birminghammail--2020-10-25--Kids' soft play centre halves its customers due to pandemic

Popular soft play centre Neverland Funhouse opened just a couple of months before the UK went into lockdown and Birmingham families loved it , with as many as 150 customers kids and parents visiting every day .
Then , like the rest of the UK , the Erdington business closed on March 23 .
However , it remained that way for much longer than pubs , restaurants and cinemas .
In fact , Penny Chalkidou , who runs the family business , was unable to re-open until August 10 , meaning she had no income from her new venture for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she had to ensure the number of customers she accepted reduced to less than half what it was before lockdown .
`` We worry every day about what is going to happen , '' said Penny , who is mum to Dimitra , seven , and Ionna , one , `` but we are trying to stay positive .
`` We were one of the last places to reopen and we were unlucky when it came to applying for grants .
We got nothing from the government .
`` Before we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from all different places to visit us , coming regularly from Solihull and Cannock to bring their kids to play .
We used to have around 120 to 150 children and parents every day , seven days a week from 9am to 6pm .
`` Now , we run a booking system and we only put out five or six tables and only accept 15 to 20 customers per slot .
This means the number of customers we can now accept has gone down to 60 to 70 per day , less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Neverland Funhouse is inspired by the Peter Pan story and features murals on the walls , trees 'growing ' in the cafe , a large soft play area and separate baby and toddler section .
The cafe , made to look like a ship with lights and a ship 's wheel , serves Greek salads , club sandwiches , paninis and burgers plus doughnuts , ice cream sundaes , cakes and homemade cheese pies plus coffee , 'Fredo cappuccinos ' and pots of tea .
The family invested large sums of money into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soft play centre before opening , money they had hoped to recoup when it became popular with customers .
• To keep updated on family news , like our Brummie Mummies Facebook page .
You can also sign up to our weekly Brummie Mummies email newsletter and our Lemon Aid newsletter here Since re-opening , Penny and her family have worked tirelessly to make their venue as safe as possible for children and parents .
This is clearly appreciated by families , many of whom are loyal customers and return on a regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eat Penny 's mum 's homemade cakes .
There 's also loyalty stamp schemes .
Find out more here '' We have a lot of loyal customers coming back all the time , '' said Penny , `` we sanitise the play area , cafe and toilets every one-and-a-half hours .
We 're reduced the number of people coming in and everyone must book in advance . ''
She added : `` As a result , people feel safe with us .
We 're busy but nothing like what we were like at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a worry financially but we 're trying to overcome our problems .
`` We spent a lot of money creating Neverland , with lots of handmade fixtures .
We 're not finished yet either , as we want to extend the theme outside too .
`` We get a lot of cancellations , which makes it difficult , because people are worried about the virus .
They want to go out with their kids but they 're thinking what will we do if someone there has the virus .
I 'd rather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
She added : `` Every day is a new day , you never know what is going to happen next .
For everyone , it is difficult .
I do n't want to think about the possibility of everything shutting down again .
But whatever happens , we 'll sort it .
If we have to close , we know that when we reopen our customers will come back again .
We 're trying to think positive . ''
There are special Halloween events planned for Neverland over October half term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lots of spooky decorations for families to enjoy .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Popular soft play centre Neverland Funhouse opened just a couple of months before the UK went into lockdown and Birmingham families loved it, with as many as 150 customers kids and parents visiting every day.
Then, like the rest of the UK, the Erdington business closed on March 23.
However, it remained that way for much longer than pubs, restaurants and cinemas.
In fact, Penny Chalkidou, who runs the family business, was unable to re-open until August 10, meaning she had no income from her new venture for four-and-a-half months.
And, upon reopening, she had to ensure the number of customers she accepted reduced to less than half what it was before lockdown.
"We worry every day about what is going to happen," said Penny, who is mum to Dimitra, seven, and Ionna, one, "but we are trying to stay positive.
"We were one of the last places to reopen and we were unlucky when it came to applying for grants. We got nothing from the government.
"Before we were really busy. People used to travel from all different places to visit us, coming regularly from Solihull and Cannock to bring their kids to play. We used to have around 120 to 150 children and parents every day, seven days a week from 9am to 6pm.
"Now, we run a booking system and we only put out five or six tables and only accept 15 to 20 customers per slot. This means the number of customers we can now accept has gone down to 60 to 70 per day, less than half what it was before."
Neverland Funhouse is inspired by the Peter Pan story and features murals on the walls, trees 'growing' in the cafe, a large soft play area and separate baby and toddler section.
The cafe, made to look like a ship with lights and a ship's wheel, serves Greek salads, club sandwiches, paninis and burgers plus doughnuts, ice cream sundaes, cakes and homemade cheese pies plus coffee, 'Fredo cappuccinos' and pots of tea.
The family invested large sums of money into creating an 'enchanted forest' at the soft play centre before opening, money they had hoped to recoup when it became popular with customers.
• To keep updated on family news, like our Brummie Mummies Facebook page. You can also sign up to our weekly Brummie Mummies email newsletter and our Lemon Aid newsletter here
Since re-opening, Penny and her family have worked tirelessly to make their venue as safe as possible for children and parents.
This is clearly appreciated by families, many of whom are loyal customers and return on a regular basis to play, drink coffee and eat Penny's mum's homemade cakes. There's also loyalty stamp schemes. Find out more here
"We have a lot of loyal customers coming back all the time," said Penny, "we sanitise the play area, cafe and toilets every one-and-a-half hours. We're reduced the number of people coming in and everyone must book in advance."
She added: "As a result, people feel safe with us. We're busy but nothing like what we were like at the start of the year. It's a worry financially but we're trying to overcome our problems.
"We spent a lot of money creating Neverland, with lots of handmade fixtures. We're not finished yet either, as we want to extend the theme outside too.
"We get a lot of cancellations, which makes it difficult, because people are worried about the virus. They want to go out with their kids but they're thinking what will we do if someone there has the virus. I'd rather not be busy and keep everyone safe."
She added: "Every day is a new day, you never know what is going to happen next. For everyone, it is difficult. I don't want to think about the possibility of everything shutting down again. But whatever happens, we'll sort it. If we have to close, we know that when we reopen our customers will come back again. We're trying to think positive."
There are special Halloween events planned for Neverland over October half term, with arts and crafts on offer and lots of spooky decorations for families to enjoy.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Pundit makes Grealish claim after Villa defeat to Leeds United

Former Aston Villa defender Martin Keown believes that Jack Grealish is even better shape fitness wise than he was last season , after watching him perform against Leeds United on Friday evening .
Captain Grealish has been a significant reason as to why Villa have , prior to this past Friday , flourished in the early stages of the season .
Though the Lions were well beaten by newly promoted Leeds , thanks to Patrick Bamford ’ s second half hat-trick , there was a moment when Grealish carried the ball from his own box into the visitors ’ area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot away .
Leeds stopper Ilan Meslier was equal to his attempt , and Keown thinks that had Grealish found the net then the match would ’ ve had a very different outcome .
Nevertheless , he ’ s been impressed by the skipper ’ s displays thus far and sees physical improvements in his game .
“ He uses his body very well and he is very strong , ” Keown told Football Focus .
“ I feel he is fitter now as well .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '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 “ He slows his opponent down and he knows where he wants to go , and you can not stop him .
“ But , in the end , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young kid , this French player , he is fantastic .
He just stands up brilliantly .
And that was the defining moment of the game .
If they had scored at that point then it could have been different .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Former Aston Villa defender Martin Keown believes that Jack Grealish is even better shape fitness wise than he was last season, after watching him perform against Leeds United on Friday evening.
Captain Grealish has been a significant reason as to why Villa have, prior to this past Friday, flourished in the early stages of the season.
Though the Lions were well beaten by newly promoted Leeds, thanks to Patrick Bamford’s second half hat-trick, there was a moment when Grealish carried the ball from his own box into the visitors’ area, jinking past challenges before getting his shot away.
Leeds stopper Ilan Meslier was equal to his attempt, and Keown thinks that had Grealish found the net then the match would’ve had a very different outcome.
Nevertheless, he’s been impressed by the skipper’s displays thus far and sees physical improvements in his game.
“He uses his body very well and he is very strong,” Keown told Football Focus. “I feel he is fitter now as well.
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
“He slows his opponent down and he knows where he wants to go, and you cannot stop him.
“But, in the end, this goalkeeper [Ilan Meslier], this young kid, this French player, he is fantastic. He just stands up brilliantly. And that was the defining moment of the game. If they had scored at that point then it could have been different.”


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Reaction to Hegazi transfer reflects Albion feeling towards him

During his time at the club , there were few players who divided the West Brom fanbase more than Ahmed Hegazi .
The towering defender has completed a move to Al-Ittihad , of Saudi Arabia , ahead of their transfer deadline , and he brings to an end a stay in the Black Country that has lasted a little over three years .
The bounce between divisions while Hegazi was at The Hawthorns in many ways reflects the collective feeling of the supporters towards him - they couldn ’ t decide which camp they ’ re in .
The reaction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night involved lots of fans being delighted to be getting the most expensive player at the club off the wage bill before January ’ s window opens .
Others were raging at the idea that Albion , seemingly in for a long season unless the next set of fixtures can deliver fresh optimism , are parting with a defender who has just helped Slaven Bilic ’ s side to their first clean sheet of the campaign in his first outing of the season - and the inability to immediately replace him .
Granted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes every week - Ivanovic and Hegazi could ’ ve been there all night clearing aerial dangers - but that display , coupled with Bilic ’ s insistence that he ’ d be staying before Brighton tomorrow , makes the imminent move rather awkward .
Yet it was quite clear that ‘ offloads ’ were required in the summer to help balance the books , and that fringe trimming didn ’ t quite go to plan .
Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '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 Purely from a business perspective , it ’ s a deal that makes perfect sense ; Albion have shifted out a player who eats into their budget and who , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charge , has never ever been a first pick .
Hegazi might ’ ve looked the part in a battle against strikers who matched his own abilities , but there are other very different threats on the horizon which involve the ball being won on the floor and not in the air .
And in Semi Ajayi and Dara O ’ Shea , Albion have promising young defenders who can really benefit from having Branislav Ivanovic alongside them .
What ’ s more pertinent , at this stage , is whether Bilic was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sale outside of the window ; he spoke publicly just this week of his desire to retain Hegazi and talked him up as one of his more important players in the squad , one who possessed top flight experience .
That previous experience , of course , was in a side who finished at the bottom of the Premier League table .
Perhaps a parting of the ways is the right move - provided the senior figures at the club are in agreement that they ’ re suitably stocked in the centre half @ @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
During his time at the club, there were few players who divided the West Brom fanbase more than Ahmed Hegazi.
The towering defender has completed a move to Al-Ittihad, of Saudi Arabia, ahead of their transfer deadline, and he brings to an end a stay in the Black Country that has lasted a little over three years.
The bounce between divisions while Hegazi was at The Hawthorns in many ways reflects the collective feeling of the supporters towards him - they couldn’t decide which camp they’re in.
The reaction to the news that broke this Sunday night involved lots of fans being delighted to be getting the most expensive player at the club off the wage bill before January’s window opens.
Others were raging at the idea that Albion, seemingly in for a long season unless the next set of fixtures can deliver fresh optimism, are parting with a defender who has just helped Slaven Bilic’s side to their first clean sheet of the campaign in his first outing of the season - and the inability to immediately replace him.
Granted, Albion won’t be playing Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes every week - Ivanovic and Hegazi could’ve been there all night clearing aerial dangers - but that display, coupled with Bilic’s insistence that he’d be staying before Brighton tomorrow, makes the imminent move rather awkward.
Yet it was quite clear that ‘offloads’ were required in the summer to help balance the books, and that fringe trimming didn’t quite go to plan.
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 .
Purely from a business perspective, it’s a deal that makes perfect sense; Albion have shifted out a player who eats into their budget and who, in the time Bilic has been in charge, has never ever been a first pick.
Hegazi might’ve looked the part in a battle against strikers who matched his own abilities, but there are other very different threats on the horizon which involve the ball being won on the floor and not in the air.
And in Semi Ajayi and Dara O’Shea, Albion have promising young defenders who can really benefit from having Branislav Ivanovic alongside them.
poll loading Where will Albion finish in the Premier League this season? 11000+ VOTES SO FAR 1st - 6th 7th - 12th 13th - 17th Relegation zone
What’s more pertinent, at this stage, is whether Bilic was happy enough with the sanctioning of the sale outside of the window; he spoke publicly just this week of his desire to retain Hegazi and talked him up as one of his more important players in the squad, one who possessed top flight experience.
That previous experience, of course, was in a side who finished at the bottom of the Premier League table.
Perhaps a parting of the ways is the right move - provided the senior figures at the club are in agreement that they’re suitably stocked in the centre half department until at least January.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Nuno left angry with Wolves wall for Newcastle equaliser

Nuno Espirito Santo has lamented the set-up of the Wolverhampton Wanderers wall which allowed Jacob Murphy to net a last-gasp equaliser for Newcastle United .
It looked as though Raul Jimenez ’ s stunning strike was going to give Wolves a third successive 1-0 win but Murphy squeezed a free-kick past Rui Patricio in the 89th minute to steal a point .
Patricio will be disappointed with the goal having got a hand to Murphy ’ s strike , but Nuno ’ s main gripe afterwards was with those in the wall .
“ If it goes over the wall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but it can not go that side of the goal , ” said Nuno .
“ We made a mistake with the set-up of the wall and we conceded.
” Wolves missed other chances before Jimenez opened the scoring with Pedro Neto and Daniel Podence going close .
But their inability to kill off a Newcastle team which created very little of their own cost them in the end .
“ We were patient , ” Nuno added .
“ We played well with the ball , moved them and were able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All the game we were in control , managing well and always being very organised .
We had good spells of possession and good moments in the second half .
“ It was a good goal but it ’ s disappointing because we made a mistake in the final moments of the game that punishes us a lot.
” For the second game in a row summer signing Vitinha was omitted from the 18-man squad .
The Portuguese midfielder travelled to the ground with the team but did n't make the cut .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a selection decision rather than an injury to the 20-year-old .
`` Joao ( Moutinho ) played last game , he played very well.
, and today we decided to start with Ruben ( Neves ) .
I think it ’ s good for us that we have two quality players to choose from . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Nuno Espirito Santo has lamented the set-up of the Wolverhampton Wanderers wall which allowed Jacob Murphy to net a last-gasp equaliser for Newcastle United.
It looked as though Raul Jimenez’s stunning strike was going to give Wolves a third successive 1-0 win but Murphy squeezed a free-kick past Rui Patricio in the 89th minute to steal a point.
Patricio will be disappointed with the goal having got a hand to Murphy’s strike, but Nuno’s main gripe afterwards was with those in the wall.
“If it goes over the wall then we have to deal with that, but it cannot go that side of the goal,” said Nuno. “We made a mistake with the set-up of the wall and we conceded.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Wolves missed other chances before Jimenez opened the scoring with Pedro Neto and Daniel Podence going close.
But their inability to kill off a Newcastle team which created very little of their own cost them in the end.
“We were patient,” Nuno added. “We played well with the ball, moved them and were able to break them many times.
“All the game we were in control, managing well and always being very organised. We had good spells of possession and good moments in the second half.
“It was a good goal but it’s disappointing because we made a mistake in the final moments of the game that punishes us a lot.”
For the second game in a row summer signing Vitinha was omitted from the 18-man squad. The Portuguese midfielder travelled to the ground with the team but didn't make the cut.
Nuno suggested post-match that it was purely a selection decision rather than an injury to the 20-year-old.
"Joao (Moutinho) played last game, he played very well., and today we decided to start with Ruben (Neves). I think it’s good for us that we have two quality players to choose from."


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Player ratings as Neto stars in frustrating 1-1 with Newcastle

Wolverhampton Wanderers had to settle for another 1-1 draw with Newcastle United despite Raul Jimenez ’ s stunning strike giving them the lead late on .
Jimenez netted superbly in the 81st minute at Molineux but Newcastle levelled eight minutes later as Jacob Murphy scored a free-kick .
Since Wolves ’ return to the Premier League they have failed to score in the first half in 58 of their 82 matches so you could forgive fans for switching on their TVs at half-time .
Predictably , Wolves didn ’ t find the net in the opening 45 minutes against Newcastle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want of trying .
They made most of the early running with Daniel Podence testing Karl Darlow inside five minutes .
The diminutive Portuguese looked the most likely man to break the deadlock but Newcastle , who deployed a five-at-the-back system , held firm .
Podence created a big chance for Pedro Neto at the start of the second half but the younger of the two Portuguese wingers fired over the bar from 12 yards .
Podence showed more accuracy after weaving his way past several defenders inside the box but Federico Fernandez @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Argentine ’ s arm but referee Lee Mason didn ’ t entertain awarding Wolves a penalty .
Wolves did find the breakthrough though and it was from a reliable source .
Jimenez with his fourth goal of the campaign and he might not score a better one this season .
Neto ’ s free-kick fell to him on the edge of the box and he returned it with interest , smashing a volley past Darlow .
But Newcastle found an unlikely equaliser at the death as Murphy beat Rui Patricio at his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves tried to rally and go again but Murphy ’ s strike was enough to ensure another 1-1 draw between the two teams .
Reacted well to change direction and stop Saint-Maximin ’ s shot at the end of the first half after it took a wicked deflection .
But he ’ ll be bitterly disappointed with the part he played in Newcastle ’ s leveller as Murphy ’ s free-kick squirmed in at the near post .
The wall was poorly set up but Patricio should have kept it out after getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was rarely troubled on the right of Wolves ’ back three and held it together comfortably while Semedo attacked in front of him .
The loudest man on the pitch , as always , and stood up to the test provided by England colleague Callum Wilson .
Wolves looked very solid until Coady conceded a free-kick on the edge of the box which Murphy buried .
In the captain 's defence , the award of the free-kick looked a little soft .
Another very assured display from the young defender on his third @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kilman stepped out of defence with ease on numerous occasions and now looks at home at this level .
This was possibly Semedo ’ s most complete performance to date .
He showed plenty of his qualities , both offensively and defensively , during the first half and linked up with Neto successfully .
He is , however , still tiring late on in games and needs time to build up his fitness .
He heads the ball , he wins it back and Wolves ’ Belgian midfielder never gives it away either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
According to WhoScored , Dendoncker completed 100 per cent of the passes he attempted against the Magpies .
It was telling that Neves was replaced by Moutinho late on , with Dendoncker now the main man in midfield .
Neves set the tempo for Wolves right from the off - everything went through him in midfield .
No player had more touches of the ball or completed more passes for Wolves .
He ensured Wolves kept passing the ball and attempting to work their way through and eventually that patience paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t overly worked defensively and struggled to influence the game going forward before he was replaced by Marcal .
Neto produced an excellent performance and it should have yielded three points for Wolves .
He missed a good chance at the start of the second half but continued to plug away and create chances for his teammates .
It was his free-kick which led to Jimenez 's goal .
The Mexican was the quietest of Wolves ’ forwards on the day but came up trumps with an absolutely sublime goal which almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ d missed two half chances already and this wasn ’ t anything more than that either , but Jimenez lashed the ball past Darlow from the edge of the box after Neto ’ s free-kick was headed away .
Wolves ’ little winger was their most creative spark during a difficult first half against a Newcastle side who sat deep .
Podence sent Murphy back to Newcastle with one rapid change of direction and skinned the same player again for a second time 30 seconds later .
He took a few kicks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took revenge on the Newcastle defender by giving him the Murphy treatment towards the end of the half .
Podence started the second half brightly with an accurate pass to Neto who fired over , while he danced between three players before firing a shot against the arm of Fernandez .
Added impetus and energy going forward down the left .
Far more naturally suited to wing-back than Saiss .
Struggled to make an impact and was well marshalled by Lewis .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Wolverhampton Wanderers had to settle for another 1-1 draw with Newcastle United despite Raul Jimenez’s stunning strike giving them the lead late on.
Jimenez netted superbly in the 81st minute at Molineux but Newcastle levelled eight minutes later as Jacob Murphy scored a free-kick.
Since Wolves’ return to the Premier League they have failed to score in the first half in 58 of their 82 matches so you could forgive fans for switching on their TVs at half-time.
Predictably, Wolves didn’t find the net in the opening 45 minutes against Newcastle but it wasn’t for a want of trying.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
They made most of the early running with Daniel Podence testing Karl Darlow inside five minutes. The diminutive Portuguese looked the most likely man to break the deadlock but Newcastle, who deployed a five-at-the-back system, held firm.
Podence created a big chance for Pedro Neto at the start of the second half but the younger of the two Portuguese wingers fired over the bar from 12 yards.
Podence showed more accuracy after weaving his way past several defenders inside the box but Federico Fernandez got in the way. It struck the Argentine’s arm but referee Lee Mason didn’t entertain awarding Wolves a penalty.
Wolves did find the breakthrough though and it was from a reliable source. Jimenez with his fourth goal of the campaign and he might not score a better one this season.
Neto’s free-kick fell to him on the edge of the box and he returned it with interest, smashing a volley past Darlow.
But Newcastle found an unlikely equaliser at the death as Murphy beat Rui Patricio at his near post with a low free-kick.
Wolves tried to rally and go again but Murphy’s strike was enough to ensure another 1-1 draw between the two teams.
Rui Patricio 5
Reacted well to change direction and stop Saint-Maximin’s shot at the end of the first half after it took a wicked deflection.
But he’ll be bitterly disappointed with the part he played in Newcastle’s leveller as Murphy’s free-kick squirmed in at the near post. The wall was poorly set up but Patricio should have kept it out after getting a hand to it.
Willy Boly 6
The Frenchman was rarely troubled on the right of Wolves’ back three and held it together comfortably while Semedo attacked in front of him.
Conor Coady 6
The loudest man on the pitch, as always, and stood up to the test provided by England colleague Callum Wilson.
Wolves looked very solid until Coady conceded a free-kick on the edge of the box which Murphy buried. In the captain's defence, the award of the free-kick looked a little soft.
Max Kilman 7
Another very assured display from the young defender on his third consecutive start in the Premier League. Kilman stepped out of defence with ease on numerous occasions and now looks at home at this level.
Nelson Semedo 7
This was possibly Semedo’s most complete performance to date. He showed plenty of his qualities, both offensively and defensively, during the first half and linked up with Neto successfully.
He is, however, still tiring late on in games and needs time to build up his fitness.
Leander Dendoncker 7
He heads the ball, he wins it back and Wolves’ Belgian midfielder never gives it away either (well, against Newcastle anyway!).
According to WhoScored, Dendoncker completed 100 per cent of the passes he attempted against the Magpies. It was telling that Neves was replaced by Moutinho late on, with Dendoncker now the main man in midfield.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on 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
Ruben Neves 7
Neves set the tempo for Wolves right from the off - everything went through him in midfield. No player had more touches of the ball or completed more passes for Wolves.
He ensured Wolves kept passing the ball and attempting to work their way through and eventually that patience paid off with the opener.
Romain Saiss 6
Saiss wasn’t overly worked defensively and struggled to influence the game going forward before he was replaced by Marcal.
Pedro Neto 8
Neto produced an excellent performance and it should have yielded three points for Wolves.
He missed a good chance at the start of the second half but continued to plug away and create chances for his teammates. It was his free-kick which led to Jimenez's goal.
Raul Jimenez 7
The Mexican was the quietest of Wolves’ forwards on the day but came up trumps with an absolutely sublime goal which almost secured another three points.
He’d missed two half chances already and this wasn’t anything more than that either, but Jimenez lashed the ball past Darlow from the edge of the box after Neto’s free-kick was headed away.
Daniel Podence 7
Wolves’ little winger was their most creative spark during a difficult first half against a Newcastle side who sat deep.
Podence sent Murphy back to Newcastle with one rapid change of direction and skinned the same player again for a second time 30 seconds later.
He took a few kicks, most notably from Schar, but he took revenge on the Newcastle defender by giving him the Murphy treatment towards the end of the half.
Podence started the second half brightly with an accurate pass to Neto who fired over, while he danced between three players before firing a shot against the arm of Fernandez.
SUBS
Marcal (for Saiss, 68) 6
Added impetus and energy going forward down the left. Far more naturally suited to wing-back than Saiss.
Adama Traore (for Podence, 68) 5
Struggled to make an impact and was well marshalled by Lewis.
Joao Moutinho (for Neves, 82) N/A
Not used: Ruddy, Hoever, Ait-Nouri, Silva


birminghammail--2020-10-25--'Free agents?' - West Brom fans split on impending Hegazi sale

Ahmed Hegazi appears set to head out of the West Bromwich Albion exit door imminently - and the Baggies fanbase seems to be quite split as to whether it ’ s the right call or the wrong decision .
Hegazi , whose Albion contract runs until 2022 , is expected to join Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad before their transfer deadline in a deal that is expected to see Albion recoup what they spent on the Egyptian defender in December 2017 .
The development comes only days after Slaven Bilic outlined his hopes that Hegazi would remain at The Hawthorns .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was in Saudi also for a short spell , ” Bilic said on Thursday , when asked about the speculation .
“ There has been an interest from Saudi since I came to the club last season .
“ He ’ s a good player , and he ’ s from Egypt which makes him a bit more interesting for the clubs from Saudi .
“ But like last year , he wants to stay here .
He ’ s a good player , he ’ s playing and I ’ m glad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t want him to go last year .
This season I like him , he ’ s a top professional .
He ’ s one of the few lads in our team who has Premier League experience .
“ That ’ s important .
He ’ s very experienced , a very quality player and it ’ s good to have him in the squad.
” Yet it appears as though Hegazi will indeed be making for Saudi Arabia in the near future , from where he has been offered a tempting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store West Brom fans have their say on imminent Hegazi sale Ali : Whilst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after he played his first game of the season last week , I ’ ve got no issues with Hegazi going .
Don ’ t understand what so many see in him to be honest .
Dan : Surprised to see Hegazi going , but if he really is on 70k a week and we ’ re also getting £4m for him .
So , I understand why we ’ re selling him .
Just odd when Bilic seemed so confident saying how he was going nowhere the other day .
Martyn Walters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hegazi leaving I ’ m not too fussed tbh .
We recoup most of the money we paid for him and prior to last Monday he wasn ’ t starting many games either .
Lee Armstrong : If Hegazi goes.. we ’ ll have to be bringing in some free agent surely Luke Mason : Whatever you may think of Hegazi .
Do not see the logic in having less options at this stage .
Jon Simonian : Hegazi off to Saudi Arabia it seems ... strange one but another off the wage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for him to go Sam Wilkinson : Wrong decision personally .
One of our better defenders imo .
Ross Nickless : Hegazi imo is the best defender we ’ ve got at the club and we ’ re selling him ?
Ryan : Say if we played Brighton or a team of that ilk last week who have quick strikers , would we have played Hegazi ?
I don ’ t think we would ’ ve , but given Burnley ’ s style it made sense to .
Shame to see him leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fancy him and the money is decent i suppose

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Ahmed Hegazi appears set to head out of the West Bromwich Albion exit door imminently - and the Baggies fanbase seems to be quite split as to whether it’s the right call or the wrong decision.
Hegazi, whose Albion contract runs until 2022, is expected to join Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad before their transfer deadline in a deal that is expected to see Albion recoup what they spent on the Egyptian defender in December 2017.
The development comes only days after Slaven Bilic outlined his hopes that Hegazi would remain at The Hawthorns.
“I heard that, because I was in Saudi also for a short spell,” Bilic said on Thursday, when asked about the speculation. “There has been an interest from Saudi since I came to the club last season.
“He’s a good player, and he’s from Egypt which makes him a bit more interesting for the clubs from Saudi.
“But like last year, he wants to stay here. He’s a good player, he’s playing and I’m glad he’s staying. I didn’t want him to go last year. This season I like him, he’s a top professional. He’s one of the few lads in our team who has Premier League experience.
“That’s important. He’s very experienced, a very quality player and it’s good to have him in the squad.”
Yet it appears as though Hegazi will indeed be making for Saudi Arabia in the near future, from where he has been offered a tempting financial package to relocate.
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 .
West Brom fans have their say on imminent Hegazi sale
Ali : Whilst it’s strange timing, especially after he played his first game of the season last week, I’ve got no issues with Hegazi going. Don’t understand what so many see in him to be honest.
Dan : Surprised to see Hegazi going, but if he really is on 70k a week and we’re also getting £4m for him. So, I understand why we’re selling him. Just odd when Bilic seemed so confident saying how he was going nowhere the other day.
Martyn Walters: If that’s true about Hegazi leaving I’m not too fussed tbh. We recoup most of the money we paid for him and prior to last Monday he wasn’t starting many games either.
Lee Armstrong : If Hegazi goes.. we’ll have to be bringing in some free agent surely
Luke Mason: Whatever you may think of Hegazi. Do not see the logic in having less options at this stage.
Jon Simonian: Hegazi off to Saudi Arabia it seems... strange one but another off the wage bill if the green light is given for him to go
Sam Wilkinson: Wrong decision personally. One of our better defenders imo.
Ross Nickless: Hegazi imo is the best defender we’ve got at the club and we’re selling him?
Ryan : Say if we played Brighton or a team of that ilk last week who have quick strikers, would we have played Hegazi? I don’t think we would’ve, but given Burnley’s style it made sense to. Shame to see him leave, but Slav clearly don’t fancy him and the money is decent i suppose


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Ahmed Hegazi tipped to complete Albion transfer after deadline

Less than a week after making his first appearance of the season for West Brom , defender Ahmed Hegazi is reportedly on the verge of leaving The Hawthorns - even though the UK transfer window has already shut .
Egyptian centre back Hegazi , who is into his fourth season as an Albion player yet has a little under two years left on his current deal , is set to sign for Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad - Slaven Bilic ’ s former club - ahead of their own transfer deadline .
Hegazi is on big money with the Baggies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players from their wage bill before the summer deadline that took place last week .
The centre half would also be in line to receive a hefty pay rise , claims the Mirror .
Interest from abroad emerged last January , while Hegazi was struggling to break into the Albion starting XI .
He played just 14 times in the promotion winning season , largely because of injuries and surgery recovery .
The news comes just days after Bilic himself reiterated his desire for Hegazi to stay , though the centre half department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ else , there are plenty of options .
One of those is summer signing Branislav Ivanovic , who impressed on debut against Burnley .
Bilic has no reason to believe that he can not be a constant in the side throughout this campaign , despite his age .
“ We go game by game , ” Bilic said of the plan to manage Ivanovic ’ s workload .
“ I don ’ t see why if he stays clear of injury that he can ’ t participate in every game .
Why should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store “ We have good players in that position , he doesn ’ t have to play every game , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not 42 .
He is 36 .
You have a player like Branislav at every club .
“ The way the players take care of themselves , the way they eat , their nutrition and way of life - a player ’ s career has been extended a lot .
He is a top professional , fit , naturally a strong guy .
So I don ’ t see any problems with his fitness , especially when we are playing once a week.
” Kamil Grosicki is another player , meanwhile , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deadline .
The Polish winger is eagerly awaiting to discover the outcome of the talks between the FA and the lawyers of potential new club Nottingham Forest , which will determine whether he has been cleared to join the Championship club having run last week 's transfer deadline close .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Less than a week after making his first appearance of the season for West Brom, defender Ahmed Hegazi is reportedly on the verge of leaving The Hawthorns - even though the UK transfer window has already shut.
Egyptian centre back Hegazi, who is into his fourth season as an Albion player yet has a little under two years left on his current deal, is set to sign for Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad - Slaven Bilic’s former club - ahead of their own transfer deadline.
Hegazi is on big money with the Baggies and they’ve been working to shift players from their wage bill before the summer deadline that took place last week. The centre half would also be in line to receive a hefty pay rise, claims the Mirror.
Interest from abroad emerged last January, while Hegazi was struggling to break into the Albion starting XI. He played just 14 times in the promotion winning season, largely because of injuries and surgery recovery.
The news comes just days after Bilic himself reiterated his desire for Hegazi to stay, though the centre half department remains an area that, if nothing else, there are plenty of options.
One of those is summer signing Branislav Ivanovic, who impressed on debut against Burnley. Bilic has no reason to believe that he cannot be a constant in the side throughout this campaign, despite his age.
“We go game by game,” Bilic said of the plan to manage Ivanovic’s workload. “I don’t see why if he stays clear of injury that he can’t participate in every game.
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 .
“We have good players in that position, he doesn’t have to play every game, but I see no problem there - he is not 42. He is 36. You have a player like Branislav at every club.
“The way the players take care of themselves, the way they eat, their nutrition and way of life - a player’s career has been extended a lot. He is a top professional, fit, naturally a strong guy. So I don’t see any problems with his fitness, especially when we are playing once a week.”
Kamil Grosicki is another player, meanwhile, who could yet move on after the deadline.
The Polish winger is eagerly awaiting to discover the outcome of the talks between the FA and the lawyers of potential new club Nottingham Forest, which will determine whether he has been cleared to join the Championship club having run last week's transfer deadline close.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--'Rattled' - Agbonlahor sends advice to Leeds after Villa result

Gabby Agbonlahor has responded to the ‘ rattled ’ Leeds United fanbase in the wake of his comments regarding the club ’ s manager Marcelo Bielsa .
The ex-Aston Villa striker , still the club ’ s highest goal-scorer of the Premier League era , drew quite a reaction from Leeds supporters prior to the two clubs meeting at Villa Park on Friday night when he labelled Argentine Bielsa ‘ a myth ’ .
Leeds , thanks to a Patrick Bamford hat-trick , put the Lions to the sword at B6 and inflicted their first defeat of the season .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the official Leeds Twitter account collected the tweets of Agbonlahor which had sparked that flurry of replies and used them to aim a cheeky dig at the pundit .
Agbonlahor , though , has explained that the newly promoted outfit , who have hit the ground running back in the top flight , will have to get used to the higher levels of exposure that they ’ re receiving - it goes with the territory of being a Premier League club .
“ How could a club the size of Leeds , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tweet from Gabby Agbonlahor ?
” the former Villan questioned while on punditry duty for talkSPORT .
“ I ’ m getting messages from Leeds fans saying I ’ m a has-been , I ’ m this and that , and I totally agree .
So why are you so rattled by something that I ’ ve tweeted ?
“ I don ’ t see clubs like Manchester City or Manchester United , when they win a game , the talk is about a pundit who says that their manager is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expect that .
You ’ re in a big league now , the Premier League , you ’ re going to get pundits who are going to try and wind up Leeds and put them off their game .
“ It ’ s a part of being in the big league , the big time .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Gabby Agbonlahor has responded to the ‘rattled’ Leeds United fanbase in the wake of his comments regarding the club’s manager Marcelo Bielsa.
The ex-Aston Villa striker, still the club’s highest goal-scorer of the Premier League era, drew quite a reaction from Leeds supporters prior to the two clubs meeting at Villa Park on Friday night when he labelled Argentine Bielsa ‘a myth’.
Leeds, thanks to a Patrick Bamford hat-trick, put the Lions to the sword at B6 and inflicted their first defeat of the season.
In the aftermath of the game, the official Leeds Twitter account collected the tweets of Agbonlahor which had sparked that flurry of replies and used them to aim a cheeky dig at the pundit.
Agbonlahor, though, has explained that the newly promoted outfit, who have hit the ground running back in the top flight, will have to get used to the higher levels of exposure that they’re receiving - it goes with the territory of being a Premier League club.
“How could a club the size of Leeds, this big club, be so affected by a tweet from Gabby Agbonlahor?” the former Villan questioned while on punditry duty for talkSPORT.
“I’m getting messages from Leeds fans saying I’m a has-been, I’m this and that, and I totally agree. So why are you so rattled by something that I’ve tweeted?
“I don’t see clubs like Manchester City or Manchester United, when they win a game, the talk is about a pundit who says that their manager is a myth.
“You’ve got to expect that. You’re in a big league now, the Premier League, you’re going to get pundits who are going to try and wind up Leeds and put them off their game.
“It’s a part of being in the big league, the big time.”


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Everton slip up at St Mary's and Villa fans make the same point

Aston Villa supporters were keeping more than one eye on the match between Southampton and Everton this afternoon .
The Saints ran out 2-0 winners against the Toffees , who like Villa have begun the season in excellent fashion .
James Ward-Prowse and Che Adams scored the goals for Ralph Hasenhuttl ’ s men , before Everton left-back Lucas Digne was shown a red card .
It ’ s the first defeat that ’ s been inflicted on Carlo Ancelotti ’ s Blues this season , and it means that Villa could mathematically go top if they were to win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heavy defeat at home to Leeds on Friday .
Interestingly , it ’ s Southampton themselves who are up next for Dean Smith ’ s Lions .
They visit Villa Park next weekend in what is looking like an intriguing match-up , especially when you consider Villa need a response .
The result today has given the claret and blue fanbase heart - but they ’ re also wary of the threat their coming opponents pose .
GLJ : Game in hand ... .
Could go top .
What a time to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Very impressed with Southampton again today .
Everton never got going , but Saints ball retention & energy levels excellent .
Another tough game for Villa next week James Tyler : So ... when do we use this game in hand to steal top spot ?
This season is wild so far GTHEB : Not a bad weekend after all Stephen James Arnold : Simple ... .win our game in hand and be out in front on top two points clear all on our own with the best goal difference in the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa this weekend , but we ’ ve still had an excellent start to the season .
It ’ s a marathon , not a sprint .
Enjoy the ride !
Cormac Joyce : Southampton doing villa a massive favour in this title race Scott Robbins : So we are going top of the league next week then .
Shaughn : Us and Everton have been given a wake up call this weekend John McGod : Southampton at home next week is gon na be so tough .
Hitting from at the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year at Villa Park with that front 2 .
Big big test for us that 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Charlie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoying Everton ’ s start to the season .
Seeing them losing against saints has made me feel better about Friday ’ s result James : Everton & Villa .
Making Leeds and Southampton look like Real Madrid WestMidlandsVillage : Nice to see one of our title challengers in Everton potentially dropping points Gary Smith Jnr : It ’ s looking like if we win our game in hand we go top .
Big Nik : Next weekend sees the biggest test of the season do far .
How we respond to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side who turned us over both times last season .
Should be a very interesting game

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa supporters were keeping more than one eye on the match between Southampton and Everton this afternoon.
The Saints ran out 2-0 winners against the Toffees, who like Villa have begun the season in excellent fashion. James Ward-Prowse and Che Adams scored the goals for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men, before Everton left-back Lucas Digne was shown a red card.
It’s the first defeat that’s been inflicted on Carlo Ancelotti’s Blues this season, and it means that Villa could mathematically go top if they were to win their game in hand - despite their heavy defeat at home to Leeds on Friday.
Interestingly, it’s Southampton themselves who are up next for Dean Smith’s Lions. They visit Villa Park next weekend in what is looking like an intriguing match-up, especially when you consider Villa need a response.
The result today has given the claret and blue fanbase heart - but they’re also wary of the threat their coming opponents pose.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Aston Villa fans on Southampton toppling Everton
GLJ : Game in hand.... Could go top. What a time to be a #avfc fan
Rob Aston: Very impressed with Southampton again today. Everton never got going, but Saints ball retention & energy levels excellent. Another tough game for Villa next week
James Tyler : So... when do we use this game in hand to steal top spot? This season is wild so far
GTHEB : Not a bad weekend after all
Stephen James Arnold: Simple....win our game in hand and be out in front on top two points clear all on our own with the best goal difference in the league
7500 to Holte: Poor result for Villa this weekend, but we’ve still had an excellent start to the season. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the ride!
Cormac Joyce: Southampton doing villa a massive favour in this title race
Scott Robbins: So we are going top of the league next week then.
Shaughn : Us and Everton have been given a wake up call this weekend
John McGod: Southampton at home next week is gonna be so tough. Hitting from at the right time and they ripped us apart last year at Villa Park with that front 2. Big big test for us that
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
Charlie : As much as I’m enjoying Everton’s start to the season. Seeing them losing against saints has made me feel better about Friday’s result
James: Everton & Villa. Making Leeds and Southampton look like Real Madrid
WestMidlandsVillage : Nice to see one of our title challengers in Everton potentially dropping points
Gary Smith Jnr: It’s looking like if we win our game in hand we go top.
Big Nik: Next weekend sees the biggest test of the season do far. How we respond to the Leeds defeat against a very good Southampton side who turned us over both times last season. Should be a very interesting game


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Car key burglary gang netted £100,000 of Audis and Mercedes

Ruthless car key burglars netted more than £100,000 worth of Audis and Mercedes during raids across Birmingham and Solihull .
But gang member Carl Whitfield , 39 , was caught following a high-speed chase during which rocks were hurled at a police car .
Birmingham Crown Court heard the career criminal had an astonishing 75 previous convictions for 135 offences .
Whitfield , of Alcester Road South , Maypole , has now been jailed for three years and four months after admitting conspiracy to burgle and conspiracy to steal cars .
The raids were carried out at two addresses in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 13 and January 4 .
On each occasion locks were broken and householders woke to discover their vehicles had been taken .
A Mercedes worth £28,000 , an Audi worth £38,000 and another Mercedes with a value of around £40,000 were taken from the drives , as well as an Astra .
Two days after the final raid on January 6 a police officer saw the Astra in Robin Hood Lane , Yardley Wood , containing four people .
A police pursuit began and the stolen car accelerated away , reaching 88mph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a dual carriageway .
At one point those inside threw bricks and paving slabs at the pursuing police car .
The Astra accelerated to 100mph , flying over speed bumps towards Druids Heath , but eventually clipped a kerb before coming to a halt .
The four men inside ran off but Whitfield was detained in an alleyway `` out of breath , sweating and wearing dark clothing , '' said Timothy Harrington , prosecuting .
His phone was seized with incriminating messages found , including one stating : `` How much are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In passing sentence Judge Avik Mukherjee said Whitfield had 75 convictions for 135 offences .
He added : `` The three burglaries were all planned .
The cars , I am satisfied , were stolen to order with a view to selling them on in the very near futire .
`` You have involved yourself in an organised criminal group and put yourself in a position where others would know that they could involve you .
`` They were all overnight and professionally planned . ''
Jonathan Veasey-Pugh , defending , said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owed a debt and had been subject to threats and also assaults .
He said the vehicles were sold on for considerably less than what they were worth .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Ruthless car key burglars netted more than £100,000 worth of Audis and Mercedes during raids across Birmingham and Solihull.
But gang member Carl Whitfield, 39, was caught following a high-speed chase during which rocks were hurled at a police car.
Birmingham Crown Court heard the career criminal had an astonishing 75 previous convictions for 135 offences.
Whitfield, of Alcester Road South, Maypole, has now been jailed for three years and four months after admitting conspiracy to burgle and conspiracy to steal cars.
The raids were carried out at two addresses in Kings Heath and one in Solihull between December 13 and January 4.
On each occasion locks were broken and householders woke to discover their vehicles had been taken.
A Mercedes worth £28,000, an Audi worth £38,000 and another Mercedes with a value of around £40,000 were taken from the drives, as well as an Astra.
Two days after the final raid on January 6 a police officer saw the Astra in Robin Hood Lane, Yardley Wood, containing four people.
A police pursuit began and the stolen car accelerated away, reaching 88mph and driving on the wrong side of a dual carriageway.
At one point those inside threw bricks and paving slabs at the pursuing police car.
The Astra accelerated to 100mph, flying over speed bumps towards Druids Heath, but eventually clipped a kerb before coming to a halt.
The four men inside ran off but Whitfield was detained in an alleyway "out of breath, sweating and wearing dark clothing," said Timothy Harrington, prosecuting.
His phone was seized with incriminating messages found, including one stating: "How much are you selling the Mercedes for?"
In passing sentence Judge Avik Mukherjee said Whitfield had 75 convictions for 135 offences.
He added: "The three burglaries were all planned. The cars, I am satisfied, were stolen to order with a view to selling them on in the very near futire.
"You have involved yourself in an organised criminal group and put yourself in a position where others would know that they could involve you.
"They were all overnight and professionally planned."
Jonathan Veasey-Pugh, defending, said the reason for the offending was that Whitfield owed a debt and had been subject to threats and also assaults.
He said the vehicles were sold on for considerably less than what they were worth.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Bilic addresses the roles of Austin and Gibbs in his Albion squad

Slaven Bilic has reasoned that striker Charlie Austin can still have a part to play in his West Brom plans for the season .
Austin , 31 , was a wanted man in the summer transfer window but he opted to stay put in order to convince Bilic that he deserves another crack at Premier League football having finished last season as the Baggies ’ top goalscorer .
He was an unused substitute in the opening day defeat to Leicester City , and he hasn ’ t been seen since in the top flight .
Austin was handed a start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and made a cameo appearance in the following round against Brentford - he scored in the penalty shoot-out which Albion eventually lost .
Yet with Hal Robson-Kanu injured for the foreseeable future , and Kenneth Zohore out the door on loan , Bilic hasn ’ t totally closed the door on Austin participating in the coming weeks .
“ Charlie is with us , ” Bilic said .
“ We are not overloaded in that area .
At the moment with Hal Robson-Kanu injured , we have three strikers with Charlie .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is working really hard , he is a good professional .
He is working very hard in training so we will see.
” Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '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 do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Play Store and App Store Kieran Gibbs , too , is a player who Albion fans haven ’ t seen at all since he picked up a red card for retaliating when provoked by James Rodriguez in the 5-2 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park last month .
Though he ’ s served his three-match suspension , the left-back was left out of the squad for the goalless draw with Burnley last Monday .
Bilic waved away the idea that he is still being punished for his reactions on Merseyside , and added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason to alter things in that area .
“ People are trying to make something out of nothing , ” Bilic insisted .
“ It is not punishment for his red card at Everton - no , no .
“ That was horrible and I ’ ve told him that , but I would punish myself and punish the team if , because of that , I was going to say you have to wait to play .
“ Training ground or the minutes you get in games - that ’ s it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Conor got a chance and he is doing well .
“ Do I like Gibbo ?
Of course I like him , but he has to show me that on the pitch , every day .
Is it him , is it [ Kyle ] Bartley , is it Charlie , is it the kids like Sam Field .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Slaven Bilic has reasoned that striker Charlie Austin can still have a part to play in his West Brom plans for the season.
Austin, 31, was a wanted man in the summer transfer window but he opted to stay put in order to convince Bilic that he deserves another crack at Premier League football having finished last season as the Baggies’ top goalscorer.
He was an unused substitute in the opening day defeat to Leicester City, and he hasn’t been seen since in the top flight. Austin was handed a start against Harrogate Town in the EFL Cup and made a cameo appearance in the following round against Brentford - he scored in the penalty shoot-out which Albion eventually lost.
Yet with Hal Robson-Kanu injured for the foreseeable future, and Kenneth Zohore out the door on loan, Bilic hasn’t totally closed the door on Austin participating in the coming weeks.
“Charlie is with us,” Bilic said. “We are not overloaded in that area. At the moment with Hal Robson-Kanu injured, we have three strikers with Charlie.
“He can get his chance. He is working really hard, he is a good professional. He is working very hard in training so we will see.”
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 .
Kieran Gibbs, too, is a player who Albion fans haven’t seen at all since he picked up a red card for retaliating when provoked by James Rodriguez in the 5-2 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park last month.
Though he’s served his three-match suspension, the left-back was left out of the squad for the goalless draw with Burnley last Monday.
Bilic waved away the idea that he is still being punished for his reactions on Merseyside, and added that Conor Townsend has given him no reason to alter things in that area.
“People are trying to make something out of nothing,” Bilic insisted. “It is not punishment for his red card at Everton - no, no.
(Image: Getty Images)
“That was horrible and I’ve told him that, but I would punish myself and punish the team if, because of that, I was going to say you have to wait to play.
“Training ground or the minutes you get in games - that’s it. It’s the same now, Conor got a chance and he is doing well.
“Do I like Gibbo? Of course I like him, but he has to show me that on the pitch, every day. Is it him, is it [Kyle] Bartley, is it Charlie, is it the kids like Sam Field.”


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Oil tanker 'hijack attempt' off Isle of Wight

A number of stowaways are reported to have attempted to hijack an oil tanker just off the Isle of Wight .
Police have confirmed an incident on board a vessel and en exclusion zone has been established around the giant ship .
The incident is reported to have taken place aboard the Liberian-registered Nave Andromeda crude oil tanker south of Sandown , according to Isle of Wight Radio .
It is reported from maritime data that the vessel had set sail from Lagos , Nigeria .
However , it is not clear how many people are involved in the incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We are aware and dealing with an ongoing incident on board a vessel which is situated south of the Isle of Wight .
“ We will provide you with further updates when we are in a position to do so.
” A spokeswoman for Associated British Ports , which runs Southampton port , said they had not had any contact with the vessel and they had no further comment .
It is understood that the 228-metre tanker had been expected to dock in Southampton at 10.30am on Sunday .
The coastguard said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ search and rescue helicopters from Lee on Solent and Lydd are also in attendance .
The five-mile exclusion zone was set up in the area south of Sandown .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A number of stowaways are reported to have attempted to hijack an oil tanker just off the Isle of Wight.
Police have confirmed an incident on board a vessel and en exclusion zone has been established around the giant ship.
The incident is reported to have taken place aboard the Liberian-registered Nave Andromeda crude oil tanker south of Sandown, according to Isle of Wight Radio.
It is reported from maritime data that the vessel had set sail from Lagos, Nigeria. However, it is not clear how many people are involved in the incident.
A Hampshire police spokesman said: “We are aware and dealing with an ongoing incident on board a vessel which is situated south of the Isle of Wight.
“We will provide you with further updates when we are in a position to do so.”
A spokeswoman for Associated British Ports, which runs Southampton port, said they had not had any contact with the vessel and they had no further comment.
It is understood that the 228-metre tanker had been expected to dock in Southampton at 10.30am on Sunday.
The coastguard said it was assisting police and that local search and rescue helicopters from Lee on Solent and Lydd are also in attendance.
The five-mile exclusion zone was set up in the area south of Sandown.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Nurse wakes from Covid coma to find husband died of the virus

A nurse who contracted coronavirus has told how he work up from a coma to be told his husband had died of the same virus .
David Courtney-Williams , 49 , was put into an induced coma for a fortnight after falling ill in March .
But when he woke he was informed that Steven , his partner of 28 years and husband for 14 , had died from Covid-19 , aged 56 .
David was one of the first patients to be put on a ventilator at Morriston Hospital , Swansea , as the pandemic spread globally in March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Online that he “ just crumbled ” when he heard the devastating news .
He said : “ I couldn ’ t even hold the phone myself .
I was so weak .
I just remember thinking ‘ what do you mean Steven ’ s gone ?
’ “ When I was taken in , Steven had no symptoms .
He had his illnesses but to be told two weeks later when I woke up that he was gone , that was devastating.
” “ It ’ s been difficult for the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steve passing away and I was touch and go at one point too .
I think they were preparing for a double .
“ And then they had the stress of telling me Steve had gone too.
” While dealing with the mental trauma of the news , David was also physically struggling with the side-effects of contracting the virus himself .
He said that the physical trauma of being intubated and placed into an induced coma means he found it difficult to process what had happened .
“ It ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not just one thing but it ’ s another as well .
It ’ s the physical side of recovery but then the mental battle , ” he said .
“ It ’ s been a nightmare to be honest .
“ At first I couldn ’ t grieve properly because I had to get well myself .
I had to put it to the back of my mind and concentrate on getting through this thing .
“ I just couldn ’ t process it at that time .
“ It was physically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damaged when I came round .
The funeral director on the phone couldn ’ t understand me .
“ I had to learn to walk again , I still have numbness in my leg six months after physio .
“ I was so weak at one point we were not sure if I was going to make it to the funeral but I was determined.
” And while the mental trauma has been difficult for him , David admitted he is still suffering the effects of the virus several months later .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at the end of the day they saved my life , ” he said .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A nurse who contracted coronavirus has told how he work up from a coma to be told his husband had died of the same virus.
David Courtney-Williams, 49, was put into an induced coma for a fortnight after falling ill in March.
But when he woke he was informed that Steven, his partner of 28 years and husband for 14, had died from Covid-19, aged 56.
David was one of the first patients to be put on a ventilator at Morriston Hospital, Swansea, as the pandemic spread globally in March.
(Image: (Image: David Courtney-Williams))
The Singleton Hospital nurse told Wales Online that he “just crumbled” when he heard the devastating news.
He said: “I couldn’t even hold the phone myself. I was so weak. I just remember thinking ‘what do you mean Steven’s gone ?’
“When I was taken in, Steven had no symptoms. He had his illnesses but to be told two weeks later when I woke up that he was gone, that was devastating.”
“It’s been difficult for the family too.
(Image: (Image: David Courtney-Williams))
“They were devastated with Steve passing away and I was touch and go at one point too. I think they were preparing for a double.
“And then they had the stress of telling me Steve had gone too.”
While dealing with the mental trauma of the news, David was also physically struggling with the side-effects of contracting the virus himself.
He said that the physical trauma of being intubated and placed into an induced coma means he found it difficult to process what had happened.
“It’s been a mental struggle. It’s not just one thing but it’s another as well. It’s the physical side of recovery but then the mental battle,” he said.
“It’s been a nightmare to be honest.
“At first I couldn’t grieve properly because I had to get well myself. I had to put it to the back of my mind and concentrate on getting through this thing.
“I just couldn’t process it at that time.
“It was physically awful too, my vocal cords were damaged when I came round. The funeral director on the phone couldn’t understand me.
“I had to learn to walk again, I still have numbness in my leg six months after physio.
“I was so weak at one point we were not sure if I was going to make it to the funeral but I was determined.”
And while the mental trauma has been difficult for him, David admitted he is still suffering the effects of the virus several months later.
“The staff in Morriston Hospital are incredible, at the end of the day they saved my life,” he said.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Nuno recalls Neves to starting XI for Newcastle United test

Nuno Espirito Santo has made one change to the Wolverhampton Wanderers team which defeated Leeds United on Monday .
The @ @ @ @ @ named an unchanged starting XI this season and has once again shuffled his pack with @ @ @ @ @ team for today ’ s match with Newcastle United .
His compatriot Joao Moutinho drops @ @ @ @ @ Rayan Ait-Nouri for the first time .
The Magpies have proved a tough nut to @ @ @ @ @ seasons with the last three games between the two clubs ending 1-1 , including the @ @ @ @ @ .
Nuno will be hoping his tactical tweak helps Wolves extend their winning streak to @ @ @ @ @ Steve Bruce revealed a potential goalkeeping crisis on Friday morning with Karl Darlow struggling in @ @ @ @ @ .
However , the former Walsall loanee has been passed fit and starts for the @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Nuno Espirito Santo has made one change to the Wolverhampton Wanderers team which defeated Leeds United on Monday.
The head coach hasn’t named an unchanged starting XI this season and has once again shuffled his pack with Ruben Neves coming into the team for today’s match with Newcastle United. His compatriot Joao Moutinho drops to a bench which includes Rayan Ait-Nouri for the first time.
The Magpies have proved a tough nut to crack for Wolves in recent seasons with the last three games between the two clubs ending 1-1, including the one at Molineux in January.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Nuno will be hoping his tactical tweak helps Wolves extend their winning streak to three matches.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce revealed a potential goalkeeping crisis on Friday morning with Karl Darlow struggling in the build-up to the game. However, the former Walsall loanee has been passed fit and starts for the visitors.
Wolves (3-4-3): Patricio; Boly, Coady, Kilman; Semedo, Dendoncker, Neves , Saiss; Neto, Jimenez, Podence
Subs: Ruddy, Hoever, Ait-Nouri, Marcal, Moutinho, Silva, Traore


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Spain imposes radical Covid restrictions as state of emergency declared

Spanish has declared a second nationwide state of emergency after a surge in coronavirus infections - just days after travel restrictions were eased for UK holidaymakers heading to the Canary Islands .
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the government will impose an 11pm to 6am nationwide curfew .
However , the Canary Islands , including Tenerife , Lanzarote , Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura will escape the curbs .
The prime minister said Spain ’ s 19 regional leaders will have authority to set different hours for the curfew , as long as they are stricter ; close regional borders to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who do not live together .
“ The reality is that Europe and Spain are immersed in a second wave of the pandemic , ” Mr Sanchez said after meeting his Cabinet .
The leader added he will seek the endorsement of the Parliament to extend the state of alarm for six months until May .
A state of emergency gives the national government extraordinary powers , including the ability to temporarily restrict basic freedoms guaranteed in Spain ’ s constitution , such as the right to free movement .
Spain ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of emergency during the pandemic .
The first was declared in March to apply a strict home confinement across the nation , close stores and recruit private industry for the national public health fight .
It was lifted in June after reining in the contagion rate and saving hospitals from collapse .
The second went into effect for two weeks in Madrid to force the capital ’ s reluctant regional leaders to impose travel limits on residents to slow down an outbreak in which new infections grew exponentially .
It lasted until Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reluctant to impose another complete home lockdown and industry shutdown , given the weakened state of Spain ’ s economy , which has plunged into a recession and seen its unemployment rolls skyrocket in recent months .
Spain this week became the first European country to pass one million officially recorded Covid-19 cases .
But Mr Sanchez admitted on Friday in a nationally televised address that the true figure could be more than three million due to gaps in testing and other factors .
Spain reported almost 20,000 new daily cases and 231 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country ’ s death toll in the pandemic to 34,752 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Spanish has declared a second nationwide state of emergency after a surge in coronavirus infections - just days after travel restrictions were eased for UK holidaymakers heading to the Canary Islands.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the government will impose an 11pm to 6am nationwide curfew.
However, the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura will escape the curbs.
The prime minister said Spain’s 19 regional leaders will have authority to set different hours for the curfew, as long as they are stricter; close regional borders to travel, and limit gatherings to six people who do not live together.
“The reality is that Europe and Spain are immersed in a second wave of the pandemic,” Mr Sanchez said after meeting his Cabinet.
The leader added he will seek the endorsement of the Parliament to extend the state of alarm for six months until May.
A state of emergency gives the national government extraordinary powers, including the ability to temporarily restrict basic freedoms guaranteed in Spain’s constitution, such as the right to free movement.
Spain’s government has already declared two states of emergency during the pandemic.
The first was declared in March to apply a strict home confinement across the nation, close stores and recruit private industry for the national public health fight. It was lifted in June after reining in the contagion rate and saving hospitals from collapse.
The second went into effect for two weeks in Madrid to force the capital’s reluctant regional leaders to impose travel limits on residents to slow down an outbreak in which new infections grew exponentially. It lasted until Saturday.
Government officials on all levels were reluctant to impose another complete home lockdown and industry shutdown, given the weakened state of Spain’s economy, which has plunged into a recession and seen its unemployment rolls skyrocket in recent months.
Spain this week became the first European country to pass one million officially recorded Covid-19 cases.
But Mr Sanchez admitted on Friday in a nationally televised address that the true figure could be more than three million due to gaps in testing and other factors.
Spain reported almost 20,000 new daily cases and 231 more fatalities on Friday, taking the country’s death toll in the pandemic to 34,752.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Another 26 Covid-linked deaths reported in Midland hospitals

A further 26 deaths linked to a positive coronavirus test have been reported in Midland hospitals within the past 24 @ @ @ @ @ included five deaths in Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and two in Wolverhampton .
@ @ @ @ @ were recorded in hospitals in England .
Another five deaths were recorded in hospitals in @ @ @ @ @ recorded in Scotland along with 1,303 new cases and 86 patients currently in intensive care @ @ @ @ @ latest figure brings the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to @ @ @ @ @ between 43 and 100 years old .
All except three had known underlying health conditions @ @ @ @ @ from 28 August to 24 October 2020 , with the majority being on or after @ @ @ @ @ have been informed .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A further 26 deaths linked to a positive coronavirus test have been reported in Midland hospitals within the past 24 hours.
The grim statistics included five deaths in Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and two in Wolverhampton.
In total, 76 fatalities were recorded in hospitals in England. Another five deaths were recorded in hospitals in Wales.
One death was recorded in Scotland along with 1,303 new cases and 86 patients currently in intensive care battling the virus.
The daily UK hospital total was 82.
The latest figure brings the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 31,819.
Patients were aged between 43 and 100 years old. All except three had known underlying health conditions.
Date of death ranges from 28 August to 24 October 2020, with the majority being on or after 21 October.
Their families have been informed.


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Boots staff recover £1k of stolen goods from shoplifting gang

Staff at a Boots store at Bentley Bridge shopping park swiped back £1,000 worth of goods after thieves raided the @ @ @ @ @ to the store at the Wednesfield based retail park on Saturday , October , 24 @ @ @ @ @ back the items as the thieves tried to leave the store .
Sadly the raiders @ @ @ @ @ sparking cops to launch an investigation .
Pictures from the scene show a blue bag @ @ @ @ @ recovered .
In a post on social media , the force said : `` Earlier @ @ @ @ @ , staff at Boots managed to retrieve approximately £1,000 worth of their goods , that @ @ @ @ @ `` One quick acting member of staff managed to grab back the items , as @ @ @ @ @ .
They escaped on foot , but an investigation is underway . ''

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Staff at a Boots store at Bentley Bridge shopping park swiped back £1,000 worth of goods after thieves raided the shop.
Police were called to the store at the Wednesfield based retail park on Saturday, October, 24.
Workers managed to grab back the items as the thieves tried to leave the store.
Sadly the raiders managed to flee on foot sparking cops to launch an investigation.
Pictures from the scene show a blue bag packed with items which were recovered.
In a post on social media, the force said: "Earlier today (October 24), staff at Boots managed to retrieve approximately £1,000 worth of their goods, that had just been stolen.
"One quick acting member of staff managed to grab back the items, as the shoplifters exited the store. They escaped on foot, but an investigation is underway."


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Royal Mail recruiting 33,000 workers for Christmas deliveries

Around 33,000 temporary jobs will be available with the Royal Mail during the festive period – over 10,000 more than its usual seasonal average .
The postal service typically employs between 15,000 and 23,000 extra staff between October and January to help sort the additional Christmas volumes of parcels , cards and letters .
But the extra workers are needed this year because of an expected avalanche of parcels from an increase in online shopping caused by the coronavirus crisis .
Over 13,000 mail centre sorting posts are available in England , around 1,400 posts in Scotland , 700 posts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland .
The seasonal workers will support over 115,000 permanent postmen and women who sort and deliver the mail all year round .
Additional workers will also be required for Royal Mail ’ s new Covid-19 testing kit collection team .
Royal Mail has been recruiting festive temporary workers since the Second World War .
Royal Mail chief HR officer Sally Ashford said : “ During these unprecedented times we believe it is critical that Royal Mail continues to deliver .
“ We want to do our best to deliver Christmas for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
“ This helps the whole country to celebrate and stay safe during these difficult times .
”

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
Around 33,000 temporary jobs will be available with the Royal Mail during the festive period – over 10,000 more than its usual seasonal average.
The postal service typically employs between 15,000 and 23,000 extra staff between October and January to help sort the additional Christmas volumes of parcels, cards and letters.
But the extra workers are needed this year because of an expected avalanche of parcels from an increase in online shopping caused by the coronavirus crisis.
Over 13,000 mail centre sorting posts are available in England, around 1,400 posts in Scotland, 700 posts in Wales and 500 posts in Northern Ireland.
The seasonal workers will support over 115,000 permanent postmen and women who sort and deliver the mail all year round.
Additional workers will also be required for Royal Mail’s new Covid-19 testing kit collection team.
Royal Mail has been recruiting festive temporary workers since the Second World War.
Royal Mail chief HR officer Sally Ashford said: “During these unprecedented times we believe it is critical that Royal Mail continues to deliver.
“We want to do our best to deliver Christmas for our customers and support the effort on the pandemic.
“This helps the whole country to celebrate and stay safe during these difficult times.”


birminghammail--2020-10-25--Teen arrested after boy threatened with machete in park

A 16-year-old has been arrested over allegations he threatened another boy with a machete in a Walsall park .
The @ @ @ @ @ Memorial Park at around 6.20pm last night , Saturday , October 24 , when he @ @ @ @ @ .
One thug allegedly brandished a large machete and threatened to stab him unless he @ @ @ @ @ .
The bike was snatched but fortunately no-one was hurt .
Enquiries led cops to @ @ @ @ @ a teenager was arrested on suspicion of robbery and he remains in police custody .
@ @ @ @ @ Police website states a robbery is the illegal taking of property from someone against his @ @ @ @ @ violence or intimidation .
A theft is the illegal taking and carrying away of the @ @ @ @ @ someone without threats or violence .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A 16-year-old has been arrested over allegations he threatened another boy with a machete in a Walsall park.
The victim was cycling through Willenhall Memorial Park at around 6.20pm last night, Saturday, October 24, when he was approached by a gang.
One thug allegedly brandished a large machete and threatened to stab him unless he handed over the mountain bike.
The bike was snatched but fortunately no-one was hurt.
Enquiries led cops to an address in Walsall where a teenager was arrested on suspicion of robbery and he remains in police custody.
Robbery and theft
Advice on the West Midlands Police website states a robbery is the illegal taking of property from someone against his or her will, by violence or intimidation.
A theft is the illegal taking and carrying away of the personal goods or property of someone without threats or violence.