birminghammail--2020-07-12--Aston Villa, West Ham, Watford and Bournemouth’s fixtures in full

Aston Villa secured maximum points for the first time in almost six months to give their fight against relegation a much-needed shot in the arm .
Villa had been winless in their previous 10 Premier League matches prior to Crystal Palace 's arrival at B6 on Sunday .
Dean Smith 's side were 19th in the table and a huge seven points from safety before Trezeuget put two past Palace without reply to secure a vital victory .
VAR was involved again , ruling out a Mamadou Sakho goal just seven minutes in when the defender was adjudged to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past Pepe Reina .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here Trezeguet latched onto Conor Hourihane 's deflected free-kick to give Villa the lead in first-half injury time and after referee Martin Atkinson was overruled by the VAR after awarding a penalty for a challenge on Jack Grealish , Trezeguet struck again .
This time the Egypt winger pounced on a mistake by Sakho to slot home .
We 're into the stage of the season where fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Here 's every fixture remaining for Villa and their relegation rivals as the end of the season nears , including the encouraging quirk of Watford and West Ham meeting next up ...

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Shane Ireland, Ashley Preece, Richard Cusack)

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Aston Villa are feeling sorry for themselves and hoping for a miracle after a devastating blow at Everton.
Ezri Konsa looked to have given Villa another precious three points when he opened the scoring at Goodison Park.
But the Toffees hit back to break claret and blue hearts with a last gasp leveller through substitute Theo Walcott.
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Villa were left to rue a glaring miss from Anwar El Ghazi as they failed to gaoin significant ground on their rivals.
Dean Smith's men went into the game in a confident mood after beating Crystal Palace at Villa Park on Sunday.
However, the 1-1 draw at Everton was very much two points dropped and leaves them marooned in the Premier League relegation zone.
It was typical feeling of despair for Villa who are approaching last orders in the Last Chance Saloon.
We're into the squeaky bum time stage of the season where fans are checking results elsewhere with considerable interest.
Two of their relegation rivals, West Ham and Watford face off on Friday and that's the one that all Villa fans will be keeping an eye on, hoping for a glimmer of hope for the final week and a half of a challenging campaign.
Here's every fixture remaining for Villa and their relegation rivals as the end of the season nears.
19. Aston Villa | Played 36 | 31 points | -27 goal difference
Tuesday, July 21: Arsenal (h), 8.15pm
Sunday, July 26: West Ham (a), 4pm
18. Bournemouth | Played 36 | 31 points | -25 goal difference
Sunday, July 19: Southampton (h), 2pm
Sunday, July 26: Everton (a), 4pm
17. Watford | Played 35 | 34 points | -21 goal difference
Friday, July 17: West Ham (a), 8pm
Tuesday, July 21: Man City (h), 6pm
Sunday, July 26: Arsenal (a), 4pm
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16. West Ham | Played 35 | 34 points | -15 goal difference
Friday, July 17: Watford (h), 8pm
Tuesday, July 21: Manchester United (a), 6pm
Sunday, July 26: Aston Villa (h), 4pm
15. Brighton | Played 35 | 36 points | -16 goal difference
Thursday, July 16: Southampton (a), 8.15pm
Monday, July 20: Newcastle (h), 6pm
Sunday, July 26: Burnley (a), 4pm


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Roy Hodgson hits out at Christian Benteke for Aston Villa performance

One of the biggest events during Aston Villa 's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace occurred under the radar and off-screen .
As the whistle was blown to end the game and seal a Villa victory , former Holte End hero Christian Benteke received a red card , right as coverage of the game switched over to the North London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur .
This led to confusion - with the Premier League declaring Benteke had been sent off during a fracas at the end of the game due to foul language .
However , Palace boss Roy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mist ' and allegedly kicked out at Villa defender Ezri Konsa - earning him the red card .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' Benteke has missed a lot of football through injury .
He got himself fit to play through these last nine games and will now miss the last three of them after kicking out at an opponent , '' said Hodgson after the match .
`` Nothing I can say here to excuse it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa are desperate for points and will take advantage if they think our players are susceptible .
`` I 'm very unhappy with him being sent off and frankly , I do n't know what he 's able to say to any of us to justify it other than the fact the red mist came down and he did something that he will regret . ''
Benteke will now miss Palace 's next three games - ruling him out for the season , and hampering Hodgson 's planning - with the former England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything to cause the ruckus at the end of the game .
`` We will regret it .
We 've been playing with forwards - two centre-forwards in Ayew and Benteke .
Now we 've got one , '' added the Palace manager .
`` The scenes after the game , they are not really the kind of scenes that should be happening after a game like this .
I did n't see anything untoward that was happening .
I did n't see any bad fouls , anyone brutally kicked or guilty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minor things , small things .
I thought the scenes at the end of the game were a great discredit to both teams . ''

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One of the biggest events during Aston Villa's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace occurred under the radar and off-screen.
As the whistle was blown to end the game and seal a Villa victory, former Holte End hero Christian Benteke received a red card, right as coverage of the game switched over to the North London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
This led to confusion - with the Premier League declaring Benteke had been sent off during a fracas at the end of the game due to foul language.
However, Palace boss Roy Hodgson noted that Benteke had seen 'red mist' and allegedly kicked out at Villa defender Ezri Konsa - earning him the red card.
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"Benteke has missed a lot of football through injury. He got himself fit to play through these last nine games and will now miss the last three of them after kicking out at an opponent," said Hodgson after the match.
"Nothing I can say here to excuse it. The game had needle and Aston Villa are desperate for points and will take advantage if they think our players are susceptible.
"I'm very unhappy with him being sent off and frankly, I don't know what he's able to say to any of us to justify it other than the fact the red mist came down and he did something that he will regret."
Benteke will now miss Palace's next three games - ruling him out for the season, and hampering Hodgson's planning - with the former England manager noting that he hadn't seen anything to cause the ruckus at the end of the game.
"We will regret it. We've been playing with forwards - two centre-forwards in Ayew and Benteke. Now we've got one," added the Palace manager.
"The scenes after the game, they are not really the kind of scenes that should be happening after a game like this. I didn't see anything untoward that was happening. I didn't see any bad fouls, anyone brutally kicked or guilty of enormous cheating.
"It was all minor things, small things. I thought the scenes at the end of the game were a great discredit to both teams."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Kate Garraway's brilliant request to Ben Shephard hours before GMB return

Kate Garraway will return to Good Morning Britain on Monday - with a request for co-presenter Ben Shephard .
Kate will be back on the ITV1 daytime TV favourite on Monday , July 13 , alongside Ben as she returns to the studio and gets back to work .
The GMB presenter has been absent from the show for months , with her husband Derek Draper in hospital having contracted coronavirus .
Derek , a former Labour adviser , was rushed to hospital with Covid-19 in April , and entered a coma on April 5 .
He has since left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to regain consciousness , with Kate told by doctors to `` get on with life '' .
Kate will return to GMB days after returning to be interviewed by Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid over Derek 's condition .
The GMB presenter 's impending return has colleague Ben delighted , with the presenter telling viewers on Friday : `` It was really great to see Kate in the studio smiling , talking very honestly about the situation Derek is in .
`` He continues to be critical , although he is out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's not simple .
`` She did have a really , really lovely announcement for all of us . ''
But he also revealed her very important request ahead of her return .
When Ranvir joked : `` And has n't she been through enough without having to sit next to you ? ''
Revealing Kate 's request , Ben replied : `` She did say brilliantly that she wants me to be rude to her .
I am warming up , I am very , very prepared . ''

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Kate Garraway will return to Good Morning Britain on Monday - with a request for co-presenter Ben Shephard.
Kate will be back on the ITV1 daytime TV favourite on Monday, July 13, alongside Ben as she returns to the studio and gets back to work.
The GMB presenter has been absent from the show for months, with her husband Derek Draper in hospital having contracted coronavirus.
Derek, a former Labour adviser, was rushed to hospital with Covid-19 in April, and entered a coma on April 5.
He has since left the medically-induced state, but is yet to regain consciousness, with Kate told by doctors to "get on with life".
Kate will return to GMB days after returning to be interviewed by Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid over Derek's condition.
(Image: ITV)
The GMB presenter's impending return has colleague Ben delighted, with the presenter telling viewers on Friday: "It was really great to see Kate in the studio smiling, talking very honestly about the situation Derek is in.
"He continues to be critical, although he is out of the coma and they can FaceTime, it's not simple.
"She did have a really, really lovely announcement for all of us."
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But he also revealed her very important request ahead of her return.
When Ranvir joked: "And hasn't she been through enough without having to sit next to you?"
Revealing Kate's request, Ben replied: "She did say brilliantly that she wants me to be rude to her. I am warming up, I am very, very prepared."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Bilic explains what players have said amid 'pressure' from rivals

Slaven Bilic admits his West Bromwich Albion players are feeling the pressure of a promotion battle - but he would n't have it any other way .
Albion were held to a 1-1 draw at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday after Filip Krovinovic 's opener was cancelled out by Joe Rothwell .
The Baggies , in second , are three points behind Championship leaders Leeds United and three ahead of Brentford with both of their rivals having won over the weekend .
Brentford have put together an incredible run of seven straight victories but Albion know their destiny remains in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here Asked about the pressure on his side , Bilic said : `` The guys feel the pressure but I ’ ve told the guys - the pressure is normal .
You are not less worthy because you feel pressure .
`` When people talk about pressure today they talk about how you shouldn ’ t feel pressure .
Feeling pressure isn ’ t macho .
It ’ s like a flaw , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pressure comes with the position .
The teams below us have less pressure - not because they are superheroes or because they are made of something better than we are .
`` It ’ s because they are below .
If we swapped positions then they would have more pressure and we would have less .
`` It goes with that .
It ’ s in every league , you see it in every sport .
So no problem .
Do we have pressure ?
Yes , let 's admits it - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the visitors to The Hawthorns on Tuesday in another vital clash .
Bilic vowed : `` But then we have to say how are we going to cope with the pressure ?
By sticking together , by being together and helping each other .
`` That is what we are going to do .
Not to say we don ’ t feel pressure , no no .
We feel pressure , everybody feels pressure but together we can cope with it - especially if we admit it .
Yes we feel it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on .
We are going to be brave and face that pressure . ''

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Slaven Bilic admits his West Bromwich Albion players are feeling the pressure of a promotion battle - but he wouldn't have it any other way.
Albion were held to a 1-1 draw at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday after Filip Krovinovic's opener was cancelled out by Joe Rothwell.
The Baggies, in second, are three points behind Championship leaders Leeds United and three ahead of Brentford with both of their rivals having won over the weekend.
Brentford have put together an incredible run of seven straight victories but Albion know their destiny remains in their own hands.
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Asked about the pressure on his side, Bilic said: "The guys feel the pressure but I’ve told the guys - the pressure is normal. You are not less worthy because you feel pressure.
"When people talk about pressure today they talk about how you shouldn’t feel pressure. Feeling pressure isn’t macho. It’s like a flaw, it’s seen as a negative.
"But the pressure comes with the position. The teams below us have less pressure - not because they are superheroes or because they are made of something better than we are.
"It’s because they are below. If we swapped positions then they would have more pressure and we would have less.
"It goes with that. It’s in every league, you see it in every sport. So no problem. Do we have pressure? Yes, let's admits it - we have pressure.
Fourth-placed Fulham are the visitors to The Hawthorns on Tuesday in another vital clash.
Bilic vowed: "But then we have to say how are we going to cope with the pressure? By sticking together, by being together and helping each other.
"That is what we are going to do. Not to say we don’t feel pressure, no no. We feel pressure, everybody feels pressure but together we can cope with it - especially if we admit it. Yes we feel it. So what?
"Face it head on. We are going to be brave and face that pressure."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Blues provide update on injured Chelsea starlet Clarke-Salter

Steve Spooner has not given up hope of having Jake Clarke-Salter to call on again this season .
Both the Chelsea loan man and fellow defender Kristian Pedersen missed Birmingham City ’ s 2-0 defeat at Stoke .
A fourth successive defeat means Blues are still looking anxiously over their shoulders and need all the defensive options they can muster .
With only three matches remaining - to be played in just ten days - there are fears Clarke-Salter might have kicked his last ball for Blues .
Sign up to our Blues newsletter with your email in the box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by clicking here But Spooner played down that suggestion .
“ Jake pulled up in training the other day , he hit a long ball and he just felt his groin go , ” the caretaker boss said .
“ He had a scan the other day , he had a slight tear in there .
We are not quite sure , we will have to see how he progresses .
“ It ’ s constant treatment , we will see how he is when the boys come back in to training tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s a chance he will miss the rest of the season , the physio department are quite optimistic .
These are the things you have to deal with and get on with .
“ I spoke to Kristian today and he is very confident but I don ’ t know , some players are quicker healers than others .
“ We will reconvene with the physio department tomorrow and assess the situation for the next few days ahead .
“ He just hit a diag ball and felt his groin go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with it before , that was something new to him .
That was disappointing.
” Blues face Charlton on Wednesday , before going to Preston in six days and finishing at home to Derby on July 22 .

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Steve Spooner has not given up hope of having Jake Clarke-Salter to call on again this season.
Both the Chelsea loan man and fellow defender Kristian Pedersen missed Birmingham City’s 2-0 defeat at Stoke.
A fourth successive defeat means Blues are still looking anxiously over their shoulders and need all the defensive options they can muster.
With only three matches remaining - to be played in just ten days - there are fears Clarke-Salter might have kicked his last ball for Blues.
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But Spooner played down that suggestion. “Jake pulled up in training the other day, he hit a long ball and he just felt his groin go,” the caretaker boss said.
“He had a scan the other day, he had a slight tear in there. We are not quite sure, we will have to see how he progresses.
“It’s constant treatment, we will see how he is when the boys come back in to training tomorrow.
“I don’t think there’s a chance he will miss the rest of the season, the physio department are quite optimistic. These are the things you have to deal with and get on with.
“I spoke to Kristian today and he is very confident but I don’t know, some players are quicker healers than others.
“We will reconvene with the physio department tomorrow and assess the situation for the next few days ahead.
“He just hit a diag ball and felt his groin go. He said he has never suffered with it before, that was something new to him. That was disappointing.”
Blues face Charlton on Wednesday, before going to Preston in six days and finishing at home to Derby on July 22.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Neves makes a late charge as Podence gives Nuno a problem

Wolverhampton Wanderers returned to form in spectacular fashion with a 3-0 victory over Everton .
Strikes from Raul Jimenez , Leander Dendoncker and Diogo Jota ensured Wolves equalled their biggest Premier League win of the season and closed the gap on the top four .
Wolves will need to be faultless in their remaining three matches to stand a chance of gate-crashing the Champions League places but they ’ ve given themselves a chance .
The three points was the most important thing but a first half goal has been much needed .
Wolves have given themselves mountains to climb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first half of games is rather terrible .
They hadn ’ t managed a goal in the first half of each of their previous six Premier League matches but Daniel Podence , with a quick pirouette on the stroke of half-time to fool Lucas Digne , helped Jimenez put paid to that .
It was no more than Wolves ’ first half performance deserved after Nuno Espirito Santo sent his team out to attack .
And not just for opposing teams ’ defences .
Podence ’ s first Premier League start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trouble reinstating regular starters Adama Traore and Jota .
For the 70 minutes Podence was on the field he showed all of the qualities Wolves have been missing in recent weeks .
Until now Wolves haven ’ t had a player capable of playing in pockets behind the forwards and picking out killer passes .
In an exhilarating outing against Everton Podence showed those in attendance how imaginative and creative he can be .
Most Wolves fans thought they were getting a nimble , skilful winger with plenty of speed .
Judging by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a whole lot more .
One of the many positives to come out of the game was Portuguese forward Jota ending his goal drought .
He ’ d gone seven without a goal before he rediscovered the quality which makes him so potent against Everton .
Minutes before Jota lashed past Jordan Pickford he was presented with a similar opportunity - once more courtesy of an outrageous Ruben Neves pass .
However , on the first chance Jota had far too much time to think as he made his way towards Pickford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second , Jota didn ’ t have time to think .
Without a second thought he smacked a left-footed shot in at the near post .
Wolves fans watching will have had a sense of deja vu having watched Jota score near enough identical goals against Leicester and Manchester United previously .
When Jota plays naturally , he ’ s one hell of a footballer .
Until recently most presumed it would be a straight fight between Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez for Wolves ’ player of the year award .
But Neves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recent weeks .
The 23-year-old has been outstanding in Wolves ’ midfield since November and has now made himself more important than revered compatriot Joao Moutinho .
Neves put on another breathtaking display against Everton and combined two of his three greatest qualities to set Jota away to score the third .
He dispossessed Everton winger Bernard with ease before looking up and lifting a stunning 50-yard pass onto Jota ’ s left boot .
The third of those aforementioned talents is his unrivalled ability to score screamers , obviously .
At one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a guaranteed pick for Nuno .
He ’ s now once again the heartbeat of this team .
It should have been more !
If there is one criticism of Wolves after the complete performance it was that they should have hammered Everton .
Carlo Ancelotti was furious in his post-match assessment of his players and no doubt counted himself lucky that Wolves ’ forwards were in a forgiving mood .
As mentioned above , Jota missed a big chance before breaking his duck , while Adama Traore rattled the crossbar from six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves are to reel in Chelsea , who are five points in front of them , they need to make up a little bit of ground on goal difference .
Hopefully these missed chances don ’ t cost Wolves .

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Wolverhampton Wanderers returned to form in spectacular fashion with a 3-0 victory over Everton.
Strikes from Raul Jimenez, Leander Dendoncker and Diogo Jota ensured Wolves equalled their biggest Premier League win of the season and closed the gap on the top four.
Wolves will need to be faultless in their remaining three matches to stand a chance of gate-crashing the Champions League places but they’ve given themselves a chance.
Here’s our analysis from Molineux:
Wolves set the record straight
The three points was the most important thing but a first half goal has been much needed.
Wolves have given themselves mountains to climb at times this season and their record in the first half of games is rather terrible.
They hadn’t managed a goal in the first half of each of their previous six Premier League matches but Daniel Podence, with a quick pirouette on the stroke of half-time to fool Lucas Digne, helped Jimenez put paid to that.
It was no more than Wolves’ first half performance deserved after Nuno Espirito Santo sent his team out to attack.
(Image: Getty Images)
Podence is a problem
And not just for opposing teams’ defences. Podence’s first Premier League start was so good that Nuno will have trouble reinstating regular starters Adama Traore and Jota.
For the 70 minutes Podence was on the field he showed all of the qualities Wolves have been missing in recent weeks.
Until now Wolves haven’t had a player capable of playing in pockets behind the forwards and picking out killer passes. In an exhilarating outing against Everton Podence showed those in attendance how imaginative and creative he can be.
Most Wolves fans thought they were getting a nimble, skilful winger with plenty of speed. Judging by this performance, they have got that and a whole lot more.
Jota’s innate instinct
One of the many positives to come out of the game was Portuguese forward Jota ending his goal drought. He’d gone seven without a goal before he rediscovered the quality which makes him so potent against Everton.
Minutes before Jota lashed past Jordan Pickford he was presented with a similar opportunity - once more courtesy of an outrageous Ruben Neves pass.
However, on the first chance Jota had far too much time to think as he made his way towards Pickford and fluffed his lines.
(Image: Eddie Keogh NMC Pool)
On the second, Jota didn’t have time to think. Without a second thought he smacked a left-footed shot in at the near post.
Wolves fans watching will have had a sense of deja vu having watched Jota score near enough identical goals against Leicester and Manchester United previously.
When Jota plays naturally, he’s one hell of a footballer.
Neves’ late charge
Until recently most presumed it would be a straight fight between Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez for Wolves’ player of the year award.
But Neves has perhaps edged ahead of them in recent weeks.
The 23-year-old has been outstanding in Wolves’ midfield since November and has now made himself more important than revered compatriot Joao Moutinho.
Neves put on another breathtaking display against Everton and combined two of his three greatest qualities to set Jota away to score the third.
He dispossessed Everton winger Bernard with ease before looking up and lifting a stunning 50-yard pass onto Jota’s left boot.
The third of those aforementioned talents is his unrivalled ability to score screamers, obviously.
At one stage this season Neves wasn’t a guaranteed pick for Nuno. He’s now once again the heartbeat of this team.
It should have been more!
If there is one criticism of Wolves after the complete performance it was that they should have hammered Everton.
Carlo Ancelotti was furious in his post-match assessment of his players and no doubt counted himself lucky that Wolves’ forwards were in a forgiving mood.
As mentioned above, Jota missed a big chance before breaking his duck, while Adama Traore rattled the crossbar from six yards with the goal gaping.
If Wolves are to reel in Chelsea, who are five points in front of them, they need to make up a little bit of ground on goal difference. Hopefully these missed chances don’t cost Wolves.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Prison officer who had affair with inmate she was 'infatuated with' spared jail

A prison officer has been given a suspended sentence after striking up a romance with an inmate she became `` infatuated '' with .
Libby Shankland , 24 , exchanged 14,000 phone calls and almost 5,000 text messages over four months with convicted drug dealer Adnan Ali , who used an illicit mobile phone while in jail .
Cardiff Crown Court heard Shankland 's relationship with Ali , 23 , was discovered when concerns were raised about G4S staff at HM Parc Prison in Bridgend , South Wales , in December last year .
Prosecutor David Pinnell said Shankland , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prisoners aged 18-25 where there had been `` general unrest '' , was interviewed by a senior officer when she became upset and broke into floods of tears .
She admitted being in a relationship with Ali , who was serving a five-and-a-half year sentence for supplying class A drugs , and provided `` intelligence '' on other inmates before allowing officers to take her mobile phone .
But before the phone could be passed to another colleague ahead of it being examined , it rang `` four to five '' times , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symbols as the caller ID .
Mr Pinnell said : `` She immediately offered her resignation on December 2 and it was accepted . ''
Police analysed Shankland 's mobile and found a total of 4,778 text messages had been exchanged between herself and a phone ID matching Ali 's , with more than 2,000 messages sent in each direction .
Mr Pinnell said : `` The texts were of a flirtatious nature , and at one point referred to kisses having taken place between her and Mr Ali while she was at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total of just over 8,000 connections to Mr Ali 's phone and just under 6,000 from Mr Ali in the other direction to hers . ''
Mr Pinnell said texts confirmed they considered themselves `` boyfriend and girlfriend '' , and talk turned to marriage and the possibility of having children together .
He added : `` It 's clear from the texts she was completely infatuated with him . ''
Mr Pinnell said one of the phone calls lasted for a total of seven hours , while Shankland was off duty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two hours .
Shankland , who had worked as a prisoner officer for 12 months , told police she knew Ali had use of an illicit phone while he was in prison , and said it was he who had started contacting her via Snapchat after getting her number .
She also said they would contact each other `` all the time '' when she was off duty , admitting she knew he was taking drugs when she was not there , and feeling `` conflicted '' after `` falling in love '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Shankland later pleaded guilty to misconduct in judicial or public office .
Andrew Davies , defending , said Shankland 's `` remorse and shame is genuine '' .
He described her as a `` hard working '' and `` talented lady '' who had previously moved to London after university , where the breakdown of a relationship had led to her being diagnosed with depression and becoming `` vulnerable '' .
Mr Davies said : `` She was clearly struggling .
And in the prosecution case , its first witness describes her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ link . ''
He added : `` She was vulnerable and she was taken advantage of . ''
Judge Richard Twomlow said : `` This was a serious breach of duty as mobile phones in prison , especially with someone in there for drug-dealing , is prohibited for very good reason indeed . ''
He added : `` Prison officers have to do a very difficult and challenging job .
It seems to me you were really unsuited for that job . ''
The judge admitted one of the factors in deciding not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` current situation in the country with the pandemic and how it affects those in prison '' .
Shankland , from North Cornelly , Bridgend , was sentenced to 12 months in custody suspended for 12 months , and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work .
Deputy director of HMP Parc Ian Coles said : `` We expect the highest standards of conduct from our team and we will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the good work of our colleagues .
`` Should we suspect wrongdoing , we will always share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I 'd like to thank my team and South Wales Police for their exemplary work . ''

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A prison officer has been given a suspended sentence after striking up a romance with an inmate she became "infatuated" with.
Libby Shankland, 24, exchanged 14,000 phone calls and almost 5,000 text messages over four months with convicted drug dealer Adnan Ali, who used an illicit mobile phone while in jail.
Cardiff Crown Court heard Shankland's relationship with Ali, 23, was discovered when concerns were raised about G4S staff at HM Parc Prison in Bridgend, South Wales, in December last year.
Prosecutor David Pinnell said Shankland, who worked on the B3 wing holding prisoners aged 18-25 where there had been "general unrest", was interviewed by a senior officer when she became upset and broke into floods of tears.
She admitted being in a relationship with Ali, who was serving a five-and-a-half year sentence for supplying class A drugs, and provided "intelligence" on other inmates before allowing officers to take her mobile phone.
But before the phone could be passed to another colleague ahead of it being examined, it rang "four to five" times, displaying Ali's name and love heart symbols as the caller ID.
Mr Pinnell said: "She immediately offered her resignation on December 2 and it was accepted."
Police analysed Shankland's mobile and found a total of 4,778 text messages had been exchanged between herself and a phone ID matching Ali's, with more than 2,000 messages sent in each direction.
Mr Pinnell said: "The texts were of a flirtatious nature, and at one point referred to kisses having taken place between her and Mr Ali while she was at work.
"Further analysis showed a total of just over 8,000 connections to Mr Ali's phone and just under 6,000 from Mr Ali in the other direction to hers."
Mr Pinnell said texts confirmed they considered themselves "boyfriend and girlfriend", and talk turned to marriage and the possibility of having children together.
He added: "It's clear from the texts she was completely infatuated with him."
Mr Pinnell said one of the phone calls lasted for a total of seven hours, while Shankland was off duty, with 48 calls lasting between one and two hours.
Shankland, who had worked as a prisoner officer for 12 months, told police she knew Ali had use of an illicit phone while he was in prison, and said it was he who had started contacting her via Snapchat after getting her number.
She also said they would contact each other "all the time" when she was off duty, admitting she knew he was taking drugs when she was not there, and feeling "conflicted" after "falling in love" despite receiving training against corruption by prisoners.
Shankland later pleaded guilty to misconduct in judicial or public office.
Andrew Davies, defending, said Shankland's "remorse and shame is genuine".
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He described her as a "hard working" and "talented lady" who had previously moved to London after university, where the breakdown of a relationship had led to her being diagnosed with depression and becoming "vulnerable".
Mr Davies said: "She was clearly struggling. And in the prosecution case, its first witness describes her as lacking confidence and being the weak link."
He added: "She was vulnerable and she was taken advantage of."
Judge Richard Twomlow said: "This was a serious breach of duty as mobile phones in prison, especially with someone in there for drug-dealing, is prohibited for very good reason indeed."
He added: "Prison officers have to do a very difficult and challenging job. It seems to me you were really unsuited for that job."
The judge admitted one of the factors in deciding not to send Shankland to prison was the "current situation in the country with the pandemic and how it affects those in prison".
Shankland, from North Cornelly, Bridgend, was sentenced to 12 months in custody suspended for 12 months, and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work.
Deputy director of HMP Parc Ian Coles said: "We expect the highest standards of conduct from our team and we will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the good work of our colleagues.
"Should we suspect wrongdoing, we will always share intelligence with the police and other agencies.
"I'd like to thank my team and South Wales Police for their exemplary work."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Police arrest 12-year-old Aston Villa fan after Zaha racist abuse

West Midlands Police have made an arrest after Wilfried Zaha was sent a series of racist messages ahead of Crystal Palace 's clash against Aston Villa .
Police confirmed on Sunday they have arrested a 12-year-old boy over the messages sent to Zaha on social media .
Ahead of the Premier League match at Villa Park , which the hosts won 2-0 , Zaha posted a number of screenshots revealing several racist messages from one user claiming to be a Villa fan .
Zaha tweeted the abuse and added the caption : `` Woke up to this today . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here Police had earlier confirmed they were investigating the incident and have now made an arrest .
In a tweet , West Midlands Police said : `` We were alerted to a series of racist messages sent to a footballer today and after looking into them and conducting checks , we have arrested a boy .
`` The 12-year-old from # Solihull has been taken to custody .
Thanks to everyone who raised it .
Racism wo n't be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supported his player 's decision to post the abuse on a public platform .
Hodgson told the club 's website : `` It is very saddening on the day of a game that a player wakes up to this cowardly and despicable abuse .
`` I think it is right that Wilf made people aware of it ; I do n't think it is something he should keep quiet about .
`` I think it is very good that our club , Aston Villa and the Premier League are doing everything they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is and one can only hope that they will get identified and they will get called to account and they will pay for these actions .
`` There is literally no excuse ; there is no excuse at all . ''
Villa posted a statement which said : “ We deplore the disgusting racist messages sent to @ wilfriedzaha .
“ We condemn all forms of racial discrimination and stand with @ CPFC .
We are working with the police in investigating this extremely serious matter and when the culprit is identified AVFC @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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West Midlands Police have made an arrest after Wilfried Zaha was sent a series of racist messages ahead of Crystal Palace's clash against Aston Villa.
Police confirmed on Sunday they have arrested a 12-year-old boy over the messages sent to Zaha on social media.
Ahead of the Premier League match at Villa Park, which the hosts won 2-0, Zaha posted a number of screenshots revealing several racist messages from one user claiming to be a Villa fan.
Zaha tweeted the abuse and added the caption: "Woke up to this today."
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Police had earlier confirmed they were investigating the incident and have now made an arrest.
In a tweet, West Midlands Police said: "We were alerted to a series of racist messages sent to a footballer today and after looking into them and conducting checks, we have arrested a boy.
"The 12-year-old from #Solihull has been taken to custody. Thanks to everyone who raised it. Racism won't be tolerated."
Palace manager Roy Hodgson supported his player's decision to post the abuse on a public platform.
Hodgson told the club's website: "It is very saddening on the day of a game that a player wakes up to this cowardly and despicable abuse.
"I think it is right that Wilf made people aware of it; I don't think it is something he should keep quiet about.
"I think it is very good that our club, Aston Villa and the Premier League are doing everything they can to find out who this despicable individual is and one can only hope that they will get identified and they will get called to account and they will pay for these actions.
"There is literally no excuse; there is no excuse at all."
Villa posted a statement which said: “We deplore the disgusting racist messages sent to @wilfriedzaha.
“We condemn all forms of racial discrimination and stand with @CPFC . We are working with the police in investigating this extremely serious matter and when the culprit is identified AVFC will issue a lifetime ban.”


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Steve Spooner slates Birmingham City's defending in Stoke defeat

Steve Spooner admits it might have been a gamble to change formation at Stoke City but insists it was Birmingham City ’ s poor defending which cost them at the Bet 365 Stadium .
The caretaker opted to go with three at the back in Sunday ’ s 2-0 defeat , a result that saw the Potters move above Blues in the Championship table .
Blues remain four points above the relegation zone - but after four successive defeats seemingly relying on external events to secure their second-tier status .
Asked if it was risky to change the team shape @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a couple of training sessions , Spooner said : “ Possibly .
Once again hindsight .
Sign up to our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here “ It isn ’ t so much about formations and shapes when we are not defending the ball well enough there .
It ’ s a case of people being switched on .
`` If we stayed a 4-4-2 people would be saying ‘ Why haven ’ t we gone to a three when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back four , why haven ’ t we tried something different ?
’ “ It ’ s one of them where you are damned if you do , damned if you don ’ t .
`` We tried something but like I say it wasn ’ t so much about the formation , it was our application to recognising danger .
“ For both goals I am very disappointed with our response to the goals , in terms of the way they developed .
“ The first one was a short corner , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get out too quick , don ’ t get enough pressure on the ball and we don ’ t defend it well enough .
“ The second goal was a throw-in , about ten yards inside our defensive half and a lad has broken off , run with it and put it in the top corner .
“ If we are going to be serious about what we are trying to do we can not be giving teams those kind of opportunities .
“ That said , I thought we responded well after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started to control the game a bit more , had more possession but like I said , which was a common denominator over the 90 minutes , we did not create enough opportunities to score goals .
“ We had periods of possession but possession without creating anything isn ’ t good enough and that ’ s something we must work on .
”

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Steve Spooner admits it might have been a gamble to change formation at Stoke City but insists it was Birmingham City’s poor defending which cost them at the Bet 365 Stadium.
The caretaker opted to go with three at the back in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat, a result that saw the Potters move above Blues in the Championship table.
Blues remain four points above the relegation zone - but after four successive defeats seemingly relying on external events to secure their second-tier status.
Asked if it was risky to change the team shape after a game in midweek and just a couple of training sessions, Spooner said: “Possibly. Once again hindsight.
Sign up to our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here
“It isn’t so much about formations and shapes when we are not defending the ball well enough there. It’s a case of people being switched on.
"If we stayed a 4-4-2 people would be saying ‘Why haven’t we gone to a three when we have been conceding goals with a flat back four, why haven’t we tried something different?’
“It’s one of them where you are damned if you do, damned if you don’t.
"We tried something but like I say it wasn’t so much about the formation, it was our application to recognising danger.
“For both goals I am very disappointed with our response to the goals, in terms of the way they developed.
“The first one was a short corner, we are not switched on, we get out too quick, don’t get enough pressure on the ball and we don’t defend it well enough.
“The second goal was a throw-in, about ten yards inside our defensive half and a lad has broken off, run with it and put it in the top corner.
“If we are going to be serious about what we are trying to do we cannot be giving teams those kind of opportunities.
“That said, I thought we responded well after the first goal, settled down, started to control the game a bit more, had more possession but like I said, which was a common denominator over the 90 minutes, we did not create enough opportunities to score goals.
“We had periods of possession but possession without creating anything isn’t good enough and that’s something we must work on.”


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Inside huge 100-person illegal rave shut down by police

Police were forced to shut down an illegal rave attended by more than 100 party-goers just a week after the coronavirus lockdown eased .
Eagle-eyed officers clocked the huge gathering inside an industrial unit behind Walsall College late on Saturday night , July 11 .
The rave was rumbled after two officers on patrol heard - then saw - the party taking place on Portland Street sometime before 11pm .
Despite strict Covid-19 rules still in place , over 100 attendees were found inside - including one person who was wanted by West Midlands Police .
The wanted crook was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked together to 'peacefully disperse ' the gathering .
Police shared images of a large empty space , with views of Walsall College from the outdoor area , after the rave was shut down .
A huge sound system could be seen stacked up in the corner of the venue while wheelie bins were placed outside for the subsequent clear up .
Officers from St Matthews Police tweeted : `` Thanks to the eagle eyes/ears of PC Treherne and PC Foxall , Team 3 officers along with ResponseWMP and BlakenallWMP have closed down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in Bloxwich .
`` 1 attendee also in custody for being Wanted # teamwork . ''
The rave was not connected to the nearby college .

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Police were forced to shut down an illegal rave attended by more than 100 party-goers just a week after the coronavirus lockdown eased.
Eagle-eyed officers clocked the huge gathering inside an industrial unit behind Walsall College late on Saturday night, July 11.
The rave was rumbled after two officers on patrol heard - then saw - the party taking place on Portland Street sometime before 11pm.
Despite strict Covid-19 rules still in place, over 100 attendees were found inside - including one person who was wanted by West Midlands Police.
(Image: WMP)
The wanted crook was hauled into police custody as several officers worked together to 'peacefully disperse' the gathering.
Police shared images of a large empty space, with views of Walsall College from the outdoor area, after the rave was shut down.
A huge sound system could be seen stacked up in the corner of the venue while wheelie bins were placed outside for the subsequent clear up.
Officers from St Matthews Police tweeted: "Thanks to the eagle eyes/ears of PC Treherne and PC Foxall, Team 3 officers along with ResponseWMP and BlakenallWMP have closed down an illegal rave containing more than 100 people in Bloxwich.
"1 attendee also in custody for being Wanted #teamwork."
The rave was not connected to the nearby college.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish fumes with Manchester United contradiction

Jack Grealish has spoken out about the penalty incident that occurred during Aston Villa 's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace earlier today .
After Trezeguet 's opener - and a disallowed Palace goal - Villa claimed , and were awarded , a penalty after Patrick Van Aanholt and Grealish appeared to collide - with the TV angle showing the Palace defender stepping onto Grealish 's foot .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here However , VAR overruled the on-pitch decision , with other viewing angles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Van Aanholt .
Grealish - who was n't quite sure of the event himself - managed to fire a shot at a controversy that occurred in Villa 's last match , a loss against Manchester United .
`` Well I went through .
I do n't know if I was going to shoot , or pass , or whatever .
I pulled my foot back and I think I 've just kicked him , '' said the Villa captain after the 2-0 win .
`` I 'm not too sure whether it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll have to see it back , but I think , you know , the penalty that got given against us in the week with Bruno Fernandes from Man Utd , If that 's a penalty then I 'm sure it should have been one today . ''
The decision Grealish referred to saw Manchester United awarded a penalty when Bruno Fernandes evaded the challenge of Ezri Konsa , only to step on the Villa defender .
While it was only worth a goal , Villa collapsed after the decision was made - @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Jack Grealish has spoken out about the penalty incident that occurred during Aston Villa's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace earlier today.
After Trezeguet's opener - and a disallowed Palace goal - Villa claimed, and were awarded, a penalty after Patrick Van Aanholt and Grealish appeared to collide - with the TV angle showing the Palace defender stepping onto Grealish's foot.
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However, VAR overruled the on-pitch decision, with other viewing angles revealing that Grealish had actually stepped on Van Aanholt.
Grealish - who wasn't quite sure of the event himself - managed to fire a shot at a controversy that occurred in Villa's last match, a loss against Manchester United.
"Well I went through. I don't know if I was going to shoot, or pass, or whatever. I pulled my foot back and I think I've just kicked him," said the Villa captain after the 2-0 win.
"I'm not too sure whether it was or wasn't a penalty. I'll have to see it back, but I think, you know, the penalty that got given against us in the week with Bruno Fernandes from Man Utd, If that's a penalty then I'm sure it should have been one today."
The decision Grealish referred to saw Manchester United awarded a penalty when Bruno Fernandes evaded the challenge of Ezri Konsa, only to step on the Villa defender.
While it was only worth a goal, Villa collapsed after the decision was made - with Grealish highlighting the contradiction today.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Aston Villa handed key Premier League survival boost

Aston Villa secured maximum points for the first time in almost six months to give their fight against relegation a much-needed shot in the arm .
Villa had been winless in their previous 10 Premier League matches prior to Crystal Palace 's arrival at B6 on Sunday .
Dean Smith 's side were 19th in the table and a huge seven points from safety before Trezeuget put two past Palace without reply to secure a vital victory .
VAR was involved again , ruling out a Mamadou Sakho goal just seven minutes in when the defender was adjudged to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past Pepe Reina .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here Trezeguet latched onto Conor Hourihane 's deflected free-kick to give Villa the lead in first-half injury time and after referee Martin Atkinson was overruled by the VAR after awarding a penalty for a challenge on Jack Grealish , Trezeguet struck again .
This time the Egypt winger pounced on a mistake by Sakho to slot home .
Villa still face an uphill battle to preserve their top-flight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday with the aim of eating away at the four-point gap to 17th .
Here 's what Villa fans had to say about the win : @ StevenKelson : I have to admit I was very downbeat and negative about today ’ s game but they smashed it , onto Thursday night now !
@ GeorgeHillman95 : 2 goals and a clean sheet , this is so un-Villa like , hopefully we take it down to the wire !
@ RichJones567 : Finally a performance to give us some hope .
Well played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win for # avfc .
A morale-boosting three points nearer the rest backed up by a much more determined show .
Luiz has been our star since restart , impressed by Conor and a vital save by Reina as Palace fought back .
It ’ s the hope that kills you - but we have hope !
@ ThomasTParker : I 'm fully believing we can survive now .
It 's the hope that kills you .
@ Eddiej1981 : Great performance .
Same application against Everton aho have nothing to play for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ham or Watford win on Friday .
Need one of them to win that game a draw does us no favours .
@ Jxcmmxguiree : I liked the changes Smith made today , made the team play better and look more dangerous .
@ B6_Dave : We show that determination and passion in our remaining games and we can do this .
Special mention for Luiz too , he 's the most improved player since lockdown .
His positioning and reading of the game has improved massively .
Looks a real player for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting Villa .
No reason why we ca n't beat Everton .
Way better than a poor Palace side today .

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Aston Villa secured maximum points for the first time in almost six months to give their fight against relegation a much-needed shot in the arm.
Villa had been winless in their previous 10 Premier League matches prior to Crystal Palace's arrival at B6 on Sunday.
Dean Smith's side were 19th in the table and a huge seven points from safety before Trezeuget put two past Palace without reply to secure a vital victory.
VAR was involved again, ruling out a Mamadou Sakho goal just seven minutes in when the defender was adjudged to have used him arm to steer the ball past Pepe Reina.
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Trezeguet latched onto Conor Hourihane's deflected free-kick to give Villa the lead in first-half injury time and after referee Martin Atkinson was overruled by the VAR after awarding a penalty for a challenge on Jack Grealish, Trezeguet struck again.
This time the Egypt winger pounced on a mistake by Sakho to slot home.
Villa still face an uphill battle to preserve their top-flight status but now travel to Everton on Thursday with the aim of eating away at the four-point gap to 17th.
Here's what Villa fans had to say about the win:
@StevenKelson: I have to admit I was very downbeat and negative about today’s game but they smashed it, onto Thursday night now!
@GeorgeHillman95: 2 goals and a clean sheet, this is so un-Villa like, hopefully we take it down to the wire!
@RichJones567: Finally a performance to give us some hope . Well played Villa.
@JonnyGould: A transformative win for #avfc. A morale-boosting three points nearer the rest backed up by a much more determined show. Luiz has been our star since restart, impressed by Conor and a vital save by Reina as Palace fought back. It’s the hope that kills you - but we have hope!
@ThomasTParker: I'm fully believing we can survive now. It's the hope that kills you.
@Eddiej1981: Great performance. Same application against Everton aho have nothing to play for now and sit back and watch West Ham or Watford win on Friday. Need one of them to win that game a draw does us no favours.
@Jxcmmxguiree: I liked the changes Smith made today, made the team play better and look more dangerous.
@B6_Dave: We show that determination and passion in our remaining games and we can do this. Special mention for Luiz too, he's the most improved player since lockdown. His positioning and reading of the game has improved massively. Looks a real player for us now.
@SteveSouthwell: Keep fighting Villa. No reason why we can't beat Everton. Way better than a poor Palace side today.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Dean Smith inspired Aston Villa to victory with 'cup final' cry

Dean Smith labelled today 's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace as a crucial 'semi-final first leg victory ' for drop-dreaded Aston Villa .
Trezeguet 's match-winning brace ended a streak of 10 games without a win for Villa who climb back to within four points of West Ham and Watford .
Villa go to Everton on Thursday with Smith claiming a win at Goodison Park will put Villa into a relegation shoot-out knowing their direct rivals face off against each other 24 hours later .
Speaking after Villa 's much-needed win , Smith said : `` I 've said many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performances have n't got the performances they 've deserved .
`` The analogy I used with the players today is today 's our first semi-final .
We ca n't control something elsewhere , just our performances .
`` This was our first semi-final and we needed to get through to the second leg .
Then we 'll go and look to get a win at Everton which is another tough game to play .
`` Get that win and it puts some scoreboard pressure on others . ''
On goal hero Trezeguet , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really well in the last two games .
He fully deserves his place .
`` Trez is another one who came into the place late last summer and it 's taken a while to adapt .
His attitude is spot on and he works his socks off . ''

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Dean Smith labelled today's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace as a crucial 'semi-final first leg victory' for drop-dreaded Aston Villa.
Trezeguet's match-winning brace ended a streak of 10 games without a win for Villa who climb back to within four points of West Ham and Watford.
Villa go to Everton on Thursday with Smith claiming a win at Goodison Park will put Villa into a relegation shoot-out knowing their direct rivals face off against each other 24 hours later.
Speaking after Villa's much-needed win, Smith said: "I've said many times before that since the Restart our performances haven't got the performances they've deserved.
"The analogy I used with the players today is today's our first semi-final. We can't control something elsewhere, just our performances.
"This was our first semi-final and we needed to get through to the second leg. Then we'll go and look to get a win at Everton which is another tough game to play.
"Get that win and it puts some scoreboard pressure on others."
On goal hero Trezeguet, Smith added: "He's performed really well in the last two games. He fully deserves his place.
"Trez is another one who came into the place late last summer and it's taken a while to adapt. His attitude is spot on and he works his socks off."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Man and woman arrested after driver seriously hurt in smash

A man and woman has been arrested after a motorist was left with serious arm injuries following a dramatic smash in West Bromwich .
West Midlands Police confirmed that the 33-year-old man was detained on suspicion of perverting the course justice following the horror crash in Holloway Bank at around 2.30pm on Sunday , July 12 .
And the 27-year-old woman was later arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene .
The other motorist , a man , was taken to Sandwell Hospital with a serious arm injury .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the force told BlackCountryLive .
The force 's spokesman added : `` We were called to a serious collision involving two cars on Holloway Bank in West Bromwich just before 2.30am this morning ( Sunday , July 12 ) .
`` One man has been taken to hospital with a serious arm injury , where he remains .
`` A 33-year-old man was arrested from the scene on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and remains in police custody along with a 27-year-old woman who was later arrested on suspicion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failing to stop at the scene . ''
Speaking at the time , a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said they were mobilised just after 2.30am and confirmed that one of the drivers had 'absconded ' .
They said : `` We were called to Holloway Bank , West Bromwich , to reports of a two-vehicle road traffic collision at 2.30am this morning ( July 12 ) .
`` Driver of one of the vehicles has absconded and the driver of the other was taken to Sandwell Hospital . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime .
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Quote log 496 of July 12 .

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A man and woman has been arrested after a motorist was left with serious arm injuries following a dramatic smash in West Bromwich.
West Midlands Police confirmed that the 33-year-old man was detained on suspicion of perverting the course justice following the horror crash in Holloway Bank at around 2.30pm on Sunday, July 12.
And the 27-year-old woman was later arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene.
The other motorist, a man, was taken to Sandwell Hospital with a serious arm injury. He remains in hospital today, a spokesman for the force told BlackCountryLive.
The force's spokesman added: "We were called to a serious collision involving two cars on Holloway Bank in West Bromwich just before 2.30am this morning (Sunday, July 12).
"One man has been taken to hospital with a serious arm injury, where he remains.
(Image: Handout)
"A 33-year-old man was arrested from the scene on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and remains in police custody along with a 27-year-old woman who was later arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene."
Speaking at the time, a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said they were mobilised just after 2.30am and confirmed that one of the drivers had 'absconded'.
They said: "We were called to Holloway Bank, West Bromwich, to reports of a two-vehicle road traffic collision at 2.30am this morning (July 12).
"Driver of one of the vehicles has absconded and the driver of the other was taken to Sandwell Hospital."
Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime.
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote log 496 of July 12.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Cops shame Fast & Furious fan who 'hit 104mph on M5'

Police have shamed a motorway driver after he was reportedly caught driving at speeds of up to 104mph .
The motorist , boasting a 'Fast and Furious ' sticker in his car , was dealt with as Worcestershire police officers carried out a speed Operation on the busy M5 on Sunday , July 12 .
Ironically , his car carried a quote attributed to the late US movie star Paul Walker stating : `` If one day speed kills me , do n't cry because I was smiling . ''
The Fast and Furious film star later died in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was just one of 15 motorists 'dealt with ' for excess speed on the Southbound carriageway between J7 and J8 .
Officers said the drivers were all travelling between 90mph and 104mph on the motorway - more than 30 miles over the speed limit .
Highlighting the grave dangers of speeding , OPU Worcestershire wrote : `` B unit - I took a picture of this today whilst on a speed Op .
`` 15 motorists ( including the stickered car ) dealt with for excess speed - speeds between 90 & 104mph @ @ @ @ @ @

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Police have shamed a motorway driver after he was reportedly caught driving at speeds of up to 104mph.
The motorist, boasting a 'Fast and Furious' sticker in his car, was dealt with as Worcestershire police officers carried out a speed Operation on the busy M5 on Sunday, July 12.
Ironically, his car carried a quote attributed to the late US movie star Paul Walker stating: "If one day speed kills me, don't cry because I was smiling."
The Fast and Furious film star later died in a car crash.
The brazen M5 driver was just one of 15 motorists 'dealt with' for excess speed on the Southbound carriageway between J7 and J8.
Officers said the drivers were all travelling between 90mph and 104mph on the motorway - more than 30 miles over the speed limit.
Highlighting the grave dangers of speeding, OPU Worcestershire wrote: "B unit - I took a picture of this today whilst on a speed Op.
"15 motorists (including the stickered car) dealt with for excess speed - speeds between 90 & 104mph on the M5 South J7-8.
"#fatal4 #speedkills #slowdown."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Drivers shamed for clocking 110mph during street race on A38

Three motorists caught hitting speeds of more than 100mph during an illegal 'drag race ' on the A38 have been shamed by cops .
Staffordshire Police 's traffic unit said the drivers were all stopped and reported for a variety of offences following the shocking display near Bassetts Pole at around 1am on Sunday , July 12 .
In a photo , which was shared by officers , a car cruising injunction sign can also be seen at the side of the dual carriageway as the trio tear along the road at 110mph .
A spokesman for the force added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and anti-sociable behaviour driving at Bassetts Pole working alongside Lichfield Police , Traffic West Midlands Police and Warwickshire Police .
`` Three cars are seen racing each other whilst over 100mph !
All drivers stopped and reported for dangerous driving . ''
The High Court order bans people from taking part in car cruising , including speeding , racing and driving in convoy , performing stunts and causing an obstruction on a public highway across Birmingham , Solihull and the Black Country .
Chief Superintendent Ian Green , lead for Operation Hercules , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of work going on to tackle this issue as we know many people are concerned about anti-social and dangerous activity .
`` We carry out regular operations across the force in response to concerns raised by communities .
These are also now supported by police drone pilots who gather information on offenders .
`` It ’ s all part of our ongoing commitment to listen to what our communities are telling us they are concerned about and taking action against offenders .
`` Operations like this should act as a stark warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive dangerously or anti-socially on our roads .
We won ’ t tolerate this behaviour , especially during the current pandemic .
We ’ re determined to bring offenders to justice and keep our roads safe . ''

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Three motorists caught hitting speeds of more than 100mph during an illegal 'drag race' on the A38 have been shamed by cops.
Staffordshire Police's traffic unit said the drivers were all stopped and reported for a variety of offences following the shocking display near Bassetts Pole at around 1am on Sunday, July 12.
In a photo, which was shared by officers, a car cruising injunction sign can also be seen at the side of the dual carriageway as the trio tear along the road at 110mph.
A spokesman for the force added: "We continue to tackle dangerous and anti-sociable behaviour driving at Bassetts Pole working alongside Lichfield Police, Traffic West Midlands Police and Warwickshire Police.
"Three cars are seen racing each other whilst over 100mph! All drivers stopped and reported for dangerous driving."
The High Court order bans people from taking part in car cruising, including speeding, racing and driving in convoy, performing stunts and causing an obstruction on a public highway across Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country.
Chief Superintendent Ian Green, lead for Operation Hercules, said: "There is a huge amount of work going on to tackle this issue as we know many people are concerned about anti-social and dangerous activity.
"We carry out regular operations across the force in response to concerns raised by communities. These are also now supported by police drone pilots who gather information on offenders.
"It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to listen to what our communities are telling us they are concerned about and taking action against offenders.
"Operations like this should act as a stark warning to any motorist who thinks they can drive dangerously or anti-socially on our roads. We won’t tolerate this behaviour, especially during the current pandemic. We’re determined to bring offenders to justice and keep our roads safe."


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Premier League give reason for Christian Benteke's red card

Aston Villa handed themselves a huge lifeline in their battle against relegation from the Premier League – and there was some drama after their 2-0 win over Crystal Palace .
Dean Smith ’ s side had it all to do ahead of kick-off , with seven points separating them from safety with just four games left .
And early on , it looked as though the writing might be on the wall when Mamadou Sakho seemingly headed the visitors into the lead , only for VAR to give Villa a much-needed boost as it controversially ruled it out for handball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off the defender ’ s shoulder .
Villa would capitalise on their let-off , and moments before half-time , Trezeguet fired them into the lead to give them a glimmer of hope .
Nerves would have been frayed when VAR worked against them shortly after the break , with Jack Grealish being denied a penalty after Martin Atkinson has pointed to the spot following Patrick van Aanholt ’ s challenge .
It wouldn ’ t prove to be crucial though , as Trezeguet added a second just before the hour-mark to earn his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give them a major boost heading into their final three games .
With tensions running high during the business end of the season , you can understand emotions getting the better of some players , and it seems it all got a bit too much for one former Villa man .
In a moment you may have missed , Christian Benteke was sent off after the final whistle , although with the incident occurring while Sky Sport ’ s coverage had gone to an advert break , and of course no fans in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear why the striker saw red .
According to those in attendance at the game , the former Villa man was sent off for “ foul and abusive language ” , with the Premier League then clearing up that he was shown the red card “ following an off-the-ball incident with Ezri Konsa ” .
Benteke endured a frustrating return to Villa Park as his Palace side suffered another defeat , and having been shown a straight red card , the Belgium international now looks set to miss the remainder of the Premier @ @ @

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Aston Villa handed themselves a huge lifeline in their battle against relegation from the Premier League – and there was some drama after their 2-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Dean Smith’s side had it all to do ahead of kick-off, with seven points separating them from safety with just four games left.
And early on, it looked as though the writing might be on the wall when Mamadou Sakho seemingly headed the visitors into the lead, only for VAR to give Villa a much-needed boost as it controversially ruled it out for handball, despite replays showing the ball came off the defender’s shoulder.
Villa would capitalise on their let-off, and moments before half-time, Trezeguet fired them into the lead to give them a glimmer of hope.
Nerves would have been frayed when VAR worked against them shortly after the break, with Jack Grealish being denied a penalty after Martin Atkinson has pointed to the spot following Patrick van Aanholt’s challenge.
It wouldn’t prove to be crucial though, as Trezeguet added a second just before the hour-mark to earn his side a vital three points, and give them a major boost heading into their final three games.
With tensions running high during the business end of the season, you can understand emotions getting the better of some players, and it seems it all got a bit too much for one former Villa man.
(Image: Getty Images)
In a moment you may have missed, Christian Benteke was sent off after the final whistle, although with the incident occurring while Sky Sport’s coverage had gone to an advert break, and of course no fans in attendance, it wasn’t immediately clear why the striker saw red.
According to those in attendance at the game, the former Villa man was sent off for “foul and abusive language”, with the Premier League then clearing up that he was shown the red card “following an off-the-ball incident with Ezri Konsa”.
Benteke endured a frustrating return to Villa Park as his Palace side suffered another defeat, and having been shown a straight red card, the Belgium international now looks set to miss the remainder of the Premier League season.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--All the action as inspired Aston Villa blow away Crystal Palace

Match gallery | All the best photos as Villa seal a win against Crystal Palace It 's not over yet for Aston Villa !
A thrilling Trezeguet double was enough to give a strong Villa side the lead and victory despite defensive injury issues - with both Neil Taylor and Matt Targett succumbing to injury .
The doubl keeps Dean Smith 's side alive and kicking in the fight for survival , and the much-needed 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace is Villa 's first win in the Premier League in 11 attempts dating back to Watford almost six months ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was heavily involved but , on this occasion , it went in Villa 's favour .
Disaster almost struck just seven minutes in when Mamadou Sakho bundled the ball into Pepe Reina 's net .
Referee Martin Atkinson was overruled by VAR Jonathan Moss , though , after he adjudged the Palace defender to use his upper part of his arm to deflect the ball home .
Villa breathed a sigh a relief and it was game on once again .
Villa rallied soon after and Ahmed Elmohamady - in for the injured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in telling deliveries .
The Egyptian found Mbwana Samatta and Jack Grealish early on but the duo lacked finishes .
The deadlock was broken in first-half injury time .
Captain Grealish was fouled by Cheikhou Kouyate before Conor Hourihane 's deep free-kick deflected off Joel Ward 's head and found Trezeguet .
The winger finished with aplomb first time wit his side foot to give Villa a leg up before the break .
VAR was again in use to chalk off a penalty call just after the break .
Grealish , enjoying much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clumsy Patrick van Aanholt - only for Moss to intervene and rule that Villa 's No.10 had in fact trod on van Aanholt 's foot .
Just 10 minutes later , the screams from Smith and his coaching staff reverberated all around the empty Villa Park after Trezeguet poked home his second .
It was instigated by the brilliant Hourihane who won a crucial header which forced Sakho into a mistake .
The French defender allowed the ball to slip underneath him and Trezeguet 's eye lit up to slide the ball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his knees .
Palace applied a little pressure late on .
Reina did well to save with his feet once more to deny van Aanholt .
Ex-Villan Christian Benteke turned villain after being sent off on the final whistle for kicking out at Konsa .
Villa , though , held out for the all-important win to cut the gap at the bottom to four points once again with just four to play .
Up next , Villa go to struggling Everton as rivals West Ham and Watford face off against each other this @ @ @

Match gallery | All the best photos as Villa seal a win against Crystal Palace
It's not over yet for Aston Villa!
A thrilling Trezeguet double was enough to give a strong Villa side the lead and victory despite defensive injury issues - with both Neil Taylor and Matt Targett succumbing to injury.
The doubl keeps Dean Smith's side alive and kicking in the fight for survival, and the much-needed 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace is Villa's first win in the Premier League in 11 attempts dating back to Watford almost six months ago.
Once again in B6, VAR was heavily involved but, on this occasion, it went in Villa's favour. Disaster almost struck just seven minutes in when Mamadou Sakho bundled the ball into Pepe Reina's net. Referee Martin Atkinson was overruled by VAR Jonathan Moss, though, after he adjudged the Palace defender to use his upper part of his arm to deflect the ball home. Villa breathed a sigh a relief and it was game on once again.
Villa rallied soon after and Ahmed Elmohamady - in for the injured Kortney Hause prior to kick-off - whipped in telling deliveries. The Egyptian found Mbwana Samatta and Jack Grealish early on but the duo lacked finishes.
The deadlock was broken in first-half injury time. Captain Grealish was fouled by Cheikhou Kouyate before Conor Hourihane's deep free-kick deflected off Joel Ward's head and found Trezeguet. The winger finished with aplomb first time wit his side foot to give Villa a leg up before the break.
VAR was again in use to chalk off a penalty call just after the break. Grealish, enjoying much of the ball, was tripped by the clumsy Patrick van Aanholt - only for Moss to intervene and rule that Villa's No.10 had in fact trod on van Aanholt's foot.
Just 10 minutes later, the screams from Smith and his coaching staff reverberated all around the empty Villa Park after Trezeguet poked home his second. It was instigated by the brilliant Hourihane who won a crucial header which forced Sakho into a mistake. The French defender allowed the ball to slip underneath him and Trezeguet's eye lit up to slide the ball underneath Guaita before celebrating by sliding on his knees.
Palace applied a little pressure late on. Reina did well to save with his feet once more to deny van Aanholt. Ex-Villan Christian Benteke turned villain after being sent off on the final whistle for kicking out at Konsa.
Villa, though, held out for the all-important win to cut the gap at the bottom to four points once again with just four to play. Up next, Villa go to struggling Everton as rivals West Ham and Watford face off against each other this upcoming Friday.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--The gamble which backfired on Birmingham City at Stoke

The disastrous tactical decision to switch to a three-man defence cost Birmingham City dear in their 2-0 defeat to Stoke City .
It was naive , ill-conceived and costly .
It handed a side that just been battered 5-0 a few days earlier the opportunity to assert themselves .
While Blues tried to feel their way into the game , find their feet with their new set-up and ease gently through the gears , Stoke were invited to take control and the only surprise was that it took 12 minutes for the inevitable goal to come .
Beleaguered Stoke might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was never going to look that particular gift horse in the mouth and in truth they deserved to lead by more than two goals at the break .
Sign up to our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here They would have but for two strikes of Lee Camp ’ s crossbar and a sharp save from the veteran goalkeeper to deny James McClean .
And it ’ s not just the benefit of hindsight that tells us that , the lessons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terms of recent history and what happened in the second half .
Blues have dabbled with a three-man defence at various points over the last couple of seasons .
Harry Redknapp tried with these players – and quickly dispensed with it after a pitiful home defeat to Reading .
Pep Clotet wanted to implement last summer – and even started the campaign with it – but binned the system after an entire pre-season of preparation .
It was always going to be a massive gamble to return to that on the basis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made it even more risky was the personnel deployed .
Wes Harding , is a very solid citizen at right full back .
He has even produced some credible displays at left full back – notably against West Brom in the first game after the restart – but left wing back was not a fair ask .
It wasn ’ t fair to Harding and it wasn ’ t fair to Nico Gordon , the 18-year-old defender who was making his debut behind him .
It is difficult enough coming in for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new system and triply so in such a significant game .
Quadruply so on such a short turnaround .
It ’ s all very well claiming the 20:20 vision of hindsight but experience should have told the coaching staff this was too big a risk .
The immediate improvement after the break , with a back four and the dangerous Jeremie Bela on the field was testament to that and one can only wonder at the thought process and decision-making behind the gamble .

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The disastrous tactical decision to switch to a three-man defence cost Birmingham City dear in their 2-0 defeat to Stoke City.
It was naive, ill-conceived and costly.
It handed a side that just been battered 5-0 a few days earlier the opportunity to assert themselves.
While Blues tried to feel their way into the game, find their feet with their new set-up and ease gently through the gears, Stoke were invited to take control and the only surprise was that it took 12 minutes for the inevitable goal to come.
Beleaguered Stoke might have been but a desperate home side was never going to look that particular gift horse in the mouth and in truth they deserved to lead by more than two goals at the break.
Sign up to our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here
They would have but for two strikes of Lee Camp’s crossbar and a sharp save from the veteran goalkeeper to deny James McClean.
And it’s not just the benefit of hindsight that tells us that, the lessons were there to be seen both in terms of recent history and what happened in the second half.
Blues have dabbled with a three-man defence at various points over the last couple of seasons.
Harry Redknapp tried with these players – and quickly dispensed with it after a pitiful home defeat to Reading.
Pep Clotet wanted to implement last summer – and even started the campaign with it – but binned the system after an entire pre-season of preparation.
It was always going to be a massive gamble to return to that on the basis of a couple of training sessions.
(Image: PA)
What made it even more risky was the personnel deployed. Wes Harding, is a very solid citizen at right full back.
He has even produced some credible displays at left full back – notably against West Brom in the first game after the restart – but left wing back was not a fair ask.
It wasn’t fair to Harding and it wasn’t fair to Nico Gordon, the 18-year-old defender who was making his debut behind him.
It is difficult enough coming in for a first start, doubly so in a new system and triply so in such a significant game. Quadruply so on such a short turnaround.
It’s all very well claiming the 20:20 vision of hindsight but experience should have told the coaching staff this was too big a risk.
The immediate improvement after the break, with a back four and the dangerous Jeremie Bela on the field was testament to that and one can only wonder at the thought process and decision-making behind the gamble.


birminghammail--2020-07-12--Ibiza reopens to Brits - what coronavirus rules to expect, what's open and more

Flights carrying British holidaymakers began arriving in Ibiza this weekend with TUI , the UK 's largest tour operator , restarting a limited number of holidays .
More than 500 sunseekers travelling on flights from Manchester and London to the Spanish island on Saturday were among the first to head there for a change of scene after months of lockdown at home .
But what can tourists flying there from the UK expect to find on the party island ?
Expat Brits in the tourist trade out there says new travel quarantine rules are a `` lifeline '' for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have revealed exactly what is in store if you decide to go to Ibiza this summer .
What owner of O Beach Ibiza and Bam Bu Ku said Duane Lineker , owner of the O Beach Ibiza club , said the Spanish island has already lost nearly half of its normal five to six-month tourist season due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Lineker , nephew of former England footballer Gary Lineker , argued it is the `` right time '' for British tourists to return to Ibiza .
`` Even now post-lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , although most are necessary it is still making business very difficult , '' he said .
`` I think most businesses would be overjoyed not to lose money this year . ''
He welcomed Friday 's changes to UK travel quarantine regulations meaning people visiting or returning from certain countries no longer have to self-isolate for two weeks .
`` It is a huge lifeline for Ibiza as the island 's biggest tourist numbers come from the UK , '' Mr Lineker said .
`` Our businesses specifically also mainly attract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Ibiza did an amazing job with maintaining low numbers of contagions and although extremely sad for us to have seen any deaths , the reality is that it was very low in comparison with lots of other communities in Spain or around Europe . ''
Mr Lineker , who also owns the Bam Bu Ku day club , acknowledged the `` slight risk '' to opening up tourism but argued health services were well prepared , with government restrictions in place .
He said : `` I think the main point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibility to be aware of our actions and be socially responsible . ''
Mr Lineker highlighted that his businesses has worked hard to adapt to make venues safe and operate at a `` lower tempo '' than normal .
He added : `` It will be hard to recreate a 'party ' vibe anywhere in the world with mass gatherings out of the question for this summer .
`` Summer 2020 is about indulging in other experiences and broadening the horizons a little from what we would usually consider the norm . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that will come to the island will still be able to have a great holiday and will be pleasantly surprised to find how many places are open and how good the atmosphere and the beauty of the island is . ''
What are the Covid-19 figures for Ibiza ?
According to figures from the Spanish Government , there have been a total of 2,249 diagnosed Covid-19 cases across the Balearic Islands during the pandemic , with 224 people dying with the illness .
There were 17 cases diagnosed on the islands in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths in that period .
What are the coronavirus restrictions ?
Starting on Monday , the Balearic Government will require people to wear face masks in all public spaces , excluding beaches , pools and when doing sports .
People breaching the rule risk a 100 euro fine ( £89.48 ) , while venues could be hit with penalties of 600,000 euro ( £536,897 ) if their operations create serious health risks .
The island 's super clubs , such as Ushuaia , are currently closed , but Mr Lineker 's open air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing rules from 1pm to 10pm .
Customers must stick to pre-booked sunbeds and are served by temperature-checked staff wearing face masks .
There are even plans for staff and guests to enter the premises through a `` disinfectant mist spray '' - although this is not yet in place .
Along the promenade of the west coast town of San Antonio , other terraced bars were open but beaches were quiet on Sunday morning .
What holidaymakers are saying Dave Clarke , 57 , a care home director from Bristol who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` This time of day the beach would be rammed even on a Sunday morning and it 's lovely ( but ) not good for tourism businesses . ''
Mr Clarke , who has been coming to the island for 15 years , said the family was not nervous about travelling , adding : `` Everybody is respectful - all the proprietors of businesses , there 's sanitiser everywhere . ''
His wife , Angie Clarke , also 57 , said : `` There 's very little open compared to what 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the bay across from San Antonio , Daniel Ryall , 23 , a civil engineer , and Olivia Cambridge , 24 , a finance assistant , both from London , were enjoying the start of their holiday .
`` When we go in our hotel there 's obviously hand sanitiser and stuff but we 've been doing it at home so it 's not different really , '' said Olivia .
`` We were only going to come for the party side of things but it 's not really a big deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted that at their hotel people were having their temperature checked on entry .
`` It 's not really that weird to be honest , '' he said .
`` It 's different but if anything it adds a bit more security , just makes you less nervous . ''
Martin Makepeace , who runs a property company in Ibiza and has lived there for 30 years , said the coronavirus pandemic has had a `` catastrophic '' affect on the economy .
`` 2020 is a matter of getting through the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then focus on 2021 , '' he said .
Mr Makepeace , president of the British Association for San Antonio , claimed a `` project fear '' is putting off some British tourists returning on holiday .
He said Italian and German tourists were `` reaping the benefit '' of entering lockdown earlier in their countries , accusing the UK Government of `` complete incompetence '' in its handling of the Covid-19 crisis .
`` Bringing in the quarantine after the horse had bolted did n't make any sense , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venture to Ibiza , where they would find it `` very chilled '' and not `` party , party '' .
`` It 's more focused on a daytime vibe , long lunches , beaches , swimming pools , '' he said .
`` Maybe the pandemic will give people the chance to see the real Ibiza and not just the inside of a discotheque . ''

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Flights carrying British holidaymakers began arriving in Ibiza this weekend with TUI, the UK's largest tour operator, restarting a limited number of holidays.
More than 500 sunseekers travelling on flights from Manchester and London to the Spanish island on Saturday were among the first to head there for a change of scene after months of lockdown at home.
But what can tourists flying there from the UK expect to find on the party island?
Expat Brits in the tourist trade out there says new travel quarantine rules are a "lifeline" for the industry.
And business owners and holidaymakers have revealed exactly what is in store if you decide to go to Ibiza this summer.
(Image: PA)
What owner of O Beach Ibiza and Bam Bu Ku said
Duane Lineker, owner of the O Beach Ibiza club, said the Spanish island has already lost nearly half of its normal five to six-month tourist season due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mr Lineker, nephew of former England footballer Gary Lineker, argued it is the "right time" for British tourists to return to Ibiza.
"Even now post-lockdown with, the new normal restrictions in place, although most are necessary it is still making business very difficult," he said. "I think most businesses would be overjoyed not to lose money this year."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
He welcomed Friday's changes to UK travel quarantine regulations meaning people visiting or returning from certain countries no longer have to self-isolate for two weeks.
"It is a huge lifeline for Ibiza as the island's biggest tourist numbers come from the UK," Mr Lineker said. "Our businesses specifically also mainly attract a British clientele."
He added: "Ibiza did an amazing job with maintaining low numbers of contagions and although extremely sad for us to have seen any deaths, the reality is that it was very low in comparison with lots of other communities in Spain or around Europe."
Mr Lineker, who also owns the Bam Bu Ku day club, acknowledged the "slight risk" to opening up tourism but argued health services were well prepared, with government restrictions in place.
He said: "I think the main point is just acknowledge we all have a responsibility to be aware of our actions and be socially responsible."
Mr Lineker highlighted that his businesses has worked hard to adapt to make venues safe and operate at a "lower tempo" than normal.
He added: "It will be hard to recreate a 'party' vibe anywhere in the world with mass gatherings out of the question for this summer.
"Summer 2020 is about indulging in other experiences and broadening the horizons a little from what we would usually consider the norm."
He added: "I think everyone that will come to the island will still be able to have a great holiday and will be pleasantly surprised to find how many places are open and how good the atmosphere and the beauty of the island is."
(Image: PA)
What are the Covid-19 figures for Ibiza?
According to figures from the Spanish Government, there have been a total of 2,249 diagnosed Covid-19 cases across the Balearic Islands during the pandemic, with 224 people dying with the illness.
There were 17 cases diagnosed on the islands in the seven days to July 9 and no deaths in that period.
What are the coronavirus restrictions?
Starting on Monday, the Balearic Government will require people to wear face masks in all public spaces, excluding beaches, pools and when doing sports.
People breaching the rule risk a 100 euro fine (£89.48), while venues could be hit with penalties of 600,000 euro (£536,897) if their operations create serious health risks.
The island's super clubs, such as Ushuaia, are currently closed, but Mr Lineker's open air O Beach venue operates with strict social distancing rules from 1pm to 10pm.
Customers must stick to pre-booked sunbeds and are served by temperature-checked staff wearing face masks.
There are even plans for staff and guests to enter the premises through a "disinfectant mist spray" - although this is not yet in place.
Along the promenade of the west coast town of San Antonio, other terraced bars were open but beaches were quiet on Sunday morning.
What holidaymakers are saying
Dave Clarke, 57, a care home director from Bristol who was on holiday with his family, said: "This time of day the beach would be rammed even on a Sunday morning and it's lovely (but) not good for tourism businesses."
Mr Clarke, who has been coming to the island for 15 years, said the family was not nervous about travelling, adding: "Everybody is respectful - all the proprietors of businesses, there's sanitiser everywhere."
His wife, Angie Clarke, also 57, said: "There's very little open compared to what's normally open."
(Image: PA)
On a beach in the bay across from San Antonio, Daniel Ryall, 23, a civil engineer, and Olivia Cambridge, 24, a finance assistant, both from London, were enjoying the start of their holiday.
"When we go in our hotel there's obviously hand sanitiser and stuff but we've been doing it at home so it's not different really," said Olivia.
"We were only going to come for the party side of things but it's not really a big deal to us now."
Mr Ryall noted that at their hotel people were having their temperature checked on entry.
"It's not really that weird to be honest," he said.
"It's different but if anything it adds a bit more security, just makes you less nervous."
(Image: PA)
Catastrophic effect on economy
Martin Makepeace, who runs a property company in Ibiza and has lived there for 30 years, said the coronavirus pandemic has had a "catastrophic" affect on the economy.
"2020 is a matter of getting through the year, damage limitation, paying the bills, then focus on 2021," he said.
Mr Makepeace, president of the British Association for San Antonio, claimed a "project fear" is putting off some British tourists returning on holiday.
He said Italian and German tourists were "reaping the benefit" of entering lockdown earlier in their countries, accusing the UK Government of "complete incompetence" in its handling of the Covid-19 crisis.
"Bringing in the quarantine after the horse had bolted didn't make any sense," he argued.
He urged British tourists to venture to Ibiza, where they would find it "very chilled" and not "party, party".
"It's more focused on a daytime vibe, long lunches, beaches, swimming pools," he said.
"Maybe the pandemic will give people the chance to see the real Ibiza and not just the inside of a discotheque."