birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Just didn't look the same' - Pundit's big injury fear for Aston Villa ahead of Leicester City clash

Former Aston Villa striker Darren Bent fears for the fitness of Jack Grealish .
The captain started the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday but , by his own exceptional standards , he put in a subdued performance in midfield .
Grealish is integral to Villa 's hopes of surviving relegation this season , with the first of 11 crucial matches coming up when Dean Smith 's side travel to Leicester City on Monday night ( 8pm ) .
He picked up a calf injury earlier this season , missing two Premier League games - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but has played every minute of Villa 's season since .
Villa head coach Smith said after the Wembley clash that Grealish , who slumped to the floor at full-time , had cramped up and there was no injury .
“ Jack looked like he was injured , it was probably his quietest game ever , '' he told Football Insider .
“ It was one of the most important games for him ever and it was probably his most quiet game .
`` He looked like he was carrying an injury , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same Jack we ’ ve seen before .
“ He just didn ’ t look the same .
”

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Former Aston Villa striker Darren Bent fears for the fitness of Jack Grealish.
The captain started the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday but, by his own exceptional standards, he put in a subdued performance in midfield.
Grealish is integral to Villa's hopes of surviving relegation this season, with the first of 11 crucial matches coming up when Dean Smith 's side travel to Leicester City on Monday night (8pm).
He picked up a calf injury earlier this season, missing two Premier League games - defeats to Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers - but has played every minute of Villa's season since.
Villa head coach Smith said after the Wembley clash that Grealish, who slumped to the floor at full-time, had cramped up and there was no injury.
But Bent thinks differently.
“Jack looked like he was injured, it was probably his quietest game ever," he told Football Insider .
“It was one of the most important games for him ever and it was probably his most quiet game.
"He looked like he was carrying an injury, he didn’t look like the same Jack we’ve seen before.
“He just didn’t look the same.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Naresh Kumar named as man killed in horrific Dudley Road crash

A man killed in an early-morning crash has been named as 50-year-old Naresh Kumar .
He was fatally injured when he collided with a Toyota Yaris in Dudley Road , Blakenhall , just after midnight on March 3 .
A 42-year-old man arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving was released pending further investigation .
West Midlands Police appealed for witnesses and drivers with dashcam footage to come forward .
Det Con Chris Ridge , from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit , said : “ Our enquiries into the circumstances of this collision are continuing at pace .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what happened and hasn ’ t already spoken to us to contact me or my team as soon as possible .
“ The family of Mr Kumar continue to be supported by specialist officers .
“ If you saw anything or have dashcam footage , please get in touch with us as soon as possible . ''
Information can be given by contacting collision investigators on FL_COLLISION_INVEST @ west-midlands.pnn.police.uk , via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or by calling 101 anytime .
Please quote log 18 of 3 March @

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A man killed in an early-morning crash has been named as 50-year-old Naresh Kumar.
He was fatally injured when he collided with a Toyota Yaris in Dudley Road, Blakenhall , just after midnight on March 3.
Mr Kumar died later.
A 42-year-old man arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving was released pending further investigation.
West Midlands Police appealed for witnesses and drivers with dashcam footage to come forward.
Det Con Chris Ridge, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our enquiries into the circumstances of this collision are continuing at pace.
“I’d ask anyone who saw what happened and hasn’t already spoken to us to contact me or my team as soon as possible.
“The family of Mr Kumar continue to be supported by specialist officers.
“If you saw anything or have dashcam footage, please get in touch with us as soon as possible."
Information can be given by contacting collision investigators on FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk , via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or by calling 101 anytime. Please quote log 18 of 3 March.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Two slashed in knifefight as mass brawl breaks out in Stony Lane, Smethwick

Two men were hurt in a knifefight as a mass brawl broke out on a Midland street .
A 21-year-old was stabbed in the back and was rushed to hospital following the incident in Stony Lane , Smethwick .
Another man , aged 31 , was slashed on his hand with a bladed weapon .
They were hurt when violence erupted on the street just before 7.30pm last night , Friday , March 6 .
The area was cordoned off by police for a number of hours .
No arrests had been made on Saturday morning , March 7 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ offenders .
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` We are investigating after one man was stabbed and another suffered a slash wound to his hand , following a disorder with a group of men on Stony Lane in Smethwick , just before 7.30pm last night , Friday , March 6 .
`` A 21-year-old man was taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his back , though his injury is not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening at this time .
`` Another man , aged 31 , was treated for an injury to his finger . ''
Enquiries continue to trace the offenders and anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or call 101 anytime .
Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote crime reference 20SW/60890H/20 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Oprah Flash)

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Two men were hurt in a knifefight as a mass brawl broke out on a Midland street.
A 21-year-old was stabbed in the back and was rushed to hospital following the incident in Stony Lane , Smethwick.
Another man, aged 31, was slashed on his hand with a bladed weapon.
They were hurt when violence erupted on the street just before 7.30pm last night, Friday, March 6.
The area was cordoned off by police for a number of hours.
No arrests had been made on Saturday morning, March 7. Officers launched a manhunt to find the offenders.
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We are investigating after one man was stabbed and another suffered a slash wound to his hand, following a disorder with a group of men on Stony Lane in Smethwick, just before 7.30pm last night, Friday, March 6.
"A 21-year-old man was taken to hospital with a stab wound to his back, though his injury is not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening at this time.
"Another man, aged 31, was treated for an injury to his finger."
Enquiries continue to trace the offenders and anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.
Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime reference 20SW/60890H/20.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'He'll be pushing me' - Aston Villa injury list in full ahead of Leicester City clash

Aston Villa are back in action when they face Leicester City in the Premier League on Monday night ( 8pm ) .
Following their Carabao Cup exit in the final against Manchester City last week , Dean Smith 's side will readjust their focus to staying in the League .
The trip to City is the first of 11 matches before the season ends , with Villa in 19th place and two points from safety .
And Villa will continue to be without influential midfielder John McGinn - but there is good news on that front .
He is back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in contact sessions just yet as the recovery from a fractured ankle continues .
Dean Smith updated Villa fans on McGinn 's progress at a press conference yesterday with the Chelsea match a week today well in the Scotland midfielder 's sights .
Details : McGinn left the pitch in considerable pain on December 21 and was helped by two of Villa 's medical staff as he hobbled down the touchline .
What Smith said : `` John McGinn is nearer .
`` He trained with us .
`` We 've not had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 's been involved in possession and shape work .
He 's getting to where we want him to be .
`` He 's had a CT Scan today to make sure there 's a full union of the fracture .
He feels really good which is the important thing .
`` He 'll be pushing me for Chelsea , that 's for sure .
Once he gets on that training ground he 'll move quickly and he 's certainly progressing quickly now . ''
Details : After scoring his fifth league goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was ended after a heavy tackle from Burnley defender Ben Mee .
The striker has since been ruled out for the rest of the campaign .
What Smith said : `` Young Wesley , our record signing has come in , awful lot of pressure on his shoulders , made his debut for Brazil this season and was playing really well in the game , scored a good goal and unfortunately for him he is out for the season as well . ''
Details : Steer started in goal due to Tom Heaton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only managed to play eight minutes before he was forced off .
The goalkeeper hurt himself after attempting a save and Orjan Nyland was brought on .
What Smith has said : `` Unfortunately Jed Steer got injured within four minutes of his first game of the season against Wolves – he ’ s out for another couple of months at least . ''
Details : The former Burnley stopper had to come off after landing heavily when trying to stop Chris Wood 's header late on at Turf Moor .
Nyland came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only two senior 'keepers at the club .
What Smith said : `` Tom is a player I wanted to bring in at the start of the season , Premier League player , England goalkeeper , a great character and a leader .
`` He ’ s proven that in the dressing room already , I feel for him and his family because he ’ d been nailed on to go to the Euros in the summer .
Really disappointed for him .
`` I ’ m not sure of the actual extent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are significant knee injuries , so they will go and see the experts .
I won ’ t go into the medical terminology of what they ’ ve done I ’ ve just been told significant knee injury .
`` We ’ ve just spoken and it ’ s out for the season , that ’ s all I need to know to be honest , so I can start planning for the rest of this season . ''

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


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Live updates: Four hurt in three separate stabbings in night of violence across Birmingham and the B

Live updates: Four hurt in three separate stabbings in night of violence across Birmingham and the Black Country

Four people were stabbed in three separate incidents as Birmingham and the Black Country was rocked by a night of senseless knife crime .
A 16-year-old was knifed in the neck outside a row of shops in Nechells on Friday night , March 6 - hours before a man in his 20s was stabbed in Handsworth early on Saturday .
Four people , aged between 22 and 43 , were arrested in connection with the 5.30am attack , but police were still hunting the teen 's attacker .
And part of Stony Lane in Smethwick was cordoned off as two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brawl just before 7.30pm last night , Friday 6 March .
A 21-year-old man was taken to hospital with a stab wound to his back .
Another man , aged 31 , was treated for an injury to his finger BirminghamLive understands the incidents were not being linked by West Midlands Police .
This is a breaking news story .
We will be updating it .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news .
We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go , the Birmingham Live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest news where you live .
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you .
Breaking news , the latest on your football club , the pick of the weeks events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .
Download it on iPhone and Android .

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

Six people were stabbed in five separate incidents as Birmingham and the Black Country was rocked by a weekend of senseless knife crime.
A 16-year-old was knifed in the neck outside a row of shops in Nechells on Friday night, March 6 - hours before a man in his 20s was stabbed in Handsworth early on Saturday, March 7.
Four people, aged between 22 and 43, were arrested in connection with the 5.30am attack, but police were still hunting the teen's attacker.
And part of Stony Lane in Smethwick was cordoned off as two men suffered slash injuries in a mass brawl just before 7.30pm on Friday 6 March.
A 21-year-old man was taken to hospital with a stab wound to his back. Another man, aged 31, was treated for an injury to his finger.
A woman was stabbed by burglars who raided her Stourbridge home at 3.30am on Saturday.
And then a man was shot as he sat in a BMW - before guns were believed to have been fired in Northfield on Saturday evening.
BirminghamLive understands the incidents were not being linked by the force.
This is a breaking news story. We will be updating it.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
If you are on the go, the Birmingham Live app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live.
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the weeks events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you.
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.
Download it on iPhone and Android .


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Stony Lane in Smethwick sealed off by West Midlands Police officers

Police sealed off a residential street in Smethwick following an incident .
Officers were spotted at the scene on Stony @ @ @ @ @ Friday , March 6 .
Residents near the cordoned area reported seeing police and ambulance @ @ @ @ @ .
Police response cars were stationed near a row of terrace houses that had been @ @ @ @ @ up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group @ @ @ @ @ to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
Black Country Live has @ @ @ @ @ further information .

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Police sealed off a residential street in Smethwick following an incident.
Officers were spotted at the scene on Stony Lane at around 8.30pm on Friday, March 6.
Residents near the cordoned area reported seeing police and ambulance crew responding to the incident.
Police response cars were stationed near a row of terrace houses that had been taped off.
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
Black Country Live has contacted West Midlands Police for further information.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Man stabbed in chest and neck in Church Vale, Handsworth

A man was knifed in the chest in a second overnight stabbing , it has been revealed .
The victim , in his 20s , was stabbed in the chest and neck in Church Vale , Handsworth in the early hours of Saturday morning , March 7 .
He was taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening at around 5.30am .
Four men , aged 22 , 27 , 33 and 43 , were arrested and remained in police custody .
Less than ten hours earlier , a 16-year-old boy was stabbed outside a row of shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He also suffered injuries not believed to be life-changing and was taken to hospital .
Police said they were not linking the two attacks - which took place just over three miles apart .
Speaking on the latest stabbing in Handsworth , West Midlands Police said : `` We are investigating after a man in his 20s was stabbed in his chest and neck on Church Vale in Handsworth , Birmingham at around 5.30am this morning ( Saturday 7 March ) .
`` He was taken to hospital , though his injuries are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at this time .
`` Four men , aged 22 , 27 , 33 and 43 , have been arrested in connection with the stabbing and all remain in police custody .
`` Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or call 101 anytime .
`` Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote log 631 of 7 March . ''

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A man was knifed in the chest in a second overnight stabbing, it has been revealed.
The victim, in his 20s, was stabbed in the chest and neck in Church Vale, Handsworth in the early hours of Saturday morning, March 7.
He was taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening at around 5.30am.
Three men, aged 22, 33 and 43 and a 27-year-old woman were arrested and remained in police custody.
Less than ten hours earlier, a 16-year-old boy was stabbed outside a row of shops in Duddeston Mill Road, Nechells.
He also suffered injuries not believed to be life-changing and was taken to hospital.
Police said they were not linking the two attacks - which took place just over three miles apart.
Speaking on the latest stabbing in Handsworth, West Midlands Police said: "We are investigating after a man in his 20s was stabbed in his chest and neck on Church Vale in Handsworth, Birmingham at around 5.30am this morning (Saturday 7 March).
"He was taken to hospital, though his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing at this time.
"Three men, aged 22, 33 and 43 and a 27-year-old woman have been arrested in connection with the stabbing and all remain in police custody.
"Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.
"Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote log 631 of 7 March."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Meghan Markle sparks fury at Palace as she steals limelight from 'upset' Camilla

Meghan Markle has sparked fury at Buckingham Palace by stealing the limelight from a royal campaign planned by Camilla , Duchess of Cornwall .
Meghan broke protocol by releasing a series of pictures of her own private visit to the National Theatre on the same day Camilla launched a campaign against domestic violence .
She insisted the theatre pictures appeared today - as the Duchess of Cornwall gave her long-planned speech .
Her decision to upstage the Duchess of Cornwall ’ s address has left Camilla `` very upset '' , insiders told the Mirror Prince Charles ’ wife had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the 10th anniversary of the Women of the World Festival in London - for nearly a year .
But Meghan broke a pledge not to overshadow Camilla 's campaign by demanding the pictures of her National Theatre visit were published the same day .
Meghan 's theatre pictures were taken by handpicked photographer Chris Allerton , who snapped the 38-year-old ’ s wedding to Prince Harry , 35 , and their son Archie ’ s christening .
The Duchess of Sussex 's trip to the National Theatre – where she is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lunch with Harry at the Goring Hotel in London .
She chose to delay promoting the visit so it would not overshadow her appearance with Harry at the Endeavour Fund Awards in the capital that evening .
Two pictures given directly to the London Evening Standard at Meghan 's request show her smiling in the theatre ’ s Immersive Storytelling Studio .
Palace officials remained tight-lipped but one well-placed insider said : `` Camilla ’ s work is very important to her and her decision to highlight the scourge of domestic violence at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World was a carefully thought-out plan .
`` Over the last four years she has worked tirelessly , mostly behind the scenes but to great effect , to use her platform and personal experiences to highlight the issue and help sufferers .
`` Of course it was known Harry and Meghan would be doing engagements this week , some privately , but everyone was in agreement that Camilla ’ s speech should take precedence .
Unfortunately some people had other ideas . ''
In her speech , Camilla said : `` On this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud president , it ’ s a huge pleasure to be here today .
`` But I ’ m also here as a woman in her 70s , who , as a somewhat ancient technophobe , is not always familiar with some of the jargon younger people use today , but I do know about hashtags .
`` And now I am using my very first one :  # everyonesproblem .
Domestic abuse is everyone ’ s problem and the solution must be too .
`` I find it almost impossible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living under that horrific threat , without my knowing it , but that is the power of coercive control and violence in the home .
`` It is characterised by silence .
Silence from those that suffer , silence from those around them , and silence from those who perpetrate abuse .
This silence is corrosive .
`` It leaves women , children and men carrying the burden of shame .
It prevents them from speaking out about the abuse and it prevents them from getting help .
And at its worst it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s speech was praised by the head of the Metropolitan Police , Cressida Dick , and the chief executive of Safe Lives , Susannah Jacobs .
Ms Dick said : `` It ’ s incredibly important that we have the interest the Duchess shows .
`` She has a really deep understanding of the issue and clearly cares . ''
Ms Jacobs said the impact of Camilla work had been extraordinary .
She added : `` We have had people from absolutely everywhere , particularly survivors , literally all the corners of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how much it meant to them and how touched they were by the fact that she keeps raising this issue and the warmth she shows to survivors .
`` They were also very moved by the candour she had in saying she knew people who have experienced the same .
`` It speaks to women who maybe feel that they are not allowed to say this is happening to them .
`` But as she said , there is no front door behind which this is not happening .
`` It meant a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highlight that .
It widens that space for conversation .
It was just huge . ''
Camilla has made the issue of domestic abuse a cornerstone of her public work after visiting the charity Safe Lives in 2016 and meeting survivors of horrific physical and mental torture .
In a candid admission last month , the Duchess revealed she has friends who have been victims of violence and coercive control .
She said : `` No one knows what goes on behind front doors .
It affects everybody .
It doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be my message : Whoever you are , there are organisations that can help . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Russell Myers, David Bentley)

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Meghan Markle has sparked fury at Buckingham Palace by stealing the limelight from a royal campaign planned by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Meghan broke protocol by releasing a series of pictures of her own private visit to the National Theatre on the same day Camilla launched a campaign against domestic violence.
She insisted the theatre pictures appeared today - as the Duchess of Cornwall gave her long-planned speech.
Her decision to upstage the Duchess of Cornwall’s address has left Camilla "very upset", insiders told the Mirror
(Image: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex/Chris Allerton/Instagram)
Prince Charles’ wife had been planning today’s speech - on the 10th anniversary of the Women of the World Festival in London - for nearly a year.
But Meghan broke a pledge not to overshadow Camilla's campaign by demanding the pictures of her National Theatre visit were published the same day.
Meghan's theatre pictures were taken by handpicked photographer Chris Allerton, who snapped the 38-year-old’s wedding to Prince Harry, 35, and their son Archie’s christening.
The Duchess of Sussex's trip to the National Theatre – where she is a patron – took place on Thursday after lunch with Harry at the Goring Hotel in London.
(Image: Getty Images)
She chose to delay promoting the visit so it would not overshadow her appearance with Harry at the Endeavour Fund Awards in the capital that evening.
Two pictures given directly to the London Evening Standard at Meghan's request show her smiling in the theatre’s Immersive Storytelling Studio.
Palace officials remained tight-lipped but one well-placed insider said: "Camilla’s work is very important to her and her decision to highlight the scourge of domestic violence at the 10th anniversary of Women of the World was a carefully thought-out plan.
"Over the last four years she has worked tirelessly, mostly behind the scenes but to great effect, to use her platform and personal experiences to highlight the issue and help sufferers.
"Of course it was known Harry and Meghan would be doing engagements this week, some privately, but everyone was in agreement that Camilla’s speech should take precedence. Unfortunately some people had other ideas."
In her speech, Camilla said: "On this tenth anniversary, as WOW’s proud president, it’s a huge pleasure to be here today.
"But I’m also here as a woman in her 70s, who, as a somewhat ancient technophobe, is not always familiar with some of the jargon younger people use today, but I do know about hashtags.
"And now I am using my very first one: #everyonesproblem. Domestic abuse is everyone’s problem and the solution must be too.
"I find it almost impossible to think any friend of mine might be living under that horrific threat, without my knowing it, but that is the power of coercive control and violence in the home.
"It is characterised by silence. Silence from those that suffer, silence from those around them, and silence from those who perpetrate abuse. This silence is corrosive.
"It leaves women, children and men carrying the burden of shame. It prevents them from speaking out about the abuse and it prevents them from getting help. And at its worst it can be fatal."
(Image: Getty Images)
Camilla’s speech was praised by the head of the Metropolitan Police, Cressida Dick, and the chief executive of Safe Lives, Susannah Jacobs.
Ms Dick said: "It’s incredibly important that we have the interest the Duchess shows.
"She has a really deep understanding of the issue and clearly cares."
Ms Jacobs said the impact of Camilla work had been extraordinary.
She added: "We have had people from absolutely everywhere, particularly survivors, literally all the corners of the globe, getting in touch to say how much it meant to them and how touched they were by the fact that she keeps raising this issue and the warmth she shows to survivors.
"They were also very moved by the candour she had in saying she knew people who have experienced the same.
"It speaks to women who maybe feel that they are not allowed to say this is happening to them.
"But as she said, there is no front door behind which this is not happening.
"It meant a great deal to people for her to highlight that. It widens that space for conversation. It was just huge."
Camilla has made the issue of domestic abuse a cornerstone of her public work after visiting the charity Safe Lives in 2016 and meeting survivors of horrific physical and mental torture.
In a candid admission last month, the Duchess revealed she has friends who have been victims of violence and coercive control.
She said: "No one knows what goes on behind front doors. It affects everybody. It doesn’t matter who you are.
"That would be my message: Whoever you are, there are organisations that can help."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'A class act' - Former Man United star says Jack Grealish could replace Paul Pogba

Former Manchester United midfielder Lee Sharpe reckons his old side might be forced to sell Paul Pogba if they buy Jack Grealish in the summer .
The Aston Villa captain has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford as a result of his good form this season , with Grealish netting nine goals registering eight assists in 30 matches .
Grealish has also attracted reported interest from Manchester City as well as Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid .
United are expected to make Grealish a major part of their overhaul this summer as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer revamps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maddison and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jadon Sancho are also set to be targeted , according to reports .
Grealish 's arrival could signal the end for Pogba 's four-season stay at Old Trafford , says Sharpe .
“ It has been reported that United are in the box seat to sign Jack Grealish , '' he told Gentingbet.com .
`` Can Grealish take United to a different level ? ''
`` I love watching him play , I think he is fantastic on the ball , his vision and awareness are absolutely second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guessing he would be there to replace Pogba .
“ If Grealish comes and they are playing Fernandes , there is no room in the team really for someone like Pogba , I think that is probably a little bit too many creative players .
“ I think Grealish would do great at United ; I think at the moment , he can be very much singled out as the main attacking threat for Villa , and you can get a player or two on him all the time .
“ At United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around him , I think he will get a little bit more freedom , a little bit more space to create and do his stuff .
“ So , I think he will be a great addition to the squad .
”

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Former Manchester United midfielder Lee Sharpe reckons his old side might be forced to sell Paul Pogba if they buy Jack Grealish in the summer.
The Aston Villa captain has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford as a result of his good form this season, with Grealish netting nine goals registering eight assists in 30 matches.
Grealish has also attracted reported interest from Manchester City as well as Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid.
United are expected to make Grealish a major part of their overhaul this summer as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer revamps his squad.
Leicester City's James Maddison and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jadon Sancho are also set to be targeted, according to reports.
Grealish's arrival could signal the end for Pogba's four-season stay at Old Trafford, says Sharpe.
“It has been reported that United are in the box seat to sign Jack Grealish," he told Gentingbet.com.
"Can Grealish take United to a different level?"
“Jack Grealish is a class act.
"I love watching him play, I think he is fantastic on the ball, his vision and awareness are absolutely second to none.
“And I am guessing he would be there to replace Pogba.
“If Grealish comes and they are playing Fernandes, there is no room in the team really for someone like Pogba, I think that is probably a little bit too many creative players.
“I think Grealish would do great at United; I think at the moment, he can be very much singled out as the main attacking threat for Villa, and you can get a player or two on him all the time.
“At United, with a couple more better players around him, I think he will get a little bit more freedom, a little bit more space to create and do his stuff.
“So, I think he will be a great addition to the squad.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Swansea v West Brom LIVE: Goal alerts from the Liberty Stadium

After three matches at The Hawthorns in the space of eight days , West Brom take their promotion bid back on the road where , let ’ s face it , they ’ ve enjoyed it more this season .
Albion comfortably sit at the top of the ‘ away form ’ table , having won 11 of their 18 visits to other stadiums around the country this term and have only lost twice .
They ’ ll have cup tied pair Callum Robinson and Kamil Grosicki back available , and Romaine Sawyers has served his three-match ban , too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be bringing in a number of first choice players who were given a night off in the FA Cup meeting with Newcastle on Tuesday , including Semi Ajayi , Hal Robson-Kanu , Sam Johnstone , Matheus Pereira and Jake Livermore .
The Swans , on the end of Albion ’ s biggest win of the season at The Hawthorns back in December , have it all to play for too ; they ’ re down in ninth , but only four points away from a play-off place with ten matches still to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the match throughout the afternoon , and reaction from both managers post match .

West Brom played out their first goalless draw of the season as they dominated Swansea City without doing enough in the final third to merit all three points.
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week, courtesy of Leeds’ win over Huddersfield.
Romaine Sawyers was restored to the starting XI after serving his ban, while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth.
There were one or two hairy moments in the first half, when Andre Ayew, Aldo Kalulu and Rhian Brewster had look-ins, but it was a period enjoyed by Albion largely.
Both Dara O’Shea and Callum Robinson delivered excellent low crosses that flashed past the goal, but both evaded the stretching Hal Robson-Kanu.
Beyond that, the other notable opening was when Robinson won the ball in the hosts’ half and shot low, forcing Woodman into a low save.
In the second, the Baggies just lacked ideas once they’d arrived at the penalty area. Robson-Kanu and Darnell Furlong tried their luck; Livermore’s effort ought to have won it, but he couldn’t keep his strike down.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Boy, 16, stabbed in neck outside row of shops in Nechells

A boy has been stabbed in the neck outside a row of shops .
The 16-year-old victim was knifed near a Dixy Chicken and convenience stores in Duddeston Mill Road , Nechells just after 9pm on Friday , March 6 .
He suffered injuries to the neck and was taken to hospital after being wheeled out to an ambulance on a stretcher .
His injuries were not believed to be life-threatening .
Police were yet to make any arrests and had launched an investigation into the attack .
CCTV trawls were being carried out in a desperate bid to hunt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scene captured police vehicles and an ambulance blocking off the road near to the Little Hall Road junction .
Police tape can be seen across Kash 's Vauxhall Food Store shortly after the stabbing .
Anyone who has information is urged to contact the police .
A statement from West Midlands Police read : `` We are investigating a stabbing inside a shop on Duddeston Mill Road in Nechells , Birmingham just after 9pm last night ( Friday 6 March ) .
`` A 16-year-old boy was stabbed in the neck and taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening at this time .
`` CCTV enquiries continue to trace the offender .
Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or call 101 anytime .
`` Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote crime reference 20BW/60859V/20 . ''

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A boy has been stabbed in the neck outside a row of shops.
The 16-year-old victim was knifed near a Dixy Chicken and convenience stores in Duddeston Mill Road, Nechells just after 9pm on Friday, March 6.
He suffered injuries to the neck and was taken to hospital after being wheeled out to an ambulance on a stretcher.
His injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.
Police were yet to make any arrests and had launched an investigation into the attack.
CCTV trawls were being carried out in a desperate bid to hunt the knifeman.
Dramatic video from the scene captured police vehicles and an ambulance blocking off the road near to the Little Hall Road junction.
Police tape can be seen across Kash's Vauxhall Food Store shortly after the stabbing.
Anyone who has information is urged to contact the police.
A statement from West Midlands Police read: "We are investigating a stabbing outside a shop on Duddeston Mill Road in Nechells, Birmingham just after 9pm last night (Friday 6 March).
"A 16-year-old boy was stabbed in the neck and taken to hospital, though his injuries are not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening at this time.
"CCTV enquiries continue to trace the offender. Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.
"Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime reference 20BW/60859V/20."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Club chief explains why Aston Villa transfer was ‘inevitable’ in January

Mbwana Samatta ’ s move to Aston Villa was ‘ inevitable ’ according to Genk chief Dimitri De Conde .
The Tanzania striker signed for Villa towards the end of the January transfer window in a deal worth around £8.5m and he ’ s scored twice in five appearances so far .
Villa were desperate to reinforce their forward line after Wesley Moraes was ruled out for the season while backup Keinan Davis has also having suffered with injuries this season .
Genk were in no position to resist Villa ’ s advances and also saw midfielder Sander Berge move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United .
Explaining it had become too difficult for Genk to hold onto their star players after losing the spine of their title-winning team last summer , the Belgian club ’ s technical director De Conde told Het Belang van Limburg ( via Sport Witness ) : “ The heart [ of the team ] disappeared , which is bad for the balance in a team.
” He added : “ I also hoped that Berge and Samatta would finish the season with us .
“ However , because we had a difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weak for the Champions League – which unfortunately applies to every Belgian club – and they were offers from the Premier League .
“ Their departure was inevitable .
No club can accommodate such an exodus of support pillars .
”

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Mbwana Samatta’s move to Aston Villa was ‘inevitable’ according to Genk chief Dimitri De Conde.
The Tanzania striker signed for Villa towards the end of the January transfer window in a deal worth around £8.5m and he’s scored twice in five appearances so far.
Villa were desperate to reinforce their forward line after Wesley Moraes was ruled out for the season while backup Keinan Davis has also having suffered with injuries this season.
Genk were in no position to resist Villa’s advances and also saw midfielder Sander Berge move to the Premier League to join Sheffield United.
Explaining it had become too difficult for Genk to hold onto their star players after losing the spine of their title-winning team last summer, the Belgian club’s technical director De Conde told Het Belang van Limburg (via Sport Witness): “The heart [of the team] disappeared, which is bad for the balance in a team.”
He added: “I also hoped that Berge and Samatta would finish the season with us.
“However, because we had a difficult start and our new team were too weak for the Champions League – which unfortunately applies to every Belgian club – and they were offers from the Premier League.
“Their departure was inevitable. No club can accommodate such an exodus of support pillars.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Our last hope' - Aston Villa fans love this major injury update

Aston Villa fans have been reacting to the club 's injury update on midfielder John McGinn .
Dean Smith revealed yesterday that the Scotland midfielder is back on the training pitch with his team-mates , but is n't involved in contact sessions yet .
The 25-year-old is on the comeback trail after fracturing his ankle in a 3-1 defeat to Southampton in December , suffering the injury when chasing down a clearance from one of Ralph Hasenhuttl 's men .
McGinn wo n't be fit for the Premier League clash with Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has the Chelsea clash a week today in his sights .
The former Hibernian midfielder was instrumental in last season 's promotion to the Premier League and had started the season well .
And Villa fans ca n't wait for the influential centre-mid to return .
Here 's what they 've had to say on social media ... @ TyBracey : YASSSSS can ’ t wait for Dad and Uncle John to be back together @ SirBob1892 : I don ’ t want to add any pressure but you and you alone are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snlmchl40 : things you love to see : @ HateleyKieran : This is the content I wan na see lads @ nickgd99 : Things we love to see @ max_elmer : How do you retweet this twice ?

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Aston Villa fans have been reacting to the club's injury update on midfielder John McGinn.
Dean Smith revealed yesterday that the Scotland midfielder is back on the training pitch with his team-mates, but isn't involved in contact sessions yet.
The 25-year-old is on the comeback trail after fracturing his ankle in a 3-1 defeat to Southampton in December, suffering the injury when chasing down a clearance from one of Ralph Hasenhuttl's men.
McGinn won't be fit for the Premier League clash with Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Monday night (8pm), but he has the Chelsea clash a week today in his sights.
The former Hibernian midfielder was instrumental in last season's promotion to the Premier League and had started the season well.
And Villa fans can't wait for the influential centre-mid to return.
Here's what they've had to say on social media...
@ TyBracey : YASSSSS can’t wait for Dad and Uncle John to be back together
@ Browny_AVFC : He’s back
@ SirBob1892 : I don’t want to add any pressure but you and you alone are our last hope of survival.
@ FortressPark : What a sight for sore eyes
@ izzyfellows : day : made
@ snlmchl40 : things you love to see:
@ RichardHolmesS1 : Need you back
@ shaunkallen : Announce top four charge boys
@ HateleyKieran : This is the content I wanna see lads
@ nickgd99 : Things we love to see
@ max_elmer : How do you retweet this twice?


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Crufts 2020 LIVE results for Day 3 Working and Pastoral judging - all the winners

Crufts 2020 is now on its third day at the NEC Birmingham .
We 've now seen judging for the utility , toy and gundog breeds , meaning there are already three group winners who are now finalists in the Best in Show finale .
Another two group winners are being selected today , following judging of the working and pastoral breeds .
Saturday March 7 is also offering a host of other activities through the day including junior handling , heelwork , flyball , obedience and the Scruffts final .
Attendance is reported to be notably lower at Crufts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Club said it had been advised to go ahead with the event and has put in place a number of additional precautions to try to stop the spread of COVID-19 .
Alarm about the possible role of dogs in spreading or contracting the new virus strain has been triggered by a case in Hong Kong .
But scientists are n't yet sure if the dog was n't simply carrying virus particles in its nose and mouth because of close contact with its owner , a coronavirus patient .
The 2020 winners - to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day 1 Utility and Toy dog winners here Find out the Day 2 Gundog winners here WINNER OF WORKING : CH Lanfrese Ocolardo ( Boxer , known as Dave ) , owner Mr MJ Griffiths .
RESERVE : Meadowpark High Class ( Bernese Mountain Dog ) , owner Mrs C and Mr G Hartley-Mair and Dybdall WINNER OF PASTORAL : Dorian Spring Charleen Lumiere De La Vie EW16 , EW17 ( Samoyed , known as Charleen ) , owner Mr P M Silva Brito RESERVE : Domburg Because I Can Lebeau ( Belgian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Mrs L Smith & Lester THIRD : Tonkory Gold Digger At Huntly ( Border Collie ) , owner Mr D and Mrs M and Mrs J Connolly & Gregory These were the working dog breeds that were eligible to be exhibited at Crufts 2020 : These were the pastoral dog breeds that were eligible to be exhibited at Crufts 2020 : Clare Balding presents further coverage from the NEC in Birmingham , on the theme of Kids and Dogs .
The programme includes live coverage of the Flyball semi-finals , and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has been taking part in Crufts since he was 12 .
Vet Paul Manktelow shows young people how to get interested in veterinary science , and comedians Sally Phillips and Ronni Ancona drop in to watch the show .
Clare Balding presents continued coverage from the NEC Birmingham , with today 's theme being Kids and Dogs .
Clare is joined by a range of celebrity guests including comedians - and dog lovers - Sally Phillips and Ronni Ancona .
Vet Paul Manktelow shows young people how to get interested in veterinary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a 22-year-old YKC agility competitor who has been taking part in Crufts since he was 12 , when his mum passed away .

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Crufts 2020 is now on its third day at the NEC Birmingham.
We've now seen judging for the utility, toy and gundog breeds, meaning there are already three group winners who are now finalists in the Best in Show finale.
Another two group winners are being selected today, following judging of the working and pastoral breeds.
Saturday March 7 is also offering a host of other activities through the day including junior handling, heelwork, flyball, obedience and the Scruffts final.
Attendance is reported to be notably lower at Crufts 2020 amid coronavirus fears but The Kennel Club said it had been advised to go ahead with the event and has put in place a number of additional precautions to try to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Alarm about the possible role of dogs in spreading or contracting the new virus strain has been triggered by a case in Hong Kong. But scientists aren't yet sure if the dog wasn't simply carrying virus particles in its nose and mouth because of close contact with its owner, a coronavirus patient.
(Image: Flick.digital)
The 2020 winners
WINNER OF WORKING: Ch Phoenix Never Dies Du Monde d'Elias (Bullmastiff), Owner: S LOOSVELDT
RESERVE: Nageem Haribo At Haccasbrook ShCM ShCEx (Rottweiler), Owner: MR E C & MRS C H FRANKLIN
THIRD: Petro-Prestige Dzhiya (Tibetan Mastiff), Owner: MR A KASHIN
FOURTH: Ch Manzart Vogue JW ShCM (Dobermann), Owner: MRS A EVERLEY
(Image: Flick.digital)
WINNER OF PASTORAL: Ch Bottom Shaker The Greatest Picture (Old English Sheepdog), Owner: MR KOROKNAI
RESERVE: Ch Wyndstar Magic Marker (Australian Shepherd), Owner: MRS K, MRS D, MR J & MRS M KIRTLEY, ERDESZ, SHAW
THIRD: Ch Nikara Diamond Dancer JW (Samoyed), Owner: MRS V & MRS S A FREER & SMITH
FOURTH: Ch Frostice Makeover (Shetland Sheepdog), Owner: MRS B ANDERSSON
WINNER OF SCRUFFTS: Clooney (finalist in Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog category)
The 2019 winners
WINNER OF WORKING: CH Lanfrese Ocolardo (Boxer, known as Dave), owner Mr MJ Griffiths.
RESERVE: Meadowpark High Class (Bernese Mountain Dog), owner Mrs C and Mr G Hartley-Mair and Dybdall
THIRD: Stablemaster's Fatz JWW 14, EJW14 (Giant Schnauzer), owner J Frycze
FOURTH: Aquafortis Kamikaze (Portuguese Water Dog), owner Mrs R Christensen
WINNER OF PASTORAL: Dorian Spring Charleen Lumiere De La Vie EW16, EW17 (Samoyed, known as Charleen), owner Mr P M Silva Brito
RESERVE: Domburg Because I Can Lebeau (Belgian Shepherd Dog), owner Miss S and Mrs L Smith & Lester
THIRD: Tonkory Gold Digger At Huntly (Border Collie), owner Mr D and Mrs M and Mrs J Connolly & Gregory
FOURTH: Wyndstar Magic Marker (Australian Shepherd), owner Mrs Erdesz
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Resorts World Arena programme for Day 3
Saturday March 7 2020 - Working and Pastoral breeds judging
08.15 Crufts – International Invitation – Large – Jumping
08.55 Agility – Crufts Team – Small Final
09.55 International Junior Handling Competition part 1
11.15 Lowland Search and Rescue
11.35 International Junior Handling Competition part 2
12.25 Southern Golden Retriever Display Team
12.45 Heelwork to Music – Freestyle International Competition
14.10 RAF Display
14.40 Agility – International Invitation – Large (Agility)
15.30 West Midlands Police Display
15.50 Flyball – Team – Semi Finals (inc YKC Flyball)
16.40 BREAK
17.10 Agility – International Invitation - Large – Agility Finals
Heelwork to Music – Freestyle International Winner
International Junior Handling Competition – Final Judging
Scruffts Final
Obedience Champion (Bitch) and Reserve (Bitch) Display
Group Judging (Working) and Presentation
Group Judging (Pastoral) and Presentation
20.10 Programme Ends
The working breeds
These were the working dog breeds that were eligible to be exhibited at Crufts 2020:
Alaskan Malamute
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bouvier des Flandres
Boxer
Bullmastiff
Canadian Eskimo Dog
Dobermann
Dogue de Bordeaux
German Pinscher
Giant Schnauzer
Great Dane
Great Swiss Mountain Dog
Greenland Dog
Hovawart
Leonberger
Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
Newfoundland
Portuguese Water Dog
Rottweiler
Russian Black Terrier
St. Bernard
Siberian Husky
Tibetan Mastiff
AV Imported Breed Register (Working)
The pastoral breeds
These were the pastoral dog breeds that were eligible to be exhibited at Crufts 2020:
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Bearded Collie
Beauceron
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael)
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois)
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)
Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervueren)
Border Collie D
Briard
Catalan Sheepdog
Collie (Rough)
Collie (Smooth)
Estrela Mountain Dog
Finnish Lapphund
German Shepherd Dog
Hungarian Puli
Komondor
Lancashire Heeler
Maremma Sheepdog
Norwegian Buhund
Old English Sheepdog
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Pyrenean Mountain Dog
Pyrenean Sheepdog (Long Haired)
Samoyed
Shetland Sheepdog
Swedish Vallhund
Turkish Kangal Dog
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
AV Imported Breed Register (Pastoral)
TV schedule for Day 3
1630-1830 – Channel 4
Clare Balding presents further coverage from the NEC in Birmingham, on the theme of Kids and Dogs. The programme includes live coverage of the Flyball semi-finals, and a special appearance by a YKC agility competitor who has been taking part in Crufts since he was 12. Vet Paul Manktelow shows young people how to get interested in veterinary science, and comedians Sally Phillips and Ronni Ancona drop in to watch the show.
1900-2100 – Channel 4
Clare Balding presents continued coverage from the NEC Birmingham, with today's theme being Kids and Dogs. Clare is joined by a range of celebrity guests including comedians - and dog lovers - Sally Phillips and Ronni Ancona. Vet Paul Manktelow shows young people how to get interested in veterinary science, and Clare meets Rhys Parrin, a 22-year-old YKC agility competitor who has been taking part in Crufts since he was 12, when his mum passed away.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Flip' - The option Aston Villa have at their disposal for Leicester City

Dean Smith admits Aston Villa 's four-man defence worked well against Man City - but could yet switch to a back three on Monday at Leicester .
In his post-Wembley press conference , the head coach was asked about his system change , declaring : `` I felt over the last couple of games I did n't feel comfortable with three at the back .
We 've been giving away too many opportunities . ''
Villa are on a run of four-straight defeats yet , in Sunday 's Carabao Cup final , looked much more solid against City 's world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back four in the Premier League since that dreadful 3-0 defeat by Watford at Vicarage Road just after Christmas - a performance he continues to reference as one of the worst since he 's been at the club .
However , league form dipped again playing 3-4-3 with Villa conceding 16 goals from their seven games since Watford .
Against Leicester , though , Villa put in two very good displays playing three at the back and stifled Foxes attacking threat .
Brendan Rodgers ' side hammered Villa 4-1 at Villa Park in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the cup semis , Villa won 3-2 on aggregate playing 3-4-3 .
Asked if four at the back will be the way to go , Smith replied : `` It was on Sunday .
I just felt it was the best option for us .
`` I did n't think we defended well as a three at Southampton .
But , we defended well as a three against Leicester twice in the cup .
It 's something we can have now , that flip of system . ''
A man who somewhat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The big Belgian was back in the starting XI for the first time since that hapless stoppage-time error against Tottenham .
The centre-back was back alongside partner Tyrone Mings , and Smith said of Engels ' return : `` He 's a steady influence .
We knew what we was getting ( when we signed him ) .
`` I 'd seen enough of him playing before .
I tracked him before at Brentford and tracked him again ( at Villa ) .
`` He 's a very steady player and he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a couple of mistakes , it 'd be a really good season .
`` He 's certainly bounced back after that error against Tottenham in the last minute and I thought he put in a good performance at Wembley . ''
The boss admitted to sloppy errors which led to City 's goals last week , and added : `` It 's always what you do next , nobody can change what 's happened .
`` It 's about how you get better and learn from our experiences , learning to become better @ @ @ @ @ @

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Dean Smith admits Aston Villa's four-man defence worked well against Man City - but could yet switch to a back three on Monday at Leicester.
In his post-Wembley press conference, the head coach was asked about his system change, declaring: "I felt over the last couple of games I didn't feel comfortable with three at the back. We've been giving away too many opportunities."
Villa are on a run of four-straight defeats yet, in Sunday's Carabao Cup final, looked much more solid against City's world beaters.
Smith hasn't played a back four in the Premier League since that dreadful 3-0 defeat by Watford at Vicarage Road just after Christmas - a performance he continues to reference as one of the worst since he's been at the club.
(Image: PA)
However, league form dipped again playing 3-4-3 with Villa conceding 16 goals from their seven games since Watford.
Against Leicester, though, Villa put in two very good displays playing three at the back and stifled Foxes attacking threat.
Brendan Rodgers' side hammered Villa 4-1 at Villa Park in early December but, over two legs in the cup semis, Villa won 3-2 on aggregate playing 3-4-3.
Asked if four at the back will be the way to go, Smith replied: "It was on Sunday. I just felt it was the best option for us.
"I didn't think we defended well as a three at Southampton. But, we defended well as a three against Leicester twice in the cup. It's something we can have now, that flip of system."
A man who somewhat thrived on Sunday was Bjorn Engels. The big Belgian was back in the starting XI for the first time since that hapless stoppage-time error against Tottenham.
The centre-back was back alongside partner Tyrone Mings, and Smith said of Engels' return: "He's a steady influence. We knew what we was getting (when we signed him).
"I'd seen enough of him playing before. I tracked him before at Brentford and tracked him again (at Villa).
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
"He's a very steady player and he's had a steady season but, for a couple of mistakes, it'd be a really good season.
"He's certainly bounced back after that error against Tottenham in the last minute and I thought he put in a good performance at Wembley."
The boss admitted to sloppy errors which led to City's goals last week, and added: "It's always what you do next, nobody can change what's happened.
"It's about how you get better and learn from our experiences, learning to become better people and better players."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--John McGinn issues this eight-word message as Aston Villa deliver injury update

John McGinn has been speaking about his return to training with Aston Villa .
The influential midfielder has been out of the side with a fractured ankle , sustained in December 's 3-1 defeat to Southampton at Villa Park .
McGinn suffered the injury when a Saints clearance struck his ankle with such force at close range as he tried to charge the player down .
The Scotland international has missed the past nine League matches and Villa have gained just ten points in that time and have slipped a place to 19th .
Now he is back training with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left for Dean Smith 's side - but he 's not ready to return to action just yet .
He 's merely taking part in tactical sessions and has had to sit out any that involve contact .
But McGinn is clearly pleased to be back on the grass .
`` Buzzing to be back out with the boys ! ''
he tweeted yesterday .
Smith addressed McGinn 's situation in a pre-match press conference yesterday ahead of Monday night 's trip to Leicester City ( 8pm ) .
`` John McGinn is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` He trained with us .
`` We 've not had him training in contact sessions yet , he 's been involved in possession and shape work .
`` He 's getting to where we want him to be .
`` He 's had a CT Scan today to make sure there 's a full union of the fracture .
`` He feels really good which is the important thing .
`` He 'll be pushing me for Chelsea , that 's for sure .
`` Once he gets on that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 's certainly progressing quickly now . ''

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John McGinn has been speaking about his return to training with Aston Villa.
The influential midfielder has been out of the side with a fractured ankle , sustained in December's 3-1 defeat to Southampton at Villa Park.
McGinn suffered the injury when a Saints clearance struck his ankle with such force at close range as he tried to charge the player down.
The Scotland international has missed the past nine League matches and Villa have gained just ten points in that time and have slipped a place to 19th.
Now he is back training with his team-mates ahead of 11 crucial games left for Dean Smith 's side - but he's not ready to return to action just yet.
He's merely taking part in tactical sessions and has had to sit out any that involve contact.
But McGinn is clearly pleased to be back on the grass.
"Buzzing to be back out with the boys!" he tweeted yesterday.
Smith addressed McGinn's situation in a pre-match press conference yesterday ahead of Monday night's trip to Leicester City (8pm).
"John McGinn is nearer," the Villa head coach said.
"He trained with us.
"We've not had him training in contact sessions yet, he's been involved in possession and shape work.
"He's getting to where we want him to be.
"He's had a CT Scan today to make sure there's a full union of the fracture.
"He feels really good which is the important thing.
"He'll be pushing me for Chelsea, that's for sure.
"Once he gets on that training ground he'll move quickly and he's certainly progressing quickly now."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Obviously' - Dean Smith explains shock Jack Grealish call after Aston Villa cup final

Dean Smith has explained just why he shifted Jack Grealish into central midfield against Manchester City at Wembley .
The Aston Villa head coach played his skipper as a No.8 for the first time since Arsenal away way back in September .
Since then , though , the 24-year-old has excelled playing what Smith previously described as `` an inside forward '' role from off the left .
That attacking position is where Grealish had scored all seven of his Premier League goals to date but , at Wembley , was largely disappointing playing deeper .
`` He is self-critical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappointment , `` obviously because he cramped up .
He got cramp in both calves at the end .
`` I decided to play him inside .
I just felt , as I said before the game , anyone against Man City , you 're not going to see the ball too often .
`` I did n't want him to get lost in a wide area so put him inside .
The idea then was always to free him up in the last 20 minutes .
`` We managed to do that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably one of them games that missed Jack out a little bit , if we 're honest .
`` He 's fine , he just had cramp in his calves and he 's been back to his best in training .
`` He did n't need picking up .
He was disappointed but , again , he was proud of the lads and the performance they put in , taking Manchester City until the 95th minute . ''

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Dean Smith has explained just why he shifted Jack Grealish into central midfield against Manchester City at Wembley.
The Aston Villa head coach played his skipper as a No.8 for the first time since Arsenal away way back in September.
Since then, though, the 24-year-old has excelled playing what Smith previously described as "an inside forward" role from off the left.
That attacking position is where Grealish had scored all seven of his Premier League goals to date but, at Wembley, was largely disappointing playing deeper.
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
"He is self-critical," Smith said of Grealish's disappointment, "obviously because he cramped up. He got cramp in both calves at the end.
"I decided to play him inside. I just felt, as I said before the game, anyone against Man City, you're not going to see the ball too often.
"I didn't want him to get lost in a wide area so put him inside. The idea then was always to free him up in the last 20 minutes.
"We managed to do that. The other issue is it was probably one of them games that missed Jack out a little bit, if we're honest.
"He's fine, he just had cramp in his calves and he's been back to his best in training.
"He didn't need picking up. He was disappointed but, again, he was proud of the lads and the performance they put in, taking Manchester City until the 95th minute."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Slaven Bilic delivers simple promotion message to his West Brom players

Slaven Bilic has urged his players to seize the opportunity they ’ ve provided for themselves with the Championship finishing line in sight .
Having recovered from their rocky January , in which they conceded plenty of ground to promotion rivals without being overtaken , West Brom found form in February and aptly pulled away again .
The set-back at home to in-form Wigan last weekend is all that Bilic hopes it is - a set-back , a blip which won ’ t lead to anything more significant .
They enjoy a six-point breach to third placed Fulham , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aleksandar Mitrovic , but that unforeseen defeat at The Hawthorns to the Latics might well have acted as a reminder to Albion that they ’ re by no means done just yet .
This is your round up of all things West Brom ; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest goings on at the club and beyond .
Transfers , injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on the Baggies throughout the week and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • Chris Brunt speaks on his future after FA Cup exit - READ For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our West Brom reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com Bilic certainly realises that there ’ s work still to do .
“ Listen the gap is good – use it .
The gap gives you a bit of a cushion and it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bilic said .
“ It means you don ’ t have to panic if you ’ re not winning after 20 minutes .
But , at the same time , it ’ s not that huge so you have to keep on your toes .
“ The prize is so high that you can ’ t afford to be average , but we ’ re not because we are top .
If you are average you are going to achieve something average .
You can maybe be lucky and win one game , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the whole season .
“ My players have to be calm , but they also have to be crazy inside themselves with wanting to do something .
“ It ’ s a case of being complete and taking responsibility and I ’ m sure that we have that otherwise we wouldn ’ t be in this position .
“ Up to last week , we ’ ve been a team in form .
So there ’ s no way I ’ m going to let my team be less confident because we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s fair to assume that a number of Albion players who suffered the pain of defeat in the play-offs last season are being driven by the desire to avoid such an outcome 12 months on .
Indeed Albion - much changed at managerial level and playing level this time around - were never in the position they currently find themselves in under the previous regime .
Norwich and Sheffield United found extra gears as the Championship clubs turned for home last year , and it ’ s up to Albion now to produce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top two finish .
Equally , what cost Leeds and , to a certain extent , the Baggies themselves in the play-offs was the blow of missing out on automatic promotion , having kept pace for the majority of the season .
Regardless , Bilic wants his players to thrive under the pressure , rather than allow it to affect them .
“ They want to avoid it [ play-offs ] but it ’ s about balance - it ’ s good to have that pressure , ” he replied .
“ But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are afraid of everything .
“ You have to be focused for tomorrow but you have to be free .
They have to embrace the game and not think ‘ oh my god if we lose we go into the play-offs.
’ Then it is negative .
“ We have got to be brave , we have got to be brave in every situation if we want to achieve what we want to achieve .
“ We and a few other clubs , whether it ’ s staying in the league , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require exceptional performances , individually and collectively .
“ We are having that at the moment , that is why we are there , but it ’ s not just about us , the other clubs that are up there are having it as well .

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Slaven Bilic has urged his players to seize the opportunity they’ve provided for themselves with the Championship finishing line in sight.
Having recovered from their rocky January, in which they conceded plenty of ground to promotion rivals without being overtaken, West Brom found form in February and aptly pulled away again.
The set-back at home to in-form Wigan last weekend is all that Bilic hopes it is - a set-back, a blip which won’t lead to anything more significant.
They enjoy a six-point breach to third placed Fulham, who are being powered by the goals of Aleksandar Mitrovic, but that unforeseen defeat at The Hawthorns to the Latics might well have acted as a reminder to Albion that they’re by no means done just yet.
Bilic certainly realises that there’s work still to do.
“Listen the gap is good – use it. The gap gives you a bit of a cushion and it’s nice to have it,” Bilic said.
“It means you don’t have to panic if you’re not winning after 20 minutes. But, at the same time, it’s not that huge so you have to keep on your toes.
“The prize is so high that you can’t afford to be average, but we’re not because we are top. If you are average you are going to achieve something average. You can maybe be lucky and win one game, but you can’t be lucky for the whole season.
“My players have to be calm, but they also have to be crazy inside themselves with wanting to do something.
“It’s a case of being complete and taking responsibility and I’m sure that we have that otherwise we wouldn’t be in this position.
“Up to last week, we’ve been a team in form. So there’s no way I’m going to let my team be less confident because we lost a football game.”
It’s fair to assume that a number of Albion players who suffered the pain of defeat in the play-offs last season are being driven by the desire to avoid such an outcome 12 months on.
Indeed Albion - much changed at managerial level and playing level this time around - were never in the position they currently find themselves in under the previous regime.
Norwich and Sheffield United found extra gears as the Championship clubs turned for home last year, and it’s up to Albion now to produce similar in order to secure their own top two finish.
Equally, what cost Leeds and, to a certain extent, the Baggies themselves in the play-offs was the blow of missing out on automatic promotion, having kept pace for the majority of the season.
Regardless, Bilic wants his players to thrive under the pressure, rather than allow it to affect them.
“They want to avoid it [play-offs] but it’s about balance - it’s good to have that pressure,” he replied. “But it can’t be that they are afraid of everything.
“You have to be focused for tomorrow but you have to be free. They have to embrace the game and not think ‘oh my god if we lose we go into the play-offs.’ Then it is negative.
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“We have got to be brave, we have got to be brave in every situation if we want to achieve what we want to achieve.
“We and a few other clubs, whether it’s staying in the league, the play-offs or automatic promotion - exceptional achievements require exceptional performances, individually and collectively.
“We are having that at the moment, that is why we are there, but it’s not just about us,the other clubs that are up there are having it as well.
“It’s about consistency, simple as that.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Demand for town council cash to support new Sutton Coldfield police station site

Politicians have clashed over a proposal for Sutton Coldfield ’ s local authority to use its reserves invest in a multi-purpose town centre building to accommodate the under-threat police station .
City and town councillor , Rob Pocock ( Vesey , Lab . )
and his Vesey city counterpart , Kath Scott , ( Lab . )
are urging Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council to spend part of its £3 million reserves on a ‘ revamped , shared use facility which would retain a public front desk and operating police base for local officers serving the town ’ .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cllr Simon Ward ( Four Oaks , Cons . )
has described the plan as ‘ flagrant double taxation ’ .
Cllr Pocock said he and Cllr Scott raised a petition of more than 2,000 signatories two years ago supporting a retained police station in Sutton , despite Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson ( Lab . )
stating the Chief Constable for West Midlands Police , Dave Thompson has said the Sutton station in Lichfield Road was costly and surplus to requirements .
The building was said to be 90 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run .
Cllr Pocock said : “ The chief constable has made it clear the current building does not fit his future requirements , and now it ’ s clear the Government are not going to restore the old police numbers either .
“ A smaller , more modern facility is needed so let ’ s start thinking of new ideas for this .
Everyone knows the town council is sitting on an ever-growing pot of cash reserves , and this would be an excellent way of the town Council putting its money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streamlined 21st century police station base is needed in Sutton , so let ’ s see the town council step up and put some cash behind this .
It would solve the other outstanding problem bedevilling the town council , which is the fact it still doesn ’ t have its own public facing front office .
“ It ’ s paying temporary rent on a side office way outside of the public footfall – in fact I doubt if one in a thousand Sutton residents even knows where it is , let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services .
“ A police station co-located with a public town council office , plus a tourist and visitor information facility , would be a massive public asset for the people of Sutton .
Three high-level goals achieved in one fell swoop.
” While Cllr Scott , who is on the West Midlands Police Estates Board added : “ This could be a real winner for Sutton Coldfield .
When I was out collecting signatures for the petition , I was bombarded by people who wanted the town council to be working more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At our last Vesey ward meeting , residents were voicing their policing concerns .
It 's about time some commitment was made by our town council and our precept money put to good use , that supports our communities .
“ The idea of co-location sounds to be a great way to make this happen.
” Cllr Simon Ward responded to the proposal and said : “ The residents of Royal Sutton Coldfield pay a healthy and ever increasing precept to the PCC and that they have the right to expect a police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ ve been working with Andrew Mitchell to save our police station and for residents to be heard .
“ This is flagrant double taxation and a cynical attempt by Labour councillors to prop up their PCC with the town council precept .
It ’ s not on .
“ Cllrs Pocock and Scott are not satisfied with attempting to use the town council precept to substitute for the failings of Birmingham City council they now want to support their failing PCC .
Resources have been deliberately withdrawn from this station , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the resource channeled into other buildings across the estate .
The PCC ’ s office can not produce a single shred of evidence to justify why the only two front facing police stations that have been identified for closure are in Sutton Coldfield and Solihull .
If there is no political motivation , why has a cost-analysis not been undertaken of all Buildings in the Police Estate Portfolio , and why is any work they claim to have done in order to “ impartially ” identify sites for closure unable to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working group discussions is that the closure of our vital Police Station is without justification , without a single piece of evidence and is solely politically motivated .
It is a baseless decision that has been made without foundation , and will have a significant impact on safety levels in our Town and on how safe residents feel .

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Politicians have clashed over a proposal for Sutton Coldfield’s local authority to use its reserves invest in a multi-purpose town centre building to accommodate the under-threat police station.
City and town councillor, Rob Pocock (Vesey, Lab.) and his Vesey city counterpart, Kath Scott, (Lab.) are urging Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council to spend part of its £3 million reserves on a ‘revamped, shared use facility which would retain a public front desk and operating police base for local officers serving the town’.
But the leader of the town council, Cllr Simon Ward (Four Oaks, Cons.) has described the plan as ‘flagrant double taxation’.
(Image: Google)
Cllr Pocock said he and Cllr Scott raised a petition of more than 2,000 signatories two years ago supporting a retained police station in Sutton, despite Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson (Lab.) stating the Chief Constable for West Midlands Police, Dave Thompson has said the Sutton station in Lichfield Road was costly and surplus to requirements.
The building was said to be 90 per cent empty and costing £260,000 a year to run.
Cllr Pocock said: “The chief constable has made it clear the current building does not fit his future requirements, and now it’s clear the Government are not going to restore the old police numbers either.
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“A smaller, more modern facility is needed so let’s start thinking of new ideas for this. Everyone knows the town council is sitting on an ever-growing pot of cash reserves, and this would be an excellent way of the town Council putting its money where its mouth is.
“A streamlined 21st century police station base is needed in Sutton, so let’s see the town council step up and put some cash behind this.
It would solve the other outstanding problem bedevilling the town council, which is the fact it still doesn’t have its own public facing front office.
“It’s paying temporary rent on a side office way outside of the public footfall – in fact I doubt if one in a thousand Sutton residents even knows where it is, let alone goes there for information on local services.
“A police station co-located with a public town council office, plus a tourist and visitor information facility, would be a massive public asset for the people of Sutton. Three high-level goals achieved in one fell swoop.”
While Cllr Scott, who is on the West Midlands Police Estates Board added: “This could be a real winner for Sutton Coldfield. When I was out collecting signatures for the petition, I was bombarded by people who wanted the town council to be working more closely with the local police.
“At our last Vesey ward meeting, residents were voicing their policing concerns. It's about time some commitment was made by our town council and our precept money put to good use, that supports our communities.
“The idea of co-location sounds to be a great way to make this happen.”
Cllr Simon Ward responded to the proposal and said: “The residents of Royal Sutton Coldfield pay a healthy and ever increasing precept to the PCC and that they have the right to expect a police station as part of that.
“We’ve been working with Andrew Mitchell to save our police station and for residents to be heard.
“This is flagrant double taxation and a cynical attempt by Labour councillors to prop up their PCC with the town council precept. It’s not on.
“Cllrs Pocock and Scott are not satisfied with attempting to use the town council precept to substitute for the failings of Birmingham City council they now want to support their failing PCC.
Resources have been deliberately withdrawn from this station, and no comparison has been given as to the resource channeled into other buildings across the estate.
The PCC’s office cannot produce a single shred of evidence to justify why the only two front facing police stations that have been identified for closure are in Sutton Coldfield and Solihull.
If there is no political motivation, why has a cost-analysis not been undertaken of all Buildings in the Police Estate Portfolio, and why is any work they claim to have done in order to “impartially” identify sites for closure unable to be shared?
The principal conclusion of the working group discussions is that the closure of our vital Police Station is without justification, without a single piece of evidence and is solely politically motivated. It is a baseless decision that has been made without foundation, and will have a significant impact on safety levels in our Town and on how safe residents feel.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Is Leicester City v Aston Villa on TV? Live stream, channel details, how to watch

Aston Villa resume their Premier League campaign with a visit to Leicester City .
Villa will be looking to brush off the disappointment of their Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City as they bid to climb out of the relegation zone .
Dean Smith 's men are currently second from bottom of the table but are within three points of the four teams immediately above them .
Leicester are third in the table but are without a win in five matches in all competitions , and lost 1-0 at bottom club Norwich City last time out .
Ahead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's some key information ...
When is the game ?
Leicester City v Aston Villa will be played on Monday ( March 9 ) .
The match , at the King Power Stadium , is due to kick off at 8pm .
Is it on TV ?
It is indeed .
The match is being shown live on Sky Sports Main Event .
You can do this through NOW TV , which can be streamed on a computer or apps that are available for most smart televisions , phones and consoles .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day pass for £9.99 , a week pass for £14.99 or a month pass for £33.99 .
Existing Sky Sports customers can live stream the game via the Sky Go app .
How else can I follow the match ?
You can follow all the action as it unfolds with our live coverage right here at BirminghamLive .
What are the odds ?
Odds courtesy of Sky Bet and are subject to change

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris Watson, Mark Wakefield)

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Aston Villa are back in action tonight when they travel to Leicester City (8pm).
Dean Smith's side begin to plot their course out of the relegation zone with the first of their 11 matches left of the season kicking off tonight.
They face off against Brendan Rodgers' Champions League chasers, with City hoping to end a winless streak that stretches back to January 22.
The big game is the focus of the Premier League tonight, with the match the only one being played in the English top flight today.
Villa have seen their relegation rivals play over the weekend and they could climb out of the bottom three with a win tonight.
Here's all the important information on how you can watch the big game...
When is the game?
Leicester City v Aston Villa will be played tonight.
The match, at the King Power Stadium, is due to kick off at 8pm.
Is it on TV?
It is indeed. The match is being shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.
How can I watch online?
You can do this through NOW TV, which can be streamed on a computer or apps that are available for most smart televisions, phones and consoles.
You can sign up for a Sky Sports day pass for £9.99, a week pass for £14.99 or a month pass for £33.99.
Existing Sky Sports customers can live stream the game via the Sky Go app.
In the United States you can watch the game on NBCSN.
In Canada, the match can be streamed on DAZN
How else can I follow the match?
You can follow all the action as it unfolds with our live coverage right here at BirminghamLive.
Form guide
Leicester - LDDLL
Villa - WLLLL
What are the odds?
Leicester - 8/5
Villa - 5/1
Draw - 10/3
*Odds courtesy of thepools.com and are correct at the time of writing


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Referee with worrying Aston Villa history to take charge of Leicester City clash

Aston Villa resume their Premier League campaign on Monday night with an away trip to Leicester City .
This will be Villa ’ s first league fixture in over a fortnight , after last weekend was taken up by their involvement in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City .
Dean Smith ’ s side go into the clash against the Foxes in 19th pace in the league table , and two points from safety in the relegation zone – although they do have two games in hand over their closest challengers .
Leicester are in third place in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second-placed Man City who have played one game fewer .
Ahead of the game , it has been confirmed that Michael Oliver will be the man in the middle for the fixture at the King Power .
Oliver will be assisted by Daniel Cook and Simon Bennett , while Chris Kavanagh will work as the fourth official .
This will be the fourth Villa match that Oliver has refereed this season , with the last coming on New Year ’ s Day as the Lions claimed a 2-1 away win over Burnley .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ reverse fixture between these sides in December , which saw Villa lose 4-1 at Villa Park , but if you go back to August , Oliver was also the referee for Villa ’ s 2-0 win over Everton .
This weekend saw Oliver fulfil the VAR duties in the Premier League clash between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield .

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Aston Villa resume their Premier League campaign on Monday night with an away trip to Leicester City.
This will be Villa ’s first league fixture in over a fortnight, after last weekend was taken up by their involvement in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
Dean Smith’s side go into the clash against the Foxes in 19th pace in the league table, and two points from safety in the relegation zone – although they do have two games in hand over their closest challengers.
Leicester are in third place in the current league standings, seven points behind second-placed Man City who have played one game fewer.
Ahead of the game, it has been confirmed that Michael Oliver will be the man in the middle for the fixture at the King Power.
Oliver will be assisted by Daniel Cook and Simon Bennett, while Chris Kavanagh will work as the fourth official.
This will be the fourth Villa match that Oliver has refereed this season, with the last coming on New Year’s Day as the Lions claimed a 2-1 away win over Burnley.
Oliver was also in charge of the reverse fixture between these sides in December, which saw Villa lose 4-1 at Villa Park, but if you go back to August, Oliver was also the referee for Villa’s 2-0 win over Everton.
This weekend saw Oliver fulfil the VAR duties in the Premier League clash between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Mark Bowen has this message about Birmingham City after Reading win

Mark Bowen could not hide his satisfaction at Reading ’ s 3-1 victory over Birmingham City .
After all the Welsh coach was a big part of Steve Bruce ’ s backroom staff , which helped Blues end their 16-year exile from the top flight of English football .
That was in 2002 , he would eventually leave in 2004 - but nearly two decades on the Reading manager remembers the club fondly .
“ It ’ s got a special place in my heart , this club , ” Bowen said .
“ We had two and a half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League .
“ The last year we finished tenth in the Premier League and these fans here left a lasting impression on me because I know what they can give to this club .
It is a good club . ''
Bowen wasn ’ t the only - nor even the most recent former Blues figure returning to St Andrew ’ s .
Michael Morrison captained the Royals today - just as he did for most of his five years at Blues before last summer ’ s departure .
The 32-year-old was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend - Lukas Jutkiewicz and gave a defiant display .
“ In the home game , he scored an own goal and was gutted afterwards , ” Bowen said .
“ He has got a big affinity with this club and it has a special place in his heart and it ’ s always nice to come back and put on a good show .
“ He has got a massive smile on his face in the dressing room .
He knew he was going to be in a battle right from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first few minutes , to come back and put the performance he and we did , full credit to him .
”

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Mark Bowen could not hide his satisfaction at Reading’s 3-1 victory over Birmingham City.
After all the Welsh coach was a big part of Steve Bruce’s backroom staff, which helped Blues end their 16-year exile from the top flight of English football.
That was in 2002, he would eventually leave in 2004 - but nearly two decades on the Reading manager remembers the club fondly.
“It’s got a special place in my heart, this club,” Bowen said. “We had two and a half years here and got promotion to the Premier League.
“The last year we finished tenth in the Premier League and these fans here left a lasting impression on me because I know what they can give to this club. It is a good club."
Bowen wasn’t the only - nor even the most recent former Blues figure returning to St Andrew’s.
Michael Morrison captained the Royals today - just as he did for most of his five years at Blues before last summer’s departure.
The 32-year-old was up against his former team-mate - and friend - Lukas Jutkiewicz and gave a defiant display.
“In the home game, he scored an own goal and was gutted afterwards,” Bowen said.
“He has got a big affinity with this club and it has a special place in his heart and it’s always nice to come back and put on a good show.
“He has got a massive smile on his face in the dressing room. He knew he was going to be in a battle right from the start and taking the hit we did in the first few minutes, to come back and put the performance he and we did, full credit to him.”