birminghammail--2020-06-21--Why does Tom Hanks support Aston Villa? Here's why

He has spoken about his support of the club , has attended a Villa match and even been spotted with a claret and blue scarf .
It all might seem a bit random - a 63-year-old Californian bleeding Claret and Blue - so we look into it .
Hanks first spoke of his support of Villa in January 2008 .
He made the revelation at the premiere of his film Charlie Wilson 's War in London .
The two-time Oscar-winning actor likes Villa 's 'old world name ' and was quoted saying : `` Aston Villa sounds like a lovely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spa . ''
He has appeared on red carpets waving a scarf in the club 's colours and has spoken of his support for the club in several interviews .
His friend and fellow actor Bob Stephenson is a Villa fan .
Has he been to a match ?
Yes , he attended Villa 's pre-season friendly at Portland Timbers in the summer of 2012 , flying in from Los Angeles to watch the match with Stephenson .
The match ended in a 2-2 draw and concluded with a penalty shootout .
Before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager Paul Lambert and players including Fabian Delph and Gabby Agbonlahor .
What has he said about Villa ?
In a TV interview on Channel 5 in 2013 , Hanks spoke of his support of Villa .
Asked if he was a Villa fan , he replied : `` I am .
Well I 've seen one Aston Villa match , it was a friendly in the United States .
`` I try to keep up .
I have a very good friend that lives and dies by Aston Villa , he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm always getting my updates from him .
`` Because I can never figure out what channel the football match is on on my grid at home - 583 , 643 , 801 ?
I can never quite find it .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' Every time I 'm looking at the football matches on the soccer channels , as we call it , it 's always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ v Queens Park Rangers .
Bring me Villa , bring me Villa !
`` Does n't it sound like a lovely place , Aston Villa ?
I had a lovely massage at Aston Villa ... . ''
Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live in 2015 , the season where Villa were relegated from the Premier League , Hanks did not give up on the club .
He said : “ Listen .
Rooting for a football team is a life lesson , the ups are ups and the downs are downs , you 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A few months later when the club ’ s relegation was confirmed , Hanks issued a message to the Villa supporters .
The Forrest Gump star said : “ This is a message to all the claret and blue : Hang on .
`` There 's not a club in the world that has n't experienced this and there 's not a club in the world that has n't fought back .
This is why Prince William supports Villa - READ '' Aston Villa will see their destiny through .
Hang on .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ scarves .
Be proud . ''
Ahead of Villa 's play-off final at Wembley in May 2019 , Hanks sent a good luck message : “ On Monday I will bleed claret and blue for Aston Villa .
“ One match away for a return to the Premier League .
Up the Villa !
Hanx ” Then , after the 2-1 victory over Derby County sealed their return to the top flight , he added : “ In the UK ?
Prepared !
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Conor Keane, Brian Dick)

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Famous Hollywood actor Tom Hanks has not hidden his passion and support for Aston Villa.
He was even spotted at Villa Park back in February to watch the Premier League game against Arsenal. He has spoken about his support of the club in the past, has attended a Villa match and even been spotted with a claret and blue scarf.
In a recent interview, he was even asked if he would ever consider buying the club after Wrexham was purchased by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2020. "I think Wrexham is a little bit different in the economic scale than Aston Villa," he laughed, in an interview with the BBC. "That's a little above my pay grade."
READ MORE: Ryan Mason handed major injury boost ahead of Aston Villa vs Tottenham clash
READ MORE: Jhon Duran breaks silence after Aston Villa decision to block World Cup involvement
It all might seem a bit random though - a 66-year-old Californian bleeding claret and blue. So here's all you need to know about why Hanks supporters the Villa...
Why does Tom Hanks support Villa?
Hanks first spoke of his support of Villa in January 2008. He made the revelation at the premiere of his film Charlie Wilson's War in London.
The two-time Oscar-winning actor likes Villa's 'old world name' and was quoted saying: "Aston Villa sounds like a lovely little place. It sounds like a spa."
"I thought ‘Aston Villa’, what a lovely vacation spot! Aston Villa... Its beautiful villa, you throw open the French doors, there’s the beautiful port of Aston down below you,” Hanks told Corden.
"And it turns out it’s in Birmingham. There’s nothing wrong with that, nothing wrong with Birmingham. But it’s not a town for the light-hearted, I tell you that.
"So I’m a dedicated Aston Villa fan since then. I’ve seen them play once, a friendly in the USA, so yes, I support them."
He has appeared on red carpets waving a scarf in the club's colours and has spoken of his support for the club in several interviews. His friend and fellow actor Bob Stephenson is a Villa fan.
Has he been to a match?
Yes, he attended Villa's pre-season friendly at Portland Timbers in the summer of 2012, flying in from Los Angeles to watch the match with Stephenson.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw and concluded with a penalty shootout. Before the game he posed for photographs with manager Paul Lambert and players including Fabian Delph and Gabby Agbonlahor.
What has he said about Villa?
In a TV interview on Channel 5 in 2013, Hanks spoke of his support of Villa. Asked if he was a Villa fan, he replied: "I am. Well I've seen one Aston Villa match, it was a friendly in the United States.
"I try to keep up. I have a very good friend that lives and dies by Aston Villa, he's in Los Angeles as well, so I'm always getting my updates from him.
"Because I can never figure out what channel the football match is on on my grid at home - 583, 643, 801? I can never quite find it.
"Every time I'm looking at the football matches on the soccer channels, as we call it, it's always West Ham playing Man United, Tottenham v Queens Park Rangers. Bring me Villa, bring me Villa!
"Doesn't it sound like a lovely place, Aston Villa? I had a lovely massage at Aston Villa...."
Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live in 2015, the season where Villa were relegated from the Premier League, Hanks did not give up on the club. He said: “Listen. Rooting for a football team is a life lesson, the ups are ups and the downs are downs, you've just got to roll with them.”
A few months later when the club’s relegation was confirmed, Hanks issued a message to the Villa supporters.
The Forrest Gump star said: “This is a message to all the claret and blue: Hang on. There's not a club in the world that hasn't experienced this and there's not a club in the world that hasn't fought back. Aston Villa will see their destiny through. Hang on. Don't give up. Wear the scarves. Be proud."
Ahead of Villa's play-off final at Wembley in May 2019, Hanks sent a good luck message: “On Monday I will bleed claret and blue for Aston Villa. One match away for a return to the Premier League. Up the Villa! Hanx”
Then, after the 2-1 victory over Derby County sealed their return to the top flight, he added: “In the UK? Prepared!”
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birminghammail--2020-06-21--The reasons why Prince William supports Aston Villa

Prince William , the Duke of Cambridge , is a huge Aston Villa fan and has been spotted numerous times at matches and has previously spoken about his support of the club .
Ahead of Villa 's FA Cup defeat to Arsenal in May 2015 under Tim Sherwood , he spoke to BBC presenter Gary Linker about his Villa allegiance .
Prince William said : “ A long time ago at school I got into football big time .
I was looking around for clubs .
All my friends at school were either Man United fans or Chelsea fans and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the run of the mill teams .
“ I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table that could give me more emotional rollercoaster moments .
“ Aston Villa ’ s always had a great history .
I have got friends of mine who support Aston Villa and one of the first FA Cup games I went to was Bolton v Aston Villa back in 2000 .
Sadly , Villa went on to lose to Chelsea .
“ It was fantastic , I sat with all the fans with my red beanie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the Brummie fans and had a great time .
“ It was the atmosphere , the camaraderie and I really felt that there was something I could connect with.
” Speaking in February 2020 , William said : `` People like Paul Merson were playing and I thought if people like him can play as well as he does , knowing the struggles he was under at the time ... this is a club I can support .
`` I was also born in ‘ 82 , the year we won the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel the history and pedigree around Villa has always been quite close to me . ''
He was pictured at in an executive box at Villa Park for the 0-0 Premier League draw against Sunderland in November 2013 .
He also attended the 2015 FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal , as a dignitary in the Royal Box .
His Royal Highness sat next to then Villa owner Randy Lerner for the match .
Villa lost the match 4-0 and Prince William presented the trophy to Arsenal and handed out runners-up medals to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa Park for the 1-0 Championship victory over Cardiff City in April 2018 .
He was pictured celebrating in an executive box with former Villa favourite John Carew as Jack Grealish grabbed a late winner .
The prince stopped after the match to chat and have photographs taken with players and staff .
He attended the play-off final defeat to Fulham at Wembley in May 2018 , a week after his brother Harry 's wedding , and was at Carrow Road earlier this season to see the Villa whip Norwich 5-1 .
Have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa support ?
He appeared to be wearing a claret tie during the wedding of his wife 's sister Pippa Middleton in May 2017 .
In October 2017 , the Duke and Duchess visited the London Stadium , the home of West Ham United .
The Hammers offered their young children replica kits ; however , William showed his true colours .
A month later , as a guest at the Pride of Britain awards he wore a Villa scarf in a show of solidarity with Villa fan Moin Younis , who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for living with a severe skin condition .
Aston Villa webchat - how to get involved Hello !
At Birmingham Live , we are keen to give the fans as much opportunity to discuss the beautiful game as much as possible .
That is why we have decided to launch a brand new webchat forum , which allows supporters to interact with both our writers and each other .
At several points every week , we will be opening up our webchats , with opportunities to take part in live Q & As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the chance to air your opinions about the end of the Premier League season with your fellow fans .
With no fans allowed at stadiums , we want to replicate that community feel here .
Talking , and keeping in touch , has never been more important .
If you want to take part in these chats , all you have to do is follow these four simple steps to register .
1 .
Write your message in the box and either press enter or click on the blue marker , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prompt a new box to appear , where you can either sign-in if you already have an account , or register if you do not have an account .
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When you click 'register ' , this box will appear .
Once you have entered your details , you can click 'create account ' to confirm .
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And now you 're ready to take part in the chat , with your username initials appearing at the bottom left-hand side of the page .
It really is that simple .
Remember @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take part , and we want our discussions to be polite , civil and considerate .
Enjoy .
In the same month , the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Villa Park and spoke to manager Steve Bruce , with the Duke praising the manager for how his team were playing .
He never shies away from his his claret and blue allegiances and was spreading the Villa love in September 2018 while on a training session in Kenya with his regiment , the Irish Guards .
William met local forces but also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Kinamba as part of a community project .
He presented each of the players with this season 's Villa shirt , giving them a mix of home and away tops , and posed for a picture .
How have Villa celebrated his support ?
After the birth of all three of William and Kate 's children , Villa have tweeted a welcome message including a picture of a Villa shirt printed with 'HRH ' .
What have Villa officials said about him ?
Then Villa manager Steve Bruce was impressed with how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa side when they met in November 2017 .
Bruce said : “ He introduced Kate to me as the ‘ top man ’ .
`` He talked about the squad and how we have turned it around a little bit .
“ He ’ s delighted we are moving it forward .
Being a dad myself , you would like him as a son .
He was impeccable .
“ It ’ s not often you have the future King as a supporter so it ’ s great for the club .
@

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Mat Kendrick, Shane Ireland, James Rushton)

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Prince William has been spotted at the FA Cup final at Wembley.
The second-in-line to the throne behind his father, Prince Charles, greeted Chelsea and Leicester City's players before the showpiece Wembley final today.
William, President of the Football Association, is a big Aston Villa fan.
Here's why he chose to follow the claret and blue...
Why does Prince William support Aston Villa?
Ahead of Villa's FA Cup defeat to Arsenal in May 2015 under Tim Sherwood, he spoke to BBC presenter Gary Linker about his Villa allegiance.
Prince William said: “A long time ago at school I got into football big time. I was looking around for clubs. All my friends at school were either Man United fans or Chelsea fans and I didn’t want to follow the run of the mill teams.
“I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table that could give me more emotional rollercoaster moments.
“Aston Villa’s always had a great history. I have got friends of mine who support Aston Villa and one of the first FA Cup games I went to was Bolton v Aston Villa back in 2000. Sadly, Villa went on to lose to Chelsea.
“It was fantastic, I sat with all the fans with my red beanie on, and I was sat with all the Brummie fans and had a great time.
“It was the atmosphere, the camaraderie and I really felt that there was something I could connect with.”
Speaking in February 2020, William said: "People like Paul Merson were playing and I thought if people like him can play as well as he does, knowing the struggles he was under at the time...this is a club I can support.
"I was also born in ‘82, the year we won the (European) Cup, so I feel the history and pedigree around Villa has always been quite close to me."
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Has he attended matches?
He was pictured at in an executive box at Villa Park for the 0-0 Premier League draw against Sunderland in November 2013.
Prince William was wearing a Villa coat and a Villa scarf.
He also attended the 2015 FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, as a dignitary in the Royal Box.
His Royal Highness sat next to then Villa owner Randy Lerner for the match. Villa lost the match 4-0 and Prince William presented the trophy to Arsenal and handed out runners-up medals to Tim Sherwood's players.
Wills visited Villa Park for the 1-0 Championship victory over Cardiff City in April 2018.
He was pictured celebrating in an executive box with former Villa favourite John Carew as Jack Grealish grabbed a late winner.
The prince stopped after the match to chat and have photographs taken with players and staff.
He attended the play-off final defeat to Fulham at Wembley in May 2018, a week after his brother Harry's wedding, and was at Carrow Road earlier this season to see the Villa whip Norwich 5-1.
Have there been any other examples of his Villa support?
He appeared to be wearing a claret tie during the wedding of his wife's sister Pippa Middleton in May 2017.
In October 2017, the Duke and Duchess visited the London Stadium, the home of West Ham United. The Hammers offered their young children replica kits; however, William showed his true colours.
He jokingly said: “Right colours, wrong team.”
A month later, as a guest at the Pride of Britain awards he wore a Villa scarf in a show of solidarity with Villa fan Moin Younis, who was recognised with an award for his bravery for living with a severe skin condition.
In the same month, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Villa Park and spoke to manager Steve Bruce, with the Duke praising the manager for how his team were playing.
He never shies away from his his claret and blue allegiances and was spreading the Villa love in September 2018 while on a training session in Kenya with his regiment, the Irish Guards.
William met local forces but also the football team from the small town of Kinamba as part of a community project.
He presented each of the players with this season's Villa shirt, giving them a mix of home and away tops, and posed for a picture.
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How have Villa celebrated his support?
After the birth of all three of William and Kate's children, Villa have tweeted a welcome message including a picture of a Villa shirt printed with 'HRH'.
What have Villa officials said about him?
Then Villa manager Steve Bruce was impressed with how much knowledge HRH had about the current Villa side when they met in November 2017.
Bruce said: “He introduced Kate to me as the ‘top man’.
"He talked about the squad and how we have turned it around a little bit.
“He’s delighted we are moving it forward. Being a dad myself, you would like him as a son. He was impeccable.
“It’s not often you have the future King as a supporter so it’s great for the club."


birminghammail--2020-06-21--Police appeal to find Tipton biker youths

Police have released a video of two motorbike-riding youths they are trying to trace .
Taking to Twitter the force appealed for members of the public to come forward if they have any information connection to the group .
The footage was captured in Tibbington Open Space in Tipon , known locally as The Cracker .
It shows two males dressed in dark clothing riding a white and orange motorbike around the open space of the woodland .
You can see the footage in the video above Officers have asked for anyone who knows the identity of the two males @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stored to come forward .
The tweet reads : `` Please get in contact with us ( online via website ) or 101 if you have any information about where these bikes are kept and who owns them .
We ’ d like to have a chat with them .
Thanks ! ''
* In a separate incident over in Upper Gornal in Dudley , a busy junction was cordoned off for many hours after two men were stabbed last night .
A police investigation was sparked after residents reported hearing disturbances and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the street covered in blood .
This morning , a man was arrested in Great Barr in connection with the attack .

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Police have released a video of two motorbike-riding youths they are trying to trace.
Taking to Twitter the force appealed for members of the public to come forward if they have any information connection to the group.
The footage was captured in Tibbington Open Space in Tipon, known locally as The Cracker.
It shows two males dressed in dark clothing riding a white and orange motorbike around the open space of the woodland.
You can see the footage in the video above
(Image: WMP)
Officers have asked for anyone who knows the identity of the two males as well as where the bikes are stored to come forward.
The tweet reads: "Please get in contact with us (online via website) or 101 if you have any information about where these bikes are kept and who owns them. We’d like to have a chat with them. Thanks!"
* In a separate incident over in Upper Gornal in Dudley, a busy junction was cordoned off for many hours after two men were stabbed last night.
A police investigation was sparked after residents reported hearing disturbances and saw one of the victims lying in the street covered in blood.
This morning, a man was arrested in Great Barr in connection with the attack.


birminghammail--2020-06-21--Police appeal to trace car driver after biker left 'critically' ill in smash

Police are appealing for witnesses to a smash in Coventry that left a biker with multiple injuries .
The motorbike crashed into a black VW Golf in Bedworth Road , between Oban Road and Ibstock Road , at around 7.45pm last night ( June 20 ) .
The 53-year-old biker was left seriously injured on the ground as the Golf driver and two passengers fled the scene .
He is now in critical condition in hospital with multiple injuries .
West Midlands Police is appealing for the car driver to come forward as well as witnesses who may have dash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been seized for forensic examination and officers have launched an investigation to identify and arrest the men .
Sergeant Dean Caswell from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit , said : “ We are currently in the process of piecing together exactly what happened but we need anyone who may have witnessed the collision to get in touch .
“ In particular I am keen to hear from anyone with dash cam footage who was in the area around the time of the collision and may have caught the black VW Golf on video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical condition in hospital with multiple injuries .
`` We need to find the driver of the Golf and I would urge him to do the right thing and come and speak to us .
We want to hear your account of what happened.
” Anyone with information is urged to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0121 322 6098 .
People can also message the police on Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am - midnight , or call 101 anytime .
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Police are appealing for witnesses to a smash in Coventry that left a biker with multiple injuries.
The motorbike crashed into a black VW Golf in Bedworth Road, between Oban Road and Ibstock Road, at around 7.45pm last night (June 20).
The 53-year-old biker was left seriously injured on the ground as the Golf driver and two passengers fled the scene.
He is now in critical condition in hospital with multiple injuries.
West Midlands Police is appealing for the car driver to come forward as well as witnesses who may have dash cam footage.
The VW Golf has been seized for forensic examination and officers have launched an investigation to identify and arrest the men.
Sergeant Dean Caswell from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “We are currently in the process of piecing together exactly what happened but we need anyone who may have witnessed the collision to get in touch.
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“In particular I am keen to hear from anyone with dash cam footage who was in the area around the time of the collision and may have caught the black VW Golf on video.
“The biker is in a critical condition in hospital with multiple injuries.
"We need to find the driver of the Golf and I would urge him to do the right thing and come and speak to us. We want to hear your account of what happened.”
Anyone with information is urged to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0121 322 6098.
People can also message the police on Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am - midnight, or call 101 anytime. Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Please quote log number 3127 of 20/06/20.


birminghammail--2020-06-21--Chelsea fans fume over Lampard decision for Aston Villa clash

Frank Lampard has sprung a surprise or two when naming his Chelsea team to face Aston Villa .
Chelsea are the visitors to Villa Park this afternoon in their first fixture of the Premier League restart .
Villa boss Dean Smith has picked an unchanged starting XI from Wednesday 's goalless draw against Sheffield United .
Keeping faith with Orjan Nyland despite the 'no goal ' controversy , Ezri Konsa , Kortney Hause , Tyrone Mings and Matt Targett make up a four-man defence .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Play Store and App Store Douglas Luiz , John McGinn and Conor Hourihane are in midfield while Keinan Davis starts upfront flanked by Anwar El Ghazi and Jack Grealish .
But Chelsea 's side is arguably not what was expected .
While Lampard is boosted by the returns of N ’ Golo Kante and Ruben Loftus-Cheek , former Villa loan hero Tammy Abraham does not start .
The striker , who scored 26 goals to fire Villa to promotion last season , has to make do with a place on the bench @ @ @ @ @ @ @ James , Christian Pulisic and Billy Gilmour are also substitutes for today 's clash .
When the team news was confirmed on social media , one Chelsea fan said : `` The absolute state of this lineup . ''
`` Real team please , '' said another .
A third fan added : `` RLC is back but no Gilmour , Reece James , Tammy or Pulisic ... '' Pulisic on the bench over Mount , really ? ''
asked one supporter .
A fifth admitted : `` I did not expect this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tammy to start .
RLC is back .
Lampard is full of surprises . ''
`` Why does Lampard have to put out such a lineup just to show off as if he is some special manager who understands chemistry and stuff ? ''
fumed another .
`` Just play Pulisic , Tammy and James . ''

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Frank Lampard has sprung a surprise or two when naming his Chelsea team to face Aston Villa.
Chelsea are the visitors to Villa Park this afternoon in their first fixture of the Premier League restart.
Villa boss Dean Smith has picked an unchanged starting XI from Wednesday's goalless draw against Sheffield United.
Keeping faith with Orjan Nyland despite the 'no goal' controversy, Ezri Konsa, Kortney Hause, Tyrone Mings and Matt Targett make up a four-man defence.
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Douglas Luiz, John McGinn and Conor Hourihane are in midfield while Keinan Davis starts upfront flanked by Anwar El Ghazi and Jack Grealish.
But Chelsea's side is arguably not what was expected. While Lampard is boosted by the returns of N’Golo Kante and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, former Villa loan hero Tammy Abraham does not start.
The striker, who scored 26 goals to fire Villa to promotion last season, has to make do with a place on the bench as Olivier Giroud comes in.
Reece James, Christian Pulisic and Billy Gilmour are also substitutes for today's clash.
When the team news was confirmed on social media, one Chelsea fan said: "The absolute state of this lineup."
"Real team please," said another.
A third fan added: "RLC is back but no Gilmour, Reece James, Tammy or Pulisic...
"Pulisic on the bench over Mount, really?" asked one supporter.
A fifth admitted: "I did not expect this lineup at all. Expected Pulisic, Tammy to start. RLC is back. Lampard is full of surprises."
"Why does Lampard have to put out such a lineup just to show off as if he is some special manager who understands chemistry and stuff?" fumed another. "Just play Pulisic, Tammy and James."


birminghammail--2020-06-21--Murder inquiry after rave - police crackdown on illegal gatherings

Police are investigating a double murder after two people died from a shooting at an illegal gathering in Manchester which was attended by 'hundeds of people . '
It comes after an illegal rave in Chasewate r led to 13 arrests overnight and up to 200 people got together in Sorrell Park in Erdington , leaving piles of booze bottles and 'hippy crack ' ( canisters of laughing gas ) on the ground .
Police across the UK have vowed to 'take serious action ' to prevent these large gatherings going forward .
In Moss Side , Manchester , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death in the early hours of this morning ( June 21 ) and a 21-year-old was also taken to hospital with gunshot wounds but died later , according to Sky Greater Manchester Police said no arrests have been made as yet and and a police cordon is in place around a residential courtyard where the lockdown party was held .
Social media footage showed a crowd of revellers tightly packed into the courtyard as they danced to loud music .
Detective Inspector Andrew Butterworth said : `` Firstly , our thoughts are with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are understandably devastated .
Specialist officers are doing everything they can to support them at this time .
`` A thorough and fast-paced investigation is already well underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and arrest those responsible .
As we speak , dedicated teams of officers are carrying out house to house enquiries and reviewing CCTV . ''
He added : `` We are aware that , a number of hours before this incident , there was a community event in Moss Side .
`` This event was attended by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and partner agencies - it was not an illegal rave and it had concluded prior to this incident .
`` It does appear that the incident took place at what we believe was an unplanned event near to the location of the earlier community event .
`` The local community will be devastated to learn about this tragic loss of life , we are working hard to try and reassure the community , talking to people and trying to offer some reassurance . ''
Last weekend , there were two gatherings in Trafford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pledge to take 'serious action ' to deter more illegal raves .
This approach is being taken by police across the UK .
Following the arrests in Staffordshire , Chief Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe , Head of Contact and Response for Staffordshire Police , said : “ Our priority is the safety of our communities and we will continue to take action against those who put the health of others in jeopardy .
“ These gatherings are both illegal and irresponsible and put people at risk with the current global pandemic still not over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop these illegal raves from taking place .
”

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Police are investigating a double murder after two people died from a shooting at an illegal gathering in Manchester which was attended by 'hundreds of people.'
It comes after an illegal rave in Chasewater led to 13 arrests overnight and up to 200 people got together in Sorrell Park in Erdington, leaving piles of booze bottles and 'hippy crack' (canisters of laughing gas) on the ground.
Police across the UK have vowed to 'take serious action' to prevent these large gatherings going forward.
In Moss Side, Manchester, a shooting led to a 36-year-old man's death in the early hours of this morning (June 21) and a 21-year-old was also taken to hospital with gunshot wounds but died later, according to Sky
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Greater Manchester Police said no arrests have been made as yet and and a police cordon is in place around a residential courtyard where the lockdown party was held. Social media footage showed a crowd of revellers tightly packed into the courtyard as they danced to loud music.
Detective Inspector Andrew Butterworth said: "Firstly, our thoughts are with the victims' loved ones, who are understandably devastated. Specialist officers are doing everything they can to support them at this time.
"A thorough and fast-paced investigation is already well underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and arrest those responsible. As we speak, dedicated teams of officers are carrying out house to house enquiries and reviewing CCTV."
He added: "We are aware that, a number of hours before this incident, there was a community event in Moss Side.
"This event was attended by Greater Manchester Police along with local people and partner agencies - it was not an illegal rave and it had concluded prior to this incident.
"It does appear that the incident took place at what we believe was an unplanned event near to the location of the earlier community event.
"The local community will be devastated to learn about this tragic loss of life, we are working hard to try and reassure the community, talking to people and trying to offer some reassurance."
Last weekend, there were two gatherings in Trafford and Oldham, sparking the force to pledge to take 'serious action' to deter more illegal raves.
This approach is being taken by police across the UK.
Following the arrests in Staffordshire, Chief Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, Head of Contact and Response for Staffordshire Police, said: “Our priority is the safety of our communities and we will continue to take action against those who put the health of others in jeopardy.
“These gatherings are both illegal and irresponsible and put people at risk with the current global pandemic still not over. We will do all we can to stop these illegal raves from taking place.”


birminghammail--2020-06-21--Aston Villa fans react to Dean Smith's big Keinan Davis decision

Aston Villa need to start picking up points , and their mission to survival begins - truly - today against Chelsea .
Frank Lampard 's team kick off their Premier League campaign once more , while Villa have enjoyed a slight head start , having played Sheffield United in midweek .
Villa earned a draw in controversial circumstances against the Blades , but showed plenty of positives in a rather dull affair - a huge chance from their last outing in March .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store and App Store Ahead of Chelsea , Dean Smith has announced an unchanged side from the Blades clash , despite calls from the fanbase to play both Mbwana Samatta and Keinan Davis .
Orjan Nyland starts in goal , while Ezri Konsa , Tyrone Mings , Kortney Hause and Matt Targett line-up at the back .
Douglas Luiz , John McGinn and Conor Hourihane start in midfield while Jack Grealish , Anwar El Ghazi and Davis lead the line .
The decision to start Davis alone uptop remains the main talking point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villans hoping to impress once more .
Here 's how Villa fans reacted to the line-up news ... '' Wish he would play 2 up top . ''
`` Oh come on .
Samatta for AEG please . ''
`` Need two up top I ’ m afraid . ''
`` Should play two up top but i ’ ll take it . ''
`` Unchanged side is asking for burnout .
Should have made 3 changes at least . ''

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birminghammail--2020-06-21--Scott Parker makes Leeds United claim as West Brom go top

Fulham boss Scott Parker says his side are facing their biggest game of the season so far against Leeds United next week .
Parker 's side missed out on the chance to narrow their gap on West Bromwich Albion and Leeds after losing 2-0 at home to London rivals Brentford .
Late goals from Said Benrahma and Emiliano Marcondes condemned Fulham to defeat in Saturday 's early game before Albion played out a goalless draw against Birmingham City to send them top of the table .
The Craven Cottage side are seven points behind the top two and travel to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City - next weekend .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' Of course , it ’ s an important game , '' said Parker in his post match press conference .
`` But today was important , the following week is going to be important , the next eight games left are going to be vitally important for us .
`` They come no bigger ( than Leeds ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team who are top of the table , the challenge is there for us .
Every week you have that .
`` The games come thick and fast and they ’ re tough games .
We ’ ll prepare this week as best we can , and we ’ ll go and try to put a performance in next week to try and win the game . ''
Parker claimed playing in an empty Elland Road would not necessarily benefit his side .
`` There ’ s certain hostile atmospheres and environments that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that place , the fans are superb up there so you can look at it both ways , '' he said .
`` You can look at it in that it could take the edge off them ( Leeds ) , but at the same time you could look at it the other way that sometimes it ’ s those hostile environments that you want to go into and can make the difference .
It ’ s the same with Brentford today .
`` We ’ ve missed our fans , but , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have probably had three or four thousand Brentford fans shouting for them as away support .
It ’ s not ideal for anyone . ''
The Baggies take on Brentford at Griffin Park on Friday night aiming to extend their advantage at the top and host Fulham next month .

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Fulham boss Scott Parker says his side are facing their biggest game of the season so far against Leeds United next week.
Parker's side missed out on the chance to narrow their gap on West Bromwich Albion and Leeds after losing 2-0 at home to London rivals Brentford.
Late goals from Said Benrahma and Emiliano Marcondes condemned Fulham to defeat in Saturday's early game before Albion played out a goalless draw against Birmingham City to send them top of the table.
The Craven Cottage side are seven points behind the top two and travel to Leeds - who lost 2-0 to Cardiff City - next weekend.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
"Of course, it’s an important game," said Parker in his post match press conference. "But today was important, the following week is going to be important, the next eight games left are going to be vitally important for us.
"They come no bigger (than Leeds) because you’re playing against a team who are top of the table, the challenge is there for us. Every week you have that.
"The games come thick and fast and they’re tough games. We’ll prepare this week as best we can, and we’ll go and try to put a performance in next week to try and win the game."
Parker claimed playing in an empty Elland Road would not necessarily benefit his side. "There’s certain hostile atmospheres and environments that you can thrive off and Leeds is that place, the fans are superb up there so you can look at it both ways," he said.
"You can look at it in that it could take the edge off them (Leeds), but at the same time you could look at it the other way that sometimes it’s those hostile environments that you want to go into and can make the difference. It’s the same with Brentford today.
"We’ve missed our fans, but, at the same time, they would have probably had three or four thousand Brentford fans shouting for them as away support. It’s not ideal for anyone."
The Baggies take on Brentford at Griffin Park on Friday night aiming to extend their advantage at the top and host Fulham next month.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Dean Smith provides Aston Villa injury update before Newcastle

Dean Smith will welcome back Frederic Guilbert and Danny Drinkwater for Wednesday 's trip to Newcastle United .
The duo have missed the first two games of Project Restart with injury and will both train at Bodymoor Heath today .
John McGinn will remain a fitness doubt given his unusually quiet showing against Chelsea in what was his second match in just four days .
Providing an update , Smith said : `` Everybody 's come through it OK. Freddie Guilbert has been training the last few days and he comes into contention again .
We 'll have another look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
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Google Play Store and App Store As for Drinkwater , the midfielder sustained an injury in a behind-closed-doors friendly against former club Leicester City in the week leading up to the Sheffield United fixture .
The 30-year-old could n't play against parent club Chelsea on Sunday anyway with Wednesday 's trip to Newcastle a more likely return date .
Villa 's extended 20-man squad will fly up to St James 's Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key fixtures coming up , Smith said : `` The fact we 've got one point out of two games makes it a really important game .
Newcastle had a very good result yesterday which sees them safe .
We have to make sure we 're at our best and , if our performance levels are up there , we 've got a good chance .
`` We all know it 's a big game for us .
The two games coming up , Newcastle and Wolves are pivotal in what we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result yesterday , we 're in a decent place .
The squad believe we 've got a great opportunity and we 've been given that with the Restart . ''

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Aston Villa head coach Dean Smith will have a few surprises up his sleeve as he prepares for tonight's trip to Newcastle United.
The Villa gaffer can now welcome back both right-back Frederic Guilbert and on-loan Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater for tonight's reunion with former Villans manager Steve Bruce.
Both players missed the initial games of the Project Restart era thanks to minor injury issues, and the pair trained at Bodymoor Heath earlier this week.
However, doubts remain over the condition of John McGinn. The midfielder returned from injury against Sheffield United, but struggled against Chelsea. It might be too much of an ask for the player to pick up against the Magpies just three days on.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Bjorn Engels (Achilles) will miss the trip to the North East and will remain a major doubt for Wolves on Saturday.
Providing an update in his pre-match press conference, Smith said: "Everybody's come through it OK. Freddie Guilbert has been training the last few days and he comes into contention again. We'll have another look at him again today."
As for Drinkwater, the midfielder sustained an injury in a behind-closed-doors friendly against former club Leicester City in the week leading up to the Sheffield United fixture.
The 30-year-old couldn't play against parent club Chelsea on Sunday anyway with Wednesday's trip to Newcastle a more likely return date.
Villa's extended 20-man squad will fly up to St James's Park after training on Tuesday.
The head coach admitted he'll be making changes for the upcoming games with Newcastle and Wolves, and said: "We have to. There's a 48-hour turnaround between the Newcastle game and Wolves game.
"We stopped over in Bodymoor Heath last night and today we'll have another recovery session. The lads who didn't play will do a bit more and we'll see how everyone is."
Ahead of key fixtures coming up, Smith said: "The fact we've got one point out of two games makes it a really important game. Newcastle had a very good result yesterday which sees them safe. We have to make sure we're at our best and, if our performance levels are up there, we've got a good chance.
"We all know it's a big game for us. The two games coming up, Newcastle and Wolves are pivotal in what we do.
"We feel, despite the result yesterday, we're in a decent place. The squad believe we've got a great opportunity and we've been given that with the Restart."


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Martin Lewis warns every homeowner in UK not to break his 'golden rule'

Martin Lewis has today shared his golden rule for every homeowner in the UK .
The advice , issued by the MoneySavingExpert.com founder on Monday , could prove useful to millions .
The guidance concerns home insurance , and Martin revealed it during his appearance on This Morning today .
Appearing via video link from North London , Martin told presenters Phil Schofield and Davina McCall his tip .
Martin , who has his own ITV1 show The Martin Lewis Money Show , warned : `` With home insurance , it is one of the prime areas where insurers use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And what that means is that you get your quote in the first year and it will be competitive . ''
Martin added : `` Then , if you do not change the year after that , they walk the price up slowly - maybe 25 per cent .
`` More the year after , more the year after , a little bit more the year after . ''
He then warned : `` The golden rules when it comes to getting home insurance is NOT to auto renew .
Always go out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out there . ''
Martin continued : `` You could find your insurance costing you 50 per cent more after a couple of years compared to your first quote . ''

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Martin Lewis has today shared his golden rule for every homeowner in the UK.
The advice, issued by the MoneySavingExpert.com founder on Monday, could prove useful to millions.
The guidance concerns home insurance, and Martin revealed it during his appearance on This Morning today.
Appearing via video link from North London, Martin told presenters Phil Schofield and Davina McCall his tip.
Martin, who has his own ITV1 show The Martin Lewis Money Show, warned: "With home insurance, it is one of the prime areas where insurers use a thing called price walking.
"And what that means is that you get your quote in the first year and it will be competitive."
Martin added: "Then, if you do not change the year after that, they walk the price up slowly - maybe 25 per cent.
"More the year after, more the year after, a little bit more the year after."
He then warned: "The golden rules when it comes to getting home insurance is NOT to auto renew. Always go out and check if there are cheaper prices out there."
Martin continued: "You could find your insurance costing you 50 per cent more after a couple of years compared to your first quote."


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Superbike rider killed in crash at Midland track

A British Superbike star has tragically died after a fatal collision at a Midlands track .
Ben Godfrey sadly passed away on Sunday , June 21 , after being involved in a crash with a fellow biker .
Godfrey , aged just 25 , collided with another motorbike at the No Limits Trackday yesterday .
The event was being held at Castle Donington , in Leicestershire , in the East Midlands .
The company behind the event confirmed on Twitter and Instagram : `` Tragically ( Ben ) suffered serious injuries and despite immediate medical assistance trackside , he succumbed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Director Mark Neate said : `` I am so desperately sad that Ben died from the injuries he sustained .
`` Ben really was a fantastic young man and friends with so many people in the paddock , he was always smiling and had time for everyone .
`` He was very excited for the start of the season and had taken part in many trackdays in the last month .
Our thoughts are with his family , his partner Jordan and his team mates and friends . ''
Godfrey had been due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TiOptions Cup at Silverstone , in Northamptonshire , later this year .
Leicestershire Police have confirmed that they were called to an `` organised racing event '' at Donnington at around 11.20am on Sunday and that one person had died after an incident .

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A British Superbike star has tragically died after a fatal collision at a Midlands track.
Ben Godfrey sadly passed away on Sunday, June 21, after being involved in a crash with a fellow biker.
Godfrey, aged just 25, collided with another motorbike at the No Limits Trackday yesterday.
The event was being held at Castle Donington, in Leicestershire, in the East Midlands.
The company behind the event confirmed on Twitter and Instagram: "Tragically (Ben) suffered serious injuries and despite immediate medical assistance trackside, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after."
Director Mark Neate said: "I am so desperately sad that Ben died from the injuries he sustained.
"Ben really was a fantastic young man and friends with so many people in the paddock, he was always smiling and had time for everyone.
"He was very excited for the start of the season and had taken part in many trackdays in the last month. Our thoughts are with his family, his partner Jordan and his team mates and friends."
Godfrey had been due to represent Team BGR in the Ducati TiOptions Cup at Silverstone, in Northamptonshire, later this year.
Leicestershire Police have confirmed that they were called to an "organised racing event" at Donnington at around 11.20am on Sunday and that one person had died after an incident.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Aston Villa fan chat room - What Dean Smith must change Q&A

Aston Villa were passed off the park against Chelsea with defeat stretching their run of ill-fated form to just one victory in six long months .
Dean Smith has since come in for heavy criticism after appearing to abandon his philosophies of playing with an attacking intent .
Now , is that a sign of a manager who 's beginning to question himself or has he decided to make Aston Villa a tougher team to beat ?
Smith 's reluctance to really go for it and play two up front could yet cost Villa their Premier League status .
OK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a tough day at the office but , with Newcastle United up next , where do Villa go from here ?
Club writer Ashley Preece was inside Villa Park for the 120-second collapse on Sunday and , since then , has spoken to Smith twice via Zoom about the performance and Villa 's survival hopes .
Ashley will host today 's AVFC chat room from 1pm .
We want supporters to set the agenda going into Wednesday 's must-win trip to the North East .
Quickly sign in , at the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points across .
Aston Villa webchat - how to get involved Hello !
At Birmingham Live , we are keen to give the fans as much opportunity to discuss the beautiful game as much as possible .
That is why we have decided to launch a brand new webchat forum , which allows supporters to interact with both our writers and each other .
At several points every week , we will be opening up our webchats , with opportunities to take part in live Q & As about transfers and tactics , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your opinions about the end of the Premier League season with your fellow fans .
With no fans allowed at stadiums , we want to replicate that community feel here .
Talking , and keeping in touch , has never been more important .
If you want to take part in these chats , all you have to do is follow these four simple steps to register .
1 .
Write your message in the box and either press enter or click on the blue marker , as shown below .
2 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ appear , where you can either sign-in if you already have an account , or register if you do not have an account .
3 .
When you click 'register ' , this box will appear .
Once you have entered your details , you can click 'create account ' to confirm .
4 .
And now you 're ready to take part in the chat , with your username initials appearing at the bottom left-hand side of the page .
It really is that simple .
Remember : you have to sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want our discussions to be polite , civil and considerate .
Enjoy .
Should Smith take the shackles off and go with two upfront ?
Does John McGinn need taking out after two games in four days ?
What about Jack Grealish , how can Villa get the best out of him ?
Would you stick with Keinan Davis to lead the line or does Mbwana Samatta deserve a crack ?
There 's lots to discuss with just eight games left .
Remember , games are coming thick and fast now and , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season will all be over for another year - will Villa be a Premier League team ?
Right now , Smith is taking his club back down to the Championship and that needs to change .
Do n't be late , remember today 's web chat kicks off at 1pm and , while you wait , be sure to check out all of the latest content around Villa on the BirminghamLive website .
And if the chat is n't loading on your screen , please click here .
See you soon .

Aston Villa were hit with a quick one-two punch on Sunday that they struggled to recover from.
The Villans, frankly, were passed off the park against Chelsea. Their last victory, a stunning late win over Watford, seems like it happened eons ago.
It seems a far cry from the setup Dean Smith deployed at the start of the season, and now his side head into a must-win match tonight against Newcastle.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news . Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Smith has since come in for heavy criticism after appearing to abandon his philosophies of playing with an attacking intent.
Now, is that a sign of a manager who's beginning to question himself or has he decided to make Aston Villa a tougher team to beat?
Ahead of tonight's Newcastle clash, Villa club writer Ashley Preece and Midlands Editor Mat Kendrick took your key questions on board, and answered them after spending time on a number of Zoom calls with the Villa gaffer pre-and-post-Chelsea.
Are Villa showing too much respect to their opposition? Is it time for Jack Grealish to return to central midfield? Do Villa need to play two strikers up front?
Supporters set the agenda for the Q&A, and you can read it in full close to the bottom of the page.
We've also picked out a few key questions below:
Q: Hi there, since the beginning of the season, Villa players seem to give too much respect to opposition. When will we stop settling for mediocre performances?
AP: I think you're right. Villa aren't blessed with a midfield bruiser and, at times, have been too nice to the opposition - especially given the fact they're scrapping for their lives. It's interesting from Smith who's said next two games are "pivotal". If it's 0 points from Newcastle and Wolves, will he believe that's it?
Q: Should start by being able to defend set pieces. With Smith a centre half and JT our defending should be better what are they doing at Bodymoor??
MK: As for the JT thing, it is disturbing that Smith and Terry, as former centre halves, aren't doing more to get players to close down quicker, stop crosses and take control in and around their own box. If this defensive set up is something the coaching team want to persist with, they at least need to ensure it is done well.
AP: I should have pushed Smith more on whether or not his squad up to the task. He'll undoubtedly back them. With my fan hat on, Sunday must have been such a depressing watch. It was basically a passing exercise for Chelsea and it wasn't good enough. Even the most rose-tinted-wearing supporters must be alarmed. That said, Wednesday is must-win. It's the well-oiled Wolves machine after that. Gulp.
Q: Midfield is being bypassed every game so I reckon if they move to a 4-4-1-1 with two out-and-out wingers(Trezeguet and Anwar) with Douglas Luiz and a fit McGinn in the middle and Jack roaming behind Samatta. Would protect the fullbacks better and give us some much needed width?
AP: I think it's time for Jack to revert back into the middle, especially against far superior opposition. Get him in amongst the likes of Neves and Pogba as opposed to being stuck out wide where he's rarely got a kick over the last two games.
MK: Something needs to change, but I would be concerned with starting Trezeguet AND El Ghazi at the moment when I think both of them are struggling to justify their places
We'll be hosting a regular set of discussions on BirminghamLive involving Q&A sessions with Ashley and Mat, so be sure you're involved in time for the next one.
Now, the attention moves ahead to Newcastle. If points aren't picked up, the scrutiny will only heat up on a failing Aston Villa side.
If the chat isn't loading on your screen, please click here.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Government set to expand 'social bubbles' in huge shake-up

Boris Johnson is poised to announce a big shake-up to the current rules over `` social bubbles '' .
Tomorrow will see the Prime Minister address the country having spoken with senior ministers at Number 10 Downing Street today .
The PM will ease the lockdown even further from July 4 , re-opening pubs , restaurants , cafes and bars , as well as giving hotels the chance to re-open .
The Daily Telegraph reports there are also plans for a change to `` support bubbles '' too , with the two-metre social distancing rule also under review .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bubble '' in two households , as long as one of them lived on their own .
The rules came into practice in mid-June , but are now subject to change .
A senior government source told the Daily Telegraph : `` There will be an expansion of social bubbles , but the details are still being finalised . ''
According to the report , one option being mooted is the idea of two households joining together - with no limit on numbers .
A second option is set to be allowing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but with a cap on the overall number of people in each bubble .
A source told the Telegraph : `` The question with bubbles has always been how you help families reunite to the maximum possible extent without too much risk .
`` The scientists ' main concern has always been infections spreading from one household to another , which is why this is one of the more difficult decisions we have to take . ''

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Boris Johnson is poised to announce a big shake-up to the current rules over "social bubbles".
Tomorrow will see the Prime Minister address the country having spoken with senior ministers at Number 10 Downing Street today.
The PM will ease the lockdown even further from July 4, re-opening pubs, restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as giving hotels the chance to re-open.
The Daily Telegraph reports there are also plans for a change to "support bubbles" too, with the two-metre social distancing rule also under review.
The PM previously permitted people to "socially bubble" in two households, as long as one of them lived on their own.
The rules came into practice in mid-June, but are now subject to change.
A senior government source told the Daily Telegraph: "There will be an expansion of social bubbles, but the details are still being finalised."
According to the report, one option being mooted is the idea of two households joining together - with no limit on numbers.
A second option is set to be allowing a bubble of any number of households, but with a cap on the overall number of people in each bubble.
A source told the Telegraph: "The question with bubbles has always been how you help families reunite to the maximum possible extent without too much risk.
"The scientists' main concern has always been infections spreading from one household to another, which is why this is one of the more difficult decisions we have to take."


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Couple moves into dream home to find 160,000 bees living in it

A couple felt stung after moving into their dream home - and finding a swarm of 160,000 BEES living in the chimney .
The previous owner had bricked up the fireplace before selling the £400,000 property in Parkside , Groby , Leics .
When the couple moved in last week , they noticed thousands of bees inside the living room .
Incredibly , inside the chimney were more than 160,000 bees and a whopping 15ft-long honeycomb .
The couple were quoted more than £3,000 to remove the swarm but beekeeper Peter Clarke agreed a cut-price rate to relocate them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gently sucking the bees from the four-bedroom detached house using a vacuum cleaner .
He has been loading the bees into containers and driving them to a farm in nearby Market Bosworth where they will make their new hives .
Since uncovering the vast swarm last week , Peter has rescued 54,000 bees and suffered more than 160 stings .
He says he is in a race against time to recover the queen and relocate her in order for the hive to function normally .
Dad-of-one Peter , 55 , said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this in the seven years since I ’ ve been doing this .
“ When I pulled away the first five or six bricks inside the chimney and saw all the honeycombe , larvae and eggs , it was an amazing feeling .
“ I have been using a hoover to suck the bees out .
I developed it a while ago .
“ Basically it ’ s a box I ’ ve put on the back of the vacuum cleaner and the bees go straight into the box so they can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always very careful with the bees .
If I even accidentally kill one it breaks my heart .
“ I ’ m expecting to collect more than 160,000 bees from this site which is a record for me .
“ The bees are protected creatures but if they are causing harm or distress it ’ s legal to spray them and kill them .
“ I hate the idea of that so I just need to find the queen to ensure the hive will survive.
” Peter explained the previous owner of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the swarm .
He said : “ The couple who bought the house were from London and bought it as is last October .
“ They had planned to do lots of renovations and when they came up last week the neighbour asked them what they were going to do about the bees .
“ It was the first they ’ d heard about the bees but when they went inside the living room was swarming with thousands of them .
“ Apparently the previous owner had just bricked up the fireplace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I agreed with the couple to relocate them for a discounted rate .
I ’ ve managed to get the bees moved to several hives at a farm nearby .
”

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A couple felt stung after moving into their dream home - and finding a swarm of 160,000 BEES living in the chimney.
The previous owner had bricked up the fireplace before selling the £400,000 property in Parkside, Groby, Leics.
When the couple moved in last week, they noticed thousands of bees inside the living room.
Incredibly, inside the chimney were more than 160,000 bees and a whopping 15ft-long honeycomb.
The couple were quoted more than £3,000 to remove the swarm but beekeeper Peter Clarke agreed a cut-price rate to relocate them to a nearby farm.
Peter is now gently sucking the bees from the four-bedroom detached house using a vacuum cleaner.
He has been loading the bees into containers and driving them to a farm in nearby Market Bosworth where they will make their new hives.
Since uncovering the vast swarm last week, Peter has rescued 54,000 bees and suffered more than 160 stings.
(Image: Peter Clarke / SWNS)
He says he is in a race against time to recover the queen and relocate her in order for the hive to function normally.
Dad-of-one Peter, 55, said: “I’ve not seen anything like this in the seven years since I’ve been doing this.
“When I pulled away the first five or six bricks inside the chimney and saw all the honeycombe, larvae and eggs, it was an amazing feeling.
(Image: Peter Clarke / SWNS)
“I have been using a hoover to suck the bees out. I developed it a while ago.
“Basically it’s a box I’ve put on the back of the vacuum cleaner and the bees go straight into the box so they can be safely transported.
“I’m always very careful with the bees. If I even accidentally kill one it breaks my heart.
(Image: Peter Clarke / SWNS)
“I’m expecting to collect more than 160,000 bees from this site which is a record for me.
“The bees are protected creatures but if they are causing harm or distress it’s legal to spray them and kill them.
“I hate the idea of that so I just need to find the queen to ensure the hive will survive.”
Peter explained the previous owner of the house sold up without informing the buyers about the swarm.
He said: “The couple who bought the house were from London and bought it as is last October.
“They had planned to do lots of renovations and when they came up last week the neighbour asked them what they were going to do about the bees.
(Image: Peter Clarke / SWNS)
“It was the first they’d heard about the bees but when they went inside the living room was swarming with thousands of them.
“Apparently the previous owner had just bricked up the fireplace without telling anyone about the swarm.
“I agreed with the couple to relocate them for a discounted rate. I’ve managed to get the bees moved to several hives at a farm nearby.”


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Police searching for 'vulnerable' missing man

Police have launched an appeal to find a missing Stourport-on-Severn man .
They have asked for the public 's help @ @ @ @ @ they say is `` extremely vulnerable at the moment '' .
The 32-year-old was last @ @ @ @ @ Stourport , at 6.30am on Monday , June 22 .
West Mercia Police said : @ @ @ @ @ at the moment and his family and officers are very concerned for his welfare .
@ @ @ @ @ be making his way towards the Blackstone area , or the Rifle Range Nature Reserve @ @ @ @ @ with short dark hair and a beard .
He is 5ft 9ins tall and wearing @ @ @ @ @ hoodie , grey Adidas tracksuit bottoms and black/blue trainers .
Anyone who has seen Kyle @ @ @ @ @ his whereabouts is asked to call the police on 101 , quoting log 057s of @ @ @

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Police have launched an appeal to find a missing Stourport-on-Severn man.
They have asked for the public's help in finding Kyle McLeod-Finch who they say is "extremely vulnerable at the moment".
The 32-year-old was last seen in Worth Crescent, Stourport, at 6.30am on Monday, June 22.
West Mercia Police said: "Kyle is extremely vulnerable at the moment and his family and officers are very concerned for his welfare."
He is believed to be making his way towards the Blackstone area, or the Rifle Range Nature Reserve.
Kyle is white, with short dark hair and a beard. He is 5ft 9ins tall and wearing a white and grey camouflaged hoodie, grey Adidas tracksuit bottoms and black/blue trainers.
Anyone who has seen Kyle or have any information about his whereabouts is asked to call the police on 101, quoting log 057s of 22 June.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Phil awkwardly hints at breaking the law in This Morning admission

This is the moment Phillip Schofield hinted at breaking the law with a cheeky admission on This Morning .
The This Morning presenter was back in the studio to host the first episode of the week today .
On Monday June 22 , silver-haired Schofe was presenting the show alongside Davina McCall .
Davina stepped in to replace Holly Willoughby , 39 , while the mum-of-three took her children to school .
During Monday 's show , Phil hinted at underage drinking during an open and honest chat with Davina .
`` I was 17 - and then 18 ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bar , '' Phil began .
`` The BBC club was in there .
I started work as a bookings clerk in Broadcasting House and there was a club over on the other side of the road from Broadcasting House .
The BBC club was over the road .
`` It is much posher now . ''
He continued : `` I was definitely eighteen . ''
`` Oh my goodness , very posh , '' she said , having stepped in to replace Holly for the first episode of the week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morning airs at 10am each weekday and it remains to be seen whether Holly returns for Tuesday 's show or Davina steps in again .

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This is the moment Phillip Schofield hinted at breaking the law with a cheeky admission on This Morning.
The This Morning presenter was back in the studio to host the first episode of the week today.
On Monday June 22, silver-haired Schofe was presenting the show alongside Davina McCall.
Davina stepped in to replace Holly Willoughby, 39, while the mum-of-three took her children to school.
During Monday's show, Phil hinted at underage drinking during an open and honest chat with Davina.
"I was 17 - and then 18... because I am about to talk about a bar," Phil began.
"The BBC club was in there. I started work as a bookings clerk in Broadcasting House and there was a club over on the other side of the road from Broadcasting House. The BBC club was over the road.
"It is much posher now."
He continued: "I was definitely eighteen."
Davina laughed as Phil looked awkward.
"Oh my goodness, very posh," she said, having stepped in to replace Holly for the first episode of the week on Monday, June 22.
This Morning airs at 10am each weekday and it remains to be seen whether Holly returns for Tuesday's show or Davina steps in again.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Woman flees to pizza shop after being stabbed – four arrested

A terrified woman ran into a pizza shop after being stabbed at a nearby flat .
Police were called after a member of the public found the 25-year-old wounded inside No1 Pizza in Walsall at around 10.20pm on Sunday , June 22 .
Bridge Street was sealed for around ten hours overnight .
The woman was treated for potentially serious injuries at hospital and was later discharged .
The scene remained cordoned off this morning , Monday , June 22 , and investigations were ongoing , a West Midlands Police spokesman said .
Four men , aged 24 , 26 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on suspicion of wounding and possession of intent to supply cannabis .
The 26-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer .
A spokesman for the police added : `` We have arrested four men following reports of a woman suffering knife wounds in Bridge Street , Walsall , at about 10.20pm last night , Sunday .
`` Officers were flagged down by a member of the public and found a 25-year-old woman injured in a pizza shop , following an alleged incident at a nearby flat .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 28 and 38 were arrested on suspicion of wounding and possession of intent to supply cannabis .
`` The 26-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer .
`` All four men remain in police custody this morning for questioning as enquiries continue . ''
Anyone with information can contact us , quoting crime number 20WS/143511Y/20 , via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk , 8am to midnight , or call 101 anytime .

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A terrified woman ran into a pizza shop after being stabbed at a nearby flat.
Police were called after a member of the public found the 25-year-old wounded inside No1 Pizza in Walsall at around 10.20pm on Sunday, June 22.
Bridge Street was sealed for around ten hours overnight.
The woman was treated for potentially serious injuries at hospital and was later discharged.
The scene remained cordoned off this morning, Monday, June 22, and investigations were ongoing, a West Midlands Police spokesman said.
Four men, aged 24, 26, 28 and 38, were arrested on suspicion of wounding and possession of intent to supply cannabis.
The 26-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.
A spokesman for the police added: "We have arrested four men following reports of a woman suffering knife wounds in Bridge Street, Walsall, at about 10.20pm last night, Sunday.
"Officers were flagged down by a member of the public and found a 25-year-old woman injured in a pizza shop, following an alleged incident at a nearby flat.
"Four men aged 24, 26, 28 and 38 were arrested on suspicion of wounding and possession of intent to supply cannabis.
"The 26-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.
"All four men remain in police custody this morning for questioning as enquiries continue."
Anyone with information can contact us, quoting crime number 20WS/143511Y/20, via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk, 8am to midnight, or call 101 anytime.
To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Murder investigation after man, 30, stabbed to death in Great Barr

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a knife victim was stabbed to death in Great Barr .
Police were called after trouble broke out on Cardington Avenue just after 9pm on Sunday , June 21 .
They found a 30-year-old man with severe injuries to his neck .
Despite the best efforts of paramedics , he was pronounced dead at the scene .
His family has been informed and were being supported by specialist officers .
Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have dash-cam CCTV of a fight which broke out in Alma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in police custody this morning , Monday 22 June , 22 , as enquiries continued .
Det Insp Jim Colclough , from the force CID team , said : “ We ’ d like to hear from anyone who has any information on what happened last night that led to a young man losing his life .
“ We understand there may have been an incident earlier on in the evening on Newbury Road near to Alma Street involving the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speak to anyone who noticed anything suspicious or who has any dash-cam footage of a fight.
” West Midlands Ambulance Service said : “ We were called to reports of a stabbing on Cardington Avenue in Great Barr and just after 9pm on Sunday evening .
“ Two ambulances , a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma team including two doctors and a critical care paramedic were sent to the scene .
“ Unfortunately , despite advanced care , it was not possible to save the man and he was confirmed dead at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cordon while a blue tent has been set up outside a house .
Forensics officers are examining the scene , carrying bags of evidence , taking pictures .
A number of markers have been placed around the blue tent .
An officer was also spotted checking alleyways behind properties .
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets .
So it 's important to know what 's going on and what is being done about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system .
Large , highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings .
You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article , which looks like this : It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts .
We also have a free app which you can download @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store A local man who witnessed the aftermath of the incident last night .
He said : “ There were lots of armed police , critical care and the air ambulance car .
Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or call 101 anytime .
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote crime number 20BW/143529D/20 .

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A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a knife victim was stabbed to death in Great Barr.
Police were called after trouble broke out on Cardington Avenue just after 9pm on Sunday, June 21. They found a 30-year-old man with severe injuries to his neck.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
His family has been informed and were being supported by specialist officers.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have dash-cam CCTV of a fight which broke out in Alma Street, Newtown, to contact them.
A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in police custody this morning, Monday, June 22 as enquiries continued.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Det Insp Jim Colclough, from the force CID team, said: “We’d like to hear from anyone who has any information on what happened last night that led to a young man losing his life.
“We understand there may have been an incident earlier on in the evening on Newbury Road near to Alma Street involving the same people and we’d like to speak to anyone who noticed anything suspicious or who has any dash-cam footage of a fight.”
West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “We were called to reports of a stabbing on Cardington Avenue in Great Barr and just after 9pm on Sunday evening.
“Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma team including two doctors and a critical care paramedic were sent to the scene. “Unfortunately, despite advanced care, it was not possible to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”
Police teams are manning the cordon while a blue tent has been set up outside a house.
Forensics officers are examining the scene, carrying bags of evidence, taking pictures.
A number of markers have been placed around the blue tent.
An officer was also spotted checking alleyways behind properties.
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets. So it's important to know what's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system. Large, highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings. You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter. Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article. It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts. We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region. Find it on Google Play Store and App Store
A local man who witnessed the aftermath of the incident last night.
He said: “There were lots of armed police, critical care and the air ambulance car.
“We saw a young man receiving urgent care.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime.
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime number 20BW/143529D/20.


birminghammail--2020-06-22--Many people 'struggling to pay for food and heating' due to lockdown

Coronavirus and the lockdown have `` left many people struggling to cover the basic costs of food and bills '' , MPs say .
A cross-party inquiry by MPs including Steve McCabe , Labour MP for Birmingham Selly Oak , and Shaun Bailey , Conservative MP for West Bromwich West , said the Government had helped some people whose incomes had been cut - but had ignored others who are desperately in need of support .
MPs on the Commons Work and Pensions Committee praised the Government for acting quickly by increasing the rate of Universal Credit and Working Tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But they urged Ministers to raise the rates of older benefits in a similar way .
Many people are still claiming so-called legacy benefits because they have not yet moved on to Universal Credit , and these include people with disabillities .
The Committee also called on the government to review the `` no recourse to public funds '' rule , which prevents thousands of people who live and work in the UK legally from claiming benefits and receiving access to financial support , because of their immigration status .
Some have children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Children ’ s Society has estimated that the number affected exceeds 1 million people , and includes at least 100,000 children .
The MPs pointed out that some of those affected are `` key workers and front-line medical staff '' .
The Commmittee said it had heard evidence that coronavirus has increased living costs for disabled people .
In a survey of 224 disabled people in April , the Disability Benefits Consortium reported that 95 % of people surveyed had experienced a rise in costs for food , utilities and managing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised the rates of standard Universal Credit and basic Working Tax Credits by £20 a week for 12 months , people on older benefits including Jobseekers Allowance , Employment Support Allowance and Child Tax Credits , have not been similarly helped .
MPs said the Government had said this can not be done for `` operational reasons '' .
Mr McCabe said : `` For a government that says it is interesting in levelling up and closing thegap , what our inquiry revealed is that it has embedded and repeated the gap .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to raise legacy benefits , what they are saying is it 's alright to perpetuate the gap .
`` It can not be impossible to raise legacy benefits .
What they mean is it 's not a priority because they are focused on Universal Credit . ''
Referring to the `` no recourse to public funds '' rule , he said : `` I do n't understand how it can be alright to work and die in the NHS but not to get any support if you take ill or a member of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stephen Timms said : `` The Department for Work and Pensions ' frontline staff have worked hard to get support to millions of people .
Without their actions , the impact of the pandemic could have been much worse .
But the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted weaknesses in a social security system which at times is too inflexible and slow to adapt to support people in times of crisis . ''
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said : “ We rolled out measures that could be quickly and effectively put into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most financial disruption .
“ There have been more than 2.4 million new claims for Universal Credit since 16 March and the system has stood up to the test in a way which the paper-based legacy benefit system could not have , ensuring around 90 % of people are paid in full and on time .
“ We have made a number of changes to legacy and other working age benefits , such as increasing certain entitlements such as Local Housing Allowance , and introduced a range of additional measures to provide financial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including those with no recourse to public funds .
”

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Coronavirus and the lockdown have "left many people struggling to cover the basic costs of food and bills", MPs say.
A cross-party inquiry by MPs including Steve McCabe, Labour MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, and Shaun Bailey, Conservative MP for West Bromwich West, said the Government had helped some people whose incomes had been cut - but had ignored others who are desperately in need of support.
MPs on the Commons Work and Pensions Committee praised the Government for acting quickly by increasing the rate of Universal Credit and Working Tax Credit to help people in need. But they urged Ministers to raise the rates of older benefits in a similar way.
Many people are still claiming so-called legacy benefits because they have not yet moved on to Universal Credit, and these include people with disabillities.
The Committee also called on the government to review the "no recourse to public funds" rule, which prevents thousands of people who live and work in the UK legally from claiming benefits and receiving access to financial support, because of their immigration status. Some have children who were born in the UK.
The Children’s Society has estimated that the number affected exceeds 1 million people, and includes at least 100,000 children. The MPs pointed out that some of those affected are "key workers and front-line medical staff".
The Commmittee said it had heard evidence that coronavirus has increased living costs for disabled people. In a survey of 224 disabled people in April, the Disability Benefits Consortium reported that 95% of people surveyed had experienced a rise in costs for food, utilities and managing their health.
But while the Government has raised the rates of standard Universal Credit and basic Working Tax Credits by £20 a week for 12 months, people on older benefits including Jobseekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance and Child Tax Credits, have not been similarly helped. MPs said the Government had said this cannot be done for "operational reasons".
Mr McCabe said: "For a government that says it is interesting in levelling up and closing thegap, what our inquiry revealed is that it has embedded and repeated the gap.
"By saying it's too complicated to raise legacy benefits, what they are saying is it's alright to perpetuate the gap.
"It cannot be impossible to raise legacy benefits. What they mean is it's not a priority because they are focused on Universal Credit."
Referring to the "no recourse to public funds" rule, he said: "I don't understand how it can be alright to work and die in the NHS but not to get any support if you take ill or a member of your family takes ill."
Committee chair Stephen Timms said: "The Department for Work and Pensions' frontline staff have worked hard to get support to millions of people. Without their actions, the impact of the pandemic could have been much worse. But the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted weaknesses in a social security system which at times is too inflexible and slow to adapt to support people in times of crisis."
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: “We rolled out measures that could be quickly and effectively put into place and that benefited those facing the most financial disruption.
“There have been more than 2.4 million new claims for Universal Credit since 16 March and the system has stood up to the test in a way which the paper-based legacy benefit system could not have, ensuring around 90% of people are paid in full and on time.
“We have made a number of changes to legacy and other working age benefits, such as increasing certain entitlements such as Local Housing Allowance, and introduced a range of additional measures to provide financial protection for those affected by COVID-19, including those with no recourse to public funds.”