birminghammail--2020-07-03--Health teams poised to crack down on small Covid outbreaks in city

Public health chiefs urgently need full access to 'street level ' maps of coronavirus cases held by the Government so they can deal with any flare-ups - and avoid a Leicester-style lockdown .
Being able to see and use micro data will mean they can spot a cluster instantly in a small geographical area and act fast to isolate those at risk , they say .
Otherwise the city 's `` fragile '' emergence out of lockdown and the reopening of more businesses and shops could be derailed .
That 's the stark message in a letter to Health Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of city MPs and the city council 's leader Ian Ward today .
They say the extra data is a vital aid to the fight against outbreaks - particularly in poorer areas and in more diverse communities .
This would enable the `` targeting of appropriate interventions '' by public health teams - likely to include infection control and isolation measures like mini-lockdowns .
The city , like others across the country , is desperate to avoid an outbreak on the scale of that seen in Leicester , which has triggered a citywide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay closed .
In their letter , sent today ( Friday ) , the group of MPs , led by Liam Byrne ( Lab , Hodge Hill ) and Andrew Mitchell ( Cons , Sutton Coldfield ) , join with Cllr Ward to say : `` We welcome the steps taken by Government over the last 24 hours to broaden the type of data being shared with Local Authorities , which will include the provision of data relating to cases at a post-code level .
`` That said , more could be done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available on a street level via the Public Health England GIS case mapping platform .
This enables a rapid understanding of Covid-19 cases in terms of demographics , outbreaks and geography and is especially useful when looking at clusters along the borders of local areas which are not easily linked through the line listed data currently received .
`` The importance of having this level of insight can not be overstated .
It will enable interventions to be made swiftly to prevent the spread of the virus .
`` Given that Birmingham has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country , and consequently communities that are at greater risk from coronavirus , this is all the more important . ''
At the moment directors of public health say they can not access this information .
`` We require your urgent clarification that this will be remedied . ''
They add that the issue of data is not only crucial in the context of protecting the public , it is also crucial in the context of enabling a sustained economic recovery .
`` In the eventuality that there are spikes in cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required , putting these in place in a targeted manner , limited to the smallest possible geographies , will enable other areas of the City to continue on their journey to recovery , without interruption .
`` This will provide a level of certainty and confidence to both the public and businesses alike , that localised spikes will not derail plans to reopen different parts of the economy .
`` Our recovery is in a fragile state as the Government will be the first to recognise and we must all work proactively together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible , a situation in which whole communities and business sectors are having to switch intermittently between a state of lockdown and relative ‘ normality ’ .
`` We are hoping to hear from you – urgently- that access to the GIS case mapping platform will be made available to Directors of Public Health as soon as possible . ''
Get all the latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
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There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who represents us .
There 's also all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store Not for the first time , local councils have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to data that could help them identify risk .
Earlier this week we reported that directors of public health were now getting more live data about positive test results across the region , after weeks of lobbying for it , but could not share that information with residents or communities .
They also warned the data was still lacking in occupation and work postcode information - vital bits of the puzzle that can help them spot trends or outbreaks quickly .
Independent SAGE , an alternative group of top scientists to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's vital that local teams have every bit of information they can get to avoid a Leicester-style situation .
It arose `` out of a failure to respond to the increase of infections in Leicester and other localities at an early stage and before they reached crisis levels . ''
They say this was in part due to `` an excessive centralisation and unavailability of data '' combined with a fragmented testing system and poor coordination between councils and the NHS and Public Health England .
In a statement the Department for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All councils in England now have the ability to access testing data , right down to an individual and postcode level .
“ PHE has already been providing this data to directors of public health in the event of an outbreak so that they can take all necessary action to curb the spread.
” They added the data had been shared with PHE `` for months '' and then shared on to locally based health protection teams , working with local councils and directors of public health .
A new operational data dashboard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS Digital , which included counts of positive case by council area , but it only stepped up to include postcoded information on June 24 .
They added : `` The Government is committed to publishing data on test results in due course , to ensure it is accessible to the public .

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Public health chiefs urgently need full access to 'street level' maps of coronavirus cases held by the Government so they can deal with any flare-ups - and avoid a Leicester-style lockdown.
Being able to see and use micro data will mean they can spot a cluster instantly in a small geographical area and act fast to isolate those at risk, they say.
This could include small, targeted area 'lockdowns'.
Otherwise the city's "fragile" emergence out of lockdown and the reopening of more businesses and shops could be derailed.
That's the stark message in a letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock from a cross party group of city MPs and the city council's leader Ian Ward today.
They say the extra data is a vital aid to the fight against outbreaks - particularly in poorer areas and in more diverse communities.
(Image: Getty Images)
This would enable the "targeting of appropriate interventions" by public health teams - likely to include infection control and isolation measures like mini-lockdowns.
The city, like others across the country, is desperate to avoid an outbreak on the scale of that seen in Leicester, which has triggered a citywide lockdown and forced shops and pubs to stay closed.
In their letter, sent today (Friday), the group of MPs, led by Liam Byrne (Lab, Hodge Hill) and Andrew Mitchell (Cons, Sutton Coldfield), join with Cllr Ward to say: "We welcome the steps taken by Government over the last 24 hours to broaden the type of data being shared with Local Authorities, which will include the provision of data relating to cases at a post-code level.
"That said, more could be done.
"We understand that data is available on a street level via the Public Health England GIS case mapping platform. This enables a rapid understanding of Covid-19 cases in terms of demographics, outbreaks and geography and is especially useful when looking at clusters along the borders of local areas which are not easily linked through the line listed data currently received.
"The importance of having this level of insight cannot be overstated. It will enable interventions to be made swiftly to prevent the spread of the virus.
"Given that Birmingham has some of the most diverse communities in the country, and consequently communities that are at greater risk from coronavirus, this is all the more important."
At the moment directors of public health say they cannot access this information.
"We require your urgent clarification that this will be remedied."
They add that the issue of data is not only crucial in the context of protecting the public, it is also crucial in the context of enabling a sustained economic recovery.
"In the eventuality that there are spikes in cases of Covid-19 and further lockdown restrictions are required, putting these in place in a targeted manner, limited to the smallest possible geographies, will enable other areas of the City to continue on their journey to recovery, without interruption.
"This will provide a level of certainty and confidence to both the public and businesses alike, that localised spikes will not derail plans to reopen different parts of the economy.
"Our recovery is in a fragile state as the Government will be the first to recognise and we must all work proactively together to reinforce it – avoiding, where possible, a situation in which whole communities and business sectors are having to switch intermittently between a state of lockdown and relative ‘normality’.
"We are hoping to hear from you – urgently- that access to the GIS case mapping platform will be made available to Directors of Public Health as soon as possible."
Not for the first time, local councils have expressed frustration about how much access they have to data that could help them identify risk.
Earlier this week we reported that directors of public health were now getting more live data about positive test results across the region, after weeks of lobbying for it, but could not share that information with residents or communities.
They also warned the data was still lacking in occupation and work postcode information - vital bits of the puzzle that can help them spot trends or outbreaks quickly.
Independent SAGE, an alternative group of top scientists to the official SAGE group advising Government, say it's vital that local teams have every bit of information they can get to avoid a Leicester-style situation.
It arose "out of a failure to respond to the increase of infections in Leicester and other localities at an early stage and before they reached crisis levels."
They say this was in part due to "an excessive centralisation and unavailability of data" combined with a fragmented testing system and poor coordination between councils and the NHS and Public Health England.
In a statement the Department for Health and Social Care said: “All councils in England now have the ability to access testing data, right down to an individual and postcode level.
“PHE has already been providing this data to directors of public health in the event of an outbreak so that they can take all necessary action to curb the spread.”
They added the data had been shared with PHE "for months" and then shared on to locally based health protection teams, working with local councils and directors of public health.
A new operational data dashboard had been launched on June 11 by NHS Digital, which included counts of positive case by council area, but it only stepped up to include postcoded information on June 24.
They added: "The Government is committed to publishing data on test results in due course, to ensure it is accessible to the public.


birminghammail--2020-07-03--The brilliant photos Marc Albrighton has shared with us

Marc Albrighton 's family have kindly raided their keepsake box to dig out these belters Not only did the Aston @ @ @ @ @ spare us a big chunk of his time to reminisce for our Claret & Blue @ @ @ @ @ fan also asked him mom Carol to dig through their family keepsakes to share some @ @ @ @ @ A massive thank you to the Albrightons for allowing us to publish never-before-seen photos of @ @ @ @ @ , playing for the Villa youth team , and kicking a heavy-looking ball in his @ @ @ @ @ .
The family have even managed to dig out an old Birmingham Mail cutting proclaiming @ @ @ @ @ someone called Daniel Sturridge ) as a future star .
How right we were !
@ @ @ @ @ together with some classic snaps from our archives to bring you Marc Albrighton 's Aston @ @ @ @ @ Hope you enjoy flicking through it .

Marc Albrighton's family have kindly raided their keepsake box to dig out these belters
What a bloke Marc Albrighton is.
Not only did the Aston Villa youngster-turned Premier League winner spare us a big chunk of his time to reminisce for our Claret & Blue podcast.
The boyhood Villa fan also asked him mom Carol to dig through their family keepsakes to share some wonderful photos with us.
A massive thank you to the Albrightons for allowing us to publish never-before-seen photos of Marc autograph-hunting at Bodymoor Heath, playing for the Villa youth team, and kicking a heavy-looking ball in his junior football days in Tamworth.
The family have even managed to dig out an old Birmingham Mail cutting proclaiming an eight-year-old Albrighton (and someone called Daniel Sturridge) as a future star. How right we were!
We've put these photos together with some classic snaps from our archives to bring you Marc Albrighton's Aston Villa photo album here.
Hope you enjoy flicking through it.


birminghammail--2020-07-03--Birmingham City fans react as David Cornell transfer rumour emerges

Birmingham City fans have been reacting to a transfer rumour linking them with a move for goalkeeper David Cornell .
The rumour was first reported by website Football Insider today , with Championship rivals Derby County and League One side Ipswich Town also credited with an interest .
Cornell has departed from Northampton Town only days after he helped Keith Curle 's side to promotion to League One through the play-offs .
The Daily Mail are also reporting Blues ' interest in the 29-year-old and claim it was his decision to leave the Cobblers for a fresh start somewhere else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a new club on the back of a fine season at Sixfields having kept 13 clean sheets earning him a place in the fourth tier 's team of the season .
And we 've been asking Blues fans who they want to start 2020-21 as the club 's number one with the Cornell rumour gathering pace .
`` Keep Camp , we need a striker and a defender , '' said another .
A third added : `` I don ’ t understand how we can be linked with players when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? ''
`` Camp , '' a fourth fan said .
`` We need a defence , not sure why it 's always the 'keeper we are talking about !
We need a captain as well . ''
`` In Camp we trust , he has his bad games but always steps up when we need him , '' said another .
A sixth fan chipped in with a different name : `` Joe Hart . ''

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Birmingham City fans have been reacting to a transfer rumour linking them with a move for goalkeeper David Cornell.
The rumour was first reported by website Football Insider today, with Championship rivals Derby County and League One side Ipswich Town also credited with an interest.
Cornell has departed from Northampton Town only days after he helped Keith Curle's side to promotion to League One through the play-offs.
The Daily Mail are also reporting Blues' interest in the 29-year-old and claim it was his decision to leave the Cobblers for a fresh start somewhere else.
Indeed, he is hoping to get a new club on the back of a fine season at Sixfields having kept 13 clean sheets earning him a place in the fourth tier's team of the season.
And we've been asking Blues fans who they want to start 2020-21 as the club's number one with the Cornell rumour gathering pace.
"Lee Camp," one said.
"Keep Camp, we need a striker and a defender," said another.
A third added: "I don’t understand how we can be linked with players when we haven’t even got a manager?"
"Camp," a fourth fan said. "We need a defence, not sure why it's always the 'keeper we are talking about! We need a captain as well."
"In Camp we trust, he has his bad games but always steps up when we need him," said another.
A sixth fan chipped in with a different name: "Joe Hart."


birminghammail--2020-07-03--Police called after man's body discovered in North Warwickshire  village

Warwickshire Police were called out after a man 's body was discovered at a property in Arley .
Officers attended @ @ @ @ @ Road , Arley , in North Warwickshire , at 3.56pm yesterday ( Thursday , July @ @ @ @ @ is not being treated as suspicious , the force said .
Next of kin has @ @ @ @ @ has been passed to the coroner .
Warwickshire Police provided the details via its Twitter @ @ @ @ @ 3 ) .
The force did not give any other information .
Deaths can be @ @ @ @ @ a number of reasons , including where the circumstances were sudden or unexplained , or @ @ @ @ @

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Warwickshire Police were called out after a man's body was discovered at a property in Arley.
Officers attended the address, in Rectory Road, Arley, in North Warwickshire, at 3.56pm yesterday (Thursday, July 2).
The death is not being treated as suspicious, the force said.
Next of kin has been informed and the case has been passed to the coroner.
Warwickshire Police provided the details via its Twitter feed this afternoon (July 3).
The force did not give any other information.
Deaths can be reported to a coroner for a number of reasons, including where the circumstances were sudden or unexplained, or in some medical circumstances.


birminghammail--2020-07-03--Future of Tamworth's John Lewis uncertain

The future of a big Ventura Park store remains uncertain after bosses admitted there is “ too much store space for the way people want to shop now ” .
Tamworth ’ s John Lewis has been closed during the coronavirus lockdown and it has now been confirmed that not all of the department chain ’ s stores will re open .
Whether that includes Tamworth remains unclear .
A decision is expected to be made and communicated in the coming weeks .
This week Tamworth ’ s MP Christopher Pincher wrote to John Lewis to express his concerns .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerned that the John Lewis Tamworth store is on the list of stores that are in danger of not reopening again .
“ Sadly , as the MP , I have not been told anything from John Lewis HQ however I understandably have constituents who are concerned for their jobs and worried about their livelihoods .
“ The John Lewis store in Ventura has always been a popular addition to a very large retail park and as the Member of Parliament for Tamworth I will always speak up and represent my constituents .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the chair of John Lewis to seek clarity and inviting them to a zoom call with me to discuss why our store has not and may not re-open .
`` I will keep residents informed of any further developments should John Lewis give me any further information.
” A statement to Birmingham Live from John Lewis reads : “ The reality is that we have too much store space for the way people want to shop now and we have shared this with our partners .
“ As difficult as it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen all our John Lewis stores however no decision has been made and any details would be shared with partners first by the middle of July .
”

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The future of a big Ventura Park store remains uncertain after bosses admitted there is “too much store space for the way people want to shop now”.
Tamworth’s John Lewis has been closed during the coronavirus lockdown and it has now been confirmed that not all of the department chain’s stores will re open.
Whether that includes Tamworth remains unclear. A decision is expected to be made and communicated in the coming weeks.
(Image: Google)
This week Tamworth’s MP Christopher Pincher wrote to John Lewis to express his concerns.
He said: "I am naturally concerned that the John Lewis Tamworth store is on the list of stores that are in danger of not reopening again.
“Sadly, as the MP, I have not been told anything from John Lewis HQ however I understandably have constituents who are concerned for their jobs and worried about their livelihoods.
“The John Lewis store in Ventura has always been a popular addition to a very large retail park and as the Member of Parliament for Tamworth I will always speak up and represent my constituents.
“Earlier in the week I wrote to the chair of John Lewis to seek clarity and inviting them to a zoom call with me to discuss why our store has not and may not re-open.
"I will keep residents informed of any further developments should John Lewis give me any further information.”
A statement to Birmingham Live from John Lewis reads: “The reality is that we have too much store space for the way people want to shop now and we have shared this with our partners.
“As difficult as it is, it is highly unlikely we will reopen all our John Lewis stores however no decision has been made and any details would be shared with partners first by the middle of July.”


birminghammail--2020-07-03--Orjan Nyland breaks silence on Sheffield United ghost goal

Aston Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland has broken his silence on one of the biggest officiating controversies of the season .
Nyland was picked by head coach Dean Smith to start between the sticks in Villa 's first game of the Premier League restart , against Sheffield United .
The Villans saw out a 0-0 draw - but the Bladesmen did manage to score .
However , the effort that crossed the line was not picked up at all by goal-line technology .
Nyland jumped to claim a cross , but was bundled into the goal by a rushing Keinan Davis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As Nyland fell against and behind his far post , he rolled the ball back over the line and continued play .
No goal was given , the goal-line tech did n't pick it up and VAR did n't intervene .
Much to the fury of Sheffield United .
`` It was in the Holte End , the goalkeeper was in the Holte End and eight rows back .
Everyone knew it , saw it and felt it , '' said a furious Chris Wilder after the match .
Sign up for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ box at the top of the page or click here '' I don ’ t know whether to laugh or cry .
Already the jokes have started , I ’ ve just seen Del Boy with a Hawk-Eye watch on .
It ’ s all going to come out but we ’ re pretty disappointed and we ’ ve got to get on with it . ''
Villa left with a point , perhaps a fortunate one following the event , and have n't won a game during the restart .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up on the incident .
`` I want to be an honest goalkeeper , '' said Nyland to Sky Sports News , `` and if the ball is over the line , it ’ s over . ''
`` But I had no way to know .
I trust the technology like everyone else , '' added Nyland .
`` You have to be mentally strong as a goalkeeper . ''
Nyland was n't the only Villa player to speak up about the incident - with Jack Grealish confronting the matter directly after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to the ref , ‘ I ’ ve seen it go over the line ’ and I ’ m saying to their guys : 'Surely you haven ’ t , because it would come up on his watch ’ '' said the Villa captain .
`` It ’ s never ever failed before , and Billy Sharp said to me , ‘ Jack I promise you that ball ... ’ and I said , ‘ get out of it , no chance ! ''
`` Then I ’ ve got inside and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fair bit and all I can say is I ’ m over the moon it wasn ’ t allowed , but I completely see why they ’ d be devastated and it shouldn ’ t happen in this day and age , if I ’ m honest . ''
Hawk-Eye , who provide the goal-line technology to the Premier League , said in a statement : `` During the first half of Aston Villa v Sheffield United match at Villa Park , there was a goal line incident where the ball was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goalkeeper , No .
25 Nyland .
`` The match officials did not receive a signal to the watch nor earpiece as per the Goal Decision System ( GDS ) protocol .
`` The seven cameras located in the stands around the goal area were significantly occluded by the goalkeeper , defender , and goalpost .
This level of occlusion has never been seen before in over 9,000 matches that the Hawk-Eye Goal Line Technology system has been in operation .
`` The system was tested and proved functional prior to the start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IFAB Laws of The Game and confirmed as working by the match officials .
`` The system has remained functional throughout .
Hawk-Eye unreservedly apologises to the Premier League , Sheffield United , and everyone affected by this incident . ''

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Aston Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland has broken his silence on one of the biggest officiating controversies of the season.
Nyland was picked by head coach Dean Smith to start between the sticks in Villa's first game of the Premier League restart, against Sheffield United.
The Villans saw out a 0-0 draw - but the Bladesmen did manage to score. However, the effort that crossed the line was not picked up at all by goal-line technology.
Nyland jumped to claim a cross, but was bundled into the goal by a rushing Keinan Davis who attempted to clear it himself. As Nyland fell against and behind his far post, he rolled the ball back over the line and continued play. No goal was given, the goal-line tech didn't pick it up and VAR didn't intervene.
Much to the fury of Sheffield United.
"It was in the Holte End, the goalkeeper was in the Holte End and eight rows back. Everyone knew it, saw it and felt it," said a furious Chris Wilder after the match.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Already the jokes have started, I’ve just seen Del Boy with a Hawk-Eye watch on. It’s all going to come out but we’re pretty disappointed and we’ve got to get on with it."
Villa left with a point, perhaps a fortunate one following the event, and haven't won a game during the restart.
However, Nyland has found the time to open up on the incident.
"I want to be an honest goalkeeper," said Nyland to Sky Sports News, "and if the ball is over the line, it’s over."
"But I had no way to know. I trust the technology like everyone else," added Nyland.
"You have to be mentally strong as a goalkeeper."
Nyland wasn't the only Villa player to speak up about the incident - with Jack Grealish confronting the matter directly after the match.
“They were all going to the ref, ‘I’ve seen it go over the line’ and I’m saying to their guys: 'Surely you haven’t, because it would come up on his watch’" said the Villa captain.
"It’s never ever failed before, and Billy Sharp said to me, ‘Jack I promise you that ball...’ and I said, ‘get out of it, no chance!"
"Then I’ve got inside and obviously, it’s over by a fair bit and all I can say is I’m over the moon it wasn’t allowed, but I completely see why they’d be devastated and it shouldn’t happen in this day and age, if I’m honest."
Hawk-Eye, who provide the goal-line technology to the Premier League, said in a statement: "During the first half of Aston Villa v Sheffield United match at Villa Park, there was a goal line incident where the ball was carried over the line by Aston Villa goalkeeper, No. 25 Nyland.
(Image: Getty Images)
"The match officials did not receive a signal to the watch nor earpiece as per the Goal Decision System (GDS) protocol.
"The seven cameras located in the stands around the goal area were significantly occluded by the goalkeeper, defender, and goalpost. This level of occlusion has never been seen before in over 9,000 matches that the Hawk-Eye Goal Line Technology system has been in operation.
"The system was tested and proved functional prior to the start of the match in accordance with the IFAB Laws of The Game and confirmed as working by the match officials.
"The system has remained functional throughout. Hawk-Eye unreservedly apologises to the Premier League, Sheffield United, and everyone affected by this incident."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Wetherspoons puts up food and drink prices as it reopens after lockdown

JD Wetherspoon The Square Peg was the first pub to fling open its doors on 'Super Saturday' The Corporation Street pub welcomed punters through the doors from Saturday July 4 at 8am .
However although back in business , to make up for the loss of sales over the 100 plus days of lockdown , the popular venue has increased drink prices - in line with national price hikes .
The pub which had to pour away 18,000 pints worth of beer as a result of March 's enforced closure has generally increased the price of real ale pints by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will find booze price increased by 10p .
Food prices have generally increased by approximately 20p a meal .
The exact price hike depends on location -which explains why the booze price hike is more in the city centre Brum .
A Wetherspoon spokesman told The Sun : “ Prices will go up on beer , spirits and wine , by approximately 10p a serving and by approximately 20p on a meal .
“ All we can say in this area is that we try to keep prices as competitive as possible .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ price rises but we always try and minimise them .
“ Even with price rises , the entire pub industry , including Wetherspoon , will be less profitable than before pubs closed , because costs will be so much higher.
” Regulars to the Square Peg branch will be pleased to know that the venue will always have least two beers from independent Midlands breweries on offer .
The famous Traditional Breakfast is still of course still available ( £4.40 / £3.85 ) .
And so are many of the other dishes are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disposable paper form so there is no more stickiness that would help germs to spread .
The budget daily special deals continue .
These include the popular Fish Friday ( £7.80 / £8.80 ) and Sunday Brunch ( £8.30 / £9.30 ) .
The Square Peg remains open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays but ill close at 11pm from Sunday to Thursday .
JD Wetherspoon rival G reene King which owns the Hungry Horse chain will start a phased reopening from Monday July 6 .

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JD Wetherspoon The Square Peg was the first pub to fling open its doors on 'Super Saturday'
The Corporation Street pub welcomed punters through the doors from Saturday July 4 at 8am.
However although back in business, to make up for the loss of sales over the 100 plus days of lockdown, the popular venue has increased drink prices - in line with national price hikes.
The pub which had to pour away 18,000 pints worth of beer as a result of March's enforced closure has generally increased the price of real ale pints by 20p.
Overall all UK Wetherspoon pubs will find booze price increased by 10p. Food prices have generally increased by approximately 20p a meal.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
The exact price hike depends on location -which explains why the booze price hike is more in the city centre Brum.
A Wetherspoon spokesman told The Sun : “Prices will go up on beer, spirits and wine, by approximately 10p a serving and by approximately 20p on a meal.
“All we can say in this area is that we try to keep prices as competitive as possible. From time to time there will be price rises but we always try and minimise them.
“Even with price rises, the entire pub industry, including Wetherspoon, will be less profitable than before pubs closed, because costs will be so much higher.”
Regulars to the Square Peg branch will be pleased to know that the venue will always have least two beers from independent Midlands breweries on offer.
The refillable teas and coffees cost £1.60.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
The famous Traditional Breakfast is still of course still available (£4.40 / £3.85).
And so are many of the other dishes are their massive menu - now available in disposable paper form so there is no more stickiness that would help germs to spread.
The budget daily special deals continue. These include the popular Fish Friday (£7.80 / £8.80) and Sunday Brunch (£8.30 / £9.30).
Other deals include Tuesday Steak Club (from £9.15), Thursday Curry Club (£8.05),
The Square Peg remains open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays but ill close at 11pm from Sunday to Thursday.
JD Wetherspoon rival G reene King which owns the Hungry Horse chain will start a phased reopening from Monday July 6.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Road sealed off after 'police incident' - live updates

Police have sealed off a residential road in Tettenhall .
Yew Tree Lane is currently closed between Woodthorne Road South @ @ @ @ @ an incident overnight .
It is currently unclear what happened , although photographs tweeted from @ @ @ @ @ is in place .
Officers can also be seen combing the scene for clues .
@ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police for comment and is awaiting a statement .
The road closure is @ @ @ @ @ along Westcroft Road , with motorists urged to avoid the area where possible .
A @ @ @ @ @ 's Force Support Unit said : `` Officers currently supporting @ wolvespolice preserve a scene @ @ @ @ @ overnight .
`` Small diversion in place .
Be polite to officers at location as @ @ @ @ @ diversion . ''

A residential road in Tettenhall was sealed off by police after reports of gunfire.
Police closed Yew Tree Lane between Woodthorne Road South to Wrottesley Road West after a shot was fired through a window of a house.
A cordon was in place for a number of hours while officers combed the scene for clues.
Luckily, no one was injured.
West Midlands Police said it has launched an investigation to determine what happened.
A spokesman for the force said: "We were called to reports of a shot fired through a window of a house in Yew Tree Lane, Wolverhampton, during the early hours of this morning.
"We received the report just before 3am and fortunately no one was injured.
"An investigation is under way, including a forensic examination of the scene to determine what happened."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--How Birmingham City fans can stream Fulham clash live

Birmingham City ’ s season has suddenly developed a frisson of drama following two poor showings at St Andrew ’ s .
With clubs at the bottom also picking up wins – notably Hull against Middlesbrough on Thursday night – Blues are now six points clear of the relegation zone with half a dozen matches remaining .
The EFL are yet to intervene , with Wigan set for a 12 point deduction and the case against Sheffield Wednesday having already been heard .
But Blues need to be masters of their own destiny and they can take a big step @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here As we know the remaining Championship games are being played behind closed doors which has left Bluenoses reaching for their remote controls .
It isn ’ t , Sky are showing two Championship games today , the East Midlands rivalry between Derby and Nottingham Forest which kicks of at 12.30pm and then Bristol City at home to Cardiff City , which starts at 3pm – the same time as Fulham-Blues .
Can I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Blues TV will be broadcasting the game live .
Season ticket holders have been offered a TV pass for the remaining fixtures or you can buy a one-off pass for £10 by clicking here .
Blues hero Dele Adebola will be summarising .
Pep Clotet will consider making changes to the team so soundly beaten by Huddersfield Town on Wednesday evening .
That could see a change of shape , departing from 4-4-2 against opponents who will dominate possession .
It could also come in terms of personnel , with Marc Roberts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – with the Croat a welcome returnee to what has been a porous midfield since the resumption .

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Birmingham City’s season has suddenly developed a frisson of drama following two poor showings at St Andrew’s.
With clubs at the bottom also picking up wins – notably Hull against Middlesbrough on Thursday night – Blues are now six points clear of the relegation zone with half a dozen matches remaining.
The EFL are yet to intervene, with Wigan set for a 12 point deduction and the case against Sheffield Wednesday having already been heard.
But Blues need to be masters of their own destiny and they can take a big step forward at Fulham on Saturday.
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
As we know the remaining Championship games are being played behind closed doors which has left Bluenoses reaching for their remote controls.
Is Blues v Fulham on Sky Sports?
It isn’t, Sky are showing two Championship games today, the East Midlands rivalry between Derby and Nottingham Forest which kicks of at 12.30pm and then Bristol City at home to Cardiff City, which starts at 3pm – the same time as Fulham-Blues.
Can I watch the game anywhere?
You can, Blues TV will be broadcasting the game live. Season ticket holders have been offered a TV pass for the remaining fixtures or you can buy a one-off pass for £10 by clicking here. Blues hero Dele Adebola will be summarising.
Team news
Pep Clotet will consider making changes to the team so soundly beaten by Huddersfield Town on Wednesday evening. That could see a change of shape, departing from 4-4-2 against opponents who will dominate possession.
It could also come in terms of personnel, with Marc Roberts and Ivan Sunjic back available following injury – with the Croat a welcome returnee to what has been a porous midfield since the resumption.
Match odds
Fulham win 8/11
Draw 14/5
Blues win: 15/4


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Major pub chain rivalling Wetherspoon has decided not to reopen today

Super Saturday may have signalled the opening of many of our favourite bars chains but one pub operator is not open for business .
Greene King which owns Wacky Warehouses , Hungry Horses , Chef and Brewers has chosen to remain closed this weekend - due to social distancing issues - even though PM Boris Johnson has shortened the two metre rule to `` one metre plus '' .
According to Yorkshire Live , the group 's first venues will reopen on Monday , July 6 - the start of a phased reopening of pubs .
A company spokeswoman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be viable to open immediately , even with the reduction in social distancing guidance to one metre alongside additional measures , but we expect to open 1,294 , over two-thirds of our managed estate in phase one .
`` We are working on the re-opening date for the second phase and will confirm it as soon as we can .
`` The safety of our team and customers is our top priority and we are confident the measures we are introducing outlined in our PUBSAFE promises will mean our pubs will operate safely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Greene King , like longtime rival JD Wetherspoons , serves up budget beer and food at its Hungry Horse pubs for millions of regulars .
Today there were queues outside pubs in Birmingham as they all began to reopen for the first time .
Prices had gone up at Wetherspoons .
A Downing Street spokesman said : `` We do want people to be able to enjoy themselves but at the same time , now we have got coronavirus under control we need to keep it under control . ''
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to follow it and then we can make more progress together in the fight against coronavirus .
`` The PM has said that it is important that people do n't overdo it . ''
Greene King pubs include Garden House on Hagley Road , Bear Tavern on Hagley Road and Intercepter in West Bromwhich .
All three will reopen Monday July 6 as part of the company 's Phase One .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charles Gray, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Super Saturday may have signalled the opening of many of our favourite bars chains but one pub operator is not open for business.
Greene King which owns Wacky Warehouses, Hungry Horses, Chef and Brewers has chosen to remain closed this weekend - due to social distancing issues - even though PM Boris Johnson has shortened the two metre rule to "one metre plus".
According to Yorkshire Live, the group's first venues will reopen on Monday, July 6 - the start of a phased reopening of pubs.
A company spokeswoman said: "Not all our pubs will be viable to open immediately, even with the reduction in social distancing guidance to one metre alongside additional measures, but we expect to open 1,294, over two-thirds of our managed estate in phase one.
"We are working on the re-opening date for the second phase and will confirm it as soon as we can.
"The safety of our team and customers is our top priority and we are confident the measures we are introducing outlined in our PUBSAFE promises will mean our pubs will operate safely for both customers and team members."
Greene King, like longtime rival JD Wetherspoons, serves up budget beer and food at its Hungry Horse pubs for millions of regulars.
Today there were queues outside pubs in Birmingham as they all began to reopen for the first time. Prices had gone up at Wetherspoons.
A Downing Street spokesman said: "We do want people to be able to enjoy themselves but at the same time, now we have got coronavirus under control we need to keep it under control."
"The guidance is there, we want people to follow it and then we can make more progress together in the fight against coronavirus.
"The PM has said that it is important that people don't overdo it."
Greene King pubs include Garden House on Hagley Road, Bear Tavern on Hagley Road and Intercepter in West Bromwhich. All three will reopen Monday July 6 as part of the company's Phase One.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Liverpool aiming for six wins ahead of Villa clash, says Ox

Liverpool ’ s mindset is only to win the remaining six Premier League matches , starting with Aston Villa , says Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain .
The Reds were crowned champions last week when Manchester City were beaten by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge , though City have since trounced Jurgen Klopp ’ s side at the Etihad Stadium .
For Villa , these remaining matches represent an opportunity to secure survival ; they ’ re currently one point adrift of Watford , having climbed above Bournemouth by default in the week .
Midfielder Oxlade-Chamberlain has echoed manager Klopp ’ s sentiments in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Villa at Anfield , though - opting for a first-choice starting line-up , they intend on taking maximum points from their remaining fixtures .
Oxlade-Chamberlain admits there ’ s no let-up in training , despite the title being secured .
“ It ’ s intense .
There ’ s no days off at all and there ’ s no tolerance for levels to drop , ” Oxlade-Chamberlain told BBC Sport .
“ If they do from time to time as a team , we ’ re reminded that that ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where we need to be to progress further .
“ I think this sort of period now is a really good period for us .
Obviously we ’ ve achieved what we ’ ve achieved now and that ’ s massive for us as a team and , more importantly , for the football club after so long for the fans .
“ It ’ s a test of , ‘ Right , now we need to go again and we need to go to the next stage and how far can we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s hard to keep up those levels and that consistency every year .
We now need to keep pushing and pushing ourselves .
“ Playing for this manager , that ’ s exactly what he does every day .
That ’ s just normal now .
We ’ re still in the same mindset of finishing as strong as possible and winning all the games .
”

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Liverpool’s mindset is only to win the remaining six Premier League matches, starting with Aston Villa, says Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The Reds were crowned champions last week when Manchester City were beaten by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, though City have since trounced Jurgen Klopp’s side at the Etihad Stadium.
For Villa, these remaining matches represent an opportunity to secure survival; they’re currently one point adrift of Watford, having climbed above Bournemouth by default in the week.
Midfielder Oxlade-Chamberlain has echoed manager Klopp’s sentiments in the week leading up to the encounter with Villa at Anfield, though - opting for a first-choice starting line-up, they intend on taking maximum points from their remaining fixtures.
Oxlade-Chamberlain admits there’s no let-up in training, despite the title being secured.
“It’s intense. There’s no days off at all and there’s no tolerance for levels to drop,” Oxlade-Chamberlain told BBC Sport. “If they do from time to time as a team, we’re reminded that that’s not good enough and that’s not where we need to be to progress further.
“I think this sort of period now is a really good period for us. Obviously we’ve achieved what we’ve achieved now and that’s massive for us as a team and, more importantly, for the football club after so long for the fans.
“It’s a test of, ‘Right, now we need to go again and we need to go to the next stage and how far can we push this?’
“It’s hard to keep up those levels and that consistency every year. We now need to keep pushing and pushing ourselves.
“Playing for this manager, that’s exactly what he does every day. That’s just normal now. We’re still in the same mindset of finishing as strong as possible and winning all the games.”


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Bilic and the Albion players will be checking the results today

Slaven Bilic , like his West Brom players and supporters , will be keeping a keen eye on results elsewhere on Saturday as Albion prepare to welcome Hull City to The Hawthorns 24 hours after their promotion rivals do battle .
Brentford host relegation threatened Wigan , while Leeds United head to Blackburn and Fulham host Blues at the top of the Championship table .
That ’ s not to mention the East Midlands derby at lunch-time .
Many managers and players mightn ’ t take notice of how their rivals fare elsewhere ; depending on the set of results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come under more pressure from those below them in the league table .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com Bilic , though , doesn ’ t mind his players checking up on the scores around the country involving the aforementioned clubs , provided they arrive at The Hawthorns on Sunday afternoon prepared to do their own job - regardless of how the situation looks at the top .
“ The fans are checking other results , I ’ m checking other results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - if they play the day before , of course , ” Bilic explained .
“ They can make it easier or more difficult for us , but we must be totally concentrated on what we do .
Nobody is going to do the job for us in our game - focus on our job and then , if we benefit from the other results then great .
“ If we don ’ t - great again !
We ’ re in a position where other results are affecting us , of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - if we win , they don ’ t matter .
“ If we play at 3pm and they play at 12:30 , or we play at 5pm and they play at 3pm , they can affect you more because that ’ s the time when you should be concentrating on you .
“ When you ’ re checking the score half an hour before you warm up - that ’ s what I don ’ t like .
“ If they play the day before , you can watch the whole game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time for your entire preparation .
“ I don ’ t mind it .
It ’ s not a big thing .
We have to do our job .
”

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Slaven Bilic, like his West Brom players and supporters, will be keeping a keen eye on results elsewhere on Saturday as Albion prepare to welcome Hull City to The Hawthorns 24 hours after their promotion rivals do battle.
Brentford host relegation threatened Wigan, while Leeds United head to Blackburn and Fulham host Blues at the top of the Championship table. That’s not to mention the East Midlands derby at lunch-time.
Many managers and players mightn’t take notice of how their rivals fare elsewhere; depending on the set of results, Albion could stand to benefit or come under more pressure from those below them in the league table.
Bilic, though, doesn’t mind his players checking up on the scores around the country involving the aforementioned clubs, provided they arrive at The Hawthorns on Sunday afternoon prepared to do their own job - regardless of how the situation looks at the top.
“The fans are checking other results, I’m checking other results, the players are checking other results - if they play the day before, of course,” Bilic explained.
“They can make it easier or more difficult for us, but we must be totally concentrated on what we do. Nobody is going to do the job for us in our game - focus on our job and then, if we benefit from the other results then great.
“If we don’t - great again! We’re in a position where other results are affecting us, of course, but they’re not crucial - if we win, they don’t matter.
“If we play at 3pm and they play at 12:30, or we play at 5pm and they play at 3pm, they can affect you more because that’s the time when you should be concentrating on you.
“When you’re checking the score half an hour before you warm up - that’s what I don’t like.
“If they play the day before, you can watch the whole game - after that, you have enough time for your entire preparation.
“I don’t mind it. It’s not a big thing. We have to do our job.”


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Amazing drone photos of Villa's new £14m Bodymoor Heath academy

It 's the spanking-new 61-acre site that 's aimed at catapulting Aston Villa back amongst the big boys in the years to come .
Villa 's all-new £14million academy building at Bodymoor Heath has finally been completed after an extensive two-year project .
Villa , of course , banked £14.5million in compensation with HS2 due to slice through its former set of academy pitches off Bodymoor Heath Road .
The club has used every penny of compensation to create a state-of-the-art academy complex in a bid to attract and train the stars of the future .
This week , Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Louie Barry and Kaine Kesler - have all signed professional contracts with the club keen to develop their own stars in the same ilk as captain Jack Grealish .
The new academy building , which officially opened last year , has been the hub for Villa 's youth teams and women 's sides .
The club had a new 500-seater stand and match pitch built just yards from the main building , watch the amazing drone footage at the top of this article .
As well as the stadium , the site has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gated Astroturf pitch .
There 's also a fully synthetic 100m athletics sprint track , pitch floodlighting and player monitoring systems .
In the academy building , facilities within the club house include offices for staff members and trainers , changing rooms with showers , toilets , a fully-fitted catering canteen , server room , gym and viewing balcony overlooking the training pitches .
There 's 100 car parking spaces and an overfill car park opposite .
`` Our well thought out and sympathetic approach to this scheme has complimented a world-class facility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highly regarded for many years to come , '' explained a spokesman for Leamington Spa-based building contractor O'Brien .
`` It is regarded as one of the finest facilities in the world for upcoming and budding future football stars . ''
O'Brien , the firm behind the big build , have also worked on projects at Jaguar Land Rover , the Ricoh Arena and Wolverhampton 's New Cross Hospital .
In exclusive , aerial photographs of the academy at Bodymoor Heath photos show the incredible transformation of the former sand and gravel quarry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ base - into a super-new centre of excellence .
Speaking in February , chief executive Christian Purslow said of Villa 's academy : `` We have an entirely new , quite magnificent academy at Bodymoor Heath that was required on the basis that HS2 would be passing through a corner of our existing facility .
`` There have been profound changes in the way that we are going about managing our academy .
As in all areas that we are trying to develop in this football club , I passionately believe that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right people in charge of those key functional areas .
`` Many years ago it was a wonderful asset but , in recent times , it hasn ’ t produced anywhere near enough top players .
`` So we signed a gentleman called Mark Harrison who had been at West Brom for many years and West Brom have enjoyed an extremely successful youth development over that period , often at our expense .
`` We had applicants from people at some of the very biggest clubs in England for this job because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its unique geographic position and rich history , should be able to dominate youth football from north London to Manchester .
Check out the incredible start-to-finish gallery , below : '' To bring someone in with no Midlands familiarity would have been a mistake so it ’ s no coincidence that Mark Harrison got the job , unanimously backed by my board and Dean .
`` He has been the most brilliant hire .
He ’ s setting about transforming the management structures of the academy .
The under-23 team sits under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16 , 17 and 18-year-olds , then I will know it ’ s working .
`` And that will take years , not months .
We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old , nine-year-old , 10-year-old , 11-year-old , 12-year-old , 14 , 16 , one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16 .
I want that player .
`` We have one right now , probably the best 16-year-old in England , Carney ( Chukwuemeka ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ starting for the U23s .
That ’ s what you want with your 16-year-olds .
Not people who are not quite breaking into the first team , but staying around on contracts because it isn ’ t quite happening .
`` I think we ’ re agreeing , it ’ s the single most important of our overall strategy .
Nassef and Wes ask me about this more than any other subject because in the very long run , for this club to be truly sustainable is to have its own players coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most important part .
`` The signing of Louie Barry from Barcelona was a marquee development to signal to the rest of the marketplace that we ’ re back in business .
`` We wanted to signal to 14 , 15 and 16-year-olds and their parents that Aston Villa is deadly serious about youth football .
So we take the only British 16-year-old to ever be transferred to Spain .
It was a statement of intent . ''

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It's the spanking-new 61-acre site that's aimed at catapulting Aston Villa back amongst the big boys in the years to come.
Villa's all-new £14million academy building at Bodymoor Heath has finally been completed after an extensive two-year project.
Villa, of course, banked £14.5million in compensation with HS2 due to slice through its former set of academy pitches off Bodymoor Heath Road.
The club has used every penny of compensation to create a state-of-the-art academy complex in a bid to attract and train the stars of the future.
This week, Villa announced seven of their under-18s - including Louie Barry and Kaine Kesler - have all signed professional contracts with the club keen to develop their own stars in the same ilk as captain Jack Grealish.
(Image: O'Brien Contractors Limited)
The new academy building, which officially opened last year, has been the hub for Villa's youth teams and women's sides. The club had a new 500-seater stand and match pitch built just yards from the main building, watch the amazing drone footage at the top of this article .
As well as the stadium, the site has five pristine grass pitches and a giant gated Astroturf pitch. There's also a fully synthetic 100m athletics sprint track, pitch floodlighting and player monitoring systems.
In the academy building, facilities within the club house include offices for staff members and trainers, changing rooms with showers, toilets, a fully-fitted catering canteen, server room, gym and viewing balcony overlooking the training pitches. There's 100 car parking spaces and an overfill car park opposite.
"Our well thought out and sympathetic approach to this scheme has complimented a world-class facility and ensured that the Academy will stay highly regarded for many years to come," explained a spokesman for Leamington Spa-based building contractor O'Brien.
"It is regarded as one of the finest facilities in the world for upcoming and budding future football stars."
O'Brien, the firm behind the big build, have also worked on projects at Jaguar Land Rover, the Ricoh Arena and Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital.
In exclusive, aerial photographs of the academy at Bodymoor Heath photos show the incredible transformation of the former sand and gravel quarry - just up from the first-team training base - into a super-new centre of excellence.
Speaking in February, chief executive Christian Purslow said of Villa's academy : "We have an entirely new, quite magnificent academy at Bodymoor Heath that was required on the basis that HS2 would be passing through a corner of our existing facility.
"There have been profound changes in the way that we are going about managing our academy. As in all areas that we are trying to develop in this football club, I passionately believe that it begins with leadership and leadership is putting the right people in charge of those key functional areas.
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
"Many years ago it was a wonderful asset but, in recent times, it hasn’t produced anywhere near enough top players.
"So we signed a gentleman called Mark Harrison who had been at West Brom for many years and West Brom have enjoyed an extremely successful youth development over that period, often at our expense.
"We had applicants from people at some of the very biggest clubs in England for this job because everyone gets that Aston Villa, with its unique geographic position and rich history, should be able to dominate youth football from north London to Manchester.
Check out the incredible start-to-finish gallery, below:
"To bring someone in with no Midlands familiarity would have been a mistake so it’s no coincidence that Mark Harrison got the job, unanimously backed by my board and Dean.
"He has been the most brilliant hire. He’s setting about transforming the management structures of the academy. The under-23 team sits under the academy and the ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16, 17 and 18-year-olds, then I will know it’s working.
"And that will take years, not months. We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, 14, 16, one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16. I want that player.
"We have one right now, probably the best 16-year-old in England, Carney (Chukwuemeka). Absolutely no debate, he’s starting for the U23s. That’s what you want with your 16-year-olds. Not people who are not quite breaking into the first team, but staying around on contracts because it isn’t quite happening.
"I think we’re agreeing, it’s the single most important of our overall strategy. Nassef and Wes ask me about this more than any other subject because in the very long run, for this club to be truly sustainable is to have its own players coming through the system. I consider that the most important part.
"The signing of Louie Barry from Barcelona was a marquee development to signal to the rest of the marketplace that we’re back in business.
"We wanted to signal to 14, 15 and 16-year-olds and their parents that Aston Villa is deadly serious about youth football. So we take the only British 16-year-old to ever be transferred to Spain. It was a statement of intent."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Aston Villa news LIVE - Liverpool team news and Dean Smith latest

Dean Smith is planning to pull off a Mission Impossible of his own at Anfield on Sunday , but said : `` Unfortunately we have n't got Tom Cruise with us . ''
The head coach has since revealed his Aston Villa players `` feel stung '' by recent criticism with the club on a run of eight games without a win .
`` I 've got 11 players and I 've seen a desire in their eyes , '' he said .
They feel stung by criticism , you are going to get criticism when you 're in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is to prove people wrong . ''
Villa , currently 18th in the table , have picked up just two points from a possible 12 since the Premier League restarted .
Smith 's side go to champions Liverpool on Sunday before hosting Manchester United and Crystal Palace within the space of another frantic week .
`` This is a six-team battle , '' he added .
`` There ’ s only been two teams in the bottom six who have won a game and both of them have been in the last minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vs Chelsea .
We ’ re all battling for points . ''
Stay with us throughout the day for all the latest Villa news .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, Ashley Preece)

Dean Smith is planning to pull off a Mission Impossible of his own at Anfield on Sunday, but said: "Unfortunately we haven't got Tom Cruise with us."
The head coach has since revealed his Aston Villa players "feel stung" by recent criticism with the club on a run of eight games without a win.
"I've got 11 players and I've seen a desire in their eyes," he said. They feel stung by criticism, you are going to get criticism when you're in a position we're in. Their job is to prove people wrong."
Villa, currently 18th in the table, have picked up just two points from a possible 12 since the Premier League restarted.
Smith's side go to champions Liverpool on Sunday before hosting Manchester United and Crystal Palace within the space of another frantic week.
"This is a six-team battle," he added. "There’s only been two teams in the bottom six who have won a game and both of them have been in the last minute with Brighton vs Arsenal and West Ham vs Chelsea. We’re all battling for points."
Stay with us throughout the day for all the latest Villa news.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Queue to support pub forced to throw 20k pints in lockdown

Loyal customers have flocked to support a city centre boozer after it revealed a loss of 20,000 pints during its lockdown closure .
Around 20 regulars queued outside The Wellington pub , affectionately known as The Welly , ahead of the 10am re-opening on 'Super Saturday ' , July 4 .
The city centre 's No 1 real ale pub welcomed back over a dozen customers as soon as it opened the doors for the first time since the UK shutdown on March 23 .
As the boozer returned with 13 different ales instead of the usual 17 , licensee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great to be back . ''
It has implemented new safety measures including table service for the customers who spaced themselves out across the pub as soon as they entered .
The show of support came after licensee Nige Baker revealed a month 's supply of booze was rendered unusable as the coronavirus pandemic shut pubs across the country .
`` We are having to pour away more than 20,000 pints , which is probably more than any other pub in the country I know , '' he told BirminghamLive the day before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PPE , but not insisting on it .
Even though I 'm not as young as I used to be I 'm in good health and hopefully not too vulnerable , but life is a risk . ''
Elsewhere in the city centre , The Briar Rose on Bennetts Hill saw three customers wait for an hour outside the premises to get their hands on the first pint .
Ben Clark and his two pals , Curtis and Connor , were waiting for the popular JD Wetherspoon pub to welcome back punters from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Geordie trio , covered in dust following a night shift working away on a building site in the city , were 'watching ' the pubs since 4am , eager to get their hands on the first pint since lockdown .
The Newcastle lads spoke to our reporter Graham Young as they waited for a 'well-deserved ' San Miguel and English breakfast after their shift .
Mr Clark told BirminghamLive : `` We 've just finished night shifts , I 've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning , when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast .
`` I 'm a big fan of Wetherspoon , definitely , I 've been waiting for it since the first day of lockdown . ''

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

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Loyal customers have flocked to support a city centre boozer after it revealed a loss of 20,000 pints during its lockdown closure.
Around 20 regulars queued outside The Wellington pub, affectionately known as The Welly, ahead of the 10am re-opening on 'Super Saturday ', July 4.
The city centre's No 1 real ale pub welcomed back over a dozen customers as soon as it opened the doors for the first time since the UK shutdown on March 23.
As the boozer returned with 13 different ales instead of the usual 17, licensee Nige Barker said: "It's great to be back."
(Image: Graham Young)
It has implemented new safety measures including table service for the customers who spaced themselves out across the pub as soon as they entered.
The show of support came after licensee Nige Baker revealed a month's supply of booze was rendered unusable as the coronavirus pandemic shut pubs across the country.
"We are having to pour away more than 20,000 pints, which is probably more than any other pub in the country I know," he told BirminghamLive the day before reopening.
"We will be providing PPE, but not insisting on it. Even though I'm not as young as I used to be I'm in good health and hopefully not too vulnerable, but life is a risk."
Elsewhere in the city centre, The Briar Rose on Bennetts Hill saw three customers wait for an hour outside the premises to get their hands on the first pint.
Ben Clark and his two pals, Curtis and Connor, were waiting for the popular JD Wetherspoon pub to welcome back punters from 7am after booking a table in advance.
The Geordie trio, covered in dust following a night shift working away on a building site in the city, were 'watching' the pubs since 4am, eager to get their hands on the first pint since lockdown.
The Newcastle lads spoke to our reporter Graham Young as they waited for a 'well-deserved' San Miguel and English breakfast after their shift.
Mr Clark told BirminghamLive: "We've just finished night shifts, I've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning, when we came and reserved our tables ready for the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast.
"I'm a big fan of Wetherspoon, definitely, I've been waiting for it since the first day of lockdown."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Villa boss Dean Smith tipped to make double change at Liverpool

Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet are both being tipped to return to the Aston Villa starting line-up as Dean Smith prepares to shuffle his pack for the trip to Liverpool on Sunday .
The Lions , desperate to pick up their first win since the restart after being left frustrated in their first four matches , have the rather daunting challenge of amending that form at the home of the newly crowned top flight champions .
And former Villa defender Alan Hutton can see Smith lining his side up rather differently to the one that tackled - but were beaten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time out .
Smith opted for both forwards Keinan Davis and Mbwana Samatta in the defeat to the Wanderers , and a three man defence ; on Merseyside , Hutton can one of the two strikers starting the game and the return to his favoured position of Jack Grealish .
“ It ’ s what he [ Smith ] does up front and I can ’ t see him playing both , ” Hutton told Football Insider .
“ I think that was a tactic to go against Wolves with three at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a different kettle of fish at the weekend so I think one of them , I presume Samatta , will go out and Davis will play and then he might go for the two wingers .
“ I ’ ve got a feeling he might go with El Ghazi and Trezeguet and then try and put Jack in the midfield , if he can go into the number 10 role to help create .
”

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Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet are both being tipped to return to the Aston Villa starting line-up as Dean Smith prepares to shuffle his pack for the trip to Liverpool on Sunday.
The Lions, desperate to pick up their first win since the restart after being left frustrated in their first four matches, have the rather daunting challenge of amending that form at the home of the newly crowned top flight champions.
And former Villa defender Alan Hutton can see Smith lining his side up rather differently to the one that tackled - but were beaten by - Wolves at Villa Park last time out.
Smith opted for both forwards Keinan Davis and Mbwana Samatta in the defeat to the Wanderers, and a three man defence; on Merseyside, Hutton can one of the two strikers starting the game and the return to his favoured position of Jack Grealish.
“It’s what he [Smith] does up front and I can’t see him playing both,” Hutton told Football Insider.
“I think that was a tactic to go against Wolves with three at the back and it’s going to be a different kettle of fish at the weekend so I think one of them, I presume Samatta, will go out and Davis will play and then he might go for the two wingers.
“I’ve got a feeling he might go with El Ghazi and Trezeguet and then try and put Jack in the midfield, if he can go into the number 10 role to help create.”


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Striker tipped to complete Wolves loan when transfer window reopens

Renat Dadashov has been tipped to complete a loan move from Wolves across the West Midlands to newly promoted Coventry City .
The Azerbaijan international , who came close to completing a loan move to Birmingham City in the January transfer window , is reportedly wanted by Blues ’ St Andrew ’ s tenants Coventry after their promotion back to the Championship was confirmed once League One was decided on a points per game basis .
That means that boss Mark Robins has extra time to prepare for the Sky Blues ’ return to the second tier , and he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brazilian midfielder Gustavo Hamer from Dutch side PEC Zwolle for around £1.5m .
Dadashov , according to reports , is also on the wanted list .
The 21-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance under Nuno after signing for the club from Portuguese side Estoril , though he spent the first half of the season on loan at Pacos de Ferreira .
Wolves are likely to be open to permitting Dadashov another loan move once the transfer window reopens ; he is well down the pecking order in Nuno ’ s current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Diogo Jota and Pedro Neto .

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Renat Dadashov has been tipped to complete a loan move from Wolves across the West Midlands to newly promoted Coventry City.
The Azerbaijan international, who came close to completing a loan move to Birmingham City in the January transfer window, is reportedly wanted by Blues’ St Andrew’s tenants Coventry after their promotion back to the Championship was confirmed once League One was decided on a points per game basis.
That means that boss Mark Robins has extra time to prepare for the Sky Blues’ return to the second tier, and he’s already moved to snap up Brazilian midfielder Gustavo Hamer from Dutch side PEC Zwolle for around £1.5m.
Dadashov, according to reports, is also on the wanted list.
The 21-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance under Nuno after signing for the club from Portuguese side Estoril, though he spent the first half of the season on loan at Pacos de Ferreira.
Wolves are likely to be open to permitting Dadashov another loan move once the transfer window reopens; he is well down the pecking order in Nuno’s current striker department, behind Raul Jimenez, Diogo Jota and Pedro Neto.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--City centre sees quiet start to 'Super Saturday'

Many of the Black Country 's pubs , restaurants and hairdressers are finally reopening today on what has been dubbed 'Super Saturday ' .
As lockdown restrictions are eased further , people will be able to enjoy a drink in their favourite bar or a much-needed trip to the salon .
While some thirsty punters queued patiently to be the first to grab a pint in Birmingham , it was a different story in Wolverhampton .
As can be seen in the video above , the city centre was eerily quiet this morning .
The Billy Wright is one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Like many venues , it will be operating a table service to avoid people congregating at the bar .
Tables and chairs have been arranged by staff and hand sanitiser will be available throughout the venue .
Staff will also request each customer 's contact information during the course of their visit .
Chief Superintendent Steve Graham , from West Midlands Police , has urged people to stay safe and `` take responsibility for their actions '' if they are venturing to the pub this weekend .
The police commander said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result of the lockdown measures and it ’ s great to see them being able to reopen this weekend .
`` However we need people to take personal responsibility for their actions and behaviour - observe the social distancing measures that will be in place and follow instructions laid out by venues so they are able to operate effectively and stay open .
`` Throughout the pandemic we have continued to patrol our towns and city centres and obviously this weekend will continue to put the appropriate resources in place .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in venues , this is the responsibility of licensees but clearly we will be on hand should the need arise . ''

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Many of the Black Country's pubs, restaurants and hairdressers are finally reopening today on what has been dubbed 'Super Saturday'.
As lockdown restrictions are eased further, people will be able to enjoy a drink in their favourite bar or a much-needed trip to the salon.
While some thirsty punters queued patiently to be the first to grab a pint in Birmingham, it was a different story in Wolverhampton.
As can be seen in the video above, the city centre was eerily quiet this morning.
The Billy Wright is one of many pubs welcoming back customers from 10am. Like many venues, it will be operating a table service to avoid people congregating at the bar.
Tables and chairs have been arranged by staff and hand sanitiser will be available throughout the venue. Staff will also request each customer's contact information during the course of their visit.
Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, from West Midlands Police, has urged people to stay safe and "take responsibility for their actions" if they are venturing to the pub this weekend.
The police commander said: "Businesses have suffered financially as a result of the lockdown measures and it’s great to see them being able to reopen this weekend.
"However we need people to take personal responsibility for their actions and behaviour - observe the social distancing measures that will be in place and follow instructions laid out by venues so they are able to operate effectively and stay open.
"Throughout the pandemic we have continued to patrol our towns and city centres and obviously this weekend will continue to put the appropriate resources in place.
"We will not be ‘policing’ measures in venues, this is the responsibility of licensees but clearly we will be on hand should the need arise."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--These are the Nando's restaurants reopening for eat in

Nando 's has announced it is fully reopening some of its UK restaurants including Birmingham Bullring .
Brummies missing the dining in experience to enjoy PERi-PERi chicken will not have long to wait .
The Bullring branch will open on Wednesday , July 8 - four days after 'Super Saturday ' -when all bars and restaurants were given the okay to open - with Covid 19 safety measures in place .
Posting on Facebook , the famous chicken chain said : `` We ’ re starting to open our doors for Eat-in at 10 Nando ’ s restaurants across England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure everything is as safe as possible when you visit , we ’ ve made a few changes to our service style . ''
The ten restaurants opening their doors for eat in service includes Birmingham Bullring but not the New Street branch .
The other nine restaurants are : So what are the new changes ?
The Nando 's website states : `` To make sure it ’ s as safe as possible for you to enjoy PERi-PERi with us , we ’ ve made some changes to our style in line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Diners will need to scan the QR code they will see as soon as they arrive , and the restaurant will text when a table is ready - so there will be no more queuing outside .
You will have to order and pay for your PERi-PERi fix from your table .
This will be done by scanning the QR code using the camera on your phone .
Customers can still collect Chilli Points using your Nando ’ s Card .
BUT you can ’ t redeem Rewards just yet .
The chain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it '' .
Staying away from others once seated Nando 's says : `` We ’ ve socially distanced our tables and will be operating at a reduced capacity .
With social distancing taking place in our kitchens , we ’ ve got a limited menu right now .
Most of the Nando ’ s meals you know and love are still there though ! ''
No more going off to collect your sauces and cutlery The Nando 's staff will now bring everything you need to enjoy your meal straight to your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your table , including sauces , cutlery and napkins .
Just say the word.
`` There will be sanitiser stations around the restaurant .
The chain of course also asks that anyone displaying coronavirus symptoms stays at home .
The following Nando 's are currentlyopen for delivery

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Nando's has announced it is fully reopening some of its UK restaurants including Birmingham Bullring.
Brummies missing the dining in experience to enjoy PERi-PERi chicken will not have long to wait.
The Bullring branch will open on Wednesday, July 8 - four days after 'Super Saturday' -when all bars and restaurants were given the okay to open - with Covid 19 safety measures in place.
Posting on Facebook, the famous chicken chain said: "We’re starting to open our doors for Eat-in at 10 Nando’s restaurants across England from July 8.
"To make sure everything is as safe as possible when you visit, we’ve made a few changes to our service style."
The ten restaurants opening their doors for eat in service includes Birmingham Bullring but not the New Street branch.
The other nine restaurants are:
Beckton
Bluewater - Winter Garden
Bolton
Bromley - St Mark's Square
Leeds - J27
Liverpool ONE
Manchester - Trafford Centre
Park Royal
Westfield London
So what are the new changes?
The Nando's website states: "To make sure it’s as safe as possible for you to enjoy PERi-PERi with us, we’ve made some changes to our style in line with government guidelines and social distancing. "
Queuing
Diners will need to scan the QR code they will see as soon as they arrive, and the restaurant will text when a table is ready - so there will be no more queuing outside.
Card payments only
You will have to order and pay for your PERi-PERi fix from your table. This will be done by scanning the QR code using the camera on your phone.
Customers can still collect Chilli Points using your Nando’s Card.
BUT you can’t redeem Rewards just yet. The chain say "we’re working on it".
Staying away from others once seated
Nando's says: " We’ve socially distanced our tables and will be operating at a reduced capacity. With social distancing taking place in our kitchens, we’ve got a limited menu right now. Most of the Nando’s meals you know and love are still there though!"
No more going off to collect your sauces and cutlery
The Nando's staff will now bring everything you need to enjoy your meal straight to your table
"We’ll bring everything to your table, including sauces, cutlery and napkins. Just say the word. "
Keep it clean
There will be sanitiser stations around the restaurant.
The chain of course also asks that anyone displaying coronavirus symptoms stays at home.
The following Nando's are currentlyopen for delivery
Birmingham - Bullring
Birmingham - Mailbox
Birmingham - New Street
Birmingham - Perry Barr
Birmingham - Star City


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Dean Smith mentions Tom Cruise with Aston Villa braced for Liverpool backlash

There will be no dangling from a harness inside a vault , nor will Dean Smith be jumping from an exploding train .
Instead , the Great Barr chief will be directing his own Mission Impossible - even if it 's without film star Tom Cruise .
Villa head to Anfield tomorrow looking to cause one of the shocks of the season as Smith attempts to lift his side out of the dreaded drop-zone .
`` Unfortunately we have n't got Tom Cruise with us , '' Smith quipped , when asked if beating champions Liverpool - a wounded animal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impossible mission .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' But I 've got 11 players and I 've seen a desire in their eyes .
They feel stung by criticism , you are going to get criticism when you 're in a position we 're in .
Their job is to prove people wrong .
`` We 'll take heart from that performance ( vs Liverpool in November ) , we took them until the last three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't hold on .
`` There were silly mistakes for their goals but we more than matched them .
We made sure we were n't outworked on the day and we have to make sure we 're not outworked on Sunday .
`` We have to be mindful the quality they have , they are the Premier League and European champions .
We have to be at our best .
`` It ’ s a good time to play them when they ’ ve already won the league , certainly .
Having no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well .
I think we ’ re starting to get used to that now .
They ’ re an exceptional team . ''
Smith watched relegation rivals Bournemouth get hammered against Newcastle in midweek , before West Ham edged away from the pack with a victory of Chelsea .
Villa climbed above the Cherries on goals scored yet still remain a point off Watford in 17th .
Bournemouth , meanwhile , play Manchester United today ( 3pm ) with Watford at Chelsea this evening ( 8pm ) .
Tomorrow , West Ham go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's daunting trip to Anfield ( 4.30pm ) .
On the relegation picture with six games to go , Smith said : `` You saw Brighton win in the last minute against Arsenal and West Ham win in the last minute against Chelsea .
It did n't escape me that West Ham 's stats were pretty similar to ours against Chelsea , but they managed to stick the ball in the net a couple of times .
We can take great heart from that , knowing you can go and beat these big @ @ @

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There will be no dangling from a harness inside a vault, nor will Dean Smith be jumping from an exploding train.
Instead, the Great Barr chief will be directing his own Mission Impossible - even if it's without film star Tom Cruise.
Villa head to Anfield tomorrow looking to cause one of the shocks of the season as Smith attempts to lift his side out of the dreaded drop-zone.
"Unfortunately we haven't got Tom Cruise with us," Smith quipped, when asked if beating champions Liverpool - a wounded animal after their City defeat - was an impossible mission.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"But I've got 11 players and I've seen a desire in their eyes. They feel stung by criticism, you are going to get criticism when you're in a position we're in. Their job is to prove people wrong.
"We'll take heart from that performance (vs Liverpool in November), we took them until the last three minutes and we're disappointed we didn't hold on.
"There were silly mistakes for their goals but we more than matched them. We made sure we weren't outworked on the day and we have to make sure we're not outworked on Sunday.
"We have to be mindful the quality they have, they are the Premier League and European champions. We have to be at our best.
"It’s a good time to play them when they’ve already won the league, certainly. Having no fans in the stadium will help as well. I think we’re starting to get used to that now. They’re an exceptional team."
Smith watched relegation rivals Bournemouth get hammered against Newcastle in midweek, before West Ham edged away from the pack with a victory of Chelsea.
Villa climbed above the Cherries on goals scored yet still remain a point off Watford in 17th. Bournemouth, meanwhile, play Manchester United today (3pm) with Watford at Chelsea this evening (8pm).
Tomorrow, West Ham go to Newcastle (2.15pm) before Villa's daunting trip to Anfield (4.30pm).
On the relegation picture with six games to go, Smith said: "You saw Brighton win in the last minute against Arsenal and West Ham win in the last minute against Chelsea. It didn't escape me that West Ham's stats were pretty similar to ours against Chelsea, but they managed to stick the ball in the net a couple of times. We can take great heart from that, knowing you can go and beat these big teams."


birminghammail--2020-07-04--Klopp facing Liverpool problem as Aston Villa visit Anfield

Liverpool defender Joel Matip will miss the rest of the season - including this weekend ’ s clash with Aston Villa - because of a foot injury sustained in the Merseyside derby .
Cameroon international Matip has endured a frustrating campaign , in what has been a hugely successful one for the Reds as a collective after they secured their first Premier League title .
Considered a first choice centre half partner of Virgil Van Dijk when fit , Matip has made just 13 appearances in all competitions this term after picking up a knee injury in October which kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
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You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Like James Milner , he then limped off in the goalless draw at Goodison Park in Liverpool ’ s first game back after the restart .
He told the club ’ s official website : “ This season I will be not back on the pitch but for next season , I hope I ’ m going to be quite early a direct help for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without fellow centre half Dejan Lovren too - he missed the heavy defeat at Manchester City with a slight knock .
That could mean that Joe Gomez is the only senior option to partner Van Dijk when they welcome Villa to Anfield on Sunday ; Gomez was substituted at half time at the Etihad Stadium after picking up a booking in the first half .
Milner , too , is expected to be ready to face both of his former clubs this week , while Xherdan Shaqiri is back in training , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limited since his move to the club .
Villa finally have had a full week to prepare for a game , after a gruelling four matches in eleven days since raising the Premier League curtain on the run-in earlier this month .
In that time they ’ ve picked up two points from a possible 12 , meaning a result on Merseyside , however daunting a task that may appear on paper , would be particularly useful in their bid to avoid relegation .

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Liverpool defender Joel Matip will miss the rest of the season - including this weekend’s clash with Aston Villa - because of a foot injury sustained in the Merseyside derby.
Cameroon international Matip has endured a frustrating campaign, in what has been a hugely successful one for the Reds as a collective after they secured their first Premier League title.
Considered a first choice centre half partner of Virgil Van Dijk when fit, Matip has made just 13 appearances in all competitions this term after picking up a knee injury in October which kept him out until the new year.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Like James Milner, he then limped off in the goalless draw at Goodison Park in Liverpool’s first game back after the restart.
He told the club’s official website: “This season I will be not back on the pitch but for next season, I hope I’m going to be quite early a direct help for the team.”
Jurgen Klopp could be without fellow centre half Dejan Lovren too - he missed the heavy defeat at Manchester City with a slight knock.
That could mean that Joe Gomez is the only senior option to partner Van Dijk when they welcome Villa to Anfield on Sunday; Gomez was substituted at half time at the Etihad Stadium after picking up a booking in the first half.
Milner, too, is expected to be ready to face both of his former clubs this week, while Xherdan Shaqiri is back in training, although the winger’s involvement has been limited since his move to the club.
Villa finally have had a full week to prepare for a game, after a gruelling four matches in eleven days since raising the Premier League curtain on the run-in earlier this month.
In that time they’ve picked up two points from a possible 12, meaning a result on Merseyside, however daunting a task that may appear on paper, would be particularly useful in their bid to avoid relegation.


birminghammail--2020-07-04--The first Super Saturday customers queuing from 7am for first post-lockdown pint

These were the scenes as the first post-lockdown customers queued outside a city centre pub - an hour ahead of the reopening .
Ben Clark and his two pals , Curtis and Connor , were waiting for The Briar Rose in the heart of Birmingham to welcome back punters from 7am on 'Super Saturday ' , July 4 .
The Geordie trio , covered in dust following a night shift working away on a building site in the city , were 'watching ' the pubs since 4am , eager to get their hands on the first pint since lockdown .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Graham Young as they waited for a 'well-deserved ' San Miguel and English breakfast from the Bennetts Hill boozer .
Mr Clark said : `` We 've just finished night shifts , I 've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning , when we came and reserved our tables ready for the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast .
`` I 'm a big fan of Wetherspoon , definitely , I 've been waiting for it since the first day of lockdown . ''
Standing on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the workers can be seen saluting and putting their thumbs up as the doors fly back open in the video above .
Three more then joined the queue as a staff member for the Briar Rose opened both doors and welcomed in the long-awaited custom .
The pub is one of the first to open in the city centre - along with the JD Wetherspoon The Square Peg over on Corporation Street .
The giant JD Wetherspoon previously revealed it will be slashing capacity to less than a quarter as it reopens today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can hold the incredible number of 930 people at once in normal times .
But with one metre social distancing now essential , its regular capacity for the foreseeable future is going to be cut to 250 .
But in order to enable staff to get used to their new ways of working , that number has been trimmed even further to just 200 as the weekend began at 8am .

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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These were the scenes as the first post-lockdown customers queued outside a city centre pub - an hour ahead of the reopening.
Ben Clark and his two pals, Curtis and Connor, were waiting for The Briar Rose in the heart of Birmingham to welcome back punters from 7am on 'Super Saturday', July 4.
The Geordie trio, covered in dust following a night shift working away on a building site in the city, were 'watching' the pubs since 4am, eager to get their hands on the first pint since lockdown.
The Newcastle lads spoke to our reporter Graham Young as they waited for a 'well-deserved' San Miguel and English breakfast from the Bennetts Hill boozer.
Mr Clark said: "We've just finished night shifts, I've been watching the pubs since 4am this morning, when we came and reserved our tables ready for the pub opening ready for a pint of San Miguel and a breakfast.
"I'm a big fan of Wetherspoon, definitely, I've been waiting for it since the first day of lockdown."
Standing on socially-distanced markers dotted on the pavement, the workers can be seen saluting and putting their thumbs up as the doors fly back open in the video above.
Three more then joined the queue as a staff member for the Briar Rose opened both doors and welcomed in the long-awaited custom.
The pub is one of the first to open in the city centre - along with the JD Wetherspoon The Square Peg over on Corporation Street.
The giant JD Wetherspoon previously revealed it will be slashing capacity to less than a quarter as it reopens today.
The boozer is so long it can hold the incredible number of 930 people at once in normal times.
But with one metre social distancing now essential, its regular capacity for the foreseeable future is going to be cut to 250.
But in order to enable staff to get used to their new ways of working, that number has been trimmed even further to just 200 as the weekend began at 8am.