birminghammail--2020-09-20--Bilic knows what Albion must do as transfer deadline draws closer

After the disappointment of that opening day defeat to Leicester City , it was better from West Brom at Everton - ultimately , though , it was the same outcome .
A hat-trick from Dominic Calvert-Lewin , as well as strikes from James Rodriguez and Michael Keane sealed a comfortable home win at Goodison Park , despite the brilliance of Grady Diangana and Matheus Pereira .
Kieran Gibbs did n't help matters after being sent off before half-time .
Boss Slaven Bilic followed suit .
Here are the talking points from Merseyside .
Make sure you do n't miss a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our Albion newsletter Little needs to be added to the stats that are there for all to see : Albion are already conceding too many goals .
Kieran Gibbs , who apologised after the game , did n't do himself any favours , either .
We ’ re two games in and yet that goals against column already has an eight under it , an average that quite simply can not continue if the Baggies are to have any hopes of fighting their way to a second season at this level .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ halves in the first two matches of the season , and at times it ’ s shown promise , but ultimately the numbers speak for themselves .
The ease with which Leicester and Everton - both of whom possess quality forwards - have scored their goals has been far too easy for Bilic ’ s liking .
Here , the Toffees had five goals in the space of 35 minutes , either side of half time .
That ’ s the other thing .
Albion have worryingly fallen apart when they ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out to the Foxes and then fallen behind to Everton , the damage didn ’ t end there .
With any luck , the returning Ahmed Hegazi and new signing Branislav Ivanovic can offer some top flight experience to a rookie back-line .
There was not Charlie Austin or Kenneth Zohore in the match-day 18 .
Hal Robson-Kanu was an unused substitute .
Albion ’ s three , recognised , senior forwards didn ’ t earn a minute of game-time between them here , and that speaks volumes of where Bilic feels his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tried his very best here , and showed moments of real promise as he played a part in decent Albion build-up play .
He tested Jordan Pickford just the once .
Ultimately , though , while the defence are having problems , so are the forward department .
Austin struggled to make an impact against Harrogate and Zohore appears set for the exit , too .
It ’ s imperative that Albion get themselves a forward in these final few weeks of the transfer window that can present himself as a genuine option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only place further emphasis on Albion ’ s transfer window , and the potential business they still be able to do before the closure of the period next month .
You must bear in mind at this point that Albion still have Ivanovic and Conor Gallagher to call upon - neither were available here , for one reason or another , but both are likely to be in and around the starting XI for the duration of the season .
They ’ ve not exactly been quiet ; Albion have secured seven signings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least a couple more fresh faces before the October deadline to complement and support the existing quality they possess in the squad .
As already mentioned , a striker is of paramount importance .
Karlan Grant remains the ideal target , while Filip Krovinovic tops the bill for Bilic himself ahead of the closure of the window .
Welcome to the Premier League Let ’ s end on a positive - it is of course important to recognise the talent Albion do boast , even if the defeat isn ’ t necessarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matheus Pereira can be left in no doubt that they belong at this level after Saturday ’ s showing .
Sharing a pitch with international stars James Rodriguez , Richarlison and Yerry Mina , the pair - who were of the utmost importance to Albion last term - looked at home on the big stage , in front of the BT Sport cameras .
The composure and athleticism that Diangana showed to slot away the opening goal - after being fed by Pereira in his own half - was exceptional .
Pereira , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at times , and he reminded you that he is without question one of the best players Albion have been privileged to enjoy in recent years .
His free-kick was one that Chris Brunt , who planted one in the corner of the goal at the same ground almost 10 years ago , would ’ ve been proud of .
With Diangana and Pereira fit and firing , this team will have a chance - provided they tighten up !

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After the disappointment of that opening day defeat to Leicester City, it was better from West Brom at Everton - ultimately, though, it was the same outcome.
A hat-trick from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as well as strikes from James Rodriguez and Michael Keane sealed a comfortable home win at Goodison Park, despite the brilliance of Grady Diangana and Matheus Pereira.
Kieran Gibbs didn't help matters after being sent off before half-time. Boss Slaven Bilic followed suit.
Here are the talking points from Merseyside.
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Defence and discipline
Little needs to be added to the stats that are there for all to see: Albion are already conceding too many goals. Kieran Gibbs, who apologised after the game, didn't do himself any favours, either.
We’re two games in and yet that goals against column already has an eight under it, an average that quite simply cannot continue if the Baggies are to have any hopes of fighting their way to a second season at this level.
They’ve operated with three centre halves in the first two matches of the season, and at times it’s shown promise, but ultimately the numbers speak for themselves.
The ease with which Leicester and Everton - both of whom possess quality forwards - have scored their goals has been far too easy for Bilic’s liking. Here, the Toffees had five goals in the space of 35 minutes, either side of half time.
That’s the other thing. Albion have worryingly fallen apart when they’ve conceded; once they’d given out to the Foxes and then fallen behind to Everton, the damage didn’t end there. With any luck, the returning Ahmed Hegazi and new signing Branislav Ivanovic can offer some top flight experience to a rookie back-line.
(Image: Getty Images)
Striker light
There was not Charlie Austin or Kenneth Zohore in the match-day 18. Hal Robson-Kanu was an unused substitute.
Albion’s three, recognised, senior forwards didn’t earn a minute of game-time between them here, and that speaks volumes of where Bilic feels his forward department currently is.
Callum Robinson tried his very best here, and showed moments of real promise as he played a part in decent Albion build-up play. He tested Jordan Pickford just the once.
Ultimately, though, while the defence are having problems, so are the forward department. Austin struggled to make an impact against Harrogate and Zohore appears set for the exit, too.
It’s imperative that Albion get themselves a forward in these final few weeks of the transfer window that can present himself as a genuine option to Bilic.
Crunch time
Defeats such as this only place further emphasis on Albion’s transfer window, and the potential business they still be able to do before the closure of the period next month.
You must bear in mind at this point that Albion still have Ivanovic and Conor Gallagher to call upon - neither were available here, for one reason or another, but both are likely to be in and around the starting XI for the duration of the season.
They’ve not exactly been quiet; Albion have secured seven signings this summer, but they still need at least a couple more fresh faces before the October deadline to complement and support the existing quality they possess in the squad.
As already mentioned, a striker is of paramount importance. Karlan Grant remains the ideal target, while Filip Krovinovic tops the bill for Bilic himself ahead of the closure of the window.
Welcome to the Premier League
Let’s end on a positive - it is of course important to recognise the talent Albion do boast, even if the defeat isn’t necessarily of their making.
Grady Diangana and Matheus Pereira can be left in no doubt that they belong at this level after Saturday’s showing.
Sharing a pitch with international stars James Rodriguez, Richarlison and Yerry Mina, the pair - who were of the utmost importance to Albion last term - looked at home on the big stage, in front of the BT Sport cameras.
The composure and athleticism that Diangana showed to slot away the opening goal - after being fed by Pereira in his own half - was exceptional.
Pereira, who needs little introduction, was mesmerising at times, and he reminded you that he is without question one of the best players Albion have been privileged to enjoy in recent years.
His free-kick was one that Chris Brunt, who planted one in the corner of the goal at the same ground almost 10 years ago, would’ve been proud of.
With Diangana and Pereira fit and firing, this team will have a chance - provided they tighten up!


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Man United are 'looking to offload' player linked with Villa transfer

Manchester United are looking to offload Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero , according to reports .
Romero has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford after Dean Henderson returned from his loan spell at Sheffield United to take up the position of number two goalkeeper .
Henderson has taken Romero 's place on the bench at Old Trafford and he looks set to be given cup duties by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season .
And The Sun reports that both United and Romero are trying to find a solution to his predicament .
`` Romero wants to go to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the report .
`` And United chiefs are open to him leaving and currently working on the idea . ''
Romero was heavily linked with a move to Aston Villa earlier in the transfer window as Dean Smith searched for a new goalkeeper .
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 .
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Google Play Store and App Store But that vacancy has been filled by Romero 's compatriot Emiliano Martinez , who joined Villa in a deal worth around £20million from Arsenal .
A move for Romero is no longer an option with Villa focusing their energies on matters at the other end of the field and announced the signing of exciting winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon on Saturday .
In addition to Martinez and Traore , Villa have already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Watkins for a club-record fee of £28million .

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Manchester United are looking to offload Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero, according to reports.
Romero has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford after Dean Henderson returned from his loan spell at Sheffield United to take up the position of number two goalkeeper.
Henderson has taken Romero's place on the bench at Old Trafford and he looks set to be given cup duties by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season.
And The Sun reports that both United and Romero are trying to find a solution to his predicament.
"Romero wants to go to a new club and play," says the report. "And United chiefs are open to him leaving and currently working on the idea."
Romero was heavily linked with a move to Aston Villa earlier in the transfer window as Dean Smith searched for a new goalkeeper.
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
But that vacancy has been filled by Romero's compatriot Emiliano Martinez, who joined Villa in a deal worth around £20million from Arsenal.
A move for Romero is no longer an option with Villa focusing their energies on matters at the other end of the field and announced the signing of exciting winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon on Saturday.
In addition to Martinez and Traore, Villa have already landed right-back Matty Cash and striker Ollie Watkins for a club-record fee of £28million.


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Ruben Neves sends message to Diogo Jota after Liverpool transfer

Ruben Neves has bid farewell to long-time teammate and close friend Diogo Jota after his transfer to Liverpool .
Jota completed a move away from Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night for a fee which could eventually rise to £45million .
The popular Portuguese forward netted 44 goals in 131 games for Wolves after joining the club , initially on loan , from Atletico Madrid in 2017 .
He was instrumental in Wolves winning the Championship title and played a huge part in taking the club to an FA Cup semi-final and the Europa League quarter-finals during his stay at Molineux @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time as midfielder Neves , who has also been integral to the team 's rise under Nuno Espirito Santo .
Prior to joining Wolves , Jota spent a season on loan at FC Porto where he was a teammate of Neves and the pair are now fully-fledged internationals with their country .
And Neves , who has himself pledged his immediate future to Wolves recently , has reacted to Jota 's move to Anfield .
Posting a picture of the pair celebrating one of Jota 's three Wolves hat-tricks on Instagram , Neves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a pleasure . ''
Jota is scheduled to make his first return to Molineux on March 13 next year .

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Ruben Neves has bid farewell to long-time teammate and close friend Diogo Jota after his transfer to Liverpool.
Jota completed a move away from Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night for a fee which could eventually rise to £45million.
The popular Portuguese forward netted 44 goals in 131 games for Wolves after joining the club, initially on loan, from Atletico Madrid in 2017.
He was instrumental in Wolves winning the Championship title and played a huge part in taking the club to an FA Cup semi-final and the Europa League quarter-finals during his stay at Molineux.
Jota joined Wolves at the same time as midfielder Neves, who has also been integral to the team's rise under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Prior to joining Wolves, Jota spent a season on loan at FC Porto where he was a teammate of Neves and the pair are now fully-fledged internationals with their country.
And Neves, who has himself pledged his immediate future to Wolves recently, has reacted to Jota's move to Anfield.
Posting a picture of the pair celebrating one of Jota's three Wolves hat-tricks on Instagram, Neves said: "Four years. It was a pleasure."
Jota is scheduled to make his first return to Molineux on March 13 next year.


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Clarke, Davis, Toral - Every word from Aitor Karanka as Blues draw

Aitor Karanka cut a satisfied figure after seeing his Birmingham City side grind out a draw at Swansea City .
Blues more than played their part in a rather uneventful 0-0 draw , with the only noteworthy incident a clash between Swansea coach Alan Tate and Jon Toral .
Karanka was asked about that , links with Jack Clarke and the absence of Maikel Kieftenbeld and David Davis .
“ I am really pleased it is the second game , another game against a team which was in the playoffs last year .
“ It has been a really good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really committed and organised team on the pitch , with an amazing attitude .
“ It is time to build and the main step in the building process is to have that commitment.
” Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter here It is satisfying but for me a clean sheet means much more than to not concede goals , it means commitment of everybody .
It means to have our ‘ keepers like Zach or Neil the last two games not having a lot of work – when we needed them they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have 11 players on the pitch and seven on the bench always encouraging and supporting each other .
“ The more time we have the better we will play and then we have the quality , when Jonathan Leko joins us it will be another one , just keep improving and keep growing.
” What did you think of the Alan Tate shove ?
“ I didn ’ t see anything because I was in the tunnel .
When I looked back I couldn ’ t see anything .
“ The only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was to forget what happened .
I don ’ t care about what happened in the tunnel – the players showed their spirit on the pitch.
” Was it out of order ?
“ I can ’ t tell you because I didn ’ t see anything .
I don ’ t know what happened.
” “ The referee has done what he has done .
If the referee has seen something and not done anything then I don ’ t think he ’ s doing his job .
If he didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he didn ’ t see anything.
” Will the club bring the footage to the attention of the referee ?
“ I don ’ t know , my job is to train – let ’ s see .
I prefer to not saying anything because I don ’ t want to make a mistake .
My aim to improve the team , win games and be as high as possible in the table and the club will do what is good for the club , for sure.
” Etheridge save at the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but today was Neil , last Saturday was a teenage keeper and it was the same .
When we needed them both of them were in position .
For me to have two keepers like them and Andres is really important .
“ But more than for me as a coach , for the defenders .
I used to be a defender and when you know you have a proper keeper and he is calm behind you – today Neil , last Saturday Jack , is better because the confidence is growing.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think we don ’ t have any injuries – just Jonathan Leko – it was my decision .
I have to bring just 18 players , I can ’ t put 23 on .
“ I have to be fair with the players .
I chose this 18-19 to come today.
” Does that suggests they could be leaving ?
“ I think it is their decision .
I told , especially David , his situation .
Maikel has done an amazing pre-season but players have come like Clayton , Gazza was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have to take that decision .
It is difficult because Maikel is a top professional , he got injured last year and it was a difficult year for him but with me since the very beginning he has been really good but today I had to choose other players.
” Can you tell us anything about Jack Clarke ?
“ Jack Clarke ?
Tottenham ?
No .
Normally I don ’ t speak with the club about players today , yesterday was my birthday so I didn ’ t have time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to celebrate my birthday !
”

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Aitor Karanka cut a satisfied figure after seeing his Birmingham City side grind out a draw at Swansea City.
Blues more than played their part in a rather uneventful 0-0 draw, with the only noteworthy incident a clash between Swansea coach Alan Tate and Jon Toral.
Karanka was asked about that, links with Jack Clarke and the absence of Maikel Kieftenbeld and David Davis.
Here’s the transcript of yesterday’s press conference.
What’s your assessment
“I am really pleased it is the second game, another game against a team which was in the playoffs last year.
“It has been a really good performance again. I could see a really committed and organised team on the pitch, with an amazing attitude.
“It is time to build and the main step in the building process is to have that commitment.”
Clean sheet
It is satisfying but for me a clean sheet means much more than to not concede goals, it means commitment of everybody.
It means to have our ‘keepers like Zach or Neil the last two games not having a lot of work – when we needed them they were there.
“The commitment is to have 11 players on the pitch and seven on the bench always encouraging and supporting each other.
“The more time we have the better we will play and then we have the quality, when Jonathan Leko joins us it will be another one, just keep improving and keep growing.”
What did you think of the Alan Tate shove?
“I didn’t see anything because I was in the tunnel. When I looked back I couldn’t see anything.
“The only thing I told them at half time was to forget what happened. I don’t care about what happened in the tunnel – the players showed their spirit on the pitch.”
Was it out of order?
“I can’t tell you because I didn’t see anything. I don’t know what happened.”
Surprised no red?
“The referee has done what he has done. If the referee has seen something and not done anything then I don’t think he’s doing his job. If he didn’t say anything it’s because he didn’t see anything.”
Will the club bring the footage to the attention of the referee?
“I don’t know, my job is to train – let’s see. I prefer to not saying anything because I don’t want to make a mistake. My aim to improve the team, win games and be as high as possible in the table and the club will do what is good for the club, for sure.”
Etheridge save at the end – money well spent?
“Yes but today was Neil, last Saturday was a teenage keeper and it was the same. When we needed them both of them were in position. For me to have two keepers like them and Andres is really important.
“But more than for me as a coach, for the defenders. I used to be a defender and when you know you have a proper keeper and he is calm behind you – today Neil, last Saturday Jack, is better because the confidence is growing.”
Davis and Kieftenbeld available?
“Yes, all of them. I think we don’t have any injuries – just Jonathan Leko – it was my decision. I have to bring just 18 players, I can’t put 23 on.
“I have to be fair with the players. I chose this 18-19 to come today.”
(Image: PA)
Does that suggests they could be leaving?
“I think it is their decision. I told, especially David, his situation. Maikel has done an amazing pre-season but players have come like Clayton, Gazza was injured. Now he is fit, I have to take that decision.
It is difficult because Maikel is a top professional, he got injured last year and it was a difficult year for him but with me since the very beginning he has been really good but today I had to choose other players.”
Can you tell us anything about Jack Clarke?
“Jack Clarke? Tottenham? No. Normally I don’t speak with the club about players today, yesterday was my birthday so I didn’t have time to speak with the club. I have to celebrate my birthday!”


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Everything Slaven Bilic said after Everton beat West Brom

In the second half , when you ’ re 2-1 down , away from home , and a man down , anything can happen .
You can imagine it can be five .
We should be disappointed with the result , going home with nothing , especially after that first half performance .
To be 2-1 down and one man down after that 45 minutes was very frustrating .
The way we played , the way we were tactically , the way we were pressing , the way we were on and off the ball .
Our chances we created @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was a great performance , of course knowing that in some positions they have players that can make a difference .
And they did it for the second goal .
We were compact and totally in control of the game , and to be 2-1 down and one man , it was very frustrating for us .
We didn ’ t deserve it .
In many cases , we have only ourselves to blame .
Why should you sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store Difference between Leicester game and this ?
We were braver .
It was the same system , and I saw it against Leicester - the spaces , the channels and bouncing of the ball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could hurt Leicester and , with a bit more bravery and better decision making , we could have .
Here , we had those spaces even more .
Especially down the left side .
We detected that as a possibility to have it .
If we ’ re on fire , brave , good distance between the players - we had it all .
We were using it in a really good way .
At the same time we were in a good shape when we were defending .
It affected the game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ red card , it ’ s very difficult to come back .
We came back for a short period of time , but it ’ s difficult to come back from one man down for such a long period of the game .
Agree it was a sending off ?
It ’ s a red card .
I was following the ball .
The problem was ... we only have ourselves to blame .
You can ’ t do those things on any level of football .
When James clipped him , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reacted , based on that he didn ’ t give the referee any other option but to give him a red card .
If he ’ d been more savvy , and gone down after James clipped him , I don ’ t think it ’ d have been a red for James , maybe a yellow at most , then definitely not a red for Gibbs .
He did the worst option , which was not to go down and then react with his hand .
If you do that to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then it ’ s a straight red .
You can ’ t complain .
Conor would ’ ve been with us if the paperwork had been done on time .
All the other decisions on the other players - apart from Hegazi - Kenneth Zohore is fit , they were just football decisions .
What you said to Mike Dean The analysis guys told me it was a foul for us before their first goal .
They should have seen that Dominic Calvert-Lewin is going for the ball and doesn ’ t touch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heading towards goal , it ’ s a foul .
As a manager I should be in a situation to ask the referee what ’ s going on .
It ’ s not like the game was going on , it was half-time - nobody was around .
I didn ’ t swear .
I asked him in a frustrated way but I didn ’ t go over the line .
But he just ignored me and gave me red .
As a manager you have that right if you are not crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to kill us , kill us .
That ’ s all .

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Immediate thoughts
In the second half, when you’re 2-1 down, away from home, and a man down, anything can happen. You can imagine it can be five.
We should be disappointed with the result, going home with nothing, especially after that first half performance.
To be 2-1 down and one man down after that 45 minutes was very frustrating. The way we played, the way we were tactically, the way we were pressing, the way we were on and off the ball.
Our chances we created on the counter attacks and long attacks. It was a great performance, of course knowing that in some positions they have players that can make a difference.
And they did it for the second goal. We were compact and totally in control of the game, and to be 2-1 down and one man, it was very frustrating for us. We didn’t deserve it.
In many cases, we have only ourselves to blame.
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 .
Difference between Leicester game and this?
We were braver. It was the same system, and I saw it against Leicester - the spaces, the channels and bouncing of the ball, and getting into positions where we could hurt Leicester and, with a bit more bravery and better decision making, we could have.
Here, we had those spaces even more. Especially down the left side. We detected that as a possibility to have it. If we’re on fire, brave, good distance between the players - we had it all. We were using it in a really good way.
At the same time we were in a good shape when we were defending.
Gibbs’ red card
It affected the game massively. To go 2-1 and a red card, it’s very difficult to come back. We came back for a short period of time, but it’s difficult to come back from one man down for such a long period of the game.
Agree it was a sending off?
It’s a red card. I was following the ball. The problem was...we only have ourselves to blame. You can’t do those things on any level of football.
When James clipped him, he stayed on his feet. Then he reacted, based on that he didn’t give the referee any other option but to give him a red card.
If he’d been more savvy, and gone down after James clipped him, I don’t think it’d have been a red for James, maybe a yellow at most, then definitely not a red for Gibbs.
He did the worst option, which was not to go down and then react with his hand. If you do that to a player who is waiting for it, then it’s a straight red. You can’t complain.
(Image: Getty Images)
On Gallagher, Austin, Grosicki and Zohore
Conor would’ve been with us if the paperwork had been done on time.
All the other decisions on the other players - apart from Hegazi - Kenneth Zohore is fit, they were just football decisions.
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What you said to Mike Dean
The analysis guys told me it was a foul for us before their first goal. They should have seen that Dominic Calvert-Lewin is going for the ball and doesn’t touch it. The reason Darnell Furlong is heading towards goal, it’s a foul.
As a manager I should be in a situation to ask the referee what’s going on. It’s not like the game was going on, it was half-time - nobody was around. I didn’t swear.
I asked him in a frustrated way but I didn’t go over the line. But he just ignored me and gave me red. As a manager you have that right if you are not crossing the line. I told him if you want to kill us, kill us. That’s all.


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Klopp clears path for Villa target Brewster to move - reports

Rhian Brewster has reportedly been told to leave Liverpool amid transfer interest from Aston Villa .
Brewster , 20 , is hot property after an excellent spell in the Championship with Swansea City where he scored 11 times in 22 matches .
A number of Premier League clubs have expressed an interest in signing Brewster , who could be available either permanently or on loan , and Villa are said to be one of them .
The Villans could still strengthen in attack following the club-record signing of Ollie Watkins and the arrival of Bertrand Traore from Lyon .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press today , Brewster has been told by Jurgen Klopp that he needs to leave Liverpool to realise is first team ambitions .
The Reds have just announced the signing of Diogo Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal which could reach £45million and that has pushed Brewster further down the pecking order .
While Villa have been linked , Sheffield United are the club who have made the strongest play for Brewster during this window .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Milot Rashica transfer updates Why should you sign up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a move for the Werder Bremen star , with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival .
With that in mind , we will bring you all the news around the Albanian winger 's future .
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 .
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@ @ @ @ @ @ @ news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Speaking to YorkshireLive , their manager Chris Wilder said : `` We have made an enquiry .
I am not going to mug everybody off by saying there has n't been an enquiry .
`` I have spoken to the manager and the club has spoken to Liverpool - that situation has been left for the CEO to speak and I will get my answers off him regarding Rhian and other targets as well .
`` We are looking in that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list of players and like everybody else you don ’ t just zone in on one player .
`` We ca n't , we have to be open-minded and that and it is what we are being . ''

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Rhian Brewster has reportedly been told to leave Liverpool amid transfer interest from Aston Villa.
Brewster, 20, is hot property after an excellent spell in the Championship with Swansea City where he scored 11 times in 22 matches.
A number of Premier League clubs have expressed an interest in signing Brewster, who could be available either permanently or on loan, and Villa are said to be one of them.
The Villans could still strengthen in attack following the club-record signing of Ollie Watkins and the arrival of Bertrand Traore from Lyon.
And, according to reports in the national press today, Brewster has been told by Jurgen Klopp that he needs to leave Liverpool to realise is first team ambitions.
The Reds have just announced the signing of Diogo Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal which could reach £45million and that has pushed Brewster further down the pecking order.
While Villa have been linked, Sheffield United are the club who have made the strongest play for Brewster during this window.
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Morgan Sanson transfer updates Why should you sign up? Villa have been strongly linked with a move for the Marseille star, with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival. With that in mind, we will bring you all the news around the French midfielder's future. 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
Speaking to YorkshireLive, their manager Chris Wilder said: "We have made an enquiry. I am not going to mug everybody off by saying there hasn't been an enquiry.
"I have spoken to the manager and the club has spoken to Liverpool - that situation has been left for the CEO to speak and I will get my answers off him regarding Rhian and other targets as well.
"We are looking in that position. Obviously, we have a list of players and like everybody else you don’t just zone in on one player.
"We can't, we have to be open-minded and that and it is what we are being."


birminghammail--2020-09-20--See inside the 'spectacular' £3m country home

An incredible seven-bedroom country home with stunning views of Worcestershire could be yours for a cool £3.25 million .
The @ @ @ @ @ Droitwich has far reaching views over the Severn Valley and comes with a recently constructed @ @ @ @ @ square feet .
You can check out some pictures of this amazing property in the @ @ @ @ @ garaging and outbuildings , extensive pastures and boundary woodland .
The advert on Rightmove reads @ @ @ @ @ as its name suggests , occupies a spectacular elevated position with far reaching views over @ @ @ @ @ Severn Valley within Worcestershire .
`` The estate extends to circa 40 acres and encompasses @ @ @ @ @ Listed country home , set in manicured mature gardens , in addition to a recently @ @ @ @ @ 21,000 square feet .
`` The main residence , approached via a gated Walnut tree-lined @ @ @ @ @ centre of the estate with additional garaging and outbuildings , extensive pastures and boundary woodland @ @ @ @ @

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An incredible seven-bedroom country home with stunning views of Worcestershire could be yours for a cool £3.25 million.
The property in Victoria Square, Droitwich has far reaching views over the Severn Valley and comes with a recently constructed equestrian centre of some 21,000 square feet.
You can check out some pictures of this amazing property in the gallery below.
It boasts garaging and outbuildings, extensive pastures and boundary woodland.
The advert on Rightmove reads: "Elm Hill, as its name suggests, occupies a spectacular elevated position with far reaching views over the undulating landscape of the Severn Valley within Worcestershire.
"The estate extends to circa 40 acres and encompasses an exquisitely renovated Grade II Listed country home, set in manicured mature gardens, in addition to a recently constructed equestrian centre of some 21,000 square feet.
"The main residence, approached via a gated Walnut tree-lined avenue, lies at the centre of the estate with additional garaging and outbuildings, extensive pastures and boundary woodland completing the picture."


birminghammail--2020-09-20--Mum who converted to Islam goes on week rations to eat like a refugee

Hannah Keeling , 23 , from Hall Green knows first hand what racism and Islamophobia looks like .
Growing up in Tamworth she says she has witnessed a lifetime of racial slurs and xenophobia since primary school from those around her .
Life as a Muslim woman is fairly new to Hannah as she converted officially to the Islamic faith in January 2019 .
Ever since she has been met with a barrage of hate filled comments , she has been forced to keep her faith private on her own social media .
`` I just do n't post in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive hate , '' she said .
Hannah has now gone a week eating like a Syrian migrant in a Jordan refugee camp to show how we 're all equal human beings .
And with her newfound faith Hannah wants to shut down religious ignorance everywhere in Birmingham .
`` Being a revert Muslim it is crazy what I ’ ve witnessed from people , '' said Hannah .
`` Before I used to wear a scarf I used to be approached by people who would say crazy things .
`` I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her workplace .
A woman with a Niqab walked past and the lady just said : 'that 's why we have no homes , our people are on the streets ' .
`` But I said there are drug addicts who have homes . ''
Hannah who now lives in Hall Green grew up a world apart in Tamworth .
She says life growing up was blighted by ignorance and racial slurs .
`` Tamworth is n't nice as it is made it to be , '' she said .
`` I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Tamworth but I do n't think anyone would want to wear it .
`` You would most likely be shouted at by a car .
Someone could rip it off and shout that you ’ re a terrorist . ''
Coronavirus latest updates - how to get our free newsletter in your inbox There 's no doubt that Covid-19 has had a huge impact on all our lives .
Birmingham has seen thousands of deaths as a result of coronavirus and one hospital trust in the city has recorded higher deaths than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ongoing coronavirus pandemic , it can be hard to know where to turn for the latest news and information .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store '' They do n't have any mosque or any halal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meat cooked at their restaurant wo n't advertise it .
`` When I was growing up there were two black kids and two Asian kids at my entire high school .
I had a friend who said their dad was part of the EDL .
`` I realised I was n't going to listen to people in my hometown .
Muslims can be any shape and colour .
It is a religion of peace . ''
In an effort to raise awareness and donations for Syrian migrants living in refugee camps in Jordan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She was sent a box of food that refugees would eat and given the option to add just a few additional items .
Shockingly she was n't able to drink anything else besides water .
All Hannah had to pick from for seven days were : rice , cooking oil , chickpeas , lentils , flour and tofu .
At midnight on Monday , September 7 , after downing her last big feast for a week , she began her journey .
`` The first day I had one meal which was rice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The meal was n't too bad , it is not something I would choose to eat out of the blue .
`` I tend to like my chicken but make food with flavour .
`` It was very bland and it does n't help that I was cooking for my daughter as well .
But it is meant to just help you survive and be somewhat nutritious . ''
On Tuesday for lunch and dinner she made fried rice with half of her tofu allowance , splitting it into two meals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter who she fed normal meals , with the new challenge began to take its toll .
`` On Tuesday and Wednesday I took my daughter to nursery in Solihull .
I had to stay because I did n't have enough time to go back home .
On Wednesday I ended up having dhaal .
I used all my lentil allowance to mix some spices .
`` I had that for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast on Thursday .
`` I had it cold for lunch and with flatbread , one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooked . ''
On Thursday the fried rice made another appearance despite it not being `` too fried this time . ''
On the fifth day with supplies running low Hannah was forced to get more creative .
Using her leftover chickpeas , soaking them in water and blending them together she made falafel .
`` I blended it with spices and flour , '' she said , `` you ca n't blend it too much or it will turn into hummus .
`` Friday was a weird day for me .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fruit and veg . ''
With the end in sight at the weekend and rations at a desperate low , Hannah was forced to eat nothing but rice for lunch and dinner .
`` Looking back I think I did really well , especially balancing a child , taking her to nursery , and maintaining a home .
It was challenging .
I could have given up plenty of times and donated myself but I kept at it .
`` My body is still adjusting now in all sorts of ways and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting headaches a lot of the days .
`` I raised £166 .
£167 feeds a refugee for a whole year , it can provide a medical visit .
It has made me understand a lot more about the experiences , a little bit closer to an understanding .
`` It brought awareness of refugee suffering .
It raised awareness and not just some money . ''

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Hannah Keeling, 23, from Hall Green knows first hand what racism and Islamophobia looks like. Growing up in Tamworth she says she has witnessed a lifetime of racial slurs and xenophobia since primary school from those around her.
Life as a Muslim woman is fairly new to Hannah as she converted officially to the Islamic faith in January 2019.
Ever since she has been met with a barrage of hate filled comments, she has been forced to keep her faith private on her own social media.
"I just don't post in my hijab because I know I will receive hate," she said.
Hannah has now gone a week eating like a Syrian migrant in a Jordan refugee camp to show how we're all equal human beings. And with her newfound faith Hannah wants to shut down religious ignorance everywhere in Birmingham.
(Image: Hannah Keeling)
"Being a revert Muslim it is crazy what I’ve witnessed from people," said Hannah. "Before I used to wear a scarf I used to be approached by people who would say crazy things.
"I was talking about housing with a lady outside her workplace. A woman with a Niqab walked past and the lady just said: 'that's why we have no homes, our people are on the streets'.
"But I said there are drug addicts who have homes."
Hannah who now lives in Hall Green grew up a world apart in Tamworth. She says life growing up was blighted by ignorance and racial slurs.
"Tamworth isn't nice as it is made it to be," she said. "I don't think anyone should wear a Niqab in Tamworth but I don't think anyone would want to wear it.
"You would most likely be shouted at by a car. Someone could rip it off and shout that you’re a terrorist."
"They don't have any mosque or any halal meat. Any place that has halal meat cooked at their restaurant won't advertise it.
"When I was growing up there were two black kids and two Asian kids at my entire high school. I had a friend who said their dad was part of the EDL.
"I realised I wasn't going to listen to people in my hometown. Muslims can be any shape and colour. It is a religion of peace."
(Image: Hannah Keeling)
In an effort to raise awareness and donations for Syrian migrants living in refugee camps in Jordan, Hannah joined the Ration Challenge.
She was sent a box of food that refugees would eat and given the option to add just a few additional items. Shockingly she wasn't able to drink anything else besides water.
All Hannah had to pick from for seven days were: rice, cooking oil, chickpeas, lentils, flour and tofu.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
At midnight on Monday, September 7, after downing her last big feast for a week, she began her journey.
"The first day I had one meal which was rice, beans and I added some spices.
"The meal wasn't too bad, it is not something I would choose to eat out of the blue.
(Image: Hannah Keeling)
"I tend to like my chicken but make food with flavour.
"It was very bland and it doesn't help that I was cooking for my daughter as well. But it is meant to just help you survive and be somewhat nutritious."
On Tuesday for lunch and dinner she made fried rice with half of her tofu allowance, splitting it into two meals.
(Image: Hannah Keeling)
By Wednesday, balancing her small daughter who she fed normal meals, with the new challenge began to take its toll.
"On Tuesday and Wednesday I took my daughter to nursery in Solihull. I had to stay because I didn't have enough time to go back home. On Wednesday I ended up having dhaal. I used all my lentil allowance to mix some spices.
"I had that for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast on Thursday.
"I had it cold for lunch and with flatbread, one was extremely burnt, the other lightly cooked."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
On Thursday the fried rice made another appearance despite it not being "too fried this time." On the fifth day with supplies running low Hannah was forced to get more creative. Using her leftover chickpeas, soaking them in water and blending them together she made falafel.
"I blended it with spices and flour," she said, "you can't blend it too much or it will turn into hummus.
"Friday was a weird day for me. I was raving something sweet, mostly craving fruit and veg."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
With the end in sight at the weekend and rations at a desperate low, Hannah was forced to eat nothing but rice for lunch and dinner.
"Looking back I think I did really well, especially balancing a child, taking her to nursery, and maintaining a home. It was challenging. I could have given up plenty of times and donated myself but I kept at it.
"My body is still adjusting now in all sorts of ways and it was only a week. I was getting headaches a lot of the days.
"I raised £166. £167 feeds a refugee for a whole year, it can provide a medical visit. It has made me understand a lot more about the experiences, a little bit closer to an understanding.
"It brought awareness of refugee suffering. It raised awareness and not just some money."


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Sky Sports pundits deliver Wolves verdict after Man City defeat

Sky Sports pundits Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards believe Wolves can take heart from their second-half performance against Manchester City .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's men were beaten 3-1 by last season 's Premier League runners-up at Molineux on Monday night .
Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring from the penalty spot and Phil Foden doubled the visitors ' lead before the break .
Wolves responded after the interval and pulled one back through Raul Jimenez .
But as they pressed for an equaliser , Man City sealed victory courtesy of a late goal from Gabriel Jesus .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the fact that it was the first game , '' said Carragher on the Monday Night Football show .
`` I looked at ( Manchester ) United , who were sluggish the first game , Liverpool and Spurs as well .
`` I thought it would be difficult at Wolves .
But the way they came out in the first-half , not just with the quality of the ball but with the pressing as well .
`` The full-backs were really high up the pitch and it was a statement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know where teams are fitness-wise , it ’ s so difficult to judge teams in these early games , but I thought City were outstanding in the first half . ''
Former Man City and Aston Villa defender Richards said : `` Wolves were fantastic in the second half .
`` ( Adama ) Traore is such a thorn in Man City 's side .
`` City dropped off the pace a little bit and Wolves , for some reason , always seem to come out the blocks in the second half .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mark him in training plenty of times - and I do n't know what to do !
`` I physically do n't know how to mark him .
Before , when I was at Aston Villa , I used to show him down the line because he 'd cross it out of play .
But he 's improved so much .
`` Wolves have turned into a real top team - almost overnight . ''
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carragher added : `` They ( Wolves ) started going after City and you think : 'Why did n't you do that in the beginning ? '
`` But that 's how they play , and they get success from it .
`` I 've spoken about them as a team that could really push for the top four .
`` I think this is a brilliant win for Man City .
I know it 's the first game of the season and maybe people will say : 'You should beat Wolves ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top teams in European football .
`` But Wolves away is a tough game , certainly being the first .
I think Pep Guardiola inside will have thought this was going to be a really tough game , and to get out with three points , they would need to put in a really top performance .
`` I think it 's a great night for City . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Bobby Vincent, Chris Watson)

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Sky Sports pundits Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards believe Wolves can take heart from their second-half performance against Manchester City.
Nuno Espirito Santo's men were beaten 3-1 by last season's Premier League runners-up at Molineux on Monday night.
Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring from the penalty spot and Phil Foden doubled the visitors' lead before the break.
Wolves responded after the interval and pulled one back through Raul Jimenez.
But as they pressed for an equaliser, Man City sealed victory courtesy of a late goal from Gabriel Jesus.
“I thought City would lose tonight, just because of the fact that it was the first game," said Carragher on the Monday Night Football show.
"I looked at (Manchester) United, who were sluggish the first game, Liverpool and Spurs as well.
"I thought it would be difficult at Wolves. But the way they came out in the first-half, not just with the quality of the ball but with the pressing as well.
"The full-backs were really high up the pitch and it was a statement, really, because we don’t know where teams are fitness-wise, it’s so difficult to judge teams in these early games, but I thought City were outstanding in the first half."
Former Man City and Aston Villa defender Richards said: "Wolves were fantastic in the second half.
"(Adama) Traore is such a thorn in Man City's side.
"City dropped off the pace a little bit and Wolves, for some reason, always seem to come out the blocks in the second half.
"Traore - I've tried to mark him in training plenty of times - and I don't know what to do!
"I physically don't know how to mark him. Before, when I was at Aston Villa, I used to show him down the line because he'd cross it out of play. But he's improved so much.
"Wolves have turned into a real top team - almost overnight."
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Carragher added: "They (Wolves) started going after City and you think: 'Why didn't you do that in the beginning?'
"But that's how they play, and they get success from it.
"I've spoken about them as a team that could really push for the top four.
"I think this is a brilliant win for Man City. I know it's the first game of the season and maybe people will say: 'You should beat Wolves', because City are one of the top teams in European football.
"But Wolves away is a tough game, certainly being the first. I think Pep Guardiola inside will have thought this was going to be a really tough game, and to get out with three points, they would need to put in a really top performance.
"I think it's a great night for City."


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Nuno responds to questions over Nelson Semedo transfer

Nuno Espirito Santo has declined to comment on Wolverhampton Wanderers ’ pursuit of Barcelona right-back Nelson Semedo .
Semedo , 26 , is on the verge of joining Wolves after a deal was struck with Barcelona over the weekend .
It ’ s understood the fee for Semedo will be in the region of £30million and will take Wolves ’ spending this transfer window towards the £100million mark if you include the signing of Vitinha , which is set to be made permanent next summer .
Nuno revealed over the weekend that Matt Doherty ’ s replacement had been identified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Semedo after Wolves ’ defeat to Manchester City , he remained tight-lipped .
“ We had our targets identified and we have them , ” he said .
“ We are working on them .
I 'm sorry but I can not go much further than this .
Let ’ s wait for things to be clear .
“ Until the transfer window is closed we must balance our squad.
” Semedo will become Wolves ’ fifth signing of the window following the arrivals of £35million record signing Fabio Silva , Marcal @ @ @ @ @ @

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Nuno Espirito Santo has declined to comment on Wolverhampton Wanderers’ pursuit of Barcelona right-back Nelson Semedo.
Semedo, 26, is on the verge of joining Wolves after a deal was struck with Barcelona over the weekend.
It’s understood the fee for Semedo will be in the region of £30million and will take Wolves’ spending this transfer window towards the £100million mark if you include the signing of Vitinha, which is set to be made permanent next summer.
Nuno revealed over the weekend that Matt Doherty’s replacement had been identified but, when quizzed about the deal for Semedo after Wolves’ defeat to Manchester City, he remained tight-lipped.
“We had our targets identified and we have them,” he said. “We are working on them. I'm sorry but I cannot go much further than this. Let’s wait for things to be clear.
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“Until the transfer window is closed we must balance our squad.”
Semedo will become Wolves’ fifth signing of the window following the arrivals of £35million record signing Fabio Silva, Marcal, Vitinha and Ki-Jana Hoever.


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Boris will tell Parliament pubs must close at 10pm

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to announce new national restrictions to tackle the spread of coronavirus , as cases continue to rise in the UK and across Europe .
Downing Street has confirmed that he will say all pubs , bars , restaurants and other hospitality venues must close at 10pm , from Thursday September 24 .
And they will also be restricted by law to providing table service only .
Unlike recent local restrictions , these new measures will apply across the whole of England .
The Prime Minister will make an announcement in the House of Commons on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs will have the chance to ask questions .
Mr Johnson will then make a televised address to the nation , at 8pm .
The Prime Minister will talk about the role everyone can continue to play in tackling the spread of the virus , including by following the social distancing guidance , wearing face coverings and washing hands regularly .
He will also talk about further ways his government will fight coronavirus , but no details about this portion of his speech have been released so far .
The Cabinet will meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Parliament .
Mr Johnson will also chair the Government 's emergency COBR committee , with Cabinet Ministers and the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales , to discuss the surge in cases .
A Number 10 spokesman said : `` No-one under-estimates the challenges the new measures will pose to many individuals and businesses .
We know this won ’ t be easy , but we must take further action to control the resurgence in cases of the virus and protect the NHS.
” New national restrictions will come on top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes the national `` rule of six '' , barring gatherings of more than six people , and the local restrictions in Birmingham , Solihull , Sandwell and Wolverhampton , which bar people from different households from being together at all , in private homes or gardens .
It follows a weekend of activity .
On Saturday , the Cabinet was briefed by Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty , Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and the Government 's Chief Economist , Clare Lombardelli .
On Sunday evening , the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summit to hear scientific views from across the spectrum .
On Monday the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser gave a public briefing on the latest coronavirus data .
They said the number of cases is currently doubling around every seven days , and if we continue on this trajectory , this could lead to 50,000 cases a day by the middle of October - leading to more than 200 deaths every day .
The COVID-19 alert level has moved from Level 3 to Level 4 after the data showed the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday , Sir Patrick Vallance said that in mid-September , around 3,000 new cases were recorded every day in the UK and if the growth continued unabated that would result in 50,000 cases by the middle of October .
He warned the “ 50,000 cases per day would be expected to lead a month later , so the middle of November , say , to 200-plus deaths per day ” .
“ The challenge therefore is to make sure the doubling time does not stay at seven days.
” Prof Chris Whitty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our rescue ” but “ in this period of the next six months , I think we have to realise that we have to take this , collectively , very seriously ” .
The Government said that as of 9am on Monday , there had been a further 4,368 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK .

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to announce new national restrictions to tackle the spread of coronavirus, as cases continue to rise in the UK and across Europe.
Downing Street has confirmed he will say all pubs, bars, restaurants and other hospitality venues must close at 10pm, from Thursday September 24.
And they will also be restricted by law to providing table service only.
Unlike recent local restrictions, the new measures will apply across the whole of England. The Prime Minister will make an announcement in the House of Commons on Tuesday, September 22, when MPs will have the chance to ask questions.
Mr Johnson will then make a televised address to the nation, at 8pm.
The Prime Minister will talk about the role everyone can continue to play in tackling the spread of the virus, including by following the social distancing guidance, wearing face coverings and washing hands regularly.
He will also talk about further ways his government will fight coronavirus, but no details about this portion of his speech have been released so far.
The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday morning, before the statement to Parliament. Mr Johnson will also chair the Government's emergency COBR committee, with Cabinet Ministers and the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales, to discuss the surge in cases.
A Number 10 spokesman said: "No-one under-estimates the challenges the new measures will pose to many individuals and businesses. We know this won’t be easy, but we must take further action to control the resurgence in cases of the virus and protect the NHS.”
New national restrictions will come on top of all the measures previously announced. That includes the national "rule of six", barring gatherings of more than six people, and the local restrictions in Birmingham, Solihull, Sandwell and Wolverhampton, which bar people from different households from being together at all, in private homes or gardens.
It follows a weekend of activity. On Saturday, the Cabinet was briefed by Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and the Government's Chief Economist, Clare Lombardelli. On Sunday evening, the Prime Minister and Chancellor Rishi Sunak held a special summit to hear scientific views from across the spectrum.
On Monday the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser gave a public briefing on the latest coronavirus data. They said the number of cases is currently doubling around every seven days, and if we continue on this trajectory, this could lead to 50,000 cases a day by the middle of October - leading to more than 200 deaths every day.
The COVID-19 alert level has moved from Level 3 to Level 4 after the data showed the number of cases was rising rapidly.
Speaking on Monday, Sir Patrick Vallance said that in mid-September, around 3,000 new cases were recorded every day in the UK and if the growth continued unabated that would result in 50,000 cases by the middle of October.
He warned the “50,000 cases per day would be expected to lead a month later, so the middle of November, say, to 200-plus deaths per day”.
“The challenge therefore is to make sure the doubling time does not stay at seven days.”
Prof Chris Whitty suggested that science would eventually “ride to our rescue” but “in this period of the next six months, I think we have to realise that we have to take this, collectively, very seriously”.
The Government said that as of 9am on Monday, there had been a further 4,368 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK.


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Wolves player ratings as Podence shines in Man City defeat

Manchester City defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-1 at Molineux despite a spirited second half showing from Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s side .
The excellent Kevin De Bruyne ( pen ) and Phil Foden netted in the first half and City held on after half-time despite Wolves reducing the arrears through Raul Jimenez ’ s 78th minute header .
Gabriel Jesus added City 's third in stoppage time , via a deflection off Conor Coady .
City were handed the lead in the 20th minute after Romain Saiss needlessly fouled De Bruyne in the penalty area .
The City midfielder slotted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If City ’ s first was handed to them , their second was incredibly well crafted with De Bruyne again at the heart of it .
De Bruyne played Raheem Sterling in down the left and he squared it for Foden to double City ’ s advantage .
Wolves improved after the break and created four clear-cut chances in the space of six minutes .
Daniel Podence missed the first after being found 12 yards from goal by Adama Traore after one of the Spaniard ’ s trademark runs down the right .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot inches wide of Ederson ’ s post .
Podence was involved in the second as he dummied Pedro Neto ’ s cut-back for Ruben Neves but Kyle Walker was well placed to clear his effort off the line .
Podence then found himself clean through on goal but lifted the ball over Ederson and onto the roof of the net .
In the 60th minute Traore pulled the ball back to Jimenez in almost identical fashion to the goal the Mexican scored against City at Christmas .
But this time Jimenez prodded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did arrive for Jimenez and , unsurprisingly given the way he was playing , Podence was the creator .
The diminutive Portuguese skinned a City defender on the right before crossing perfectly for Jimenez to head home .
Wolves continued to press but City delivered a suckerpunch for good measure with Jesus netting a third in stoppage time .
Patricio didn ’ t stand a chance with City ’ s goals and made a few smart stops to keep them out , particularly one from De Bruyne before half-time with the Belgian through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to attack left Boly horribly exposed on multiple occasions in the first half and De Bruyne caught him out to find Sterling for City ’ s second goal .
Boly managed to reel Traore in a little bit in the second half and Wolves looked much more solid .
Made sure Wolves ’ defence cleaned their act up after half-time and offered plenty of encouragement and direction to those further forward , especially Traore who needed geeing up after a tough first 45 .
Saiss gifted City the lead with a poor , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ penalty and the Moroccan ’ s evening didn ’ t exactly improve .
He was sloppy in possession and couldn ’ t seem to get to grips with the clever runs in behind him all evening from City ’ s midfielders .
He isn ’ t a wing-back but he is Wolves ’ most dangerous attacker .
Nelson Semedo ’ s arrival will see Traore return to more familiar surroundings and he must be salivating at the thought of it .
Traore showed flashes of his attacking brilliance against City with some good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at times and won ’ t be the only Premier League midfielder who struggles to contain De Bruyne this season .
Moutinho gave the Belgian the chance to kill Wolves off on the stroke of half-time with a poor header in midfield .
Fortunately , Patricio bailed him out .
Missed a decent chance but really got Wolves moving in the second half with some swift , accurate passes .
The Brazlian had barely had a kick of the ball before he pulled up with an injury .
Marcal soldiered on for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t caught out defensively while they waited to make the change .
Neto was very quiet in the first half but led the fight after half-time with a high-energy effort .
He was a constant thorn in Fernandinho ’ s side and managed to find space a few times down City ’ s right .
He blitzed Mendy in true Traore style in the build-up to a good chance for Neves which City cleared .
The little Portuguese playmaker grabbed control of the game in the second half and was at the heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ missed a couple of good chances before nutmegging De Bruyne and crossing for Jimenez ’ s goal .
Part of the reason behind Diogo Jota ’ s sale was Nuno ’ s belief in Podence , who is now very much a key player for Wolves .
Jimenez played his part in a much improved attacking display after half-time and netted his second goal of the campaign with a bullet header .
He should have bagged another but skewed his effort wide after Traore found him six yards from goal .
An encouraging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be set for an extended run in the team .
Added some energy in midfield late on as Wolves chased the game .
Put himself about in a brief Premier League debut .

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Manchester City defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-1 at Molineux despite a spirited second half showing from Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
The excellent Kevin De Bruyne (pen) and Phil Foden netted in the first half and City held on after half-time despite Wolves reducing the arrears through Raul Jimenez’s 78th minute header. Gabriel Jesus added City's third in stoppage time, via a deflection off Conor Coady.
City were handed the lead in the 20th minute after Romain Saiss needlessly fouled De Bruyne in the penalty area. The City midfielder slotted home the resulting spot-kick with ease.
If City’s first was handed to them, their second was incredibly well crafted with De Bruyne again at the heart of it.
De Bruyne played Raheem Sterling in down the left and he squared it for Foden to double City’s advantage.
Wolves improved after the break and created four clear-cut chances in the space of six minutes.
Daniel Podence missed the first after being found 12 yards from goal by Adama Traore after one of the Spaniard’s trademark runs down the right. Podence swivelled brilliantly and fired a left-footed shot inches wide of Ederson’s post.
Podence was involved in the second as he dummied Pedro Neto’s cut-back for Ruben Neves but Kyle Walker was well placed to clear his effort off the line.
Podence then found himself clean through on goal but lifted the ball over Ederson and onto the roof of the net.
In the 60th minute Traore pulled the ball back to Jimenez in almost identical fashion to the goal the Mexican scored against City at Christmas. But this time Jimenez prodded wide of goal.
But the goal did arrive for Jimenez and, unsurprisingly given the way he was playing, Podence was the creator. The diminutive Portuguese skinned a City defender on the right before crossing perfectly for Jimenez to head home.
Wolves continued to press but City delivered a suckerpunch for good measure with Jesus netting a third in stoppage time.
Rui Patricio 7
Patricio didn’t stand a chance with City’s goals and made a few smart stops to keep them out, particularly one from De Bruyne before half-time with the Belgian through on goal.
Willy Boly 6
Traore’s desire to attack left Boly horribly exposed on multiple occasions in the first half and De Bruyne caught him out to find Sterling for City’s second goal.
Boly managed to reel Traore in a little bit in the second half and Wolves looked much more solid.
Conor Coady 6
Made sure Wolves’ defence cleaned their act up after half-time and offered plenty of encouragement and direction to those further forward, especially Traore who needed geeing up after a tough first 45.
Romain Saiss 5
Saiss gifted City the lead with a poor, needless challenge on De Bruyne for the penalty and the Moroccan’s evening didn’t exactly improve.
He was sloppy in possession and couldn’t seem to get to grips with the clever runs in behind him all evening from City’s midfielders.
Adama Traore 6.5
He isn’t a wing-back but he is Wolves’ most dangerous attacker.
Nelson Semedo’s arrival will see Traore return to more familiar surroundings and he must be salivating at the thought of it.
Traore showed flashes of his attacking brilliance against City with some good runs and clever cut-backs.
Joao Moutinho 5
Moutinho suffered at times and won’t be the only Premier League midfielder who struggles to contain De Bruyne this season.
Moutinho gave the Belgian the chance to kill Wolves off on the stroke of half-time with a poor header in midfield. Fortunately, Patricio bailed him out.
Ruben Neves 7
Missed a decent chance but really got Wolves moving in the second half with some swift, accurate passes.
Marcal 6
The Brazlian had barely had a kick of the ball before he pulled up with an injury. Marcal soldiered on for a few minutes to ensure Wolves weren’t caught out defensively while they waited to make the change.
Pedro Neto 7
Neto was very quiet in the first half but led the fight after half-time with a high-energy effort.
He was a constant thorn in Fernandinho’s side and managed to find space a few times down City’s right.
He blitzed Mendy in true Traore style in the build-up to a good chance for Neves which City cleared.
Daniel Podence 8
The little Portuguese playmaker grabbed control of the game in the second half and was at the heart of Wolves’ attacking play.
Podence missed a couple of good chances before nutmegging De Bruyne and crossing for Jimenez’s goal.
Part of the reason behind Diogo Jota’s sale was Nuno’s belief in Podence, who is now very much a key player for Wolves.
Raul Jimenez 7
Jimenez played his part in a much improved attacking display after half-time and netted his second goal of the campaign with a bullet header.
He should have bagged another but skewed his effort wide after Traore found him six yards from goal.
SUBS
Ruben Vinagre (for Marcal, 8) 7
An encouraging showing from the youngster who could now be set for an extended run in the team.
Leander Dendoncker (for Moutinho, 78) 6
Added some energy in midfield late on as Wolves chased the game.
Fabio Silva (for Neto, 78) 6
Put himself about in a brief Premier League debut.
Not used: Ruddy, Kilman, Buur, Vitinha


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Dean Smith provides lowdown on Aston Villa's summer signings

Dean Smith firmly believes Aston Villa are better equipped for the Premier League season ahead , and said : `` We look like we 've got better quality and we look a fitter team . ''
The head coach handed Emiliano Martinez , Matty Cash and Ollie Watkins their Villa debuts in the win over Sheffield United following their respective summer transfers .
The Villa chief has made a big point about adding quality over quantity this time around following last summer 's well documented 12-player shopping spree totalling £130 million .
`` They 've both done OK for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Cash and club-record addition Watkins .
`` Ollie 's made a great run to get the other side of John Egan which resulted in the red card .
I think they can both be fairly pleased with their debuts .
`` There 's certainly more to come .
It 's their first look at Premier League football and I believe they 'll get better and better .
We look like we 've got better quality and we look a fitter team at the moment .
To restrict Sheffield United was really pleasing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough for the 1-0 win but Villa 's success wars largely down to Martinez 's super stop to deny John Lundstram 's penalty just before half-time .
`` He did n't have an awful lot to do , '' Smith said of his classy Argentinian .
`` His distribution is really good .
He 's calm , assured .
He 's got a really good personality .
`` To keep a clean sheet and to save a penalty in your first game ...
I 've not seen it back , it looked harsh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to go and make a good save and he 's done that . ''

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Dean Smith firmly believes Aston Villa are better equipped for the Premier League season ahead, and said: "We look like we've got better quality and we look a fitter team."
The head coach handed Emiliano Martinez, Matty Cash and Ollie Watkins their Villa debuts in the win over Sheffield United following their respective summer transfers.
The Villa chief has made a big point about adding quality over quantity this time around following last summer's well documented 12-player shopping spree totalling £130 million.
"They've both done OK for their Premier League debuts," Smith said of Cash and club-record addition Watkins.
"Ollie's made a great run to get the other side of John Egan which resulted in the red card. I think they can both be fairly pleased with their debuts.
"There's certainly more to come. It's their first look at Premier League football and I believe they'll get better and better. We look like we've got better quality and we look a fitter team at the moment. To restrict Sheffield United was really pleasing."
Ezri Konsa's goal was enough for the 1-0 win but Villa's success wars largely down to Martinez's super stop to deny John Lundstram's penalty just before half-time.
"He didn't have an awful lot to do," Smith said of his classy Argentinian. "His distribution is really good. He's calm, assured. He's got a really good personality.
"To keep a clean sheet and to save a penalty in your first game... I've not seen it back, it looked harsh at the time.
"He's had to go and make a good save and he's done that."


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Wilder claims Villa man should have seen red against Sheff Utd

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder was not happy with the decision to send off John Egan early in his side 's 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa .
Wilder also felt that Villa 's Matt Targett could have seen red after conceding a penalty , from which John Lundstram was denied by debutant Emiliano Martinez .
Egan was shown a straight red card for a professional foul on Villa striker Ollie Watkins after only 11 minutes of Monday night 's Premier League clash .
The Republic of Ireland international was adjudged to have pulled back Watkins as they chased a long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scott gave Egan his marching orders and a subsequent Video Assistant Referee ( VAR ) check upheld the decision .
`` It 's difficult to be 100 per cent certain from Graham 's position that both players were n't grappling for the ball , '' said Wilder in his post-match press conference .
`` They were grabbing each other .
The assistant referee had the best position in the place .
`` Then the decision goes somewhere else and I 'm not sure what happens then , to be honest .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dialogue with the assistant .
His reaction was a giveaway .
`` If I 've got this wrong I 'll apologise to everyone but I 've been in the game for a while and I 'm not one for deflecting from my team 's performance .
I do n't think the correct decisions have been given . ''
Despite being down to 10 men , the Blades won a first-half penalty when Targett fouled Chris Basham in the box .
Martinez saved the post kick and Villa went on to win courtesy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I thought that if Targett made an attempt for the ball then it 's possibly not a red card - but he does n't , because the ball is too far away , '' added Wilder .
`` There 's no way in a million years he can make a tackle .
Basham did well to put himself between the man and the ball , and it 's a red card from my point of view .
`` Even if we miss the penalty , it 's still 10 v 10 .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game . ''

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Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder was not happy with the decision to send off John Egan early in his side's 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa.
Wilder also felt that Villa 's Matt Targett could have seen red after conceding a penalty, from which John Lundstram was denied by debutant Emiliano Martinez.
Egan was shown a straight red card for a professional foul on Villa striker Ollie Watkins after only 11 minutes of Monday night's Premier League clash.
The Republic of Ireland international was adjudged to have pulled back Watkins as they chased a long ball over the top.
Referee Graham Scott gave Egan his marching orders and a subsequent Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check upheld the decision.
"It's difficult to be 100 per cent certain from Graham's position that both players weren't grappling for the ball," said Wilder in his post-match press conference.
"They were grabbing each other. The assistant referee had the best position in the place.
"Then the decision goes somewhere else and I'm not sure what happens then, to be honest.
"I don't understand why there wasn't dialogue with the assistant. His reaction was a giveaway.
"If I've got this wrong I'll apologise to everyone but I've been in the game for a while and I'm not one for deflecting from my team's performance. I don't think the correct decisions have been given."
Despite being down to 10 men, the Blades won a first-half penalty when Targett fouled Chris Basham in the box.
Martinez saved the post kick and Villa went on to win courtesy of Ezri Konza's second-half header.
"I thought that if Targett made an attempt for the ball then it's possibly not a red card - but he doesn't, because the ball is too far away," added Wilder.
"There's no way in a million years he can make a tackle. Basham did well to put himself between the man and the ball, and it's a red card from my point of view.
"Even if we miss the penalty, it's still 10 v 10. So it had a huge effect on the game."


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Dean Smith provides update on missing duo & gives Traore verdict

Dean Smith has confirmed £17 million wing wizard Bertrand Traore will make his Aston Villa debut against Bristol City in the Carabao Cup .
The 25-year-old was in the stands watching Villa 's 1-0 win over Sheffield United after a delay in obtaining a work permit following Saturday 's unveiling .
Smith said of the exciting capture from Lyon : `` He could n't have been involved today , obviously .
`` He had to be signed by Friday lunchtime which involved work permits and , with Covid at the moment , we could n't get that done in time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's done now and he 'll be ready for Bristol City .
He brings us extra quality which we need and competition for places is what we want if we 're to be a high-quality team . ''
Villa edged past Sheffield United thanks to Ezri Konsa 's header just after the hour-mark .
Smith 's said of his reinvigorated Aston Villa side : `` Last season was a tough start , a baptism and we had to bed in a lot of players .
`` This season we just felt there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an expectancy from myself that we 'll be much better this season . ''
The head coach left out Mbwana Samatta , below , and Frederic Guilbert from his 18-man squad this evening , with the pair replaced by new arrivals Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash in Villa 's starting XI .
Smith was asked whether the duo could be heading for the exit prior to the October 5 transfer deadline , but said : `` That was just selection .
Players who I believe have done well ( in training ) get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incomings , the boss added : `` I 'm still discussing with Christian ( Purslow ) and Johan ( Lange ) about getting some more in but we 'll have to see . ''

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Dean Smith has confirmed £17 million wing wizard Bertrand Traore will make his Aston Villa debut against Bristol City in the Carabao Cup.
The 25-year-old was in the stands watching Villa's 1-0 win over Sheffield United after a delay in obtaining a work permit following Saturday's unveiling.
Smith said of the exciting capture from Lyon: "He couldn't have been involved today, obviously.
"He had to be signed by Friday lunchtime which involved work permits and, with Covid at the moment, we couldn't get that done in time for tonight.
"All the paperwork's done now and he'll be ready for Bristol City. He brings us extra quality which we need and competition for places is what we want if we're to be a high-quality team."
Villa edged past Sheffield United thanks to Ezri Konsa's header just after the hour-mark. Smith's said of his reinvigorated Aston Villa side: "Last season was a tough start, a baptism and we had to bed in a lot of players.
"This season we just felt there's no newness about it. There's an expectancy from myself that we'll be much better this season."
The head coach left out Mbwana Samatta, below, and Frederic Guilbert from his 18-man squad this evening, with the pair replaced by new arrivals Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash in Villa's starting XI.
(Image: Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
Smith was asked whether the duo could be heading for the exit prior to the October 5 transfer deadline, but said: "That was just selection. Players who I believe have done well (in training) get in the team."
On potential incomings, the boss added: "I'm still discussing with Christian (Purslow) and Johan (Lange) about getting some more in but we'll have to see."


birminghammail--2020-09-21--Arsenal fans react to Emi Martinez debut for Aston Villa

Arsenal fans have been reacting to Emiliano Martinez 's performance on debut for Aston Villa tonight .
Martinez departed the Emirates Stadium for £20 million earlier this month , joining Dean Smith 's side and becoming Villa 's new number one .
Martinez ended his decade at Arsenal filling in for the injured Bernd Leno , who suffered a knee injury in a match against Brighton and Hove Albion after lockdown .
The German is back to full fitness and is Mikel Arteta 's number one , with Martinez opting to leave Arsenal in search of regular football .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store And his career at Villa could n't have got off to a better start , with the Argentine saving a penalty in a 1-0 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans have been giving their reaction , with one fan saying : `` It ca n't get better than that . ''
`` I feel sorry for Arsenal to let go of Emi just like that , '' another added .
`` We sold the wrong keeper , '' a third fan said .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here While a fifth fan said : `` Ca n't believe we sold this guy for £20m , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business in the League . ''
Martinez made 38 appearances in all competitions during his spell at Arsenal , joining the club from Independiente in 2010 .

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birminghammail--2020-09-21--'I didn't even know ' - Aston Villa hero Emi Martinez on THAT penalty save

Aston Villa penalty hero Emiliano Martinez had a dream debut to remember , and said of his stunning stop : `` It feels great , it was like scoring a hat-trick for me ! ''
The Argentinian was launched straight into action by Dean Smith following his £20 million transfer from Arsenal last week .
Martinez , who was a colossal throughout , saved John Lundstrum 's 36th-minute penalty following a Matt Targett trip on Chris Basham .
The stunning stop helped Villa on their way with Ezri Konsa heading home in the second half to give Villa a winning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his spot-kick heroics down to instincts .
He told Sky Sports : `` I did n't even know where to dive to be honest .
Now something I do is follow my instincts and , obviously , penalties are luck and at the end of the day .
I just followed my instincts .
`` All goalkeepers work and watch videos and we watched Sheffield United and their strengths but , like , I said it is just instincts . ''
Martinez , 28 , added : `` It feels great , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : saving a penalty , keeping a clean sheet for me is the best game I could ever play ! ''

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Aston Villa penalty hero Emiliano Martinez had a dream debut to remember, and said of his stunning stop: "It feels great, it was like scoring a hat-trick for me!"
The Argentinian was launched straight into action by Dean Smith following his £20 million transfer from Arsenal last week.
Martinez, who was a colossal throughout, saved John Lundstrum's 36th-minute penalty following a Matt Targett trip on Chris Basham.
The stunning stop helped Villa on their way with Ezri Konsa heading home in the second half to give Villa a winning start.
Martinez, though, put his spot-kick heroics down to instincts.
He told Sky Sports: "I didn't even know where to dive to be honest. Now something I do is follow my instincts and, obviously, penalties are luck and at the end of the day. I just followed my instincts.
"All goalkeepers work and watch videos and we watched Sheffield United and their strengths but, like, I said it is just instincts."
Martinez, 28, added: "It feels great, it was like scoring a hat-trick for me: saving a penalty, keeping a clean sheet for me is the best game I could ever play!"