set to be introduced this week .
The PM made the televised announcement yesterday evening which included pubs , restaurants and bars shutting at 10pm and urged people to work from home once more .
He also made it compulsory for shop workers to wear facemasks and urged others to make sure they wear one as well .
And with the announcement , Aldi has decided to speak up about the announcement about what it is doing to ensure people feel safe about shopping at the popular supermarket @ @ @ @ @ @ @ panic buy goods after there was speculation there may be another national lockdown .
CEO Giles Hurley has urged people to `` shop considerably '' and `` there is no need to buy more than you usually should .
He said : `` As we continue to battle this virus together , I want to reassure you that the comprehensive safety measures we put in place in our stores at the start of the pandemic are still very much in place – and will remain so for as long as they are necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear a face covering when shopping with us , unless they are exempt from doing so .
Our store colleagues will also continue to wear face coverings whilst working in store .
`` I would like to reassure you that our stores remain fully stocked and ask that you continue to shop considerately .
There is no need to buy more than you usually would .
We have remained open for our customers throughout the pandemic and will continue to have daily deliveries , often multiple times a day , across all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store , we kindly ask that you try to maintain a safe distance from others at all times , shop by yourself whenever possible and use contactless payment methods if you can .
`` I will of course keep you updated on any new steps we are taking , and please rest assured that we are as committed as ever to providing you with a quick , safe and affordable shopping experience every time you visit Aldi .
`` Finally , my sincere thanks to you for your continued support and also to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work and dedication ''

Aldi has issued a statement after Boris Johnson announced tougher measures were set to be introduced this week.
The PM made the televised announcement yesterday evening which included pubs, restaurants and bars shutting at 10pm and urged people to work from home once more.
He also made it compulsory for shop workers to wear facemasks and urged others to make sure they wear one as well.
And with the announcement, Aldi has decided to speak up about the announcement about what it is doing to ensure people feel safe about shopping at the popular supermarket.
Supermarkets have seen people beginning to panic buy goods after there was speculation there may be another national lockdown.
CEO Giles Hurley has urged people to "shop considerably" and "there is no need to buy more than you usually should.
He said: "As we continue to battle this virus together, I want to reassure you that the comprehensive safety measures we put in place in our stores at the start of the pandemic are still very much in place – and will remain so for as long as they are necessary.
(Image: Stoke on Trent Live & The Sentinel)
"We ask that customers continue to wear a face covering when shopping with us, unless they are exempt from doing so. Our store colleagues will also continue to wear face coverings whilst working in store.
"I would like to reassure you that our stores remain fully stocked and ask that you continue to shop considerately. There is no need to buy more than you usually would. We have remained open for our customers throughout the pandemic and will continue to have daily deliveries, often multiple times a day, across all of our products.
"While in store, we kindly ask that you try to maintain a safe distance from others at all times, shop by yourself whenever possible and use contactless payment methods if you can.
"I will of course keep you updated on any new steps we are taking, and please rest assured that we are as committed as ever to providing you with a quick, safe and affordable shopping experience every time you visit Aldi.
"Finally, my sincere thanks to you for your continued support and also to every single Aldi colleague for their hard work and dedication"