birminghammail--2020-08-08--What was found inside city 'cuckoo' home taken over by violent gang

A cleaning kit for a shotgun , a stolen motorbike and drugs were uncovered as cops raided a city home 'taken over by gangs ' .
Officers from the organised crime team at West Midlands Police , drafted in to crackdown on violence in the city , made the bust on Saturday morning , August 8 .
They executed a 'drugs act ' warrant at a property suspected of being used as a 'cuckoo address ' in Kelsall Croft , Ladywood .
Alongside the tactical support team , cops found several items including drugs , the stolen motorcycle and 'firearms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the shotgun cleaning kit as shown above with BirminghamLive hours after the successful raid .
The news was shared as part of an urgent warning to the community to report any information on cuckooed addresses to the police .
A tweet from West Midlands Police organised crime team , read : `` @ Gangs_WMP have this morning executed a Drugs Act warrant with @ OSU_WMP at as suspected cuckoo addressing in Kelsall Croft , Ladywood .
`` If you suspect an address has been taken over by gangs , report it via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LadywoodWMP @ SuptGMorris @ SallieChurchill . ''
According to the dictionary , 'cuckooing ' is a practice where `` people take over a person 's home and use the property to facilitate exploitation. ''
It takes the name from cuckoos who take over the nests of other birds . ''
Anyone who has information on a cuckooed address should contact West Midlands Police via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or 101 .

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A cleaning kit for a shotgun, a stolen motorbike and drugs were uncovered as cops raided a city home 'taken over by gangs'.
Officers from the organised crime team at West Midlands Police, drafted in to crackdown on violence in the city, made the bust on Saturday morning, August 8.
They executed a 'drugs act' warrant at a property suspected of being used as a 'cuckoo address' in Kelsall Croft, Ladywood.
Alongside the tactical support team, cops found several items including drugs, the stolen motorcycle and 'firearms components'.
(Image: Google images)
The team shared images of the shotgun cleaning kit as shown above with BirminghamLive hours after the successful raid.
The news was shared as part of an urgent warning to the community to report any information on cuckooed addresses to the police.
A tweet from West Midlands Police organised crime team, read: "@Gangs_WMP have this morning executed a Drugs Act warrant with @OSU_WMP at as suspected cuckoo addressing in Kelsall Croft, Ladywood.
"Numerous items of interest recovered including drugs, firearms components and a stolen motorcycle.
"If you suspect an address has been taken over by gangs, report it via 101 or anonymously via @CrimestoppersUK @LadywoodWMP @SuptGMorris @SallieChurchill."
What is cuckooing?
According to the dictionary, 'cuckooing ' is a practice where "people take over a person's home and use the property to facilitate exploitation.
" It takes the name from cuckoos who take over the nests of other birds."
Anyone who has information on a cuckooed address should contact West Midlands Police via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or 101.


birminghammail--2020-08-08--Lazio interest in Wesley 'genuine' - report

A number of distinct and separate reports emerged yesterday in the Italian and Turkish media linking Aston Villa striker Wesley with a move to Lazio - with new reports now doubling down on the Italian club 's interest in the Brazilian .
Wesley was on Lazio 's radar as an option to elite forward Ciro Immobile last summer , but a move failed to materialise due to Villa 's own move for the man who would become their club record signing .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dello Sporto suggested that Wesley is on the top of a shortlist devised by Lazio for this summer - with the club believing a deal is possible to due to Villa 's interest in Divock Origi .
Today 's issue of Corriere dello Sporto ( via Sport Witness ) suggests that Lazio are ready to pull the trigger on an offer- with Turkish media yesterday suggesting a bid has been made .
According to the newspaper , there is believed to be scope for a positive negotiation with Villa due to concerns over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no offer has been made .
This report would be a doubling-down of interest though .
Vedat Muriqi has been linked to Lazio as well - and would be available for a similar price , meaning Lazio could choose to buy elsewhere .
However , Lazio feel an easy deal can be made due to Villa 's interest in Origi - and a source has admitted to the newspaper that their interest in Wesley is genuine , despite the injury that continues to rule the striker out of action despite a recovery being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want an offer to be made that is much closer to the £22m that brought Wesley to the club , though - before even considering a sale .

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A number of distinct and separate reports emerged yesterday in the Italian and Turkish media linking Aston Villa striker Wesley with a move to Lazio - with new reports now doubling down on the Italian club's interest in the Brazilian.
Wesley was on Lazio's radar as an option to elite forward Ciro Immobile last summer, but a move failed to materialise due to Villa's own move for the man who would become their club record signing.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Reports yesterday from Corriere dello Sporto suggested that Wesley is on the top of a shortlist devised by Lazio for this summer - with the club believing a deal is possible to due to Villa's interest in Divock Origi.
Today's issue of Corriere dello Sporto ( via Sport Witness ) suggests that Lazio are ready to pull the trigger on an offer- with Turkish media yesterday suggesting a bid has been made.
According to the newspaper, there is believed to be scope for a positive negotiation with Villa due to concerns over their strength up front - stating that no offer has been made.
This report would be a doubling-down of interest though. Vedat Muriqi has been linked to Lazio as well - and would be available for a similar price, meaning Lazio could choose to buy elsewhere.
However, Lazio feel an easy deal can be made due to Villa's interest in Origi - and a source has admitted to the newspaper that their interest in Wesley is genuine, despite the injury that continues to rule the striker out of action despite a recovery being close.
Villa, arguably, would want an offer to be made that is much closer to the £22m that brought Wesley to the club, though - before even considering a sale.


birminghammail--2020-08-08--What we know about Aston Villa's interest in Said Benrahma transfer

Aston Villa continue to be linked with Brentford winger Said Benrahma .
The Algeria international is rumoured to be a target for a number of Premier League clubs having enjoyed a stunning season in the Championship .
Villa want to add quality to Dean Smith 's squad having flirted with relegation in their first campaign back in the top-flight .
The club appointed Johan Lange as their new sporting director last week after the departure of Jesus Garcia Pitarch , who had overseen last summer 's spending spree .
Here 's a round-up of what he know so far about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest developments .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or by clicking here Smith wanted to be reunited with the Brentford flier last summer but Villa were not willing to meet the Bees ' £20m asking price .
He is thought to be on the club 's radar again this summer with Villa preparing for another season in the top-flight .
According to the Sunday Mirror , Villa have a budget of £100m with four key signings being targeted .
Smith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said to be Benrahma - as well as a proven striker , a midfielder and a centre-back .
Leeds , Chelsea and Arsenal also linked as Brentford 'set fee' Villa are far from alone in reportedly holding an interest .
According to The Athletic , second tier champions Leeds want to sign the Algeria international as part of their plans to upgrade Marcelo Bielsa 's squad .
Chelsea are thought to be long-term admirers while Arsenal and West Ham United have also been recently linked .
Earlier this year it was reported by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £30m asking price on the 24-year-old , who has scored 17 goals and provided nine assists for the Bees in an outstanding season .
When asked last month about the transfer speculation involving top-flight sides , he told Metro ( via the Mirror ) : `` I was really flattered .
`` But , at the same time , I am so focused about getting out of the Championship with Brentford that I do not pay too much attention .
But it gives me confidence .
`` It has always been a target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League and I really wish to play in the Premier League with Brentford .
`` It would be magnificent for Brentford because it would be the first time and we have really been working hard on it . ''
Brentford retained hope of keeping the winger , but those chances now appear slim .
Particularly after the Bees were beaten 2-1 by Fulham in the Championship play-off final .
Following the game , Brentford manager admitted there will be serious interest in their star assets .
“ We played a top season , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s of course natural that there is going to be interest , '' he told Sky Sports .
“ We know how Brentford works , so it 's likely one player will go but let 's see . ''
Aston Villa hold a major advantage in the race for Brentford double-act Said Benrahma and Ollie Watkins .
That ’ s according to pundit Noel Whelan , who thinks Dean Smith ’ s relationship with the pair could see them seal a deal over their Premier League rivals .
“ There could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going on but I think the one thing I think Villa have got in their favour is Dean Smith , who ’ s already coached Watkins and Benrahma , ” he told Football Insider .
“ I ’ m sure they ’ ve got a very good relationship with one another .
I think that will hold the cards and some weight when it comes to Ollie making that decision .
“ When you get good players like that in the Championship , it ’ s not too much of a gamble for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players.
” At the start of July , Benrahma 's friend and Moroccan international Fahd Moufi dropped a telling comment on social media .
During a live social media Q & A with fans on Instagram , Moufi , who grew up playing with Benrahma in France , posted : `` Congratulations on Chelsea my brother ... ''

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

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Aston Villa have been linked with Brentford winger Said Benrahma all summer.
The Algeria international is rumoured to have been a target for a number of Premier League clubs this summer including Arsenal, Chelsea, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham having enjoyed a stunning season in the Championship.
Benrahma used his first start of this season to score twice earlier this month, helping Brentford beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup and serve up a reminder of why he is one of the most talked about players outside the top-flight.
Here is the latest on Benrahma's situation ahead of the 5pm domestic transfer deadline.
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Benrahma 'fails West Ham medical'
Benrahma has reportedly failed his medical after West Ham agreed a £25million fee for his services with Brentford.
Our colleagues at the Mirror report: "The deal is not completely dead but the terms of the deal could be restructured with the player leaving for considerably less than the fee agreed.
"The issue is understood to relate to blood tests which have been submitted for 'reinvestigation'.
"West Ham learned the news early on Friday morning and have been working with Brentford to find a way to keep the deal alive."
The report adds there had been a falling out between Benrahma and Brentford over a financial issue earlier this week.
West Ham boss David Moyes, however, poured cold water on the suggestions at a press conference today.
He told football.london: "That's not correct [failing a medical]. We are still hopeful something can be done later today but I can't guarantee that. Part of his medical is ongoing."
Villa's stance
Smith wanted to be reunited with the Brentford flier last summer but Villa were not willing to meet the Bees' £20m asking price.
He has been heavily linked this year too, with reports earlier in the summer claiming Villa were ready to make their move.
Villa instead raided Brentford for Ollie Watkins, the striker joining in a club-record £28million deal to reunite with Dean Smith, and landed winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon making a move for Benrahma unlikely.
Late 'opportunity'
But the Telegraph reported this week that Villa have an 'opportunity' to follow up their long-held interest because of the complications West Ham are having in completing the transfer.
Benrahma is still able to move to the Premier League because of the extended domestic window which runs until 5pm today.
It was claimed the Bees are 'braced' for bids from other clubs.
Who else has been linked?
Villa and West Ham are far from alone in reportedly holding an interest over the course of the summer.
According to The Athletic, Leeds United were keen as part of their plans to upgrade Marcelo Bielsa's squad, and Crystal Palace had at one point been favourites for his signature.
Chelsea are thought to be long-term admirers while Arsenal have also been recently linked.
Benrahma 'wants £16m contract'
Benrahma wants a £16million contract to move to the Premier League.
The winger has been linked with a switch to the top-flight all summer and The Sun reported he is 'is looking for a basic of £60,000-a-week plus extras — and a five-year contract.'
(Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Benrahma responds to transfer talk
When asked earlier in the summer about the transfer speculation involving top-flight sides, he told Metro (via the Mirror): "I was really flattered.
"But, at the same time, I am so focused about getting out of the Championship with Brentford that I do not pay too much attention. But it gives me confidence.
"It has always been a target of mine to play in the Premier League and I really wish to play in the Premier League with Brentford.
"It would be magnificent for Brentford because it would be the first time and we have really been working hard on it."
Brentford boss quizzed on Benrahma's future
After the win against Fulham on October 1, Thomas Frank was quizzed on Benrahma's future again.
"Am I confident he will stay? I'm confident that I would love him to stay, and I would love to have him," Frank said.
"But I don't know. Honestly. If the price is right we are open to selling, but if not we will be happy for him to stay.
"Either we are going to get a top price or we are going to keep one of the best players in the Championship. Has he added a few million to his price? 100 per cent!"


birminghammail--2020-08-08--Aston Villa land spot in world's top 100 teams

Aston Villa have landed just outside the top 75 best teams in the world - pipped to the post by Brazilian side Gremio .
That 's according to FiveThirtyEight 's latest SPI rankings - which place Dean Smith 's Villans in 76th place .
The table of rankings are decided by the websites bespoke SPI ratings .
That rating is an estimate of a team ’ s overall strength , looking at both its defence capabilities and attacking power .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team has an offensive rating that represents the number of goals it would be expected to score against an average team on a neutral field , and a defensive rating that represents the number of goals it would be expected to concede .
These ratings , in turn , produce an overall SPI rating , which represents the percentage of available points — a win is worth 3 points , a tie worth 1 point , and a loss worth 0 points — the team would be expected to take if that match @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' explained FiveThirtyEight .
Villa still ranked above Newcastle , River Plate , Santos , Udinese , Union Berlin , Bordeaux , CSKA Moscow , Braga , Sampdoria , Beskitas , Rapid Vienna , Torino and Rangers , amongst others - but fell behind Brentford , Leeds United and Valencia - but only just .
Villa 's total SPI score this season registered at 65.6 based on an attacking strength of 1.8 and a defensive score of 0.9 ( the lower the better ) - the exact same as Gremio .
Leeds United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to gain 70.0 , while table toppers Manchester City scored 3.3 and 0.2 - worth 95.6 SPI , but not a Premier League title this season .

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Aston Villa have landed just outside the top 75 best teams in the world - pipped to the post by Brazilian side Gremio.
That's according to FiveThirtyEight's latest SPI rankings - which place Dean Smith's Villans in 76th place.
The table of rankings are decided by the websites bespoke SPI ratings. That rating is an estimate of a team’s overall strength, looking at both its defence capabilities and attacking power.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"In our system, every team has an offensive rating that represents the number of goals it would be expected to score against an average team on a neutral field, and a defensive rating that represents the number of goals it would be expected to concede. These ratings, in turn, produce an overall SPI rating, which represents the percentage of available points — a win is worth 3 points, a tie worth 1 point, and a loss worth 0 points — the team would be expected to take if that match were played over and over again," explained FiveThirtyEight.
Villa still ranked above Newcastle, River Plate, Santos, Udinese, Union Berlin, Bordeaux, CSKA Moscow, Braga, Sampdoria, Beskitas, Rapid Vienna, Torino and Rangers, amongst others - but fell behind Brentford, Leeds United and Valencia - but only just.
Villa's total SPI score this season registered at 65.6 based on an attacking strength of 1.8 and a defensive score of 0.9 (the lower the better) - the exact same as Gremio.
Leeds United tracked a score of 1.8 and 0.8 to gain 70.0, while table toppers Manchester City scored 3.3 and 0.2 - worth 95.6 SPI, but not a Premier League title this season.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Aston Villa and Leeds United sent transfer warning by Liverpool

Harry Wilson , the Liverpool winger who has been linked with moves to Aston Villa and Leeds United this summer , will not be allowed to leave Anfield unless it ’ s on a permanent deal .
Wilson , who spent last season on loan at relegated Bournemouth , is at a crossroads with the Reds ; having played regularly elsewhere in the last two seasons , the Welsh international now must decide to continue in his efforts to impress Jurgen Klopp , or source regular football with another club .
The ECHO report , though , that Wilson will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away from Merseyside - if he is to leave for Villa , Leeds or any other interested parties , it ’ ll be a permanent arrangement .
Klopp is planning for the new season with Wilson considered a first-team player , and the German is happy for him to remain at the club heading into the new season .
Liverpool , the Premier League champions , aren ’ t expected to want quite as much as initially thought for the 23-year-old , as there is an acknowledgement that many clubs have been impacted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are expected to look into strengthening the wide areas of their playing squad in the transfer window ; Dean Smith has utilised Trezeguet and Anwar El Ghazi this past season , while captain Jack Grealish has often taken up a role on the flanks .
Jota , the Spaniard signed from neighbours Birmingham City last summer , has been lesser spotted throughout the campaign and only made 14 appearances in all competitions , in his first term at Villa Park .

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Harry Wilson, the Liverpool winger who has been linked with moves to Aston Villa and Leeds United this summer, will not be allowed to leave Anfield unless it’s on a permanent deal.
Wilson, who spent last season on loan at relegated Bournemouth, is at a crossroads with the Reds; having played regularly elsewhere in the last two seasons, the Welsh international now must decide to continue in his efforts to impress Jurgen Klopp, or source regular football with another club.
The ECHO report, though, that Wilson will not be permitted a third loan move away from Merseyside - if he is to leave for Villa, Leeds or any other interested parties, it’ll be a permanent arrangement.
Klopp is planning for the new season with Wilson considered a first-team player, and the German is happy for him to remain at the club heading into the new season.
Liverpool, the Premier League champions, aren’t expected to want quite as much as initially thought for the 23-year-old, as there is an acknowledgement that many clubs have been impacted financially by the coronavirus pandemic.
Villa are expected to look into strengthening the wide areas of their playing squad in the transfer window; Dean Smith has utilised Trezeguet and Anwar El Ghazi this past season, while captain Jack Grealish has often taken up a role on the flanks.
Jota, the Spaniard signed from neighbours Birmingham City last summer, has been lesser spotted throughout the campaign and only made 14 appearances in all competitions, in his first term at Villa Park.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--'Wish I could have helped bro' Tributes  to man killed after car hit bus shelter

Touching floral tributes have been left at the scene where a man died after a car careered into a Dudley bus shelter .
Bouquets of flowers and card tributes have been left to 'Craig ' after the fatal smash in Sandyfields Road , Sedgley , at around 11.30pm on Friday , August 7 .
Dozens of emergency crews – including medics , fire crews and officers – were called to the roadside after reports the Ford Focus left the carriageway .
Despite the efforts of passers-by and emergency crews the driver in his 30s was , sadly , pronounced dead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been left at the crash site , which has left the community devastated .
One reads : `` Craig !
Wish I could have helped bro !
Love you , Mitch . ''
Another reads : `` Craig , a lovely young man .
Rest in Peace and God bless . ''
And a third penned : `` Deepest condolences .
Out thought and love are with you x x x x . ''
Det Sgt Paul Hughes , of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit , said : `` We are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do not believe any other vehicles were involved .
`` Our thoughts remain with this man 's family , as we continue to establish the exact circumstances of this incident .
`` I would urge anyone who was at the scene or may have information about the collision , who we have not yet spoken with , to get in touch with us .
`` Contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call 101 and please quote log 5244 of 7 August . ''

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Touching floral tributes have been left at the scene where a man died after a car careered into a Dudley bus shelter.
Bouquets of flowers and card tributes have been left to 'Craig' after the fatal smash in Sandyfields Road, Sedgley, at around 11.30pm on Friday, August 7.
Dozens of emergency crews – including medics, fire crews and officers – were called to the roadside after reports the Ford Focus left the carriageway.
Despite the efforts of passers-by and emergency crews the driver in his 30s was, sadly, pronounced dead at the scene.
The touching tributes have been left at the crash site, which has left the community devastated.
One reads: "Craig! Wish I could have helped bro! Love you, Mitch."
Another reads: "Craig, a lovely young man. Rest in Peace and God bless."
And a third penned: "Deepest condolences. Out thought and love are with you x x x x."
Det Sgt Paul Hughes, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "We are in the early stages of our investigations but we do not believe any other vehicles were involved.
"Our thoughts remain with this man's family, as we continue to establish the exact circumstances of this incident.
"I would urge anyone who was at the scene or may have information about the collision, who we have not yet spoken with, to get in touch with us.
"Contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call 101 and please quote log 5244 of 7 August."


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Aston Villa transfer news and rumours live

Aston Villa have been linked with a swap deal that would involve Callum Wilson pitching up at Villa Park and Scott Hogan heading to Bournemouth in the opposite direction .
Striker Wilson , who has played for England , could leave the Cherries this summer after their relegation to the Championship , and new boss Jason Tindall is on the look-out for a forward who knows the second tier and can provide goals - that brings Hogan into the equation .
Having spent the second half of the campaign at Blues , the striker netted seven goals between his arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find the net again after the restart .
Villa fans , eager to see signings that will prove to be upgrades on their existing squad , have been largely torn on the swap speculation .
Frank Malaga Lions : Not overly excited by Wilson Hogan swap link .
Needs to be right players in , not a deal sweetened by a player we ’ d like to shift .
Can Wilson play lone striker role ?
Has he ever ?
If not , it ’ s likely not true anyway .
Matt Quinn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upgrade but presume we ’ d be adding a fair amount of cash to the deal .
And not sure Watkins , Wilson and Wesley as potential striking options will take us to where we/the owners want .
James : Not sure Callum Wilson is the answer to our striking problems , he ’ s hit double figures once in the last 5 seasons in the PL , he ’ s 28 & on £60k a week , does have injury issues too Scott : If we offload Scott Hogan and sign Callum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eclipses the Jota/Gardner swap easily and gets somewhere close to when we sent Lyon a faulty Milan Baros and got back a fully functioning John Carew .
OP4C : Is Callum Wilson over hyped ?
Had really poor stats last season .
Haven ’ t seen enough of him to form a strong opinion Craig Baker : I ’ d be happy with this as we lack real pace and this would be a great option !
my only question would be does he fit our play ?
Paul Matts : Do it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ link up with Jack well .
He makes the right runs etc .
Daniel : Hogan to Bournemouth part of swap deal for Wilson , unlikely but would be brilliant business

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, James Rushton)

Hello and welcome to Sunday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
Right here, we'll be keeping you informed on all the key developments as Villa's transfer window ticks along.
All the latest Villa news, views rumours will be added to this live blog throughout the day, with new signings and transfers linked to the club.
Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma still remain the key targets for Villa following Brentford's play-off final defeat earlier in the the week - so will be keeping a close eye on the situation concerning those two players.
They are just two names on the list though - with incoming technical director Johan Lange is the man tasked with delving into the market on Villa's behalf this summer as he looks to arm Dean Smith with the tools he needs to keep the club in the Premier League again - as a centre-forward signing remains key to the club.
Jack Grealish continues to dominate Villa talk, the midfielder linked with a big money move away this summer with Manchester United and Arsenal both linked.
So stay with us on today's blog and be sure to check back for all the latest Villa transfer news and opinion.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Double stabbing after 'fight breaks out'

Police are investigating after two men were hurt in a double stabbing following a daylight fight .
The victims , aged 41 and 54 , were both found with stab wounds in Simcox Gardens , Bartley Green on Saturday evening , August 8 .
It is believed they were knifed after a fight broke out in the residential street at around 6.30pm .
Officers were called to the scene and the men were taken to hospital - where they remained in a stable condition in the wake of the incident .
Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man was arrested on suspicion of wounding .
He remained in police custody for questioning on Sunday morning .
Anyone who has information has been urged to get in contact with the police .
A statement from West Midlands Police read : `` Our officers were called to reports of a stabbing on Simcox Gardens , Bartley Green just after 6.30pm yesterday afternoon ( 8 August ) .
`` Two men , aged 41 and 54 , were found at the scene with stab wounds .
They were taken to hospital for treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thought to be life-threatening and they ’ re both in a stable condition .
`` Officers believe they were stabbed after a fight broke out .
A 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion wounding and remains in police custody .
`` Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information that might assist us with our investigation should get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or by calling 101 anytime .
`` To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
Tell them what you know , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ log 3795 of 08/08/20 . ''

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Police are investigating after two men were hurt in a double stabbing following a daylight fight.
The victims, aged 41 and 54, were both found with stab wounds in Simcox Gardens, Bartley Green on Saturday evening, August 8.
It is believed they were knifed after a fight broke out in the residential street at around 6.30pm.
Officers were called to the scene and the men were taken to hospital - where they remained in a stable condition in the wake of the incident.
Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, West Midlands Police said.
A 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding. He remained in police custody for questioning on Sunday morning.
Anyone who has information has been urged to get in contact with the police.
A statement from West Midlands Police read: "Our officers were called to reports of a stabbing on Simcox Gardens, Bartley Green just after 6.30pm yesterday afternoon (8 August).
"Two men, aged 41 and 54, were found at the scene with stab wounds. They were taken to hospital for treatment.
"Thankfully their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening and they’re both in a stable condition.
"Officers believe they were stabbed after a fight broke out. A 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion wounding and remains in police custody.
"Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information that might assist us with our investigation should get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or by calling 101 anytime.
"To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are. Please quote log 3795 of 08/08/20."


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Duffy and Albion: Chances of a deal and transfer competition

West Brom are discussing the possibility of signing centre half Shane Duffy ahead of their return to the Premier League .
The Irishman has been playing for Brighton and Hove Albion since they themselves made the jump into the top flight in 2017 , and had been a regular pick under Chris Hughton , before Graham Potter ’ s arrival last summer .
Albion are expected to step up their recruitment plans in the coming weeks ahead of the big kick off in September , having bid farewell to a host of influential loanees and senior stars who were out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is of interest to Albion has prompted quite a reaction from Baggies supporters .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ App Store Centre half was a position that was inevitably going to come under the microscope after Albion ’ s promotion .
Slaven Bilic was able to call on Ahmed Hegazi , Semi Ajayi and Kyle Bartley , and he utilised them all thoroughly throughout the course of the promotion winning campaign .
Strengthening that back-line with top flight pedigree was likely to be something Bilic , a former centre half himself , considered , however .
With Duffy 's compatriot Dara O ’ Shea , a natural centre back , also in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s potential Hawthorns arrival would likely mean another existing member of that department departs .
Quite strong , based on Potter ’ s wealth of options in that area of his squad .
Few sides in the top flight can boast such a group in one particular department , but the Seagulls have Lewis Dunk , Dan Burn , Adam Webster and Duffy currently , as well as new signing Joel Veltman and returning loanees Ben White and Matt Clarke .
Such a list means that Duffy faces a real battle to earn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the coming season , on the basis that all of the above remain at the club .
With such an embarrassment of riches , it ’ s likely Brighton would entertain offers .
What would he cost ?
Duffy , a full Ireland international , is 28 years old and as such you ’ d imagine he ought to be about to enter his best years as a centre half in the top flight .
Brighton spent around £4m on him to bring him to the south coast from his previous home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they ’ d be unquestionably looking to make a profit on that deal .
Alongside teammate and centre back partner Dunk , Duffy committed his long-term future to the club in 2018 , signing a contract that runs until the summer of 2023 - in that sense , Brighton hold all the cards .
Factor in that competition for Duffy is likely to come from West Ham and Duffy ’ s ex-Everton boss David Moyes , and there might be something of an auction that would drive up the price .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Albion around £10m , a figure that would appear reasonable when considering all of the above .
What has Duffy said ?
“ It ’ s not about me , ” Duffy told the Athletic , about his lack of game-time back in January .
“ It ’ s about this club trying to push forward and that ’ s what we want , the ambition is to be better than we have been in the last two years .
“ If that ’ s me not playing , then that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll keep my head down , crack on and , you never know , football changes quickly .
“ We ’ ve brought in high-quality players and they ’ ve been brilliant , so I can ’ t even knock on the manager ’ s door .
The centre-halves are a tight group .
`` It is what it is .
I know the situation , because I ’ ve kept a lot of players out in my career .
When I got dropped , I didn ’ t want to be one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ egg .
I try to support and encourage.
“

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West Brom are discussing the possibility of signing centre half Shane Duffy ahead of their return to the Premier League.
The Irishman has been playing for Brighton and Hove Albion since they themselves made the jump into the top flight in 2017, and had been a regular pick under Chris Hughton, before Graham Potter’s arrival last summer.
Albion are expected to step up their recruitment plans in the coming weeks ahead of the big kick off in September, having bid farewell to a host of influential loanees and senior stars who were out of contract.
The news that Duffy is of interest to Albion has prompted quite a reaction from Baggies supporters.
How does the land lie?
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
A case for the defence
Centre half was a position that was inevitably going to come under the microscope after Albion’s promotion.
Slaven Bilic was able to call on Ahmed Hegazi, Semi Ajayi and Kyle Bartley, and he utilised them all thoroughly throughout the course of the promotion winning campaign.
Strengthening that back-line with top flight pedigree was likely to be something Bilic, a former centre half himself, considered, however.
With Duffy's compatriot Dara O’Shea, a natural centre back, also in the first team picture, Duffy’s potential Hawthorns arrival would likely mean another existing member of that department departs.
Chances of Brighton sanctioning?
Quite strong, based on Potter’s wealth of options in that area of his squad.
Few sides in the top flight can boast such a group in one particular department, but the Seagulls have Lewis Dunk, Dan Burn, Adam Webster and Duffy currently, as well as new signing Joel Veltman and returning loanees Ben White and Matt Clarke.
Such a list means that Duffy faces a real battle to earn any regular minutes at the AMEX Stadium in the coming season, on the basis that all of the above remain at the club.
With such an embarrassment of riches, it’s likely Brighton would entertain offers.
What would he cost?
Duffy, a full Ireland international, is 28 years old and as such you’d imagine he ought to be about to enter his best years as a centre half in the top flight.
Brighton spent around £4m on him to bring him to the south coast from his previous home at Blackburn Rovers in 2016, so they’d be unquestionably looking to make a profit on that deal.
Alongside teammate and centre back partner Dunk, Duffy committed his long-term future to the club in 2018, signing a contract that runs until the summer of 2023 - in that sense, Brighton hold all the cards.
Factor in that competition for Duffy is likely to come from West Ham and Duffy’s ex-Everton boss David Moyes, and there might be something of an auction that would drive up the price.
It’s been mooted that Duffy might cost Albion around £10m, a figure that would appear reasonable when considering all of the above.
What has Duffy said?
“It’s not about me,” Duffy told the Athletic, about his lack of game-time back in January. “It’s about this club trying to push forward and that’s what we want, the ambition is to be better than we have been in the last two years.
“If that’s me not playing, then that’s the way it is. I’ll keep my head down, crack on and, you never know, football changes quickly.
“We’ve brought in high-quality players and they’ve been brilliant, so I can’t even knock on the manager’s door. The centre-halves are a tight group.
"It is what it is. I know the situation, because I’ve kept a lot of players out in my career. When I got dropped, I didn’t want to be one of those players who is a bad egg. I try to support and encourage.“


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Police officer dragged down road by drug dealer in shocking attack

A desperate drug dealer 'dragged an officer down a city street ' in a shocking overnight bid to escape police , it has been revealed .
The cop was pulled along Percy Road , Sparkhill for a short distance by the vehicle as the crook tried to get away on Saturday night ( August 8 ) .
He was left injured and was taken to hospital , though colleagues said he was thankfully not seriously hurt .
The 'shocking incident ' came amid a huge police operation to crackdown on county lines drug dealing .
An innocent motorist travelling on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a second 'drug dealer ' trying to evade capture during the same operation .
Stunned officers took to social media to share the 'desperation of city drug dealers ' who were willing to hospitalise an officer and ram a member of the public to escape justice .
They added that central motorway police , the regional organised crime unit and officers from Sparkbrook and Springfield teams joined forces with them for the operation .
`` A couple of genuinely shocking incidents following the desperation of drug dealers to get away .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Just demonstrates how care free and dangerous these people are .
Willing to ram a member of the public 's car and the second incident , drag an officer a short distance down the road and leaving him injured .
`` The officer thankfully is n't seriously injured but was taken to hospital .
Do n't tolerate drug dealers in our communities .
Anyone with information on county lines drug dealing was urged to report 'every detail ' to local officers on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously .

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A desperate drug dealer 'dragged an officer down a city street' in a shocking overnight bid to escape police, it has been revealed.
The cop was pulled along Percy Road , Sparkhill for a short distance by the vehicle as the crook tried to get away on Saturday night (August 8).
He was left injured and was taken to hospital, though colleagues said he was thankfully not seriously hurt.
The 'shocking incident' came amid a huge police operation to crackdown on county lines drug dealing.
An innocent motorist travelling on Blake Lane, Bordesley Green was rammed by a second 'drug dealer' trying to evade capture during the same operation.
Stunned officers took to social media to share the 'desperation of city drug dealers' who were willing to hospitalise an officer and ram a member of the public to escape justice.
Birmingham's organised crime unit wrote: "Yesterday evening were conducting a joint operation targeting County Lines drug dealing."
They added that central motorway police, the regional organised crime unit and officers from Sparkbrook and Springfield teams joined forces with them for the operation.
"A couple of genuinely shocking incidents following the desperation of drug dealers to get away. They simply don't care!"
"Just demonstrates how care free and dangerous these people are. Willing to ram a member of the public's car and the second incident, drag an officer a short distance down the road and leaving him injured.
"The officer thankfully isn't seriously injured but was taken to hospital. Don't tolerate drug dealers in our communities.
Anyone with information on county lines drug dealing was urged to report 'every detail' to local officers on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Buendia's pricetag has been set - and he makes perfect sense for Aston Villa

Norwich 's star playmaker Emiliano Buendia wants a return to the Premier League - but not necessarily with Daniel Farke 's side as the Argentine seeks a move away this summer following Norwich 's relegation .
Earlier this week the Press Association reported that Leeds United were targeting the forward , and that he was valued at around £20m .
Now , new reports state that the £20m valuation is the exact fee that the Canaries will demand for Buendia as they look to move forward without the player - enjoying their own solid start to recruitment for the upcoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Twitter that Leeds ' interest in the player continues - but they will be rivalled by Crystal Palace , revealing that Norwich will accept a £20m bid for the player .
Buendia - valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt - would make a fantastic addition to the majority of Premier League squads .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here For Villa , Buendia 's positioning and experience in the top-tier make him a fascinating proposition .
While a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the side ( and a needed one if Villa are to add depth and strength to their front-three ) , Jack Grealish 's ability to play in the middle and on the left make that position slightly less urgent .
A right winger fills a lot of immediate needs for the team despite Trezeguet 's growth .
The Norwich star can fill in for Villa 's midfield as well .
Winger purchases will be necessary for Villa at any rate .
Adding competition for Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet will be key to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the bench - or to start - will in an ideal world push both players to hit greater heights and in the case of the former truly achieve their heralded potential .
Quality starters will improve Villa at the front for obvious reasons .
And Buendia is that man - especially considering this latest news that he is available for purchase and would like a Premier League return .
He would surely fancy himself at a top-half club as well .
While plenty of teams including newly-promoted Leeds , and Villa themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is no reason why Buendia would call off a move to a club in the upper tier of the Premier League simply because there is more match minutes on offer at other teams .
That does n't mean Villa and Leeds are n't interesting options for him - especially the latter .
With the attraction of a legendary manager one well known to Buendia .
Still - there 's scope for the Villans to intervene and secure a strong talent in a position of need .
A strong offer should be made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the position available to the club that ticks all of the boxes .
According to the Press Association , Buendia created twenty-nine chances in December 2019 - which the website states is the most on record for a single calendar month in the history of the Premier League .
While Buendia was n't a goalscorer for the side - he scored one goal and that came after the restart - he was a key chance creator in the 20th placed team .
83 chances were created via key passes for Norwich by Buendia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the player , with 3.7 dribbles being made successfully by the playmaker in the same timeframe .
Comparing that to Jack Grealish ?
The Villa star made 2.5 chances via key passes per ninety minutes , and two successful dribbles per ninety .
And obviously - Grealish did very , very well this season in terms of goalscoring and assists , with Buendia notching seven himself compared to Grealish 's six and eight goals .
This alone - removing any further analysis - should be almost enough to convince most clubs to put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instant .
In Villa 's side , Grealish has became an all-rounder , and added plenty of goals to his game - while Buendia has focused on pure chance creation .
If Villa are to lose Grealish , having Buendia in place would go some way to removing the massive sting of failing to retain a leader and star player .
Plenty of clubs will be pondering the same idea though - and not least Leeds .
Buendia under Bielsa would be a delight - but for Villa , there 's an open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs should go all-in if the player is truly available for just over £20 million .
With Said Benrahma and Ollie Watkins on Villa 's radar , there 's nothing for them to lose by pushing in Buendia 's direction and placing that offer .
Either way , he 's moving somewhere .

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Norwich's star playmaker Emiliano Buendia wants a return to the Premier League - but not necessarily with Daniel Farke's side as the Argentine seeks a move away this summer following Norwich's relegation.
Earlier this week the Press Association reported that Leeds United were targeting the forward, and that he was valued at around £20m.
Now, new reports state that the £20m valuation is the exact fee that the Canaries will demand for Buendia as they look to move forward without the player - enjoying their own solid start to recruitment for the upcoming Championship season.
Alan Nixon has stated on Twitter that Leeds' interest in the player continues - but they will be rivalled by Crystal Palace, revealing that Norwich will accept a £20m bid for the player.
That should intrigue Aston Villa.
Buendia - valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt - would make a fantastic addition to the majority of Premier League squads.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
For Villa, Buendia's positioning and experience in the top-tier make him a fascinating proposition. While a left-winger would be a solid purchase for the side (and a needed one if Villa are to add depth and strength to their front-three), Jack Grealish's ability to play in the middle and on the left make that position slightly less urgent. A right winger fills a lot of immediate needs for the team despite Trezeguet's growth. The Norwich star can fill in for Villa's midfield as well.
Winger purchases will be necessary for Villa at any rate. Adding competition for Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet will be key to forward success for Villa. New options from the bench - or to start - will in an ideal world push both players to hit greater heights and in the case of the former truly achieve their heralded potential. Quality starters will improve Villa at the front for obvious reasons.
And Buendia is that man - especially considering this latest news that he is available for purchase and would like a Premier League return.
He would surely fancy himself at a top-half club as well. While plenty of teams including newly-promoted Leeds, and Villa themselves, could offer more playing time - there is no reason why Buendia would call off a move to a club in the upper tier of the Premier League simply because there is more match minutes on offer at other teams.
That doesn't mean Villa and Leeds aren't interesting options for him - especially the latter. With the attraction of a legendary manager one well known to Buendia.
Still - there's scope for the Villans to intervene and secure a strong talent in a position of need. A strong offer should be made for one of the better players in the position available to the club that ticks all of the boxes.
According to the Press Association, Buendia created twenty-nine chances in December 2019 - which the website states is the most on record for a single calendar month in the history of the Premier League.
While Buendia wasn't a goalscorer for the side - he scored one goal and that came after the restart - he was a key chance creator in the 20th placed team.
(Image: Getty Images)
83 chances were created via key passes for Norwich by Buendia - three per ninety minutes played by the player, with 3.7 dribbles being made successfully by the playmaker in the same timeframe.
Comparing that to Jack Grealish? The Villa star made 2.5 chances via key passes per ninety minutes, and two successful dribbles per ninety.
And obviously - Grealish did very, very well this season in terms of goalscoring and assists, with Buendia notching seven himself compared to Grealish's six and eight goals.
This alone - removing any further analysis - should be almost enough to convince most clubs to put an offer on Norwich's desk this instant. In Villa's side, Grealish has became an all-rounder, and added plenty of goals to his game - while Buendia has focused on pure chance creation.
If Villa are to lose Grealish, having Buendia in place would go some way to removing the massive sting of failing to retain a leader and star player. Plenty of clubs will be pondering the same idea though - and not least Leeds.
Buendia under Bielsa would be a delight - but for Villa, there's an open role and money to burn. Both clubs should go all-in if the player is truly available for just over £20 million.
With Said Benrahma and Ollie Watkins on Villa's radar, there's nothing for them to lose by pushing in Buendia's direction and placing that offer.
Either way, he's moving somewhere.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Burst water main leaves up to 3,000 homes without water

Up to 3,000 homes were affected by a burst water main which halted supply and flooded a `` handful '' of ground-floor flats in Northfield .
Up to 25 firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service are in attendance in the Bristol Road South area this morning .
Severn Trent said less than 1,000 properties are now thought to be without a water supply or are experiencing low pressure - but this will return to normal very quickly .
They said a small number of homes had been flooded and work was `` ongoing '' to aid those residents .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the Bristol Road South had burst , which feeds a large supply to the Northfield area .
`` We are massively sorry for anyone affected by this and are doing everything we can to make sure those people are being looked after , '' she told BirminghamLive .
The spokeswoman said ground-floor flats related to a `` handful of properties '' were flooded when it burst .
`` We 've got our customer teams and loss adjusters out there at the moment , '' she said .
`` We will do absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal as quickly as we can . ''
Asked about the scale of the stopped water supply , she said : `` A few thousand customers were affected originally .
Since then we have brought tankers full of water and injected it directly into the pipes outside the houses in the area .
`` We have also turned on valves so water can flow into the area from the surrounding areas , so more people have come back on .
`` There are still some people - less than 1,000 - who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are waiting for the system to refill from the surrounding areas and it should come back on very soon .
`` Our priority is to get people 's water supply back on .
Once everyone is back on we will then repair the pipe . ''
It may take several hours to prep and repair the pipe , Severn Trent said .
One lane on Bristol Road South will be closed while the repair job is carried out .
Severn Trent said some people may experience `` low pressure '' when their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is only `` temporary . ''
The spokeswoman also said `` harmless '' discoloured water from sediment may also be seen , but this will clear shortly .
The cause of the burst is `` still being investigated '' .
It is unclear if it has anything to do with the high temperatures over the last two days .

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Up to 3,000 homes were affected by a burst water main which halted supply and flooded a "handful" of ground-floor flats in Northfield.
Up to 25 firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service are in attendance in the Bristol Road South area this morning.
Severn Trent said less than 1,000 properties are now thought to be without a water supply or are experiencing low pressure - but this will return to normal very quickly.
They said a small number of homes had been flooded and work was "ongoing" to aid those residents.
A Severn Trent spokeswoman said an 18-inch pipe under the Bristol Road South had burst, which feeds a large supply to the Northfield area.
"We are massively sorry for anyone affected by this and are doing everything we can to make sure those people are being looked after," she told BirminghamLive.
The spokeswoman said ground-floor flats related to a "handful of properties" were flooded when it burst.
"We've got our customer teams and loss adjusters out there at the moment," she said. "We will do absolutely everything to get those people back to normal as quickly as we can."
Asked about the scale of the stopped water supply, she said: "A few thousand customers were affected originally. Since then we have brought tankers full of water and injected it directly into the pipes outside the houses in the area.
"We have also turned on valves so water can flow into the area from the surrounding areas, so more people have come back on.
"There are still some people - less than 1,000 - who have not got their water back on. We are waiting for the system to refill from the surrounding areas and it should come back on very soon.
"Our priority is to get people's water supply back on. Once everyone is back on we will then repair the pipe."
It may take several hours to prep and repair the pipe, Severn Trent said. One lane on Bristol Road South will be closed while the repair job is carried out.
Severn Trent said some people may experience "low pressure" when their supply does come on, but that is only "temporary."
The spokeswoman also said "harmless" discoloured water from sediment may also be seen, but this will clear shortly.
The cause of the burst is "still being investigated". It is unclear if it has anything to do with the high temperatures over the last two days.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--UK 'heading back into lockdown next month' when schools reopen

A senior scientist has warned that Britain is heading back into lockdown when schools reopen due to the UK 's current `` disastrous '' track and trace system , The Mirror reports .
Former government chief scientific adviser Sir David King said : “ We need a proper test and trace system by September .
Otherwise full school opening will put us right back.
” Sir David , 80 , who now heads the Independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies shadowing the Prime Minister ’ s scientific team added : “ The Government has a month to deal with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Reopening schools should be a priority , but we believe we are nowhere near the point where it can be done safely ... '' We will see the Government backing lockdowns and , yes , I do think this could happen nationally.
” He said the R rate of infection number is expected to rise by about 0.5 with all schools open .
Latest figures show the national rate to be between 0.8 and 1 - the maximum rate allowed - to prevent a rapid rise in infections .
Explaining why track @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Test and trace is still failing dramatically ... '' Tracing here is one phone call and you are asked to isolate .
There is no follow-up as to whether people do.
” He urged Boris Johnson to take track and trace from private firm Serco and let councils run it .
“ The Government made a disastrous mistake giving contact tracing to a firm with no healthcare expertise , ” he said .
“ The Serco contract is up for renewal this month .
They ’ ve had roughly £100million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £300 million if it ’ s extended .
This is not working .
`` When you hit 3,000 new cases a day , it ’ s an enormous number for any national body to deal with .
But break it down into local regions and the numbers become manageable.
” Sir David 's warning comes after the UK government imposed series of local lockdowns in areas including Preston and Leicester .
The West Midlands has not yet been affected with new restrictions following the almost four month UK lockdown .
However there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where there are significant number of infections across households - although there has been a `` big drop '' in recent cases .
Yesterday we reported an urgent appeal had gone out to find around 70 pub goers who attended a barbecue at Smethwick pub Soho Tavern after an outbreak of coronavirus .
Sandwell ’ s Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said : “ We urgently need to alert anyone who attended the event last weekend to self-isolate until Sunday 16 August .
If they have any symptoms they should book a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredibly vigilant - the virus is still out there and the situation remains extremely serious – as this potential outbreak shows.
” The Academy of Medical Sciences has estimated up to 120,000 people here could die of Covid-19 this winter .
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson told The Mirror : “ In just nine weeks NHS Test and Trace has tested over 3 million people for coronavirus and has reached almost a quarter of a million people who have either tested positive or have been in close contact with someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to break the chain of transmission .
“ Specially-trained call handlers work with national and local public health experts , NHS clinicians and local health protection teams , and play a vital role in helping to stop the spread of the virus .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Kelly Jenkins, Sanjeeta Bains)

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A senior scientist has warned that Britain is heading back into lockdown when schools reopen due to the UK's current "disastrous" track and trace system, The Mirror reports.
Former government chief scientific adviser Sir David King said: “We need a proper test and trace system by September. Otherwise full school opening will put us right back.”
Sir David, 80, who now heads the Independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies shadowing the Prime Minister’s scientific team added: “The Government has a month to deal with the level of infectivity as it stands now. Reopening schools should be a priority, but we believe we are nowhere near the point where it can be done safely...
"We will see the Government backing lockdowns and, yes, I do think this could happen nationally.”
He said the R rate of infection number is expected to rise by about 0.5 with all schools open. Latest figures show the national rate to be between 0.8 and 1 - the maximum rate allowed - to prevent a rapid rise in infections.
Explaining why track and trace is not working Sir David said: “Test and trace is still failing dramatically...
"Tracing here is one phone call and you are asked to isolate. There is no follow-up as to whether people do.”
He urged Boris Johnson to take track and trace from private firm Serco and let councils run it.
(Image: Getty Images)
“The Government made a disastrous mistake giving contact tracing to a firm with no healthcare expertise,” he said.
“The Serco contract is up for renewal this month. They’ve had roughly £100million so far. They’ll get £300 million if it’s extended. This is not working.
"When you hit 3,000 new cases a day, it’s an enormous number for any national body to deal with. But break it down into local regions and the numbers become manageable.”
Sir David's warning comes after the UK government imposed series of local lockdowns in areas including Preston and Leicester. The West Midlands has not yet been affected with new restrictions following the almost four month UK lockdown.
However there are serious concerns for the borough of Sandwell where there are significant number of infections across households - although there has been a "big drop" in recent cases.
Yesterday we reported an urgent appeal had gone out to find around 70 pub goers who attended a barbecue at Smethwick pub Soho Tavern after an outbreak of coronavirus.
Sandwell’s Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: “We urgently need to alert anyone who attended the event last weekend to self-isolate until Sunday 16 August. If they have any symptoms they should book a test.”
“Everyone needs to stay incredibly vigilant - the virus is still out there and the situation remains extremely serious – as this potential outbreak shows.”
The Academy of Medical Sciences has estimated up to 120,000 people here could die of Covid-19 this winter.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson told The Mirror: “In just nine weeks NHS Test and Trace has tested over 3 million people for coronavirus and has reached almost a quarter of a million people who have either tested positive or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive – in order to break the chain of transmission.
“Specially-trained call handlers work with national and local public health experts, NHS clinicians and local health protection teams, and play a vital role in helping to stop the spread of the virus.”


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Wolves set to sanction loan transfer ahead of the new season - reports

Sunderland are still working on a loan deal that will see them borrow new Wolves signing Matija Sarkic for the forthcoming season .
Wolves signed young goalkeeper Sarkic on a free transfer after he decided to leave Aston Villa this summer , and upon announcing the deal Jeff Shi confirmed : “ We are very happy to welcome Matija , who is a promising young goalkeeper with lots of potential .
We hope that he will be a success at Wolves and with his loan club next season.
” It appears as though Sunderland , who are preparing for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign , are the side at the front of the queue to borrow Montenegro international Sarkic .
The Black Cats were believed to want Sarkic on a permanent deal after his Villa departure , but Wolves managed to secure his services before all else .
They ’ re also looking to add Danny Graham , a former player of theirs , after he was let go by Blackburn , and former Everton left-back Luke Garbutt .
Wolves have Portugal number one Rui Patricio as their undisputed first choice between the sticks , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for another season at Molineux .

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Sunderland are still working on a loan deal that will see them borrow new Wolves signing Matija Sarkic for the forthcoming season.
Wolves signed young goalkeeper Sarkic on a free transfer after he decided to leave Aston Villa this summer, and upon announcing the deal Jeff Shi confirmed: “We are very happy to welcome Matija, who is a promising young goalkeeper with lots of potential. We hope that he will be a success at Wolves and with his loan club next season.”
It appears as though Sunderland, who are preparing for a League One promotion push in the forthcoming campaign, are the side at the front of the queue to borrow Montenegro international Sarkic.
The Black Cats were believed to want Sarkic on a permanent deal after his Villa departure, but Wolves managed to secure his services before all else.
They’re also looking to add Danny Graham, a former player of theirs, after he was let go by Blackburn, and former Everton left-back Luke Garbutt.
Wolves have Portugal number one Rui Patricio as their undisputed first choice between the sticks, while deputy John Ruddy has signed himself up for another season at Molineux.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Liverpool's Rhian Brewster could unlock Aston Villa striker deal - report

Liverpool 's key decision over the back-up forward role at Anfield will be of massive interest to Aston Villa - who have been linked with a move for Reds striker Divock Origi since the window opened .
Villa 's need for a new striker is well known - with the club hoping to upgrade their front three as the main goal of this current summer transfer window .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Bournemouth 's Callum Wilson and Brentford 's Ollie Watkins are two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a move to Villa Park , as well as the Belgian striker .
While new reports have tipped Wilson to transfer to Villa - by way of a swap deal for Scott Hogan , it is Origi who offers a very intriguing option for Villa , as a forward who has made an impact at the highest level .
In fact , the situation at Liverpool could be lining up perfectly for Villa - with Rhian Brewster emerging as a depth option for the club , and perhaps as someone who holds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pricetag .
Brewster impressed on-loan at Swansea City and made a massive impact .
The wonderkid scored ten goals in twenty games to help fire the Swans into the play-offs last season .
However , according to journalist Alan Nixon , Liverpool are n't too keen on sending Brewster out on loan right now , and could use him in their matchday squad if Origi is to leave .
That would mean that any loan deal a club has in mind for Brewster would n't come about unless Origi stays - but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be at all uncomfortable with relying on Brewster as a back-up option , potentially freeing Origi up for a move .
Brewster will likely be given a further chance to impress for Liverpool ahead of the new season , and if he does catch the eye of the Reds boss then an Origi deal would be far easier to agree for any suitors - including Villa .

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Liverpool's key decision over the back-up forward role at Anfield will be of massive interest to Aston Villa - who have been linked with a move for Reds striker Divock Origi since the window opened.
Villa's need for a new striker is well known - with the club hoping to upgrade their front three as the main goal of this current summer transfer window.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Bournemouth's Callum Wilson and Brentford's Ollie Watkins are two other recent targets who have been linked with a move to Villa Park, as well as the Belgian striker.
While new reports have tipped Wilson to transfer to Villa - by way of a swap deal for Scott Hogan, it is Origi who offers a very intriguing option for Villa, as a forward who has made an impact at the highest level.
In fact, the situation at Liverpool could be lining up perfectly for Villa - with Rhian Brewster emerging as a depth option for the club, and perhaps as someone who holds the key to Origi's future & pricetag.
Brewster impressed on-loan at Swansea City and made a massive impact. The wonderkid scored ten goals in twenty games to help fire the Swans into the play-offs last season.
However, according to journalist Alan Nixon, Liverpool aren't too keen on sending Brewster out on loan right now, and could use him in their matchday squad if Origi is to leave.
That would mean that any loan deal a club has in mind for Brewster wouldn't come about unless Origi stays - but it also hints that Jurgen Klopp wouldn't be at all uncomfortable with relying on Brewster as a back-up option, potentially freeing Origi up for a move.
Brewster will likely be given a further chance to impress for Liverpool ahead of the new season, and if he does catch the eye of the Reds boss then an Origi deal would be far easier to agree for any suitors - including Villa.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Karanka considering freebie Fox as Blues ramp up transfer plans

Defender Danny Fox could be reunited with Aitor Karanka at Birmingham City .
Fox is a free agent after leaving Wigan Athletic upon their relegation this past season , and has previously worked with new Blues boss Karanka at Nottingham Forest .
The centre-half , who has also played regularly at left-back in his career , is looking out for his next career move and that path could lead him to St Andrew ’ s , amid reports that Karanka is looking to sign him up ahead of the new campaign .
Fox , 34 , came through the ranks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most significant spells in the upper reaches of the league ladder have been with Forest , Southampton and Burnley .
He struggled with injuries this past campaign , however ; Fox played just 11 matches this past season after undergoing surgery on his groin earlier in the season .
Blues are on the look-out for defensive reinforcements , among other positions ; Jake Clarke-Salter ’ s return to parent club Chelsea after his loan spell has left them with just the senior centre halves in Marc Roberts and Harlee Dean .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest Blues news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and his email address is Brian.Dick @ reachplc.com After the departure of Lee Camp and loan exit of Connal Trueman , they ’ re also currently without a senior goalkeeper .
Jacques Maghoma , Kerim Mrabti , Moha Ramos , Jonathan Grounds , Cheick Keita , David Stockdale , Jefferson Montero , Jude Bellingham and Scott Hogan have also left the club , in one capacity or another , meaning that the existing group that Karanka has to work with is a particularly skinny one .
Blues will kick off their new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coincide with another Carabao Cup campaign .

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Defender Danny Fox could be reunited with Aitor Karanka at Birmingham City.
Fox is a free agent after leaving Wigan Athletic upon their relegation this past season, and has previously worked with new Blues boss Karanka at Nottingham Forest.
The centre-half, who has also played regularly at left-back in his career, is looking out for his next career move and that path could lead him to St Andrew’s, amid reports that Karanka is looking to sign him up ahead of the new campaign.
Fox, 34, came through the ranks at Liverpool and then Everton but his most significant spells in the upper reaches of the league ladder have been with Forest, Southampton and Burnley.
He struggled with injuries this past campaign, however; Fox played just 11 matches this past season after undergoing surgery on his groin earlier in the season.
Blues are on the look-out for defensive reinforcements, among other positions; Jake Clarke-Salter’s return to parent club Chelsea after his loan spell has left them with just the senior centre halves in Marc Roberts and Harlee Dean.
After the departure of Lee Camp and loan exit of Connal Trueman, they’re also currently without a senior goalkeeper.
Jacques Maghoma, Kerim Mrabti, Moha Ramos, Jonathan Grounds, Cheick Keita, David Stockdale, Jefferson Montero, Jude Bellingham and Scott Hogan have also left the club, in one capacity or another, meaning that the existing group that Karanka has to work with is a particularly skinny one.
Blues will kick off their new season in mid-September, which will also coincide with another Carabao Cup campaign.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Simon Cowell rushed to hospital after breaking his back

TV mogul Simon Cowell has broken his back while driving his new bike in Malibu , California .
He was rushed to hospital immediately and is believed to have undergone emergency surgery last night ( August 8 ) .
The 60-year-old was in his mansion grounds when the accident happened on Saturday afternoon .
Before he was taken to surgery , the star 's representative told People : `` Simon had a fall from his bike whilst testing his new electric bike in the courtyard at his house in Malibu with his family .
`` He hurt his back and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s doing fine , he ’ s under observation and is in the best possible hands . ''
According to the Sun newspaper , Simon 's girlfriend Lauren Silverman was also spotted on her own non-electric bicycle in Malibu hours earlier .
The couple are currently living in the US with their six-year-old son Eric .
Simon has spent the last year getting more active after a health scare two years ago .
In October 2017 he was hospitalised after a fall down the stairs at his London home .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lifestyle which consisted of “ living like a vampire ” and staying awake until 8am every morning .
PA reports that Simon 's Syco company recently bought Sony Music Entertainment 's stake in TV programmes Britain 's Got Talent and The X Factor - so he now owns all the international and super successful versions of The X Factor and Got Talent programmes .
The BGT format airs in 76 markets , while The X Factor is broadcast in more than 130 territories .
Due to the coronavirus crisis , filming for this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postponed but ITV has said it hopes to continue the series later this year .

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TV mogul Simon Cowell has broken his back while driving his new bike in Malibu, California.
He was rushed to hospital immediately and is believed to have undergone emergency surgery last night (August 8).
The 60-year-old was in his mansion grounds when the accident happened on Saturday afternoon.
Before he was taken to surgery, the star's representative told People : "Simon had a fall from his bike whilst testing his new electric bike in the courtyard at his house in Malibu with his family.
(Image: Getty Images)
"He hurt his back and was taken to the hospital. He’s doing fine, he’s under observation and is in the best possible hands."
According to the Sun newspaper, Simon's girlfriend Lauren Silverman was also spotted on her own non-electric bicycle in Malibu hours earlier. The couple are currently living in the US with their six-year-old son Eric.
Simon has spent the last year getting more active after a health scare two years ago. In October 2017 he was hospitalised after a fall down the stairs at his London home.
At the time he blamed his injuries on his lifestyle which consisted of “living like a vampire” and staying awake until 8am every morning.
PA reports that Simon's Syco company recently bought Sony Music Entertainment's stake in TV programmes Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor - so he now owns all the international and super successful versions of The X Factor and Got Talent programmes. The BGT format airs in 76 markets, while The X Factor is broadcast in more than 130 territories.
Due to the coronavirus crisis, filming for this year's Britain's Got Talent was postponed but ITV has said it hopes to continue the series later this year.


birminghammail--2020-08-09--'Huge' - Aston Villa fans torn on link with England international

Aston Villa have been linked with a swap deal that would involve Callum Wilson pitching up at Villa Park and Scott Hogan heading to Bournemouth in the opposite direction .
Striker Wilson , who has played for England , could leave the Cherries this summer after their relegation to the Championship , and new boss Jason Tindall is on the look-out for a forward who knows the second tier and can provide goals - that brings Hogan into the equation .
Having spent the second half of the campaign at Blues , the striker netted seven goals between his arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find the net again after the restart .
Villa fans , eager to see signings that will prove to be upgrades on their existing squad , have been largely torn on the swap speculation .
Frank Malaga Lions : Not overly excited by Wilson Hogan swap link .
Needs to be right players in , not a deal sweetened by a player we ’ d like to shift .
Can Wilson play lone striker role ?
Has he ever ?
If not , it ’ s likely not true anyway .
Matt Quinn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upgrade but presume we ’ d be adding a fair amount of cash to the deal .
And not sure Watkins , Wilson and Wesley as potential striking options will take us to where we/the owners want .
James : Not sure Callum Wilson is the answer to our striking problems , he ’ s hit double figures once in the last 5 seasons in the PL , he ’ s 28 & on £60k a week , does have injury issues too Why should you sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store Scott : If we offload Scott Hogan and sign Callum Wilson in the same movement then that eclipses the Jota/Gardner swap easily and gets somewhere close to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baros and got back a fully functioning John Carew .
OP4C : Is Callum Wilson over hyped ?
Had really poor stats last season .
Haven ’ t seen enough of him to form a strong opinion Craig Baker : I ’ d be happy with this as we lack real pace and this would be a great option !
my only question would be does he fit our play ?
Paul Matts : Do it .
Definitely do it .
He could link up with Jack well .
He makes the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bournemouth part of swap deal for Wilson , unlikely but would be brilliant business

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Aston Villa have been linked with a swap deal that would involve Callum Wilson pitching up at Villa Park and Scott Hogan heading to Bournemouth in the opposite direction.
Striker Wilson, who has played for England, could leave the Cherries this summer after their relegation to the Championship, and new boss Jason Tindall is on the look-out for a forward who knows the second tier and can provide goals - that brings Hogan into the equation.
Having spent the second half of the campaign at Blues, the striker netted seven goals between his arrival and lockdown, but didn’t find the net again after the restart.
Villa fans, eager to see signings that will prove to be upgrades on their existing squad, have been largely torn on the swap speculation.
Aston Villa fans offer verdict on Wilson/Hogan swap link
Frank Malaga Lions: Not overly excited by Wilson Hogan swap link. Needs to be right players in, not a deal sweetened by a player we’d like to shift. Can Wilson play lone striker role? Has he ever? If not, it’s likely not true anyway.
Matt Quinn: Obviously it’s a huge upgrade but presume we’d be adding a fair amount of cash to the deal. And not sure Watkins, Wilson and Wesley as potential striking options will take us to where we/the owners want.
James : Not sure Callum Wilson is the answer to our striking problems, he’s hit double figures once in the last 5 seasons in the PL, he’s 28 & on £60k a week, does have injury issues too
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Scott : If we offload Scott Hogan and sign Callum Wilson in the same movement then that eclipses the Jota/Gardner swap easily and gets somewhere close to when we sent Lyon a faulty Milan Baros and got back a fully functioning John Carew.
OP4C : Is Callum Wilson over hyped? Had really poor stats last season. Haven’t seen enough of him to form a strong opinion
Craig Baker : I’d be happy with this as we lack real pace and this would be a great option! my only question would be does he fit our play?
Paul Matts: Do it. Definitely do it. He could link up with Jack well. He makes the right runs etc.
Daniel : Hogan to Bournemouth part of swap deal for Wilson, unlikely but would be brilliant business


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Dean Smith on Benrahma, Watkins and Aston Villa's transfer strategy

Dean Smith indulged in a hectic shopping spree last summer to make Aston Villa Premier League ready following their promotion from the Championship .
Smith was backed to the hilt by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens as the club spent close to £120 million on 12 new signings , with another four arriving during the winter window .
Major surgery the Villa boss does not anticipate having to undertake this time round with a much smaller target of four or five players in his thinking .
Of the players linked so far this summer , two are very well-known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the biggest Villa stories straight to your inbox ?
Sign up at the top of this story or follow the instructions here Smith signed winger Said Benrahma and striker Ollie Watkins to Brentford .
He was naturally full of praise when speaking about them as a pundit during Sky Sports ' coverage of the Championship play-off final at Wembley .
Brentford 's defeat to Fulham makes the attacking pair far more realistic as transfer targets .
Smith is taking a well-earned break after a mammoth and emotionally draining relegation battle .
A roller-coaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wembley , this time for the Carabao Cup final .
But rest assured he 'll still be plotting ways to make his beloved Villa a tougher nut to crack next season in a bid to avoid any more final-day dramas .
Here 's what Smith said about Benrahma , Watkins and Villa 's transfer policy this summer before stepping out of the spotlight .
`` We were fortunate enough to see young Benrahma in the French second division on-loan from Nice , '' Smith told Sky Sports .
`` Really liked what I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It takes a while sometimes for people to adapt to a new country , but I was confident he 'd make an impact . ''
Brentford signed Benrahma after a loan spell at Châteauroux where he scored nine goals and set up a further five .
A fee under £3 million delivered 27 goals and 22 assists at Brentford over the last two seasons .
`` Young Ollie Watkins - I tried signing him a year earlier from Exeter City but he wanted to stay another year , '' Smith told Sky Sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra season at Exeter before eventually making the move to Brentford , and has n't looked back .
He 's hit double digit goal tallies in every season since .
`` I like that at even a young age he went on loan to Weston Super-Mare and scored fourteen odd goals there at a young age .
He 's got a great attitude and he does n't stop working .
He 's a joy to work with '' added Smith .
`` I played him a few times at striker .
I always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ striker , he likes playing off the left and we felt that was the best area for him to go and get goals - but we played him at centre-forward at Bristol City away and he ran them ragged .
`` Maupay came on and scored the winner and Ollie was disappointed that he did n't score .
That 's the sign for me of a top striker , he 'll do well . ''
`` A lot has been made of what we spent in the summer , but we had to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final-day draw at West Ham that spared his team relegation by a single point .
`` We had to build a new squad .
There were 12 players coming into the building .
`` I would have said this if we had stayed up or not - it 's £9.5m per player and we have lost some big players to injury this season .
`` I feel as the season has gone on , they have grown and become Premier League players .
We have to build on it and be smart in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last year we got promoted and we had 12 players out of contract and had to rebuild the squad .
Now we don ’ t have that .
We have lots of players under contract and only a handful not .
What we have to make sure is we are smart in what we recruit . ''

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Dean Smith indulged in a hectic shopping spree last summer to make Aston Villa Premier League ready following their promotion from the Championship.
Smith was backed to the hilt by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens as the club spent close to £120 million on 12 new signings, with another four arriving during the winter window.
Major surgery the Villa boss does not anticipate having to undertake this time round with a much smaller target of four or five players in his thinking.
Of the players linked so far this summer, two are very well-known to the former Brentford boss.
Want the biggest Villa stories straight to your inbox? Sign up at the top of this story or follow the instructions here
Smith signed winger Said Benrahma and striker Ollie Watkins to Brentford. He was naturally full of praise when speaking about them as a pundit during Sky Sports' coverage of the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
Brentford's defeat to Fulham makes the attacking pair far more realistic as transfer targets.
Smith is taking a well-earned break after a mammoth and emotionally draining relegation battle. A roller-coaster season that also encompassed another trip to Wembley, this time for the Carabao Cup final.
But rest assured he'll still be plotting ways to make his beloved Villa a tougher nut to crack next season in a bid to avoid any more final-day dramas.
Here's what Smith said about Benrahma, Watkins and Villa's transfer policy this summer before stepping out of the spotlight.
Said Benrahma
"We were fortunate enough to see young Benrahma in the French second division on-loan from Nice," Smith told Sky Sports.
"Really liked what I saw - he's got everything. It takes a while sometimes for people to adapt to a new country, but I was confident he'd make an impact."
(Image: PA)
Brentford signed Benrahma after a loan spell at Châteauroux where he scored nine goals and set up a further five.
A fee under £3 million delivered 27 goals and 22 assists at Brentford over the last two seasons.
Ollie Watkins
"Young Ollie Watkins - I tried signing him a year earlier from Exeter City but he wanted to stay another year," Smith told Sky Sports.
Watkins scored 13 goals during that extra season at Exeter before eventually making the move to Brentford, and hasn't looked back.
He's hit double digit goal tallies in every season since.
"I like that at even a young age he went on loan to Weston Super-Mare and scored fourteen odd goals there at a young age. He's got a great attitude and he doesn't stop working. He's a joy to work with" added Smith.
"I played him a few times at striker. I always said to him he'd be a striker, he likes playing off the left and we felt that was the best area for him to go and get goals - but we played him at centre-forward at Bristol City away and he ran them ragged.
"Maupay came on and scored the winner and Ollie was disappointed that he didn't score. That's the sign for me of a top striker, he'll do well."
Transfer strategy
"A lot has been made of what we spent in the summer, but we had to," said Smith after the dramatic final-day draw at West Ham that spared his team relegation by a single point.
"We had to build a new squad. There were 12 players coming into the building.
"I would have said this if we had stayed up or not - it's £9.5m per player and we have lost some big players to injury this season.
"I feel as the season has gone on, they have grown and become Premier League players. We have to build on it and be smart in our recruitment over the summer.
"Last year we got promoted and we had 12 players out of contract and had to rebuild the squad. Now we don’t have that. We have lots of players under contract and only a handful not. What we have to make sure is we are smart in what we recruit."


birminghammail--2020-08-09--Burst water main floods homes and stops supply causing havoc for city residents

A burst water main has flooded homes and stopped the water supply for residents causing havoc in Northfield this morning .
Up to 25 firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service are in attendance at Bristol Road South and New House Farm Drive .
Severn Trent Water is working to `` isolate '' the issue after it was reported in the early hours of Sunday , August 9 .
The fire service also advise people to avoid the area .
Water can be seen gushing around properties as the area is cordoned off by plastic barriers .
Taking to Twitter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are attending numerous properties which are flooded following a burst water main on Bristol Road South in Northfield .
We have around 25 firefighters including Water Rescue teams in attendance .
`` Severn Trent Water are currently working to isolate the burst water main at the incident Bristol Road South and New House Farm Drive our crews are supporting affected residents . ''
Severn Trent have apologised for any disruption caused to resident 's water supply .
`` This morning we have been advised of a burst water pipe along Bristol Road South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` We have dispatched our engineers to the location and hope to get the water back on to all customers as quickly as possible .
`` We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this may be causing , we will update this page as soon as we have more information .
`` Our teams are on site and working hard to get everything back to normal in the Birmingham area as quickly as possible .
We ’ re aware that a number of customers are experiencing supply interruptions still , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ways to re-route the water around the network to get supplies fully restored . ''
The firm said when water does start to return residents may notice that the supply is `` discoloured '' .
However , they say this is `` nothing to worry about and will clear overtime . ''

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A burst water main has flooded homes and stopped the water supply for residents causing havoc in Northfield this morning.
Up to 25 firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service are in attendance at Bristol Road South and New House Farm Drive.
Severn Trent Water is working to "isolate" the issue after it was reported in the early hours of Sunday, August 9. The fire service also advise people to avoid the area.
Water can be seen gushing around properties as the area is cordoned off by plastic barriers.
Taking to Twitter, the fire service said: "We are attending numerous properties which are flooded following a burst water main on Bristol Road South in Northfield. We have around 25 firefighters including Water Rescue teams in attendance.
"Severn Trent Water are currently working to isolate the burst water main at the incident Bristol Road South and New House Farm Drive our crews are supporting affected residents."
Severn Trent have apologised for any disruption caused to resident's water supply.
"This morning we have been advised of a burst water pipe along Bristol Road South," an update on their website said.
"We have dispatched our engineers to the location and hope to get the water back on to all customers as quickly as possible.
"We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this may be causing, we will update this page as soon as we have more information.
"Our teams are on site and working hard to get everything back to normal in the Birmingham area as quickly as possible. We’re aware that a number of customers are experiencing supply interruptions still, we’re now looking at different ways to re-route the water around the network to get supplies fully restored."
The firm said when water does start to return residents may notice that the supply is "discoloured". However, they say this is "nothing to worry about and will clear overtime."