birminghammail--2020-11-06--We have been making sandwiches wrong - chefs share correct way

Sandwiches are a thing of beauty - and you can eat one for any meal .
Meal deals are a constant presence in the BirminghamLive newsroom , and if you 're an office worker , you likely have a penchant for them .
They are sold by Boots , Marks and Spencer and supermarkets like Sainsbury 's and Tesco , with sarnies a key component .
And away from the chain stores , sandwiches are a key part of some of our favourite days - from the turkey sandwich on Christmas Day evening , to a BLT or fish finger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But did you know you 've been cutting your sandwiches wrong for years ?
It 's true .
The only correct way to cut your sandwich is diagonally , according to experts .
Chef/owner Brian Poe of Bukowski Tavern in Cambridge , Massachusetts and the Tip Tap Room and Parish Café in Boston , Massachusetts told Insider : `` Cutting your sandwich is important because , should you choose to [ add ] pickles , potato chips or slaw , you have no extra control over the hand holding the sandwich .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cut ] , you also risk losing ingredients . ''
Hiroki Odo of HALL in New York City said : `` We like to cut our sandwiches diagonally .
Each bite is a little unique in its own way , so it feels like you 're getting something different [ each time ] .
`` You never get tired of it . ''
The reasons for this are many : namely giving the illusion of less crust - the least favourite part of the sarnie for many - and also it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of course , a lot of it depends on ingredients and the bread itself , with many suggesting the only way to eat certain sarnies - like grilled cheeses - is diagonally .
Johanna Hellrigl of Doi Moi in Washington , D.C said : `` It should be cut in half most of the time because it can break off when toasted and sliced in triangle form , and toasting is crucial for me when it comes to sandwiches . ''

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Sandwiches are a thing of beauty - and you can eat one for any meal.
Meal deals are a constant presence in the BirminghamLive newsroom, and if you're an office worker, you likely have a penchant for them.
They are sold by Boots, Marks and Spencer and supermarkets like Sainsbury's and Tesco, with sarnies a key component.
And away from the chain stores, sandwiches are a key part of some of our favourite days - from the turkey sandwich on Christmas Day evening, to a BLT or fish finger sarnie at a city independent bistro.
But did you know you've been cutting your sandwiches wrong for years? It's true.
The only correct way to cut your sandwich is diagonally, according to experts.
Chef/owner Brian Poe of Bukowski Tavern in Cambridge, Massachusetts and the Tip Tap Room and Parish Café in Boston, Massachusetts told Insider : "Cutting your sandwich is important because, should you choose to [add] pickles, potato chips or slaw, you have no extra control over the hand holding the sandwich.
"With a sandwich [that's not cut], you also risk losing ingredients."
Hiroki Odo of HALL in New York City said: "We like to cut our sandwiches diagonally. Each bite is a little unique in its own way, so it feels like you're getting something different [each time].
"You never get tired of it."
The reasons for this are many: namely giving the illusion of less crust - the least favourite part of the sarnie for many - and also it’s just easier to eat a crustless bite.
Of course, a lot of it depends on ingredients and the bread itself, with many suggesting the only way to eat certain sarnies - like grilled cheeses - is diagonally.
Johanna Hellrigl of Doi Moi in Washington, D.C said: "It should be cut in half most of the time because it can break off when toasted and sliced in triangle form, and toasting is crucial for me when it comes to sandwiches."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Crowbar-wielding robbers raid Costcutter store threatening staff

Masked robbers raided a Worcestershire convenience store and stole items after threatening staff with crowbars .
The raid took place at the Costcutter store in Stourbridge Road , Bromsgrove , shortly after 8pm on Monday ( November 2 ) .
Two men wearing balaclavas , each carrying a crowbar and dressed all in black , have threatened staff members before stealing cash from the till and cigarettes before making their escape .
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said : “ We are appealing for witnesses following a robbery at Costcutters in Bromsgrove .
“ At around 8.10pm on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that two men wearing balaclavas entered the store on Stourbridge Road , Bromsgrove and threatened staff .
“ The men , carrying crowbars took cash from the till and cigarettes before leaving the scene .
They are described as a white man around 6ft tall , a stocky build wearing all black clothing , a black beanie hat , black gloves and face covering .
“ The second man was white , around 5ft 10 ” tall with a stocky build .
He was wearing all black clothing including a black beanie hat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black rucksack .
“ If you have any information regarding the incident or saw any suspicious behaviour in the area please report via our website quoting reference 506_i_02112020.
” People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

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Masked robbers raided a Worcestershire convenience store and stole items after threatening staff with crowbars.
The raid took place at the Costcutter store in Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove, shortly after 8pm on Monday (November 2).
Two men wearing balaclavas, each carrying a crowbar and dressed all in black, have threatened staff members before stealing cash from the till and cigarettes before making their escape.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: “We are appealing for witnesses following a robbery at Costcutters in Bromsgrove.
“At around 8.10pm on Monday (November 2) it is believed that two men wearing balaclavas entered the store on Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove and threatened staff.
“The men, carrying crowbars took cash from the till and cigarettes before leaving the scene.
They are described as a white man around 6ft tall, a stocky build wearing all black clothing, a black beanie hat, black gloves and face covering.
“The second man was white, around 5ft 10” tall with a stocky build. He was wearing all black clothing including a black beanie hat, face covering and was carrying a black rucksack.
“If you have any information regarding the incident or saw any suspicious behaviour in the area please report via our website quoting reference 506_i_02112020.”
People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Find restaurants and bars near you delivering or takeaway

Restaurants , bars and pubs across Birmingham have been forced to close again as England was plunged into another lockdown .
Businesses ARE still allowed to offer takeaway services , however , meaning you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal delivered to your door while you stay at home .
And after a ban on the sale of takeaway alcohol was overturned , you can also treat yourself to a tipple to enjoy with it - as long as it 's ordered in advance .
Today we 're calling on BirminghamLive readers to support the brilliant Brum food and drink businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Local campaign .
Order a takeaway or drinks delivery from your favourite local restaurant , bar or producer and know you 're helping to support them through another tough lockdown .
If you do n't want to lose your local , please use it - if you 're in a position to .
You can help spread the word by sharing a picture of your takeaway on InYourArea and on social media with the hashtag # OrderLocal .
Do n't forget to tag the business to show your support - and you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham_Live on Twitter or @ Birmingham.Live on Instagram .
We 've teamed up with our sister site InYourArea and ReachPLC titles around the country to create a free search tool where you can find businesses offering takeaway and delivery services near you .
Enter your postcode below and see establishments near you : We 're also offering hospitality businesses FREE listings on the platform , enabling them to advertise their lockdown food and drink offerings to millions of readers up and down the country .
The campaign is being backed by industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( CAMRA ) and the British Takeaway Campaign .
Ibrahim Dogus , chair of the British Takeaway Campaign , said : `` Takeaways , restaurants , cafes and pubs up and down the country have a crucial role to play in keeping the nation fed as England enters its second lockdown .
`` In the spring , thousands of independent , local businesses rose to the challenge and began operating delivery for the very first time to keep serving delicious meals to their communities .
“ The Order Local campaign by InYourArea is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your favourite local restaurant is still open for business .
We encourage businesses to sign up and customers to keep supporting their local restaurants !
” CAMRA Chief executive Tom Stainer said : `` With the impact of a second lockdown soon to be felt across the sector , it is now more important than ever before to help support local pubs and businesses through this crisis .
`` CAMRA branches are working hard to list pubs , breweries and cider producers currently offering takeaway and delivery services , and our Brew2You app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beer industry since its launch .
`` It 's also heartening to see other food and drinks initiatives spring up - such as Order Local - which similarly allows local businesses to advertise their services for free .
`` We 'd encourage anyone looking for a great pint to tap into their local area before turning to supermarket pints over the next four weeks of lockdown and beyond . ''
Editor-in-chief of InYourArea.co.uk Ed Walker said : “ For many the light in a dark month might be not having to cook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that time with family to sit down in front of the TV with fish and chips or a curry .
“ And making that decision to spend locally can be a make or break difference for local independent businesses .
I hope through Order Local we can show , as communities , how much we value these restaurants , craft ale bars , farm shops and wherever else is helping us keep well stocked , fed and watered during the coming weeks and months ahead .
“ I will be placing an Order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” If your business is operating a delivery or collection service during lockdown , then you can fill in this form to be added to the search tool .
If you can not see the form below , click here .
Any restaurant , bar , pub , brewery , drinks producer , cafe , bakery , farm shop or other establishment offering delivery or collections during lockdown can get involved .
It 's free to list your business and it will then start to appear for some of the 500,000 people across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and millions more across our website and Reach PLC 's regional titles across the country .

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Restaurants, bars and pubs across Birmingham have been forced to close again as England was plunged into another lockdown.
Businesses ARE still allowed to offer takeaway services, however, meaning you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal delivered to your door while you stay at home.
And after a ban on the sale of takeaway alcohol was overturned, you can also treat yourself to a tipple to enjoy with it - as long as it's ordered in advance.
Today we're calling on BirminghamLive readers to support the brilliant Brum food and drink businesses near you as we launch our Order Local campaign.
Order a takeaway or drinks delivery from your favourite local restaurant, bar or producer and know you're helping to support them through another tough lockdown.
If you don't want to lose your local, please use it - if you're in a position to.
(Image: Reach Plc)
You can help spread the word by sharing a picture of your takeaway on InYourArea and on social media with the hashtag #OrderLocal.
Don't forget to tag the business to show your support - and you can share it with us too by tagging @Birmingham_Live on Twitter or@Birmingham.Live on Instagram.
We've teamed up with our sister site InYourArea and ReachPLC titles around the country to create a free search tool where you can find businesses offering takeaway and delivery services near you.
Enter your postcode below and see establishments near you:
We're also offering hospitality businesses FREE listings on the platform, enabling them to advertise their lockdown food and drink offerings to millions of readers up and down the country.
The campaign is being backed by industry organisations including the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the British Takeaway Campaign.
Ibrahim Dogus, chair of the British Takeaway Campaign, said: "Takeaways, restaurants, cafes and pubs up and down the country have a crucial role to play in keeping the nation fed as England enters its second lockdown.
"In the spring, thousands of independent, local businesses rose to the challenge and began operating delivery for the very first time to keep serving delicious meals to their communities.
(Image: Reach Plc)
“The Order Local campaign by InYourArea is a fantastic way to find out whether your favourite local restaurant is still open for business. We encourage businesses to sign up and customers to keep supporting their local restaurants!”
CAMRA Chief executive Tom Stainer said: "With the impact of a second lockdown soon to be felt across the sector, it is now more important than ever before to help support local pubs and businesses through this crisis.
"CAMRA branches are working hard to list pubs, breweries and cider producers currently offering takeaway and delivery services, and our Brew2You app has generated over £100,000 in sales for the beer industry since its launch.
"It's also heartening to see other food and drinks initiatives spring up - such as Order Local - which similarly allows local businesses to advertise their services for free.
(Image: Reach Plc)
"We'd encourage anyone looking for a great pint to tap into their local area before turning to supermarket pints over the next four weeks of lockdown and beyond."
Editor-in-chief of InYourArea.co.uk Ed Walker said: “For many the light in a dark month might be not having to cook for a night a week - having that time with family to sit down in front of the TV with fish and chips or a curry.
“And making that decision to spend locally can be a make or break difference for local independent businesses. I hope through Order Local we can show, as communities, how much we value these restaurants, craft ale bars, farm shops and wherever else is helping us keep well stocked, fed and watered during the coming weeks and months ahead.
“I will be placing an Order Local and I hope you will too.”
If your business is operating a delivery or collection service during lockdown, then you can fill in this form to be added to the search tool.
If you cannot see the form below, click here.
Any restaurant, bar, pub, brewery, drinks producer, cafe, bakery, farm shop or other establishment offering delivery or collections during lockdown can get involved.
It's free to list your business and it will then start to appear for some of the 500,000 people across the UK who use InYourArea each day, and millions more across our website and Reach PLC's regional titles across the country.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Universal Credit self-employed rules - how latest changes affect your benefits

Self-employed people whose income and savings have dropped due to the impact of Covid-19 restrictions are able to get help from the Government , including Universal Credit .
And there has just been an important update to the rules , with the Minimum Income Floor now kept in place until the end of April .
Universal Credit is a relatively new social security scheme that has been designed to replace six other benefits including Income Support , income-based Jobseeker 's Allowance and income-based Employment and Support Allowance .
Millions have turned to UC for help during the ongoing coronavirus crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-employed people but the rules have changed during the pandemic .
The Minimum Income Floor is an assumed level of income the DWP uses for self-employed people , in order to work out how much Universal Credit they 'll get .
The higher your earnings , the lower your Universal Credit .
Under the policy , the DWP will assume you earn at least the same as someone in paid employment with similar working hours on the minimum wage .
The problem has always been that the MIF is fixed for each individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and down .
Some months a person earns far less than the MIF but ends up receiving the same amount of UC .
The Institute of Fiscal Studies says as many as 450,000 low-income households see their payments cut by an average of £3,200 a year thanks to this policy .
How has it changed ?
Suspending the MIF means that self-employed people receive Universal Credit based on their actual earnings which , because of the impact of coronavirus and lockdown , may be far lower than usual .
That suspension had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis warning of the `` sinkhole '' waiting for many self-employed people .
But the suspension will now stay in place until the end of the financial year .
In a written statement , Therese Coffey , the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions , announced : `` After careful consideration of the ongoing public health situation and the national working environment , the current easement of the suspension of the Minimum Income Floor in Universal Credit that was due to expire on November 12 2020 will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Regulations will be laid and made prior to November 12 2020 . ''
For every £1 you earn your payment reduces by 63p .
You can earn a certain amount before your Universal Credit is reduced if you or your partner are responsible for a child or young person , or living with a disability or health condition that affects your ability to work .
This is called a work allowance .
Your work allowance is lower if you get help with housing costs .
The work allowance is £292 if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so you keep that amount before the 63p per £1 deduction starts to be applied .
The work allowance is £512 if you do n't get help with housing costs so you keep that amount of your Universal Credit before the 63p per £1 deduction kicks in .
If you ’ re both self-employed and employed , your Universal Credit payment will be calculated based on your combined earnings .
If you make a loss from self-employment , only your employment earnings will be used to calculate how much Universal Credit you get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change in circumstances , such as : • no longer being able to work What other help is available ?
If your business has been affected by Covid-19 , you may be able to get a grant through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme .
The scheme has been extended to offer two further grants , each available for three-month periods covering November 2020 to January 2021 and then February 2021 to April 2021 .
The Government will provide a taxable grant calculated at 80 per cent of three months ' average monthly trading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instalment and capped at £7,500 in total .
This is an increase from the previously announced amount of 55 per cent .
To be eligible for the grant extension self-employed individuals , including members of partnerships , must : • have been previously eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme first and second grant ( although they do not have to have claimed the previous grants ) • declare that they intend to continue to trade and are either currently actively trading but are impacted by reduced demand due to coronavirus ; or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do so due to coronavirus The Government says it is providing the same level of support for the self-employed as that provided for employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme which has also been extended until March 2021 .
The grants are taxable income and also subject to National Insurance contributions .
The online service for the next grant will be available from November 30 , 2020 .
The Government said : `` HMRC will provide full details about claiming and applications in guidance in due course . ''

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Self-employed people whose income and savings have dropped due to the impact of Covid-19 restrictions are able to get help from the Government, including Universal Credit.
And there has just been an important update to the rules, with the Minimum Income Floor now kept in place until the end of April.
Universal Credit is a relatively new social security scheme that has been designed to replace six other benefits including Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance and income-based Employment and Support Allowance.
Millions have turned to UC for help during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
It's always been available to self-employed people but the rules have changed during the pandemic.
(Image: Getty Images)
What's the Minimum Income Floor?
The Minimum Income Floor is an assumed level of income the DWP uses for self-employed people, in order to work out how much Universal Credit they'll get.
The higher your earnings, the lower your Universal Credit.
Under the policy, the DWP will assume you earn at least the same as someone in paid employment with similar working hours on the minimum wage.
The problem has always been that the MIF is fixed for each individual despite their self-employed income actually going up and down. Some months a person earns far less than the MIF but ends up receiving the same amount of UC.
The Institute of Fiscal Studies says as many as 450,000 low-income households see their payments cut by an average of £3,200 a year thanks to this policy.
How has it changed?
In March, Chancellor Rishi Sunak temporarily removed the MIF.
Suspending the MIF means that self-employed people receive Universal Credit based on their actual earnings which, because of the impact of coronavirus and lockdown, may be far lower than usual.
That suspension had been due to end on November 13, with MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis warning of the "sinkhole" waiting for many self-employed people.
But the suspension will now stay in place until the end of the financial year.
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In a written statement, Therese Coffey, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, announced: "After careful consideration of the ongoing public health situation and the national working environment, the current easement of the suspension of the Minimum Income Floor in Universal Credit that was due to expire on November 12 2020 will be extended to the end of April 2021.
"Regulations will be laid and made prior to November 12 2020."
Citizens Advice welcomed the news.
How do earnings affect Universal Credit?
For every £1 you earn your payment reduces by 63p.
You can earn a certain amount before your Universal Credit is reduced if you or your partner are responsible for a child or young person, or living with a disability or health condition that affects your ability to work.
This is called a work allowance. Your work allowance is lower if you get help with housing costs.
The work allowance is £292 if you get help with housing costs, so you keep that amount before the 63p per £1 deduction starts to be applied.
The work allowance is £512 if you don't get help with housing costs so you keep that amount of your Universal Credit before the 63p per £1 deduction kicks in.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
If you’re both self-employed and employed, your Universal Credit payment will be calculated based on your combined earnings.
If you make a loss from self-employment, only your employment earnings will be used to calculate how much Universal Credit you get.
You are required to report any change in circumstances, such as:
closing your business
starting a different kind of business
taking a permanent job
no longer being able to work
What other help is available?
If your business has been affected by Covid-19, you may be able to get a grant through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.
The scheme has been extended to offer two further grants, each available for three-month periods covering November 2020 to January 2021 and then February 2021 to April 2021.
The Government will provide a taxable grant calculated at 80 per cent of three months' average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment and capped at £7,500 in total. This is an increase from the previously announced amount of 55 per cent.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
To be eligible for the grant extension self-employed individuals, including members of partnerships, must:
have been previously eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme first and second grant (although they do not have to have claimed the previous grants)
declare that they intend to continue to trade and are either currently actively trading but are impacted by reduced demand due to coronavirus; or were previously trading but are temporarily unable to do so due to coronavirus
The Government says it is providing the same level of support for the self-employed as that provided for employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme which has also been extended until March 2021.
The grants are taxable income and also subject to National Insurance contributions.
The online service for the next grant will be available from November 30, 2020. The Government said: "HMRC will provide full details about claiming and applications in guidance in due course."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Dean Smith on Jack Grealish form, Arsenal & Aston Villa morale

Dean Smith is preparing his Aston Villa players for Sunday 's trip to the Emirates , just two months after beating Arsenal in a behind-closed-doors friendly .
The head coach admits Villa `` know a lot about '' Mikel Arteta 's men , a side who were in Europa League action last night with an Arsenal second-string beating Molde 4-1 .
Ahead of Sunday 's Premier League fixture , Smith held his press conference earlier today and discussed a range of topics from Jack Grealish 's fresh England call-up to the latest injury news .
`` He took over and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They have started with good performances , so he ’ s done a fantastic job .
`` It was a big win for us [ last season ] that helped us to retain our Premier League status , and we played them in pre-season , so we know a lot about them .
`` It will be a really tough game , they had a really good result against Manchester United last week and Molde last night . ''
`` I spoke a couple of years ago and I said that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on goals and assists , and he ’ s improving in those aspects .
`` He ’ s got four goals and four assists already , so he ’ s doing something right .
`` He ’ s working extremely hard , he stays humble and he needs to keep doing that .
`` Our trust goes out to the international managers to manage our players appropriately . ''
`` There was a good reaction in the game , they showed an awful lot of character and played some really good football in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t give teams four-goal leads .
`` It was never a 4-0 game , it wasn ’ t a bad performance , but we gave free-kicks away in silly areas .
We have analysed the game and it ’ s not a lack of defensive action that led to the goals .
`` We still feel that we ’ ve had a good start , the last two results have been disappointing .
The players are still confident , that ’ s for sure , they want to put it right .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good squad and players that can play the way that we want to play . ''
`` Bertrand [ Traore ] came off and he ’ ll be struggling for Sunday , he won ’ t make it .
He ’ ll definitely be back after the international break .
Tom [ Heaton ] is in full training ; he needs a few games .
He ’ s got a chance [ of playing for the U23s against Burnley , November 9 ] , we ’ re waiting to see if that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I expect him to play .
`` [ Wesley ] had a horrific injury and he ’ s battling hard to come back from that . ''

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Dean Smith is preparing his Aston Villa players for Sunday's trip to the Emirates, just two months after beating Arsenal in a behind-closed-doors friendly.
The head coach admits Villa "know a lot about" Mikel Arteta's men, a side who were in Europa League action last night with an Arsenal second-string beating Molde 4-1.
Ahead of Sunday's Premier League fixture, Smith held his press conference earlier today and discussed a range of topics from Jack Grealish's fresh England call-up to the latest injury news.
Here's every word from Smith's media briefing:
On Arteta's Arsenal
(Image: PA)
"He took over and they went and won the FA Cup. They have started with good performances, so he’s done a fantastic job.
"It was a big win for us [last season] that helped us to retain our Premier League status, and we played them in pre-season, so we know a lot about them.
"It will be a really tough game, they had a really good result against Manchester United last week and Molde last night."
On Grealish's latest England call-up
"I spoke a couple of years ago and I said that he [Jack Grealish] would be judged on goals and assists, and he’s improving in those aspects.
"He’s got four goals and four assists already, so he’s doing something right.
"He’s working extremely hard, he stays humble and he needs to keep doing that.
"Our trust goes out to the international managers to manage our players appropriately."
Bouncing back after Southampton setback
"There was a good reaction in the game, they showed an awful lot of character and played some really good football in the second half, but we can’t give teams four-goal leads.
"It was never a 4-0 game, it wasn’t a bad performance, but we gave free-kicks away in silly areas. We have analysed the game and it’s not a lack of defensive action that led to the goals.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"We still feel that we’ve had a good start, the last two results have been disappointing. The players are still confident, that’s for sure, they want to put it right.
"We believe that we have a really good squad and players that can play the way that we want to play."
Team news
"Bertrand [Traore] came off and he’ll be struggling for Sunday, he won’t make it. He’ll definitely be back after the international break.
Tom [Heaton] is in full training; he needs a few games. He’s got a chance [of playing for the U23s against Burnley, November 9], we’re waiting to see if that will go ahead and if it does, I expect him to play.
"[Wesley] had a horrific injury and he’s battling hard to come back from that."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Masked machete gang try to force way into property

A machete gang attempted to force their way into a Tamworth property while two people held the front door shut to prevent them entering .
The terrifying incident saw three masked offenders , armed with a machete , target a property in Balfour near to the town centre .
They then smashed the windscreen of a vehicle parked on the drive before fleeing towards Lichfield Street in a black SUV-type vehicle at around 2.30pm on Tuesday , November 3 .
Armed police officers attended and carried out extensive searches of the surrounding area but were unable to locate them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : “ Two people were inside the property at the time of the attack .
They were incredibly brave and held the front door shut to prevent the offenders gaining entry .
“ We would like to reassure local residents that incidents of this nature in the Tamworth area are rare and a thorough investigation is underway .
“ We are appealing for anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour in Balfour and the surrounding streets , or may have caught the men on CCTV or dash-cam to get in touch.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is asked to contact 101 , quoting incident number 410 of November 3 , or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Earlier on Friday we reported how armed police were dispatched to a different part of Tamworth after responding to reports of a group of men armed with machetes .
Police say they are not linked .
Officers from Staffordshire Police swooped on Silver Link Road on Thursday , November 5 .
They brought the incident to a `` safe conclusion , '' police said .
Tamworth Police posted : `` Armed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of males armed with machetes near to Silver Link Road this evening .
`` The incident has been bought to a safe conclusion and our investigation is now underway .
# LocalOfficers will be offering reassurance over the next few days . ''

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A machete gang attempted to force their way into a Tamworth property while two people held the front door shut to prevent them entering.
The terrifying incident saw three masked offenders, armed with a machete, target a property in Balfour near to the town centre.
They then smashed the windscreen of a vehicle parked on the drive before fleeing towards Lichfield Street in a black SUV-type vehicle at around 2.30pm on Tuesday, November 3.
Armed police officers attended and carried out extensive searches of the surrounding area but were unable to locate them.
Detective Constable Howard Davies, from CID, said: “Two people were inside the property at the time of the attack. They were incredibly brave and held the front door shut to prevent the offenders gaining entry.
“We would like to reassure local residents that incidents of this nature in the Tamworth area are rare and a thorough investigation is underway.
“We are appealing for anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour in Balfour and the surrounding streets, or may have caught the men on CCTV or dash-cam to get in touch.”
Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to contact 101, quoting incident number 410 of November 3, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Earlier on Friday we reported how armed police were dispatched to a different part of Tamworth after responding to reports of a group of men armed with machetes. Police say they are not linked.
Officers from Staffordshire Police swooped on Silver Link Road on Thursday, November 5.
They brought the incident to a "safe conclusion," police said.
Tamworth Police posted: "Armed Police have attended reports of a group of males armed with machetes near to Silver Link Road this evening.
"The incident has been bought to a safe conclusion and our investigation is now underway. #LocalOfficers will be offering reassurance over the next few days."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Serge Gnabry finally responds to Tony Pulis' West Brom comments

Serge Gnabry has finally responded to Tony Pulis ' claim that he was 'not at the level ' required to play games for West Bromwich Albion .
The German joined the Baggies on loan from Arsenal in 2015 but only played three times in what was a very unproductive spell .
He played just once in the Premier League - a 12-minute cameo in a 3-2 defeat to Chelsea .
His other two outings came in the Carabao Cup against Port Vale and Norwich City , with Albion failing to score in both games .
But Gnabry 's career has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left The Hawthorns .
He won the Champions League for the first time in his career with Bayern Munich last season , scoring nine goals in the competition during 2019/20 .
Gnabry , now 25 , has netted 14 goals in 15 matches for Germany and is now widely considered to be one of the most talented wide forwards in the world .
Now , speaking to CBS Sports , Gnabry has given his take on Pulis ' infamous comments .
`` You always hear a little bit about it or people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
`` It looks like it wo n't stop , all I can say is I 'm proud of the journey I 've taken .
`` To be a Champions League winner now when a couple of years back I was doubted is obviously a great thing for me .
`` Of course after having struggled a lot it was difficult to pick myself up .
The biggest thing is that self-confidence , that I knew what I was capable of .
I never lost that .
Obviously , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never lost it .
`` The second biggest point in that way is I was playing a lot , not having so many injuries , so many little things that kept me out of games .
To just be consistent and being able to play every time , showing my performance helped me for the future .
If I can play I can show what I can do . ''

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Serge Gnabry has finally responded to Tony Pulis' claim that he was 'not at the level' required to play games for West Bromwich Albion.
The German joined the Baggies on loan from Arsenal in 2015 but only played three times in what was a very unproductive spell. He played just once in the Premier League - a 12-minute cameo in a 3-2 defeat to Chelsea.
His other two outings came in the Carabao Cup against Port Vale and Norwich City, with Albion failing to score in both games.
But Gnabry's career has well and truly taken off since he left The Hawthorns. He won the Champions League for the first time in his career with Bayern Munich last season, scoring nine goals in the competition during 2019/20.
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Gnabry, now 25, has netted 14 goals in 15 matches for Germany and is now widely considered to be one of the most talented wide forwards in the world.
Now, speaking to CBS Sports, Gnabry has given his take on Pulis' infamous comments.
"You always hear a little bit about it or people in the U.K. ask me about it," he said. "It looks like it won't stop, all I can say is I'm proud of the journey I've taken.
"To be a Champions League winner now when a couple of years back I was doubted is obviously a great thing for me.
"Of course after having struggled a lot it was difficult to pick myself up. The biggest thing is that self-confidence, that I knew what I was capable of. I never lost that. Obviously, you doubt it at some points but I never lost it.
"The second biggest point in that way is I was playing a lot, not having so many injuries, so many little things that kept me out of games. To just be consistent and being able to play every time, showing my performance helped me for the future. If I can play I can show what I can do."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Leaders from 43 city mosques question communal worship ban

More than 40 Birmingham mosques have questioned the Government 's decision to stop communal worship during the second national lockdown .
Kamran Hussain , from the Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre , in Small Heath , said stopping group prayers will bring `` hardship , distress and suffering to many '' during restrictions between November 5 to December 2 .
He also claimed no scientific evidence had been revealed to show that places of worship are contributing to the spread of coronavirus .
Mosque leaders also want to see data that `` drives the decision to cease public worship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funeral ceremonies with congregations of up to 30 people are permitted .
Birmingham mosques , `` with a heavy heart '' , are having to close their doors for communal prayers , while individual prayers are still allowed under the guidelines .
`` The mosques , like other places of worship , play a vital role in sustaining personal , spiritual and mental health of people in all sections of the community , especially for the most vulnerable , '' said a joint statement , released by Green Lane chief executive Mr Hussain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the prohibition of communal worship will only add to the anguish and stress in the community . ''
He said that since the reopening of mosques in July a huge undertaking has been carried out to make them Covid-secrure .
Congregations have complied with strict procedures , including performance of ablution at home , while all have maintained the a one-metre plus distance during communal prayers .
Releasing a statement in full on behalf of 43 city mosques , it said : `` From Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , replacing all local restrictions .
These new measures will affect the places of worship , including mosques .
`` The most fundamental service provided by mosques is the performance of the communal prayers ( Jumu ’ ah prayer on Fridays and the 5 daily prayers ) , which are being prohibited , except funeral communal prayers , and other essential voluntary and public services , such as blood donation or food banks .
`` The mosques in and around Birmingham have been in close communication with local Public Health officials since the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and assisted with educating their congregations and the wider communities on ways to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 .
`` Since 4 July , when the mosques were allowed to open for communal prayers , the congregations respectfully complied with strict procedures , including performance of ablution at home , maintained the minimum 1-metre plus distance during communal prayers ( a practice otherwise unacceptable by many during communal worship ) , volunteered time and resources to keep mosques COVID safe etc .
`` Members of many mosques also attended regular weekly meetings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to date with developments and learn how they could make Birmingham more COVID secure and reduce the spread of the disease .
These new restrictions , we know , will bring hardship , distress and suffering to many .
`` The mosques , like other places of worship , play a vital role in sustaining personal , spiritual and mental health of people in all sections of the community , especially for the most vulnerable .
The closure of the mosques with the prohibition of communal worship will only add to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` No evidence has been presented suggesting that places of worship are contributing to the spread of the disease .
In fact , senior public health officials visiting various mosques in Birmingham have praised the efforts of the volunteers and mosque staff in performing extensive risk assessments and employing strategies to mitigate the risks , most effectively .
`` For the mosques , the risk assessments to make the sites COVID safe are the same when individuals pray in isolation and for communal worship .
The nature of communal worship in mosques is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of worship .
`` The followers in a communal prayer silently follow the prayer leader ( Imam ) in the various prayer postures .
For an onlooker unaware of the procedure of praying will see limited difference to a group of individuals standing 1-metre plus apart praying independently and those in a communal prayer .
`` However , it appears the communal worship in mosques is believed to be similar to that found in churches and other places of worship , which is far from the truth .
`` We are keen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cease public worship under these restrictions , particularly , when communal worship of any size is prohibited and funeral ceremonies with congregations up to 30 people are permitted , at the same place of worship .
In view of this Government decision , Birmingham mosques , with a heavy heart , are closing their doors for communal prayers .
`` Some mosques , based on individual risk assessments and their available resources and capacities , will proceed with other permitted uses during this period , including , allowing individual prayers .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the primary service provided by mosques , can not , in any way be substituted with any other service . ''
The Birmingham mosques who are against banning communal worship are : Masjid Al Falah , Aston Masjid ‘ Eesa Ibn Maryam , Hall Green Birmingham Central Mosque , Highgate Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre , Small Heath Paigham-E-Islam Trust Mosque , Sparkhill Masjid Hamza , Moseley Amanah Masjid , Sparkbrook Bahu Trust Jami Mosque and Islamic Centre , Small Heath Jamea ABM , Sparkhill Masjid Abu Bakr , Billseley Fiqh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Masjid & Islamic Centre Al Habib Trust , Aston Muslim Student House Mosque & Centre , Balsall Heath MAB , Birmingham Central Jamia Mosque Ghamkol Sharif , Small Heath Witton Islamic Centre , Aston The Abrahamic Foundation , Smethwick Great Barr Muslim Foundation , Great Barr The Wisdom Islamic Centre , Nechells Quba Islamic Centre , Birmingham Birmingham Masjid and Dawah Centre , Lozells Huda Masjid & Community Centre , Newtown As-Suffa Institute , Aston MahmudSabir ( AlFurqan ) Masjid , Tyseley , Al Hijrah Masjid , Small Heath Solihull Islamic and Community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Masjid Taqwa , Sparkbrook Lozells Islamic Centre , Manaret Foundation , Sheldon Masjid Ali , Ahli Sunnat wal Jamat , Washwood Heath Arrahma Islamic Centre , Small Heath Sparkbrook Masjid & Islamic Centre , Sparkbrook Minhajul Quran Birmingham , Alum Rock Makki Masjid & Madrassa , Handsworth Zia-ul-Ummah Centre , Bordesley Green Acocks Green Masjid , Acocks Green Masjid Umar , Sparkbrook Zia ul Quran Jamia Masjid Jamia Masjid Faizul Quran Ghousia , Stechford Hall Green Masjid & Muslim Association Attarbiyya Masjid & and Kowneyn Community Centre .

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More than 40 Birmingham mosques have questioned the Government's decision to stop communal worship during the second national lockdown.
Kamran Hussain, from the Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre, in Small Heath, said stopping group prayers will bring "hardship, distress and suffering to many" during restrictions between November 5 to December 2.
He also claimed no scientific evidence had been revealed to show that places of worship are contributing to the spread of coronavirus.
Mosque leaders also want to see data that "drives the decision to cease public worship" under these latest restrictions, while funeral ceremonies with congregations of up to 30 people are permitted.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Birmingham mosques, "with a heavy heart", are having to close their doors for communal prayers, while individual prayers are still allowed under the guidelines.
"The mosques, like other places of worship, play a vital role in sustaining personal, spiritual and mental health of people in all sections of the community, especially for the most vulnerable," said a joint statement, released by Green Lane chief executive Mr Hussain.
"The closure of the mosques with the prohibition of communal worship will only add to the anguish and stress in the community."
He said that since the reopening of mosques in July a huge undertaking has been carried out to make them Covid-secrure.
Congregations have complied with strict procedures, including performance of ablution at home, while all have maintained the a one-metre plus distance during communal prayers.
Releasing a statement in full on behalf of 43 city mosques, it said: "From Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December, the Government has introduced new national restrictions, replacing all local restrictions. These new measures will affect the places of worship, including mosques.
"The most fundamental service provided by mosques is the performance of the communal prayers (Jumu’ah prayer on Fridays and the 5 daily prayers), which are being prohibited, except funeral communal prayers, and other essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks.
"The mosques in and around Birmingham have been in close communication with local Public Health officials since the beginning of the first lockdown in March and assisted with educating their congregations and the wider communities on ways to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
"Since 4 July, when the mosques were allowed to open for communal prayers, the congregations respectfully complied with strict procedures, including performance of ablution at home, maintained the minimum 1-metre plus distance during communal prayers (a practice otherwise unacceptable by many during communal worship), volunteered time and resources to keep mosques COVID safe etc.
"Members of many mosques also attended regular weekly meetings with local Public Health officials to keep up to date with developments and learn how they could make Birmingham more COVID secure and reduce the spread of the disease. These new restrictions, we know, will bring hardship, distress and suffering to many.
"The mosques, like other places of worship, play a vital role in sustaining personal, spiritual and mental health of people in all sections of the community, especially for the most vulnerable. The closure of the mosques with the prohibition of communal worship will only add to the anguish and stress in the community.
"No evidence has been presented suggesting that places of worship are contributing to the spread of the disease. In fact, senior public health officials visiting various mosques in Birmingham have praised the efforts of the volunteers and mosque staff in performing extensive risk assessments and employing strategies to mitigate the risks, most effectively.
"For the mosques, the risk assessments to make the sites COVID safe are the same when individuals pray in isolation and for communal worship. The nature of communal worship in mosques is significantly different to that in other places of worship.
"The followers in a communal prayer silently follow the prayer leader (Imam) in the various prayer postures. For an onlooker unaware of the procedure of praying will see limited difference to a group of individuals standing 1-metre plus apart praying independently and those in a communal prayer.
"However, it appears the communal worship in mosques is believed to be similar to that found in churches and other places of worship, which is far from the truth.
"We are keen to see the data that drives the decision to cease public worship under these restrictions, particularly, when communal worship of any size is prohibited and funeral ceremonies with congregations up to 30 people are permitted, at the same place of worship. In view of this Government decision, Birmingham mosques, with a heavy heart, are closing their doors for communal prayers.
"Some mosques, based on individual risk assessments and their available resources and capacities, will proceed with other permitted uses during this period, including, allowing individual prayers.
"However, the absence of communal prayers, the primary service provided by mosques, cannot, in any way be substituted with any other service."
The Birmingham mosques who are against banning communal worship are:
Masjid Al Falah, Aston Masjid ‘Eesa Ibn Maryam, Hall Green Birmingham Central Mosque, Highgate Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre, Small Heath Paigham-E-Islam Trust Mosque, Sparkhill Masjid Hamza, Moseley Amanah Masjid, Sparkbrook Bahu Trust Jami Mosque and Islamic Centre, Small Heath Jamea ABM, Sparkhill Masjid Abu Bakr, Billseley Fiqh Council Birmingham (FCB) Handsworth Jam-E Masjid &Islamic Centre Al Habib Trust, Aston Muslim Student House Mosque & Centre, Balsall Heath MAB, Birmingham Central Jamia Mosque Ghamkol Sharif, Small Heath Witton Islamic Centre, Aston The Abrahamic Foundation, Smethwick Great Barr Muslim Foundation, Great Barr The Wisdom Islamic Centre, Nechells Quba Islamic Centre, Birmingham Birmingham Masjid and Dawah Centre, Lozells Huda Masjid & Community Centre, Newtown As-Suffa Institute, Aston MahmudSabir (AlFurqan) Masjid, Tyseley, Al Hijrah Masjid, Small Heath Solihull Islamic and Community Centre, Solihull Darul Ilm, Birmingham Masjid Taqwa, Sparkbrook Lozells Islamic Centre, Manaret Foundation, Sheldon Masjid Ali, Ahli Sunnat wal Jamat, Washwood Heath Arrahma Islamic Centre, Small Heath Sparkbrook Masjid & Islamic Centre, Sparkbrook Minhajul Quran Birmingham, Alum Rock Makki Masjid & Madrassa, Handsworth Zia-ul-Ummah Centre, Bordesley Green Acocks Green Masjid, Acocks Green Masjid Umar, Sparkbrook Zia ul Quran Jamia Masjid Jamia Masjid Faizul Quran Ghousia, Stechford Hall Green Masjid & Muslim Association Attarbiyya Masjid & and Kowneyn Community Centre.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--B&M fans trying to find 'perfect' Christmas product - and it's only £3

B & M fans have been attempting to find a new product in their local stores that people are saying is `` perfect '' for Christmas .
The retailer is gearing itself up for the festive season and people are already trying to grab Christmas presents as other stores have been forced to close .
However , B & M confirmed that it would stay open during the second lockdown which is good news for those looking for some great deals .
And a new exclusive product is currently on sale at its stores - and people are heading out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & M is now selling mini Nutella pots that are being bought as a stocking filler - and customers are snapping them up as they are only £2.79 .
The retailer posted it on its social media page and it proved very popular with thousands of likes and comments .
One person said : `` These are a great size for my grandson .
The big jar is too tempting for him not to try some sneaky binge '' and another person wrote : `` Perfect for those little getaways that we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ third person said : `` Cute little gifts idea '' and a fourth person said : `` Need to buy this for little boy 's Christmas stocking '' .
B & M confirmed yesterday to BirminghamLive that there were no restrictions to what you can buy during lockdown .
A spokesperson said : `` We ’ re an essential retailer so we ’ ll be open as we were in the first lock down - we ’ ve got protective measures in place already so these will remain and there are currently no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A store in Wales previous pleaded with people not to buy non-essential items while the lockdown remains in place .
However , the store did confirm that it would not be able to stop people from buying them .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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B&M fans have been attempting to find a new product in their local stores that people are saying is "perfect" for Christmas.
The retailer is gearing itself up for the festive season and people are already trying to grab Christmas presents as other stores have been forced to close.
However, B&M confirmed that it would stay open during the second lockdown which is good news for those looking for some great deals.
And a new exclusive product is currently on sale at its stores - and people are heading out to try and find it.
B&M is now selling mini Nutella pots that are being bought as a stocking filler - and customers are snapping them up as they are only £2.79.
The retailer posted it on its social media page and it proved very popular with thousands of likes and comments.
One person said: "These are a great size for my grandson. The big jar is too tempting for him not to try some sneaky binge" and another person wrote: "Perfect for those little getaways that we’re not going on".
A third person said: "Cute little gifts idea" and a fourth person said: "Need to buy this for little boy's Christmas stocking".
B&M confirmed yesterday to BirminghamLive that there were no restrictions to what you can buy during lockdown.
A spokesperson said: "We’re an essential retailer so we’ll be open as we were in the first lock down - we’ve got protective measures in place already so these will remain and there are currently no restrictions on items in store".
A store in Wales previous pleaded with people not to buy non-essential items while the lockdown remains in place. However, the store did confirm that it would not be able to stop people from buying them.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Cadbury Christmas selection box announcement leaves fans crushed

Cadbury has slashed the size of its selection box bars by 12 per cent to try to combat childhood obesity .
The Birmingham based chocolate giant , which was founded in Bournville , is owned by US retail giant Mondelez .
Mondelez International has confirmed the size of Fudge bars in selection boxes had been reduced amid health concerns .
But the news has left some crushed , with many fuming over the 100 calorie threshold implemented by the confectionery maker .
This year ’ s Fudge bars will be 22g instead of 25g , Cadbury confirmed .
A spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to continue to help support parents giving their children a treat they will enjoy but keeping it under 100 calories.
” It comes months after Cadbury was accused of `` shrinkflation '' .
Chocolate bars sold in multipacks will shrink by the end of 2021 to reduce their calorie count , owner Mondelez announced in June .
Crunchie , Twirl and Wispa bars will contain no more than 200 calories each when sold in a four-pack .
`` We must play our part in tackling obesity and are committed to doing so without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Louise Stigant , UK managing director at Mondelez International .
One critic wrote : `` The list price for these products will not be changing at this time ” ... Cadbury trying to say that the change is for health reasons when it seems painfully obvious it ’ s for profit margins . ''
`` Cadbury 's strategy of shrinking the size of some of its most popular chocolate bars whilst charging the same price does n't sound like a crusade against obesity to me , '' a second chipped in .

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Cadbury has slashed the size of its selection box bars by 12 per cent to try to combat childhood obesity.
The Birmingham based chocolate giant, which was founded in Bournville, is owned by US retail giant Mondelez.
Mondelez International has confirmed the size of Fudge bars in selection boxes had been reduced amid health concerns.
But the news has left some crushed, with many fuming over the 100 calorie threshold implemented by the confectionery maker.
This year’s Fudge bars will be 22g instead of 25g, Cadbury confirmed.
A spokesman told The Sun: “We want to continue to help support parents giving their children a treat they will enjoy but keeping it under 100 calories.”
(Image: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire)
It comes months after Cadbury was accused of "shrinkflation".
Chocolate bars sold in multipacks will shrink by the end of 2021 to reduce their calorie count, owner Mondelez announced in June.
Crunchie, Twirl and Wispa bars will contain no more than 200 calories each when sold in a four-pack.
"We must play our part in tackling obesity and are committed to doing so without compromising on consumer choice," said Louise Stigant, UK managing director at Mondelez International.
One critic wrote: "The list price for these products will not be changing at this time”... Cadbury trying to say that the change is for health reasons when it seems painfully obvious it’s for profit margins."
"Cadbury's strategy of shrinking the size of some of its most popular chocolate bars whilst charging the same price doesn't sound like a crusade against obesity to me," a second chipped in.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Anger as BBC makes change to National Lottery results

The BBC has triggered fury after quietly dropping its National Lottery results service overnight .
Furious pensioners and pressure groups for the deaf , blind and disabled have slammed the decision .
The National Lottery is played by millions each week , with Lotto draws on Wednesday evenings and Saturday nights respectively .
Euromillions is also immensely popular , with draws on Friday nights , as well as Tuesday evenings .
The BBC has published the winning numbers of both the Lotto and and Euromillions draws on the `` 555 '' page of its 'Red Button ' text service for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been axed .
The controversy has emerged the same week thousands of people won boosted cash prizes after no-one scooped the `` must be won '' £12.8 million National Lottery jackpot on Wednesday .
The Lotto winning numbers were 10 , 20 , 28 , 32 , 35 , 50 and the bonus ball was 24 .
But with no-one matching all six main numbers , thousands of players will collect even bigger prizes .
One player who matched five main numbers and the bonus ball is £1.3 million richer , having seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million .
A total of 50 people each won £17,326 for matching five of the main balls , while 3,799 scooped £720 for four balls .
And 95,527 people won £130 each for matching three balls instead of the usual £30 .
The winning Thunderball numbers were 04 , 19 , 22 , 26 , 37 and the Thunderball was 06 .
No-one won the £500,000 top prize , while one player matched five to win £5,000 .

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The BBC has triggered fury after quietly dropping its National Lottery results service overnight.
Furious pensioners and pressure groups for the deaf, blind and disabled have slammed the decision.
The National Lottery is played by millions each week, with Lotto draws on Wednesday evenings and Saturday nights respectively.
Euromillions is also immensely popular, with draws on Friday nights, as well as Tuesday evenings.
The BBC has published the winning numbers of both the Lotto and and Euromillions draws on the "555" page of its 'Red Button' text service for decades.
But now the service has been axed.
The controversy has emerged the same week thousands of people won boosted cash prizes after no-one scooped the "must be won" £12.8 million National Lottery jackpot on Wednesday.
The Lotto winning numbers were 10, 20, 28, 32, 35, 50 and the bonus ball was 24.
But with no-one matching all six main numbers, thousands of players will collect even bigger prizes.
One player who matched five main numbers and the bonus ball is £1.3 million richer, having seen their prize boosted from the usual £1 million.
A total of 50 people each won £17,326 for matching five of the main balls, while 3,799 scooped £720 for four balls.
And 95,527 people won £130 each for matching three balls instead of the usual £30.
The winning Thunderball numbers were 04, 19, 22, 26, 37 and the Thunderball was 06.
No-one won the £500,000 top prize, while one player matched five to win £5,000.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Costa makes important announcement over entering its stores in new lockdown

Costa Coffee is maintaining operations throughout the second nationwide lockdown as coronavirus cases rise and deaths continue to soar .
The hot beverage giant is allowed to keep operating through the pandemic with takeaway services still available .
Costa is keeping its Bullring branches open for takeout and delivery needs as a new national lockdown comes into effect .
But as part of its opening , new rules have been issued - including the closure of outdoor areas and eat-in seats .
The number of customers entering a store at one time will be restricted depending on the store size @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Costa Coffee , said : `` Following the Prime Minister ’ s announcement on Saturday ... our stores in England will stay open for takeaway , Drive-Thru , Mobile Ordering service from our Costa Coffee app and delivery , via Uber Eats . ''
She added in a new statement : `` In line with Government guidelines , we will be closing our eat-in and outdoor seating areas .
`` The safety of our store team members and customers remains our number one priority and so we will be adapting how we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screens are being erected by Costa , with clear signage and social distancing measures taken by the chain to keep staff and customers safe .
Enhanced cleaning operations are underway and contactless card payments are advised .
Costa is one of the biggest coffee chains in the country , alongside Starbucks and Caffe Nero .
It operates stores across the city centre and plenty more further afield , with drive-thru services across the West Midlands too .

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Costa Coffee is maintaining operations throughout the second nationwide lockdown as coronavirus cases rise and deaths continue to soar.
The hot beverage giant is allowed to keep operating through the pandemic with takeaway services still available.
Costa is keeping its Bullring branches open for takeout and delivery needs as a new national lockdown comes into effect.
But as part of its opening, new rules have been issued - including the closure of outdoor areas and eat-in seats.
The number of customers entering a store at one time will be restricted depending on the store size, too.
Jill McDonald, CEO, Costa Coffee, said: "Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Saturday... our stores in England will stay open for takeaway, Drive-Thru, Mobile Ordering service from our Costa Coffee app and delivery, via Uber Eats."
She added in a new statement: "In line with Government guidelines, we will be closing our eat-in and outdoor seating areas.
"The safety of our store team members and customers remains our number one priority and so we will be adapting how we operate within our stores."
Perspex screens are being erected by Costa, with clear signage and social distancing measures taken by the chain to keep staff and customers safe.
Enhanced cleaning operations are underway and contactless card payments are advised.
Costa is one of the biggest coffee chains in the country, alongside Starbucks and Caffe Nero.
It operates stores across the city centre and plenty more further afield, with drive-thru services across the West Midlands too.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--How to buy Primark clothes online while stores are closed during lockdown

Primark is one of the most popular retailers in the UK with a great supply of fashion for low prices .
However , the fashion outlet has been forced to close its doors once more during the second lockdown to the dismay of many fashionistas .
Owner Associated British Foods says it is expecting to take a £375m sales hit due to the new measures but has been urging people to buy gift cards online .
“ Uncertainty about further temporary store closures in the short term remains , ” it added , in a statement to the London Stock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is implementing operational plans which have been developed to “ manage the consequences of closures ” and is taking action to reduce its operating costs . ''
However , if you just ca n't wait to get your Primark fix then read on because there are plenty of ways you can grab the clothes you need .
There are a couple of ways you can find Primark fashion items and this is how you can grab them : Amazon regularly sells Primark pieces online from other sellers across the country .
All you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can find a whole host of items from clothes to items .
However , be careful because these do not come from Primark directly and normally they are third-party sellers .
You can even get Prime delivery if you need a certain item that badly !
Like many other items , eBay is a popular marketplace for people either selling new or used items .
If there is a certain fashion item that you have been eyeing up then chances are eBay has it for sale .
And if it is up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it cheaper .

Primark is one of the most popular retailers in the UK with a great supply of fashion for low prices.
However, the fashion outlet has been forced to close its doors once more during the second lockdown to the dismay of many fashionistas.
Owner Associated British Foods says it is expecting to take a £375m sales hit due to the new measures but has been urging people to buy gift cards online.
“Uncertainty about further temporary store closures in the short term remains,” it added, in a statement to the London Stock Exchange.
The retail giant said it is implementing operational plans which have been developed to “manage the consequences of closures” and is taking action to reduce its operating costs."
However, if you just can't wait to get your Primark fix then read on because there are plenty of ways you can grab the clothes you need.
There are a couple of ways you can find Primark fashion items and this is how you can grab them:
Primark sales on Amazon
Amazon regularly sells Primark pieces online from other sellers across the country.
All you have to do is search Primark and you can find a whole host of items from clothes to items. However, be careful because these do not come from Primark directly and normally they are third-party sellers.
You can even get Prime delivery if you need a certain item that badly!
Primark sales on eBay
Like many other items, eBay is a popular marketplace for people either selling new or used items.
If there is a certain fashion item that you have been eyeing up then chances are eBay has it for sale. And if it is up for sale second-hand, you might get it cheaper.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Bournemouth boss Jason Tindall pays compliment to Birmingham City

Jason Tindall believes Birmingham City are a ‘ very good Championship side ’ - despite the fact his Bournemouth team is four points and nine places better off .
The fifth-placed Cherries head to St Andrew ’ s on Saturday with both them and their hosts looking to bounce back from midweek defeats .
While Bournemouth lost for the first time this season at Sheffield Wednesday , Blues were surprised by Wycombe ’ s second half comeback .
Tindall , who has been at Bournemouth for most of his playing and coaching career , is expecting a difficult game against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Karanka .
“ Karanka ’ s teams are always very hard to play against , he sets them up very well and it ’ s going to be a tough game , ” Tindall said .
“ We ’ ve come up against his sides a number of times and they ’ ve always been very tough games for us and I ’ m expecting no different tomorrow , Birmingham are a very good Championship side .
“ They ’ ll be looking to respond and bounce back from their disappointing result in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Preparations have been good , we ’ ve had two decent days in terms of getting ourselves ready for the weekend .
“ The games do come around quickly but it ’ s something we ’ re used to now .
We had a good day ’ s training yesterday , we ’ ll have another good day today and we will be ready for tomorrow.
” The Cherries will be without captain Steve Cook who is suspended after his sending off at Hillsborough .

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Jason Tindall believes Birmingham City are a ‘very good Championship side’ - despite the fact his Bournemouth team is four points and nine places better off.
The fifth-placed Cherries head to St Andrew’s on Saturday with both them and their hosts looking to bounce back from midweek defeats.
While Bournemouth lost for the first time this season at Sheffield Wednesday, Blues were surprised by Wycombe’s second half comeback.
Tindall, who has been at Bournemouth for most of his playing and coaching career, is expecting a difficult game against an uber-organised side put together by Aitor Karanka.
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“Karanka’s teams are always very hard to play against, he sets them up very well and it’s going to be a tough game,” Tindall said.
“We’ve come up against his sides a number of times and they’ve always been very tough games for us and I’m expecting no different tomorrow, Birmingham are a very good Championship side.
“They’ll be looking to respond and bounce back from their disappointing result in midweek, just like we will be.
“Preparations have been good, we’ve had two decent days in terms of getting ourselves ready for the weekend.
“The games do come around quickly but it’s something we’re used to now. We had a good day’s training yesterday, we’ll have another good day today and we will be ready for tomorrow.”
The Cherries will be without captain Steve Cook who is suspended after his sending off at Hillsborough.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Cops seize 'Californian cannabis' in Mercedes in city centre

Officers from West Midlands Police said four male occupants of the car were acting `` suspiciously , '' so they @ @ @ @ @ the early hours of this morning , November 6 .
The men and car were @ @ @ @ @ five clumps of Californian cannabis was discovered .
Police also cited vital intelligence in the @ @ @ @ @ Taking to Twitter , the account for Brum City Centre Police posted : `` Officers @ @ @ @ @ stopped a Mercedes AMG in the early hours with 4 males on board acting suspiciously @ @ @ @ @ were searched and a unusual package was found .
`` Seems our drug dealers have @ @ @ @ @ vitalintel @ WMPolice . ''

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Police in Birmingham city centre stopped a Mercedes AMG and found suspected Californian cannabis.
Officers from West Midlands Police said four male occupants of the car were acting "suspiciously," so they pulled the vehicle over in the early hours of this morning, November 6.
The men and car were searched and a package resembling five clumps of Californian cannabis was discovered.
Police also cited vital intelligence in the clampdown against drug dealing.
Taking to Twitter, the account for Brum City Centre Police posted: "Officers from City Centre Team 3 stopped a Mercedes AMG in the early hours with 4 males on board acting suspiciously. Both vehicle and occupants were searched and a unusual package was found.
"Seems our drug dealers have employed a marketing manager.. #vitalintel @WMPolice."


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Analysis: The reasons why Arsenal are the perfect opposition for Aston Villa

After a momentous start to the new Premier League campaign , Aston Villa appear to have hit a relatively sticky patch .
Since beating Liverpool by seven goals to two before scoring a last-minute winner to snatch three points from Leicester City , Dean Smith 's outfit have conceded seven goals in two matches having lost 3-0 to Leeds United and 4-3 to Southampton .
The claret and blue must move past their current run of form and return to their previous ways , but a tricky clash with Arsenal is next on the agenda .
However , although Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Gunners could be the perfect opponents for them .
The modern perception of Arsenal as a team relates to their attack being good , but their defence being fragile and unreliable , but in actual fact , almost the opposite is true .
The London side developed a reputation for intricate and silky offensive football under Arsene Wenger , with the Frenchman responsible for the rise of players such as Thierry Henry , Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas .
Since his resignation , though , Arsenal have slipped under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attack ; Mikel Arteta 's side encounter big problems when they are trying to score goals .
So far this season , Arsenal have attempted just 58 shots in the Premier League which is less than half of Liverpool 's 119 , and is the less than West Brom 's figure of 59 ; Villa - who have played one game less - have taken 30 more shots than the Gunners , which is quite remarkable .
The story was similar last year , with Arsenal ending the 2019/20 campaign on 401 shots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 409 and Watford on 410 , with both of those sides suffering relegation .
Villa , by contrast , generated 453 efforts on goal which placed them ninth .
Arteta 's men - who have scored just one goal in their last three league games - have strangely developed a tendency to refrain from shooting .
That goal came from the penalty spot against Manchester United and the Gunners were understood to have dominated proceedings , yet they mustered only six efforts on goal compared to nine for Ole Gunnar Solksjaer 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Arsenal should not be recognised as the frightening offensive unit that many still believe them to be ; they can defend having conceded the fewest goals in the division so far but on the attacking side , they are reluctant and conservative .
Whether Smith 's men will return to winning ways or not remains to be seen , but when it comes to shoring up the defence after the displays against Leeds and Southampton , Arsenal could be the surprise ideal opposition to face .

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After a momentous start to the new Premier League campaign, Aston Villa appear to have hit a relatively sticky patch.
Since beating Liverpool by seven goals to two before scoring a last-minute winner to snatch three points from Leicester City, Dean Smith's outfit have conceded seven goals in two matches having lost 3-0 to Leeds United and 4-3 to Southampton.
The claret and blue must move past their current run of form and return to their previous ways, but a tricky clash with Arsenal is next on the agenda.
However, although Villa are conceding plenty of goals of late, the Gunners could be the perfect opponents for them.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The modern perception of Arsenal as a team relates to their attack being good, but their defence being fragile and unreliable, but in actual fact, almost the opposite is true.
The London side developed a reputation for intricate and silky offensive football under Arsene Wenger, with the Frenchman responsible for the rise of players such as Thierry Henry, Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas.
Since his resignation, though, Arsenal have slipped under the radar as a very quiet team in attack; Mikel Arteta's side encounter big problems when they are trying to score goals.
So far this season, Arsenal have attempted just 58 shots in the Premier League which is less than half of Liverpool's 119, and is the less than West Brom's figure of 59; Villa - who have played one game less - have taken 30 more shots than the Gunners, which is quite remarkable.
The story was similar last year, with Arsenal ending the 2019/20 campaign on 401 shots which ranked them 15th behind Norwich City on 409 and Watford on 410, with both of those sides suffering relegation. Villa, by contrast, generated 453 efforts on goal which placed them ninth.
Arteta's men - who have scored just one goal in their last three league games - have strangely developed a tendency to refrain from shooting. That goal came from the penalty spot against Manchester United and the Gunners were understood to have dominated proceedings, yet they mustered only six efforts on goal compared to nine for Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's team.
From the perspective of Villa, Arsenal should not be recognised as the frightening offensive unit that many still believe them to be; they can defend having conceded the fewest goals in the division so far but on the attacking side, they are reluctant and conservative.
Whether Smith's men will return to winning ways or not remains to be seen, but when it comes to shoring up the defence after the displays against Leeds and Southampton, Arsenal could be the surprise ideal opposition to face.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--New shops and restaurant on former Toys 'R' Us store in Oldbury

A former Oldbury Toys ‘ R ’ Us store which has stood empty for almost two years will be transformed into an £11 million retail park .
Sandwell council ’ s planning committee has granted permission for the development on Wolverhampton Road which includes a leisure outlet , shops , garden centre and a drive-thru restaurant .
David Green , an agent for Horton Estates , said the retail park will create 75 jobs and was a good news for the town .
Urging councillors to back the plan , he said : “ The decision by Horton Estates to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we think a big confidence boost for Sandwell . ''
Explaining the owners are one of the oldest property developers in the Midlands he said they were now in advance negotiations with potential tenants .
He added : “ I can confirm if planning permission is approved Hortons are committed to beginning construction immediately and have the main construction completed by August 2021 .
“ So the investment here is immediate and imminent and would represent about £11.5 million and based on standard employment ratios will create about 75 jobs from this development @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story.
” Pointing out there were no objections to the development , he told councillors : “ We hope that you will support this proposal and the investment it represents.
” Backing the development , planning officers recommended approval in a report to the committee , saying : `` The development proposed would meet certain other Development Plan objectives , such as those for renewable energy , job creation , reuse of previously developed land , bringing vacant land back into beneficial use , securing investment in the borough and adding to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Council bosses also assured councillors the development would not impact on a proposed £29 million redesign of the nearby Birchley Island .
The Toys ' R ' Us store closed in April 2018 following the collapse of the national chain with a loss of 3,000 jobs across the country .

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A former Oldbury Toys ‘R’ Us store which has stood empty for almost two years will be transformed into an £11 million retail park.
Sandwell council’s planning committee has granted permission for the development on Wolverhampton Road which includes a leisure outlet, shops, garden centre and a drive-thru restaurant.
David Green, an agent for Horton Estates, said the retail park will create 75 jobs and was a good news for the town.
Urging councillors to back the plan, he said: “The decision by Horton Estates to acquire and invest in this site is we think a big confidence boost for Sandwell."
Explaining the owners are one of the oldest property developers in the Midlands he said they were now in advance negotiations with potential tenants.
He added: “I can confirm if planning permission is approved Hortons are committed to beginning construction immediately and have the main construction completed by August 2021.
“So the investment here is immediate and imminent and would represent about £11.5 million and based on standard employment ratios will create about 75 jobs from this development, so it is a good news story.”
Pointing out there were no objections to the development, he told councillors: “We hope that you will support this proposal and the investment it represents.”
Backing the development, planning officers recommended approval in a report to the committee, saying: "The development proposed would meet certain other Development Plan objectives, such as those for renewable energy, job creation, reuse of previously developed land, bringing vacant land back into beneficial use, securing investment in the borough and adding to the range of facilities in the local area.”
Council bosses also assured councillors the development would not impact on a proposed £29 million redesign of the nearby Birchley Island.
The Toys 'R' Us store closed in April 2018 following the collapse of the national chain with a loss of 3,000 jobs across the country.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--All elective ops AXED at city's Queen Elizabeth Hospital

All planned procedures at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham due to take place this month have been axed .
The rising number of very sick patients with Covid and other conditions is blamed for the decision .
Gynaecology procedures at Good Hope Hospital have also been paused .
It 's a massive blow for residents waiting desperately , some in pain , for life enhancing operations including joint replacements , hernias and other conditions deemed not life-critical .
Both hospitals are run by University Hospitals Birmingham .
The hospitals trust has yet to clarify how many operations are involved .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is an extremely difficult decision and has not been taken lightly .
`` We know that affected patients will be distressed and upset with this decision , and for this we can only apologise .
However , we must ensure that all those needing urgent care are able to access treatment safely .
`` Cancer treatment and life-saving care will remain our priority .
All patients affected by this announcement will be contacted individually to rearrange their postponed surgery . ''
BirminghamLive warned last month that all operations deemed 'non critical ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mounted at UHB hospitals .
Some had already been rescheduled .
The move is designed to ensure life-critical cancer and emergency services remain intact as health services battle the dual challenge of rising demand and coronavirus cases .
It is not yet clear how many people are affected .
As flagged up last week , University Hospitals Birmingham is under pressure from all sides , as it deals with rising emergency admissions , a backlog of other health services and coronavirus cases , along with the space and staffing restrictions of working in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust has also told residents not to turn up at A & E unless their condition is critical , as they will be turned away .
Questions and answers from the trust for patients affected Will my surgery be cancelled ?
You will only be contacted if your procedure is postponed .
If you have not heard from us via telephone or by letter , please assume your procedure will go ahead .
Until the end of November , all non-emergency surgery at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham will be postponed , however this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have concerns about my surgery getting cancelled and I am worried about the impact this decision will have on my health , who can I speak with about this ?
If you have any non-urgent concerns about your health , contact the your hospital team or specialist as you usually would .
You may also seek advice from your GP .
If you require urgent advice about your health , please contact NHS 111 .
Always call 999 in a life-threatening emergency .
When will my procedure be re-arranged ?
The announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is likely to be in place until the end of November .
We want to restore non-urgent surgery as soon as possible and we will do so as soon as it is safe to do so .
We will have more on this story shortly .

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All planned procedures at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham due to take place this month have been axed.
The rising number of very sick patients with Covid and other conditions is blamed for the decision.
Gynaecology procedures at Good Hope Hospital have also been paused.
It's a massive blow for residents waiting desperately, some in pain, for life enhancing operations including joint replacements, hernias and other conditions deemed not life-critical.
Both hospitals are run by University Hospitals Birmingham.
The hospitals trust has yet to clarify how many operations are involved.
A spokesperson for the Trust said: "This is an extremely difficult decision and has not been taken lightly.
"We know that affected patients will be distressed and upset with this decision, and for this we can only apologise. However, we must ensure that all those needing urgent care are able to access treatment safely.
"Cancer treatment and life-saving care will remain our priority. All patients affected by this announcement will be contacted individually to rearrange their postponed surgery."
BirminghamLive warned last month that all operations deemed 'non critical' were under review as pressure on services mounted at UHB hospitals.
Some had already been rescheduled.
The move is designed to ensure life-critical cancer and emergency services remain intact as health services battle the dual challenge of rising demand and coronavirus cases.
It is not yet clear how many people are affected.
As flagged up last week, University Hospitals Birmingham is under pressure from all sides, as it deals with rising emergency admissions, a backlog of other health services and coronavirus cases, along with the space and staffing restrictions of working in a Covid secure environment.
The hospitals trust has also told residents not to turn up at A&E unless their condition is critical, as they will be turned away.
Questions and answers from the trust for patients affected
Will my surgery be cancelled?
You will only be contacted if your procedure is postponed. If you have not heard from us via telephone or by letter, please assume your procedure will go ahead.
Until the end of November, all non-emergency surgery at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham will be postponed, however this is reviewed on an on-going basis.
I have concerns about my surgery getting cancelled and I am worried about the impact this decision will have on my health, who can I speak with about this?
If you have any non-urgent concerns about your health, contact the your hospital team or specialist as you usually would. You may also seek advice from your GP.
If you require urgent advice about your health, please contact NHS 111. Always call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.
When will my procedure be re-arranged?
The announcement today means non-urgent procedures are cancelled and this is likely to be in place until the end of November. We want to restore non-urgent surgery as soon as possible and we will do so as soon as it is safe to do so.
We will have more on this story shortly.


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Traore out of Arsenal match as Smith issues updates on Heaton & Wesley

Dean Smith has confirmed winger Bertrand Traore will miss Sunday 's match with Arsenal due to injury .
The Burkina Faso international suffered a thigh injury in the early stages against Southampton last weekend and needed to be replaced by Trezeguet .
And Traore , who joined Aston Villa in a £17million transfer from Lyon in the window , wo n't recover in time to take part at The Emirates .
“ Bertrand came off and he ’ ll be struggling for Sunday , he won ’ t make it , '' said Smith .
`` He ’ ll definitely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Smith was also able to give updates on long-term absentees Tom Heaton and Wesley Moraes .
Neither has played since suffering knee injuries in the 2-1 win at Burnley on New Year 's Day but goalkeeper Heaton is closing in on a return to action .
“ Tom is in full training ; he needs a few games , '' said Smith .
`` He ’ s got a chance [ of playing for the U23s against Burnley on Monday ] , we ’ re waiting to see if that will go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect him to play.
” On Wesley , Smith added : “ He ’ s well-liked in the dressing room .
He had a horrific injury and he ’ s battling hard to come back from that .
”

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Dean Smith has confirmed winger Bertrand Traore will miss Sunday's match with Arsenal due to injury.
The Burkina Faso international suffered a thigh injury in the early stages against Southampton last weekend and needed to be replaced by Trezeguet.
And Traore, who joined Aston Villa in a £17million transfer from Lyon in the window, won't recover in time to take part at The Emirates.
“Bertrand came off and he’ll be struggling for Sunday, he won’t make it," said Smith. "He’ll definitely be back after the international break."
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Smith was also able to give updates on long-term absentees Tom Heaton and Wesley Moraes. Neither has played since suffering knee injuries in the 2-1 win at Burnley on New Year's Day but goalkeeper Heaton is closing in on a return to action.
“Tom is in full training; he needs a few games," said Smith. "He’s got a chance [of playing for the U23s against Burnley on Monday], we’re waiting to see if that will go ahead and if it does, I expect him to play.”
On Wesley, Smith added: “He’s well-liked in the dressing room. He had a horrific injury and he’s battling hard to come back from that.”


birminghammail--2020-11-06--Birmingham City Q&A Live: Transfers, team news and Bournemouth -

Birmingham City look to bounce back from Wednesday night 's defeat to Wycombe Wanderers against Bournemouth tomorrow .
They do @ @ @ @ @ Sunjic and having passed another game without a goal from open play .
Indeed the @ @ @ @ @ Chairboys was in stark and disappointing contrast to a first half that had seen them @ @ @ @ @ another corner routine .
After a couple of wins it was a reminder that goals @ @ @ @ @ an issue for Aitor Karanka 's men with may supporters feeling the attacking options need @ @ @ @ @ Dick will be here from 11.30-12.30 answering your questions so please join him by doing @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) You can click on the silhouette in the top right corner of this @ @ @ @ @ prompted to log in .
Or ... 2 ) If you try to type in @ @ @ @ @ top of the piece you will be prompted to log in that way Thanks and @ @ @ @ @ Keep Right On .

Birmingham City look to bounce back from Wednesday night's defeat to Wycombe Wanderers against Bournemouth tomorrow.
They do so without the suspended Ivan Sunjic and having passed another game without a goal from open play.
Indeed the second half performance against the Chairboys was in stark and disappointing contrast to a first half that had seen them take the lead through yet another corner routine.
After a couple of wins it was a reminder that goals continue to be something of an issue for Aitor Karanka's men with may supporters feeling the attacking options need augmenting.
Blues reporter Brian Dick will be here from 11.30-12.30 answering your questions so please join him by doing one of the following.
1) You can click on the silhouette in the top right corner of this piece and you will be prompted to log in. Or...
2) If you try to type in the chat window at the top of the piece you will be prompted to log in that way
Thanks and see you at 11.30.
Keep Right On.