birminghammail--2020-09-19--First-team pair left out as Albion forced to wait on Gallagher

West Brom boss Slaven Bilic has stuck with the same starting XI that were beaten by Leicester City as Albion tackle Everton at Goodison Park this afternoon .
Boss Bilic is without Conor Gallagher , who is unable to make his debut for the club here after signing on loan from Chelsea because of a hold up in the paperwork of his transfer .
Branislav Ivanovic , too , misses out as he builds up his fitness levels after arriving on a free transfer from Zenit St Petersburg earlier this week .
The same XI presumably means that Bilic is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first got a run-out against Leicester , while on the bench there are a couple of notable absentees .
Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store There is no place in the match-day 18 for winger Kamil Grosicki or striker Charlie Austin , both who failed to impress in the comfortable win over Harrogate in the EFL Cup on Wednesday .
Instead there are places on the bench for Cedric Kipre , for the first time , and young Sam Field - both played 90 minutes in the week .
Matty Phillips is also on the bench , while Ahmed Hegazi is still not ready to partake .
Everton , meanwhile , give home debuts to Allan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impressive 1-0 win at Tottenham last weekend .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
West Brom boss Slaven Bilic has stuck with the same starting XI that were beaten by Leicester City as Albion tackle Everton at Goodison Park this afternoon.
Boss Bilic is without Conor Gallagher, who is unable to make his debut for the club here after signing on loan from Chelsea because of a hold up in the paperwork of his transfer.
Branislav Ivanovic, too, misses out as he builds up his fitness levels after arriving on a free transfer from Zenit St Petersburg earlier this week.
The same XI presumably means that Bilic is sticking with his adopted 3-4-3 formation that first got a run-out against Leicester, while on the bench there are a couple of notable absentees.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
There is no place in the match-day 18 for winger Kamil Grosicki or striker Charlie Austin, both who failed to impress in the comfortable win over Harrogate in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
Instead there are places on the bench for Cedric Kipre, for the first time, and young Sam Field - both played 90 minutes in the week.
Matty Phillips is also on the bench, while Ahmed Hegazi is still not ready to partake.
Everton, meanwhile, give home debuts to Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure after their impressive 1-0 win at Tottenham last weekend.
EVERTON
Pickford; Coleman, Mina, Keane, Digne; Doucoure, Allan, Rodriguez, Gomes, Richarlison, Calvert-Lewin
Subs: Virginia, Kenny, Sigurdsson, Iwobi, Barnard, Davies, Kean
ALBION
Johnstone; Furlong, Ajayi, Bartley, O’Shea, Gibbs; Sawyers, Livermore; Pereira, Diangana, Robinson
Subs: Button, Kipre, Field, Harper, Robson-Kanu, Edwards, Phillips


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Chris Wilder makes claim after missing out on Aston Villa duo

Chris Wilder admits Sheffield United were priced out of moves for Matty Cash and Ollie Watkins prior to their big-money transfers to Aston Villa .
The pair joined Villa for a combined £42 million - which could rise to £49 million with various add-ons - from Nottingham Forest and Brentford respectively .
The Blades ' interest in Forest right-back Cash was well-documented while Wilder also looked at Watkins knowing United still need a striker .
Wilder was asked about the money forked out for the Championship duo , and told YorkshireLive : `` It ’ s obviously a topic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the TV whenever you switch it on , everyone wants to talk about it .
`` I have talked about it in the week that we are not going to spend what we haven ’ t got .
You try and improve your squad with talented players and Villa have done that and that ’ s their choice and their ability to do that .
`` I have always tried to make sure I don ’ t put us in a position where we suffer for years and years because of reckless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football club in looking after it . ''
Villa are yet to play in the Premier League but host Sheffield United in their curtain-raiser on Monday .
`` We have had a decent record against Villa , a fabulous club , '' Wilder added , `` really established and you talk about the top clubs like Liverpool , Arsenals who have won things but when you look at clubs in terms of stature you put Villa and the likes of Newcastle and Leeds right up there . ''
He continued : `` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signings .
We know all about Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash , they will be better for that first year experience and I am sure everyone will want to go better than what they did last year .
`` You would expect them to be because of the quality that they have got and have every right to do that .
I believe they will go better when you look at the quality and depth of their squad .
They have attracted some very good players . ''
In today 's press conference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about that infamous 'ghost goal ' involving Orjan Nyland during Project Restart and how Hawk-Eye missed the ball crossing the goal-line during the 0-0 draw at Villa Park .
He said : `` A couple of other clubs might have had a moan towards the end of the season and always that possibility it would affect people because of how tight it was down there and would always be decided by a point or two .
`` I have said far too much about it but we were disappointed on the night .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ t happen again .
Villa had a great end to the season . ''
On the explanation he got from the Premier League , Wilder added : `` Not at all satisfied with the explanation I got , the statement that was made on the night .
`` Had nothing from anybody , we got a bit of contact from the Premier League .
I was asked a question that I was expected to be asked on the night and afterwards but I am not sat here now saying everything has been explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more of a powerful club in the Premier League there would have been a lot more made of that .
It will come out as manager at United moaning but I am just giving my honest feeling . ''

Chris Wilder admits Sheffield United were priced out of moves for Matty Cash and Ollie Watkins prior to their big-money transfers to Aston Villa.
The pair joined Villa for a combined £42 million - which could rise to £49 million with various add-ons - from Nottingham Forest and Brentford respectively.
The Blades' interest in Forest right-back Cash was well-documented while Wilder also looked at Watkins knowing United still need a striker.
Wilder was asked about the money forked out for the Championship duo, and told YorkshireLive : "It’s obviously a topic and talking point. It’s all over the TV whenever you switch it on, everyone wants to talk about it.
"I have talked about it in the week that we are not going to spend what we haven’t got. You try and improve your squad with talented players and Villa have done that and that’s their choice and their ability to do that.
"I have always tried to make sure I don’t put us in a position where we suffer for years and years because of reckless attitude and lack of responsibility for the football club in looking after it."
Villa are yet to play in the Premier League but host Sheffield United in their curtain-raiser on Monday.
"We have had a decent record against Villa, a fabulous club," Wilder added, "really established and you talk about the top clubs like Liverpool, Arsenals who have won things but when you look at clubs in terms of stature you put Villa and the likes of Newcastle and Leeds right up there."
He continued: "They have certainly improved the squad, fabulous signings. We know all about Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash, they will be better for that first year experience and I am sure everyone will want to go better than what they did last year.
"You would expect them to be because of the quality that they have got and have every right to do that. I believe they will go better when you look at the quality and depth of their squad. They have attracted some very good players."
In today's press conference, Blades boss Wilder was also asked about that infamous 'ghost goal' involving Orjan Nyland during Project Restart and how Hawk-Eye missed the ball crossing the goal-line during the 0-0 draw at Villa Park.
(Image: Getty Images)
He said: "A couple of other clubs might have had a moan towards the end of the season and always that possibility it would affect people because of how tight it was down there and would always be decided by a point or two.
"I have said far too much about it but we were disappointed on the night. I am sure that decision won’t happen again. Villa had a great end to the season."
On the explanation he got from the Premier League, Wilder added: "Not at all satisfied with the explanation I got, the statement that was made on the night.
"Had nothing from anybody, we got a bit of contact from the Premier League. I was asked a question that I was expected to be asked on the night and afterwards but I am not sat here now saying everything has been explained.
"If we were a bit more of a powerful club in the Premier League there would have been a lot more made of that. It will come out as manager at United moaning but I am just giving my honest feeling."


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Pictured: Damage at George V pub and Hobs Meadow in Sheldon after targeted attacks

Pictured : Damage at George V pub and Hobs Meadow in Sheldon after targeted attacks Landlady Paula Taylor has been @ @ @ @ @ barring drug dealers from the George V in Common Lane

Pictured: Damage at George V pub and Hobs Meadow in Sheldon after targeted attacks
The Common Lane venue has been repeatedly targeted after drug dealers were barred
(Image: Birmingham Live) 1 of 6 Share
(Image: Birmingham Live) 2 of 6 Share
(Image: Birmingham Live) 3 of 6 Share


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Aston Villa fans dream big after transfer spend smashes £75 million

Bertrand Traore completed his Aston Villa transfer on Friday and , in doing so , became Dean Smith 's fourth signing of a quality over quantity remit .
The 25-year-old penned a four-year contract following his £17 million move from Ligue 1 giants Lyon .
Villa 's initial spend - not taking into account add-ons - stands at £75 million following the arrivals of Matty Cash for £14 million , record-buy Ollie Watkins for £28 million and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for £16 million .
If respective add-ons are triggered , Villa 's spend would come in at £88 million .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ head coach Smith reiterated that Villa are far from done in the transfer window with signings expected prior to the October 5 deadline .
Here 's how Villa supporters have reacted following the latest man through the door , exciting forward Traore : Ty Bracey : YOU LOVE TO SEE IT !
!
!
!
Son Lyme : Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition .
Garin Williams : Go on the lads !
!
!
!
Scott Leach : Very happy with this !
Welcome !
CW04 : Get Rashica and our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ James Simmonds : Excited about this one !
You can follow our dedicated Aston Villa transfer blog HERE .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
Click to play Tap to play
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
See Our
See Our
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Bertrand Traore completed his Aston Villa transfer on Friday and, in doing so, became Dean Smith's fourth signing of a quality over quantity remit.
The 25-year-old penned a four-year contract following his £17 million move from Ligue 1 giants Lyon.
Villa's initial spend - not taking into account add-ons - stands at £75 million following the arrivals of Matty Cash for £14 million, record-buy Ollie Watkins for £28 million and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for £16 million. If respective add-ons are triggered, Villa's spend would come in at £88 million.
At his press conference on Friday, head coach Smith reiterated that Villa are far from done in the transfer window with signings expected prior to the October 5 deadline.
Here's how Villa supporters have reacted following the latest man through the door, exciting forward Traore:
Stiggy: Boom.
Ty Bracey: YOU LOVE TO SEE IT!!!!
Son Lyme: Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition.
Amo Cartwright: Make waves. Mid-table for Aston Villa.
Garin Williams: Go on the lads!!!!
Scott Leach: Very happy with this! Welcome!
Aaron Canham: WHAT A MORNING. Amazing signing.
Matt Clark: Niiiccccceeee!! Exciting signing UTV.
CW04: Get Rashica and our journey to Europe is almost complete!
Ben Davis: OH BERTRAND TRAOREEEEEEEE.
Dan Guest: Announce European qualification.
Harrison Price: Letsss goooo! Welcome Traore.
Simon 1518: Pace at last UTV.
James Simmonds: Excited about this one!
You can follow our dedicated Aston Villa transfer blog HERE.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Pictured: The terrifying topless clown 'tormenting neighbourhood'

A Black Country street has been gripped by the fears of a clown after residents claimed they are being terrorised by a bare-chested motorist in full circus make-up .
And police have been contacted by householders who say Bozo is in danger of making Ploverdale Crescent , Kingswinford , a no-go area .
According to residents , officers are tracing the footsteps of the rogue Big Top entertainer .
He may be armed - with a button-hole carnation that squirts water .
The bizarre spate of clown encounters is no laughing matter , say locals .
They described the confrontations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CCTV footage .
Are they scared ?
I should Coco .
On Thursday , the individual approached a young couple delivering leaflets .
At first they thought he was on his way to a children 's party .
Then the red-nosed individual `` stared out '' the 19-year-old woman before guffawing in her face .
Her companion told Black Country Live : `` He laughed like a clown . ''
The 20-year-old added : `` He stared at my girlfriend for a minute or so and started to laugh like a clown .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was on his way to a children ’ s party or something , I didn ’ t see him that clearly .
`` We tried to ignore him and carried on doing the leaflets , we tried to pay no attention to him to see if he would stop .
But as we got closer , he got in his car and opened his passenger door and asked me if I was someone he knew .
`` When I said no , he started laughing more .
It was a scary experience for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last night and spent half the time looking over my shoulder . ''
He added : `` He was about 5ft 8ins tall .
He was wearing clown face paint , false clown teeth , no top on with a black cap and joggers .
He was laughing like a clown and had knife scars on his belly . ''
At 4pm on the same day , a paperboy in nearby Water Street was so shocked he cycled into a nearby park to escape .
His mother posted on a community forum : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what had happened - and kept the call going .
`` As he approached Ploverdale , my son was hysterical .
The clown stopped by him again .
Myself and his dad ran after him , but he had gone by the time we got there .
Police have been informed . ''
Another householder posted : `` He was wearing false teeth or something like that in his mouth - scary ! ''
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police confirmed complaints had been received , but , as yet , there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been committed .
A rogue clown on the streets may be no laughing matter , but it 's not an offence .
She added : `` We received calls on Thursday about a man driving in the Kingswinford area either wearing a clown mask or with his face painted and allegedly intimidating pedestrians .
`` Officers have been attempting to identify the driver .
It is unclear at this stage whether any criminal offences have been committed . ''
Anyone who saw suspicious activity can contact the police at www.west.midlands.police.uk or by calling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A Black Country street has been gripped by the fears of a clown after residents claimed they are being terrorised by a bare-chested motorist in full circus make-up.
And police have been contacted by householders who say Bozo is in danger of making Ploverdale Crescent, Kingswinford, a no-go area.
According to residents, officers are tracing the footsteps of the rogue Big Top entertainer.
The bizarre spate of clown encounters is no laughing matter, say locals. They described the confrontations as "sinister". They have CCTV footage.
On Thursday, the individual approached a young couple delivering leaflets.
At first they thought he was on his way to a children's party. Then the red-nosed individual "stared out" the 19-year-old woman before guffawing in her face.
Her companion told Black Country Live: "He laughed like a clown."
The 20-year-old added: "He stared at my girlfriend for a minute or so and started to laugh like a clown.
"At first I just thought he was on his way to a children’s party or something, I didn’t see him that clearly.
"We tried to ignore him and carried on doing the leaflets, we tried to pay no attention to him to see if he would stop. But as we got closer, he got in his car and opened his passenger door and asked me if I was someone he knew.
"When I said no, he started laughing more. It was a scary experience for both of us. I went out last night and spent half the time looking over my shoulder."
The "victim" has provided a detailed description.
He added: "He was about 5ft 8ins tall. He was wearing clown face paint, false clown teeth, no top on with a black cap and joggers. He was laughing like a clown and had knife scars on his belly."
At 4pm on the same day, a paperboy in nearby Water Street was so shocked he cycled into a nearby park to escape.
His mother posted on a community forum: "My son phoned me to say what had happened - and kept the call going.
"As he approached Ploverdale, my son was hysterical. The clown stopped by him again. Myself and his dad ran after him, but he had gone by the time we got there. Police have been informed."
Another householder posted: "He was wearing false teeth or something like that in his mouth - scary!"
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police confirmed complaints had been received, but, as yet, there is no reason to believe a crime has been committed.
A rogue clown on the streets may be no laughing matter, but it's not an offence.
She added: "We received calls on Thursday about a man driving in the Kingswinford area either wearing a clown mask or with his face painted and allegedly intimidating pedestrians.
"Officers have been attempting to identify the driver. It is unclear at this stage whether any criminal offences have been committed."
Anyone who saw suspicious activity can contact the police at www.west.midlands.police.uk or by calling 101. Quote log 5201 of 17 September.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Mum lost baby after being told to 'walk to Tesco' before delivery

A pregnant mum whose baby died in labour following delivery failings was told to `` take a walk to Tesco '' just hours before .
Adele Thomas , 25 , was turned away from a Birth Centre in Ystrad Mynach , Glamorgan , three times while in labour in July 2018 .
It was claimed that hospital staff did n't think she was dilated enough - and on one occasion she was told to try walking to a local Tesco .
After finally being admitted on her fourth attempt , two midwives allegedly argued while her unborn baby Zak was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes , starving him of oxygen .
They then took him to a resuscitation room where , for a frantic half hour , Adele and her partner had no idea if he was alive or dead .
Zak ended up being rushed to the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport where , despite the best attempts by medics to save him , he died two days later .
However , it was n't until Adele and her partner Stephen Carter read a report into the centre 's failings , published in early 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had happened to their son while he was out of their sight .
The findings revealed that , when two doctors working nearby came to help , they discovered a feeling of 'disinterest ' and a 'lack of urgency ' in the unit .
It also revealed that the two midwives failed to properly monitor Zak 's heart rate , did not work together and had rowed before stopping Zak 's resuscitation early .
`` Initially being turned away by staff was really scary for me because I knew how far gone I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Adele , from Caerphilly .
`` And when they told me to walk to Tesco , which is a fair way , to help things progress , well , I just thought that was stupid .
`` I could barely move as it was but what choice did I have ?
I could hardly find another hospital by that point . ''
Instead , Stephen , 29 , drove Adele back home to wait until she felt she had no option but to try getting admitted once again .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her spent much of the labour out of the room , failing to offer the necessary guidance or support .
`` The attitude was very laid back , '' said Adele .
`` There was no care , I felt like I did n't matter to her . ''
She added that things became `` chaotic '' when a second midwife arrived .
`` She argued with the first midwife and handled me really roughly .
At one point she pushed my legs back so far my knees were touching my shoulders .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ today . ''
Adele said : `` She also told my mum and Stephen to shut up because her voice was 'the only one that needed to be heard . '
`` When Zak had been crowning for 35 minutes they said they wanted to cut me to help get him out .
I remember them arguing between themselves and there did n't seem to be any rush .
`` My contractions ended , but they were too late to make the cut by then so I had to use all my strength @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrived he was red in the face and completely pale from the neck down .
He looked like he was made out of porcelain . ''
Without speaking the midwives picked up the newborn by his arm and legs and left the room , leaving new parents Adele and Stephen alone and panicked .
What happened next , detailed in the later Concerns Report , made for shocking reading for Adele and Stephen .
“ The report was hard going , '' she said .
`` When the doctors got to the resuscitation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table .
The two midwives , meant to be working on him , were hugging at the back of the room .
`` In the meantime we could hear ambulance sirens coming for him , but no one would tell us what was going on .
We were going out of our minds with worry .
Paramedics continued to work on Zak as they took him to the Royal Gwent 's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit , for whose staff Stephen had nothing but praise .
`` They did everything they could for Zak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he passed away in our arms .
That was the first time we actually got to hold him . ''
One of the midwives involved in Zak 's delivery ended up taking early retirement , while the second underwent further training .
`` I still see one of them out and about - bumped into her when I was shopping in Asda once , '' said Adele .
`` It makes it very hard to get over the pain when you look across the aisle and see the one person who reminds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life .
`` When I spotted her I got so angry my legs were shaking .
And I know she saw me too , but she just walked away without a word . ''
The pair are now preparing themselves for the inquest into their son 's death , which is currently set for February 2021 .
Last year also saw Adele and Stephen take out a civil action against the birthing centre , which admitted to providing inadequate care and settled with them under the NHS Welsh Redress Scheme - a specialist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who have lost a loved one through medical negligence .
In a statement , Aneurin Bevan University Health Board said : `` This matter has been fully investigated by the Health Board and failings in care were identified .
`` The investigation findings have been shared openly with Zak ’ s parents and the health board has sincerely apologised for the failings in care .
`` Our condolences and deepest sympathy are with Zak 's parents and family . ''
Adele and Stephen are now parents to 10-month-old daughter Hallé .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Hallé , but our consultants at Llandough Hospital and the midwives in the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff provided really good care , '' said Adele .
`` If we have any more children the worry will always be there , but they 've definitely helped ease it .
`` It has taken a long time and a lot of work to deal with what happened .
`` To go into labour with a healthy baby boy , only to walk out of the hospital with nothing but the paperwork regarding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never get over .
`` I don ’ t think that grieving ever goes , but you learn to live alongside it .
`` Having Hallé has definitely helped us with that . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A pregnant mum whose baby died in labour following delivery failings was told to "take a walk to Tesco" just hours before.
Adele Thomas, 25, was turned away from a Birth Centre in Ystrad Mynach, Glamorgan, three times while in labour in July 2018.
It was claimed that hospital staff didn't think she was dilated enough - and on one occasion she was told to try walking to a local Tesco.
After finally being admitted on her fourth attempt, two midwives allegedly argued while her unborn baby Zak was trapped in the birth canal for 35 minutes, starving him of oxygen.
They then took him to a resuscitation room where, for a frantic half hour, Adele and her partner had no idea if he was alive or dead.
Zak ended up being rushed to the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport where, despite the best attempts by medics to save him, he died two days later.
However, it wasn't until Adele and her partner Stephen Carter read a report into the centre's failings, published in early 2019, that they discovered the truth about what had happened to their son while he was out of their sight.
The findings revealed that, when two doctors working nearby came to help, they discovered a feeling of 'disinterest' and a 'lack of urgency' in the unit.
(Image: (Image: Adele Thomas))
It also revealed that the two midwives failed to properly monitor Zak's heart rate, did not work together and had rowed before stopping Zak's resuscitation early.
"Initially being turned away by staff was really scary for me because I knew how far gone I was and how quick things were progressing," said Adele, from Caerphilly.
"And when they told me to walk to Tesco, which is a fair way, to help things progress, well, I just thought that was stupid.
"I could barely move as it was but what choice did I have? I could hardly find another hospital by that point."
Instead, Stephen, 29, drove Adele back home to wait until she felt she had no option but to try getting admitted once again.
But she said the midwife eventually assigned to her spent much of the labour out of the room, failing to offer the necessary guidance or support.
"The attitude was very laid back," said Adele. "There was no care, I felt like I didn't matter to her."
She added that things became "chaotic" when a second midwife arrived.
"She argued with the first midwife and handled me really roughly. At one point she pushed my legs back so far my knees were touching my shoulders.
"I still get pain from that today."
Adele said: "She also told my mum and Stephen to shut up because her voice was 'the only one that needed to be heard.'
"When Zak had been crowning for 35 minutes they said they wanted to cut me to help get him out. I remember them arguing between themselves and there didn't seem to be any rush.
"My contractions ended, but they were too late to make the cut by then so I had to use all my strength to push him out. When Zak arrived he was red in the face and completely pale from the neck down. He looked like he was made out of porcelain."
Without speaking the midwives picked up the newborn by his arm and legs and left the room, leaving new parents Adele and Stephen alone and panicked.
What happened next, detailed in the later Concerns Report, made for shocking reading for Adele and Stephen.
“The report was hard going," she said.
"When the doctors got to the resuscitation room they found Zak lying on a table. The two midwives, meant to be working on him, were hugging at the back of the room.
"In the meantime we could hear ambulance sirens coming for him, but no one would tell us what was going on. We were going out of our minds with worry.
Paramedics continued to work on Zak as they took him to the Royal Gwent's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, for whose staff Stephen had nothing but praise.
"They did everything they could for Zak," he said.
"Unfortunately, he passed away in our arms. That was the first time we actually got to hold him."
One of the midwives involved in Zak's delivery ended up taking early retirement, while the second underwent further training.
"I still see one of them out and about - bumped into her when I was shopping in Asda once," said Adele.
"It makes it very hard to get over the pain when you look across the aisle and see the one person who reminds you of the worst moment in your life.
"When I spotted her I got so angry my legs were shaking. And I know she saw me too, but she just walked away without a word."
The pair are now preparing themselves for the inquest into their son's death, which is currently set for February 2021.
Last year also saw Adele and Stephen take out a civil action against the birthing centre, which admitted to providing inadequate care and settled with them under the NHS Welsh Redress Scheme - a specialist process exclusive to Wales which helps compensate those who have lost a loved one through medical negligence.
In a statement, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board said: "This matter has been fully investigated by the Health Board and failings in care were identified.
"The investigation findings have been shared openly with Zak’s parents and the health board has sincerely apologised for the failings in care.
"Our condolences and deepest sympathy are with Zak's parents and family."
Adele and Stephen are now parents to 10-month-old daughter Hallé.
"I was worried during my whole pregnancy with Hallé, but our consultants at Llandough Hospital and the midwives in the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff provided really good care," said Adele.
"If we have any more children the worry will always be there, but they've definitely helped ease it.
"It has taken a long time and a lot of work to deal with what happened.
"To go into labour with a healthy baby boy, only to walk out of the hospital with nothing but the paperwork regarding Zak's death is something we will never get over.
"I don’t think that grieving ever goes, but you learn to live alongside it.
"Having Hallé has definitely helped us with that."


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Aston Vila transfer news and rumours LIVE

Hello and welcome to Saturday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will keep you up to @ @ @ @ @ from Villa Park on Saturday , September 19 as Dean Smith continues his work in @ @ @ @ @ Bertrand Traore was officially unveiled earlier as the £17 million arrival looks poised to feature @ @ @ @ @ opener against Sheffield United .
The Lyon capture becomes the fourth summer signing for Villa @ @ @ @ @ Cash , record-breaker Ollie Watkins and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez .
Talks , meanwhile , are @ @ @ @ @ Werder Bremen attacker Milot Rashica while there 's strong rumours from Turkey outlining how Mbwana @ @ @ @ @ .
Villa got their season underway with a win at Burton Albion in midweek , @ @ @ @ @ and Keinan Davis on target in a 3-1 victory .
Stay up to date with @ @ @ @ @ rolling live blog below ...

Hello and welcome to Sunday's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will keep you up to date with all the latest from Villa Park on Sunday, September 20 as Dean Smith continues his work in the transfer market.
Winger Bertrand Traore was officially unveiled yesterday as the £17 million arrival looks poised to feature in Monday's Premier League opener against Sheffield United.
The Lyon capture becomes the fourth summer signing for Villa following the captures of Matty Cash, record-breaker Ollie Watkins and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Talks, meanwhile, are continuing about a move for Werder Bremen attacker Milot Rashica while there's strong rumours from Turkey outlining how Mbwana Samatta is heading to Fenerbahce.
Villa got their season underway with a win at Burton Albion in midweek, with Watkins, Jack Grealish and Keinan Davis on target in a 3-1 victory.
Stay up to date with all the latest on our rolling live blog below...


birminghammail--2020-09-19--This is why county coronavirus rates dropped by nearly a third

Coronavirus cases in Worcestershire appear to have fallen week-on-week having nearly trebled the previous week .
But the county ’ s health chief has blamed problems with people getting tested .
Widespread problems with the NHS Test and Trace system across the country have led to people being unable to get tested for Covid-19 leading to a false figure for positives this week .
Worcestershire saw cases almost treble week-on-week , compared to the end of August .
But this week cases have dropped .
In Worcestershire in the week to September 14 , positive cases had fallen to 108 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7 there had been 147 cases ( cases correct as of Friday , September 18 ) .
Earlier this week , Worcestershire ’ s Director of Public Health , Dr Kathryn Cobain told the public not to be fooled by the low numbers .
Dr Cobain said : “ We should not let the current low positive figures for the county , fool us into thinking Covid-19 is on the decline .
“ The figures are not a true picture as residents with symptoms are not being tested.
” Of concern three areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases , despite a number of people having difficulty getting tests .
Wyre Forest , which includes Kidderminster , Stourport and Bewdley , saw cases rise to 19 from 15 , Worcester saw a rise from 14 to 16 and Redditch saw a rise from 12 to 14 cases .
But the highest number of cases in the week to September 14 were in Bromsgrove with 28 ( previously 33 to September 7 ) , with Wychavon , which includes Evesham , Droitwich and Pershore , recording 14 cases ( down from 40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 33 ) .
In September so far there have been 268 positive cases recorded , despite concerns over people getting tested .
There were 174 positives in August , 87 in July , and 151 in June – as the first wave of the virus began to wane .
The testing problems are not caused by a lack of testing facilities , with many appearing to be empty at times .
And four more are due to come to Worcestershire in a matter of weeks .
But due to a lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lighthouse Laboratories – centralised mega labs .
'Testing is national problem not local one' Dr Cobain said : “ Across the UK , there has been unprecedented demand for tests for Covid .
“ This is also true in Worcestershire .
As laboratories work through this demand , Worcestershire residents are struggling to book a test .
“ This is a national issue , not a local one .
The planning , booking and delivery of Covid testing happens nationally , however we are working with colleagues at a regional and local level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Availability of testing is updated online throughout the day and I would repeat my request to anyone with a symptom of Covid to keep trying to book a test .
`` I appreciate this is frustrating , but please do not give up .
If you have a symptom you must also make sure you stay indoors and away from others for 10 days from your first symptom .
“ Please do not book a test unless you have a symptom of Covid or have been told officially to book one.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms are trying to book tests the Government said .
But now new Lighthouse labs are being set up in Newport in Wales and Charnwood in Leicestershire to meet demand , with the aim of being able to process half-a-million tests by the end of October .
A Department of Health spokesman added : “ NHS Test and Trace is providing tests at an unprecedented scale – 200,000 a day on average over the last week – with the vast majority of people getting tested within six miles of their home .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent weeks and the message is clear – only people with symptoms should be requesting a test .
“ We ’ re doing everything possible to overcome this challenge– including by bringing in new labs that can process tens of thousands of tests a day , opening new test sites , and trialling new rapid tests that will give results on the spot .
“ As we expand capacity further , we will continue to workaround the clock to make sure that everyone who needs a test can get one.
” One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ONS data Covid deaths data remains low .
The Office for National Statistics , which records deaths with any mention of Covid-19 on the death certificate , said there was one death in Worcestershire in the week to September 4 .
This was of a Wychavon resident occurring in hospital , the first for four weeks .
The total number of registered coronavirus deaths in the county now stands at 530 , where Covid-19 is mentioned anywhere on the death certificate .
Of those 134 were of Bromsgrove residents , Wyre Forest has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Worcester 63 , Redditch 60 and Malvern Hills 47 .
The last Covid death recorded at a Worcestershire trust hospital was on August 26 .
The total Covid deaths in county hospitals are 307 , with 279 at Worcestershire Acute Trust hospitals and 28 at Worcestershire Health and Care Trust venues .
Deaths in Week 36 ( to September 4 ) fell below the five-year average 4 September 2020 ( Week 36 ) was 7,739 ; this was ( 1,443 fewer deaths at 7,739 ) for first time since Week 32 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Coronavirus cases in Worcestershire appear to have fallen week-on-week having nearly trebled the previous week.
But the county’s health chief has blamed problems with people getting tested.
Widespread problems with the NHS Test and Trace system across the country have led to people being unable to get tested for Covid-19 leading to a false figure for positives this week.
Worcestershire saw cases almost treble week-on-week, compared to the end of August.
But this week cases have dropped. In Worcestershire in the week to September 14, positive cases had fallen to 108, when in the week to September 7 there had been 147 cases (cases correct as of Friday, September 18).
Earlier this week, Worcestershire’s Director of Public Health, Dr Kathryn Cobain told the public not to be fooled by the low numbers. Dr Cobain said: “We should not let the current low positive figures for the county, fool us into thinking Covid-19 is on the decline.
“The figures are not a true picture as residents with symptoms are not being tested.”
Of concern three areas in the county still saw week-on-week Covid-19 cases, despite a number of people having difficulty getting tests.
Wyre Forest, which includes Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley, saw cases rise to 19 from 15, Worcester saw a rise from 14 to 16 and Redditch saw a rise from 12 to 14 cases.
But the highest number of cases in the week to September 14 were in Bromsgrove with 28 (previously 33 to September 7), with Wychavon, which includes Evesham, Droitwich and Pershore, recording 14 cases (down from 40) and Malvern Hills 12 (down from 33).
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
In September so far there have been 268 positive cases recorded,despite concerns over people getting tested. There were 174 positives in August, 87 in July, and 151 in June – as the first wave of the virus began to wane.
The testing problems are not caused by a lack of testing facilities, with many appearing to be empty at times. And four more are due to come to Worcestershire in a matter of weeks.
But due to a lack of processing capacity at the Government’s Lighthouse Laboratories – centralised mega labs.
'Testing is national problem not local one'
Dr Cobain said: “Across the UK, there has been unprecedented demand for tests for Covid.
“This is also true in Worcestershire. As laboratories work through this demand, Worcestershire residents are struggling to book a test.
“This is a national issue, not a local one. The planning, booking and delivery of Covid testing happens nationally, however we are working with colleagues at a regional and local level to try to find a local solution.
“Availability of testing is updated online throughout the day and I would repeat my request to anyone with a symptom of Covid to keep trying to book a test.
"I appreciate this is frustrating, but please do not give up. If you have a symptom you must also make sure you stay indoors and away from others for 10 days from your first symptom.
(Image: AP)
“Please do not book a test unless you have a symptom of Covid or have been told officially to book one.”
A quarter of people without any symptoms are trying to book tests the Government said. But now new Lighthouse labs are being set up in Newport in Wales and Charnwood in Leicestershire to meet demand, with the aim of being able to process half-a-million tests by the end of October.
A Department of Health spokesman added: “NHS Test and Trace is providing tests at an unprecedented scale – 200,000 a day on average over the last week – with the vast majority of people getting tested within six miles of their home.
“There has been a spike in demand in recent weeks and the message is clear – only people with symptoms should be requesting a test.
“We’re doing everything possible to overcome this challenge– including by bringing in new labs that can process tens of thousands of tests a day, opening new test sites, and trialling new rapid tests that will give results on the spot.
“As we expand capacity further, we will continue to workaround the clock to make sure that everyone who needs a test can get one.”
One death from Covid in Worcestershire in latest ONS data
Covid deaths data remains low. The Office for National Statistics, which records deaths with any mention of Covid-19 on the death certificate, said there was one death in Worcestershire in the week to September 4. This was of a Wychavon resident occurring in hospital, the first for four weeks.
The total number of registered coronavirus deaths in the county now stands at 530, where Covid-19 is mentioned anywhere on the death certificate. Of those 134 were of Bromsgrove residents, Wyre Forest has had 115 Covid deaths, Wychavon 111, Worcester 63, Redditch 60 and Malvern Hills 47.
The last Covid death recorded at a Worcestershire trust hospital was on August 26. The total Covid deaths in county hospitals are 307, with 279 at Worcestershire Acute Trust hospitals and 28 at Worcestershire Health and Care Trust venues.
Deaths in Week 36 (to September 4) fell below the five-year average 4 September 2020 (Week 36) was 7,739; this was (1,443 fewer deaths at 7,739) for first time since Week 32.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--The shocking number of shoppers entering Morrisons without a mask

It is law that all shoppers must wear a face mask inside supermarkets and stores as part of the battle against coronavirus - unless exempt .
But BirminghamLive discovered as many as HALF of people visiting one city Morrisons were NOT wearing a face covering - hours after the city was placed in lockdown .
We made a lunchtime visit to the Hagley Road store on Tuesday ( September 15 ) after Birmingham along with Sandwell and Solihull brought in new restrictions to curb rising Covid rates .
Over the course of one hour we saw 111 shoppers were not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we counted entering the busy store .
A member of staff standing outside did not appear to challenge customers without a face covering - but was on hand to give out masks if asked .
There were also signs asking shoppers to be considerate of others while in the store .
Morrisons was approached for comment , but has not yet responded .
Most supermarkets including Morrisons have said that although the government has made it compulsory to wear masks , they would not be policing customers .
People with a physical or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are exempt from wearing a face covering in supermarkets .
However , if you do not have a valid exemption , police can fine you up to £100 .
Officers have been told they can accept `` reasonable excuses '' .
Birmingham 's new lockdown restrictions were brought in after the rate of infection has more than doubled in the city in a week to 90.3 cases per 100,000 .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said a `` national lockdown was the last line of defence '' - if people do not follow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down .
Yesterday Wolverhampton was added to the West Midlands lockdown .
The new restrictions will come into force on Tuesday ( September 22 ) .
The general R rate in the country has risen to between 1.1 to 1.4 from 1.0 to 1.2 last week .
Why are face masks so important in fighting coronavirus ?
The government websites states : `` Face coverings are largely intended to protect others , not the wearer , against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth , which are the main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ causes coronavirus infection ( COVID-19 ) . ''
All face coverings must cover the wearer 's nose and mouth to be effective .
What is the general guidance for supermarkets ?
The government website states : `` Ask your customers to wear face coverings in any indoor space or where required to do so by law .
That is especially important if your customers are likely to be around people they do not normally meet .
Some exemptions apply . ''
Why do n't supermarkets have to challenge people not wearing face masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where face coverings are required , should take reasonable steps to promote compliance with the law . ''
This means they are not responsible for enforcement but can promote the use of face coverings .
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering ?
In England , you must wear a face covering in the following indoor settings ( a list of examples for each is included in the brackets ) : This includes ( but is not limited to ) : • children under the age of 11 ( Public Health England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the age of 3 for health and safety reasons ) • people who can not put on , wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment , or disability • employees of indoor settings ( or people acting on their behalf , such as someone leading part of a prayer service ) or transport workers - although employers may consider their use where appropriate and where other mitigations are not in place , in line with COVID-19 Secure guidelines • police officers and other emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with their ability to serve the public • where putting on , wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress • if you are speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading , clear sound or facial expressions to communicate • to avoid harm or injury , or the risk of harm or injury , to yourself or others - including if it would negatively impact on your ability to exercise or participate in a strenuous activity

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
It is law that all shoppers must wear a face mask inside supermarkets and stores as part of the battle against coronavirus - unless exempt.
But BirminghamLive discovered as many as HALF of people visiting one city Morrisons were NOT wearing a face covering - hours after the city was placed in lockdown.
We made a lunchtime visit to the Hagley Road store on Tuesday (September 15) after Birmingham along with Sandwell and Solihull brought in new restrictions to curb rising Covid rates.
Over the course of one hour we saw 111 shoppers were not wearing a mask from more than 220 we counted entering the busy store.
A member of staff standing outside did not appear to challenge customers without a face covering - but was on hand to give out masks if asked.
There were also signs asking shoppers to be considerate of others while in the store.
Morrisons was approached for comment, but has not yet responded.
Most supermarkets including Morrisons have said that although the government has made it compulsory to wear masks, they would not be policing customers.
People with a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability are exempt from wearing a face covering in supermarkets.
However, if you do not have a valid exemption, police can fine you up to £100. Officers have been told they can accept "reasonable excuses".
Birmingham's new lockdown restrictions were brought in after the rate of infection has more than doubled in the city in a week to 90.3 cases per 100,000.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said a "national lockdown was the last line of defence" - if people do not follow the rules to help bring the infection rate down.
Yesterday Wolverhampton was added to the West Midlands lockdown. The new restrictions will come into force on Tuesday (September 22).
The general R rate in the country has risen to between 1.1 to 1.4 from 1.0 to 1.2 last week.
Why are face masks so important in fighting coronavirus?
The government websites states: "Face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus that causes coronavirus infection (COVID-19)."
All face coverings must cover the wearer's nose and mouth to be effective.
What is the general guidance for supermarkets?
The government website states: " Ask your customers to wear face coverings in any indoor space or where required to do so by law. That is especially important if your customers are likely to be around people they do not normally meet. Some exemptions apply."
Why don't supermarkets have to challenge people not wearing face masks?
The government states that "premises where face coverings are required, should take reasonable steps to promote compliance with the law."
This means they are not responsible for enforcement but can promote the use of face coverings.
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering?
In England, you must wear a face covering in the following indoor settings (a list of examples for each is included in the brackets):
This includes (but is not limited to):


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Traore reveals 'big part' John Terry had with Aston Villa transfer

New signing Bertrand Traore has revealed how a conversation with former Chelsea teammate John Terry did the trick to convince him to sign for Aston Villa .
Traore was snapped up for Chelsea 's academy from Auxerre in France back in 2010 after reportedly turning down Manchester United .
The attacker made his first-team breakthrough at Stamford Bridge five years later and featured 16 times in 2015/16 , scoring four times .
In his Villa interview today , Traore has detailed how ex-Chelsea captain Terry had a big impact on him making the move to Villa Park .
`` He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Traore said of Terry 's transfer involvement .
`` He had a big part of this move to Villa .
`` I knew John as a Chelsea legend when I was a kid from the academy .
It 's always something special when he gives you advice .
Traore , meanwhile , gave this description of himself to Villa supporters : `` I 'm a striker , an attacking player , I like to take risks , create and I 'm coming here to help the team score some goals and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a competitor I always want to play , I always want to win .
I 'm lucky it 's just two days away , I hope I 'm involved , I 'm ready for this game .
`` My ambitions are similar to the club .
I will do my best for the team .
The aim this year is to stay up as quick as possible because last year was tight . ''
The ex-Ajax man added : `` I ’ m excited to be back ( in England ) .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League .
I had to follow my own way as well and gain some more experience .
I think it is the right time to come back .
“ I think I ’ m coming back as a better player , with more experience .
And this is the right place for me to come back .
It ’ s good . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
New signing Bertrand Traore has revealed how a conversation with former Chelsea teammate John Terry did the trick to convince him to sign for Aston Villa.
Traore was snapped up for Chelsea's academy from Auxerre in France back in 2010 after reportedly turning down Manchester United.
The attacker made his first-team breakthrough at Stamford Bridge five years later and featured 16 times in 2015/16, scoring four times.
In his Villa interview today, Traore has detailed how ex-Chelsea captain Terry had a big impact on him making the move to Villa Park.
"He had some really good things to say," Traore said of Terry's transfer involvement. "He had a big part of this move to Villa.
"I knew John as a Chelsea legend when I was a kid from the academy. It's always something special when he gives you advice.
Traore, meanwhile, gave this description of himself to Villa supporters: "I'm a striker, an attacking player, I like to take risks, create and I'm coming here to help the team score some goals and make people score goals.
"As a competitor I always want to play, I always want to win. I'm lucky it's just two days away, I hope I'm involved, I'm ready for this game.
"My ambitions are similar to the club. I will do my best for the team. The aim this year is to stay up as quick as possible because last year was tight."
The ex-Ajax man added: "I’m excited to be back (in England). "I always wanted to come back to the Premier League. I had to follow my own way as well and gain some more experience. I think it is the right time to come back.
“I think I’m coming back as a better player, with more experience. And this is the right place for me to come back. It’s good."


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Boris Johnson warns UK faces six months of Covid restrictions

Boris Johnson has warned the UK was 'seeing a second wave coming in ' as he contemplated 'on-off ' restrictions until spring to combat rising Covid cases .
The Prime Minister said it was 'inevitable ' that a second wave would hit the UK in the coming weeks and months .
Birmingham , Sandwell and Solihull have already been hit with new lockdown restrictions and yesterday it was announced Wolverhampton would face similar measures from Tuesday .
He is now looking at six months of 'on-off ' nationwide restrictions amid concerns that the public is flouting rules on social gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach to get the country through winter would see it alternate periods of stricter measures with intervals of relaxation .
Fortnight-long 'circuit breakers ' would see tough restrictions introduced temporarily across the whole country to suppress the virus , before they would be lifted for a time and then re-introduced if necessary .
Measures could include bans on social contact between households , shutting down hospitality and leisure venues such as bars and restaurants , or restricting their opening hours .
Downing Street was spooked by warnings from the Government 's Joint Biosecurity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks behind Spain , which recorded 239 deaths on Thursday .
But the move to sink Britain back into lockdown one region at a time has led to protests from the Treasury , as allies of Chancellor Rishi Sunak argue that a two-week 'circuit breaker ' would be 'far better ' than being forced into a full lockdown by October .
Meanwhile , SAGE adviser Professor Graham Medley has argued for a half-term shutdown of leisure and hospitality , claiming that 'short , planned periods of reducing R below one can greatly reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdowns ' .
SAGE adviser Professor Susan Michie warned ministers not to repeat the mistake of the March lockdown in implementing measures to slowly , as she proposed closing pubs , bars and restaurants , slashing the number of households meeting , work from home if possible and an extension of furlough until 2021 .
She told The Daily Telegraph : `` We need a stitch in time .
We need to learn the lessons of the spring .
Every day 's delay to a step change in measures to restrict transmission when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in terms of health and lives in the short term and the economy in the long term . ''
Another SAGE adviser called for longer and quicker lockdowns , saying it was 'the only thing that we really know ' that works .
Professor Neil Ferguson , the Government 's original lockdown architect , recommended 'rolling back ' the relaxation measures by 'reducing contact rates between people ' amid rising cases .
The Imperial College London scientist told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme today : `` Right now we 're at about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing in late February , if we leave it at another two to four weeks we will be back at levels we were seeing more like mid March .
That 's going to clearly cause deaths .
`` I think some additional measures are likely to be needed sooner rather than later , the timing of any more intensive policy , temporary policy , is open to question . ''
Nightingale hospitals were ordered to be ready to open again within 48 hours - and another swathe of England was plunged into lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed the temporary hospital in Birmingham 's NEC arena has been placed on standby so it can start treating patients within two to three days .
The dramatic move came as the UK 's daily infections hit a four-month high of 4,322 , with figures showing the outbreak has nearly doubled in size in a week and the R number is potentially as high as 1.4 .
Parts of England have been forced back into lockdown , with a ban on socialising outside of households across Birmingham , Solihull and Sandwell .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now under under local restrictions .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Boris Johnson has warned the UK was 'seeing a second wave coming in' as he contemplated 'on-off' restrictions until spring to combat rising Covid cases.
The Prime Minister said it was 'inevitable' that a second wave would hit the UK in the coming weeks and months.
Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull have already been hit with new lockdown restrictions and yesterday it was announced Wolverhampton would face similar measures from Tuesday.
He is now looking at six months of 'on-off' nationwide restrictions amid concerns that the public is flouting rules on social gatherings, writes Mail Online.
The new approach to get the country through winter would see it alternate periods of stricter measures with intervals of relaxation.
(Image: PA)
Fortnight-long 'circuit breakers' would see tough restrictions introduced temporarily across the whole country to suppress the virus, before they would be lifted for a time and then re-introduced if necessary.
Measures could include bans on social contact between households, shutting down hospitality and leisure venues such as bars and restaurants, or restricting their opening hours.
Downing Street was spooked by warnings from the Government's Joint Biosecurity Centre that the UK is now six weeks behind Spain, which recorded 239 deaths on Thursday.
But the move to sink Britain back into lockdown one region at a time has led to protests from the Treasury, as allies of Chancellor Rishi Sunak argue that a two-week 'circuit breaker' would be 'far better' than being forced into a full lockdown by October.
Meanwhile, SAGE adviser Professor Graham Medley has argued for a half-term shutdown of leisure and hospitality, claiming that 'short, planned periods of reducing R below one can greatly reduce the risk of longer, unplanned emergency lockdowns'.
SAGE adviser Professor Susan Michie warned ministers not to repeat the mistake of the March lockdown in implementing measures to slowly, as she proposed closing pubs, bars and restaurants, slashing the number of households meeting, work from home if possible and an extension of furlough until 2021.
She told The Daily Telegraph: "We need a stitch in time. We need to learn the lessons of the spring. Every day's delay to a step change in measures to restrict transmission when it is increasing exponentially will be expensive in terms of health and lives in the short term and the economy in the long term."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Another SAGE adviser called for longer and quicker lockdowns, saying it was 'the only thing that we really know' that works.
Professor Neil Ferguson, the Government's original lockdown architect, recommended 'rolling back' the relaxation measures by 'reducing contact rates between people' amid rising cases.
The Imperial College London scientist told BBC Radio 4's Today programme today: "Right now we're at about the levels of infections that we were seeing in late February, if we leave it at another two to four weeks we will be back at levels we were seeing more like mid March. That's going to clearly cause deaths.
"I think some additional measures are likely to be needed sooner rather than later, the timing of any more intensive policy, temporary policy, is open to question."
(Image: PA)
Nightingale hospitals were ordered to be ready to open again within 48 hours - and another swathe of England was plunged into lockdown, including Wolverhampton.
Health bosses have revealed the temporary hospital in Birmingham's NEC arena has been placed on standby so it can start treating patients within two to three days.
The dramatic move came as the UK's daily infections hit a four-month high of 4,322, with figures showing the outbreak has nearly doubled in size in a week and the R number is potentially as high as 1.4.
Parts of England have been forced back into lockdown, with a ban on socialising outside of households across Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell.
A total of around 13 million people are now under under local restrictions.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--'Fame can wait but Covid won’t' - Jacqui Smith in Strictly backlash

Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has been slammed by the public after standing down from key hospital role to take part in Strictly Come Dancing .
The 57-year-old chairs University Hospitals Birmingham , which runs the Queen Elizabeth , Good Hope , Heartlands and Solihull hospitals .
But the former MP for Redditch told BirminghamLive said she was stepping back from October to focus on the BBC show - and would be 'on the end of a laptop and phone ' .
She said : `` From October I am taking a step back .
`` I talked to hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said yes and he was happy for me to go ahead .
The response from staff has been brilliant , they are really excited . ''
But the reaction has n't been quite as positive on Twitter with some people angry at the news .
Nxx tweeted : `` Glad to see you put your vocation first in such a difficult time . ''
Kappa Dulay posted : `` Jacqui , you must get your priorities right , fame can wait but Covid won ’ t . ''
David Carter said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a once in a century pandemic .
Have fun won ’ t you . ''
Froggitt tweeted : `` Not as if there is anything important going on at present . ''
Bull********Boris tweeted : `` Good to see that she 's got her priorities right .
Time to be removed . ''
And TIMO-3 said : `` I don ’ t think she ’ s thought it thru .
The media backlash will be horrendous . ''
The former MP confirmed she would not be drawing her salary while absent from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dr Rosser , CEO , of the trust , said : “ We are really excited that Jacqui has agreed to be in this year ’ s Strictly Come Dancing .
`` To have one of our own UHB colleagues starring in one of the most-loved family shows on television is fantastic .
We wish her and whoever is lucky enough to be her partner the very , very best of luck .
“ While Jacqui will still be available for advice , she will take unpaid leave from October 1 while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harry Reilly will step in during Jacqui ’ s absence . ''
The hospitals are currently experiencing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases , with more than 100 coronavirus patients in the QE , Heartlands and Good Hope .
Mr Rosser , speaking at a regional briefing ( Friday ) , said : `` We have put the hospital pretty much back on same emergency footing as we had back in March .
`` We hold internal crisis meetings daily with health partners to ensure we are on top of the multitude of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem .
`` But the levels of anxiety among our staff , fearing they might go back to what we saw in April , are very worrying .
`` I have never known a clinical team as stressed and as apprehensive as they are at the moment .
`` People I have worked alongside for 25 years are saying to me I am not sure I can do this again . ''
Smith became chair of the hospitals ' trust in December 2013 , on an annual salary of £50,000 .
She also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the research partnership with the University of Birmingham ; and is chair of Sandwell Children ’ s Trust .
She is a political commentator and has a podast , called For the Many , that she presents with broadcaster Iain Dale .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has been slammed by the public after standing down from key hospital role to take part in Strictly Come Dancing.
The 57-year-old chairs University Hospitals Birmingham, which runs the Queen Elizabeth, Good Hope, Heartlands and Solihull hospitals.
But the former MP for Redditch told BirminghamLive said she was stepping back from October to focus on the BBC show - and would be 'on the end of a laptop and phone'.
She said: "From October I am taking a step back.
"I talked to hospitals' chief executive Dave Rosser before I said yes and he was happy for me to go ahead. The response from staff has been brilliant, they are really excited."
But the reaction hasn't been quite as positive on Twitter with some people angry at the news.
Nxx tweeted: "Glad to see you put your vocation first in such a difficult time."
Kappa Dulay posted: "Jacqui , you must get your priorities right, fame can wait but Covid won’t."
David Carter said: "Thanks Jackie, it’s only a once in a century pandemic. Have fun won’t you."
Froggitt tweeted: "Not as if there is anything important going on at present."
Eddie Crouch said: "Not good timing."
Bull********Boris tweeted: "Good to see that she's got her priorities right. Time to be removed."
And TIMO-3 said: "I don’t think she’s thought it thru. The media backlash will be horrendous."
The former MP confirmed she would not be drawing her salary while absent from the Trust, which has backed her decision.
(Image: BBC)
Dr Rosser, CEO, of the trust, said: “We are really excited that Jacqui has agreed to be in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
"To have one of our own UHB colleagues starring in one of the most-loved family shows on television is fantastic. We wish her and whoever is lucky enough to be her partner the very, very best of luck.
“While Jacqui will still be available for advice, she will take unpaid leave from October 1 while she remains in Strictly. Deputy Chair Harry Reilly will step in during Jacqui’s absence."
The hospitals are currently experiencing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases, with more than 100 coronavirus patients in the QE, Heartlands and Good Hope.
Fifteen patients are critically ill on life support.
Mr Rosser, speaking at a regional briefing (Friday), said: "We have put the hospital pretty much back on same emergency footing as we had back in March.
"We hold internal crisis meetings daily with health partners to ensure we are on top of the multitude of strands of getting on top of this problem.
"But the levels of anxiety among our staff, fearing they might go back to what we saw in April, are very worrying.
"I have never known a clinical team as stressed and as apprehensive as they are at the moment.
"People I have worked alongside for 25 years are saying to me I am not sure I can do this again."
Smith became chair of the hospitals' trust in December 2013, on an annual salary of £50,000.
She also chairs Birmingham Health Partners, which coordinates the research partnership with the University of Birmingham; and is chair of Sandwell Children’s Trust.
She is a political commentator and has a podast, called For the Many, that she presents with broadcaster Iain Dale.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Breaking: Aston Villa announce exciting Bertrand Traore transfer

Aston Villa have announced summer signing number four following the arrival of Bertrand Traore from Lyon .
The 25-year-old as officially put pen to paper and has signed for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £17 million .
Head coach Dean Smith said of his latest capture : `` We ’ re delighted that Bertrand has chosen to come to Villa .
He ’ s a player with immense talent who will really enhance our attacking options . ''
The Burkino Faso international will give Villa much-needed pace on the flanks while he possesses a devastating left foot and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up front , explained how the likes of John Terry , Anwar El Ghazi and Marvelous Nakamba all helped him commit to Villa having played with them at Chelsea , Ajax and Vitesse Arnhem respectively .
`` I ’ m very happy to join Aston Villa , ” he said .
`` I ’ m happy to be here .
I played with JT at Chelsea , I spoke to him .
`` I spoke to the manager , spoke with the sporting director ( Johan Lange ) as well and some players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and El Ghazi .
`` I spoke to Nakamba , I talked to him a little bit about the club .
Many things made me take the decision to come here .
I ’ m happy . ''
Traore has Champions League pedigree and , over the last three season at Lyon , has scored 33 times and registered 17 assists from 126 apperances .
Villa , meanwhile , are still awaiting international clearance for Traore which is fully expected to go through .
It 's not yet known if the winger will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa have announced summer signing number four following the arrival of Bertrand Traore from Lyon.
The 25-year-old as officially put pen to paper and has signed for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £17 million.
Head coach Dean Smith said of his latest capture: "We’re delighted that Bertrand has chosen to come to Villa. He’s a player with immense talent who will really enhance our attacking options."
The Burkino Faso international will give Villa much-needed pace on the flanks while he possesses a devastating left foot and trickery.
Traore, who can play up front, explained how the likes of John Terry, Anwar El Ghazi and Marvelous Nakamba all helped him commit to Villa having played with them at Chelsea, Ajax and Vitesse Arnhem respectively.
"I’m very happy to join Aston Villa,” he said. "I’m happy to be here. I played with JT at Chelsea, I spoke to him. "I spoke to the manager, spoke with the sporting director (Johan Lange) as well and some players I used to play with, Nakamba and El Ghazi.
"I spoke to Nakamba, I talked to him a little bit about the club. Many things made me take the decision to come here. I’m happy."
Traore has Champions League pedigree and, over the last three season at Lyon, has scored 33 times and registered 17 assists from 126 apperances.
Villa, meanwhile, are still awaiting international clearance for Traore which is fully expected to go through. It's not yet known if the winger will feature for Villa against Sheffield United on Monday.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Jack Grealish provides mouthwatering Ollie Watkins striker verdict

Captain Jack Grealish has spoken of his admiration of £33 million club-record signing Ollie Watkins - and backs Villa 's man to make a big impression .
The 24-year-old striker has bagged two from two prior to Villa 's Premier League curtain-raiser against Sheffield United .
Last season 's Championship player of the year is making the step up to the top-flight for the first time - but Grealish believes he 'll be in the goals once again .
`` He deserves that price tag for a reason , '' Grealish said of Villa 's record buy .
`` You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stats from last season .
We 've been working with him now and I 'm not even just saying that just because people want to hear it .
It 's genuine .
`` I 've had training sessions , finishing sessions with him and there 's no surprise to me why he ended up getting so many goals last season . ''
Grealish added : `` I like to have a good bond with them , the strikers who play in front of me .
When I first came into the first-team I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Benteke , we loved playing together and just bounced off each other .
`` I feel like I 've had it with a few strikers actually and I had it with Wesley .
You probably would n't believe it because he 's Brazilian and do n't speak English but , off the pitch , me and Wesley had a good relationship .
That showed when we linked up last season ; the Burnley game when he got injured , I set his goal up .
I 'm sure I 'll have that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days . ''
As for Villa 's No.10 , Grealish revealed what head coach Dean Smith 's looking for this season when describing the signing of energetic full-back Matty Cash .
`` I 've played against Matty a few times , '' he said .
`` When I played against him he was a winger .
I know it 's only recently in the last year or two that he 's moved back into defence .
`` He 's so athletic and that 's something we probably lacked last year , legs around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager 's now tried to install to us .
`` Matty and Ollie have been brilliant in training and they 're good crack in the changing room . ''
As for Grealish and Villa 's hopes for the season , the skipper outlined how the club can aim as high as eighth if everything goes to plan .
`` We haven ’ t sat down as a group yet but I am sure we will do that before the season starts and set out our goals , '' Grealish explained .
`` Everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done last season .
At the start of last year we were probably aiming to finish between 12th and 14th but it does not always work out as you plan .
`` Hopefully we can build on that this season .
With the squad we have I believe we can aim high .
`` I think we have to be looking between 12th and eighth .
You have to be realistic .
You are not going to from finishing 17th one season and then going to fifth or sixth the next , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think if we could finish anywhere between eighth and 12th that would be brilliant . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Captain Jack Grealish has spoken of his admiration of £33 million club-record signing Ollie Watkins - and backs Villa's man to make a big impression.
The 24-year-old striker has bagged two from two prior to Villa's Premier League curtain-raiser against Sheffield United. Last season's Championship player of the year is making the step up to the top-flight for the first time - but Grealish believes he'll be in the goals once again.
"He deserves that price tag for a reason," Grealish said of Villa's record buy. "You've only got to look at his stats from last season. We've been working with him now and I'm not even just saying that just because people want to hear it. It's genuine.
"I've had training sessions, finishing sessions with him and there's no surprise to me why he ended up getting so many goals last season."
Grealish added: "I like to have a good bond with them, the strikers who play in front of me. When I first came into the first-team I had a great bond with (Christian) Benteke, we loved playing together and just bounced off each other.
"I feel like I've had it with a few strikers actually and I had it with Wesley. You probably wouldn't believe it because he's Brazilian and don't speak English but, off the pitch, me and Wesley had a good relationship. That showed when we linked up last season; the Burnley game when he got injured, I set his goal up. I'm sure I'll have that with Ollie based on the last few days."
As for Villa's No.10, Grealish revealed what head coach Dean Smith's looking for this season when describing the signing of energetic full-back Matty Cash.
"I've played against Matty a few times," he said. "When I played against him he was a winger. I know it's only recently in the last year or two that he's moved back into defence.
"He's so athletic and that's something we probably lacked last year, legs around the pitch. That's what the manager's now tried to install to us.
"Matty and Ollie have been brilliant in training and they're good crack in the changing room."
As for Grealish and Villa's hopes for the season, the skipper outlined how the club can aim as high as eighth if everything goes to plan.
"We haven’t sat down as a group yet but I am sure we will do that before the season starts and set out our goals," Grealish explained.
"Everyone wants to build on what we have done last season. At the start of last year we were probably aiming to finish between 12th and 14th but it does not always work out as you plan.
"Hopefully we can build on that this season. With the squad we have I believe we can aim high.
"I think we have to be looking between 12th and eighth. You have to be realistic. You are not going to from finishing 17th one season and then going to fifth or sixth the next, as nice as that would be.
"I think if we could finish anywhere between eighth and 12th that would be brilliant."


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Cadbury's new announcement has made Brummies absolutely furious

Many Brummies are very proud that Cadbury was a company created in the city .
The famous chocolate maker started off as a humble shop in Bull Street before growing grew into a monolith which resulted in Bournville being created .
But a recent announcement made by Cadbury has angered many locals - to the point where some have said they wo n't be buying the chocolate anymore .
Cadbury announced on its social media that it was teaming up with Liverpool Football Club and releasing a new Liverpool-themed Dairy Milk bar in limited availbility .
The tweet said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partnership with @ LFC supporting young people & families in the local community .
We ’ re also gifting 50k limited edition Champions bars to lucky Reds fans '' .
The three-year-deal will see the company supporting LFC Foundation ’ s Virtual Employability Programme – raising money to assist with the continued operation of the initiative through the sale of limited edition LFC champions Dairy Milk bars .
LFC Foundation ’ s employability support service was created in response to the Covid-19 outbreak and aims to help people across Liverpool who have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the impact of the pandemic .
But many Brummies say they feel Cadbury is `` forgetting its roots '' and `` has scored an own goal '' .
One Birmingham Twitter user , @ Duffers100 , said : `` You should be ashamed @ CadburyUK , the people of Birmingham have been calling out for a tie up with local clubs and the local community of your workers for years and you chose to ignore them and your first partnership is with Liverpool . ''
Another user , @ clairevbrett , also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think you 've forgotten your roots and heritage .
There 's a team just down the road from Bournville that you could have worked more closely with who do fantastic work in the community '' .
@ coop8517 added : `` You ’ re forgetting your roots and your actual community .
Shocking , all to ride the coat tails for a bit of fame '' and @ bluescollective said : `` Living local to Bournville and having grandkids that go the local Bournville School .
All I can say is you 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A statement from Cadbury said : `` We pride ourselves on being a brand at the heart of the UK and we want our partnerships to reflect that .
We are looking to connect as many fans as possible across the country with the clubs and communities they love , up and down the footballing pyramid .
`` Over the past few weeks , we have announced a number of club partnerships , but , there are plenty more in the pipeline . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Many Brummies are very proud that Cadbury was a company created in the city.
The famous chocolate maker started off as a humble shop in Bull Street before growing grew into a monolith which resulted in Bournville being created.
But a recent announcement made by Cadbury has angered many locals - to the point where some have said they won't be buying the chocolate anymore.
Cadbury announced on its social media that it was teaming up with Liverpool Football Club and releasing a new Liverpool-themed Dairy Milk bar in limited availbility.
The tweet said: "We're proud to announce our partnership with @LFC supporting young people & families in the local community. We’re also gifting 50k limited edition Champions bars to lucky Reds fans".
The three-year-deal will see the company supporting LFC Foundation’s Virtual Employability Programme – raising money to assist with the continued operation of the initiative through the sale of limited edition LFC champions Dairy Milk bars.
LFC Foundation’s employability support service was created in response to the Covid-19 outbreak and aims to help people across Liverpool who have been made redundant or are at risk due to the impact of the pandemic.
But many Brummies say they feel Cadbury is "forgetting its roots" and "has scored an own goal".
One Birmingham Twitter user, @Duffers100, said: "You should be ashamed @CadburyUK , the people of Birmingham have been calling out for a tie up with local clubs and the local community of your workers for years and you chose to ignore them and your first partnership is with Liverpool."
Another user, @clairevbrett, also wrote: "Poor show @CadburyUK think you've forgotten your roots and heritage. There's a team just down the road from Bournville that you could have worked more closely with who do fantastic work in the community".
@coop8517 added: "You’re forgetting your roots and your actual community. Shocking, all to ride the coat tails for a bit of fame" and @bluescollective said: "Living local to Bournville and having grandkids that go the local Bournville School. All I can say is you've let yourselves down with this".
A statement from Cadbury said: "We pride ourselves on being a brand at the heart of the UK and we want our partnerships to reflect that. We are looking to connect as many fans as possible across the country with the clubs and communities they love, up and down the footballing pyramid.
"Over the past few weeks, we have announced a number of club partnerships, but, there are plenty more in the pipeline."


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Aston Villa 'reach agreement with Fenerbahce' for Mbwana Samatta

Aston Villa striker Mbwana Ally Samatta has 'agreed to join Fenerbahce ' with Turkish reports claiming the Tanzanian is in line to make his debut as early as next week .
Takvim suggest a deal between Villa and Fener has been reached over a season-long loan with an option to buy in place for next summer .
The 27-year-old has scored twice in 16 appearances for Villa following his £8.5 million arrival from Racing Club Genk back in January .
According to the report today , Villa have reportedly accepted Fenerbahce 's loan offer and , with the transfer negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play in their derby match against Galatasaray next weekend .
Takvim remains one of Turkey 's biggest newspapers and their headline regarding Samatta read today : 'Fenerbahce detonates the bomb , agreement was reached on every issue . '
As for Samatta , on Thursday we learned of West Bromwich Albion 's late interest as they looked to hijack Fenerbahce 's move for Villa 's striker .
The forward remained an unused sub for Villa 's win over Burton Albion in midweek with record-buy Ollie Watkins and Keinan Davis both getting minutes - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-1 victory .
With Villa smashing their club record to get Watkins through the door , Samatta 's immediate future at Villa Park looks to be elsewhere .
The ex-Genk man signed a four-and-a-half year contract back in Janaury as he came in to replace Wesley .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Aston Villa striker Mbwana Ally Samatta has 'agreed to join Fenerbahce' with Turkish reports claiming the Tanzanian is in line to make his debut as early as next week.
Takvim suggest a deal between Villa and Fener has been reached over a season-long loan with an option to buy in place for next summer. The 27-year-old has scored twice in 16 appearances for Villa following his £8.5 million arrival from Racing Club Genk back in January.
According to the report today, Villa have reportedly accepted Fenerbahce's loan offer and, with the transfer negotiations moving quickly, Samatta is expected to play in their derby match against Galatasaray next weekend.
Takvim remains one of Turkey's biggest newspapers and their headline regarding Samatta read today: 'Fenerbahce detonates the bomb, agreement was reached on every issue.'
As for Samatta, on Thursday we learned of West Bromwich Albion's late interest as they looked to hijack Fenerbahce's move for Villa's striker. The forward remained an unused sub for Villa's win over Burton Albion in midweek with record-buy Ollie Watkins and Keinan Davis both getting minutes - and a goal each - in the 3-1 victory.
With Villa smashing their club record to get Watkins through the door, Samatta's immediate future at Villa Park looks to be elsewhere. The ex-Genk man signed a four-and-a-half year contract back in Janaury as he came in to replace Wesley.


birminghammail--2020-09-19--Dean Smith provides key Wesley update as Villa look to strengthen

Dean Smith has confirmed Aston Villa need to add more firepower knowing last summer 's £22 million signing Wesley is out of action until the New Year .
The head coach has provided a diagnosis on the Brazilian following that devastating anterior cruciate ligament tear sustained by Burnley 's Ben Mee was back on January 1 .
The 23-year-old had scored five Premier League goals in 21 appearances prior to injury with Villa 's form taking a nosedive soon after as the 6ft 3in No.9 was ruled out for the remainder of 2019/20 .
Wesley flew back to Brazil for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final game of last season at West Ham .
The forward , though , jetted back to South America once more before returning to continue his recovery at Bodymoor Heath last weekend .
`` He is back now with us but is not back training in any shape or form , '' Smith explained .
`` The swelling has gone down on his knee now but it was quite a bad injury he suffered .
`` We believed it was going to be a 12-month injury and nothing has told us otherwise yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it and hopefully he will be back as soon as possible . ''
Villa , of course , signed Mbwana Samatta as Wesley 's replacement back in January .
The Tanzanian , though , appears to be heading for the exit door with Fenerbahce in Turkey looking to take the 27-year-old on loan .
West Bromwich Albion have been touted with an interest , too .
If a deal to move Samatta out does suffice it 'll leave Villa with just £33 million record signing Ollie Watkins and Keinan Davis as options up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirming the arrival of winger Bertrand Traore in the coming days .
Smith , meanwhile , refused to rule out adding another striker to his ranks .
`` We 're going to look at all options , '' Smith said , when asked about bringing in a new striker .
`` There 's another two weeks until the window does close .
We 're happy with what we 've done so far but we 're always trying to bring others in . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Dean Smith has confirmed Aston Villa need to add more firepower knowing last summer's £22 million signing Wesley is out of action until the New Year.
The head coach has provided a diagnosis on the Brazilian following that devastating anterior cruciate ligament tear sustained by Burnley's Ben Mee was back on January 1.
The 23-year-old had scored five Premier League goals in 21 appearances prior to injury with Villa's form taking a nosedive soon after as the 6ft 3in No.9 was ruled out for the remainder of 2019/20.
Wesley flew back to Brazil for rehabilitation but did return for Villa's final game of last season at West Ham. The forward, though, jetted back to South America once more before returning to continue his recovery at Bodymoor Heath last weekend.
"He is back now with us but is not back training in any shape or form," Smith explained. "The swelling has gone down on his knee now but it was quite a bad injury he suffered.
"We believed it was going to be a 12-month injury and nothing has told us otherwise yet. He is getting full range into it and hopefully he will be back as soon as possible."
Villa, of course, signed Mbwana Samatta as Wesley's replacement back in January. The Tanzanian, though, appears to be heading for the exit door with Fenerbahce in Turkey looking to take the 27-year-old on loan. West Bromwich Albion have been touted with an interest, too.
If a deal to move Samatta out does suffice it'll leave Villa with just £33 million record signing Ollie Watkins and Keinan Davis as options up front. The club are hopeful of confirming the arrival of winger Bertrand Traore in the coming days. Smith, meanwhile, refused to rule out adding another striker to his ranks.
"We're going to look at all options," Smith said, when asked about bringing in a new striker. "There's another two weeks until the window does close. We're happy with what we've done so far but we're always trying to bring others in."