birminghammail--2020-02-23--M6 closed in both directions near Walsall after lorry crash - live updates

A collision involving two heavy goods vehicles has forced the closure of the M6 .
Emergency services were called to the scene in the early hours of this morning ( Sunday , February 23 ) .
Two HGVs collided with each other at junction 10 near Walsall leaving both the northbound and southbound directions blocked .
A Central Motorway Police Group spokesman confirmed no injuries had been reported following the collision .
`` Owing to a collision between two heavy goods vehicles at junction 10 there will be delays in the area throughout the day , please find an alternative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Highways England tweeted : `` HGV and shed load require recovery , and diesel spillage will then need to be treated , along with barrier repairs . ''
Motorists are advised to use the M6 Toll while the incident is dealt with .
Each day BirminghamLive journalists bring you the latest news on the roads and railways across Birmingham and the West Midlands and further afield to help keep you on the move .
For the very latest updates on roads including the M6 , M42 , M5 and more , visit our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
You can also bookmark BirminghamLive 's Traffic and Travel landing page here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (James Rodger,  birminghammail.co.uk)

The M6 has reopened after a collision involving two heavy goods vehicles forced it to close for most of the day.
The northbound section is now running but only one lane is open on the southbound section.
Emergency services were called to the scene in the early hours of this morning (Sunday, February 23).
Two HGVs collided with each other at junction 10 near Walsall leaving both the northbound and southbound directions blocked.
A Central Motorway Police Group spokesman confirmed no injuries had been reported following the collision.
"Owing to a collision between two heavy goods vehicles at junction 10 there will be delays in the area throughout the day, please find an alternative route," said the spokesman.
"Luckily no injuries."
Highways England tweeted: "HGV and shed load require recovery, and diesel spillage will then need to be treated, along with barrier repairs."
Motorists are advised to use the M6 Toll while the incident is dealt with.
Each day BirminghamLive journalists bring you the latest news on the roads and railways across Birmingham and the West Midlands and further afield to help keep you on the move.
For the very latest updates on roads including the M6, M42, M5 and more, visit our dedicated traffic and travel news Facebook page here.
You can also bookmark BirminghamLive's Traffic and Travel landing page here.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Scott Hogan scores again - and Aston Villa fans are all saying the same thing

Scott Hogan shook off an ankle injury to put in yet another inspired performance for Birmingham City .
The Aston Villa loanee was a major doubt for the game with Sheffield Wednesday , suffering with a swollen ankle .
However , not only would he start the game , he would go on to pick up an assist and score an injury time equaliser in Blues ' 3-3 draw with Sheffield Wednesday .
It brings his tally for Blues to four goals in just five games , since his spell at Stoke City was cut short in the January window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hogan for praise following the game saying : `` Yes and I see a Scott Hogan that is very happy to contribute to the team , he is enjoying his football , helping the team '' Today it is not easy for him because Sheffield did not give us any space , they dropped and it ’ s very difficult for Scott who is strong going in behind .
`` Still the goal is exactly what Scott Hogan is , a flick from Jukey and a movement in behind from Scott , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level he wants to get . ''
Meanwhile , his parent club failed to register a single shot in anger during their dismal 2-0 , Premier League defeat to Southampton .
Dean Smith decided that Hogan was surplus to requirements last month , instead opting for Borja Baston and Mbwana Samatta to lead the Villa line .
Here 's how Villa fans on social media reacted to another star-turn from Hogan : @ Carlton5385 : Genuine question , why did we loan out Hogan ( 4 in 4 ) n get Baston on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ championship .
Not saying Hogan prem class but Baston IMO is no better @ nchaundy : bring Hogan , Green and O ’ Hare back off loan now.. green and O ’ Hare are villa boys.. ffs get some fight back @ TommyLadd : In added time we go 2-0 down ... and Hogan scores and equaliser for blues .
You couldn ’ t make it up @ MRRUTHLESSONE : So I think villa let Scott Hogan out on loan as not premier league quality but El Ghazi , Trez , Hause , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Don ’ t figure @ AshleighBR : Villa should have kept hogan @ Pjeary : Wonder if we can loan that hogan fella back from blues

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Scott Hogan shook off an ankle injury to put in yet another inspired performance for Birmingham City.
The Aston Villa loanee was a major doubt for the game with Sheffield Wednesday, suffering with a swollen ankle. However, not only would he start the game, he would go on to pick up an assist and score an injury time equaliser in Blues' 3-3 draw with Sheffield Wednesday.
It brings his tally for Blues to four goals in just five games, since his spell at Stoke City was cut short in the January window.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Blues boss Pep Clotet singled out Hogan for praise following the game saying: "Yes and I see a Scott Hogan that is very happy to contribute to the team, he is enjoying his football, helping the team
"Today it is not easy for him because Sheffield did not give us any space, they dropped and it’s very difficult for Scott who is strong going in behind.
"Still the goal is exactly what Scott Hogan is, a flick from Jukey and a movement in behind from Scott, we are here to help get to the level he wants to get."
Meanwhile, his parent club failed to register a single shot in anger during their dismal 2-0, Premier League defeat to Southampton. Dean Smith decided that Hogan was surplus to requirements last month, instead opting for Borja Baston and Mbwana Samatta to lead the Villa line.
Here's how Villa fans on social media reacted to another star-turn from Hogan:
@Carlton5385: Genuine question, why did we loan out Hogan (4 in 4) n get Baston on short deal (1 in 16) championship. Not saying Hogan prem class but Baston IMO is no better
@nchaundy: bring Hogan, Green and O’Hare back off loan now.. green and O’Hare are villa boys.. ffs get some fight back
@BarlowInBrazil: Bring Hogan back.
@TommyLadd: In added time we go 2-0 down... and Hogan scores and equaliser for blues. You couldn’t make it up
@MRRUTHLESSONE: So I think villa let Scott Hogan out on loan as not premier league quality but El Ghazi , Trez , Hause ,nakamba and konsa play ??? Don’t figure
@AndyTails: Scott Hogan again Lol
@AshleighBR: Villa should have kept hogan
@Pjeary: Wonder if we can loan that hogan fella back from blues


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Parents issued new advice over children sexting - and where to get help

Hundreds of children as young as six have been deemed suspects in `` sexting '' offences , Scotland Yard has revealed .
The force warned of the risks of sharing sexual photos and videos of and by under-18s , with reports to police on the rise .
The Met said youngsters are vulnerable to intimate images of them being distributed without their consent , while many are unaware they are breaking the law by taking , sharing or possessing explicit pictures .
Eleanor , 18 , who has used a pseudonym to protect her identity , said she was left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about myself '' after finding out private pictures she sent to her boyfriend had ended up in the hands of strangers .
She was just 14 when she sent him so-called `` nudes '' on Snapchat - an app on which images typically disappear after a few seconds - while she was away on holiday .
But , unknown to her , the boy had downloaded an app allowing him to save the images without the sender realising , and he shared them six months after they had broken up .
`` All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends would talk to me and boys that he ( her ex ) was friends with were calling me a slag and I was actually physically hurt in school .
I was pushed around , had my hair pulled , '' she said .
Eleanor moved schools but weeks later was confronted with the same images .
`` I was getting messages multiple times a day , people sending me the images of myself , calling me horrible , horrible names , insulting the way I look , '' she said .
Her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were eventually released with no further action .
ChronicleLive reports The Internet Watch Foundation ( IWF ) , which is responsible for finding and removing images of child sexual abuse from the internet , said : `` Sexting comes in many different forms and can happen for many different reasons .
`` At the IWF , we see the outcomes of when children are groomed or coerced or encouraged to behave in a sexual way over live streaming sites .
`` There are lots of different reasons why sexting takes place .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a non-consensual way by criminals . ''
What should you do if your child has been involved in sexting ?
Child Law Advice says there are a number of reasons why youngsters become involved in sexting including peer pressure , as a result of harassment , threats or blackmail , to seek someone ’ s approval or if they are in long-distance or online relationships .
The charity advises that you contact the IWF if you find your child sending explicit images as the group can search for those pictures and remove them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` an honest conversation with your child about the incident , to find out what led to it and how can it be avoided in the future '' .
In addition , it has these tips for parents : • Discuss with your child the consequences of sexting • Monitor your child ’ s online presence , especially social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter • Explain that the images can land in the wrong hands and warn them against online predators • Encourage your child to open up about receiving or sending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your child that essential and personal information should never be shared online such as an address , photos and video footage • Set clear rules about what they can and can not do with their electronic devices What does the law say ?
In the UK the age of consent for sexual intercourse is 16 .
However , it is an offence to make , distribute , possess or show any indecent images of anyone aged under 18 , even if the content was created with the consent of that young person .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Protection of Children Act 1978 .
• a child ( under 18 ) sharing a sexual image with their peer ( also under 18 ) • a child ( under 18 ) sharing a sexual image created by another child with a peer or an adult • a child ( under 18 ) in possession of a sexual image created by a child ( under 18 ) They further say : `` The police have said that sexting by children will primarily be considered as a safeguarding issue .
The police must , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on their crime system but as of January 2016 , they can decide not to take further action against the young person if it is not in the public interest .
This will be at the discretion of the police . ''
For more information visit the charity 's website here or the UK Safer Internet Centre here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Sonia Sharma, James Rodger)

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Hundreds of children as young as six have been deemed suspects in "sexting" offences, Scotland Yard has revealed.
The force warned of the risks of sharing sexual photos and videos of and by under-18s, with reports to police on the rise.
The Met said youngsters are vulnerable to intimate images of them being distributed without their consent, while many are unaware they are breaking the law by taking, sharing or possessing explicit pictures.
Eleanor, 18, who has used a pseudonym to protect her identity, said she was left feeling "embarrassed" and "awful about myself" after finding out private pictures she sent to her boyfriend had ended up in the hands of strangers.
She was just 14 when she sent him so-called "nudes" on Snapchat - an app on which images typically disappear after a few seconds - while she was away on holiday.
But, unknown to her, the boy had downloaded an app allowing him to save the images without the sender realising, and he shared them six months after they had broken up.
"All of a sudden, none of my friends would talk to me and boys that he (her ex) was friends with were calling me a slag and I was actually physically hurt in school. I was pushed around, had my hair pulled," she said.
Eleanor moved schools but weeks later was confronted with the same images.
"I was getting messages multiple times a day, people sending me the images of myself, calling me horrible, horrible names, insulting the way I look," she said.
Her boyfriend and two others who were arrested were eventually released with no further action.
ChronicleLive reports The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), which is responsible for finding and removing images of child sexual abuse from the internet, said: "Sexting comes in many different forms and can happen for many different reasons.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"At the IWF, we see the outcomes of when children are groomed or coerced or encouraged to behave in a sexual way over live streaming sites.
"There are lots of different reasons why sexting takes place. But content can be taken and shared in a non-consensual way by criminals."
What should you do if your child has been involved in sexting?
Child Law Advice says there are a number of reasons why youngsters become involved in sexting including peer pressure, as a result of harassment, threats or blackmail, to seek someone’s approval or if they are in long-distance or online relationships.
The charity advises that you contact the IWF if you find your child sending explicit images as the group can search for those pictures and remove them.
(Image: Chris Radburn/PA Wire)
It further says you should have "an honest conversation with your child about the incident, to find out what led to it and how can it be avoided in the future".
In addition, it has these tips for parents:
Discuss with your child the consequences of sexting
Monitor your child’s online presence, especially social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter
Explain that the images can land in the wrong hands and warn them against online predators
Encourage your child to open up about receiving or sending provocative images without your supervision
Remind your child that essential and personal information should never be shared online such as an address, photos and video footage
Set clear rules about what they can and cannot do with their electronic devices
What does the law say?
In the UK the age of consent for sexual intercourse is 16. However, it is an offence to make, distribute, possess or show any indecent images of anyone aged under 18, even if the content was created with the consent of that young person. The law is contained in section 1 Protection of Children Act 1978.
(Image: Tom Hull)
According to Child Law Advice, examples include:
a child (under 18) sharing a sexual image with their peer (also under 18)
a child (under 18) sharing a sexual image created by another child with a peer or an adult
a child (under 18) in possession of a sexual image created by a child (under 18)
They further say: "The police have said that sexting by children will primarily be considered as a safeguarding issue. The police must, by law, record all sexting incidents on their crime system but as of January 2016, they can decide not to take further action against the young person if it is not in the public interest. This will be at the discretion of the police."
For more information visit the charity's website here or the UK Safer Internet Centre here.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Jess Phillips spots big problem with new blue passports - but not everybody can see it

The blue passports are set to hit Britain next month - with a rollout of March 2020 confirmed by the government - but that 's not what everybody is talking about .
The current burgundy design is being replaced in March as a way to mark the UK 's departure from the European Union - and Birmingham MP Jess Phillips has sparked a huge debate on social media .
Blue was the colour first used for British passport covers in 1921 - but are the new ones really blue ?
That 's the question Yardley politician Ms Phillips has posed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1988 as a way to standardise passports across the European Union .
While some have heralded their arrival , others on social media have been left confused over the colour .
`` I feel like this is that weird dress all over again because in my memory these passports were black and this is black and everyone keeps saying it 's blue , '' Jess Phillips tweeted .
More than 2,300 people liked her tweet with many people agreeing with her .
`` Is this the govt trolling us , a bit like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years back ? ''
one Twitter user joked .
Another reasoned : `` Maybe you only see blue if you are a true believer .
The rest of us see black because we are lacking the Brexit gene . ''
Someone else proclaimed : `` I TOO SEE BLACK . ''
But not everybody agreed .
`` I can see from the photo it ’ s very dark blue , '' another wrote .
`` If it were true black , it would be indistinguishable from background but for the gold lettering and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patel said : `` Leaving the European Union gave us a unique opportunity to restore our national identity and forge a new path in the world .
`` By returning to the iconic blue and gold design , the British passport will once again be entwined with our national identity and I can not wait to travel on one . ''

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The blue passports are set to hit Britain next month - with a rollout of March 2020 confirmed by the government - but that's not what everybody is talking about.
The current burgundy design is being replaced in March as a way to mark the UK's departure from the European Union - and Birmingham MP Jess Phillips has sparked a huge debate on social media.
Blue was the colour first used for British passport covers in 1921 - but are the new ones really blue? That's the question Yardley politician Ms Phillips has posed.
The colour changed to burgundy in 1988 as a way to standardise passports across the European Union.
While some have heralded their arrival, others on social media have been left confused over the colour.
(Image: Home Office)
"I feel like this is that weird dress all over again because in my memory these passports were black and this is black and everyone keeps saying it's blue," Jess Phillips tweeted.
More than 2,300 people liked her tweet with many people agreeing with her.
"Is this the govt trolling us, a bit like the blue dress/pink dress thing a few years back?" one Twitter user joked.
Another reasoned: "Maybe you only see blue if you are a true believer. The rest of us see black because we are lacking the Brexit gene."
"Definitely black," commented another user.
Someone else proclaimed: "I TOO SEE BLACK."
(Image: Home Office)
But not everybody agreed.
"I can see from the photo it’s very dark blue," another wrote.
"If it were true black, it would be indistinguishable from background but for the gold lettering and white strip."
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "Leaving the European Union gave us a unique opportunity to restore our national identity and forge a new path in the world.
"By returning to the iconic blue and gold design, the British passport will once again be entwined with our national identity and I cannot wait to travel on one."


birminghammail--2020-02-23--'West Brom disappearing' - Leeds United fans react as Albion win again

West Brom bounced back from dropping points last time out to take a massive step towards a return to the Premier League .
Albion had to settle for a point vs Nottingham Forest last weekend , but had no such worries at Ashton Gate as they ran out 3-0 winners .
Goals for Callum Robinson and a brace for Hal Robson-Kanu , earned Albion all three points with one of their most impressive results of the season .
Robson-Kanu netted his second , moments after Romaine Sawyers was dismissed for putting his hand round the throat of City winger Jamie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cruised towards another Championship win , to leave them four points clear of Leeds United at the top of the Championship .
Leeds beat Reading 1-0 at Elland Road , meaning the pair have now opened a substantial gap to the chasing pack .
Behind the Whites - Fulham , Brentford and Nottingham Forest all dropped points , meaning it was a perfect weekend for the top-two .
This is your round up of all things West Brom ; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest goings on at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on the Baggies throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • Watch the near 3,000 Albion fans celebrate at full time - WATCH • Jake Livermore stars as we rate the Albion players - READ • Bilic on the red card and his side 's character - READ For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can follow our West Brom reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com @ John_Bartrop : Happy to let West Brom win the championship , we 'll take second # lufc I mean look where last years winners are !
@ KingDanny30 : For me , # westbrom can go on and finish 1st from here , so long as we win every game from here on out that 's all I care about .
Would be nice to finish top do n't get me wrong but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BenDavidson1997 : West Brom result aside , could n't have really asked for better results this weekend @ SmatherLOL : Sawyers getting sent off for West brom could be decent for us in the long run @ DanielLUFC_ : West Brom as good as up and we have 3 very good opportunities in the next 2 weeks to extend the gap before Cardiff and Fulham with the chasing gap playing much harder games on paper .
@ AndyLimb : West Brom disappearing , the pack feeling the heat and # lufc limping towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turns to come .
Keep fighting , Leeds .
@ AlwaysLeedsUnited : Straight red for Sawyers today .
He ’ s as important to them as Phillips is to us , so West Brom still in sight .
12 to go .
Need a holiday .

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West Brom bounced back from dropping points last time out to take a massive step towards a return to the Premier League.
Albion had to settle for a point vs Nottingham Forest last weekend, but had no such worries at Ashton Gate as they ran out 3-0 winners.
Goals for Callum Robinson and a brace for Hal Robson-Kanu, earned Albion all three points with one of their most impressive results of the season.
Robson-Kanu netted his second, moments after Romaine Sawyers was dismissed for putting his hand round the throat of City winger Jamie Paterson.
Even with ten-men, Albion cruised towards another Championship win, to leave them four points clear of Leeds United at the top of the Championship.
Leeds beat Reading 1-0 at Elland Road, meaning the pair have now opened a substantial gap to the chasing pack. Behind the Whites - Fulham, Brentford and Nottingham Forest all dropped points, meaning it was a perfect weekend for the top-two.
Leeds United fans react to Albion's win:
@John_Bartrop: Happy to let West Brom win the championship, we'll take second #lufc I mean look where last years winners are!
@KingDanny30: For me, #westbrom can go on and finish 1st from here, so long as we win every game from here on out that's all I care about. Would be nice to finish top don't get me wrong but I'll be okay with 2
@BenDavidson1997: West Brom result aside, couldn't have really asked for better results this weekend
@SmatherLOL: Sawyers getting sent off for West brom could be decent for us in the long run
@DanielLUFC_: West Brom as good as up and we have 3 very good opportunities in the next 2 weeks to extend the gap before Cardiff and Fulham with the chasing gap playing much harder games on paper.
@AndyLimb: West Brom disappearing, the pack feeling the heat and #lufc limping towards the finishing straight. More twists and turns to come. Keep fighting, Leeds.
@AlwaysLeedsUnited: Straight red for Sawyers today. He’s as important to them as Phillips is to us, so West Brom still in sight. 12 to go. Need a holiday.
@john_bartrop: West Brom cruising


birminghammail--2020-02-24--CrossCountry trains from Birmingham to get more carriages

Extra seats will be added to some of Britain 's most overcrowded train services , the Rail Minister has announced .
Chris Heaton-Harris said £2.5 million of Government funding will pay for CrossCountry to operate trains with more carriages .
Services running from Birmingham to Nottingham , Leicester and Cardiff will get more than 5,000 additional seats per week from May .
A further 15,000 weekly seats are planned for other routes such as Cambridge-Stansted Airport from mid-2021 .
The carriages will come from West Midlands Trains , which is receiving new rolling stock .
Just 58 % of CrossCountry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowding on trains , the latest major survey by watchdog Transport Focus suggested .
This was the second-lowest score of all operators , above only TransPennine Express which received 57 % .
CrossCountry operates long-distance trains , with routes stretching from Penzance to Aberdeen .
The funding follows the Department for Transport 's decision last summer to extend the Arriva-owned operator 's franchise to October 2020 .
Investment will also be made to expand CrossCountry 's seat reservation service to allow passengers to reserve a seat on most services .
Mr Heaton-Harris said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to levelling up the country , as we look to modernise our rail network and restructure the industry to put passengers at the heart of the railway .
`` But we want to fund benefits to address pressing needs and improve journeys for passengers in the short-term , as well as in the future .
`` More seats mean more people can travel , increasing access to opportunities and better connecting our regions . ''
CrossCountry managing director Tom Joyner said : `` We are delighted to now be able to get on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with improvements to the journey experience and three new community groups to bring our train services closer to the places we serve .
`` Most importantly , many of our trains have become increasingly busy as more and more people choose rail for their journeys .
`` This delivers the biggest increase in seats for our services in more than 13 years , helping customers enjoy a relaxing and comfortable journey every day .
`` These improvements will deliver an immediate boost for rail users in the Midlands , with the promise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routes in the near future . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Neil Lancefield, PA)

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Extra seats will be added to some of Britain's most overcrowded train services, the Rail Minister has announced.
Chris Heaton-Harris said £2.5 million of Government funding will pay for CrossCountry to operate trains with more carriages.
Services running from Birmingham to Nottingham, Leicester and Cardiff will get more than 5,000 additional seats per week from May.
A further 15,000 weekly seats are planned for other routes such as Cambridge-Stansted Airport from mid-2021.
The carriages will come from West Midlands Trains, which is receiving new rolling stock.
Just 58% of CrossCountry passengers are satisfied with the level of crowding on trains, the latest major survey by watchdog Transport Focus suggested.
This was the second-lowest score of all operators, above only TransPennine Express which received 57%.
CrossCountry operates long-distance trains, with routes stretching from Penzance to Aberdeen.
The funding follows the Department for Transport's decision last summer to extend the Arriva-owned operator's franchise to October 2020.
Investment will also be made to expand CrossCountry's seat reservation service to allow passengers to reserve a seat on most services.
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Mr Heaton-Harris said: "Investing in transport is essential to levelling up the country, as we look to modernise our rail network and restructure the industry to put passengers at the heart of the railway.
"But we want to fund benefits to address pressing needs and improve journeys for passengers in the short-term, as well as in the future.
"More seats mean more people can travel, increasing access to opportunities and better connecting our regions."
CrossCountry managing director Tom Joyner said: "We are delighted to now be able to get on and deliver these benefits for our customers, with improvements to the journey experience and three new community groups to bring our train services closer to the places we serve.
"Most importantly, many of our trains have become increasingly busy as more and more people choose rail for their journeys.
"This delivers the biggest increase in seats for our services in more than 13 years, helping customers enjoy a relaxing and comfortable journey every day.
"These improvements will deliver an immediate boost for rail users in the Midlands, with the promise of even more to come on other routes in the near future."


birminghammail--2020-02-24--Tesco launches new range of plasters that come in three skin tones

Tesco has launched a new range of plasters which come in three skin tones in an attempt to better represent diversity .
The plasters come in light , medium and dark skin tones and the supermarket claims its the first in the UK to offer the diverse range .
The new range is available in Tesco stores nationwide from today ( February 24 ) and costs just £1 a pack .
Tesco developed the plasters after a member of staff spotted a viral tweet by an American man , who detailed the first time he used a plaster that matched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the attention of the supermarket .
Dominique Apollon tweeted the picture in 2019 , writing : `` It 's taken me 45 trips around the sun , but for the first time in my life I know what it feels like to have a `` band-aid '' in my own skin tone .
You can barely even spot it in the first image .
For real I 'm holding back tears .
`` Not like I did n't know these strips existed .
But I definitely did n't expect the complex emotions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just ... blend in .
A seemingly trivial exercise I 've repeated 1000x on my body with `` regular '' ones since childhood .
Self-administered # antiblackness '' This felt like belonging .
Like feeling valued .
Sadness for my younger self and millions of kids of color , esp black kids .
Like a reminder of countless spaces where my skin is still not welcomed .
Feared .
Hated .
Like , 'Why am I really thinking all this 'bout an effing band-aid ? '
'' His tweet prompted a flurry of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how significant the issue of representative plaster tones is for those in Black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) communities .
The development of the new plasters was also supported by the ‘ BAME at Tesco ’ internal colleague network , who believe this is a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of customers .
The aim of the BAME at Tesco network is to raise awareness of diversity , culture and inclusion within the company .
They contributed to the project by coordinating testing the product with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as having a say in the final design of the product .
Tesco hopes this launch will encourage other supermarkets , and retailers , to follow suit and offer a more diverse range of plasters for their customers .
Paulette Balson , Chair of the BAME at Tesco network said : “ One of the main objectives of our network is to help Tesco better serve our customers from all backgrounds and communities .
`` No UK supermarket had ever stocked plasters in a range of skin tones before and we saw this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the charge and make a genuine difference .
`` Through our research within the network , we know how emotive a product like this can be .
For example , one colleague reported that their child had felt self-conscious wearing a plaster on their face to school recently , because it didn ’ t match their skin tone and stood out.
” Nicola Robinson , Health , Beauty and Wellness Director at Tesco added : “ Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and we continually review our products and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` As one of the largest retailers in the UK , we also understand that we have a responsibility to ensure our products reflect the diversity of our customers and colleagues .
`` We believe the launch of our new skin tone plaster range is an important step and a move that we hope will be replicated by other retailers and supermarkets across the country .
”

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Tesco has launched a new range of plasters which come in three skin tones in an attempt to better represent diversity.
The plasters come in light, medium and dark skin tones and the supermarket claims its the first in the UK to offer the diverse range.
The new range is available in Tesco stores nationwide from today (February 24) and costs just £1 a pack.
Tesco developed the plasters after a member of staff spotted a viral tweet by an American man, who detailed the first time he used a plaster that matched his skin tone, and brought it to the attention of the supermarket.
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Dominique Apollon tweeted the picture in 2019, writing: "It's taken me 45 trips around the sun, but for the first time in my life I know what it feels like to have a "band-aid" in my own skin tone. You can barely even spot it in the first image. For real I'm holding back tears.
"Not like I didn't know these strips existed. But I definitely didn't expect the complex emotions that would swirl as I watched it just ... blend in. A seemingly trivial exercise I've repeated 1000x on my body with "regular" ones since childhood. Self-administered #antiblackness
"This felt like belonging. Like feeling valued. Sadness for my younger self and millions of kids of color, esp black kids. Like a reminder of countless spaces where my skin is still not welcomed. Feared. Hated. Like, 'Why am I really thinking all this 'bout an effing band-aid?'"
His tweet prompted a flurry of comments from other Twitter users, highlighting how significant the issue of representative plaster tones is for those in Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.
The development of the new plasters was also supported by the ‘BAME at Tesco’ internal colleague network, who believe this is a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of customers.
The aim of the BAME at Tesco network is to raise awareness of diversity, culture and inclusion within the company.
(Image: Tesco)
They contributed to the project by coordinating testing the product with colleagues and gathering feedback, as well as having a say in the final design of the product.
Tesco hopes this launch will encourage other supermarkets, and retailers, to follow suit and offer a more diverse range of plasters for their customers.
Paulette Balson, Chair of the BAME at Tesco network said: “ One of the main objectives of our network is to help Tesco better serve our customers from all backgrounds and communities.
"No UK supermarket had ever stocked plasters in a range of skin tones before and we saw this as an opportunity for Tesco to lead the charge and make a genuine difference.
"Through our research within the network, we know how emotive a product like this can be. For example, one colleague reported that their child had felt self-conscious wearing a plaster on their face to school recently, because it didn’t match their skin tone and stood out.”
Nicola Robinson, Health, Beauty and Wellness Director at Tesco added: “ Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and we continually review our products and services to best meet their needs.
"As one of the largest retailers in the UK, we also understand that we have a responsibility to ensure our products reflect the diversity of our customers and colleagues.
"We believe the launch of our new skin tone plaster range is an important step and a move that we hope will be replicated by other retailers and supermarkets across the country.”


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Love Island winners crowned Paige and Finn after Laura Whitmore's emotional Caroline Flack tribute

The winners of Love Island 's first ever winter series were revealed on Sunday night - after an emotional finale .
Laura Whitmore entered the villa in Cape Town , in South Africa , where she revealed Siannise Fudge and Luke Trotman , as well as Finley Tapp and Paige Turley , were the final two couples .
After interviews with both , the Love Island presenter confirmed Paige and Finn had landed the £50,000 prize .
Jess Gale and Ched Uzor have come in fourth place in the live Love Island final , with Luke Mabbott and Demi Jones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Irish presenter Whitmore paid tribute to Caroline Flack , the late former presenter of the ITV2 series .
The last episode of the winter series of the ITV2 dating show aired just over a week after the programme 's former host was found dead at 40 having taken her own life .
Whitmore became emotional as she told viewers : `` The past week has been extremely difficult coming to terms with the loss of our friend and colleague Caroline . ''
She added : `` We 're thinking of her family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
`` Caroline loved Love Island , she loved love , and that 's why tonight 's final is dedicated to her . ''
A series of clips from Flack 's time hosting Love Island and companion show Aftersun was shown .
Viewers watching the programme said they cried during Whitmore 's tribute and the montage of Flack 's highlights .
One wrote on Twitter : `` Literally cried whilst watching the tribute for Caroline , love island wont ever be the same without her the kindness and support she provided the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she was Sparkling heartSparkling heart # loveIslandfinal . ''
`` Could n't hold back the tears watching that tribute to caroline flack on # loveisland , '' another said .
One viewer said they were `` crying my eyes out '' at the tribute , adding : `` still so unreal that she 's gone . ''
One fan said : `` Caroline you were and always will be the heart of love island .
`` Your death has affected me in ways I never thought a celebs death would .
Your memory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tribute - now I vote for your face to become the LI heart RIP Flack # loveIslandfinal . ''
Other fans praised the `` beautiful tribute '' to Flack , with one adding `` I take my hat off to the Love Island team '' .
Over the last six weeks , 32 contestants have flown to South Africa , where we 've seen couplings and recouplings and waved goodbye to a whole villa-full of Islanders .
And though this series may not have been as dramatic as previous years , the cast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with very little tension in the run up to the last episode .

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The winners of Love Island's first ever winter series were revealed on Sunday night - after an emotional finale.
Laura Whitmore entered the villa in Cape Town, in South Africa, where she revealed Siannise Fudge and Luke Trotman, as well as Finley Tapp and Paige Turley, were the final two couples.
After interviews with both, the Love Island presenter confirmed Paige and Finn had landed the £50,000 prize.
Jess Gale and Ched Uzor have come in fourth place in the live Love Island final, with Luke Mabbott and Demi Jones in third.
Earlier in the episode, Irish presenter Whitmore paid tribute to Caroline Flack, the late former presenter of the ITV2 series.
(Image: ITV)
The last episode of the winter series of the ITV2 dating show aired just over a week after the programme's former host was found dead at 40 having taken her own life.
Whitmore became emotional as she told viewers: "The past week has been extremely difficult coming to terms with the loss of our friend and colleague Caroline."
She added: "We're thinking of her family and everyone who knew her at this time.
(Image: ITV)
"Caroline loved Love Island, she loved love, and that's why tonight's final is dedicated to her."
A series of clips from Flack's time hosting Love Island and companion show Aftersun was shown.
Viewers watching the programme said they cried during Whitmore's tribute and the montage of Flack's highlights.
One wrote on Twitter: "Literally cried whilst watching the tribute for Caroline , love island wont ever be the same without her the kindness and support she provided the islanders just reflects what a great person she was Sparkling heartSparkling heart #loveIslandfinal."
"Couldn't hold back the tears watching that tribute to caroline flack on #loveisland," another said.
One viewer said they were "crying my eyes out" at the tribute, adding: "still so unreal that she's gone."
One fan said: "Caroline you were and always will be the heart of love island.
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"Your death has affected me in ways I never thought a celebs death would. Your memory will forever live on.
"Amazing tribute - now I vote for your face to become the LI heart RIP Flack #loveIslandfinal."
Other fans praised the "beautiful tribute" to Flack, with one adding "I take my hat off to the Love Island team".
Over the last six weeks, 32 contestants have flown to South Africa, where we've seen couplings and recouplings and waved goodbye to a whole villa-full of Islanders.
And though this series may not have been as dramatic as previous years, the cast has arguably been one of most likeable with very little tension in the run up to the last episode.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--'She loved love' - Love Island's Caroline Flack tribute in final leaves viewers in tears

Laura Whitmore paid tribute to Caroline Flack during the live Love Island final .
She said that the death of the former host of the show had been `` hard to come to terms with '' , adding : `` We 're thinking of her family and everyone who knew her at this time .
`` Caroline loved Love Island , she loved love , and that 's why tonight 's final is dedicated to her . ''
A series of clips from Flack 's time hosting Love Island and companion show Aftersun was shown .
Earlier this week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ episode that aired following her death .
The programme began with footage of the cliffs and sea as narrator Iain said : “ We are all absolutely devastated by the news that Caroline has passed away.
” “ Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this dreadful time .
“ Caroline and me were together from the start of Love Island , and her passion , warmth , and infectious enthusiasm were a crucial part of what made the show connect with millions of viewers .
“ Like many of you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just trying to come to terms with what has happened .
“ My only hope is that we are try and be kinder , always show love , and listen to one another .
“ Caroline , I want to thank you for all the times we had making this show .
“ You were a true friend to me .
* Samaritans ( 116 123 ) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year .
If you prefer to write down how you ’ re feeling , or if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the phone , you can email Samaritans at jo @ samaritans.org

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Laura Whitmore paid tribute to Caroline Flack during the live Love Island final.
She said that the death of the former host of the show had been "hard to come to terms with", adding: "We're thinking of her family and everyone who knew her at this time.
"Caroline loved Love Island, she loved love, and that's why tonight's final is dedicated to her."
A series of clips from Flack's time hosting Love Island and companion show Aftersun was shown.
Earlier this week, Love Island paid tribute during the first episode that aired following her death.
The programme began with footage of the cliffs and sea as narrator Iain said: “We are all absolutely devastated by the news that Caroline has passed away.”
“Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this dreadful time.
“Caroline and me were together from the start of Love Island, and her passion, warmth, and infectious enthusiasm were a crucial part of what made the show connect with millions of viewers.
“Like many of you, right now we’re all just trying to come to terms with what has happened.
“My only hope is that we are try and be kinder, always show love, and listen to one another.
“Caroline, I want to thank you for all the times we had making this show.
“You were a true friend to me.
“I’m gonna miss you, Caz.”
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org
*Love Island airs tonight at 9pm on ITV2


birminghammail--2020-02-23--'Bye bye Pogba' - Manchester United fans react to Jack Grealish transfer comments

Jack Grealish says he appreciates all the praise that is coming his way – but admitted he takes it all with ‘ a pinch of salt ’ .
Grealish has been lauded by opposition managers and pundits this season as he leads Aston Villa ’ s charge against relegation from the Premier League .
His seven league goals and six assists have been vital to the fight against the drop and Manchester United are thought to be keen on a summer transfer .
The speculation surrounding his future has been rampant and Grealish told the Express and Star : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Who doesn ’ t like to be talked about in a nice way ?
But , to be honest , I try and take everything with a pinch of salt .
“ I had it all five years ago when I broke through and I was getting talked about a lot .
I was 19 years old , going online reading about myself and I couldn ’ t believe it .
I was in the papers all the time and they were asking : ‘ Is this the new big thing ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong and it all comes down on you like a ton of bricks .
It is nice to read and nice to listen to , but I don ’ t let it get to me too much , because I know how quickly it can change.
” United fans were impressed with those comments , with one saying : `` Very mature response .
Speaks like a guy who has his feet on the ground and is already a leader . ''
A third added : `` One player ( who ) should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year Grealish # mufc '' .
`` If we get Grealish , I 'd gladly say 'Bye Bye Pogba , '' exclaimed another .
A fifth supporter said : `` Bottom line is if Villa get relegated and they probably will going off recent performances , Jack will be at Utd next year . ''

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Jack Grealish says he appreciates all the praise that is coming his way – but admitted he takes it all with ‘a pinch of salt’.
Grealish has been lauded by opposition managers and pundits this season as he leads Aston Villa’s charge against relegation from the Premier League.
His seven league goals and six assists have been vital to the fight against the drop and Manchester United are thought to be keen on a summer transfer.
The speculation surrounding his future has been rampant and Grealish told the Express and Star: “Of course it’s nice.
“Who doesn’t like to be talked about in a nice way? But, to be honest, I try and take everything with a pinch of salt.
“I had it all five years ago when I broke through and I was getting talked about a lot. I was 19 years old, going online reading about myself and I couldn’t believe it. I was in the papers all the time and they were asking: ‘Is this the new big thing?’
“Then just one thing goes wrong and it all comes down on you like a ton of bricks. It is nice to read and nice to listen to, but I don’t let it get to me too much, because I know how quickly it can change.”
United fans were impressed with those comments, with one saying: "Very mature response. Speaks like a guy who has his feet on the ground and is already a leader."
"Good mentality," said another.
A third added: "One player (who) should (be) in our squad next year Grealish #mufc".
"If we get Grealish, I'd gladly say 'Bye Bye Pogba," exclaimed another.
A fifth supporter said: "Bottom line is if Villa get relegated and they probably will going off recent performances, Jack will be at Utd next year."


birminghammail--2020-02-23--The Met Office is forecasting snow in Birmingham this week - this is when it will hit

Dust off your sledge , get the gloves out and prepare for the snow - because flurries of the white stuff has been forecast to hit Birmingham this week .
On The Met Office website , its current five-day weather forecast for Birmingham shows `` light snow '' is set to fall on Thursday .
Apple 's iPhone weather app is also showing snow for February 27 - and February 29 ( Saturday ) to boot .
The Met Office says of Monday : `` A wet and windy start to the day .
The rain will begin to clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cloudy but bright end to the day .
Maximum temperature 13 °C . ''
And its outlook until Thursday reads : `` A mixture of sunshine and showers , with the risk of hail and thunder at times .
Wintry showers also possible , especially across the hills .
Turning colder and windier . ''
Several forecasters are predicting snow to various degrees throughout the coming week .
A Met Office weather warning for snow and rain has also been issued across areas of the Staffordshire Moorlands and Cheshire East from 2am tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground as a result .
Heavy rain is expected is across the region 's other boroughs .
Forecasters say the unsettled weather could bring travel disruption to the region with commuters potentially facing cancellations .
Tonight , temperatures will drop to 0C and rise to a maximum of 12C on Monday .

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Dust off your sledge, get the gloves out and prepare for the snow - because flurries of the white stuff has been forecast to hit Birmingham this week.
On The Met Office website, its current five-day weather forecast for Birmingham shows "light snow" is set to fall on Thursday.
Apple's iPhone weather app is also showing snow for February 27 - and February 29 (Saturday) to boot.
The Met Office says of Monday: "A wet and windy start to the day. The rain will begin to clear away during the afternoon, leaving a cloudy but bright end to the day. Maximum temperature 13 °C."
And its outlook until Thursday reads: "A mixture of sunshine and showers, with the risk of hail and thunder at times. Wintry showers also possible, especially across the hills. Turning colder and windier."
Several forecasters are predicting snow to various degrees throughout the coming week.
Unexpected snow a fortnight ago led to traffic chaos across Staffordshire.
A Met Office weather warning for snow and rain has also been issued across areas of the Staffordshire Moorlands and Cheshire East from 2am tomorrow morning.
Gritters are out on higher ground as a result.
Heavy rain is expected is across the region's other boroughs.
Forecasters say the unsettled weather could bring travel disruption to the region with commuters potentially facing cancellations.
Tonight, temperatures will drop to 0C and rise to a maximum of 12C on Monday.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Dancing on Ice's John Barrowman embroiled in on-air spat with Ashley Banjo

Lisa George and Tom Naylor have been eliminated from Dancing On Ice .
The Coronation Street actress was chosen to leave the series after the judges voted unanimously to save Libby Clegg and Mark Hanretty .
George said : `` I 'm made up that I got this far to be honest .
I 've had the best time ever , I 've met the most beautiful people , and thank you for Tom . ''
Libby Clegg and Mark Hanretty also ended up in the bottom two on Dancing On Ice after a public vote .
Clegg and her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ na Be Like You from the Jungle Book tonight for movie week .
Their routine had a risky neck spin , several lifts and the required slide from the judges .
Their routine went off without a hitch , and they scored nine from every judge apart from John Barrowman who scored them 8.5 .
And Barrowman was embroiled in an on-air spat with fellow judge Ashley Banjo .
Explaining his score John said : `` I did n't like the bits on the floor , for me it did n't add anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the neck spin was awesome .
`` It 's the semi-finals next week and we 're looking for spectacular . ''
But Ashley butted in and said : `` If that is n't spectacular I do n't know what is .
`` It 's easy to stand up and carry on but they did n't , they did something different .
`` I 'm in awe of you Libby . ''
The episode also saw Hamish return to Dancing on Ice , having pulled out of last weekend 's live show .
Hamish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 16 instalment of the popular ITV1 talent contest .
Hamish was nowhere to be found last week after controversy relating to Caprice , who left the show after being unable to work with the pro skater .
*Dancing on Ice continues at 6pm on ITV next Sunday

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Lisa George and Tom Naylor have been eliminated from Dancing On Ice.
The Coronation Street actress was chosen to leave the series after the judges voted unanimously to save Libby Clegg and Mark Hanretty.
George said: "I'm made up that I got this far to be honest. I've had the best time ever, I've met the most beautiful people, and thank you for Tom."
Libby Clegg and Mark Hanretty also ended up in the bottom two on Dancing On Ice after a public vote.
Clegg and her partner Mark Hanretty danced to I Wanna Be Like You from the Jungle Book tonight for movie week.
Their routine had a risky neck spin, several lifts and the required slide from the judges.
Their routine went off without a hitch, and they scored nine from every judge apart from John Barrowman who scored them 8.5.
And Barrowman was embroiled in an on-air spat with fellow judge Ashley Banjo.
Explaining his score John said: "I didn't like the bits on the floor, for me it didn't add anything special to it, but I thought the neck spin was awesome.
(Image: ITV)
"It's the semi-finals next week and we're looking for spectacular."
But Ashley butted in and said: "If that isn't spectacular I don't know what is.
"It's easy to stand up and carry on but they didn't, they did something different.
"I'm in awe of you Libby."
The episode also saw Hamish return to Dancing on Ice, having pulled out of last weekend's live show.
Hamish was absent from the Sunday, February 16 instalment of the popular ITV1 talent contest.
Hamish was nowhere to be found last week after controversy relating to Caprice, who left the show after being unable to work with the pro skater.
*Dancing on Ice continues at 6pm on ITV next Sunday


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho told to complete 'perfect' Aston Villa transfer

Tottenham have been tipped to make a summer move for Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish by Jamie O ’ Hara .
Grealish has been in stunning form this season despite Villa ’ s struggles in the Premier League and O ’ Hara says he would be a perfect fit in Jose Mourinho 's Spurs side .
The 24-year-old is the best-performing English midfielder in the Premier League this season with seven goals and six assists - a tally which has gone a long-way to ensuring Dean Smith 's side sit above the relegation zone as things stand .
Spurs failed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the summer of 2018 but has taken his game to another level since then .
And former Spurs and Wolves man O ’ Hara told talkSPORT : “ For me , Grealish fits into that Tottenham team .
Absolutely .
He gets in pockets.
” He added : “ Grealish would fit perfectly into Spurs ’ set-up .
He gets into those pockets , he makes things happen , and he would be the one that could link up and put people in like ( Lucas ) Moura , Son ( Heung-min ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think Grealish would definitely be on Tottenham ’ s shopping list.
” Grealish , who is expected to be named in Gareth Southgate 's England squad for the friendlies against Italy and Denmark in March , is under contract until 2023 .
Manchester United are thought to be preparing a summer bid , while the likes of Manchester City , Real Madrid and Barcelona have also been linked .

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Tottenham have been tipped to make a summer move for Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish by Jamie O’Hara.
Grealish has been in stunning form this season despite Villa’s struggles in the Premier League and O’Hara says he would be a perfect fit in Jose Mourinho's Spurs side.
The 24-year-old is the best-performing English midfielder in the Premier League this season with seven goals and six assists - a tally which has gone a long-way to ensuring Dean Smith's side sit above the relegation zone as things stand.
Spurs failed in a bid to sign Grealish in the summer of 2018 but has taken his game to another level since then.
And former Spurs and Wolves man O’Hara told talkSPORT: “For me, Grealish fits into that Tottenham team. Absolutely. He gets in pockets.”
He added: “Grealish would fit perfectly into Spurs’ set-up. He gets into those pockets, he makes things happen, and he would be the one that could link up and put people in like (Lucas) Moura, Son (Heung-min) and (Steven) Bergwijn. I think Grealish would definitely be on Tottenham’s shopping list.”
Grealish, who is expected to be named in Gareth Southgate's England squad for the friendlies against Italy and Denmark in March, is under contract until 2023.
Manchester United are thought to be preparing a summer bid, while the likes of Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona have also been linked.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Former Birmingham City owner Carson Yeung’s aide plotting shock return to England

Former Birmingham City vice-chairman Sammy Yu wants to buy League One side Sunderland , according to reports .
Yu , who worked under Carson Yeung at Blues before leading an attempted takeover of the club himself , is heading up a consortium ready to bid for Sunderland , the Sunday People reports .
Black Cats chairman Stewart Donald has been trying to sell up since the start of the year and there are claimed to be several interested parties .
Yu is thought to be at the forefront of a Hong-Kong based group attempting to complete a takeover worth around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blues was completed in October 2009 , Yu was appointed vice-chairman having been the man who first piqued Yeung ’ s interest in the club three years earlier .
After seeing his role change in the next 12 months , the former Hong Kong footballer resigned and severed all ties with the club .
Yu then tried to complete a takeover at St Andrew ’ s in 2013 after Yeung was arrested over alleged money laundering – for which he was subsequently found guilty and sentenced to six years in prison in March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yu said : “ I guess there will not be any chance for anyone to buy the club as after six months trying I found a lot that is uncertain in BIHL and could not come into a proper way to get the matter to finalise .
“ The consortium and myself really feel bad , and now maybe I will consider a takeover of another English club instead .
“ It is really sad , I would really love for it to happen , but what can I do ?
Please tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do it but by some reason we just can ’ t make it happen.
” “ Perhaps sometime in the future , maybe , but just not now . ''
Blues were eventually bought by Trillion Trophy Asia while Yu was also linked with a failed attempt to buy Sheffield Wednesday .

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Former Birmingham City vice-chairman Sammy Yu wants to buy League One side Sunderland, according to reports.
Yu, who worked under Carson Yeung at Blues before leading an attempted takeover of the club himself, is heading up a consortium ready to bid for Sunderland, the Sunday People reports.
Black Cats chairman Stewart Donald has been trying to sell up since the start of the year and there are claimed to be several interested parties.
Yu is thought to be at the forefront of a Hong-Kong based group attempting to complete a takeover worth around £40m.
When the Yeung-led takeover of Blues was completed in October 2009, Yu was appointed vice-chairman having been the man who first piqued Yeung’s interest in the club three years earlier.
After seeing his role change in the next 12 months, the former Hong Kong footballer resigned and severed all ties with the club.
Yu then tried to complete a takeover at St Andrew’s in 2013 after Yeung was arrested over alleged money laundering – for which he was subsequently found guilty and sentenced to six years in prison in March 2014.
After the bid failed, Yu said: “I guess there will not be any chance for anyone to buy the club as after six months trying I found a lot that is uncertain in BIHL and could not come into a proper way to get the matter to finalise.
“The consortium and myself really feel bad, and now maybe I will consider a takeover of another English club instead.
“It is really sad, I would really love for it to happen, but what can I do? Please tell the fans that we tried very hard to do it but by some reason we just can’t make it happen.”
“Perhaps sometime in the future, maybe, but just not now."
Blues were eventually bought by Trillion Trophy Asia while Yu was also linked with a failed attempt to buy Sheffield Wednesday.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Man Utd transfer wish revealed as 'Grealish-like' move tipped

Welcome to Sunday 's live Aston Villa blog , brought to you by BirminghamLive .
Unfortunately , it 's another @ @ @ @ @ after yesterday 's poor defeat at Southampton .
It was the same old story for @ @ @ @ @ from home , as they fell to a 2-0 defeat , their 10th reversal in @ @ @ @ @ .
Villa failed to register a shot in anger as their relegation fears were heightened @ @ @ @ @ confirmed their Premier League survival , moving ten points clear of the drop zone .
@ @ @ @ @ into the bottom three before the end of the weekend , with the trio of @ @ @ @ @ to play .
We 'll have the reaction to yesterday 's no show on the @ @ @ @ @ as anything else happening .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Shane Ireland, Ben Husband)

Claudio Bravo's strong hand denied Aston Villa and Bjorn Engels a final say in Sunday's Carabao Cup defeat by Manchester City.
The big Belgian rose highest to plant a powerful effort onto City's goal with just two minutes left on the clock - only for City's back-up stopper to pull of an incredible point-blank save to tip the ball onto the post.
Villa, meanwhile, performed bravely before the likes of Jack Grealish and Tyrone Mings sunk to the turf after the final whistle. It was Sergio Aguero and Rodri who, ultimately, gave Villa too much to do. Tanzanian striker Mbwana Samatta had reduced the arrears to give Villa hope going into the break.
However, City continued to dominate the second half, restricting Villa to few chances up until Engels' bullet header with just seconds remaining.
Prior to kick-off Dean Smith opted for a system change, bringing Jack Grealish back inside into central midfield for the first time since playing at Arsenal way back in September.
On the pitch, though, Villa started the much livelier with semi-final assist king Ahmed Elmohamady crossing for Anwar El Ghazi just seconds in - only for the Dutchman's header to nestle on top of Claudio Bravo's net.
The deadlock was cruelly broken after 20 minutes and it was the first half's star performer and puppet master, Rodri, who picked out a pearler of a ball to find Phil Foden bombarding down City's right.
The City youngster, in for a rare start, was given too much room by Matt Targett before heading back to the lurking Sergio Aguero. The Argentine hung back, struck the ball on the bounce with his effort striking off Tyrone Mings' calf before finding its way in.
Foden, meanwhile, continued to cause Villa problems and he sent a left-footed strike whistling past Orjan Nyland's post. Pep Guardiola's men, though, added a sucker-punch of a second after just half-hour.
With the ball rolling away, captain Grealish's sliding challenge struck off Foden before the linesman wrongly flagged for a corner kick. Ilkay Gundogan swung in and found Spaniard Rodri who made no mistake to head home after getting the better of his marker, Frederic Guilbert.
Just 11 minutes later, though, Villa conjured up a cup final lifeline - thanks to a hapless error via John Stones. The City defender collapsed after getting caught under Targett's hopeful ball upfield, El Ghazi pounced and picked out a beauty of a cross which was fired home first-time by Mbwana Samatta's brilliant and athletic diving header.
After the break, Foden again teased and tantalised Targett before jumping on Mings' defensive header to strike a half volley into the ground which flew just past Nyland's post.
The battle between the two sides began to hot up and none more so than the duel between Frederic Guilbert and Raheem Sterling, the latter getting carded for scything down the Frenchman.
City's goal-scorer Rodri was next in the book as Blue Moon frustrations were beginning to show. Villa, meanwhile, were rallied on by the 33,000 claret and blue supporters crammed into the West end.
Head coach Smith changed it up with a little over 20 to go, pushing Grealish further upfield to play from the left while drafting Conor Hourihane inside with the Irishman replacing the creator of Villa's goal, El Ghazi. Trezeguet also came on for fellow countryman Elmohamady.
Cup keeper Nyland sprung into action afterwards, saving well down to his left to stop Rodri's powerful header. The midfielder rose highest from De Bruyne's corner but the Norwegian was equal to it.
Smith rolled the dice late on and gave Keinan Davis a run with 10 to go. City, though, continued to pile on the pressure and kept attempting to pass it into the net. Aguero went close moments later, striking the side netting before slowly walking off the pitch after being replaced by Gabriel Jesus.
With four left on the clock, Villa's chance came. Hourihane's whipped delivery found Bjorn Engels who leapt highest to head at City's goal from six yards - only for Claudio Bravo to dig out a worldie of a save to tip Engels' header onto the post before claiming.
Immediately up the other end, Bernardo Silva struck a shot from Sterling's cut back - but Nyland was more than equal to it and saved with his legs before clearing.
However, it was all too little too late by Villa and, at the final whistle, Smith's side crumpled to the turf after giving it their all against one of the world's best sides. The battling performance should provide hope for the relegation run-in.
ASTON VILLA, 4-5-1 : Nyland; Guilbert, Engels, Mings, Targett; Elmohamady (Trezeguet, 69), Douglas Luiz, Nakamba, Grealish, El Ghazi (Hourihane, 69); Samatta.
Subs : Reina, Taylor, Lansbury, Konsa, Davis.
MAN CITY, 4-3-3 : Bravo; Walker, Fernandinho, Stones, Zinchenko; Gundogan (De Bruyne, 58), Rodri, David Silva (Bernardo Silva, 76); Foden, Aguero (Jesus, 82), Sterling.
Subs : Ederson, Gabriel Jesus, Mendy, Mahrez, Otamendi.
GOALS : Aguero (20), Rodri (30), Samatta (41)
REFEREE : Lee Mason
ATTENDANCE: 82,149
BOOKED : Sterling (56), Rodri (59), Elmohamady (67), Nakamba (72), Mings (90)
NEXT UP : Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, Monday, March 9
Keep up to date with it all in the blog below...


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Birmingham Airport flights affected as Canary Islands sandstorm leaves holidaymakers stranded

Birmingham Airport flights are among those affected after British holidaymakers were left stranded at airports in the Canary Islands after a Saharan sandstorm .
Flights from Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , La Palma , North and South Tenerife Airports have been grounded for the foreseeable future due to the weather conditions .
Passengers hoping to jet off from Birmingham were among those affected - with flights scheduled to land in the West Midlands from the Canaries also impacted .
`` Any news on the delays to Gran Canaria guys , or at least getting us back indoors ?
Been sat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone 's getting a bit antsy ... . ''
one holidaymaker tweeted to Birmingham Airport .
The airport subsequently replied : `` I am sorry to hear about the current situation .
I advise you to contact your airline directly for the latest update on your flight . ''
Another asked : `` I 'm due to fly to Gran Canaria tomorrow morning from Birmingham , I understand that Las Palmas airport is currently closed due to the sand storm .
Can you give me information regarding the flight tomorrow and is it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Boarded flight to Birmingham from Gran Canaria this morning after it was cancelled last night !
Now all flights grounded again until tomorrow at least - currently disembarking '' another fumed .
Customer service staff for the airports told the PA news agency that while no planes are flying , airports have remained open for passengers .
One call centre worker said : `` People should contact their airline company to try and get accommodation for the night if their flight has been cancelled . ''
Passengers have posted photographs of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information .
Greg Horsman , 29 , was on holiday with his girlfriend and his friends on a Tui cruise and was due to fly home to Manchester on Saturday evening .
However , they have been forced to stay in Gran Canaria for another two nights due to the storm .
He told PA : `` It 's frustrating .
We 're just ready to be home .
`` Last night we were in the airport for five hours and I was frustrated because Tui could n't help us or do anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed which they did at 10.30pm .
`` Tui reps did give us updates when we asked but unfortunately it did n't seem they were getting much information quickly .
`` We then spent the night there , most of us in our original cabins , then came back to the airport at 12.30pm and have been here since .
`` We are being sent to a hotel tonight but we 're not sure where we 're going to yet . ''
He added : `` We 're frustrated because there should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grounds flights .
`` They all kept saying 'Oh we 've never seen this happen before ' which I understand , it 's a freak of nature , but when weather grounds all flights there is surely a contingency plan that gets put into place so people can get accommodation sorted . ''
Elsewhere , Britons have posted photographs of the orange sky on the islands as the wind continued to batter seaside towns .
Michael Nixon , who is on holiday in Tenerife with his family to celebrate his 50th birthday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday , said `` pink dust '' had covered his rented apartment balcony .
He said : `` It 's all a bit surreal .
A heavy mist came in last night followed by very strong gusty winds during the night .
`` This morning we awoke to yellowish haze and strong winds .
`` We ventured out but it 's difficult to see with all of the sand in the air .
`` We are slightly concerned that our flight home on Wednesday could be affected .
`` The sky is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 84F ) but visibility is around 200m . ''
Meanwhile in the UK , flights out to the Canary Islands are being delayed or cancelled due to the sandstorm .
Tim Crew , 69 , had booked a holiday to Lanzarote with his family after cancelling their previous holiday to Hong Kong and Thailand because of the coronavirus outbreak .
Their BA flight out of Gatwick Airport on Sunday has been cancelled and the family has been booked into a hotel .
He said : `` It 's one of those things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to us and if there had been obvious problems and culpability , I 'd probably be quite annoyed .
`` But everyone 's done the right thing .
The pilot came out a few times and told us in person and apologised , saying they had no more news at the moment and they were going to send us to a hotel .
`` It 's not great , it 's not how I planned it , it 's not what I want , but these things happen . ''

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Birmingham Airport flights are among those affected after British holidaymakers were left stranded at airports in the Canary Islands after a Saharan sandstorm.
Flights from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, North and South Tenerife Airports have been grounded for the foreseeable future due to the weather conditions.
Passengers hoping to jet off from Birmingham were among those affected - with flights scheduled to land in the West Midlands from the Canaries also impacted.
"Any news on the delays to Gran Canaria guys, or at least getting us back indoors? Been sat on the plane for 2 hours and everyone's getting a bit antsy...." one holidaymaker tweeted to Birmingham Airport.
The airport subsequently replied: "I am sorry to hear about the current situation. I advise you to contact your airline directly for the latest update on your flight."
Another asked: "I'm due to fly to Gran Canaria tomorrow morning from Birmingham, I understand that Las Palmas airport is currently closed due to the sand storm. Can you give me information regarding the flight tomorrow and is it likely to go ahead please?"
"Boarded flight to Birmingham from Gran Canaria this morning after it was cancelled last night! Now all flights grounded again until tomorrow at least - currently disembarking" another fumed.
Customer service staff for the airports told the PA news agency that while no planes are flying, airports have remained open for passengers.
One call centre worker said: "People should contact their airline company to try and get accommodation for the night if their flight has been cancelled."
Passengers have posted photographs of people sitting on the floor waiting for more information.
(Image: Met Office)
Greg Horsman, 29, was on holiday with his girlfriend and his friends on a Tui cruise and was due to fly home to Manchester on Saturday evening.
However, they have been forced to stay in Gran Canaria for another two nights due to the storm.
He told PA: "It's frustrating. We're just ready to be home.
"Last night we were in the airport for five hours and I was frustrated because Tui couldn't help us or do anything until the airport declared that they were closed which they did at 10.30pm.
"Tui reps did give us updates when we asked but unfortunately it didn't seem they were getting much information quickly.
"We then spent the night there, most of us in our original cabins, then came back to the airport at 12.30pm and have been here since.
"We are being sent to a hotel tonight but we're not sure where we're going to yet."
(Image: Met Office)
He added: "We're frustrated because there should be contingency plans for when a weather event grounds flights.
"They all kept saying 'Oh we've never seen this happen before' which I understand, it's a freak of nature, but when weather grounds all flights there is surely a contingency plan that gets put into place so people can get accommodation sorted."
Elsewhere, Britons have posted photographs of the orange sky on the islands as the wind continued to batter seaside towns.
Michael Nixon, who is on holiday in Tenerife with his family to celebrate his 50th birthday and is due to fly home to Newcastle on Wednesday, said "pink dust" had covered his rented apartment balcony.
He said: "It's all a bit surreal. A heavy mist came in last night followed by very strong gusty winds during the night.
"This morning we awoke to yellowish haze and strong winds.
"We ventured out but it's difficult to see with all of the sand in the air.
"We are slightly concerned that our flight home on Wednesday could be affected.
"The sky is still yellow. It's around 29C (84F) but visibility is around 200m."
Meanwhile in the UK, flights out to the Canary Islands are being delayed or cancelled due to the sandstorm.
Tim Crew, 69, had booked a holiday to Lanzarote with his family after cancelling their previous holiday to Hong Kong and Thailand because of the coronavirus outbreak.
Their BA flight out of Gatwick Airport on Sunday has been cancelled and the family has been booked into a hotel.
He said: "It's one of those things really. If no one had talked to us and if there had been obvious problems and culpability, I'd probably be quite annoyed.
"But everyone's done the right thing. The pilot came out a few times and told us in person and apologised, saying they had no more news at the moment and they were going to send us to a hotel.
"It's not great, it's not how I planned it, it's not what I want, but these things happen."


birminghammail--2020-02-23--'Alarm bells ringing' - National media view on Aston Villa's shocker at Southampton

The two sides were level on points when they last met in December , with Aston Villa outside the relegation zone on goal difference and Southampton inside it .
How manager Dean Smith must wish his side could string together a run like the south coast side went on subsequently .
Since losing to Saints , Villa have won three league games and each was followed by defeat in their next league game .
They were perhaps unlucky to concede a last-gasp winner at home to Tottenham last week and on Saturday would have hoped to see players fighting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had Tyrone Mings return after missing the Spurs defeat with tonsillitis - but the England defender had to repel Southampton almost single-handedly early on .
Captain Jack Grealish was well shackled by Southampton 's James Ward-Prowse , playing at right-back , and new signing Mbwana Samatta received precious little service throughout .
Villa are still outside the bottom three and may stay there when all this weekend ’ s fixtures are completed , with West Ham United and Watford facing tricky fixtures away to Liverpool and Manchester United respectively .
But it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there indefinitely .
They remain the only club in the division not to have kept a clean sheet on the road and they could have lost by a cricket score here .
With the exception of Jack Grealish they had little to offer in attack and the less said about their rearguard the better .
Only when Grealish was on the ball did a Villa goal look remotely possible , and one through-pass from the Villa captain deceived the entire Southampton defence but Mbwana Samatta was offside before slotting the ball home .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a similar display next Sunday in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley , an occasion to celebrate threatens to be a deeply chastening experience .
Villa were outclassed from start to finish with Southampton eventually building on Long ’ s early strike in second-half stoppage time when Armstrong swept the ball into an empty net while Pepe Reina made the pilgrimage back to his goal after going up for a late corner in vain .
For Villa this was a damaging defeat and a worrying dress rehearsal for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had 28 shots , peppered the worst defence in the division – Villa have not kept a clean sheet on the road this season – and Marvelous Nakamba and Douglas Luiz were painfully overrun in midfield .
There was equally little encouragement going forward , with Mbwana Samatta starved of service and Jack Grealish subdued by James Ward-Prowse .
Villa ’ s single shot on target came midway through the second half .
Dean Smith ripped into his Aston Villa flops and warned he is ready to wield the axe ahead of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands strugglers failed to produce a single shot on target at Southampton while they crashed to another costly defeat in their battle to beat the drop .
They remain only a point above the drop zone and afterwards fuming Smith did not hold back with his stinging criticism .
Asked how he felt , the Villa Park boss , whose side face Manchester City at Wembley , snapped : “ Embarrassment .
We never showed enough desire to get on the ball and to compete .
“ It ’ s a massive surprise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most was the lack of a fight .
There was no competitive edge from us . ''
Smith ’ s side did not muster a single shot on target in a dismal display which will set more alarm bells ringing in the west midlands .
Long ’ s eighth-minute strike and Armstrong ’ s stoppage-time break-away , after Pepe Reina had gone up for a corner , eased a Saints side who not so long ago looked relegation-bound themselves to the relative safety of 34 points .
Southampton kicked off with the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it did not show as they tore into a Villa side with woeful form on the road .

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The two sides were level on points when they last met in December, with Aston Villa outside the relegation zone on goal difference and Southampton inside it. How manager Dean Smith must wish his side could string together a run like the south coast side went on subsequently.
Since losing to Saints, Villa have won three league games and each was followed by defeat in their next league game.
They were perhaps unlucky to concede a last-gasp winner at home to Tottenham last week and on Saturday would have hoped to see players fighting for EFL Cup final places.
They also had Tyrone Mings return after missing the Spurs defeat with tonsillitis - but the England defender had to repel Southampton almost single-handedly early on.
Captain Jack Grealish was well shackled by Southampton's James Ward-Prowse, playing at right-back, and new signing Mbwana Samatta received precious little service throughout.
Villa are still outside the bottom three and may stay there when all this weekend’s fixtures are completed, with West Ham United and Watford facing tricky fixtures away to Liverpool and Manchester United respectively. But it is hard to believe that they will stay there indefinitely.
They remain the only club in the division not to have kept a clean sheet on the road and they could have lost by a cricket score here. With the exception of Jack Grealish they had little to offer in attack and the less said about their rearguard the better.
Only when Grealish was on the ball did a Villa goal look remotely possible, and one through-pass from the Villa captain deceived the entire Southampton defence but Mbwana Samatta was offside before slotting the ball home.
As Smith acknowledged, if Villa turn in a similar display next Sunday in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, an occasion to celebrate threatens to be a deeply chastening experience. Villa were outclassed from start to finish with Southampton eventually building on Long’s early strike in second-half stoppage time when Armstrong swept the ball into an empty net while Pepe Reina made the pilgrimage back to his goal after going up for a late corner in vain.
For Villa this was a damaging defeat and a worrying dress rehearsal for their date with City. Southampton, who had 28 shots, peppered the worst defence in the division – Villa have not kept a clean sheet on the road this season – and Marvelous Nakamba and Douglas Luiz were painfully overrun in midfield. There was equally little encouragement going forward, with Mbwana Samatta starved of service and Jack Grealish subdued by James Ward-Prowse. Villa’s single shot on target came midway through the second half.
(Image: Getty Images)
Dean Smith ripped into his Aston Villa flops and warned he is ready to wield the axe ahead of the League Cup final next Sunday.
The Midlands strugglers failed to produce a single shot on target at Southampton while they crashed to another costly defeat in their battle to beat the drop.
They remain only a point above the drop zone and afterwards fuming Smith did not hold back with his stinging criticism.
Asked how he felt, the Villa Park boss, whose side face Manchester City at Wembley, snapped: “Embarrassment. We never showed enough desire to get on the ball and to compete.
“It’s a massive surprise. The thing that hurts me the most was the lack of a fight. There was no competitive edge from us."
Smith’s side did not muster a single shot on target in a dismal display which will set more alarm bells ringing in the west midlands.
Long’s eighth-minute strike and Armstrong’s stoppage-time break-away, after Pepe Reina had gone up for a corner, eased a Saints side who not so long ago looked relegation-bound themselves to the relative safety of 34 points.
Southampton kicked off with the worst home record in the Premier League but it did not show as they tore into a Villa side with woeful form on the road.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--Wolves have a new unsung hero & the Tottenham dilemmas facing Nuno

More goals from Diogo Jota and a solitary strike from Raul Jimenez clinched a 3-0 win for Wolverhampton Wanderers over Norwich City at Molineux .
Jota , who struck a hat-trick against Espanyol on Thursday night , bagged another two inside 30 minutes against the Canaries to set Wolves on their way .
Jimenez added the third after half-time with his 21st goal of the season across all competitions .
Here are our findings from a routine Wolves win : It ’ s now five goals in 150 minutes of football for Jota who has , by his own standards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Once Jota hits a hot streak he ’ s very difficult to stop though , which is why Wolves fans have been yearning for him to get back on the goal trail .
After failing to score in his first 14 matches last season Jota rattled in 10 in his final 23 games .
In 2017/18 Jota scored once in eight matches at this point in the season before managing five in seven games to seal promotion .
A similar run now could perhaps help Wolves to their greatest feat yet under Nuno @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t always been the first name on the team sheet in the Premier League for Wolves - but he ’ s been outstanding in the last few months .
He looks the part alongside Conor Coady and Willy Boly at the back and has played a big role in Wolves keeping four successive clean sheets .
Saiss showed his creative flair against Norwich with a well-placed cut-back for Jota ’ s second goal and again offered those he was marking little to zero encouragement .
Nuno has long been convinced that Saiss has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre-back and the Moroccan is now proving his manager right .
The biggest criticism levelled at Wolves last season was that they underperformed against the lesser teams .
Wolves collected 11 points from a possible 30 against the bottom five in the Premier League last season .
Compare that to 18 points from a possible 21 against this season ’ s bottom five of Norwich , Watford , West Ham , Aston Villa and Bournemouth .
Wolves have games against West Ham ( a ) , Bournemouth ( h ) and Villa ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done - now for Spurs Whether it was 1-0 , 2-0 , 3-0 or whatever was irrelevant , what was important was that Wolves beat Norwich and kept pace with the Champions League chasing pack .
With Tottenham and Sheffield United failing to win on Saturday it was imperative that Wolves took maximum points against a Norwich team who have been the Premier League ’ s whipping boys for most of the season .
They did that and looked very convincing in doing so .
Wolves ’ emphatic first leg victory over Espanyol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starting XI should he wish to in Barcelona in order to ensure all of his main protagonists are fresh for Spurs .
Sunday ’ s match will go a long way to deciding who are going to be Chelsea ’ s main challengers for fourth spot .
Second guessing Nuno is tough but there ’ s little doubt that he will shuffle his pack for Thursday ’ s second leg .
It ’ s more a case of how many changes he makes .
The likes of Max Kilman , Ruben Vinagre , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to be given minutes to impress , while Oskar Buur , Bruno Jordao , Morgan Gibbs-White and Leonardo Campana will come into Nuno ’ s thinking .
Jonny Otto - who left Molineux in a protective boot as a precaution after being clattered by Ben Godfrey - is likely to be rested .
There seems little need to risk the likes of Joao Moutinho , Ruben Neves , Jota or Jimenez either .

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More goals from Diogo Jota and a solitary strike from Raul Jimenez clinched a 3-0 win for Wolverhampton Wanderers over Norwich City at Molineux.
Jota, who struck a hat-trick against Espanyol on Thursday night, bagged another two inside 30 minutes against the Canaries to set Wolves on their way.
Jimenez added the third after half-time with his 21st goal of the season across all competitions.
Here are our findings from a routine Wolves win:
Jota’s time is now
It’s now five goals in 150 minutes of football for Jota who has, by his own standards, struggled for form this season.
Once Jota hits a hot streak he’s very difficult to stop though, which is why Wolves fans have been yearning for him to get back on the goal trail.
After failing to score in his first 14 matches last season Jota rattled in 10 in his final 23 games. In 2017/18 Jota scored once in eight matches at this point in the season before managing five in seven games to seal promotion.
A similar run now could perhaps help Wolves to their greatest feat yet under Nuno Espirito Santo.
A word on Saiss
Romain Saiss hasn’t always been the first name on the team sheet in the Premier League for Wolves - but he’s been outstanding in the last few months.
He looks the part alongside Conor Coady and Willy Boly at the back and has played a big role in Wolves keeping four successive clean sheets.
Saiss showed his creative flair against Norwich with a well-placed cut-back for Jota’s second goal and again offered those he was marking little to zero encouragement.
Nuno has long been convinced that Saiss has the qualities to become a top class centre-back and the Moroccan is now proving his manager right.
A marked improvement
The biggest criticism levelled at Wolves last season was that they underperformed against the lesser teams.
Wolves collected 11 points from a possible 30 against the bottom five in the Premier League last season. Compare that to 18 points from a possible 21 against this season’s bottom five of Norwich, Watford, West Ham, Aston Villa and Bournemouth.
Wolves have games against West Ham (a), Bournemouth (h) and Villa (a) still to come.
Job done - now for Spurs
Whether it was 1-0, 2-0, 3-0 or whatever was irrelevant, what was important was that Wolves beat Norwich and kept pace with the Champions League chasing pack.
With Tottenham and Sheffield United failing to win on Saturday it was imperative that Wolves took maximum points against a Norwich team who have been the Premier League’s whipping boys for most of the season.
They did that and looked very convincing in doing so.
Wolves’ emphatic first leg victory over Espanyol means Nuno can make changes to his starting XI should he wish to in Barcelona in order to ensure all of his main protagonists are fresh for Spurs.
Sunday’s match will go a long way to deciding who are going to be Chelsea’s main challengers for fourth spot.
Who should Nuno rest?
Second guessing Nuno is tough but there’s little doubt that he will shuffle his pack for Thursday’s second leg. It’s more a case of how many changes he makes.
The likes of Max Kilman, Ruben Vinagre, Pedro Neto and Daniel Podence are all likely to be given minutes to impress, while Oskar Buur, Bruno Jordao, Morgan Gibbs-White and Leonardo Campana will come into Nuno’s thinking.
Jonny Otto - who left Molineux in a protective boot as a precaution after being clattered by Ben Godfrey - is likely to be rested.
There seems little need to risk the likes of Joao Moutinho, Ruben Neves, Jota or Jimenez either.


birminghammail--2020-02-23--'I wish to play for Manchester United' - Aston Villa target breaks transfer silence

Aston Villa have set their sights on 13-year-old wonderkid Daniel Akinleye , according to reports in Africa .
The young striker , who plays for French third tier outfit Quevilly-Rouen Metropole , is said to have caught the eye of several Premier League clubs .
Akinleye has already been promoted to Quevilly-Rouen ’ s under 15s side and scouts have flocked to watch him play .
Sides in France are also monitoring Akinleye ’ s progress closely as he continues to stand out among his peers .
But the forward , born to Nigerian parents in France , has revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Nigerian international Odion Ighalo and play for Manchester United .
`` My dream club where I wish to play for in future is Manchester United like Odion Jude Ighalo , '' Akinleye is quoted as saying by All Nigeria Soccer .
`` My qualities as a striker ; speed , strong , technique .
I need to improve my left foot , my finishing in front of goal and maturity in my game .
`` I model my game after Romelu Lukaku because he is strong , I like his technique and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : `` I was born in France but my parents were born in Nigeria .
I do n't know where my international future lies but when the opportunity comes I will see what is best for me and my family . ''
Villa have been keen to recruit young talent into their academy and chief executive Christian Purslow told a supporter 's trust AGM earlier this week : `` We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old , nine-year-old , 10-year-old , 11-year-old , 12-year-old , 14 , 16 ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets a professional contract at 16 . ''

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Aston Villa have set their sights on 13-year-old wonderkid Daniel Akinleye, according to reports in Africa.
The young striker, who plays for French third tier outfit Quevilly-Rouen Metropole, is said to have caught the eye of several Premier League clubs.
Akinleye has already been promoted to Quevilly-Rouen’s under 15s side and scouts have flocked to watch him play.
Sides in France are also monitoring Akinleye’s progress closely as he continues to stand out among his peers.
But the forward, born to Nigerian parents in France, has revealed his wish to follow in the footsteps of Nigerian international Odion Ighalo and play for Manchester United.
"My dream club where I wish to play for in future is Manchester United like Odion Jude Ighalo," Akinleye is quoted as saying by All Nigeria Soccer.
"My qualities as a striker; speed, strong, technique. I need to improve my left foot, my finishing in front of goal and maturity in my game.
"I model my game after Romelu Lukaku because he is strong, I like his technique and he scores every time!"
He added: "I was born in France but my parents were born in Nigeria. I don't know where my international future lies but when the opportunity comes I will see what is best for me and my family."
Villa have been keen to recruit young talent into their academy and chief executive Christian Purslow told a supporter's trust AGM earlier this week: "We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, 14, 16... one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16."