birminghammail--2020-06-27--Toby Carvery customers banned from piling own plate as restaurants reopen

If you 're a fan of a Sunday roast , then you 're in for some bad news if you head to a carvery each weekend .
Toby Carvery is a go-to for many Brummies , but the carvery chain is set to make some massive changes when it re-opens .
The government is easing the lockdown from next Saturday , allowing pubs , restaurants , hotels and bars to re-open .
Hairdressers can also start re-operating , albeit with strict new rules , as the government issues guidelines to get businesses back on their feet .
Carveries will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anybody dining will be unable to load their own plates as they are used to .
Piling your plate high with roast potatoes , cuts of lamb , beef or chicken , lashings of gravy and Yorkshire puddings will be a thing of the past .
A Toby Carvery spokesperson said : `` We ’ re delighted to say that guests will still be able to enjoy their favourite roast just the way they like it , but we will reopen our carvery deck with our chefs serving the roast meats , vegetables @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Toby breakfast will be served for guests by our chefs in the same way .
`` Tables and the space around the carvery deck will observe the safe distancing guidance and we will ensure rigorous standards of cleanliness with hand sanitiser stations throughout the restaurant.
” Customers will be greeted at the door and asked to use hand sanitiser on the way in .
The pub will have a similar ordering system for drinks , either via text or old-fashioned pen and paper .

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If you're a fan of a Sunday roast, then you're in for some bad news if you head to a carvery each weekend.
Toby Carvery is a go-to for many Brummies, but the carvery chain is set to make some massive changes when it re-opens.
The government is easing the lockdown from next Saturday, allowing pubs, restaurants, hotels and bars to re-open.
Hairdressers can also start re-operating, albeit with strict new rules, as the government issues guidelines to get businesses back on their feet.
Carveries will be opened by Toby next week - but anybody dining will be unable to load their own plates as they are used to.
Piling your plate high with roast potatoes, cuts of lamb, beef or chicken, lashings of gravy and Yorkshire puddings will be a thing of the past.
A Toby Carvery spokesperson said: "We’re delighted to say that guests will still be able to enjoy their favourite roast just the way they like it, but we will reopen our carvery deck with our chefs serving the roast meats, vegetables and accompaniments.
"Similarly the famous Toby breakfast will be served for guests by our chefs in the same way.
"Tables and the space around the carvery deck will observe the safe distancing guidance and we will ensure rigorous standards of cleanliness with hand sanitiser stations throughout the restaurant.”
(Image: Jonathan Hipkiss / BirminghamLie)
Customers will be greeted at the door and asked to use hand sanitiser on the way in.
The pub will have a similar ordering system for drinks, either via text or old-fashioned pen and paper.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Celtic plan shock move for Birmingham City hero Joe Hart

Celtic have made a move to land former Birmingham City loan star Joe Hart , according to reports .
The Burnley keeper , who will be a free agent at the end of the season , has been linked with numerous clubs , including Leeds United .
But Record Sport suggest that Parkhead bosses are in talks with Hart about a summer switch .
Blues fans on social media remain keen for the former Manchester City number one to return to St Andrew ’ s , after his stunning loan spell earlier in his career .
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Google Play Store and App Store Back in 2009 , he helped Blues to a ninth-placed Premier League finish - their highest to date - after making 41 appearances in all competitions .
On the back of his time in the Second City , Hart would return to Man City and break into the side under Roberto Mancini , and in doing so he helped them to two Premier League titles , all the while as England ’ s number one .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ under Pep Guardiola , Hart has been in search for regular , first-team football .
Earlier this month , Burnley confirmed they would allow the stopper to leave the club and it is claimed Neil Lennon sees him as a potential replacement for Fraser Forster .
Blues could also be on the lookout for a new keeper in the summer , with Lee Camp ’ s contract set to expire .

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birminghammail--2020-06-27--Brum braced for thunderstorms and lightning as heatwave ends

Birmingham was bracing itself for thunderstorms and lightning today ( Saturday ) as the UK 's record-breaking heatwave came to an abrupt end .
The latest BBC forecast showed that temperatures will drop by nearly 15C this weekend , following sweltering heat throughout this week .
Birmingham today ( Saturday ) will see sharp showers breaking out today with a risk of thunderstorms .
The evening could see thunder and lightning .
Temperatures will also plunge to 14C .
On Thursday , the UK experienced its hottest day of the year so far when the temperature rose to 33.4C ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London .
Birmingham enjoyed highs of 31C .
However , temperatures could sink to 14C today and it will be even colder on Sunday , according to the latest forecast .
The Met Office warned that up to 50mm of rain could fall in an hour in some regions .
The Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said : “ Not everyone will see a storm , but if you catch one , you will certainly know about it.
” Sunday will also be mixed with periods of sunshine but also a good chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of thunderstorms .
Temperatures could also reach a low of 14C .
There was a yellow weather warning in place until 9am today ( Saturday ) for Birmingham .
Another yellow weather warning for rain is in place for Scotland and Northern Ireland between 9am and 10pm on Saturday , with the Met Office saying up to 20mm of rain could fall per hour in some areas .

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Birmingham was bracing itself for thunderstorms and lightning today (Saturday) as the UK's record-breaking heatwave came to an abrupt end.
The latest BBC forecast showed that temperatures will drop by nearly 15C this weekend, following sweltering heat throughout this week.
Birmingham today (Saturday) will see sharp showers breaking out today with a risk of thunderstorms.
The evening could see thunder and lightning. Temperatures will also plunge to 14C.
(Image: GETTY IMAGES)
On Thursday, the UK experienced its hottest day of the year so far when the temperature rose to 33.4C (92.1F) at Heathrow airport in west London. Birmingham enjoyed highs of 31C.
However, temperatures could sink to 14C today and it will be even colder on Sunday, according to the latest forecast.
The Met Office warned that up to 50mm of rain could fall in an hour in some regions.
The Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said: “Not everyone will see a storm, but if you catch one, you will certainly know about it.”
Sunday will also be mixed with periods of sunshine but also a good chance of sharp showers breaking out with a risk of thunderstorms.
Temperatures could also reach a low of 14C.
There was a yellow weather warning in place until 9am today (Saturday) for Birmingham.
Another yellow weather warning for rain is in place for Scotland and Northern Ireland between 9am and 10pm on Saturday, with the Met Office saying up to 20mm of rain could fall per hour in some areas.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Footage shows police box in car on M5 and find 'secret drug compartment'

This is the moment undercover police cars swooped to box in a driver on a major motorway through Worcestershire .
Dramatic footage was captured as two unmarked police vehicles closed in on the silver Volkswagen Tiguan on the M5 on Friday night , June 26 .
In the dashcam clip , cops can be seen boxing in the motorist between J7 and J8 near Worcester shortly before 10pm .
As one officer presses on in front of the suspect to slow them , a second forces the driver onto the hard shoulder from the right side .
No contact was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the driver eventually parked up on the hard shoulder - where the vehicle was searched by officers and a police dog .
Police said a secret compartment containing a quantity of drugs was uncovered by the canine during the search .
It is believed the drugs were being transported via the busy motorway network into Gloucester .
The occupants were detained and 'dealt with ' , officers added .
OPU Worcestershire shared the above footage to Twitter and said : `` # TPAC boxing tactic completed on vehicle M5 SB 7-8 believed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Excellent work by PD Burt who found a secret compartment inside the vehicle containing a quantity of drugs .

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This is the moment undercover police cars swooped to box in a driver on a major motorway through Worcestershire.
Dramatic footage was captured as two unmarked police vehicles closed in on the silver Volkswagen Tiguan on the M5 on Friday night, June 26.
In the dashcam clip, cops can be seen boxing in the motorist between J7 and J8 near Worcester shortly before 10pm.
As one officer presses on in front of the suspect to slow them, a second forces the driver onto the hard shoulder from the right side.
No contact was made during the 'nearside box' and the driver eventually parked up on the hard shoulder - where the vehicle was searched by officers and a police dog.
Police said a secret compartment containing a quantity of drugs was uncovered by the canine during the search.
It is believed the drugs were being transported via the busy motorway network into Gloucester.
The occupants were detained and 'dealt with', officers added.
OPU Worcestershire shared the above footage to Twitter and said: "#TPAC boxing tactic completed on vehicle M5 SB 7-8 believed to be transported drugs to Gloucester.
"Excellent work by PD Burt who found a secret compartment inside the vehicle containing a quantity of drugs.
"Occupants detained and dealt with appropriately @K999Cops D Shift."


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Krovinovic sends Bilic reminder as Grosicki's Albion wait goes on

Brentford narrowly saw off a below par West Brom side at Griffin Park on Friday night to blow the promotion race wide open .
Ollie Watkins slid home the only goal of the game on 16 minutes after a low cross from Josh Dasilva to close the gap at the top with seven matches still to play .
The play was frantic , but the hosts appeared the sharper .
They took the lead when Albion were caught out in midfield and the ball came over to the left , and Said Benrahma .
The Algerian then slipped in Dasilva @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baggies defence and Watkins added the decisive touch .
Albion huffed and puffed from there , but David Raya had little to concern himself with ; Diangana , Romaine Sawyers and Matheus Pereira all had shots from range , but nothing that really worried the Bees goal .
The gap between the two sides is now five points , with seven matches to play and Leeds and Fulham to do battle on Saturday .
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It is always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Kamil Grosicki was conspicuous by his absence as he failed to make the match-day 20 for the second successive week .
For a man who offers so much by the way of experience , and electric pace in abundance , he seemed a sure-fire option to many , amid this era of five substitutions per team .
He can ’ t well do that if he ’ s not involved , though .
Asked by BirminghamLive about Grosicki ’ s whereabouts , Slaven Bilic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was merely stern competition and Grosicki will get his chance imminently .
That point is a fair one ; Albion have wingers in abundance , though whether Grosicki is ranked at the bottom of the pile is another debate entirely .
Filip Krovinovic was as neat and tidy as ever , and is one of a handful of players whose place in the side appears dependant on how they set-up .
In a deeper role alongside Livermore and Romaine Sawyers , it ’ s a combination that has worked previously .
His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gave Bilic just another selection dilemma to ponder .
Krovinovic perhaps suffered more than most in the Albion side upon the suspension of the season ; he was in the form of his loan spell before the unconquerable hurdle of a pandemic .
It ’ ll be interesting to see how he ’ s utilised in the run-in , for performances like this will act as extra food for thought .
“ The key thing is to not lose the game against them , but for that you have to score goals.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game was an encounter that Albion daren ’ t come out of empty handed , for fear of allowing the Bees ’ head of steam to continue building up .
Now that they ’ ve done so , it piles more pressure on the matches that Albion ought to be winning , on paper at least .
Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City are in dire straits , with out of contract stars walking away from each club in the last fortnight and leaving both clubs in the lurch .
Ideal opponents , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that Albion have probably forgotten what a goal feels like - not since Jake Livermore ’ s delightful effort against Preston more than five months ago have the Baggies caused the net to bulge in a league fixture .
What is best for Albion ?
It ’ s a key decision that Bilic is deliberating over at the moment , without firmly making his mind up .
This game here was a perfect example ; Albion struggled in midfield against Brentford ’ s three in the first half , as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Krovinovic at half time - and a rocket up the back-side , no doubt - sparked ripples , if not waves , of purposeful Albion play .
We ’ ve seen that 4-2-3-1 does work though , for Albion - it ’ s a major reason why they are where they are now .
Many moons ago Diangana and Pereira wreaked havoc on Championship defences with that set-up , and Matty Phillips bore the fruits of that too by often applying the finishing touch .
Diangana ’ s return is a major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though it means more work for the midfield pairing .

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Brentford narrowly saw off a below par West Brom side at Griffin Park on Friday night to blow the promotion race wide open.
Ollie Watkins slid home the only goal of the game on 16 minutes after a low cross from Josh Dasilva to close the gap at the top with seven matches still to play.
The play was frantic, but the hosts appeared the sharper. They took the lead when Albion were caught out in midfield and the ball came over to the left, and Said Benrahma.
The Algerian then slipped in Dasilva, whose low cross caught out the Baggies defence and Watkins added the decisive touch.
Albion huffed and puffed from there, but David Raya had little to concern himself with; Diangana, Romaine Sawyers and Matheus Pereira all had shots from range, but nothing that really worried the Bees goal.
The gap between the two sides is now five points, with seven matches to play and Leeds and Fulham to do battle on Saturday.
Here are the talking points.
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 .
Time for Turbo?
Kamil Grosicki was conspicuous by his absence as he failed to make the match-day 20 for the second successive week.
For a man who offers so much by the way of experience, and electric pace in abundance, he seemed a sure-fire option to many, amid this era of five substitutions per team.
He can’t well do that if he’s not involved, though.
Asked by BirminghamLive about Grosicki’s whereabouts, Slaven Bilic insisted that there was nothing untoward - it was merely stern competition and Grosicki will get his chance imminently.
That point is a fair one; Albion have wingers in abundance, though whether Grosicki is ranked at the bottom of the pile is another debate entirely.
Fil fancies it
Filip Krovinovic was as neat and tidy as ever, and is one of a handful of players whose place in the side appears dependant on how they set-up. In a deeper role alongside Livermore and Romaine Sawyers, it’s a combination that has worked previously.
His second half display here, too, gave Bilic just another selection dilemma to ponder.
Krovinovic perhaps suffered more than most in the Albion side upon the suspension of the season; he was in the form of his loan spell before the unconquerable hurdle of a pandemic.
It’ll be interesting to see how he’s utilised in the run-in, for performances like this will act as extra food for thought.
Time to step up
“The key thing is to not lose the game against them, but for that you have to score goals.”
Slaven Bilic admitted pre-match that the Brentford game was an encounter that Albion daren’t come out of empty handed, for fear of allowing the Bees’ head of steam to continue building up.
Now that they’ve done so, it piles more pressure on the matches that Albion ought to be winning, on paper at least.
Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City are in dire straits, with out of contract stars walking away from each club in the last fortnight and leaving both clubs in the lurch.
Ideal opponents, you’d imagine, but for the fact that Albion have probably forgotten what a goal feels like - not since Jake Livermore’s delightful effort against Preston more than five months ago have the Baggies caused the net to bulge in a league fixture.
(Image: Adam Fradgley/AMA)
The formation hokey cokey
What is best for Albion? It’s a key decision that Bilic is deliberating over at the moment, without firmly making his mind up.
This game here was a perfect example; Albion struggled in midfield against Brentford’s three in the first half, as part of a 4-2-3-1 formation, but the introduction of Krovinovic at half time - and a rocket up the back-side, no doubt - sparked ripples, if not waves, of purposeful Albion play.
We’ve seen that 4-2-3-1 does work though, for Albion - it’s a major reason why they are where they are now.
Many moons ago Diangana and Pereira wreaked havoc on Championship defences with that set-up, and Matty Phillips bore the fruits of that too by often applying the finishing touch.
Diangana’s return is a major factor in Bilic returning to that system, though it means more work for the midfield pairing.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Graham Linehan's Twitter account suspended over using banned words

Graham Linehan 's Glinner Twitter account has been suspended after he begged Mumsnet for help .
The Father Ted creator , who has previously been accused of holding transphobic views , has been suspended by the social media giant .
Linehan 's account on the social networking platform was axed by Twitter for violating the rules .
The IT Crowd creator has now appealed to Mumsnet users to help him get his account back .
He claims he was forced to delete a string of old tweets that had been reported by `` trans rights activists . ''
The writer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two years ago following a heated exchange with a transgender activist .
During the exchange , Stephanie Hayden claimed Linehan had 'deadnamed ' her and used incorrect pronouns .
Linehan 's removal from the social media platform has been met with mixed reaction , with several users praising Twitter for taking action against his views .
A Change.org petition set up to call for his axing had been signed by more than 5,700 people just days before Twitter took action .
Twitter is yet to comment on its decision to suspend the account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Katie Hopkins ' Twitter account , with the platform confirming she had been permanently banned .
It remains to be seen whether Linehan is allowed back on the site .

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Graham Linehan's Glinner Twitter account has been suspended after he begged Mumsnet for help.
The Father Ted creator, who has previously been accused of holding transphobic views, has been suspended by the social media giant.
Linehan's account on the social networking platform was axed by Twitter for violating the rules.
The IT Crowd creator has now appealed to Mumsnet users to help him get his account back.
He claims he was forced to delete a string of old tweets that had been reported by "trans rights activists."
The writer got a warning from West Yorkshire Police two years ago following a heated exchange with a transgender activist.
During the exchange, Stephanie Hayden claimed Linehan had 'deadnamed' her and used incorrect pronouns.
Linehan's removal from the social media platform has been met with mixed reaction, with several users praising Twitter for taking action against his views.
A Change.org petition set up to call for his axing had been signed by more than 5,700 people just days before Twitter took action.
Twitter is yet to comment on its decision to suspend the account.
It comes following the removal of Katie Hopkins' Twitter account, with the platform confirming she had been permanently banned.
It remains to be seen whether Linehan is allowed back on the site.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--' I hope we crush them' - Wolves fans whip up Villa clash

Aston Villa welcome West Midlands neighbours Wolverhampton Wanderers to Villa Park on Saturday as another opportunity for Dean Smith and his Lions to drag themselves out of the relegation zone presents itself .
Despite coming from behind , the draw at Newcastle United on Wednesday still felt like two points dropped , such was the quality of the chances that Villa created for themselves , without converting .
It means that they ’ ve taken only two points from their first three games back in action , but with Watford , Bournemouth , Norwich and West Ham all struggling just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are still very much in with a shout of survival .
There ’ s a small matter of a local derby this weekend , though , against a side who are keen on Champions League football next term - Wolves , along with Manchester United are right in the hunt for a top four place that Chelsea are currently holding onto .
This is what the Wanderers fans have been saying ahead of the Villa game , and what they make of their hosts .
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Google Play Store and App Store Sedgwolf1980 : Would like to see Adama terrorise them for the full 90 mins .
Nige100 : Dreading this game just don ’ t wan na get beat by these and have them climb out the brown stuff on the back of beating us .
Hereford Wolf : Well - two out of two so far since the restart so I ’ m going for the hat-trick .
I really , really want us to win this one .
Kenny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we swap Jota for Neto it doesn ’ t matter really .
Villa won ’ t play with numbers behind the ball so we should , in theory , get a hell of lot more space than we did in the last couple of games .
Deutsch Wolf : Of all the teams we have left to play , these are the one we could genuinely take apart .
They are appalling at the back .
Templeton Peck : Really can ’ t see anything other than a win .
They ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they will come and have a go at us .
I ’ d have been more cautious but without the crowd to lift them it ’ s hard to see anything in their favour .
Tony Towner : They have a quandary .
They need to get Grealish on the ball higher up the pitch than they are , but that leaves them more open .
Can see Smith going 5 at the back to try and do that .
Elmohamady will come in at wing back , Grealish as a 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games are usually a great leveller , but without a crowd it is much more difficult for Villa .
Despite that ( and the complete lack of confidence from their fans ) I would still take a draw .
They will not go down without a fight , 1-1 .
Paddington Wolf : There ’ s a place in the Champions League out there to be won ffs .
No mercy .
I hope we crush them .

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Aston Villa welcome West Midlands neighbours Wolverhampton Wanderers to Villa Park on Saturday as another opportunity for Dean Smith and his Lions to drag themselves out of the relegation zone presents itself.
Despite coming from behind, the draw at Newcastle United on Wednesday still felt like two points dropped, such was the quality of the chances that Villa created for themselves, without converting.
It means that they’ve taken only two points from their first three games back in action, but with Watford, Bournemouth, Norwich and West Ham all struggling just as much at this point, Villa are still very much in with a shout of survival.
There’s a small matter of a local derby this weekend, though, against a side who are keen on Champions League football next term - Wolves, along with Manchester United are right in the hunt for a top four place that Chelsea are currently holding onto.
This is what the Wanderers fans have been saying ahead of the Villa game, and what they make of their hosts.
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
Wolves fans on Villa clash
Sedgwolf1980 : Would like to see Adama terrorise them for the full 90 mins.
Nige100 : Dreading this game just don’t wanna get beat by these and have them climb out the brown stuff on the back of beating us.
Hereford Wolf: Well - two out of two so far since the restart so I’m going for the hat-trick. I really, really want us to win this one.
Kenny : The 3 up top. Whether we swap Jota for Neto it doesn’t matter really. Villa won’t play with numbers behind the ball so we should, in theory, get a hell of lot more space than we did in the last couple of games.
Deutsch Wolf: Of all the teams we have left to play, these are the one we could genuinely take apart. They are appalling at the back.
Templeton Peck : Really can’t see anything other than a win. They’re s*** at the back, dodgy keeper and they will come and have a go at us. I’d have been more cautious but without the crowd to lift them it’s hard to see anything in their favour.
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Tony Towner: They have a quandary. They need to get Grealish on the ball higher up the pitch than they are, but that leaves them more open. Can see Smith going 5 at the back to try and do that. Elmohamady will come in at wing back, Grealish as a 10
Dennison’s Wrong Foot: Derby games are usually a great leveller, but without a crowd it is much more difficult for Villa. Despite that (and the complete lack of confidence from their fans) I would still take a draw. They will not go down without a fight, 1-1.
Paddington Wolf: There’s a place in the Champions League out there to be won ffs. No mercy. I hope we crush them.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--The most-likely Aston Villa team Dean Smith will pick for Wolves

Aston Villa host Champions League-chasing Wolves at Villa Park tomorrow , with Dean Smith admitting : `` We 'll have to freshen up in certain areas . ''
Villa and Wolves will have endured quick , 48-hour turnarounds prior to the Saturday lunchtime kick-off having played on Wednesday evening .
It means slight tweaks could be expected from both sides who are fighting at each end of the Premier League table .
As for Villa , it 's match four in 11 days ahead of a much-welcome seven-day break prior to Liverpool away a week on Sunday .
Smith , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Danny Drinkwater , Frederic Guilbert and forgotten man Henri Lansbury are finally back in contention .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Bjorn Engels will miss out once again vs Wolves with an Achilles injury .
Tom Heaton and Wesley remain long-term absentees .
Regarding `` freshening up '' , Smith could look to seek a change in midfield and attack , and added : `` We 've got a decent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rotate at times . ''
The boss redeployed Jack Grealish in a central role against Newcastle but , at Villa Park , could operate the skipper higher up the pitch in a bid to pin Wolves back .
That could mean a return to the starting XI for Conor Hourihane after the Irish star 's match-winning delivery at St James ' Park .
The 29-year-old might well start to give Villa an added edge from set pieces given Wolves ' considerable lack of height in defence .
Grealish 's ability to constantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emphasis on free-kicks for Smith , too .
Staying with set plays , Smith will no doubt call on the same back four for the fourth game running .
He was quick to lambaste Ezri Konsa for his error in midweek but , overall , he 's been pleased with his defence during Project Restart .
Konsa , Kortney Hause and Tyrone Mings have been the target of many an Aston Villa corner or free-kick since Premier League football resumed .
Orjan Nyland will keep his place in goal while , at left-back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another daunting battle on his hands .
Smith said : `` I feel for Matty Targett !
The last couple of games he 's had Willian , Saint-Maximim up against him and it 's likely , if I pick Matt Targett , he 's got ( Adama ) Traore up against him .
He 's certainly finding out how to come up with a lot of pace .
We 'll certainly come up with a plan to thwart it . ''
The head coach will no doubt be reluctant to draft in , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 's yet to feature .
In midfield , Douglas Luiz will get the chance to continue his fine form after a new lease of life .
The Brazilian has been immaculate since his return and will no doubt anchor the midfield once again .
Next to him , John McGinn will get another start alongside possibly Hourihane .
On-loan Drinkwater will likely be among the substitutes on his return from a niggle .
Marvelous Nakamba , meanwhile , would represent intriguing selection .
The Zimbabwean could be tasked with sitting deep in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counter-attacks .
Up front , two changes could suffice with Mbwana Samatta and Trezeguet likely to drop out .
Keinan Davis looked more of a threat against Newcastle after coming on in midweek .
As for Trezeguet , the Egyptian was largely disappointing and missed the chance of the game early on .
As mentioned , captain Grealish could take up his usual inside-forward role once more .

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Aston Villa host Champions League-chasing Wolves at Villa Park tomorrow, with Dean Smith admitting: "We'll have to freshen up in certain areas."
Villa and Wolves will have endured quick, 48-hour turnarounds prior to the Saturday lunchtime kick-off having played on Wednesday evening.
It means slight tweaks could be expected from both sides who are fighting at each end of the Premier League table.
As for Villa, it's match four in 11 days ahead of a much-welcome seven-day break prior to Liverpool away a week on Sunday.
Smith, meanwhile, has confirmed the likes of Danny Drinkwater, Frederic Guilbert and forgotten man Henri Lansbury are finally back in contention.
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 will miss out once again vs Wolves with an Achilles injury. Tom Heaton and Wesley remain long-term absentees.
Regarding "freshening up", Smith could look to seek a change in midfield and attack, and added: "We've got a decent squad so we're going to have to rotate at times."
The boss redeployed Jack Grealish in a central role against Newcastle but, at Villa Park, could operate the skipper higher up the pitch in a bid to pin Wolves back.
That could mean a return to the starting XI for Conor Hourihane after the Irish star's match-winning delivery at St James' Park. The 29-year-old might well start to give Villa an added edge from set pieces given Wolves' considerable lack of height in defence. Grealish's ability to constantly win fouls has put more of an emphasis on free-kicks for Smith, too.
Staying with set plays, Smith will no doubt call on the same back four for the fourth game running. He was quick to lambaste Ezri Konsa for his error in midweek but, overall, he's been pleased with his defence during Project Restart. Konsa, Kortney Hause and Tyrone Mings have been the target of many an Aston Villa corner or free-kick since Premier League football resumed.
Orjan Nyland will keep his place in goal while, at left-back, Matt Targett looks set to have another daunting battle on his hands.
Smith said: "I feel for Matty Targett! The last couple of games he's had Willian, Saint-Maximim up against him and it's likely, if I pick Matt Targett, he's got (Adama) Traore up against him. He's certainly finding out how to come up with a lot of pace. We'll certainly come up with a plan to thwart it."
The head coach will no doubt be reluctant to draft in, say, Guilbert to the back-line given he's yet to feature.
In midfield, Douglas Luiz will get the chance to continue his fine form after a new lease of life. The Brazilian has been immaculate since his return and will no doubt anchor the midfield once again. Next to him, John McGinn will get another start alongside possibly Hourihane. On-loan Drinkwater will likely be among the substitutes on his return from a niggle. Marvelous Nakamba, meanwhile, would represent intriguing selection. The Zimbabwean could be tasked with sitting deep in midfield should Wolves spring their usually rapid counter-attacks.
Up front, two changes could suffice with Mbwana Samatta and Trezeguet likely to drop out. Keinan Davis looked more of a threat against Newcastle after coming on in midweek. As for Trezeguet, the Egyptian was largely disappointing and missed the chance of the game early on. As mentioned, captain Grealish could take up his usual inside-forward role once more.
Likely Aston Villa XI, (4-3-3) : Nyland; Konsa, Hause, Mings, Targett; Douglas Luiz, Hourihane, McGinn; El Ghazi, Davis, Grealish.
Likely Wolves XI, (3-4-3) : Patricio; Boly, Coady, Saiss; Doherty, Moutinho, Neves, Jonny; Traore, Jimenez, Neto.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--What happened when we took government's at-home coronavirus antibody test

We tried the government 's at-home antibody test that says if you 've had Covid-19 in minutes .
The antibody test detects whether your body has produced the antibodies to coronavirus , as the health crisis continues .
The pandemic has so far killed over 43,000 Brits in hospitals , with the number far higher in all likelihood .
But as the lockdown is eased , fears have emerged over a potential second wave or second spike in Covid-19 cases and deaths .
One such way to know how many people in the country can successfully fight off the disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to houses across the nation , the antibody test is not 100 per cent accurate .
But , with it being endorsed by the NHS and Department of Health and Social Care , the test works inside 10 minutes .
Currently , it is unknown if having antibodies gives someone long-lasting protection from the virus , reports the Liverpool Echo .
This test looks at two types of antibodies , IgM and IgG , which are made by the immune system to fight infection .
The Liverpool Echo 's Lottie Gibbons writes : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a letter thanking me for participating , an information sheet , a letter with additional information , and an instruction booklet .
`` There was also a separate clear bag , which contained the antibody test .
`` Within this , there was an alcohol wipe , two lancets , a testing stick ( which looks a bit like a pregnancy test ) , a buffer liquid , a pipette , and a plaster .
`` The booklet supplied with the kit is easy to use and features graphics to explain the instructions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draw blood and allow a large droplet of blood to fall into a square marked ‘ S ’ on the testing stick .
Lottie adds : `` This was my only criticism of the test .
`` Trying to aim the droplet into a small square is rather messy .
`` I had to use the pipette to collect the blood which had dropped around the outside in order to fill the square .
`` You then take the buffer liquid and add drops to the circular well marked as ‘ B ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Like a pregnancy test , a line will then indicate your result - which can fall into three categories .
• A blue line next to the letter ‘ C ’ will mean the test has not worked and no result can be given .
• A sole red line next to the letter ‘ C ’ will indicate a negative test result • A line next to ‘ C ’ that is red and a line next to ‘ G ’ or ‘ G ’ and ‘ M ’ means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And a red line next to ‘ C ’ and a line next to ‘ M ’ will indicate you have tested positive for IgM '' Interestingly , this test is not reliable for IgM , which means it can not tell if you have developed antibodies .
Lottie continues : `` This is unlike the IgG positive result , which indicates you have probably had the virus in the past and have developed antibodies against the virus .
`` My testing stick revealed a sole red line next to the letter ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using the buffer liquid - this means it is unlikely I have been infected with COVID-19 .
`` In my opinion , the at-home testing kit was easy to use and would benefit being rolled out nationwide .
`` The only criticisms I would draw is the difficult process of dropping blood and the fact the test is not accurate enough to confirm if you 've had the virus . ''

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We tried the government's at-home antibody test that says if you've had Covid-19 in minutes.
The antibody test detects whether your body has produced the antibodies to coronavirus, as the health crisis continues.
The pandemic has so far killed over 43,000 Brits in hospitals, with the number far higher in all likelihood.
But as the lockdown is eased, fears have emerged over a potential second wave or second spike in Covid-19 cases and deaths.
One such way to know how many people in the country can successfully fight off the disease is through the antibody tests.
Delivered to houses across the nation, the antibody test is not 100 per cent accurate.
(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
But, with it being endorsed by the NHS and Department of Health and Social Care, the test works inside 10 minutes.
Currently, it is unknown if having antibodies gives someone long-lasting protection from the virus, reports the Liverpool Echo.
This test looks at two types of antibodies, IgM and IgG, which are made by the immune system to fight infection.
The Liverpool Echo's Lottie Gibbons writes: "Within the pack, there was a letter thanking me for participating, an information sheet, a letter with additional information, and an instruction booklet.
(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
"There was also a separate clear bag, which contained the antibody test.
"Within this, there was an alcohol wipe, two lancets, a testing stick (which looks a bit like a pregnancy test), a buffer liquid, a pipette, and a plaster.
"The booklet supplied with the kit is easy to use and features graphics to explain the instructions.
"You use a lancet to draw blood and allow a large droplet of blood to fall into a square marked ‘S’ on the testing stick.
(Image: Liverpool ECHO)
Lottie adds: "This was my only criticism of the test.
"Trying to aim the droplet into a small square is rather messy.
"I had to use the pipette to collect the blood which had dropped around the outside in order to fill the square.
"You then take the buffer liquid and add drops to the circular well marked as ‘B' and wait between 10 to 15 minutes.
"Like a pregnancy test, a line will then indicate your result - which can fall into three categories.
A blue line next to the letter ‘C’ will mean the test has not worked and no result can be given.
A sole red line next to the letter ‘C’ will indicate a negative test result
A line next to ‘C’ that is red and a line next to ‘G’ or ‘G’ and ‘M’ means the test is positive for IgG
And a red line next to ‘C’ and a line next to ‘M’ will indicate you have tested positive for IgM
"Interestingly, this test is not reliable for IgM, which means it cannot tell if you have developed antibodies.
Lottie continues: "This is unlike the IgG positive result, which indicates you have probably had the virus in the past and have developed antibodies against the virus.
"My testing stick revealed a sole red line next to the letter 'C' within about two minutes of using the buffer liquid - this means it is unlikely I have been infected with COVID-19.
"In my opinion, the at-home testing kit was easy to use and would benefit being rolled out nationwide.
"The only criticisms I would draw is the difficult process of dropping blood and the fact the test is not accurate enough to confirm if you've had the virus."


birminghammail--2020-06-27--UK foreign holidays given green light as border quarantine rules dropped

Travel restrictions for airline passengers are set to be lifted as the government officially gives foreign travel the green light .
The Prime Minister has hinted the need to quarantine for a fortnight after touching down in the UK will be axed .
Boris Johnson is poised to give the go-ahead for holidays to Spain , as well as Greece and France .
The current self-isolation rules , requiring Brits to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in the UK , will be revised within days .
The government will announce a traffic light system , with officials placing countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The categories - which will feature as many as 50 countries , according to the Telegraph - will be based on the prevalence of coronavirus within each nation 's borders .
The list will be unveiled on Wednesday , with restrictions lifted as soon as July 6 .
A Government spokeswoman said : `` Our new risk-assessment system will enable us to carefully open a number of safe travel routes around the world - giving people the opportunity for a summer holiday abroad and boosting the UK economy through tourism and business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put on the brakes if any risks re-emerge , and this system will enable us to take swift action to reintroduce self-isolation measures if new outbreaks occur overseas . ''
The quarantine measures have come in for heavy criticism since they were brought in this month .
A relaxation of quarantine arrangements on foreign trips is `` very good news '' for the travel industry , which has gone through a `` very difficult period '' , Jonathan Smith from trade organisation Abta said .
He said the industry is now awaiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which risk categories .
He told BBC Breakfast : `` It will kick-start bookings for the summer and people can look forward to a summer holiday .
What we really need though is confirmation of those lists of countries which is really important , and the date and the change of the FCO travel advice which currently advises against all but essential travel . ''
He said things like table service only and new rules on flights will make it a different experience for holidaymakers .
He said : `` It 's very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't be the same as they had expected .
There 'll certainly be rules in place around airports and on airplanes , and if they 're going on a package holiday there might be changes around buffet-style restaurant systems and there 'll be table service in place so there will be slight changes in place but it 's all about making sure that the holiday experience is safe and enjoyable . ''

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Travel restrictions for airline passengers are set to be lifted as the government officially gives foreign travel the green light.
The Prime Minister has hinted the need to quarantine for a fortnight after touching down in the UK will be axed.
Boris Johnson is poised to give the go-ahead for holidays to Spain, as well as Greece and France.
The current self-isolation rules, requiring Brits to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in the UK, will be revised within days.
The government will announce a traffic light system, with officials placing countries into green, amber and red categories.
The categories - which will feature as many as 50 countries, according to the Telegraph - will be based on the prevalence of coronavirus within each nation's borders.
The list will be unveiled on Wednesday, with restrictions lifted as soon as July 6.
A Government spokeswoman said: "Our new risk-assessment system will enable us to carefully open a number of safe travel routes around the world - giving people the opportunity for a summer holiday abroad and boosting the UK economy through tourism and business.
"But we will not hesitate to put on the brakes if any risks re-emerge, and this system will enable us to take swift action to reintroduce self-isolation measures if new outbreaks occur overseas."
The quarantine measures have come in for heavy criticism since they were brought in this month.
A relaxation of quarantine arrangements on foreign trips is "very good news" for the travel industry, which has gone through a "very difficult period", Jonathan Smith from trade organisation Abta said.
He said the industry is now awaiting news of which countries will be in which risk categories.
He told BBC Breakfast: "It will kick-start bookings for the summer and people can look forward to a summer holiday. What we really need though is confirmation of those lists of countries which is really important, and the date and the change of the FCO travel advice which currently advises against all but essential travel."
(Image: Getty Images)
He said things like table service only and new rules on flights will make it a different experience for holidaymakers.
He said: "It's very likely that people's holiday experience won't be the same as they had expected. There'll certainly be rules in place around airports and on airplanes, and if they're going on a package holiday there might be changes around buffet-style restaurant systems and there'll be table service in place so there will be slight changes in place but it's all about making sure that the holiday experience is safe and enjoyable."


birminghammail--2020-06-27--‘Mortified’ - Villa hero Lee Hendrie explains Wolves confession

Lee Hendrie laughs apologetically and puts his head in his hands as he explains the circumstances in which is son became a Wolves fan .
Hendrie , an Aston Villa hero , made a career of winding up rival supporters , particularly those of his boyhood club 's local rivals .
But in an exclusive interview with Birmingham Live 's Claret & Blue podcast he confessed about his offsprings ' old gold allegiances .
Villa and Wolves meet at Villa Park today with Dean Smith 's men too close to comfort to a Championship return and Nuno Espirito Santo '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 In the Hendrie household there has been a friendly dad and lad rivalry building up to the behind-closed-doors derby .
`` Oh my goodness me .
I honestly do not know what 's gone on .
I 'm mortified , '' confesses Hendrie , in the video at the top of this piece , when asked to explain his son 's shock allegiances .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know where it 's comes from , I really do n't , because none of us lot are Wolves .
`` There 's Birmingham fans in the family , but one day we were watching a game and he was asking about Wolves .
`` He was really qiuite young at the time and weve ended up playing computer games and he always kept picking Wolves .
`` I said 'Why are you Wolves ? '
and he said I really like the colour of the kit . ''
Hendrie was a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course of a career from December 1995 to August 2006 , Hendrie made 243 league and cup starts and 65 substitute appearances for Villa , scoring 32 goals .
But even with his AVFC history , the 44-year-old was fighting a losing battle to convert his son .
`` It 's gone on and I 've took the boys down to get Villa kits at Villa Park and he didn '' t want a Villa kit , '' he explains .
`` He wanted what he called the 'orange kit ' .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it might just be a phase and then we 'll slowly filter it out into the dustbins ?
`` Nah .
That was it .
It was Wolves .
Then he started knowing players and then before I know it he 's Wolves everything . ''
Hendrie knew he had to abandon his claret and blue charm offensive and simply give up when Wolves FA Cup semi final defeat in April 2019 left his boy distraught .
`` I 've seen him crying over games becuase they got beat .
I think it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they got beat .
`` I remember him bouncing round when they were 2-0 up and Troy Deeney scored late on and they ended up losing .
`` I 've never seen a kid so upset and that 's when I knew he really did support the club to be fair to him . ''
Hendrie himself grew up in a Birmingham City family .
His Dad , Paul , played for Blues , and his Nan is still a St Andrew 's season ticket holder .
At least the former midfielder has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There 's one thing I can take out of this and it 's that he is n't a Birmingham fan , '' he grins .
`` Because he would n't have been stepping foot in this house if he was I 'll tell you that now for a fact .
`` I could n't have had that kit in here ! ''
Hendrie finally took his lad to watch a match at Molineux earlier this season - and good-natured Wolves fans easily saw through his attemts to conceal his identity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sdoing anything , they make their own minds up , but to go to Wolves was a big thing for me because I wanted to do the football thing , the dad thing .
`` I jumped on the train , I 've got my hat on trying to disguise myself .
`` I have got absolutely ... well , I thought I 'd get a lot worse and the Wolves fans were quite pleasant considering I 've always had a bit of beef with Wolves and West Brom and what not .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was a crap game and they drew 0-0 .
He enjoyed the game . ''
Hendrie has one hope - and it has nothing to do with the result at Villa Park today or the respective fates of Villa and Wolves this season .
It 's something a little closer to home .
`` It 's one of those things , '' he adds .
`` I ca n't knock it out of him , but hopefully he 'll see sense as he gets that little bit older ! ''

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Lee Hendrie laughs apologetically and puts his head in his hands as he explains the circumstances in which is son became a Wolves fan.
Hendrie, an Aston Villa hero, made a career of winding up rival supporters, particularly those of his boyhood club's local rivals.
But in an exclusive interview with Birmingham Live's Claret & Blue podcast he confessed about his offsprings' old gold allegiances.
Villa and Wolves meet at Villa Park today with Dean Smith's men too close to comfort to a Championship return and Nuno Espirito Santo''s team targeting the Champions League.
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
In the Hendrie household there has been a friendly dad and lad rivalry building up to the behind-closed-doors derby.
"Oh my goodness me. I honestly do not know what's gone on. I'm mortified," confesses Hendrie, in the video at the top of this piece, when asked to explain his son's shock allegiances.
"I really am. I don't know where it's comes from, I really don't, because none of us lot are Wolves.
"There's Birmingham fans in the family, but one day we were watching a game and he was asking about Wolves.
"He was really qiuite young at the time and weve ended up playing computer games and he always kept picking Wolves.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"I said 'Why are you Wolves?' and he said I really like the colour of the kit."
Hendrie was a big claret and blue favourite. Over the course of a career from December 1995 to August 2006, Hendrie made 243 league and cup starts and 65 substitute appearances for Villa, scoring 32 goals.
But even with his AVFC history, the 44-year-old was fighting a losing battle to convert his son.
"It's gone on and I've took the boys down to get Villa kits at Villa Park and he didn''t want a Villa kit," he explains.
"He wanted what he called the 'orange kit'. I thought do I get him it and it might just be a phase and then we'll slowly filter it out into the dustbins?
"Nah. That was it. It was Wolves. Then he started knowing players and then before I know it he's Wolves everything."
Hendrie knew he had to abandon his claret and blue charm offensive and simply give up when Wolves FA Cup semi final defeat in April 2019 left his boy distraught.
"I've seen him crying over games becuase they got beat. I think it was the Watford game at Wemblety where they got beat.
"I remember him bouncing round when they were 2-0 up and Troy Deeney scored late on and they ended up losing.
"I've never seen a kid so upset and that's when I knew he really did support the club to be fair to him."
Hendrie himself grew up in a Birmingham City family. His Dad, Paul, played for Blues, and his Nan is still a St Andrew's season ticket holder.
At least the former midfielder has one consolation with his son's situation.
"There's one thing I can take out of this and it's that he isn't a Birmingham fan," he grins. "Because he wouldn't have been stepping foot in this house if he was I'll tell you that now for a fact.
"I couldn't have had that kit in here!"
Hendrie finally took his lad to watch a match at Molineux earlier this season - and good-natured Wolves fans easily saw through his attemts to conceal his identity.
"I never push my lads into sdoing anything, they make their own minds up, but to go to Wolves was a big thing for me because I wanted to do the football thing, the dad thing.
Claret & Blue podcast Have you tried our Claret & Blue podcast out? Claret & Blue is our expanded look at everything Aston Villa - and you can find it on iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube, as well as your podcast service of choice. Our writers will bring you the latest from Villa Park in their own unique style, taking a deeper look at the Villans while having a lot of fun along the way. What can you expect? Well,analysis, news, interviews and debate along with, yes, a fair amount of nonsense! That's not all though, you can find the podcast on Twitter here, and as a newsletter which you can subscribe to here. In our newsletter you'll get original articles like this and exclusive interviews before anyone else has access. What are you waiting for?
"I jumped on the train, I've got my hat on trying to disguise myself.
"I have got absolutely ... well, I thought I'd get a lot worse and the Wolves fans were quite pleasant considering I've always had a bit of beef with Wolves and West Brom and what not.
"But they were quite plesant. It was a crap game and they drew 0-0. He enjoyed the game."
Hendrie has one hope - and it has nothing to do with the result at Villa Park today or the respective fates of Villa and Wolves this season.
It's something a little closer to home.
"It's one of those things," he adds. "I can't knock it out of him, but hopefully he'll see sense as he gets that little bit older!"


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Everything Dean Smith has said about Wolves and taming Adama Traore

Dean Smith has revealed Aston Villa have planned for dealing with the explosive pace of Adama Traore as his side prepare to face Wolves .
Traore has been on fire for Wolves since the return and Smith has watched with interest at how the Spaniard has laid siege to defences .
He admits that he feels a bit sorry for Matty Targett who faces the unenviable task of shakling Traore .
He conceded : `` I feel for Matty Targett , really !
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 '' The last couple of games he 's had Willian , Saint-Maximim up against him and it 's likely if I pick Matt Targett he 's got Traore up against him .
`` He 's certainly finding out how to come up with a lot of pace .
We 'll certainly come up with a plan to thwart it .
`` Traore has been unbelievable .
You saw him come on in that first game and produce a moment of brilliance . ''
The demanding fixtures schedule could work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking the edge of a Wolves team that have come out of the blocks firing on all cylinders .
In terms of combating the Wolves threat , Smith admits that he hopes for some tired Wolves legs .
He stated : `` This is our fourth game in 11 days and it 'll be Wolves ' third in eight days .
We 've both had a 48-hour turnaround .
`` It 's going to be a tough one but hopefully they 'll be feeling a bit of weariness and tiredness for the minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves are a side that Smith has a lot of admiration for , and one player in particular has impressed him .
Smith reveals : `` It 's Raul Jimenez , for me , I said this before we played them last time , he 's one of the signings of the season .
`` He looks a threat , a proper goalscorer and a proper centre-forward .
`` Listen , I 've spoken before about how much I rate Jimenez as well .
He 's one of the best centre-forwards .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best in the air , I mean we came up against Andy Carroll and he 's renowned for it .
Raul 's certainly good and scored headers this season , but it 's his all-round game , his work-rate , spotting runs , making them and knowing the timing of when to do so .
`` He 's a top player .
`` I 've got total respect for Nuno .
He 's done an unbelievable job and Wolves deserve to be where they are at the moment . ''
So with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raul , and a Wolves team fighting for the top six , how wil Villa fare against their neighbours ?
Smith is upbeat , stating : `` I 'm confident .
There 's a lot of optimism around the training ground .
It may seem weird because we have n't won one of our first three games .
`` Our performance levels have been better and we will only get better in our last seven games .
`` We see the big teams as opportunities .
We did ok against Chelsea , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinions .
to restrict a team like that to few good chances is very good .
Our defensive organisation is excellent , I feel .
Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause have come in and [ Hause ] has been a colossus at the back .
`` He 'll relish playing against his old club .
`` There 's a lot of things we need to do right to win one of those games .
Getting Jack [ Grealish ] on the ball , now he 's got that spot back .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've come back and he probably did n't have as much of the ball as he 'd have liked against Chelsea , he was quiet against Sheffield United .
`` He started to come back to the Jack we all know against Newcastle , especially in the last 15-20 minutes .
`` I know how Wolves play , Nuno knows how we play .
It 's straightforward in terms of planning for the game .
I think it 'll be a battle between the teams to dominate posession .
Wolves have been good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll focus on . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Steve Wollaston, Ashley Preece)

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Dean Smith has revealed Aston Villa have planned for dealing with the explosive pace of Adama Traore as his side prepare to face Wolves.
Traore has been on fire for Wolves since the return and Smith has watched with interest at how the Spaniard has laid siege to defences.
He admits that he feels a bit sorry for Matty Targett who faces the unenviable task of shakling Traore.
He conceded: "I feel for Matty Targett, really!
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
"The last couple of games he's had Willian, Saint-Maximim up against him and it's likely if I pick Matt Targett he's got Traore up against him.
"He's certainly finding out how to come up with a lot of pace. We'll certainly come up with a plan to thwart it.
"Traore has been unbelievable. You saw him come on in that first game and produce a moment of brilliance."
The demanding fixtures schedule could work in Villa's faour in terms of taking the edge of a Wolves team that have come out of the blocks firing on all cylinders.
In terms of combating the Wolves threat, Smith admits that he hopes for some tired Wolves legs.
He stated: "This is our fourth game in 11 days and it'll be Wolves' third in eight days. We've both had a 48-hour turnaround.
"It's going to be a tough one but hopefully they'll be feeling a bit of weariness and tiredness for the minutes they've had of late."
Wolves are a side that Smith has a lot of admiration for, and one player in particular has impressed him.
(Image: 2020 Pool)
Smith reveals: "It's Raul Jimenez, for me, I said this before we played them last time, he's one of the signings of the season.
"He looks a threat, a proper goalscorer and a proper centre-forward.
"Listen, I've spoken before about how much I rate Jimenez as well. He's one of the best centre-forwards.
"I wouldn't say he's the best in the air, I mean we came up against Andy Carroll and he's renowned for it. Raul's certainly good and scored headers this season, but it's his all-round game, his work-rate, spotting runs, making them and knowing the timing of when to do so.
"He's a top player.
"I've got total respect for Nuno. He's done an unbelievable job and Wolves deserve to be where they are at the moment."
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
So with the pace of Traore, the brilliance of Raul, and a Wolves team fighting for the top six, how wil Villa fare against their neighbours?
Smith is upbeat, stating: "I'm confident. There's a lot of optimism around the training ground. It may seem weird because we haven't won one of our first three games.
"Our performance levels have been better and we will only get better in our last seven games.
"We see the big teams as opportunities. We did ok against Chelsea, in my opinion. Others will have different opinions. to restrict a team like that to few good chances is very good. Our defensive organisation is excellent, I feel. Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause have come in and [Hause] has been a colossus at the back.
"He'll relish playing against his old club.
"There's a lot of things we need to do right to win one of those games. Getting Jack [Grealish] on the ball, now he's got that spot back.
"It's been tough for Jack since we've come back and he probably didn't have as much of the ball as he'd have liked against Chelsea, he was quiet against Sheffield United.
"He started to come back to the Jack we all know against Newcastle, especially in the last 15-20 minutes.
"I know how Wolves play, Nuno knows how we play. It's straightforward in terms of planning for the game. I think it'll be a battle between the teams to dominate posession. Wolves have been good on the counter. That area we'll focus on."


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Schoolgirl, 6, rings police and urges them to 'take her mum to jail'

This is the Staffordshire schoolgirl who rang 999 to tell police to take her mother to prison .
Ruby Pitchford , aged just six , managed to dial emergency services and told a cop on the other end of the line to `` take her mummy to jail '' .
The schoolgirl , from Staffs , made the call minutes after the pair had been play-fighting at home .
She rang Staffordshire Police when mum Vicky Pitchford was in the other room .
Vicky told our sister title StokeonTrentLive she was gobsmacked when Ruby ran in brandishing her mobile .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the realisation a police officer was on the other end of the receiver .
Vicky , 29 , said : “ We do a lot of play-fighting together .
As she was trying to get away , she was crawling across the floor , so I got her foot and dragged her towards me and that was that .
I thought she was over it .
“ When we were done I went upstairs to clean my bedroom and Ruby walked in and said the police were on the phone .
I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t believe her .
“ She put the phone on loudspeaker and I heard a man say 'hello ' so I took the phone off her and saw that she had actually dialled 999 .
“ I spoke to the male copper and he said 'your daughter told us to take you to mummy jail ' because you grabbed her foot .
“ I could n't believe it when I heard the voice on the other end of the phone - and Ruby was running around the room laughing.
” The officer 'quizzed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was wrong .
Vicky added : “ The operator was laughing down the phone .
We were hysterical and I was laughing for a long time .
“ I have a lot of panic attacks so I have taught her to dial 999 because sometimes there are times when I can ’ t breathe so she may have to call them but this time she took it to her own advantage .
“ In a way I am proud that she has remembered how to dial the number , although it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever need help she is there and able to get that help for me and that is why she has got her own phone as well .
“ When we came off the phone to the police I had a word with her that she has got to take the number seriously because it is for emergencies only .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Fahad Tariq, James Rodger)

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This is the Staffordshire schoolgirl who rang 999 to tell police to take her mother to prison.
Ruby Pitchford, aged just six, managed to dial emergency services and told a cop on the other end of the line to "take her mummy to jail".
The schoolgirl, from Staffs, made the call minutes after the pair had been play-fighting at home.
She rang Staffordshire Police when mum Vicky Pitchford was in the other room.
Vicky told our sister title StokeonTrentLive she was gobsmacked when Ruby ran in brandishing her mobile.
And she was even more shocked at the realisation a police officer was on the other end of the receiver.
Vicky, 29, said: “We do a lot of play-fighting together. As she was trying to get away, she was crawling across the floor, so I got her foot and dragged her towards me and that was that. I thought she was over it.
“When we were done I went upstairs to clean my bedroom and Ruby walked in and said the police were on the phone. I was like 'whatever' because I didn’t believe her.
“She put the phone on loudspeaker and I heard a man say 'hello' so I took the phone off her and saw that she had actually dialled 999.
“I spoke to the male copper and he said 'your daughter told us to take you to mummy jail' because you grabbed her foot.
“I couldn't believe it when I heard the voice on the other end of the phone - and Ruby was running around the room laughing.”
The officer 'quizzed' Vicky before Ruby confirmed that nothing was wrong.
Vicky added: “The operator was laughing down the phone. We were hysterical and I was laughing for a long time.
“I have a lot of panic attacks so I have taught her to dial 999 because sometimes there are times when I can’t breathe so she may have to call them but this time she took it to her own advantage.
“In a way I am proud that she has remembered how to dial the number, although it’s a bit silly.
“If I ever need help she is there and able to get that help for me and that is why she has got her own phone as well.
“When we came off the phone to the police I had a word with her that she has got to take the number seriously because it is for emergencies only.”


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Pundit heaps praise on 'wonderful' Wolves as Nuno's men dismantle Aston Villa

Nuno Espirito Santo 's Wolves have defied critics who suggested the club could n't handle an increased workload .
Naysayers took aim at the tight size of the Wanderers squad , and hinted - perhaps correctly - that fitness issues would crop up for anyone in Nuno 's situation .
In fact , it has n't yet occurred , and Wolves have flown high all season as they chase Champions League football and Europa Cup glory .
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Google Play Store and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and former Premier League footballer Michael Brown has been blown away by Nuno 's efforts this season .
`` This Wolves side just keep getting results , it ’ s a wonderful achievement with the amount of games they ’ ve played so far , '' said Brown speaking to Football Insider .
`` I might be wrong but it ’ s got to be around 45 or something like that , it ’ s brilliant from a squad that don ’ t really change that much .
`` The planning and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injuries is first-class .
What they can do different to someone else , they can say , and they ’ re a top-six side : ‘ Go on , you can have the ball , we ’ ll sit here , that ’ s fine and then as the game develops we ’ ll then come and use counter-attacking.
’ '' They ’ re really good without the ball and are comfortable not having the ball . ''
Wolves ' 1-0 win over Aston Villa earlier today has placed Nuno 's side in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United and just two points behind Chelsea in fourth-place .

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Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolves have defied critics who suggested the club couldn't handle an increased workload.
Naysayers took aim at the tight size of the Wanderers squad, and hinted - perhaps correctly - that fitness issues would crop up for anyone in Nuno's situation.
In fact, it hasn't yet occurred, and Wolves have flown high all season as they chase Champions League football and Europa Cup glory.
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That hasn't gone unnoticed, and former Premier League footballer Michael Brown has been blown away by Nuno's efforts this season.
"This Wolves side just keep getting results, it’s a wonderful achievement with the amount of games they’ve played so far," said Brown speaking to Football Insider.
"I might be wrong but it’s got to be around 45 or something like that, it’s brilliant from a squad that don’t really change that much.
"The planning and the application with regards to limiting those injuries is first-class. What they can do different to someone else, they can say, and they’re a top-six side: ‘Go on, you can have the ball, we’ll sit here, that’s fine and then as the game develops we’ll then come and use counter-attacking.’
"They’re really good without the ball and are comfortable not having the ball."
Wolves' 1-0 win over Aston Villa earlier today has placed Nuno's side in 5th, three points ahead of Manchester United and just two points behind Chelsea in fourth-place.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--'Nailed on' - West Brom fans all say the same thing about Mitrovic

Leeds United ’ s comprehensive success at home to Fulham on Saturday wasn ’ t the only major talking point in a big weekend at the top of the Championship .
With many West Brom and Brentford supporters eagerly watching the occasion at Elland Road unfold , alongside the fans of those clubs involved , Leeds put the Cottagers to the sword to overtake Albion in the league table and severely damage the visitors ’ automatic promotion hopes .
What might also be waiting around the corner for Scott Parker ’ s side is a call from the Football Association @ @ @ @ @ @ @ television cameras appearing to elbow Leeds defender Ben White in the opening stages of the game .
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Google Play Store and App Store The act went unpunished by the officials , which has led to suggestions that retrospective action may be taken by the FA .
Should a ban be issued by the FA , the unavailability of Mitrovic would be a further blow to the club 's hopes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s very own Matheus Pereira was found guilty of catching Stoke City ’ s Joe Allen in a similar incident back in January , and he was handed a three-match ban in the aftermath of the game .
Mitrovic , key to Fulham ’ s promotion hopes , is the division ’ s joint leading scorer with 23 league goals .
Glenn Thompson : Mitrovic won ’ t get banned for his elbow , because he doesn ’ t play for West Brom Andy Le Feaver : Got to be a 3 game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again he doesnt play for the Albion Cuzer : I presume @ FA are working still ?
As that ’ s a nailed on 3 game ban for Mitrovic in the @ LUFC @ FulhamFC game Andrew Benbow : Mitrovic ban surely coming , and that is Fulham out of the running .
We just need to rediscover some inspiration .
Simon : Wonder if the FA will look at the Mitrovic incident again ?
Ref didn ’ t see it , clear red , if it was WBA or Leeds ... Dylan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 match ban for Mitrovic if the ref didn ’ t see it ?
Chris Heath : Mitrovic ... completely needless .
That ’ s not being aggressive , that ’ s just stupid .

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Leeds United’s comprehensive success at home to Fulham on Saturday wasn’t the only major talking point in a big weekend at the top of the Championship.
With many West Brom and Brentford supporters eagerly watching the occasion at Elland Road unfold, alongside the fans of those clubs involved, Leeds put the Cottagers to the sword to overtake Albion in the league table and severely damage the visitors’ automatic promotion hopes.
What might also be waiting around the corner for Scott Parker’s side is a call from the Football Association, after Aleksandar Mitrovic was caught by television cameras appearing to elbow Leeds defender Ben White in the opening stages of the game.
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The act went unpunished by the officials, which has led to suggestions that retrospective action may be taken by the FA. Should a ban be issued by the FA, the unavailability of Mitrovic would be a further blow to the club's hopes of a Premier League return.
Albion’s very own Matheus Pereira was found guilty of catching Stoke City’s Joe Allen in a similar incident back in January, and he was handed a three-match ban in the aftermath of the game.
Mitrovic, key to Fulham’s promotion hopes, is the division’s joint leading scorer with 23 league goals.
Albion fans on Mitrovic incident
Glenn Thompson: Mitrovic won’t get banned for his elbow, because he doesn’t play for West Brom
Andy Le Feaver: Got to be a 3 game ban for Mitrovic.... but then again he doesnt play for the Albion
Cuzer : I presume @FA are working still? As that’s a nailed on 3 game ban for Mitrovic in the @LUFC @FulhamFC game
Andrew Benbow: Mitrovic ban surely coming, and that is Fulham out of the running. We just need to rediscover some inspiration.
Simon : Wonder if the FA will look at the Mitrovic incident again? Ref didn’t see it, clear red, if it was WBA or Leeds...
Dylan Ashmore: Surely that’s a 3 match ban for Mitrovic if the ref didn’t see it?
Chris Heath: Mitrovic ... completely needless. That’s not being aggressive, that’s just stupid.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--Why Jeremie Bela is Birmingham City best transfer in years

Reliable wingers are a rare and precious commodity and in Jeremie Bela Birmingham City have unearthed a diamond .
Blues were as poor in the first half of today ’ s 3-3 draw with Hull City as they have been at any point this season , their midfield muddle causing mayhem with their defence .
It took just 20 seconds for the lack of cohesion to be apparent as the dangerous Mallik Wilks was given the freedom of St Andrew ’ s before Jake Clarke-Salter slid in to deny him a sure-fire goal .
The Chelsea loanee , normally such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable in a first half dominated by a Hull City team whose demise appears to have been exaggerated .
They fought like Tigers here , no suggestion that a run of just two points from 36 available had sapped their will to survive .
Not that there was much to fight against , they were pushing against the proverbial open door .
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Google Play Store and App Store Blues lacked any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and seemed strangely over-staffed yet chronically undermanned in the middle of the park .
Wide players Jude Bellingham and Dan Crowley came infield to create , which made it too easy for Hull to congest the central areas and negate any attacking threat .
In vacating their wide berths they also left their team vulnerable to counter attacks and Hull had too much time and space to deliver balls into their box .
It was obvious something needed to change at half time and Pep Clotet made the right call by bringing on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide them with width and penetration .
The team looked instantly more stable and took flight from the restart , within a quarter of an hour they were level – and in truth they could have even have been 4-2 up .
Bela terrorised the right side of the Hull defence – and suddenly Maxime Colin found space to come forward and deliver some dangerous crosses .
In the first half the Frenchman had managed to achieve the remarkable feat of being out of position in both attack and defence at the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had supplied a cross for Crowley ’ s equaliser , narrowly shaved the post with a header from Colin ’ s cross and forced George Long into a near-post save .
By the end of the game he had added two more assists to take his half-season tally to seven .
He found Crowley with his left foot and Gardner with his right .
If reliable wingers are rare , reliable wingers who are two-footed belong in the the 'hen 's teeth ' category .
With four goals thrown in – those are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belong to promotion challenging teams .
Indeed the perseverance Blues showed in extracting Bela from his legal wrangles with Albacete might turn out to be their smartest free transfer of post Premier League era .
He really is that good , an absolute gem .

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Reliable wingers are a rare and precious commodity and in Jeremie Bela Birmingham City have unearthed a diamond.
Blues were as poor in the first half of today’s 3-3 draw with Hull City as they have been at any point this season, their midfield muddle causing mayhem with their defence.
It took just 20 seconds for the lack of cohesion to be apparent as the dangerous Mallik Wilks was given the freedom of St Andrew’s before Jake Clarke-Salter slid in to deny him a sure-fire goal.
The Chelsea loanee, normally such a composed and accomplished defender was rarely comfortable in a first half dominated by a Hull City team whose demise appears to have been exaggerated.
They fought like Tigers here, no suggestion that a run of just two points from 36 available had sapped their will to survive. Not that there was much to fight against, they were pushing against the proverbial open door.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City 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
Blues lacked any sense of urgency in the opening period and seemed strangely over-staffed yet chronically undermanned in the middle of the park.
Wide players Jude Bellingham and Dan Crowley came infield to create, which made it too easy for Hull to congest the central areas and negate any attacking threat.
In vacating their wide berths they also left their team vulnerable to counter attacks and Hull had too much time and space to deliver balls into their box.
It was obvious something needed to change at half time and Pep Clotet made the right call by bringing on Bela, an authentic winger who would provide them with width and penetration.
The team looked instantly more stable and took flight from the restart, within a quarter of an hour they were level – and in truth they could have even have been 4-2 up.
Bela terrorised the right side of the Hull defence – and suddenly Maxime Colin found space to come forward and deliver some dangerous crosses. In the first half the Frenchman had managed to achieve the remarkable feat of being out of position in both attack and defence at the same time.
By the hour mark Bela had supplied a cross for Crowley’s equaliser, narrowly shaved the post with a header from Colin’s cross and forced George Long into a near-post save.
By the end of the game he had added two more assists to take his half-season tally to seven. He found Crowley with his left foot and Gardner with his right.
If reliable wingers are rare, reliable wingers who are two-footed belong in the the 'hen's teeth' category.
With four goals thrown in – those are impressive numbers, the kind of which belong to promotion challenging teams.
Indeed the perseverance Blues showed in extracting Bela from his legal wrangles with Albacete might turn out to be their smartest free transfer of post Premier League era.
He really is that good, an absolute gem.


birminghammail--2020-06-27--How Bielsa sees Leeds, Albion, Brentford and the promotion race

Marcelo Bielsa refused to concede that Leeds United have the upper hand in the promotion race after they blitzed Championship top six rivals Fulham at Elland Road .
The top of the Championship , after a key round of fixtures this week , certainly looks favourable for Leeds , after West Brom - the only side to have progressed at a similar pace to them this season - were beaten on Friday by third placed Brentford .
Albion , like Leeds , fell in the play-off semi finals last season ; they , like Leeds , have intended to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the suspension of the campaign , were well placed .
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Google Play Store and App Store Since the restart , Leeds have added to the points gap between themselves and the chasing pack , while Albion ’ s has been cut by a single point .
Bielsa , though , didn ’ t appear interested in reading too much into the developments and hinted that he expects more twists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven matches .
“ The win was necessary for us , very important , ” Bielsa told the Yorkshire Evening Post .
“ In every match we are going to talk about numeric modification in the table .
“ It is very difficult to interpret any circumstance as a tendency .
”

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Marcelo Bielsa refused to concede that Leeds United have the upper hand in the promotion race after they blitzed Championship top six rivals Fulham at Elland Road.
The top of the Championship, after a key round of fixtures this week, certainly looks favourable for Leeds, after West Brom - the only side to have progressed at a similar pace to them this season - were beaten on Friday by third placed Brentford.
Albion, like Leeds, fell in the play-off semi finals last season; they, like Leeds, have intended to go one better this term and, prior to the suspension of the campaign, were well placed.
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 .
Since the restart, Leeds have added to the points gap between themselves and the chasing pack, while Albion’s has been cut by a single point.
Bielsa, though, didn’t appear interested in reading too much into the developments and hinted that he expects more twists and turns to come in the final seven matches.
“The win was necessary for us, very important,” Bielsa told the Yorkshire Evening Post. “In every match we are going to talk about numeric modification in the table.
“It is very difficult to interpret any circumstance as a tendency.”