birminghammail--2020-05-01--A quick Premier League Pub Picture Quiz to test you

Right then , the weekend is here - and it 's fast approaching pub quiz time .
We know that 's not possible at the moment so instead of venturing down your local boozer , grab a can , some snacks and a comfy chair and we 'll take on the role of quizmaster .
It 's only a quick one so do n't worry about nipping off to the loo , you 'll be done soon !
In fact it 's only the picture round so it will be over before you know it .
Just to make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we 've set this one in the 1990s .
Young , under age whippersnappers , will have no chance of remembering any of this lot .
We 've gone back three decades to delve through our photo archives for players who were playing in the Premier League back then .
There 's 15 questions for you to have a bash at and do n't forget to share your score on social media .
Without further ado , crack on with the Premier Pub Picture Quiz at the top of this piece .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , let me know on Twitter @ matkendrick or email me mat.kendrick @ reachplc.com and I 'll put together a bigger , better bumper quiz to test your knowledge next Friday night .
If you enjoyed that quick wander down memory lane , have a read of this piece : 12 things Aston Villa fans remember from 1990s football .

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Right then, the weekend is here - and it's fast approaching pub quiz time.
We know that's not possible at the moment so instead of venturing down your local boozer, grab a can, some snacks and a comfy chair and we'll take on the role of quizmaster.
It's only a quick one so don't worry about nipping off to the loo, you'll be done soon!
In fact it's only the picture round so it will be over before you know it.
Just to make sure you're old enough for pub quizzes, we've set this one in the 1990s. Young, under age whippersnappers, will have no chance of remembering any of this lot.
We've gone back three decades to delve through our photo archives for players who were playing in the Premier League back then.
There's 15 questions for you to have a bash at and don't forget to share your score on social media.
Without further ado, crack on with the Premier Pub Picture Quiz at the top of this piece.
Oh, and if you enjoyed it, let me know on Twitter @matkendrick or email me mat.kendrick@reachplc.com and I'll put together a bigger, better bumper quiz to test your knowledge next Friday night.
If you enjoyed that quick wander down memory lane, have a read of this piece: 12 things Aston Villa fans remember from 1990s football.


birminghammail--2020-05-01--More than 120,000 coronavirus tests are now taking place every day

The Government says it has met its target of carrying out 100,000 tests a day by a wide margin , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has revealed .
Figures published by the government showed there were 122,347 tests in the 24 hours up to 9am on May 1 .
And speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` At the beginning of last month at this podium I set a goal that anyone who needs a test ashould get a test and that as a nation we should achieve 100,000 tests a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Hancock said : `` I can announce that we have met our goal .
The number of tests yesterday , on the last day of April was 122,347 . ''
However , there was a row over the figures after the Department for Health confirmed that 27,497 tests taken at home had been counted at the point where they are delivered by courier - not when they are returned for analysis .
The Lib Dems accused the Government of having decided to “ massage the metrics ” over the testing target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and loose with the truth ” .
Acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey said : “ The Health Secretary ’ s arbitrary target of 100,000 tests by the end of April was always a hostage to fortune , and the truth is , he missed it .
It ’ s extremely disappointing the Government have decided to massage the metrics rather than admit they fell short , as this will only undermine public confidence .
Ministers wil be hoping that the success in ramping up the number of daily tests will help to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fight covid-19 coronavirus .
Critics have accused it of failing to provide enought tests , and also of failing to provide enough protective equipment .
There was an increase in the number of reported tests carried out each day as the deadline approached .
On Monday just 43,453 tests had been conducted , but this jumped to 52,429 on Tuesday and to 81,611 on Wednesday .
There was some controversy over the figures after the Health Service Journal reported the number includes tests that have apparently been carried out at home but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the result to be determined .
Mr Hancock also said that the Government was re-opening some health services that had not been operating during the coronavirus crisis , including fertility services .
He said : `` Together we 've protected the NHS and we 're now restoring the NHS and restoring the chance for so many couples to start a family . ''
Nationwide , 27,510 people have now died of coronavirus .
This includes deaths in hospitals , care homes and elsewhere .
The coronavirus peak in care homes could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would represent a failure from health agencies to support social care , the head of Care England said .
Chief executive Professor Martin Green said there is still “ no parity whatsoever ” between the NHS and social care , with discrepancies evident on every level .
While access to testing and personal protective equipment ( PPE ) is improving , money given to local authorities is not getting through to the front line despite providers ’ hugely increased costs , he warned .
Another problem has been the lack of real-time data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government only starting to publish daily updates in the sixth week of lockdown .
Prof Green , who leads the largest representative body for independent providers of adult social care , warned that the country could face a second wave if authorities do not support the sector properly .
Asked how far behind the peak in hospital deaths the care sector is , he said : “ We are a long way behind , because despite what the Health Secretary says about us being always regarded as a priority , well clearly we @ @ @ @ @

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The Government says it has met its target of carrying out 100,000 tests a day by a wide margin, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has revealed.
Figures published by the government showed there were 122,347 tests in the 24 hours up to 9am on May 1.
And speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "At the beginning of last month at this podium I set a goal that anyone who needs a test ashould get a test and that as a nation we should achieve 100,000 tests a day by the end of the month."
Mr Hancock said: "I can announce that we have met our goal. The number of tests yesterday, on the last day of April was 122,347."
However, there was a row over the figures after the Department for Health confirmed that 27,497 tests taken at home had been counted at the point where they are delivered by courier - not when they are returned for analysis.
The Lib Dems accused the Government of having decided to “massage the metrics” over the testing target, accusing ministers of playing “fast and loose with the truth”.
Acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey said: “The Health Secretary’s arbitrary target of 100,000 tests by the end of April was always a hostage to fortune, and the truth is, he missed it. It’s extremely disappointing the Government have decided to massage the metrics rather than admit they fell short, as this will only undermine public confidence.
Ministers wil be hoping that the success in ramping up the number of daily tests will help to see off criticism of the Government's efforts to fight covid-19 coronavirus. Critics have accused it of failing to provide enought tests, and also of failing to provide enough protective equipment.
There was an increase in the number of reported tests carried out each day as the deadline approached.
On Monday just 43,453 tests had been conducted, but this jumped to 52,429 on Tuesday and to 81,611 on Wednesday.
There was some controversy over the figures after the Health Service Journal reported the number includes tests that have apparently been carried out at home but have not yet been mailed to labs for the result to be determined.
Mr Hancock also said that the Government was re-opening some health services that had not been operating during the coronavirus crisis, including fertility services.
He said: "Together we've protected the NHS and we're now restoring the NHS and restoring the chance for so many couples to start a family."
Nationwide, 27,510 people have now died of coronavirus. This includes deaths in hospitals, care homes and elsewhere.
The coronavirus peak in care homes could be months away and any potential second wave would represent a failure from health agencies to support social care, the head of Care England said.
Chief executive Professor Martin Green said there is still “no parity whatsoever” between the NHS and social care, with discrepancies evident on every level.
While access to testing and personal protective equipment (PPE) is improving, money given to local authorities is not getting through to the front line despite providers’ hugely increased costs, he warned.
Another problem has been the lack of real-time data on care home deaths, with the Government only starting to publish daily updates in the sixth week of lockdown.
Prof Green, who leads the largest representative body for independent providers of adult social care, warned that the country could face a second wave if authorities do not support the sector properly.
Asked how far behind the peak in hospital deaths the care sector is, he said: “We are a long way behind, because despite what the Health Secretary says about us being always regarded as a priority, well clearly we weren’t."


birminghammail--2020-05-01--EFL letter to West Brom and Leeds about title race resumption

Chairman Rick Parry has insisted that the EFL remain determined to finish the season in an open letter to all 71 clubs .
All professional matches in England have been suspended since mid-March and talks continue over when or whether the season will resume .
Both France and the Netherlands have cancelled the remaining matches in their top-flight but Parry insists the EFL will not follow suit and remain in constant dialogue with the government .
An open letter read : “ Whilst there is still no further clarity on a return of EFL matches , the objective remains to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign at the current 71 EFL grounds .
`` It is important that any clubs notify the EFL of any issues that may prevent this as soon as possible .
`` Some progress has been made in respect of planning how matches may take place , with draft operational plans put before the board at this week ’ s meeting and incorporating many areas such as : stadium preparation , medical provisions , staffing , media access and , of course , measures needed to ensure the safety of all participants including first-team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and everyone else associated with the matchday environment.
” The Premier League remain in talks over ‘ Project Restart ’ with a date of June 8 targeted for a potential return to action .
West Brom are currently second in the table , six points clear in the automatic promotion places with only nine games remaining .
They are bidding for a return to the top flight at the second time of asking .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Elliott Jackson, Brian Dick)

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Chairman Rick Parry has insisted that the EFL remain determined to finish the season in an open letter to all 71 clubs.
All professional matches in England have been suspended since mid-March and talks continue over when or whether the season will resume.
Both France and the Netherlands have cancelled the remaining matches in their top-flight but Parry insists the EFL will not follow suit and remain in constant dialogue with the government.
An open letter read: “Whilst there is still no further clarity on a return of EFL matches, the objective remains to play the remaining fixtures for the 2019-20 campaign at the current 71 EFL grounds.
"It is important that any clubs notify the EFL of any issues that may prevent this as soon as possible.
"Some progress has been made in respect of planning how matches may take place, with draft operational plans put before the board at this week’s meeting and incorporating many areas such as: stadium preparation, medical provisions, staffing, media access and, of course, measures needed to ensure the safety of all participants including first-team players and staff, match officials, and everyone else associated with the matchday environment.”
The Premier League remain in talks over ‘Project Restart’ with a date of June 8 targeted for a potential return to action.
West Brom are currently second in the table, six points clear in the automatic promotion places with only nine games remaining.
They are bidding for a return to the top flight at the second time of asking.


birminghammail--2020-05-01--Baker set to bring Carole Baskin case inspired by Tiger King to Birmingham

A professional cake-maker has created a stunning Carole Baskin cake inspired by the hit Tiger King documentary .
Verity Malinowska , 33 , spent two days made the detailed bust of the Big Cat campaigner - and said it was some of her finest work .
She was inspired after recently teaming up with the Cake Decorating Company to showcase her incredible creations .
One of the company 's other ambassadors is Ben the BakeKing , from Channel 4 ’ s Extreme Cake Makers , and he recently made a Joe Exotic cake .
Verity responded with one of Carol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tiger King in the popular Netflix series .
Verity said : `` I teamed up with them just before the lockdown kicked in so I 've just been stuck at home .
`` Ben made a cake of Joe Exotic so I thought I 'd do Carole .
`` I 'm not her biggest fan , I watched the show - it was brilliantly hilarious so I wanted to immortalise her .
`` It took a couple of days to make , I 've made busts before but she 's much more detailed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It was a new challenge to make something so lifelike . ''
Verity lives in Plymouth , Devon , with her husband - Paul Malinowski ( corr ) , 32 , and their four year old son - Jack .
She said that baking the cake had to be juggled around keeping their young son entertained during the lockdown .
Verity added : `` She 's a chocolate orange sponge cake .
The sponge layer is like a regular cake , the most important thing is structure with a cake this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in B & Q than I do in cake shops .
`` When you make some thing big you need a structure so it 's strong enough , this one is made around a frame of wood wrapped in tinfoil .
`` When you carve up you have to go around the wood .
`` I guess I 'm a bit of a carpenter too , but my husband helps me with the frames .
I mostly just draw what I want him to make . ''
With the sponge inside the frame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a thick layer of chocolate before applying different colours for the features .
She said that she used five different skin-tone colours on Carole 's face to give her an authentic look .
Verity added : `` After the frame I have to ganache the cake , it 's a mixture of cream and chocolate .
`` It makes it quite firm then and I 'm able to sculpt it .
I add in the features and I air brush the cake with food colouring .
`` There are skin toned colours , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the face .
`` People loved the Carole Baskin cake , it 's been shared online a lot .
`` She 's gone now , she 's been sliced up and fed to the neighbours . ''
Verity was due to be showing her creations at cake shows around the country , including London this weekend , but they have all been cancelled due the pandemic .
Verity is set to display at the Cake International show at the Birmingham NEC in November .

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A professional cake-maker has created a stunning Carole Baskin cake inspired by the hit Tiger King documentary.
Verity Malinowska, 33, spent two days made the detailed bust of the Big Cat campaigner - and said it was some of her finest work.
She was inspired after recently teaming up with the Cake Decorating Company to showcase her incredible creations.
One of the company's other ambassadors is Ben the BakeKing, from Channel 4’s Extreme Cake Makers, and he recently made a Joe Exotic cake.
Verity responded with one of Carol - who was the nemesis of the Tiger King in the popular Netflix series.
Verity said: "I teamed up with them just before the lockdown kicked in so I've just been stuck at home.
(Image: Verity Malinowska / SWNS.COM)
"Ben made a cake of Joe Exotic so I thought I'd do Carole.
"I'm not her biggest fan, I watched the show - it was brilliantly hilarious so I wanted to immortalise her.
"It took a couple of days to make, I've made busts before but she's much more detailed with lines and wrinkles on her face.
"It was a new challenge to make something so lifelike."
Verity lives in Plymouth, Devon, with her husband - Paul Malinowski (corr), 32, and their four year old son - Jack.
(Image: Verity Malinowska / SWNS.COM)
She said that baking the cake had to be juggled around keeping their young son entertained during the lockdown.
Verity added: "She's a chocolate orange sponge cake. The sponge layer is like a regular cake, the most important thing is structure with a cake this big.
"I spend more time in B&Q than I do in cake shops.
"When you make some thing big you need a structure so it's strong enough, this one is made around a frame of wood wrapped in tinfoil.
"When you carve up you have to go around the wood.
"I guess I'm a bit of a carpenter too, but my husband helps me with the frames. I mostly just draw what I want him to make."
With the sponge inside the frame, Verity then covers the cake with a thick layer of chocolate before applying different colours for the features.
She said that she used five different skin-tone colours on Carole's face to give her an authentic look.
Verity added: "After the frame I have to ganache the cake, it's a mixture of cream and chocolate.
"It makes it quite firm then and I'm able to sculpt it. I add in the features and I air brush the cake with food colouring.
"There are skin toned colours, I used at least five different colours on the face.
(Image: Verity Malinowska / SWNS.COM)
"People loved the Carole Baskin cake, it's been shared online a lot.
"She's gone now, she's been sliced up and fed to the neighbours."
Verity was due to be showing her creations at cake shows around the country, including London this weekend, but they have all been cancelled due the pandemic.
Verity is set to display at the Cake International show at the Birmingham NEC in November.


birminghammail--2020-05-01--Dudley father appears in court charged with murdering baby daughter

A Dudley father accused of murdering his baby daughter has been released on bail as he awaits his next court appearance .
The five-month-old was taken to hospital in cardiac arrest on September 8 , 2017 .
Sadly , the youngster died the next day .
West Midlands Police arrested her father , Philip Peace in May the following year - eight months after the tot 's death .
Keep up-to-date with all things Dudley , Walsall , Sandwell and Wolverhampton on our Black Country Live Facebook page - where you 'll get the latest news , travel , weather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area , join our Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group .
He was charged with his daughter 's murder on Wednesday ( April 29 ) .
The 42-year-old appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates ' Court on Thursday ( April 30 ) , where he was remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Wolverhampton Crown Court today ( Friday , May 1 ) .
Following the crown court hearing , Peace , of Himley Road , was bailed ahead of his next appearance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to enter a plea .

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A Dudley father accused of murdering his baby daughter has been released on bail as he awaits his next court appearance.
The five-month-old was taken to hospital in cardiac arrest on September 8, 2017.
Sadly, the youngster died the next day.
West Midlands Police arrested her father, Philip Peace in May the following year - eight months after the tot's death.
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Keep up-to-date with all things Dudley, Walsall, Sandwell and Wolverhampton on our Black Country Live Facebook page - where you'll get the latest news, travel, weather and events in your area.
To be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area, join our Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group.
He was charged with his daughter's murder on Wednesday (April 29).
The 42-year-old appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Thursday (April 30), where he was remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Wolverhampton Crown Court today (Friday, May 1).
Following the crown court hearing, Peace, of Himley Road, was bailed ahead of his next appearance on June 16, when he is expected to enter a plea.


birminghammail--2020-05-01--EFL write to Birmingham City and Championship rivals about resumption

Chairman Rick Parry has insisted that the EFL remain determined to finish the season in an open letter to all 71 clubs .
All professional matches in England have been suspended since mid-March and talks continue over when or whether the season will resume .
Both France and the Netherlands have cancelled the remaining matches in their top-flight but Parry insists the EFL will not follow suit and remain in constant dialogue with the government .
An open letter read : “ Whilst there is still no further clarity on a return of EFL matches , the objective remains to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign at the current 71 EFL grounds .
`` It is important that any clubs notify the EFL of any issues that may prevent this as soon as possible .
`` Some progress has been made in respect of planning how matches may take place , with draft operational plans put before the board at this week ’ s meeting and incorporating many areas such as : stadium preparation , medical provisions , staffing , media access and , of course , measures needed to ensure the safety of all participants including first-team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and everyone else associated with the matchday environment.
” The Premier League remain in talks over ‘ Project Restart ’ with a date of June 8 targeted for a potential return to action .
Blues are currently 16th in the table , eight points off the bottom three - and nine off the play-offs .

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Chairman Rick Parry has insisted that the EFL remain determined to finish the season in an open letter to all 71 clubs.
All professional matches in England have been suspended since mid-March and talks continue over when or whether the season will resume.
Both France and the Netherlands have cancelled the remaining matches in their top-flight but Parry insists the EFL will not follow suit and remain in constant dialogue with the government.
An open letter read: “Whilst there is still no further clarity on a return of EFL matches, the objective remains to play the remaining fixtures for the 2019-20 campaign at the current 71 EFL grounds.
"It is important that any clubs notify the EFL of any issues that may prevent this as soon as possible.
"Some progress has been made in respect of planning how matches may take place, with draft operational plans put before the board at this week’s meeting and incorporating many areas such as: stadium preparation, medical provisions, staffing, media access and, of course, measures needed to ensure the safety of all participants including first-team players and staff, match officials, and everyone else associated with the matchday environment.”
The Premier League remain in talks over ‘Project Restart’ with a date of June 8 targeted for a potential return to action.
Blues are currently 16th in the table, eight points off the bottom three - and nine off the play-offs.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Experts predict the outcome of Leeds and West Brom title race

Supporters of Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion have been left on tenterhooks – with the Premier League tantalisingly close yet still out of reach .
Marcelo Bielsa and Slaven Bilic might yet end up taking their teams to the top flight – all options remain on the pandemic-affected table .
It is still the hope of the EFL and the 24 Championship clubs that the league will be completed at some point this summer .
But it was due to be completed today .
Leeds were due to welcome Charlton to Elland Road this afternoon , with the Baggies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked experts in the Department of Economics at the University of Reading to predict what might have happened .
They describe how Professor James Reade and his team have used the same methods they use to forecast inflation or gross domestic product ( GDP ) to predict the results of the remaining Championship games .
“ We look at all the scorelines in the history of football essentially , and that gives us a sense of how likely a team is to score zero , one , two , three , four goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told BBC Sport .
“ You look back at previous matches and say when a weaker team was playing a stronger team , how many will they have scored if it was this point in the season , if this had just happened , and so on .
`` What that gives us for each team and each match is an expected number of goals .
“ It ’ s a bit like playing a computer game , but we do it lots and lots of times , as the more times you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sense of all the kinds of quirky different realities that might have happened - but also what was most likely to happen.
” All of which left the top six looking like this .
Leeds won the title in 54.8 % of Professor Reade ’ s 10,000 simulations and finished second in 35.1 % .
Their chances of automatic promotion were just under 90 % .
West Brom were likely to finish second at 43.9 % , while they would top the table 39.6 % of the time – and 83 % chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other end of the table Birmingham City were most likely to come 16th – with Charlton , Luton and Barnsley going down .

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Supporters of Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion have been left on tenterhooks – with the Premier League tantalisingly close yet still out of reach.
Marcelo Bielsa and Slaven Bilic might yet end up taking their teams to the top flight – all options remain on the pandemic-affected table.
It is still the hope of the EFL and the 24 Championship clubs that the league will be completed at some point this summer.
But it was due to be completed today. Leeds were due to welcome Charlton to Elland Road this afternoon, with the Baggies hosting QPR.
Instead the BBC have asked experts in the Department of Economics at the University of Reading to predict what might have happened.
They describe how Professor James Reade and his team have used the same methods they use to forecast inflation or gross domestic product (GDP) to predict the results of the remaining Championship games.
“We look at all the scorelines in the history of football essentially, and that gives us a sense of how likely a team is to score zero, one, two, three, four goals and so on,” Professor Reade told BBC Sport.
“You look back at previous matches and say when a weaker team was playing a stronger team, how many will they have scored if it was this point in the season, if this had just happened, and so on.
"What that gives us for each team and each match is an expected number of goals.
“It’s a bit like playing a computer game, but we do it lots and lots of times, as the more times you do it the more you get a sense of all the kinds of quirky different realities that might have happened - but also what was most likely to happen.”
All of which left the top six looking like this.
1. Leeds
2. West Brom
3. Fulham
4. Brentford
5. Nottingham Forest
6. Millwall
Leeds won the title in 54.8% of Professor Reade’s 10,000 simulations and finished second in 35.1%. Their chances of automatic promotion were just under 90%.
West Brom were likely to finish second at 43.9%, while they would top the table 39.6% of the time – and 83% chance of going up automatically.
At the other end of the table Birmingham City were most likely to come 16th – with Charlton, Luton and Barnsley going down.
More here.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Premier League set to make major decision involving Villa Park

Villa Park is set to be named as one of the neutral venues used to complete the Premier League season , according to reports in the national press .
The 20 top-flight clubs , including Aston Villa , met on Friday to discuss how and when the Premier League season could be finished , amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The Mirror report that plans were submitted to clubs at Friday ’ s meeting , with a list of 8-10 ‘ neutral and approved ’ stadiums that could be in use .
It is said they will be stadiums located outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facilites .
The report lists Brighton ’ s Amex Stadium , Manchester City ’ s Etihad Stadium , St Mary ’ s in Southampton , as well as West Ham ’ s Olympic Stadium , King Power in Leicester and Villa ’ s famous old ground in B6 .
The report claims that some clubs are ‘ bitterly opposed ’ to the idea of playing in neutral venues , with teams giving up home advantage .
Initially , there were plans for further talks between the Premier League clubs on May 15 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to next week , when the Government is also expected to update plans on the current terms of the lockdown .
Villa have the best home record of any of the teams involved in the relegation battle , with 17 of their 25 points coming in front of their own fans .
Villa Park has a rich history of being used as a neutral venue by the English Football Association .
It hosted a number of memorable FA Cup semi finals , as well as being chosen for England internationals during Wembley ’ @ @ @

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Villa Park is set to be named as one of the neutral venues used to complete the Premier League season, according to reports in the national press.
The 20 top-flight clubs, including Aston Villa, met on Friday to discuss how and when the Premier League season could be finished, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The Mirror report that plans were submitted to clubs at Friday’s meeting, with a list of 8-10 ‘neutral and approved’ stadiums that could be in use.
It is said they will be stadiums located outside of city centres and ones with modern facilites. The report lists Brighton’s Amex Stadium, Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, St Mary’s in Southampton, as well as West Ham’s Olympic Stadium, King Power in Leicester and Villa’s famous old ground in B6.
The report claims that some clubs are ‘bitterly opposed’ to the idea of playing in neutral venues, with teams giving up home advantage.
Initially, there were plans for further talks between the Premier League clubs on May 15, but then has now been moved forward to next week, when the Government is also expected to update plans on the current terms of the lockdown.
Villa have the best home record of any of the teams involved in the relegation battle, with 17 of their 25 points coming in front of their own fans.
Villa Park has a rich history of being used as a neutral venue by the English Football Association. It hosted a number of memorable FA Cup semi finals, as well as being chosen for England internationals during Wembley’s construction.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Mother fights off paedo trying to steal car with daughter inside

A mother fought off a knife-wielding paedophile on an Asda car park as he tried to rob the car with her little girl inside .
Natalie Grimes fought Duncan Johnson after he had demanded her handbag and car keys , just after she put her seven-year-old daughter in the car .
The sex offender grabbed his victim by the throat then held a blade above her head , the Liverpool Echo reports .
He told her `` I will f***ing kill you '' and brought it down just as Ms Grimes ' raised an arm to protect herself , slashing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her screaming child , the brave mum would n't let Johnson have the keys , and the drugged-up knifeman fled .
Johnson was chased by two men who had seen the weapon and they wrested him to the ground and held him until he was arrested .
Johnson has 30 past convictions for 128 offences and was on licence - having been released after abusing a little girl in a wood .
The pervert complained that when the witnesses caught him , they allegedly beat him up and he was hit with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the men for `` bravely '' pursuing and detaining him , as she jailed the `` dangerous '' menace .
Liverpool Crown Court heard he struck at the Asda store off Utting Avenue in Walton , at around 11.30am on Sunday , March 15 .
Ms Grimes was unloading her shopping from a trolley when Johnson said : `` Give me your f***ing bag and f***ing keys . ''
Iain Criddle , prosecuting , said : `` He then took hold of her by the throat and she said he tried to strangle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him away , before he made the death threat and slashed her coat , during what Ms Grimes perceived as a two-minute ordeal .
Mr Criddle said it was much shorter , but added : `` I suspect for the person who was suffering this attack , it will have seemed like a lifetime . ''
CCTV footage showed how Johnson had walked up and down , before spotting and pouncing on his vulnerable target .
When interviewed , Johnson , of Kelday Close , Northwood , Kirby , claimed he was chased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so tried to hide .
He was picked out in an identity parade but again lied to police , before finally admitting attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon .
Johnson 's criminal record started with an arson in 1991 when he was a youth and he was convicted of possessing an offensive weapon in 1995 .
He was jailed for nine years for robbery in 2008 after he and others stormed a 65-year-old man 's home , stabbed him in the neck with a knife , and stole £1,600 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2015 for causing or inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and causing a child to watch a sexual act .
Mr Criddle said : `` It is described as a situation where the defendant took young children to a park , woodland , where they engaged in sexual activity , and also a situation where he caused children to watch indecent material on a computer . ''
Neil Gunn , defending , said Johnson had spared his latest victim the `` trauma '' of having to relive the incident at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he had a `` difficult upbringing '' and gave evidence himself at a trial in 2010 , because he was `` a victim of matters that go back to his very early childhood '' .
Mr Gunn said the man responsible was convicted and jailed for life , and that the crimes may have impacted on his client 's offending .
`` It 's right to say there was perhaps some summary justice meted out at the time of his detention .
`` By the time he arrived at the police station @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fracture to his skull and he was sent to the Royal for a CT scan .
Fortunately for him and everyone else involved , that was not the case . ''
Mr Gunn said his client was a welder by trade , but at the time had been living in his brother 's garden in a tent , because the parents of the girl he abused had discovered his previous address , and it was n't safe for him to live in the area .
Judge Brandon said Johnson threatened to kill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her , in what she described as `` the worst experience of my life '' .
The judge said : `` She was worried you were going to drive away with her daughter . ''
Judge Brandon said there was no doubt both the mum and child suffered `` considerable emotional distress '' and the daughter was left `` traumatised '' .
She said : `` That little girl must have been terrified , as was her mother , who did all that she could to stop you taking that car with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him for six years , with an extended three years on licence .
Johnson will serve at least four years behind bars before he is eligible for parole .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Neil Docking, Andy Richardson)

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A mother fought off a knife-wielding paedophile on an Asda car park as he tried to rob the car with her little girl inside.
Natalie Grimes fought Duncan Johnson after he had demanded her handbag and car keys, just after she put her seven-year-old daughter in the car.
The sex offender grabbed his victim by the throat then held a blade above her head, the Liverpool Echo reports.
He told her "I will f***ing kill you" and brought it down just as Ms Grimes' raised an arm to protect herself, slashing her coat.
(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Fearing he would abduct her screaming child, the brave mum wouldn't let Johnson have the keys, and the drugged-up knifeman fled.
Johnson was chased by two men who had seen the weapon and they wrested him to the ground and held him until he was arrested.
Johnson has 30 past convictions for 128 offences and was on licence - having been released after abusing a little girl in a wood.
The pervert complained that when the witnesses caught him, they allegedly beat him up and he was hit with a bar.
But Judge Louise Brandon praised the men for "bravely" pursuing and detaining him, as she jailed the "dangerous" menace.
Liverpool Crown Court heard he struck at the Asda store off Utting Avenue in Walton, at around 11.30am on Sunday, March 15.
Ms Grimes was unloading her shopping from a trolley when Johnson said: "Give me your f***ing bag and f***ing keys."
Iain Criddle, prosecuting, said: "He then took hold of her by the throat and she said he tried to strangle her."
She tried to push him away, before he made the death threat and slashed her coat, during what Ms Grimes perceived as a two-minute ordeal.
Mr Criddle said it was much shorter, but added: "I suspect for the person who was suffering this attack, it will have seemed like a lifetime."
CCTV footage showed how Johnson had walked up and down, before spotting and pouncing on his vulnerable target.
When interviewed, Johnson, of Kelday Close, Northwood, Kirby, claimed he was chased for no reason and had been threatened, so tried to hide.
He was picked out in an identity parade but again lied to police, before finally admitting attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon.
(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Johnson's criminal record started with an arson in 1991 when he was a youth and he was convicted of possessing an offensive weapon in 1995.
He was jailed for nine years for robbery in 2008 after he and others stormed a 65-year-old man's home, stabbed him in the neck with a knife, and stole £1,600.
Johnson was locked up for six years in 2015 for causing or inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and causing a child to watch a sexual act.
Mr Criddle said: "It is described as a situation where the defendant took young children to a park, woodland, where they engaged in sexual activity, and also a situation where he caused children to watch indecent material on a computer."
Neil Gunn, defending, said Johnson had spared his latest victim the "trauma" of having to relive the incident at a trial by pleading guilty.
He said he had a "difficult upbringing" and gave evidence himself at a trial in 2010, because he was "a victim of matters that go back to his very early childhood".
Mr Gunn said the man responsible was convicted and jailed for life, and that the crimes may have impacted on his client's offending.
"It's right to say there was perhaps some summary justice meted out at the time of his detention.
"By the time he arrived at the police station the duty nurse suspected he might have a fracture to his skull and he was sent to the Royal for a CT scan. Fortunately for him and everyone else involved, that was not the case."
Mr Gunn said his client was a welder by trade, but at the time had been living in his brother's garden in a tent, because the parents of the girl he abused had discovered his previous address, and it wasn't safe for him to live in the area.
Judge Brandon said Johnson threatened to kill Ms Grimes before swinging the knife at her, in what she described as "the worst experience of my life".
The judge said: "She was worried you were going to drive away with her daughter."
Judge Brandon said there was no doubt both the mum and child suffered "considerable emotional distress" and the daughter was left "traumatised".
She said: "That little girl must have been terrified, as was her mother, who did all that she could to stop you taking that car with her child in it.
"She was incredibly brave."
Judge Brandon jailed him for six years, with an extended three years on licence.
Johnson will serve at least four years behind bars before he is eligible for parole.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Gary Neville compares Jack Grealish to Manchester United Cantona

Manchester United ’ s transfer plans have provoked an avalanche of comment from pundits and supporters alike .
Old Trafford legend Gary Neville just happens to be both , a lifelong Red and one of the most strident and well-informed talking heads on TV .
And the former England defender has been at it again , discussing United ’ s interest in James Maddison and Jack Grealish .
Leicester are refusing to sell Maddison but there is every chance Grealish could leave Aston Villa at the end of the season .
And Neville has hailed both , indentifying their arrogance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ re quick to mention players like Maddison being cocky , ” Neville told Sky Sports .
“ We used to say it about players like Joe Cole and Matt Le Tissier .
Eric Cantona obviously was seen as an arrogant and cocky player .
Jack Grealish has had it as well and there ’ s a stigma attached to some players .
“ But actually that ’ s why they are the players they are .
They ’ ve got flair , ability , they want to look good and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re brilliant to watch and he [ Maddison ] is a fantastic player and I ’ m sure Leicester will be working very hard to make sure they hang on to him .
”

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Manchester United’s transfer plans have provoked an avalanche of comment from pundits and supporters alike.
Old Trafford legend Gary Neville just happens to be both, a lifelong Red and one of the most strident and well-informed talking heads on TV.
And the former England defender has been at it again, discussing United’s interest in James Maddison and Jack Grealish.
Leicester are refusing to sell Maddison but there is every chance Grealish could leave Aston Villa at the end of the season.
And Neville has hailed both, indentifying their arrogance as one of their key attributes.
“We’re quick to mention players like Maddison being cocky,” Neville told Sky Sports.
“We used to say it about players like Joe Cole and Matt Le Tissier. Eric Cantona obviously was seen as an arrogant and cocky player. Jack Grealish has had it as well and there’s a stigma attached to some players.
“But actually that’s why they are the players they are. They’ve got flair, ability, they want to look good and look the part.
“They’re brilliant to watch and he [Maddison] is a fantastic player and I’m sure Leicester will be working very hard to make sure they hang on to him.”


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Family put on eye-catching display in support of key workers

A Walsall family have put on a colourful tribute to show their support for frontline staff , who are working during the coronavirus pandemic .
The Mohammadi family decided to colour part of their home in beautiful rainbow colours to keep busy during the lockdown .
Ricardo , 10 , Leah , eight , Lawi , six , and two-year-old Adam , took almost three hours to colour their home with chalks they had found .
It was n't long before their efforts were spotted by two police officers patrolling in Dairy Close on Wednesday , April 22 .
PCSO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the smart idea , which the children had come up with and praised them for their hard work .
Speaking to Black Country Live , mum Lindsey said : `` We wanted to do something that showed appreciation to the key workers through this awful time .
`` It was also something fun to do and keep the children busy while they were off school .
`` People have asked us what we used and I told them just chalk .
Others have said we have done a great job and what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shocked it is still on even though it has rained . ''

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A Walsall family have put on a colourful tribute to show their support for frontline staff, who are working during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Mohammadi family decided to colour part of their home in beautiful rainbow colours to keep busy during the lockdown.
Ricardo, 10, Leah, eight, Lawi, six, and two-year-old Adam, took almost three hours to colour their home with chalks they had found.
(Image: WMP)
It wasn't long before their efforts were spotted by two police officers patrolling in Dairy Close on Wednesday, April 22.
PCSO Hickman and PCSO Bahia were very impressed with the smart idea, which the children had come up with and praised them for their hard work.
Speaking to Black Country Live, mum Lindsey said: "We wanted to do something that showed appreciation to the key workers through this awful time.
"It was also something fun to do and keep the children busy while they were off school.
"People have asked us what we used and I told them just chalk. Others have said we have done a great job and what we have done is beautiful and are shocked it is still on even though it has rained."


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Aston Villa defender Neil Taylor drops major hint about his future

Neil Taylor has revealed he has plans to go into coaching when he retires in the future .
The Aston Villa defender started the season as Dean Smith ’ s first choice left-back , before Frederic Guilbert took over the position .
He has since been a man on the peripheries at Villa Park , making just three Premier League appearances since the end of September .
And with one year left on his Villa contract , Taylor ’ s long-term future is up in the air .
The 31-year-old is currently completing his A Licence coaching badges and has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his next move .
`` I think I have always had a slight eye for it ( coaching ) , '' Taylor told BBC Radio Wales .
`` It is difficult , but I find it really enjoyable ; it is the other side of the game that players are prepared for even earlier every year now .
`` I see a lot of footballers go out of the game and have so much experience and know-how to give to younger players .
`` It is a massive commitment , it is like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with much longer hours and more stress so I understand why people do n't do it . ''

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Neil Taylor has revealed he has plans to go into coaching when he retires in the future.
The Aston Villa defender started the season as Dean Smith’s first choice left-back, before Frederic Guilbert took over the position.
He has since been a man on the peripheries at Villa Park, making just three Premier League appearances since the end of September.
And with one year left on his Villa contract, Taylor’s long-term future is up in the air.
The 31-year-old is currently completing his A Licence coaching badges and has admitted he already has an eye on his next move.
"I think I have always had a slight eye for it (coaching)," Taylor told BBC Radio Wales.
"It is difficult, but I find it really enjoyable; it is the other side of the game that players are prepared for even earlier every year now.
"I see a lot of footballers go out of the game and have so much experience and know-how to give to younger players.
"It is a massive commitment, it is like the job I do now, but with much longer hours and more stress so I understand why people don't do it."


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Police swoop on 'drug dealing teens who stood out during lockdown'

Three teenagers who were allegedly drug dealing were caught because they were breaking social distancing rules .
The trio - all aged 19- were pulled over by suspicious officers as their car drove along Walford Road , off Stratford Road , in Sparkbrook .
Cops carried out a search and discovered a large quantity of cash , drugs and a weapon .
They were arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon .
They have been released while investigations continue .
The incident happened around 5.40pm on Thursday ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than two people are banned under strict lockdown restrictions which were placed across the UK by Prime Minster Boris Johnson on March 23 .
The only exceptions include essential shopping , tending to a vulnerable person , exercise or to go to a job which can not be done at home .
Officers tweeted that the youths stuck out because they were in clear breach of social rules .
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said : “ Three teenagers , aged 19 , were arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an offensive weapon after officers pulled their car over on Walford Road , Sparkbrook at 5.40pm on Thursday ( 30 April ) .
“ They have all been released while enquiries continue.
” Sparkbrook police tweeted : “ Impact Team have arrested 3 males on Walford Road , Sparkbrook for being in possession of weapons , large quantities of cash and drugs .
“ All 3 males were in breach of the Covid-19 guidance which made them stand out even further .
”

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Three teenagers who were allegedly drug dealing were caught because they were breaking social distancing rules.
The trio - all aged 19- were pulled over by suspicious officers as their car drove along Walford Road, off Stratford Road, in Sparkbrook.
Cops carried out a search and discovered a large quantity of cash, drugs and a weapon.
They were arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon. They have been released while investigations continue.
The incident happened around 5.40pm on Thursday (April 30).
Gatherings of more than two people are banned under strict lockdown restrictions which were placed across the UK by Prime Minster Boris Johnson on March 23.
The only exceptions include essential shopping, tending to a vulnerable person, exercise or to go to a job which cannot be done at home.
Officers tweeted that the youths stuck out because they were in clear breach of social rules.
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said: “Three teenagers, aged 19, were arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon after officers pulled their car over on Walford Road, Sparkbrook at 5.40pm on Thursday (30 April).
“They have all been released while enquiries continue.”
Sparkbrook police tweeted: “Impact Team have arrested 3 males on Walford Road, Sparkbrook for being in possession of weapons, large quantities of cash and drugs.
“All 3 males were in breach of the Covid-19 guidance which made them stand out even further.”


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Mystery as stolen people carrier abandoned in middle of nature reserve

A stolen people carrier has appeared overnight in the middle of a nature reserve - leaving police baffled .
Officers discovered the vehicle - believed to be a Ford Galaxy - abandoned in grassland near to Hilltop Golf Club on Saturday morning ( May 2 ) .
The car was seen trapped within a vast expanse of woodland by the Handsworth golf course , off Silvercroft Avenue at around 9am .
But police officers tasked with seizing the vehicle and investigating the theft have been left perplexed over the discovery .
No keys were found and the barrel had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not known how the vehicle came to be within the nature reserve and officers appealed for anyone with clues to get in touch .
Force Response officers shared the above video of their find and said : `` Anyone got any bright ideas ?
?
This stolen vehicle is in the middle of a nature reserve .
No keys and Barrel has been forced .
Also wedges on the pole .
`` I ’ ve seen a few chinnock ’ s flying round recently ?
!
?
Maybe Army West Mids could call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should contact the force on 101 , via live chat or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

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A stolen people carrier has appeared overnight in the middle of a nature reserve - leaving police baffled.
Officers discovered the vehicle - believed to be a Ford Galaxy - abandoned in grassland near to Hilltop Golf Club on Saturday morning (May 2).
The car was seen trapped within a vast expanse of woodland by the Handsworth golf course, off Silvercroft Avenue at around 9am.
But police officers tasked with seizing the vehicle and investigating the theft have been left perplexed over the discovery.
No keys were found and the barrel had been forced, they said.
It is not known how the vehicle came to be within the nature reserve and officers appealed for anyone with clues to get in touch.
Force Response officers shared the above video of their find and said: "Anyone got any bright ideas?? This stolen vehicle is in the middle of a nature reserve. No keys and Barrel has been forced. Also wedges on the pole.
"I’ve seen a few chinnock’s flying round recently ?!? Maybe Army West Mids could call one in."
Anyone with information should contact the force on 101, via live chat or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--JustGiving issues statement over Captain Tom Moore fee rumours

Fundraising site JustGiving has issued a statement over ‘ misinformation ’ being spread about whether they are taking a big cut of Captain Tom Moore ’ s incredible £30m fundraiser .
The hero has captured the hearts of a nation after he took on the challenge of completing 100 laps of his garden , pledging to raise millions of pounds for the NHS in the process .
Captain Tom , who turned 100 on Thursday , has raised more than £32 million for the NHS and was promoted to honorary colonel for the occasion to mark his incredible landmark birthday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rumours have been circulating that the fundraising site is keeping £2 million commission of his total on a series of Facebook posts that have been liked and shared thousands of times .
JustGiving say they abolished platform fees and moved to a voluntary contributions model in March 2019 .
They said : “ Our team was very proud to host his campaign on JustGiving and we were inspired to make the biggest donation in our history , of £100,000 , to NHS Charities Together - in Captain Tom ’ s name .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are not familiar with how JustGiving ’ s fee structure works and there has been some misinformation circulating online about our fees.
” A spokesperson for the company said that that 97 percent of all funds raised by Captain Tom will go directly to NHS Charities Together .
The other three per cent breaks down into site and staff costs as well as a “ small processing fee ” of 1.9 % + 20p is applied to donations which covers card payment charges .
The company also pledged a donation of £100,000 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ 97 percent of all funds raised by Captain Tom will go directly to NHS Charities Together , as with any other charity fundraiser on JustGiving .
“ The whole country has been inspired by Captain Tom ’ s campaign and our team has worked around the clock to support him and the hundreds of thousands of people donating through JustGiving .
“ To mark Captain Tom reaching the £10million milestone on Thursday , we made a £100,000 donation to support his campaign .
“ Anyone using our platform has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support JustGiving if they choose to .
Those donations go towards maintaining the technology that keeps our site running and secure 24/7 but people can of course donate nothing at all if they wish .
“ A small processing fee of 1.9 % + 20p is applied to donations which covers card payment charges , which are set by external card providers , and the costs of processing millions of donations .
This is in line with industry standards .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Vickie Scullard, Andy Richardson)

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Fundraising site JustGiving has issued a statement over ‘misinformation’ being spread about whether they are taking a big cut of Captain Tom Moore’s incredible £30m fundraiser.
The hero has captured the hearts of a nation after he took on the challenge of completing 100 laps of his garden, pledging to raise millions of pounds for the NHS in the process.
Captain Tom, who turned 100 on Thursday, has raised more than £32 million for the NHS and was promoted to honorary colonel for the occasion to mark his incredible landmark birthday.
(Image: Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
According to the Manchester Evening News rumours have been circulating that the fundraising site is keeping £2 million commission of his total on a series of Facebook posts that have been liked and shared thousands of times.
JustGiving say they abolished platform fees and moved to a voluntary contributions model in March 2019.
They said: “Our team was very proud to host his campaign on JustGiving and we were inspired to make the biggest donation in our history, of £100,000, to NHS Charities Together - in Captain Tom’s name.
“We’re aware that some people are not familiar with how JustGiving’s fee structure works and there has been some misinformation circulating online about our fees.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A spokesperson for the company said that that 97 percent of all funds raised by Captain Tom will go directly to NHS Charities Together.
The other three per cent breaks down into site and staff costs as well as a “small processing fee” of 1.9% + 20p is applied to donations which covers card payment charges.
The company also pledged a donation of £100,000 to Tom’s campaign.
The spokesperson said: “97 percent of all funds raised by Captain Tom will go directly to NHS Charities Together, as with any other charity fundraiser on JustGiving.
“The whole country has been inspired by Captain Tom’s campaign and our team has worked around the clock to support him and the hundreds of thousands of people donating through JustGiving.
“To mark Captain Tom reaching the £10million milestone on Thursday, we made a £100,000 donation to support his campaign.
“Anyone using our platform has the choice to make a voluntary donation to support JustGiving if they choose to. Those donations go towards maintaining the technology that keeps our site running and secure 24/7 but people can of course donate nothing at all if they wish.
“A small processing fee of 1.9% + 20p is applied to donations which covers card payment charges, which are set by external card providers, and the costs of processing millions of donations. This is in line with industry standards.”
Visit Captain Tom's fundraiser here


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Fury as Gogglebox star Izzi threatens to 'egg' Boris Johnson in TV rant

Gogglebox star Izzi has been slammed by fans after she threatened to `` egg '' Prime Minster Boris Johnson .
She made the comment to sister Ellie while watching a clip of the PM returning to Downing Street following his Covid-19 battle .
The clip showed Boris encouraging the country to keep persevering with lockdown and continue to stay at home .
But Izzi and Ellie were n't impressed as reported by the Daily Star .
They ranted that it would be `` easier '' to `` have hope '' if the PM would release the government 's plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taking it further , Izzi said : `` I would egg him if I was in a disguise and if I could easily get away . ''
`` No you would n't , '' Ellie responded while cackling .
`` Oh , I would , '' Izzi replied .
Fans were left furious by the remarks just days after the PM left the intensive care ward after battling for his life .
Rushing to Twitter , one tweeted : `` Ellie & Izzy slagging of Boris Johnson , and wanting to egg him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` Gogglebox starting with someone wanting to egg Boris ... C4 is a left-wing pile of **** , '' tweeted another .
Another said : `` Those last few minutes knocking the government completely ruined the show tonight .
Shame on Channel for trying to score political points .
DISGUSTED . ''
The pair were also slammed by fans who accused them of not social-distancing .
One wrote : `` If we aren ’ t allowed to visit family , aren ’ t allowed in each other 's homes due to lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now in the same house again and the Siddiquis brothers ?
? ''
The sisters , who reportedly live in different homes , reunited and sat on separate sofas two-metres apart .
But fans argued that they `` should n't '' be going into each other 's homes in light of the government restrictions .
Gogglebox continues on Channel 4 next Friday at 9pm .

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Gogglebox star Izzi has been slammed by fans after she threatened to "egg" Prime Minster Boris Johnson.
She made the comment to sister Ellie while watching a clip of the PM returning to Downing Street following his Covid-19 battle.
The clip showed Boris encouraging the country to keep persevering with lockdown and continue to stay at home.
But Izzi and Ellie weren't impressed as reported by the Daily Star.
(Image: Channel 4)
They ranted that it would be "easier" to "have hope" if the PM would release the government's plans to ease the UK out of lockdown.
Taking it further, Izzi said: "I would egg him if I was in a disguise and if I could easily get away."
"No you wouldn't," Ellie responded while cackling.
"Oh, I would," Izzi replied.
(Image: Getty)
Fans were left furious by the remarks just days after the PM left the intensive care ward after battling for his life.
Rushing to Twitter, one tweeted: "Ellie & Izzy slagging of Boris Johnson, and wanting to egg him, not cool in any way."
"Gogglebox starting with someone wanting to egg Boris... C4 is a left-wing pile of ****," tweeted another.
Another said: "Those last few minutes knocking the government completely ruined the show tonight. Shame on Channel for trying to score political points. DISGUSTED."
The pair were also slammed by fans who accused them of not social-distancing.
One wrote: "If we aren’t allowed to visit family, aren’t allowed in each other's homes due to lockdown, how are the Ellie & Izzi now in the same house again and the Siddiquis brothers??"
The sisters, who reportedly live in different homes, reunited and sat on separate sofas two-metres apart.
But fans argued that they "shouldn't" be going into each other's homes in light of the government restrictions.
Gogglebox continues on Channel 4 next Friday at 9pm.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Man United believe they have major advantage in Bellingham chase

Manchester United believe Sir Alex Ferguson has proved pivotal in the race for Birmingham City star Jude Bellingham , according to reports .
The Blues wonderkid is one of the most highly-sought after youngsters in world football , after breaking into Pep Clotet ’ s team this season .
Man United have been extensively linked with Bellingham , with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to build a side capable of competing for the Premier League title .
However , United aren ’ t his only possible destination , with a number of the biggest clubs in European football credited with an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dortmund are all believed to be keen , with the Bundesliga club pinpointing him as one of their transfer priorities .
There have been contrasting reports on who could sign Bellingham , but Bleacher Report have claimed that the former United boss may have proved key .
Ferguson was a member of the party that gave Bellingham a tour of United ’ s Carrington training ground and they believe that could be pivotal in him opting to move to Old Trafford .
The report suggest Dortmund were confident before the coronavirus break , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rethink due to the uncertain financial climate .

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Manchester United believe Sir Alex Ferguson has proved pivotal in the race for Birmingham City star Jude Bellingham, according to reports.
The Blues wonderkid is one of the most highly-sought after youngsters in world football, after breaking into Pep Clotet’s team this season.
Man United have been extensively linked with Bellingham, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to build a side capable of competing for the Premier League title.
However, United aren’t his only possible destination, with a number of the biggest clubs in European football credited with an interest.
Liverpool, Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund are all believed to be keen, with the Bundesliga club pinpointing him as one of their transfer priorities.
There have been contrasting reports on who could sign Bellingham, but Bleacher Report have claimed that the former United boss may have proved key.
Ferguson was a member of the party that gave Bellingham a tour of United’s Carrington training ground and they believe that could be pivotal in him opting to move to Old Trafford.
The report suggest Dortmund were confident before the coronavirus break, but they could be forced into a rethink due to the uncertain financial climate.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Watch as 'innocent cyclist repeatedly punched by police officer'

This is the shocking moment a man is hauled over the bonnet of a police car and and repeatedly punched by an officer investigating a bicycle theft .
The West Midlands cop involved in the incident in Frederick Road Aston on April 20 has now been suspended after the CCTV emerged .
He is the same officer also accused of attacking a schoolboy in a separate complaint just one day later , also caught on film .
The cyclist , who suffered bruising to his torso , says he was wholly innocent .
He says he was riding his own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was stopped .
And he claims officers were informed at the scene that the stolen bike had been found .
In any case , his bicycle is grey .
The stolen machine was black .
The 44-year-old ’ s treatment is now the subject of a formal complaint lodged by Birmingham community activist Desmond Jaddoo , acting on behalf of the cyclist .
Mr Jaddoo has accused police of racial discrimination , assault , false imprisonment and use of excessive and unjustified force .
“ This man was only guilty of riding his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which he has been told he can do , '' he said .
“ When it comes to the police , relationships with the African-Caribbean community are strained .
And they will continue to be strained until incidents like this are wiped out.
” West Midlands Police said its Professional Standards Department has referred both incidents to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and has suspended the officer from duty .
The cyclist , from Aston , has asked us not to reveal his name .
He is , Mr Jaddoo stressed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjected to the violence while cycling – in face mask and gloves to protect against coronavirus infection – along Frederick Road at 11.45am on April 20 .
He says he was stopped by a male and female officer on suspicion of riding a stolen bike .
A six minute , 30 seconds video shows him being taken by both arms to the squad car , then pushed onto the bonnet .
While being handcuffed , he appears to be punched four times in the right-hand side of the stomach .
He is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not clear in the video , the man insists he was pepper sprayed .
When he is cuffed , the male officer answers his phone and walks out of view .
When he returns , a concerned passerby bathes the cyclist ’ s face with water .
At no time during film does the man appear to resist violently .
“ The footage speaks for itself , ” said Mr Jaddoo .
“ What appalls me is the fact that police appear to have no other description than the fact that the person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ His is clearly grey and white , yet they decide to take him off the bike during COVID-19 , attempt to pull his facemask off and slam him against the bonnet .
“ The individual concerned has told me he does not want to speak publicly .
He is frightened , he has been humiliated in public .
He tells me he has never been in trouble .
“ To be targeted in this way is clearly unacceptable .
He didn ’ t even receive an apology.
” Through Mr Jaddoo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve never been in trouble with the police .
I did nothing wrong , I had nothing to hide.
” The community activist is also concerned by the lack of virus protection worn by the officers .
“ Birmingham City Council has clearly stated the African Caribbean community has a lot of health inequalities , ” said Mr Jaddoo .
“ COVID-19 is happening .
“ The officers have hold of this man , who is clearly complying with advice about protective measures .
They are not wearing protective garments .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , had direct contact with him and were wearing no form of PPE . ''
The officer was previously filmed in a violent altercation with a 15-year-old boy in an alleyway in Newtown .
He was seen to 'strike and kick ' the teenager during a stop and search .
The force had been investigating that complaint when the cyclist video emerged this week .
A West Midlands Police spokesman said : `` We have suspended one of our officers following two complaints received about his conduct .
`` A complaint was received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 April in Melbourne Avenue , Newtown .
`` In the ensuing incident it is alleged that the officer used unnecessary force in striking and kicking the young person .
`` Our Professional Standards Department have already referred this matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who will now be carrying out an independent investigation into the officer ’ s conduct .
`` A further complaint was received yesterday ( 30 April ) which involves the same officer .
`` It relates to a prior incident on 20 April in Frederick Road @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a man they suspected was on a stolen bicycle .
`` The man was detained and it ’ s alleged the officer assaulted the man before he was released with no further action .
`` Our Professional Standards Department has also referred the newly identified incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and immediately suspended that officer from duty .
`` The conduct of the second officer involved in the more recently identified incident is also being referred .

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This is the shocking moment a man is hauled over the bonnet of a police car and and repeatedly punched by an officer investigating a bicycle theft.
The West Midlands cop involved in the incident in Frederick Road Aston on April 20 has now been suspended after the CCTV emerged.
He is the same officer also accused of attacking a schoolboy in a separate complaint just one day later, also caught on film.
The cyclist, who suffered bruising to his torso, says he was wholly innocent. He says he was riding his own bike for permitted pandemic exercise when he was stopped.
And he claims officers were informed at the scene that the stolen bike had been found. In any case, his bicycle is grey. The stolen machine was black.
The 44-year-old’s treatment is now the subject of a formal complaint lodged by Birmingham community activist Desmond Jaddoo, acting on behalf of the cyclist.
Mr Jaddoo has accused police of racial discrimination, assault, false imprisonment and use of excessive and unjustified force.
“This man was only guilty of riding his bicycle to take part in exercise, which he has been told he can do," he said.
“When it comes to the police, relationships with the African-Caribbean community are strained. And they will continue to be strained until incidents like this are wiped out.”
West Midlands Police said its Professional Standards Department has referred both incidents to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and has suspended the officer from duty.
The cyclist, from Aston, has asked us not to reveal his name. He is, Mr Jaddoo stressed, of previous good character.
He was subjected to the violence while cycling – in face mask and gloves to protect against coronavirus infection – along Frederick Road at 11.45am on April 20.
He says he was stopped by a male and female officer on suspicion of riding a stolen bike.
A six minute, 30 seconds video shows him being taken by both arms to the squad car, then pushed onto the bonnet.
While being handcuffed, he appears to be punched four times in the right-hand side of the stomach.
He is also slammed head-first against the bonnet. Although not clear in the video, the man insists he was pepper sprayed.
When he is cuffed, the male officer answers his phone and walks out of view. When he returns, a concerned passerby bathes the cyclist’s face with water.
At no time during film does the man appear to resist violently.
“The footage speaks for itself,” said Mr Jaddoo. “What appalls me is the fact that police appear to have no other description than the fact that the person they want is riding a black bike.
“His is clearly grey and white, yet they decide to take him off the bike during COVID-19, attempt to pull his facemask off and slam him against the bonnet.
“The individual concerned has told me he does not want to speak publicly. He is frightened, he has been humiliated in public. He tells me he has never been in trouble.
“To be targeted in this way is clearly unacceptable. He didn’t even receive an apology.”
Through Mr Jaddoo, the cyclist said: “I’ve never been in trouble with the police. I did nothing wrong, I had nothing to hide.”
The community activist is also concerned by the lack of virus protection worn by the officers.
“Birmingham City Council has clearly stated the African Caribbean community has a lot of health inequalities,” said Mr Jaddoo. “COVID-19 is happening.
“The officers have hold of this man, who is clearly complying with advice about protective measures. They are not wearing protective garments.
“They were in close proximity to him, had direct contact with him and were wearing no form of PPE."
(Image: SWNS)
The officer was previously filmed in a violent altercation with a 15-year-old boy in an alleyway in Newtown. He was seen to 'strike and kick' the teenager during a stop and search.
The force had been investigating that complaint when the cyclist video emerged this week.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We have suspended one of our officers following two complaints received about his conduct.
"A complaint was received after the officer stopped a teenager on 21 April in Melbourne Avenue, Newtown.
"In the ensuing incident it is alleged that the officer used unnecessary force in striking and kicking the young person.
"Our Professional Standards Department have already referred this matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who will now be carrying out an independent investigation into the officer’s conduct.
"A further complaint was received yesterday (30 April) which involves the same officer.
"It relates to a prior incident on 20 April in Frederick Road, Aston, where two officers stopped a man they suspected was on a stolen bicycle.
"The man was detained and it’s alleged the officer assaulted the man before he was released with no further action.
"Our Professional Standards Department has also referred the newly identified incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and immediately suspended that officer from duty.
"The conduct of the second officer involved in the more recently identified incident is also being referred.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Birmingham City make Xavi Calm coaching change

Birmingham City and Xavi Calm have mutually agreed to part ways .
The first team coach has been given permission @ @ @ @ @ family reasons thereby ending his relatively short stay with Blues .
Calm joined the club @ @ @ @ @ work as the head coach of the development squad .
However , he soon stepped @ @ @ @ @ role with the first team to work under Pep Clotet alongside Paco Herrera and Craig @ @ @ @ @ Herrera left just before last Christmas and Calm continued in his role when Alberto Escobar @ @ @ @ @ has been permission to return to Spain on compassionate grounds .
The 38-year-old joined from @ @ @ @ @ where he had been head coach for 12 months having spent the previous two years @ @ @ @ @ Segunda B club .

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Birmingham City and Xavi Calm have mutually agreed to part ways.
The first team coach has been given permission to return to Spain for family reasons thereby ending his relatively short stay with Blues.
Calm joined the club last summer, notionally to work as the head coach of the development squad.
However, he soon stepped into James Beattie’s role with the first team to work under Pep Clotet alongside Paco Herrera and Craig Gardner.
The vastly experienced Herrera left just before last Christmas and Calm continued in his role when Alberto Escobar came in.
But he has been permission to return to Spain on compassionate grounds.
The 38-year-old joined from sister club UE Cornella, where he had been head coach for 12 months having spent the previous two years as a coach with the Segunda B club.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Liverpool to miss out on Wolves star Adama Traore after update

Liverpool are ready to shelve plans to sign Adama Traore – with Jurgen Klopp ’ s side set to spend no money on transfers this summer .
The coronavirus pandemic is set to have a huge impact on clubs across the world , with teams forced to budget for games without supporters for the foreseeable future .
According to the Mirror , in a response to the crisis , the Reds are ready to abandon all of their summer transfer moves , with Traore heavily linked .
The Wolves winger emerged as a potential target for Klopp , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replacement for Mohammed Salah or Sadio Mane , should they leave the club this summer .
It is said that Wolves value Traore at around £70m , after becoming one of the most dangerous forward players in European football .
Traore 's agent recently sparked speculation , when he refused to rule out a move for his client , with the hope that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic would n't negatively affect him .
Rodri Baster said : “ I can ’ t talk about contractual situations because it ’ s a private matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , and with his age , conditions and the fact he ’ s a very appealing player , there would have been a market for him , no doubt about it .
“ We have to hope for the situation to normalise itself and hope that it won ’ t affect him this summer . ''
However , the report claims that Liverpool could face up to losing almost £100m in matchday revenue , should next season be played behind-closed-doors , as is expected .
And will not be focusing on incomings @ @ @ @ @ @

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Liverpool are ready to shelve plans to sign Adama Traore – with Jurgen Klopp’s side set to spend no money on transfers this summer.
The coronavirus pandemic is set to have a huge impact on clubs across the world, with teams forced to budget for games without supporters for the foreseeable future.
According to the Mirror, in a response to the crisis, the Reds are ready to abandon all of their summer transfer moves, with Traore heavily linked.
The Wolves winger emerged as a potential target for Klopp, with the Liverpool boss pinpointing him as a potential replacement for Mohammed Salah or Sadio Mane, should they leave the club this summer.
It is said that Wolves value Traore at around £70m, after becoming one of the most dangerous forward players in European football.
Traore's agent recently sparked speculation, when he refused to rule out a move for his client, with the hope that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic wouldn't negatively affect him.
Rodri Baster said: “I can’t talk about contractual situations because it’s a private matter, but Adama was having a good season, and with his age, conditions and the fact he’s a very appealing player, there would have been a market for him, no doubt about it.
“We have to hope for the situation to normalise itself and hope that it won’t affect him this summer."
However, the report claims that Liverpool could face up to losing almost £100m in matchday revenue, should next season be played behind-closed-doors, as is expected. And will not be focusing on incomings, when the window opens.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Boris Johnson 'to give go-ahead to return to work on May 26'

Prime-Minister Boris Johnson could give the go-ahead for people to return to work on May 26 if coronavirus cases plunge far enough .
The Tuesday after the second May Bank Holiday has been pencilled in as a potential return to work date , according to The Sun .
Boris is set to unveil his blueprint to take the nation out of the nationwide lockdown next Thursday .
In detailed plans being drawn up across government now , offices , factories and some shops will be given two-and-a-half weeks to install new government social distancing measures , such as perspex screens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Track and Trace programme to hunt down and isolate new Covid-19 infection chains will also be up and running by then to give extra protection against the virus spreading again .
The force of 18,000 trackers , copied from South Korea , has been given a start date of May 18 .
Downing Street is also nervous about acting before the second bank holiday this month , fearing millions would take it as a sign to head to parks and beaches over the early summer break .
If infections are not deemed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government ’ s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies , the plan will be delayed beyond May 26 .
Not all sectors will be told they can return to work that soon .
The hospitality and entertainment industries are expected to remain closed for months longer in a huge blow to pubs and restaurants .
Other coronavirus restrictions are also likely to remain in place for some time , such as the ban on all social gatherings .
Schools are also not expected to be told to reopen until June , which will stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work .
Ministers also now think they have a huge job to persuade millions of Brits to go back to work even when it is safe to do so .
Hosting No10 ’ s daily press conference on Friday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock attempted to reassure one nervous father by saying : “ We are not going to reopen schools if it isn ’ t entirely safe to do so ” .
But he ducked saying whether parents would be let off fines if they refused to send their kids back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s plan , Business Secretary Alok Sharma will next week publish nine different papers containing guidelines for all workers outlining how to keep safe .
They will range from outdoor work such as construction sites , to the high street , manufacturing sites and home visitors , such as plumbers and electricians .
Unions say they have been asked to prepare members to ramp up rail services from mid-May onwards .
But the Department for Transport said no formal instruction has been given to rail companies .
Up to half of all trains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown was ordered on March 23 .

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Prime-Minister Boris Johnson could give the go-ahead for people to return to work on May 26 if coronavirus cases plunge far enough.
The Tuesday after the second May Bank Holiday has been pencilled in as a potential return to work date, according to The Sun.
Boris is set to unveil his blueprint to take the nation out of the nationwide lockdown next Thursday.
In detailed plans being drawn up across government now, offices, factories and some shops will be given two-and-a-half weeks to install new government social distancing measures, such as perspex screens and gaps between desks.
The new Track and Trace programme to hunt down and isolate new Covid-19 infection chains will also be up and running by then to give extra protection against the virus spreading again.
The force of 18,000 trackers, copied from South Korea, has been given a start date of May 18.
Downing Street is also nervous about acting before the second bank holiday this month, fearing millions would take it as a sign to head to parks and beaches over the early summer break.
If infections are not deemed to have fallen enough by experts on the government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, the plan will be delayed beyond May 26.
Not all sectors will be told they can return to work that soon.
The hospitality and entertainment industries are expected to remain closed for months longer in a huge blow to pubs and restaurants.
Other coronavirus restrictions are also likely to remain in place for some time, such as the ban on all social gatherings.
Schools are also not expected to be told to reopen until June, which will stop many parents from being able to return to work.
Ministers also now think they have a huge job to persuade millions of Brits to go back to work even when it is safe to do so.
Hosting No10’s daily press conference on Friday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock attempted to reassure one nervous father by saying: “We are not going to reopen schools if it isn’t entirely safe to do so”.
But he ducked saying whether parents would be let off fines if they refused to send their kids back to classrooms.
Alongside the PM’s plan, Business Secretary Alok Sharma will next week publish nine different papers containing guidelines for all workers outlining how to keep safe.
They will range from outdoor work such as construction sites, to the high street, manufacturing sites and home visitors, such as plumbers and electricians.
Unions say they have been asked to prepare members to ramp up rail services from mid-May onwards.
But the Department for Transport said no formal instruction has been given to rail companies.
Up to half of all trains were cancelled across the country when the lockdown was ordered on March 23.


birminghammail--2020-05-02--'Got to take it' - Kalvin Phillips given Liverpool transfer advice

Darren Bent has urged Kalvin Phillips to reject other transfer approaches and join Liverpool , if Jurgen Klopp makes an offer this summer .
The Leeds United midfielder has developed into one of the most highly-rated midfielders in the country under Marcelo Bielsa , with suggestions he could be in line for an England call-up .
His form has also meant a number of Premier League clubs linked , including Aston Villa .
Dean Smith was said to be extremely interested in Phillips last summer , although was ultimately deterred by his £30m price tag .
Along with Villa - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Klopp looking for midfield reinforcements , according to Bleacher Report .
And Bent , believes that if an approach from Anfield is made , Phillips must take it , to learn from established players like Fabinho .
“ Listen , if that move comes about and it ’ s there on the table , you ’ ve got to take it , ” Bent told Football Insider .
“ How much he ’ d play , I don ’ t know but people are talking about Fabinho and his fitness , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes and then he blows up a little bit .
“ It would be good for Kalvin Phillips .
He ’ d go there , learn his trade , watch Fabinho and these type of players to see how they do it .
Ability-wise , he 's as good as anyone in that role .
He added : “ He ’ s got energy , passing , technically , he ’ s a top , top player .
There was talk of him getting into the England squad before lockdown .
People rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s there for him , he ’ s got to take it .
“ It ’ s a bit of tough one , we ’ re saying he ’ s got to prove himself in the Premier League but if one of the top , if not the top Premier League side wants him , it ’ s a bit hard to say no !
”

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Darren Bent has urged Kalvin Phillips to reject other transfer approaches and join Liverpool, if Jurgen Klopp makes an offer this summer.
The Leeds United midfielder has developed into one of the most highly-rated midfielders in the country under Marcelo Bielsa, with suggestions he could be in line for an England call-up.
His form has also meant a number of Premier League clubs linked, including Aston Villa. Dean Smith was said to be extremely interested in Phillips last summer, although was ultimately deterred by his £30m price tag.
(Image: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
Along with Villa - Wolves and Liverpool have both been linked, with Klopp looking for midfield reinforcements, according to Bleacher Report.
And Bent, believes that if an approach from Anfield is made, Phillips must take it, to learn from established players like Fabinho.
“Listen, if that move comes about and it’s there on the table, you’ve got to take it,” Bent told Football Insider.
“How much he’d play, I don’t know but people are talking about Fabinho and his fitness, how he only plays 60 or 70 minutes and then he blows up a little bit.
“It would be good for Kalvin Phillips. He’d go there, learn his trade, watch Fabinho and these type of players to see how they do it. Ability-wise, he's as good as anyone in that role.
He added: “He’s got energy, passing, technically, he’s a top, top player. There was talk of him getting into the England squad before lockdown. People rate him very highly and if the opportunity’s there for him, he’s got to take it.
“It’s a bit of tough one, we’re saying he’s got to prove himself in the Premier League but if one of the top, if not the top Premier League side wants him, it’s a bit hard to say no!”


birminghammail--2020-05-02--Kalvin Phillips urged to snub Wolves transfer tol join Liverpool

Darren Bent has urged Kalvin Phillips to reject other transfer approaches and join Liverpool , if Jurgen Klopp makes an offer this summer .
The Leeds United midfielder has developed into one of the most highly-rated midfielders in the country under Marcelo Bielsa , with suggestions he could be in line for an England call-up .
His form has also meant a number of Premier League clubs linked , including Wolverhampton Wanderers .
Along with Wolves - Aston Villa , and most recently Liverpool , have been touted as possible destinations .
According to Bleacher Report , Liverpool boss Klopp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the next transfer window and Phillips is a contender .
And Bent , believes that if an approach from Anfield is made , Phillips must take it , to learn from established players like Fabinho .
“ Listen , if that move comes about and it ’ s there on the table , you ’ ve got to take it , ” Bent told Football Insider .
“ How much he ’ d play , I don ’ t know but people are talking about Fabinho and his fitness , how he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then he blows up a little bit .
“ It would be good for Kalvin Phillips .
He ’ d go there , learn his trade , watch Fabinho and these type of players to see how they do it .
Ability-wise , he 's as good as anyone in that role .
He added : “ He ’ s got energy , passing , technically , he ’ s a top , top player .
There was talk of him getting into the England squad before lockdown .
People rate him very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there for him , he ’ s got to take it .
“ It ’ s a bit of tough one , we ’ re saying he ’ s got to prove himself in the Premier League but if one of the top , if not the top Premier League side wants him , it ’ s a bit hard to say no !
”

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Darren Bent has urged Kalvin Phillips to reject other transfer approaches and join Liverpool, if Jurgen Klopp makes an offer this summer.
The Leeds United midfielder has developed into one of the most highly-rated midfielders in the country under Marcelo Bielsa, with suggestions he could be in line for an England call-up.
His form has also meant a number of Premier League clubs linked, including Wolverhampton Wanderers. Along with Wolves - Aston Villa, and most recently Liverpool, have been touted as possible destinations.
(Image: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
According to Bleacher Report, Liverpool boss Klopp is on the lookout for a midfielder in the next transfer window and Phillips is a contender.
And Bent, believes that if an approach from Anfield is made, Phillips must take it, to learn from established players like Fabinho.
“Listen, if that move comes about and it’s there on the table, you’ve got to take it,” Bent told Football Insider.
“How much he’d play, I don’t know but people are talking about Fabinho and his fitness, how he only plays 60 or 70 minutes and then he blows up a little bit.
“It would be good for Kalvin Phillips. He’d go there, learn his trade, watch Fabinho and these type of players to see how they do it. Ability-wise, he's as good as anyone in that role.
He added: “He’s got energy, passing, technically, he’s a top, top player. There was talk of him getting into the England squad before lockdown. People rate him very highly and if the opportunity’s there for him, he’s got to take it.
“It’s a bit of tough one, we’re saying he’s got to prove himself in the Premier League but if one of the top, if not the top Premier League side wants him, it’s a bit hard to say no!”