birminghammail--2020-05-05--Aston Villa fans fume at Leeds United 'hypocrites' claim

Aston Villa and Leeds United have recent history with each other - not at all helped by a fiery pre-play-off clash that called the meaning of 'fair play ' into question .
Marcelo Bielsa agreed to let Villa walk the ball in after it appeared his side played on after gesturing to put the ball out when Jonathan Kodjia was brought to the floor .
Despite the game ending over a year ago , there has been a fair bit of carry-on from both sides - something now brewing once more thanks to the fact that Villa and Leeds find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the promotion/relegation coin .
With the season currently halted - and conclusions being drawn up that likely do not benefit either side - the season hangs in the balance and so do both Leeds and Aston Villa , who found themselves on the flipside of a sportsmanship argument just a year ago .
If Aston Villa avoid the drop due to a technicality - and promotion to the Premier League is removed for the season , you can probably see why Leeds fans might be annoyed .
However , with a game in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa fans might be furious if the season is called as it is - with the Villans in the relegation zone .
Claims of Villa 's sportsmanship critique aimed at Leeds from last season are now being brought to the fore - and that has n't gone down at all well with Villa fans .
Here 's what they had to say Wayne Turner : We are not down and they are not up , a lot of games to play .
Douglas : How desperate are they !
Paul : As much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season properly , if voiding it stops us going down and Leeds and the Baggies coming up then I 'm all for it .
If that makes me a hypocrite then at least I am a premier league hypocrite .
Matty : One day they will stop crying .
Tom : If any teams were mathematically relegated , they 'd have a point .
Villa have 10 games remaining and they 're 3 points from safety .
Ridiculous .
@ Booth_10 : It ’ s more than a little different situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose in the playoffs .
Wasn ’ t they 1st or 2nd this time last year ?
Stu : Villa have the right to require season to be finished as that ’ s the fairest way and then no arguments .
Same as Leeds need to finish their season and be promoted the right way as no offence to Leeds but teams will fancy their chances of catching them after last year .
Phil : Have Leeds forgot that it did not stop them having a chance to go up but they blew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they thought they had won so this has no bearing on what is happening now

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Aston Villa and Leeds United have recent history with each other - not at all helped by a fiery pre-play-off clash that called the meaning of 'fair play' into question.
Marcelo Bielsa agreed to let Villa walk the ball in after it appeared his side played on after gesturing to put the ball out when Jonathan Kodjia was brought to the floor.
Despite the game ending over a year ago, there has been a fair bit of carry-on from both sides - something now brewing once more thanks to the fact that Villa and Leeds find themselves on the exact opposite side of the promotion/relegation coin.
With the season currently halted - and conclusions being drawn up that likely do not benefit either side - the season hangs in the balance and so do both Leeds and Aston Villa, who found themselves on the flipside of a sportsmanship argument just a year ago.
If Aston Villa avoid the drop due to a technicality - and promotion to the Premier League is removed for the season, you can probably see why Leeds fans might be annoyed.
However, with a game in hand, you can also see why Villa fans might be furious if the season is called as it is - with the Villans in the relegation zone.
Claims of Villa's sportsmanship critique aimed at Leeds from last season are now being brought to the fore - and that hasn't gone down at all well with Villa fans.
Here's what they had to say
Wayne Turner: We are not down and they are not up, a lot of games to play.
Douglas: How desperate are they!
Paul: As much as I want to see us conclude the season properly, if voiding it stops us going down and Leeds and the Baggies coming up then I'm all for it. If that makes me a hypocrite then at least I am a premier league hypocrite.
Matty: One day they will stop crying.
Tom: If any teams were mathematically relegated, they'd have a point. Villa have 10 games remaining and they're 3 points from safety. Ridiculous.
@Booth_10: It’s more than a little different situation. Anyway Leeds will just bottle it and lose in the playoffs. Wasn’t they 1st or 2nd this time last year?
Stu: Villa have the right to require season to be finished as that’s the fairest way and then no arguments. Same as Leeds need to finish their season and be promoted the right way as no offence to Leeds but teams will fancy their chances of catching them after last year.
Phil: Have Leeds forgot that it did not stop them having a chance to go up but they blew it against Derby in the play offs when they thought they had won so this has no bearing on what is happening now


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Aston Villa insider reveals big training setback for Dean Smith

Amongst other things , the current suspension of the football calendar is a massive test of the fitness levels and professionalism of footballers stuck at home - including the Aston Villa side .
Sides have trusted players with virtual training plans and coaching via webcam due to social distancing measures , and Villa are no different .
`` It ’ s interesting , because early on we didn ’ t plan how long this was going to do on , ” said Villa assistant John Terry to Sky Sports when asked about how his players are keeping fit .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initially , gave the players programmes to work on from home – run on their treadmills , if they ’ ve got a gym , or just going on simple runs .
`` But since then , the manager and myself have picked up with some video calls with the players , so as a group of staff we put videos together for the defenders , midfielders and attackers . ''
Ex-Villa defender Alan Hutton does n't think a return will be quite so easy , though .
Hutton believes the lockdown will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dean Smith 's squad , after speaking to a few of his old team-mates .
`` Obviously they ’ re finding difficult , there ’ s only so much you can do on your own , ” he told Football Insider .
`` If you ’ re looking at it and saying we can come back in June and it ’ s going to start with small groups training , I know for a fact it ’ s going to take them weeks to get back fit .
These are the factors in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re back for three weeks and the team you ’ re playing against has been back for four , five weeks , this is where the fitness people are going to come into their own because it ’ s all on them .
It ’ s about them getting the players fit and ready for action .
`` I think the training ground has been open for certain individuals to come in and out on their own to use the pitches and stuff .
I think that ’ s how it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming in coming in and working . ''
Villa themselves are rather concerned with a return to action .
The Mirror reports that Villa chief executive Christian Purslow has aired concerns over player welfare , while the club are also said to be frustrated with the plan to finish the season on neutral grounds .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Amongst other things, the current suspension of the football calendar is a massive test of the fitness levels and professionalism of footballers stuck at home - including the Aston Villa side.
Sides have trusted players with virtual training plans and coaching via webcam due to social distancing measures, and Villa are no different.
"It’s interesting, because early on we didn’t plan how long this was going to do on,” said Villa assistant John Terry to Sky Sports when asked about how his players are keeping fit.
"So we held back a little bit initially, gave the players programmes to work on from home – run on their treadmills, if they’ve got a gym, or just going on simple runs.
"But since then, the manager and myself have picked up with some video calls with the players, so as a group of staff we put videos together for the defenders, midfielders and attackers."
Ex-Villa defender Alan Hutton doesn't think a return will be quite so easy, though.
Hutton believes the lockdown will mean that it will be difficult for Dean Smith's squad, after speaking to a few of his old team-mates.
"Obviously they’re finding difficult, there’s only so much you can do on your own,” he told Football Insider.
"If you’re looking at it and saying we can come back in June and it’s going to start with small groups training, I know for a fact it’s going to take them weeks to get back fit. These are the factors in this mad situation.
"If you’re back for three weeks and the team you’re playing against has been back for four, five weeks, this is where the fitness people are going to come into their own because it’s all on them. It’s about them getting the players fit and ready for action.
"I think the training ground has been open for certain individuals to come in and out on their own to use the pitches and stuff. I think that’s how it will work, in little groups of players coming in coming in and working."
Villa themselves are rather concerned with a return to action.
The Mirror reports that Villa chief executive Christian Purslow has aired concerns over player welfare, while the club are also said to be frustrated with the plan to finish the season on neutral grounds.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Clarke-Salter reveals Blues player who is 'unbelievable' in training

Jake Clarke-Salter has revealed that Jude Bellingham is the best player in Birmingham City 's training sessions .
The talented 16-year-old is the most sought-after teenager in the country with Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund fighting over his signature .
Clarke-Salter 's parent club Chelsea are also reportedly keen to sign Bellingham , who could cost suitors north of £30million when Blues decide to sell .
During a Q & A with Blues supporters on Tuesday evening , Clarke-Salter said : `` For me , the best player in training is Jude Bellingham .
For someone so young , what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Four goals in 35 appearances in a host of different positions shows Bellingham has been able to transfer his Wast Hills showings to the big stage .
The midfielder 's performances this season have been a revelation - but it has n't come as a surprise to those who watched him growing up .
Former Blues boss Gary Rowett told BirminghamLive : “ It was one where I had a good relationship with [ academy manager ] Kristjaan Speakman .
`` I used to say to him all the time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best academy players to my Mac in the office at Wast Hills .
“ Obviously Jude was one of the ones that were included .
I remember watching him and thinking he had a lovely balance and you could see he was going to be a very , very good athlete .
“ Even though he was not that physically developed at the time he looked mature in the way he played , he had that awareness of where other people were and that ability to find space .
“ Soon after that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he showed all those attributes I ’ d seen on the clips .
“ I remember speaking to Kristjaan about him after that and him saying to me that he was the most sought-after 12-year-old in Europe .
All the top clubs had been to see him and liked what they saw .
“ It was impossible back then to say he was going to be a top player but he was being watched by every single club around . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Jake Clarke-Salter has revealed that Jude Bellingham is the best player in Birmingham City's training sessions.
The talented 16-year-old is the most sought-after teenager in the country with Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund fighting over his signature.
Clarke-Salter's parent club Chelsea are also reportedly keen to sign Bellingham, who could cost suitors north of £30million when Blues decide to sell.
During a Q&A with Blues supporters on Tuesday evening, Clarke-Salter said: "For me, the best player in training is Jude Bellingham. For someone so young, what he does in training sometimes is unbelievable."
Four goals in 35 appearances in a host of different positions shows Bellingham has been able to transfer his Wast Hills showings to the big stage.
The midfielder's performances this season have been a revelation - but it hasn't come as a surprise to those who watched him growing up.
Former Blues boss Gary Rowett told BirminghamLive: “It was one where I had a good relationship with [academy manager] Kristjaan Speakman.
"I used to say to him all the time for him to send me clips of the best academy players to my Mac in the office at Wast Hills.
“Obviously Jude was one of the ones that were included. I remember watching him and thinking he had a lovely balance and you could see he was going to be a very, very good athlete.
“Even though he was not that physically developed at the time he looked mature in the way he played, he had that awareness of where other people were and that ability to find space.
“Soon after that we did a session with the academy and he showed all those attributes I’d seen on the clips.
“I remember speaking to Kristjaan about him after that and him saying to me that he was the most sought-after 12-year-old in Europe. All the top clubs had been to see him and liked what they saw.
“It was impossible back then to say he was going to be a top player but he was being watched by every single club around."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Brummies react as dad steps in front of car to protect kids at crossing

It was the heart-stopping moment which shocked the city as a dad was seen stepping in front of an overtaking car to protect four young children .
Jason Payne stood in front of an oncoming Seat Leon to ensure the kids ' safety during the terrifying near-miss at a zebra crossing in Green Lane , Castle Bromwich .
The driver was said to have muttered something about being in a chase before he drove over the crossing before the family had crossed .
Police said they are investigating the scare , which happened during the family 's daily lockdown walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BirminghamLive readers took to social media to express their horror at the incident .
Many suggested the driver should be prosecuted , with one saying the children could have been killed had the dad not stepped in .
Julie Hinson commented : `` There are so many drivers out there now that go through red lights , drive on the other side of the road to get in front of traffic , cut you up . ''
John Murphy added : `` That ’ s not a near-miss .
That was a deliberate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` No excuse for this behaviour - hope he gets prosecuted . ''
Demi Morris wrote : `` If it wasn ’ t for this dad stepping in the way , these kids probably wouldn ’ t be here today . ''
Mr Payne , 34 , was with partner Elizabeth Mears , her five-year-old daughter , Grace , and three-year-old son Ollie , and his two sons , eight-year-old Preston and Mason , ten .
Miss Mears said the adults , with the children on their scooters , started crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the car in front .
Then it started to pull out , forcing Mr Payne to jump in front and bang on the bonnet asking : `` What are you doing ? ''
The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to have apologised and then drove off .
The children stopped and , sensing danger , quickly moved back on their scooters to the safety of the pavement .
Miss Mears , 26 , said she was terrified and suffered a panic attack .
She said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car in front came to a stop .
`` That car had screeched to a halt .
We thought the driver involved had turned out a little to stop himself hitting the car in front .
`` My partner said : ‘ It ’ s OK , please keep walking across the road.
’ '' But the driver continued to speed out .
My partner banged on the bonnet and said : 'What are you doing ?
There ’ s children here .
`` He still continued .
Apparently he was saying he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back of his car and said something about a chase .
So the kids moved back to the pavement and he drove off . ''
`` We were very shocked .
I ended up having a panic attack . ''
West Midlands Police urged any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward .
A West Midlands Police spokesman said : `` We received a report of a car driving erratically and nearly hitting a woman and two children on a crossing along Green Lane , Castle Bromwich , around 6.30pm yesterday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made an appointment to speak to the woman to obtain more details today , and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk ( birminghammail.co.uk, Stephanie Balloo)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
It was the heart-stopping moment which shocked the city as a dad was seen stepping in front of an overtaking car to protect four young children.
Jason Payne stood in front of an oncoming Seat Leon to ensure the kids' safety during the terrifying near-miss at a zebra crossing in Green Lane, Castle Bromwich.
The driver was said to have muttered something about being in a chase before he drove over the crossing before the family had crossed.
Police said they are investigating the scare, which happened during the family's daily lockdown walk on Monday evening, May 4.
BirminghamLive readers took to social media to express their horror at the incident.
Many suggested the driver should be prosecuted, with one saying the children could have been killed had the dad not stepped in.
Julie Hinson commented: "There are so many drivers out there now that go through red lights, drive on the other side of the road to get in front of traffic, cut you up."
John Murphy added: "That’s not a near-miss. That was a deliberate act. Shocking."
Mary McGreene said: "No excuse for this behaviour - hope he gets prosecuted."
Demi Morris wrote: "If it wasn’t for this dad stepping in the way, these kids probably wouldn’t be here today."
Mr Payne, 34, was with partner Elizabeth Mears, her five-year-old daughter, Grace, and three-year-old son Ollie, and his two sons, eight-year-old Preston and Mason, ten.
Miss Mears said the adults, with the children on their scooters, started crossing when the Seat screeched to a halt behind the car in front.
Then it started to pull out, forcing Mr Payne to jump in front and bang on the bonnet asking: "What are you doing?"
The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to have apologised and then drove off.
The children stopped and, sensing danger, quickly moved back on their scooters to the safety of the pavement.
Miss Mears, 26, said she was terrified and suffered a panic attack.
She said: "We came to the crossing and the car in front came to a stop.
"That car had screeched to a halt. We thought the driver involved had turned out a little to stop himself hitting the car in front.
"My partner said: ‘It’s OK, please keep walking across the road.’
"But the driver continued to speed out. My partner banged on the bonnet and said: 'What are you doing? There’s children here.
"He still continued. Apparently he was saying he was sorry and he looked at the back of his car and said something about a chase. So the kids moved back to the pavement and he drove off."
"We were very shocked. I ended up having a panic attack."
West Midlands Police urged any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We received a report of a car driving erratically and nearly hitting a woman and two children on a crossing along Green Lane, Castle Bromwich, around 6.30pm yesterday, May 4.
"We’ve made an appointment to speak to the woman to obtain more details today, and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101.
"Quote log number 3732 of 4/5/20.”


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Murder probe as man found dead in 'Benefits Street' - woman arrested

A woman has been arrested on the suspicion of murder after a man was found unresponsive at a home in @ @ @ @ @ .
The 48-year-old man was pronounced dead at the property in James Turner Street during @ @ @ @ @ , May 3 .
His death was initially thought not to be suspicious but police @ @ @ @ @ arrest of a 44-year-old woman on suspicion of murder .
The suspect is known to @ @ @ @ @ police custody for questioning , a spokesman for the force confirmed .
Detective Inspector Stuart @ @ @ @ @ unit , said : “ We are in the early stages of our investigation and @ @ @ @ @ members to understand what happened prior to the man ’ s death .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ to contact my team as soon as possible.
” The homicide team can be contacted @ @ @ @ @ between 8am and midnight or by calling 101 anytime .
Information can be given to @ @ @ @ @ 111 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
A woman has been arrested on the suspicion of murder after a man was found unresponsive at a home in Birmingham's 'Benefits Street'.
The 48-year-old man was pronounced dead at the property in James Turner Street during the early hours of Sunday, May 3.
His death was initially thought not to be suspicious but police inquiries have led to the arrest of a 44-year-old woman on suspicion of murder.
The suspect is known to the deceased and remains in police custody for questioning, a spokesman for the force confirmed.
James Turner Street shot to notoriety for Channel Four's documentary Benefits Street.
Detective Inspector Stuart Mobberley, from the homicide unit, said: “We are in the early stages of our investigation and we are speaking to family members to understand what happened prior to the man’s death.
“I would urge anyone with information to contact my team as soon as possible.”
The homicide team can be contacted via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight or by calling 101 anytime. Information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Aston Villa fans highlight the Villans' biggest transfer errors

Football clubs are n't always bang on when it comes to the transfer market , and Aston Villa are no exception .
In fact , as much as the Villans have succeeded with certain transfer buys , they have defined themselves with some rather grievous errors in the market .
And that 's just the players brought in !
There 's another side of the coin though - what about the players that the Villa failed to capitalise on during their time at the club ?
The players sold short , sold cheaply and the players who were cut away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans on our Facebook page to air their views on the topic - Which Villa player do you think should have been given more time at the club ?
Here 's what they had to say : Patrik Svensson : Crouch .
You could clearly see his talent .
If given a bit more time to build some muscle he would have been great for the club for a long time .
A talisman .
Crouch - Agbonlahor , Quinn - Phillips .
Oh well .
David Sikora : Kyle Walker drove me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he improved by leaps and bounds in the years after he left the club .
I wish we could have had him once he reached his full potential .
Rob Derry : David James , James Collins ( both of them ) , Daniel Johnson , Tommy Johnson , Crouch , Cahill etc etc Ben Broadhurst : I always thought Carles Gil had some serious talent , still do , he would have teared it up in the championship for us if he was still at the club .
IMO .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Football clubs aren't always bang on when it comes to the transfer market, and Aston Villa are no exception.
In fact, as much as the Villans have succeeded with certain transfer buys, they have defined themselves with some rather grievous errors in the market.
And that's just the players brought in!
There's another side of the coin though - what about the players that the Villa failed to capitalise on during their time at the club? The players sold short, sold cheaply and the players who were cut away before their time?
We asked Villa fans on our Facebook page to air their views on the topic - Which Villa player do you think should have been given more time at the club?
Here's what they had to say:
Patrik Svensson: Crouch. You could clearly see his talent. If given a bit more time to build some muscle he would have been great for the club for a long time. A talisman. Crouch - Agbonlahor, Quinn - Phillips. Oh well.
Stuart Walton: Cahill and Albrighton
David Sikora: Kyle Walker drove me nuts when he was here, but he improved by leaps and bounds in the years after he left the club. I wish we could have had him once he reached his full potential.
Steve Baker: David Unsworth
Mark Walker: Gary Cahill obviously
Alex Horncastle: Gary Cahill
Tristan Williams: Marc Albrighton, Gary Cahill, Steven Davis, Bobby McDonald, Alan McInally, Luke and Stefan Moore, Boaz Myhill and Callum Robinson.
Richard Mortimer: Adama Traoré
John Colclough: Luke Young.
Rob Derry: David James, James Collins (both of them), Daniel Johnson, Tommy Johnson, Crouch, Cahill etc etc
Kerry Overington: Albrighton.
Ben Broadhurst: I always thought Carles Gil had some serious talent, still do, he would have teared it up in the championship for us if he was still at the club. IMO.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--West Brom & Fulham set for 'transfer war' over exciting talent

Championship rivals Fulham and West Brom are set to take their fight to the transfer market as they look to sign FC Lorient midfielder Yoane Wissa , Telefoot reports .
Wissa has caught the eye in the second division of French football this season , netting 16 goals in 30 appearances , which has led to Fulham and West Brom expressing an interest in his services .
However , the fight for his signature is fierce as Premier League pair Watford and Southampton are also said to be keen , along with Bundesliga duo Augsburg and Mainz .
Sticking with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on securing the services of Bristol City defender Taylor Moore , according to reports cited by the Blackpool Gazette .
The 22-year-old is currently on loan with League One side Blackpool , whom he joined in January , and impressed with his eight appearances before the campaign was brought to a halt in March .
Moore is out of contract at the end of next season , meaning Bristol City will have to sell this summer to earn a fee for his services , and it ’ s added that they value him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an approach to sign Stoke City starlet Mohamed Sankoh , Football Insider reports .
The 16-year-old has also attracted the interest of Chelsea and Scottish champions Celtic but Everton are keen to win the race for the exciting teenager by bringing his talents to Merseyside .
Stoke can not sign Sankoh to a professional deal until he turns 17 in October , which means any club that moves to snatch his services would only have to pay a compensation fee .
Leeds United are battling Coventry City for the services of Paris FC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states .
The 27-year-old is nearing the end of his contract with the Ligue 2 side and , after the season was officially cancelled last week , is free to seal a move to Elland Road on a free transfer in the coming months .
Marcelo Bielsa is reportedly extremely keen on the defender but Coventry and Italian side Crotone are also said to be keen on a deal .

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

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Fulham and West Brom fight for Wissa
Championship rivals Fulham and West Brom are set to take their fight to the transfer market as they look to sign FC Lorient midfielder Yoane Wissa, Telefoot reports.
Wissa has caught the eye in the second division of French football this season, netting 16 goals in 30 appearances, which has led to Fulham and West Brom expressing an interest in his services.
However, the fight for his signature is fierce as Premier League pair Watford and Southampton are also said to be keen, along with Bundesliga duo Augsburg and Mainz.
West Brom want Bristol City defender
Sticking with West Brom, the Baggies are keen on securing the services of Bristol City defender Taylor Moore, according to reports cited by the Blackpool Gazette.
The 22-year-old is currently on loan with League One side Blackpool, whom he joined in January, and impressed with his eight appearances before the campaign was brought to a halt in March.
Moore is out of contract at the end of next season, meaning Bristol City will have to sell this summer to earn a fee for his services, and it’s added that they value him at around £3m.
Everton submit bid for Stoke starlet
Everton have made an approach to sign Stoke City starlet Mohamed Sankoh, Football Insider reports.
The 16-year-old has also attracted the interest of Chelsea and Scottish champions Celtic but Everton are keen to win the race for the exciting teenager by bringing his talents to Merseyside.
Stoke cannot sign Sankoh to a professional deal until he turns 17 in October, which means any club that moves to snatch his services would only have to pay a compensation fee.
Leeds target defensive free agent
Leeds United are battling Coventry City for the services of Paris FC defender Samuel Yohou, Le 10 Sport states.
The 27-year-old is nearing the end of his contract with the Ligue 2 side and, after the season was officially cancelled last week, is free to seal a move to Elland Road on a free transfer in the coming months.
Marcelo Bielsa is reportedly extremely keen on the defender but Coventry and Italian side Crotone are also said to be keen on a deal.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--UK Government outlines plan to let Aston Villa avoid relegation

The UK Government believes football 's return will 'lift the spirits of the nation ' as plans are accelerated to allow Aston Villa to seal their own fate .
Villa are currently 19th in the Premier League but have a game-in-hand on the teams above them , which means their destiny is in their own hands .
A points-per-game ruling had been mooted , which would have cost Villa their place in the league - but resuming the season now appears to be the only option .
There are still details to be finalised but the Government has today given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when safe , suggesting the return of competition will improve the nation 's mood during the fight against the pandemic .
And First Secretary of State Dominic Raab , deputising for the Prime Minister at today 's coronavirus press conference , has outlined the Government 's strategy following high level talks with the Premier League in recent weeks .
`` I think it would lift the spirits of the nation , '' said Raab .
`` I think people would like to see us get back , not just to work and get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to school but also enjoy some of those pastimes , sport in particular .
`` I know the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it is safe to do so .
`` I can tell you that the Culture Secretary has also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move to the second phase , so that is something I can tell you we are looking at .
`` Of course , we come back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can only do it when the medical and scientific advice is that it can be done safely and sustainably .
`` But certainly that is something under active consideration . ''
Football is expected to be played behind closed doors until a vaccine is found , with trials now taking place in the UK and around the world .
Talks to play fixtures at neutral grounds have also taken place , although that has been met by some opposition .
Raab added : `` I ca n't look too far into the future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we could get control of the virus permanently and defeat it for good .
`` A vaccine is certainly one of those , therapeutics are another .
`` I think we are all waiting to see how effective internationally testing , tracking and tracing is going to be and I also think that 's another option .
`` But whether it 's a combination of testing , tracking and tracing and other social distancing measures within what 's possible within a sporting environment .
`` We want to see whether behind closed doors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
`` So I think it 's worth taking a close look at that , seeing whether it 's possible to do it safely but , as ever , taking the scientific and medical advice as to when and how to proceed . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
The UK Government believes football's return will 'lift the spirits of the nation' as plans are accelerated to allow Aston Villa to seal their own fate.
Villa are currently 19th in the Premier League but have a game-in-hand on the teams above them, which means their destiny is in their own hands.
A points-per-game ruling had been mooted, which would have cost Villa their place in the league - but resuming the season now appears to be the only option.
There are still details to be finalised but the Government has today given the green light for sport to restart when safe, suggesting the return of competition will improve the nation's mood during the fight against the pandemic.
And First Secretary of State Dominic Raab, deputising for the Prime Minister at today's coronavirus press conference, has outlined the Government's strategy following high level talks with the Premier League in recent weeks.
"I think it would lift the spirits of the nation," said Raab.
"I think people would like to see us get back, not just to work and get to a stage where safely our children go to school but also enjoy some of those pastimes, sport in particular.
"I know the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it is safe to do so.
"I can tell you that the Culture Secretary has also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move to the second phase, so that is something I can tell you we are looking at.
"Of course, we come back to the key point there - we can only do it when the medical and scientific advice is that it can be done safely and sustainably.
"But certainly that is something under active consideration."
Football is expected to be played behind closed doors until a vaccine is found, with trials now taking place in the UK and around the world.
Talks to play fixtures at neutral grounds have also taken place, although that has been met by some opposition.
Raab added: "I can't look too far into the future, because there are various different ways we could get control of the virus permanently and defeat it for good.
"A vaccine is certainly one of those, therapeutics are another.
"I think we are all waiting to see how effective internationally testing, tracking and tracing is going to be and I also think that's another option.
"But whether it's a combination of testing, tracking and tracing and other social distancing measures within what's possible within a sporting environment.
"We want to see whether behind closed doors, what the options are for doing that.
"So I think it's worth taking a close look at that, seeing whether it's possible to do it safely but, as ever, taking the scientific and medical advice as to when and how to proceed."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--UK Government outlines plan to let West Brom win promotion

The UK Government believes football 's return will 'lift the spirits of the nation ' as plans are accelerated to allow West Bromwich Albion to finish their season .
The Baggies are currently second in the Championship with nine games remaining and have a healthy six-point cushion to third-place Fulham .
Understandably , both Albion and Leeds United - who are top of the second tier - are desperate to finish the campaign .
And First Secretary of State Dominic Raab , deputising for the Prime Minister at today 's coronavirus press conference , has outlined the Government 's strategy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League and EFL in recent weeks .
`` I think it would lift the spirits of the nation , '' said Raab .
`` I think people would like to see us get back , not just to work and get to a stage where safely our children go to school but also enjoy some of those pastimes , sport in particular .
`` I know the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it is safe to do so .
`` I can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move to the second phase , so that is something I can tell you we are looking at .
`` Of course , we come back to the key point there - we can only do it when the medical and scientific advice is that it can be done safely and sustainably .
`` But certainly that is something under active consideration . ''
Football is expected to be played behind closed doors until a vaccine is found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK and around the world .
Talks to play fixtures at neutral grounds have also taken place , although that has been met by some opposition .
Raab added : `` I ca n't look too far into the future , because there are various different ways we could get control of the virus permanently and defeat it for good .
`` A vaccine is certainly one of those , therapeutics are another .
`` I think we are all waiting to see how effective internationally testing , tracking and tracing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's another option .
`` But whether it 's a combination of testing , tracking and tracing and other social distancing measures within what 's possible within a sporting environment .
`` We want to see whether behind closed doors , what the options are for doing that .
`` So I think it 's worth taking a close look at that , seeing whether it 's possible to do it safely but , as ever , taking the scientific and medical advice as to when and how to proceed . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be cancelled all together , it now looks likely that West Brom and Leeds will be given the chance to win promotion .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
The UK Government believes football's return will 'lift the spirits of the nation' as plans are accelerated to allow West Bromwich Albion to finish their season.
The Baggies are currently second in the Championship with nine games remaining and have a healthy six-point cushion to third-place Fulham. Understandably, both Albion and Leeds United - who are top of the second tier - are desperate to finish the campaign.
And First Secretary of State Dominic Raab, deputising for the Prime Minister at today's coronavirus press conference, has outlined the Government's strategy following high level talks with the Premier League and EFL in recent weeks.
(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
"I think it would lift the spirits of the nation," said Raab.
"I think people would like to see us get back, not just to work and get to a stage where safely our children go to school but also enjoy some of those pastimes, sport in particular.
"I know the government has had constructive meetings with sports bodies to plan for athletes to resume training when it is safe to do so.
"I can tell you that the Culture Secretary has also been working on a plan to get sports played behind closed doors when we move to the second phase, so that is something I can tell you we are looking at.
"Of course, we come back to the key point there - we can only do it when the medical and scientific advice is that it can be done safely and sustainably.
"But certainly that is something under active consideration."
Football is expected to be played behind closed doors until a vaccine is found, with trials now taking place in the UK and around the world.
Talks to play fixtures at neutral grounds have also taken place, although that has been met by some opposition.
Raab added: "I can't look too far into the future, because there are various different ways we could get control of the virus permanently and defeat it for good.
"A vaccine is certainly one of those, therapeutics are another.
"I think we are all waiting to see how effective internationally testing, tracking and tracing is going to be and I also think that's another option.
"But whether it's a combination of testing, tracking and tracing and other social distancing measures within what's possible within a sporting environment.
"We want to see whether behind closed doors, what the options are for doing that.
"So I think it's worth taking a close look at that, seeing whether it's possible to do it safely but, as ever, taking the scientific and medical advice as to when and how to proceed."
After initial fears that the season could be cancelled all together, it now looks likely that West Brom and Leeds will be given the chance to win promotion.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--What happened to Martin O'Neill's first Aston Villa XI?

Aston Villa fans treated Martin O'Neill as somewhat of a messiah - and after droll years under Graham Taylor and David O'Leary , who can blame the Villa faithful to mob the Ulsterman as he was paraded before them after joining the club ?
The beginning of the O'Neill era heralded a new dawn at the club , and his first game in charge did n't exactly dampen spirits .
Olof Mellberg rose to nod Villa into the lead against Arsenal in 2006 - during their Premier League curtain-raiser at the newly minted Ashburton Grove stadium - the Emirates .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ - Arsene Wenger 's party was spoiled by O'Neill 's plucky bunch , who started off a run of form and heady optimism that was n't truly dampened until a crushing defeat in Moscow almost half a decade down the line .
`` I 'm still trying to get to know my players , but I thought they were terrific it 's a great result , '' said O'Neill after the match .
`` I can not do anything about the expectation but we are not going to become a really decent team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but O'Neill managed to quickly turn Villa 's fortunes around , and it all started with a draw in London .
The first day , proper , of MON 's reign at the club defined the entire era - almost .
The team on that first day in the Premier League for O'Neill 's Villa underwent some major changes with John Carew and Ashley Young grafted on the attack , with Martin Laursen growing into a leadership role .
So , what happened to the Villa XI that defied the Gunners under O'Neill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Villa 's number one before O'Neill arrived from Celtic .
Joining from Sunderland for around £2 million he went on to make nearly 150 apperances as Villa 's number one before moving to Stoke City .
An injury in 2007 led to Scott Carson being called in on loan from liverpool - with Sørensen pushed down the pecking order before leaving on a free transfer in 2008 , and not before he questioned O'Neill 's decision to bring in Carson - being hit with a fine for his trouble .
After departing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sleeping dog lie and bit back at the Villa manager after claiming Martin O'Neill hurt his pride I 'm not going to comment on that , '' said Sorensen to the Guardian when asked if he would greet his old boss .
`` He had his reasons [ for leaving me out ] and said it to my face that he did n't think I was good enough .
That is his decision .
I have a chance now to prove to myself and everyone else that he was wrong .
I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I thought he was very hard .
For me , it is a done deal .
I have moved on and I ca n't dwell too much about the past . ''
He established himself once more at Stoke , before joing A-League side Melbourne City and retiring from football in 2017 at age 41 .
Iron-jawed Hughes joined Villa after turning out over two-hundred times for Newcastle United .
The flexible defender 's Villa career was a minor interlude between career defining spells at Newcastle and Fulham - and he was part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heath before O'Neill came in .
Hughes made 64 appearances in all competitions during his time at Villa , and after he left Fulham he embarked on a journeyman 's path during the twilight of his career turning out for QPR , Brighton , Melbourne City , Kerala Blasters of the Indian Super League and Heart of Midlothian before retiring at age 39 last summer .
Hughes is now training under the UEFA Master for International Players course that seeks pathways for players outside of coaching work .
Mellberg needs no introduction , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the most iconic players of Villa 's recent history , let alone his near decade spent at the club .
The Swedish defender appeared almost 250 times for the Villans before departing to Juventus .
In 2014 , Mellberg called time on his playing days after a season with Copehagen and shortly signed up with Swedish side Brommapojkarna where he took them to a Division one title - before walking away from the side after securing their promotion to the top tier Allsvenskan .
Last summer , Mellberg continued his career with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two months to take up the head coach role at Helsingborgs , where he is currently awaiting the start of the season .
Ridgewell seemed set to continuie his Villa career as a depth option under Martin O'Neill until a surprise sale to close rivals Birmingham City , where he became captain and claimed the League Cup .
'Agent ' Ridgewell became an iconic player during Birmingham 's renewed second city derby - for all the wrong reasons , scoring an own goal to help Villa along .
After his spell at St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bromwich Albion before finding his true calling in Major League Soccer for the Portland Timbers .
In a five year spell with the club , Ridgewell lifted the MLS Cup and was selected in the MLS all-star side in 2014 .
He then returned to England to sign for Hull City before joining Southend - and is now currently seeking a management role after playing just 50 minutes for Sol Campbell 's side .
Samuel signed for Villa on a YTS scheme in 1997 and made 169 appearances for the side - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's left-back slot including cult fave Freddy Bouma .
Samuel went on to establish himself at Bolton Wanderers before moving to Iran to play for Esteghlal , before retiring from football and committing himself to a regeneration project in The Gambia .
Shortly after returning to England , Samuel passed away in a car crash at age 37 , with former teammates paying tribute to 'happy-go-lucky smiling boy ' .
Laursen 's dawn at Villa came with O'Neill 's arrival , and when his body complied , he gave the best season of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glory before retiring towards the end of O'Neill 's reign at Villa Park due to complex injury issues .
A short spell in management beckoned for Laursen at Søllerød-Vedbæk - and the Dane has n't ruled out a coaching return to Villa Park , where he was once offered a role , as he seeks further work in football .
O'Neill did n't waste any time at all moving on from Djemba-Djemba , who turned out against the Villa for Odense BK after his departure .
His time in Denmark was by far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A one club man , Agbonlahor went from strength to strength under O'Neill and was never truly the same after watching the Ulsterman leave - and then all of Villa 's crown jewels shortly after .
The forward went on to become the team 's club captain , and was eventually part of the team that was relegated from the Premier League in 2016 .
Gabby was then involved with a spat with Villa 's 2016 boss - Roberto Di Matteo , and fell out of favour until Steve Bruce succeeded the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scored ) in bit-part spells until retiring after the expiration of his Villa contract in 2017 .
73 Premier League goals have given Agbonlahor the record of being Villa 's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer , and right now he is spending his time on media appearances - including an hour-long slot on our Claret & Blue podcast .
McCann broke through at Sunderland before making his move to Villa in 2003 .
After his starting role at Villa Park eroded under O'Neill , he moved on to Bolton Wanderers - where he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team after a spell at Blackpool as the head of academy coaching .
The sale of Davis was something of a gut punch to Villa fans after winning a trio of awards during his ascent at the club - and it was his corner that allowed Mellberg to silence the Emirates crowd .
O'Neill allowed Davis to move to Fulham in 2007 , before two career defining spells at Rangers and then Southampton .
Davis is currently enjoying his fourth spell at Rangers at age 35 .
Gareth Barry 's sale to Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for O'Neill , who lacked the power and resource to keep his main man at Villa Park .
Barry has dedicated himself fully to every club he has spent time at after Villa - winning Premier League titles at Manchester City , keeping performance levels high at Everton before joining West Bromwich Albion , where he was released before rejoining .
At 39 , Barry is still going strong for the Baggies in the Championship .
The iconic Villa forward carried his status forward to the New York Red Bulls after O'Neill allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further spells in MLS in the LA sunshine with Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA before returning home to Atletico Nacional before retiring .
The ex-forward is now on the path to earning his coaching badges with the Welsh FA ahead of a prospective career in club management .
Once the next-great-hope of Villa 's academy , Moore failed to find a constant run of form under O'Neill and was moved onto West Bromwich Albion and Swansea City .
Moore ended up in Major League Soccer - a running theme here - scoring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FC before retiring .
Hendrie was never able to replicate his VIlla highs after departing the club .
O'Neill sanctioned a loan spell shortly after the Arsenal match to send Hendrie to Stoke City before the midfielder moved to Sheffield United in 2007 .
Spells at Derby County , Brighton and Bradford City followed before a showing at Tamworth and time spent in Indonesia with Bandung .
Hendrie is currently turning out in football media and is a regular commentator on Villa matches .
He followed a nomadic path to Partizan Belgrade , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home in the French lower divisions with Châteaubriant .
He now plays in the fifth tier of Swiss football .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Aston Villa fans treated Martin O'Neill as somewhat of a messiah - and after droll years under Graham Taylor and David O'Leary, who can blame the Villa faithful to mob the Ulsterman as he was paraded before them after joining the club?
The beginning of the O'Neill era heralded a new dawn at the club, and his first game in charge didn't exactly dampen spirits.
Olof Mellberg rose to nod Villa into the lead against Arsenal in 2006 - during their Premier League curtain-raiser at the newly minted Ashburton Grove stadium - the Emirates.
While Gilberto Silva would find an equaliser - Arsene Wenger's party was spoiled by O'Neill's plucky bunch, who started off a run of form and heady optimism that wasn't truly dampened until a crushing defeat in Moscow almost half a decade down the line.
"I'm still trying to get to know my players, but I thought they were terrific it's a great result," said O'Neill after the match.
"I cannot do anything about the expectation but we are not going to become a really decent team overnight."
Overnight? No - but O'Neill managed to quickly turn Villa's fortunes around, and it all started with a draw in London.
The first day, proper, of MON's reign at the club defined the entire era - almost. The team on that first day in the Premier League for O'Neill's Villa underwent some major changes with John Carew and Ashley Young grafted on the attack, with Martin Laursen growing into a leadership role.
So, what happened to the Villa XI that defied the Gunners under O'Neill?
Thomas Sørensen
The Danish goalkeeper had established himself as Villa's number one before O'Neill arrived from Celtic.
Joining from Sunderland for around £2 million he went on to make nearly 150 apperances as Villa's number one before moving to Stoke City.
An injury in 2007 led to Scott Carson being called in on loan from liverpool - with Sørensen pushed down the pecking order before leaving on a free transfer in 2008, and not before he questioned O'Neill's decision to bring in Carson - being hit with a fine for his trouble.
After departing Villa, Sørensen couldn't let a sleeping dog lie and bit back at the Villa manager after claiming Martin O'Neill hurt his pride
I'm not going to comment on that," said Sorensen to the Guardian when asked if he would greet his old boss. "He had his reasons [for leaving me out] and said it to my face that he didn't think I was good enough. That is his decision. I have a chance now to prove to myself and everyone else that he was wrong. I don't know why he said it. I thought he was very hard. For me, it is a done deal. I have moved on and I can't dwell too much about the past."
He established himself once more at Stoke, before joing A-League side Melbourne City and retiring from football in 2017 at age 41.
Aaron Hughes
Iron-jawed Hughes joined Villa after turning out over two-hundred times for Newcastle United.
The flexible defender's Villa career was a minor interlude between career defining spells at Newcastle and Fulham - and he was part of the established dressing room at Bodymoor Heath before O'Neill came in.
Hughes made 64 appearances in all competitions during his time at Villa, and after he left Fulham he embarked on a journeyman's path during the twilight of his career turning out for QPR, Brighton, Melbourne City, Kerala Blasters of the Indian Super League and Heart of Midlothian before retiring at age 39 last summer.
Hughes is now training under the UEFA Master for International Players course that seeks pathways for players outside of coaching work.
Olof Mellberg
Mellberg needs no introduction, nor an afterword. He became one of the most iconic players of Villa's recent history, let alone his near decade spent at the club.
The Swedish defender appeared almost 250 times for the Villans before departing to Juventus. In 2014, Mellberg called time on his playing days after a season with Copehagen and shortly signed up with Swedish side Brommapojkarna where he took them to a Division one title - before walking away from the side after securing their promotion to the top tier Allsvenskan.
Last summer, Mellberg continued his career with Fremad Amager, before leaving after just two months to take up the head coach role at Helsingborgs, where he is currently awaiting the start of the season.
Liam Ridgewell
Ridgewell seemed set to continuie his Villa career as a depth option under Martin O'Neill until a surprise sale to close rivals Birmingham City, where he became captain and claimed the League Cup.
'Agent' Ridgewell became an iconic player during Birmingham's renewed second city derby - for all the wrong reasons, scoring an own goal to help Villa along.
After his spell at St Andrew's, Ridgewell moved to West Bromwich Albion before finding his true calling in Major League Soccer for the Portland Timbers.
In a five year spell with the club, Ridgewell lifted the MLS Cup and was selected in the MLS all-star side in 2014.
He then returned to England to sign for Hull City before joining Southend - and is now currently seeking a management role after playing just 50 minutes for Sol Campbell's side.
Jloyd Samuel
Samuel signed for Villa on a YTS scheme in 1997 and made 169 appearances for the side - but O'Neill much preferred other options in Samuel's left-back slot including cult fave Freddy Bouma.
Samuel went on to establish himself at Bolton Wanderers before moving to Iran to play for Esteghlal, before retiring from football and committing himself to a regeneration project in The Gambia.
Shortly after returning to England, Samuel passed away in a car crash at age 37, with former teammates paying tribute to 'happy-go-lucky smiling boy'.
Martin Laursen
Laursen's dawn at Villa came with O'Neill's arrival, and when his body complied, he gave the best season of his career to see Villa push for glory before retiring towards the end of O'Neill's reign at Villa Park due to complex injury issues.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A short spell in management beckoned for Laursen at Søllerød-Vedbæk - and the Dane hasn't ruled out a coaching return to Villa Park, where he was once offered a role, as he seeks further work in football.
Eric Djemba-Djemba
O'Neill didn't waste any time at all moving on from Djemba-Djemba, who turned out against the Villa for Odense BK after his departure. His time in Denmark was by far the most successful period of his career.
He followed a nomadic path to Partizan Belgrade, Israel and St Mirren before finding a home in the French lower divisions with Châteaubriant. He now plays in the fifth tier of Swiss football.
Gabby Agbonlahor
A one club man, Agbonlahor went from strength to strength under O'Neill and was never truly the same after watching the Ulsterman leave - and then all of Villa's crown jewels shortly after. The forward went on to become the team's club captain, and was eventually part of the team that was relegated from the Premier League in 2016.
Gabby was then involved with a spat with Villa's 2016 boss - Roberto Di Matteo, and fell out of favour until Steve Bruce succeeded the Italian, and Gabby appeared (and scored) in bit-part spells until retiring after the expiration of his Villa contract in 2017.
73 Premier League goals have given Agbonlahor the record of being Villa's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer, and right now he is spending his time on media appearances - including an hour-long slot on our Claret & Blue podcast.
Gavin McCann
McCann broke through at Sunderland before making his move to Villa in 2003. After his starting role at Villa Park eroded under O'Neill, he moved on to Bolton Wanderers - where he now coaches the Trotters' under 18 team after a spell at Blackpool as the head of academy coaching.
Steven Davis
The sale of Davis was something of a gut punch to Villa fans after winning a trio of awards during his ascent at the club - and it was his corner that allowed Mellberg to silence the Emirates crowd.
O'Neill allowed Davis to move to Fulham in 2007, before two career defining spells at Rangers and then Southampton.
Davis is currently enjoying his fourth spell at Rangers at age 35.
Gareth Barry
Gareth Barry's sale to Manchester City heralded the beginning of the end for O'Neill, who lacked the power and resource to keep his main man at Villa Park.
Barry has dedicated himself fully to every club he has spent time at after Villa - winning Premier League titles at Manchester City, keeping performance levels high at Everton before joining West Bromwich Albion, where he was released before rejoining.
At 39, Barry is still going strong for the Baggies in the Championship.
Juan Pablo Angel
The iconic Villa forward carried his status forward to the New York Red Bulls after O'Neill allowed him to leave.
Angel spent two further spells in MLS in the LA sunshine with Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA before returning home to Atletico Nacional before retiring.
The ex-forward is now on the path to earning his coaching badges with the Welsh FA ahead of a prospective career in club management.
Luke Moore
Once the next-great-hope of Villa's academy, Moore failed to find a constant run of form under O'Neill and was moved onto West Bromwich Albion and Swansea City.
Moore ended up in Major League Soccer - a running theme here - scoring seven goals in forty-two appearances for Toronto FC before retiring.
Lee Hendrie
Hendrie was never able to replicate his VIlla highs after departing the club. O'Neill sanctioned a loan spell shortly after the Arsenal match to send Hendrie to Stoke City before the midfielder moved to Sheffield United in 2007.
Spells at Derby County, Brighton and Bradford City followed before a showing at Tamworth and time spent in Indonesia with Bandung. Hendrie is currently turning out in football media and is a regular commentator on Villa matches.
Aston Villa: Sorensen, Hughes, Mellberg, Ridgewell, Samuel, Agbonlahor, McCann, Davis (Hendrie 83), Barry, Angel (Laursen 90), Moore (Djemba-Djemba 89).
Subs Not Used: Taylor, Phillips.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--'They cry every day' - Fears for elderly parents stranded in India

Elderly , ill parents stranded alone in India under coronavirus lockdown are terrified they will ‘ end up dying ’ before they can make it home to their families , distraught relatives said .
The situation is critical , they say , with anger mounting that older people have been `` abandoned '' by the country that has been their home for 50 years or more .
Among those battling for a place on a plane out of India are Simerjit Kaur , aged 73 , from Great Barr , Harbans Singh , 75 , from Wolverhampton , and Gurmej @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fighting for their safe return alongside the families is Narinder Kaur Kooner , a city councillor and representative of Sikh Assembly UK , who warned : “ They are permanent residents of the UK and this is a repeat of the discrimination of the Windrush scandal . ''
Those affected are , says Cllr Kooner , victims of a Foreign Office policy to give priority places on specially chartered flights back to the UK to people holding British passports .
Only if spare places remain , and they are vulnerable , will people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a seat .
The affected residents have Indefinite Leave to Remain ( ILR ) status rather than hold a British passport , despite having lived , worked and raised families here for more than 50 years .
India suspended all international and domestic flights from March 24 to restrict the spread of Covid-19 .
Countries including the UK , Germany , Norway and Canada have since chartered lots of flights to repatriate stranded nationals .
Those from the UK with ILR status are not automatically entitled to a seat , like those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has promised to `` consider , on a limited , case-by-case basis , offering spare seats on our repatriation flights to vulnerable foreign nationals who hold indefinite leave to remain ( ILR ) with a recent connection to the UK . ''
More flights are due to leave this week , taking hundreds more out of the country , said the Foreign Office .
Among those affected is father of three Harbans Singh , 75 , from Wolverhampton .
His daughter Jaz Sidhu , a recruitment consultant , said her father was now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife was alone at their home , crying for him .
“ It is an awful situation and the impact has been horrendous.
” Harbans , who has an Indian passport , went to visit his ancestral village for his annual three week holiday in early March .
But he became trapped when flights were cancelled as part of strict lockdown measures introduced by the Indian government .
He has since had a sign posted on the front door of his home warning he is in quarantine .
Despite the two week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been warned by fellow villagers not to venture out , amid fears that those who have come into India from abroad are ‘ carriers ’ of the virus .
Mr Singh has high blood pressure and high cholesterol , and has respiratory issues linked to a lifetime spent working in foundries in the Black Country .
Daughter Jaz said he had registered for emergency flights out of India but ever since she has had nothing other than a standard email every day to say he is on a waiting list .
She said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Indian consulate and anyone involved in the issue to try to get her father out , so far in vain .
“ He has served our country all his life , '' she said .
`` He came over as a young man and worked in the foundries – it was hot , dangerous work .
He raised us here – three children – and worked 15 hours a day to make sure we had every opportunity .
“ He cares for us , and also supports his ancestral village and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It makes me so angry that he has made constant sacrifices but is being treated like a second class citizen of this country .
It is heart breaking.
” To make matters worse , Jaz ’ s mother is having to isolate at home alone because of her health conditions – she has suffered a series of strokes and a brain injury .
“ Normally dad is her full time carer , except when he has his holiday .
As a family we are looking after her , providing food and meals every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and stopping by the house every evening to check on her ; I wave to her through the window .
“ But we are so worried about her .
She needs dad here.
” It ’ s a similar story for Avtar Singh Dhillon , an IT consultant , whose mother Simerjit Kaur flew out earlier this year on a mercy dash to be with her terminally sister during her final weeks .
Her sister died in March and , following her funeral , Simerjit attempted to get an early flight home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avail .
“ She travelled with another elderly relative Gurmej Kaur , who also has an Indian passport , and two other relatives who had UK passports .
Those with UK passports have since been able to return home , '' said Mr Dhillon , 48 .
“ Her nephew Bahadar Singh , who also does not have a UK passport , flew out to attend his mother ’ s funeral and is also stranded too .
They are all in different places , unable to see and support each other .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she is crying and scared .
`` She is terrified , as coronavirus begins to impact the communities around her.
” The family are especially worried because she has severe asthma and respiratory conditions , is out of medication , and has suffered a nervous breakdown in the past .
She is in constant distress , and is not sleeping well or eating , added Mr Dhillon .
“ It is heartbreaking .
We are desperate for her to be home and safe .
Every day we email and contact the Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are told they are on a waiting list.
” The family thought they had achieved success when all three – Simerjit , Gurmej and nephew Bahadar Singh - were offered a flight back , which they paid for , costing more than £1,600 .
But on the day of the flight they were not picked up as arranged - under the restrictions , travellers must wait to be collected and taken to the airport .
“ It ’ s diabolical .
I can ’ t believe what ’ s happening .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not believe she will ever come back alive .
It is very distressing and a massive strain on us all .
We are trying to organise medication for her but are worried about how safe it is .
“ She came over to Birmingham in her late teens and has lived here ever since , in Aston and Great Barr .
“ She is staying in the village where she was married but there is a lot of distrust now about coronavirus so she is very isolated .
“ I am working night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
I have sent a letter about her medical needs , proof residency all these years , anything to help her case.
” The family has made an official complaint about the handling of their case .
Cllr Kooner said : “ I am hearing stories like this daily .
People with ILR status feel they have been abandoned by the British government , while in India they are facing increasing victimisation as ‘ outsiders ’ who may have brought the virus in .
“ The Foreign and Commonwealth Office have said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a priority , and will repatriate ILR residents where they have capacity .
“ This is totally unacceptable and this policy needs to change as the residents in question are UK nationals , with ‘ Indefinite Leave to Remain ’ and most have lived in the UK for 50 plus years and have paid into the system .
“ They may not hold a British passport , but they are permanent residents of the UK and this is a repeat of the discrimination of the Windrush Scandal .
“ To make matters worse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ILR are older black and Asian ethnic minority residents with underlying health conditions and have run out of medication during the lockdown – the most vulnerable group for Covid 19 , according to the statistics that have been released .
“ The FCO is saying that they have a support mechanism in India - however , even if they have some relatives abroad , they are not able to assist each other due to the lockdown .
`` These UK nationals are totally isolated , frightened and many with increased risk to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The FCO should be aware of how many people have registered onto their website and organise enough flights to repatriate all UK nationals , not just British citizens.
” She said she was also hearing horror stories about corruption in India , while concerns are mounting about the impact of an imminent heatwave .
She added that families are not seeking charity - they were expected to pay for flights home ; but without the help of the Foreign Office they are stranded .
In a response to the families , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I appreciate this is a difficult time for you and the family .
We are prioritising British nationals stranded overseas as short-term visitors , who are therefore less likely to have support networks in that country .
This support extends to them and their immediate family members ( spouse and children ) who live with them in the UK .
`` Our objective remains to bring home British travellers who want to return to the UK , as soon as possible .
British travellers will therefore be prioritised for seats on HMG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognise the acute challenges of the Covid-19 virus .
Hence , we will consider , on a limited , case-by-case basis , offering spare seats on our repatriation flights to vulnerable foreign nationals who hold indefinite leave to remain ( ILR ) with a recent connection to the UK ( shown by not having been continuously absent from the UK for a period of more than a year prior to applying for a seat on a repatriation flight ) . ''
They add : “ This does not represent a change to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on nationality rather than residence .
Rather , this is an additional , temporary offer of support to a limited number of vulnerable non-British nationals reflecting the exceptional and acute challenges of the COVID 19 crisis.
” Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , when asked about the issue last week , said the Government was working flat out with its international counterparts to repatriate as many people as possible , as quickly as possible .
A Foreign Office spokesman said the policy set out in emails to the families was correct .
But he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our story and check if and when those featured are due to fly home .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Elderly, ill parents stranded alone in India under coronavirus lockdown are terrified they will ‘end up dying’ before they can make it home to their families, distraught relatives said.
The situation is critical, they say, with anger mounting that older people have been "abandoned" by the country that has been their home for 50 years or more.
Among those battling for a place on a plane out of India are Simerjit Kaur, aged 73, from Great Barr, Harbans Singh, 75, from Wolverhampton, and Gurmej Kaur, also in her 70s.
Fighting for their safe return alongside the families is Narinder Kaur Kooner, a city councillor and representative of Sikh Assembly UK, who warned: “They are permanent residents of the UK and this is a repeat of the discrimination of the Windrush scandal."
Those affected are, says Cllr Kooner, victims of a Foreign Office policy to give priority places on specially chartered flights back to the UK to people holding British passports.
Only if spare places remain, and they are vulnerable, will people like Harbans, Simerjit and Gurmej get a seat.
The affected residents have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status rather than hold a British passport, despite having lived, worked and raised families here for more than 50 years.
Cllr Kooner claimed the policy amounted to 'discrimination'.
India suspended all international and domestic flights from March 24 to restrict the spread of Covid-19.
Countries including the UK, Germany, Norway and Canada have since chartered lots of flights to repatriate stranded nationals.
Those from the UK with ILR status are not automatically entitled to a seat, like those who hold British passports.
But the Government has promised to "consider, on a limited, case-by-case basis, offering spare seats on our repatriation flights to vulnerable foreign nationals who hold indefinite leave to remain (ILR) with a recent connection to the UK."
More flights are due to leave this week, taking hundreds more out of the country, said the Foreign Office.
Among those affected is father of three Harbans Singh, 75, from Wolverhampton.
His daughter Jaz Sidhu, a recruitment consultant, said her father was now alone and anxious in the Punjab and his wife was alone at their home, crying for him.
“It is an awful situation and the impact has been horrendous.”
Harbans, who has an Indian passport, went to visit his ancestral village for his annual three week holiday in early March. But he became trapped when flights were cancelled as part of strict lockdown measures introduced by the Indian government.
He has since had a sign posted on the front door of his home warning he is in quarantine.
Despite the two week quarantine long since expiring, he has been warned by fellow villagers not to venture out, amid fears that those who have come into India from abroad are ‘carriers’ of the virus.
Mr Singh has high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and has respiratory issues linked to a lifetime spent working in foundries in the Black Country.
Daughter Jaz said he had registered for emergency flights out of India but ever since she has had nothing other than a standard email every day to say he is on a waiting list.
She said she had been bombarding the Foreign Office, the Indian consulate and anyone involved in the issue to try to get her father out, so far in vain.
“He has served our country all his life," she said.
"He came over as a young man and worked in the foundries – it was hot, dangerous work. He raised us here – three children – and worked 15 hours a day to make sure we had every opportunity.
“He cares for us, and also supports his ancestral village and extended family in the Punjab.
“It makes me so angry that he has made constant sacrifices but is being treated like a second class citizen of this country. It is heart breaking.”
To make matters worse, Jaz’s mother is having to isolate at home alone because of her health conditions – she has suffered a series of strokes and a brain injury.
“Normally dad is her full time carer, except when he has his holiday. As a family we are looking after her, providing food and meals every day that we leave on the doorstep, and stopping by the house every evening to check on her; I wave to her through the window.
“But we are so worried about her. She needs dad here.”
It’s a similar story for Avtar Singh Dhillon, an IT consultant, whose mother Simerjit Kaur flew out earlier this year on a mercy dash to be with her terminally sister during her final weeks.
Her sister died in March and, following her funeral, Simerjit attempted to get an early flight home with other relatives, but to no avail.
“She travelled with another elderly relative Gurmej Kaur, who also has an Indian passport, and two other relatives who had UK passports. Those with UK passports have since been able to return home," said Mr Dhillon, 48.
“Her nephew Bahadar Singh, who also does not have a UK passport, flew out to attend his mother’s funeral and is also stranded too. They are all in different places, unable to see and support each other.
“It is very frightening.
“Every day I speak to my mother and she is crying and scared.
"She is terrified, as coronavirus begins to impact the communities around her.”
The family are especially worried because she has severe asthma and respiratory conditions, is out of medication, and has suffered a nervous breakdown in the past.
She is in constant distress, and is not sleeping well or eating, added Mr Dhillon.
“It is heartbreaking. We are desperate for her to be home and safe. Every day we email and contact the Foreign Office and the consulate and every day we are told they are on a waiting list.”
The family thought they had achieved success when all three – Simerjit, Gurmej and nephew Bahadar Singh - were offered a flight back, which they paid for, costing more than £1,600.
But on the day of the flight they were not picked up as arranged - under the restrictions, travellers must wait to be collected and taken to the airport.
“It’s diabolical. I can’t believe what’s happening. She is losing hope now, she does not believe she will ever come back alive. It is very distressing and a massive strain on us all. We are trying to organise medication for her but are worried about how safe it is.
“She came over to Birmingham in her late teens and has lived here ever since, in Aston and Great Barr.
“She is staying in the village where she was married but there is a lot of distrust now about coronavirus so she is very isolated.
“I am working night and day to try to get her home. I have sent a letter about her medical needs, proof residency all these years, anything to help her case.”
The family has made an official complaint about the handling of their case.
Cllr Kooner said: “I am hearing stories like this daily. People with ILR status feel they have been abandoned by the British government, while in India they are facing increasing victimisation as ‘outsiders’ who may have brought the virus in.
“ The Foreign and Commonwealth Office have said that they will repatriate British nationals as a priority, and will repatriate ILR residents where they have capacity.
“This is totally unacceptable and this policy needs to change as the residents in question are UK nationals, with ‘Indefinite Leave to Remain’ and most have lived in the UK for 50 plus years and have paid into the system," said Cllr Kooner.
“They may not hold a British passport, but they are permanent residents of the UK and this is a repeat of the discrimination of the Windrush Scandal," said Cllr Kooner.
“To make matters worse, most of the UK nationals with ILR are older black and Asian ethnic minority residents with underlying health conditions and have run out of medication during the lockdown – the most vulnerable group for Covid 19, according to the statistics that have been released.
“The FCO is saying that they have a support mechanism in India - however, even if they have some relatives abroad, they are not able to assist each other due to the lockdown," added Cllr Kooner.
"These UK nationals are totally isolated, frightened and many with increased risk to their health, due to existing health conditions.
“The FCO should be aware of how many people have registered onto their website and organise enough flights to repatriate all UK nationals, not just British citizens.”
She said she was also hearing horror stories about corruption in India, while concerns are mounting about the impact of an imminent heatwave.
Cllr Kooner added that families are not seeking charity - they were expected to pay for flights home; but without the help of the Foreign Office they are stranded.
In a response to the families, the Foreign Office wrote to say: “I appreciate this is a difficult time for you and the family. We are prioritising British nationals stranded overseas as short-term visitors, who are therefore less likely to have support networks in that country. This support extends to them and their immediate family members (spouse and children) who live with them in the UK.
"Our objective remains to bring home British travellers who want to return to the UK, as soon as possible. British travellers will therefore be prioritised for seats on HMG repatriation flights.
"However, we recognise the acute challenges of the Covid-19 virus. Hence, we will consider, on a limited, case-by-case basis, offering spare seats on our repatriation flights to vulnerable foreign nationals who hold indefinite leave to remain (ILR) with a recent connection to the UK (shown by not having been continuously absent from the UK for a period of more than a year prior to applying for a seat on a repatriation flight)."
They add: “This does not represent a change to our long-standing consular policy of offering support based on nationality rather than residence. Rather, this is an additional, temporary offer of support to a limited number of vulnerable non-British nationals reflecting the exceptional and acute challenges of the COVID 19 crisis.”
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, when asked about the issue last week, said the Government was working flat out with its international counterparts to repatriate as many people as possible, as quickly as possible.
A Foreign Office spokesman said the policy set out in emails to the families was correct.
But he pledged to look into the cases outlined in our story and check if and when those featured are due to fly home.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Town's tips remain closed despite decision to reopen in neighbouring cities

A Black Country council has no confirmed date to reopen its tips – despite two major neighbouring cities announcing differing plans .
A spokesman for Walsall Council told BlackCountryLive that no date had been set but were looking at all possible options on Tuesday , May 5 .
They added : `` At this time , no date can be confirmed for the reopening of Walsall household waste and recycling centres .
Please be assured we are looking at all options in order to be able to reopen tips in some capacity as soon as it is safe and possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement came after Wolverhampton City Council and Birmingham City Council revealed that they would be reopening their household recycling centres .
Tips across Wolverhampton will open in a phased approach within the next couple of weeks , a spokesman for the authority confirmed .
Councillor Steve Evans , Cabinet Member for City Environment at City of Wolverhampton Council said : “ The council has been working hard to draw up plans to reopen these important public services , safely and effectively .
`` Logistically , we ’ ve had to consider how they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing rules and traffic management .
`` At the height of the crisis , it was important we closed these services in line with government guidance until the national and local conditions were right to consider reopening .
`` We have developed plans which put social distancing at the heart of our safety approach , ensuring we protect residents and employees .
This will mean a very different experience for visitors .
While Birmingham City Council said they were reopening four of the five tips across the city this week .
The sites @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sutton Coldfield and Tyseley will be taking waste from 11am - 8pm on weekdays , with shorter hours over the weekend .
However , the Castle Bromwich site is to remain shut due to urgent road works outside , Birmingham City Council said .
Cllr John O'Shea , Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Parks at BCC , said : `` I know there have been concerns over what to do with waste that would normally be taken to our Household Recycling Centres during their closure .
`` We had to close them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our effort to ensure social distancing to protect the NHS and save lives – as well as the fact that trips to the HRC were not listed as an essential reason for travel in the Government ’ s regulations .
`` As such , we ’ ve been reviewing daily what we could do to open up some of the related services which have also had to temporarily stop whilst we respond to the national emergency .
`` I am pleased we have got to the point where we can now offer bulky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Government guidelines on essential travel – we can open most of the HRCs again . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
A Black Country council has no confirmed date to reopen its tips – despite two major neighbouring cities announcing differing plans.
A spokesman for Walsall Council told BlackCountryLive that no date had been set but were looking at all possible options on Tuesday, May 5.
They added: "At this time, no date can be confirmed for the reopening of Walsall household waste and recycling centres. Please be assured we are looking at all options in order to be able to reopen tips in some capacity as soon as it is safe and possible to do so."
The news announcement came after Wolverhampton City Council and Birmingham City Council revealed that they would be reopening their household recycling centres.
Tips across Wolverhampton will open in a phased approach within the next couple of weeks, a spokesman for the authority confirmed.
Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment at City of Wolverhampton Council said: “The council has been working hard to draw up plans to reopen these important public services, safely and effectively.
"Logistically, we’ve had to consider how they can operate whilst adhering to strict social distancing rules and traffic management.
"At the height of the crisis, it was important we closed these services in line with government guidance until the national and local conditions were right to consider reopening.
"We have developed plans which put social distancing at the heart of our safety approach, ensuring we protect residents and employees. This will mean a very different experience for visitors.
While Birmingham City Council said they were reopening four of the five tips across the city this week.
The sites in Kings Norton, Perry Barr, Sutton Coldfield and Tyseley will be taking waste from 11am - 8pm on weekdays, with shorter hours over the weekend.
However, the Castle Bromwich site is to remain shut due to urgent road works outside, Birmingham City Council said.
Cllr John O'Shea, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Parks at BCC, said: "I know there have been concerns over what to do with waste that would normally be taken to our Household Recycling Centres during their closure.
"We had to close them on public safety grounds as part of our effort to ensure social distancing to protect the NHS and save lives – as well as the fact that trips to the HRC were not listed as an essential reason for travel in the Government’s regulations.
"As such, we’ve been reviewing daily what we could do to open up some of the related services which have also had to temporarily stop whilst we respond to the national emergency.
"I am pleased we have got to the point where we can now offer bulky waste bookings, and following recent changes to Government guidelines on essential travel – we can open most of the HRCs again."


birminghammail--2020-05-06--How to tell if you have coronavirus or just hay fever

It ’ s coming to the time of year that has most hay fever sufferers dread , but how can you tell if you need to worry about your runny nose ?
As the weather gets warmer the pollen count begins to peak which can lead to symptoms such a blocked or runny nose , sneezing and sometimes a cough .
A doctor from the Black Country has spoken out to advice people how to tell the difference between hay fever and coronavirus symptoms .
Dr Ian Sykes , Chair at NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runny or blocked nose , sneezing , sore and watering eyes – but also sometimes a cough .
As a continuous dry cough is one of the main symptoms of Covid-19 , it ’ s important to compare your own symptoms to previous years .
“ If you are concerned that your symptoms are different or more severe than normal , please use NHS 111 online or speak to your GP .
In any event , it is still important to bin used tissues , keep washing your hands , and only leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risk of spreading or contracting Covid-19.
” Pharmacists can also give advice and suggest the best treatments for hay fever symptoms , like antihistamine drops , tablets or nasal sprays to help with itchy and watery eyes and sneezing .
People who have hay fever and asthma are encouraged to continue to take their asthma medicines as prescribed .
Dr Sykes added : “ Contrary to recent rumours , you can carry on taking antihistamines without any worry that this is making you more susceptible to Covid-19 or compromising your immune system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ antihistamines to reduce sneezing – which could transmit the virus if you are unknowingly carrying it.
” If your symptoms are significantly different to ‘ normal ’ and you have specific symptoms of Covid-19 – a new , persistent cough and a high temperature – you can use the 111 online coronavirus service .
You are advised not go to places like a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital if you think you might have coronavirus .
If your symptoms are mild , the message is to follow government advice and self-isolate for @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
It’s coming to the time of year that has most hay fever sufferers dread, but how can you tell if you need to worry about your runny nose?
As the weather gets warmer the pollen count begins to peak which can lead to symptoms such a blocked or runny nose, sneezing and sometimes a cough.
A doctor from the Black Country has spoken out to advice people how to tell the difference between hay fever and coronavirus symptoms.
Dr Ian Sykes, Chair at NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG, said: “Typical hay fever symptoms include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, sore and watering eyes – but also sometimes a cough. As a continuous dry cough is one of the main symptoms of Covid-19, it’s important to compare your own symptoms to previous years.
“If you are concerned that your symptoms are different or more severe than normal, please use NHS 111 online or speak to your GP.
In any event, it is still important to bin used tissues, keep washing your hands, and only leave your home for necessary journeys to reduce the risk of spreading or contracting Covid-19.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Pharmacists can also give advice and suggest the best treatments for hay fever symptoms, like antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays to help with itchy and watery eyes and sneezing.
People who have hay fever and asthma are encouraged to continue to take their asthma medicines as prescribed.
Dr Sykes added: “Contrary to recent rumours, you can carry on taking antihistamines without any worry that this is making you more susceptible to Covid-19 or compromising your immune system. It is also important to take antihistamines to reduce sneezing – which could transmit the virus if you are unknowingly carrying it.”
If your symptoms are significantly different to ‘normal’ and you have specific symptoms of Covid-19 – a new, persistent cough and a high temperature – you can use the 111 online coronavirus service.
You are advised not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital if you think you might have coronavirus. If your symptoms are mild, the message is to follow government advice and self-isolate for at least seven days.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Aston Villa handed stern warning over Operation Restart hopes

League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan has warned Aston Villa ’ s Premier League season could be cancelled if clubs do not agree to play in neutral venues .
Negotiations are still ongoing about how the 2019/20 camapaign will be completed , with a June 12 restart date still on the agenda .
In a proposal delivered to all 20 Premier League clubs last Friday , the league proposed that the season would be finished in eight to 10 neutral stadiums .
With 92 games of the season still to be played , time is of the essence to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ramp up next week , with Boris Johnson set to address the nation on Sunday , March 10 over lockdown measures to combat COVID-19 .
However , with teams fighting relegation opposing the current suggestions of neutral stadiums , most recently Villa ’ s CEO Christian Purslow , Bevan has warned that the season may not finish if they fail to comply .
Bevan told BBC Radio 4 ’ s Today programme : “ Yes , I think that probably is correct .
The government , if they haven ’ t already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home matches with densely populated stadia , really puts into question whether social distancing rules can be adhered to .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Elliott Jackson, Brian Dick)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan has warned Aston Villa ’s Premier League season could be cancelled if clubs do not agree to play in neutral venues.
Negotiations are still ongoing about how the 2019/20 camapaign will be completed, with a June 12 restart date still on the agenda.
In a proposal delivered to all 20 Premier League clubs last Friday, the league proposed that the season would be finished in eight to 10 neutral stadiums.
With 92 games of the season still to be played, time is of the essence to complete the campaign.
Talks are expected to ramp up next week, with Boris Johnson set to address the nation on Sunday, March 10 over lockdown measures to combat COVID-19.
However, with teams fighting relegation opposing the current suggestions of neutral stadiums, most recently Villa’s CEO Christian Purslow, Bevan has warned that the season may not finish if they fail to comply.
Bevan told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “Yes, I think that probably is correct. The government, if they haven’t already, will be making it clear that home matches with densely populated stadia, really puts into question whether social distancing rules can be adhered to.”