birminghammail--2020-01-08--Aston Villa player ratings as one man is 'outstanding' against Leicester City

Aston Villa ’ s Carabao Cup semi-final against Leicester City will be decided at Villa Park after a 1-1 first leg draw at the King Power .
Frederic Guilbert gave Villa the lead in the first half against the run of play before Leicester levelled through substitute Kelechi Iheanacho after the break .
Here are our ratings for Dean Smith ’ s men : An outstanding performance .
Nyland was Villa ’ s third choice goalkeeper a matter of weeks ago but put in one of his finest performances against the Foxes .
He stood up to Vardy and Maddison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nothing about Iheanacho ’ s terrific equaliser .
Another good showing from the young centre-back who looks made for this new defensive position on the right of a back three .
For 70-odd minutes Mings was perfect at the back for Villa before he was left exposed by Douglas ’ sluggishness in midfield .
Aside from that Iheanacho side-step , Mings defended wonderfully , making blocks , clearances and interceptions at will .
Hause wasn ’ t far off Mings with a series of headed clearances to thwart the Foxes .
He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Maddison in the second half before Nyland bailed him out .
Guilbert ’ s first goal for Villa should have led to a first leg victory , and he looked more distraught than anyone at the final whistle , but this is far from a bad result for Smith ’ s side .
After showing his predatory instincts inside the box , Guilbert demonstrated his ability to defend at the other end to limit Chilwell ’ s involvement .
Villa fans saw the best and the worst of their Brazilian midfielder .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to block Perez ’ s goalbound effort before gifting the ball to Choudhury in the build up to Leicester ’ s leveller .
He had one chance to pull the trigger on the left of Leicester ’ s box after nice work between Guilbert and Trezeguet but Douglas was easily dispossessed by Soyuncu .
Nakamba recovered well from an early error which presented Vardy with a good chance .
He put himself about in midfield and fed Villa ’ s better ball players when he retrieved possession .
The left-back found life very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pereira .
The Portuguese beat Taylor pretty much every time he went forward and the Foxes ’ best chances came down Villa ’ s left .
El Ghazi spent most of the game in an unfamiliar striking role and justified Smith ’ s selection .
He also set up the goal with a nice piece of wing play and stopped a promising Leicester counter-attack with an intelligent foul .
The Egyptian was a very willing runner and played his part in a couple of smart breakaways , including the one which led to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasions when he was too easily shrugged aside and dispossessed by Leicester ’ s defenders , but his workrate can not be questioned .
It was never going to be a Grealish masterclass with Villa ’ s gameplan to nullify Leicester not playing to his ball-playing strengths .
What Grealish did show was his exceptional ability to retain the ball for long periods and relieve his teammates of pressure .
The watching Gareth Southgate and assistant Steve Holland are well aware of Grealish ’ s talents with the ball but he showed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leicester , and that will have no doubt caught the England manager ’ s eye .
Added an extra body in midfield and used the ball well in the final 20 minutes or so .
The American youngster didn ’ t have many moments on just his second Villa outing but he worked hard to put Leicester ’ s defence under pressure .

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Aston Villa’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Leicester City will be decided at Villa Park after a 1-1 first leg draw at the King Power.
Frederic Guilbert gave Villa the lead in the first half against the run of play before Leicester levelled through substitute Kelechi Iheanacho after the break.
Here are our ratings for Dean Smith’s men:
Formation: 3-4-3
Orjan Nyland 9
An outstanding performance. Nyland was Villa’s third choice goalkeeper a matter of weeks ago but put in one of his finest performances against the Foxes.
He stood up to Vardy and Maddison time and time again but could do nothing about Iheanacho’s terrific equaliser.
Ezri Konsa 8
Another good showing from the young centre-back who looks made for this new defensive position on the right of a back three.
Tyrone Mings 9
For 70-odd minutes Mings was perfect at the back for Villa before he was left exposed by Douglas’ sluggishness in midfield.
Aside from that Iheanacho side-step, Mings defended wonderfully, making blocks, clearances and interceptions at will.
Kortney Hause 8
Hause wasn’t far off Mings with a series of headed clearances to thwart the Foxes. He was undone by a wonderful piece of skill from Maddison in the second half before Nyland bailed him out.
Frederic Guilbert 8
Guilbert’s second goal for Villa should have led to a first leg victory, and he looked more distraught than anyone at the final whistle, but this is far from a bad result for Smith’s side.
After showing his predatory instincts inside the box, Guilbert demonstrated his ability to defend at the other end to limit Chilwell’s involvement.
Douglas Luiz 6.5
Villa fans saw the best and the worst of their Brazilian midfielder. He recovered superbly in the first half to block Perez’s goalbound effort before gifting the ball to Choudhury in the build up to Leicester’s leveller.
He had one chance to pull the trigger on the left of Leicester’s box after nice work between Guilbert and Trezeguet but Douglas was easily dispossessed by Soyuncu.
Marvelous Nakamba 7
Nakamba recovered well from an early error which presented Vardy with a good chance. He put himself about in midfield and fed Villa’s better ball players when he retrieved possession.
Neil Taylor 6
The left-back found life very tough against Leicester’s marauding wing-back Pereira. The Portuguese beat Taylor pretty much every time he went forward and the Foxes’ best chances came down Villa’s left.
Anwar El Ghazi 8
El Ghazi spent most of the game in an unfamiliar striking role and justified Smith’s selection. He also set up the goal with a nice piece of wing play and stopped a promising Leicester counter-attack with an intelligent foul.
Trezeguet 7
The Egyptian was a very willing runner and played his part in a couple of smart breakaways, including the one which led to Guilbert’s goal.
There were occasions when he was too easily shrugged aside and dispossessed by Leicester’s defenders, but his workrate cannot be questioned.
Jack Grealish 8
It was never going to be a Grealish masterclass with Villa’s gameplan to nullify Leicester not playing to his ball-playing strengths.
What Grealish did show was his exceptional ability to retain the ball for long periods and relieve his teammates of pressure.
The watching Gareth Southgate and assistant Steve Holland are well aware of Grealish’s talents with the ball but he showed a wonderful appetite to work without it against Leicester, and that will have no doubt caught the England manager’s eye.
SUBS
Conor Hourihane (for Trezeguet, 67) 6
Added an extra body in midfield and used the ball well in the final 20 minutes or so.
Indiana Vassilev (for El Ghazi, 74) 6
The American youngster didn’t have many moments on just his second Villa outing but he worked hard to put Leicester’s defence under pressure.
Henri Lansbury (for Nakamba, 86) N/A
Not used: Kalinic, Chester, Elmohamady, Jota


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Leicester City 1 Aston Villa 1: Guilbert goal cancelled out by Ihaenacho equaliser

Aston Villa were denied a first leg win at the King Power after Kelechi Ihaenacho struck a late equaliser for Leicester City .
Frederic Guilbert ’ s first strike in claret and blue set Dean Smith ’ s side on their way to victory but Villa will have to finish the job at Villa Park if they are to reach their first major cup final since 2015 .
Leicester started strongly and created three excellent chances before Guilbert gave Villa the lead .
Ayoze Perez was the first to find space inside Villa ’ s box after good work from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deflect his effort inches wide of the post .
While Douglas was diligent in his defending , Marvelous Nakamba was reckless moments later .
He headed the ball over Tyrone Mings and presented Jamie Vardy with a chance that he couldn ’ t take .
Vardy ’ s second sighting of goal was more clear-cut .
He raced onto Perez ’ s pass but couldn ’ t beat Nyland when one-v-one .
The Norwegian , who was Villa ’ s third choice ‘ keeper only two months ago , was rising to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crucial when Villa hit the front inside 28 minutes .
A rare foray forward , started by Trezeguet on the right , led to Anwar El Ghazi crossing for Guilbert to prod home at the far post .
Villa ’ s confidence soared and they almost doubled their lead shortly before half-time through Ezri Konsa .
The defender met Jack Grealish ’ s free-kick but his header cannoned back off the bar .
Villa ’ s back three of Konsa , Mings and Kortney Hause were defending superbly and virtually everything Leicester threw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was headed or kicked into touch .
When Maddison did find a way through , via a clever nutmeg on Hause , Nyland stood up once more to beat his shot away .
And Nyland was again at his best to keep Maddison out when the England star was found inside the box by Ricardo Pereira .
Again , Nyland held his ground at the near post to outwit Maddison .
Villa ’ s goalkeeper was finally beaten by substitute Ihaeanacho in the 74th minute .
Douglas collected Konsa ’ s free-kick but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vardy freed his striker partner who fired home superbly .
Vardy and Caglar Soyuncu tested Nyland as Leicester searched for a winner but Villa held onto a good first leg result .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Alex Dicken, James Rushton)

Aston Villa were denied a first leg win at the King Power after Kelechi Ihaenacho struck a late equaliser for Leicester City.
Frederic Guilbert’s second strike in claret and blue set Dean Smith’s side on their way to victory but Villa will have to finish the job at Villa Park if they are to reach their first major cup final since 2015.
Leicester started strongly and created three excellent chances before Guilbert gave Villa the lead.
Ayoze Perez was the first to find space inside Villa’s box after good work from Dennis Praet but Douglas Luiz recovered well to deflect his effort inches wide of the post.
While Douglas was diligent in his defending, Marvelous Nakamba was reckless moments later. He headed the ball over Tyrone Mings and presented Jamie Vardy with a chance that he couldn’t take.
Vardy’s second sighting of goal was more clear-cut. He raced onto Perez’s pass but couldn’t beat Nyland when one-v-one. The Norwegian, who was Villa’s third choice ‘keeper only two months ago, was rising to the occasion.
And those saves proved crucial when Villa hit the front inside 28 minutes. A rare foray forward, started by Trezeguet on the right, led to Anwar El Ghazi crossing for Guilbert to prod home at the far post.
Villa’s confidence soared and they almost doubled their lead shortly before half-time through Ezri Konsa. The defender met Jack Grealish’s free-kick but his header cannoned back off the bar.
Villa’s back three of Konsa, Mings and Kortney Hause were defending superbly and virtually everything Leicester threw at them in the opening 15 minutes was headed or kicked into touch.
When Maddison did find a way through, via a clever nutmeg on Hause, Nyland stood up once more to beat his shot away.
And Nyland was again at his best to keep Maddison out when the England star was found inside the box by Ricardo Pereira. Again, Nyland held his ground at the near post to outwit Maddison.
Villa’s goalkeeper was finally beaten by substitute Ihaeanacho in the 74th minute. Douglas collected Konsa’s free-kick but was bullied off it too easily and Vardy freed his striker partner who fired home superbly.
Vardy and Caglar Soyuncu tested Nyland as Leicester searched for a winner but Villa held onto a good first leg result.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Reina deal development and Rodriguez and Piatek latest

Hello and welcome to Wednesday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
Villa have completed their first signing of @ @ @ @ @ England international Danny Drinkwater joining in a loan deal from Chelsea until the end of @ @ @ @ @ must still find replacements for Tom Heaton and Wesley Moraes before the end of the @ @ @ @ @ media have linked them with a number of names and we 'll have all the @ @ @ @ @ us as we bring you all the latest news LIVE from Villa Park as we @ @ @ @ @ the action below ...

Hello and welcome to Sunday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
Villa completed their first signing of the transfer window with former England international Danny Drinkwater joining in a loan deal from Chelsea until the end of the season.
Dean Smith's men will now be looking for a replacement for striker Wesley Moraes, who is out for the season, and bolstering the squad ahead of the second half of their Premier League campaign.
We will have all the latest news, rumours and links on any transfer news on incomings and outgoings at Villa Park.
On the pitch, Villa were hammered 6-1 by Manchester City.
So stick with us as we bring you all the latest news LIVE from B6 as we get it.
Follow all the action below...


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Justin Bieber reveals Lyme disease battle in emotional statement

Justin Bieber has told fans he has been battling Lyme disease .
The singer said he will go into more @ @ @ @ @ .
He wrote on Instagram : `` While a lot of people kept saying Justin @ @ @ @ @ on meth etc they failed to realize I 've been recently diagnosed with Lyme disease @ @ @ @ @ had a serious case of chronic mono which affected my skin , brain function , @ @ @ @ @ .
`` These things will be explained further in a docu series I 'm putting @ @ @ @ @ learn all that I 've been battling and OVERCOMING !
! ''
He added : @ @ @ @ @ rough couple years but getting the right treatment that will help treat this so far @ @ @ @ @ be back and better than ever NO CAP . ''

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Justin Bieber has told fans he has been battling Lyme disease.
The singer said he will go into more detail in his upcoming docu-series.
He wrote on Instagram: "While a lot of people kept saying Justin Bieber looks like s***, on meth etc they failed to realize I've been recently diagnosed with Lyme disease, not only that but had a serious case of chronic mono which affected my skin, brain function, energy, and overall health.
"These things will be explained further in a docu series I'm putting on YouTube shortly.. you can learn all that I've been battling and OVERCOMING!!"
He added: "It's been a rough couple years but getting the right treatment that will help treat this so far incurable disease and I will be back and better than ever NO CAP."


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Four royals who stepped back from roles as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle quit duties

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex 's dramatic decision to `` step back '' from their roles is not the first time members of the royal family have quit their formal duties .
The couple 's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to `` fully support '' the Queen .
Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to `` step back '' from the royal family will be `` complicated '' and talks are still at an early stage .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan 's bombshell personal statement before it was issued .
Harry 's great-great-uncle , the former King Edward VIII , famously abdicated in December 1936 to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson .
The royal met socialite Mrs Simpson when she was still married to her second husband Ernest in 1931 and they soon began an affair .
But neither the royal court , the government nor the church would accept a twice-divorced American as queen .
Edward VIII pushed for a morganatic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim on his rights but the government would not accept this and the king decided to abdicate , leaving his brother the Duke of York - the Queen 's father - to take over as George VI .
Harry 's uncle the Duke of York announced last year he was withdrawing from public duties `` for the foreseeable future '' following his disastrous appearance on BBC 's Newsnight .
Andrew 's attempt to explain his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein backfired and he was heavily criticised for showing a lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over his friendship with the disgraced financier .
The duke has only been seen in public a handful of times since the interview and a large number of his major patronages have accepted his resignation and others have distanced themselves from him .
Andrew 's ex-wife the Duchess of York was reportedly frozen out of the royal family when their marriage broke down .
But Sarah Ferguson is still seen regularly at functions with their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie such as Royal Ascot and she attended the wedding of Harry and Meghan in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Princess of Wales said in 1993 that she was reducing her official engagements and would live a more private life , following the announcement the previous year she and Charles were to separate amicably .
Following their divorce in August 1996 , Diana resigned from 93 charities but maintained her associations with six including Centrepoint , the National Aids Trust and Great Ormond Street Hospital for children .
Diana was also stripped of her Her Royal Highness title after the divorce .

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's dramatic decision to "step back" from their roles is not the first time members of the royal family have quit their formal duties.
The couple's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to "fully support" the Queen.
Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to "step back" from the royal family will be "complicated" and talks are still at an early stage.
It is understood that the Queen and the Prince of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan's bombshell personal statement before it was issued.
(Image: Getty Images)
Edward VIII
Harry's great-great-uncle, the former King Edward VIII, famously abdicated in December 1936 to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson.
The royal met socialite Mrs Simpson when she was still married to her second husband Ernest in 1931 and they soon began an affair.
But neither the royal court, the government nor the church would accept a twice-divorced American as queen.
Edward VIII pushed for a morganatic marriage where his wife would have no claim on his rights but the government would not accept this and the king decided to abdicate, leaving his brother the Duke of York - the Queen's father - to take over as George VI.
Prince Andrew
(Image: BBC)
Harry's uncle the Duke of York announced last year he was withdrawing from public duties "for the foreseeable future" following his disastrous appearance on BBC's Newsnight.
Andrew's attempt to explain his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein backfired and he was heavily criticised for showing a lack of empathy towards Epstein's victims and remorse over his friendship with the disgraced financier.
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The duke has only been seen in public a handful of times since the interview and a large number of his major patronages have accepted his resignation and others have distanced themselves from him.
Sarah, Duchess of York
Andrew's ex-wife the Duchess of York was reportedly frozen out of the royal family when their marriage broke down.
But Sarah Ferguson is still seen regularly at functions with their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie such as Royal Ascot and she attended the wedding of Harry and Meghan in 2018.
Princess Diana
(Image: BirminghamLive)
Harry's mother Diana, Princess of Wales said in 1993 that she was reducing her official engagements and would live a more private life, following the announcement the previous year she and Charles were to separate amicably.
Following their divorce in August 1996, Diana resigned from 93 charities but maintained her associations with six including Centrepoint, the National Aids Trust and Great Ormond Street Hospital for children.
Diana was also stripped of her Her Royal Highness title after the divorce.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Explosive Buckingham Palace statement in full after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'step back' from

Explosive Buckingham Palace statement in full after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'step back' from Royal Family

Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to `` step back '' from the royal family will be `` complicated '' and talks are still at an early stage .
It is understood that the Queen and the Prince of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan 's bombshell personal statement before it was issued .
The couple 's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to `` fully support '' the Queen .
But a Palace spokeswoman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage .
`` We understand their desire to take a different approach , but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through . ''
The couple 's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period .
In the ITV programme they spoke about the pressures they have been facing and family rifts , and in a separate move Harry issued a damning statement against the media accusing sections of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple said in their statement : `` After many months of reflection and internal discussions , we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution .
`` We intend to step back as 'senior ' members of the royal family and work to become financially independent , while continuing to fully support Her Majesty the Queen .
`` It is with your encouragement , particularly over the last few years , that we feel prepared to make this adjustment .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the United Kingdom and North America , continuing to honour our duty to the Queen , the Commonwealth , and our patronages .
`` This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born , while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter , including the launch of our new charitable entity . ''
Harry and Meghan have only recently returned from their six-week break spent in the Canadian province of British Columbia with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ royal engagement of the new decade was to visit Canada 's High Commission in central London to thank Canadians in person for the warmth of the welcome they received .
It is likely they will be spending their time in the Commonwealth country when not in UK and may travel to America , Meghan 's homeland and where her mother lives .
Any move to Canada , even for a period of the year , would throw up important questions about Meghan and Harry 's long-term future within the royal family .
Meghan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked in Toronto during her time starring in the popular US drama Suits , and the couple were famously pictured together when Meghan joined her then-boyfriend Harry at the 2017 Invictus Games in the city .
The cost of security for the couple would also be an issue , and as Canada is a realm , a country where the Queen is head of state , it may have to pay for keeping the couple and their son Archie safe .
The couple 's aim to be `` financially independent '' may point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a paid role with an organisation whose aims compliment their own beliefs .
Other members of the monarchy who have salaried jobs include the Queen 's grandchildren Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie and Peter Phillips , who all work for a living .

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Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to "step back" from the royal family will be "complicated" and talks are still at an early stage.
It is understood that the Queen and the Prince of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan's bombshell personal statement before it was issued.
The couple's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to "fully support" the Queen.
But a Palace spokeswoman said: "Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.
"We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through."
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
The couple's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period.
In the ITV programme they spoke about the pressures they have been facing and family rifts, and in a separate move Harry issued a damning statement against the media accusing sections of the press of bullying his wife.
The couple said in their statement: "After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the royal family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty the Queen.
"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment.
"We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to the Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages.
"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity."
Harry and Meghan have only recently returned from their six-week break spent in the Canadian province of British Columbia with their eight-month-old son Archie.
Their first royal engagement of the new decade was to visit Canada's High Commission in central London to thank Canadians in person for the warmth of the welcome they received.
It is likely they will be spending their time in the Commonwealth country when not in UK and may travel to America, Meghan's homeland and where her mother lives.
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Any move to Canada, even for a period of the year, would throw up important questions about Meghan and Harry's long-term future within the royal family.
Meghan, a former actress, lived and worked in Toronto during her time starring in the popular US drama Suits, and the couple were famously pictured together when Meghan joined her then-boyfriend Harry at the 2017 Invictus Games in the city.
The cost of security for the couple would also be an issue, and as Canada is a realm, a country where the Queen is head of state, it may have to pay for keeping the couple and their son Archie safe.
The couple's aim to be "financially independent" may point towards them seeking a job, or a paid role with an organisation whose aims compliment their own beliefs.
Other members of the monarchy who have salaried jobs include the Queen's grandchildren Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie and Peter Phillips, who all work for a living.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--'Could work' & 'rather get relegated' - Aston Villa fans split over proposed striker transfer

Aston Villa fans have been having their say after Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez was linked with a move to Villa Park .
Dean Smith is desperate to sign a new forward after Wesley Moraes was ruled out for the rest of the season – and beyond – with knee ligament damage .
According to The Athletic , Rodriguez is now a serious option and Villa are said to be weighing up a formal move .
The 30-year-old , who scored twice against Villa for West Bromwich Albion in the Championship last term including the ‘ Hand of Rod ’ goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But Smith is reportedly preparing to make a bid to sign him on a permanent deal with the Clarets not keen on a temporary switch .
Some Villa fans think Rodriguez could be a smart option for Villa this month and here 's what they have been saying : @ MikeRennison : Do n't like Jay Rodriguez but he always seems to score when he 's at Villa Park , could work in our favour .
@ Batefreddie31 : He could do a job .
@ PrashAVFC : I ’ m okay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0 headed goals .
Hourihane and JayRod in a game we ’ re chasing and voila !
Good backup option .
But others are less keen on a potential swoop for the former Albion frontman .
@ DanJohnsonbc4l : So we have gone from Piatek , to Gestede and Rodriguez .
@ Zzzonkedd_ : Imagine being linked with Piatek and ending up linked with Jay Rodriguez in the space of 24 hours .
@ W5_ed : If we sign Rodriguez I ’ m turning my back when he touches the ball .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now , and buy a young Championship striker .
@ Orlae_W : No god please no .

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Aston Villa fans have been having their say after Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez was linked with a move to Villa Park.
Dean Smith is desperate to sign a new forward after Wesley Moraes was ruled out for the rest of the season – and beyond – with knee ligament damage.
According to The Athletic, Rodriguez is now a serious option and Villa are said to be weighing up a formal move.
The 30-year-old, who scored twice against Villa for West Bromwich Albion in the Championship last term including the ‘Hand of Rod’ goal, only joined Burnley in the summer.
(Image: Getty Images)
But Smith is reportedly preparing to make a bid to sign him on a permanent deal with the Clarets not keen on a temporary switch.
Some Villa fans think Rodriguez could be a smart option for Villa this month and here's what they have been saying:
@MikeRennison: Don't like Jay Rodriguez but he always seems to score when he's at Villa Park, could work in our favour.
@J_87d: Jay Rodriguez fits the bill, likewise Glenn Murray.
@Batefreddie31: He could do a job.
@PrashAVFC: I’m okay with him. We’ve got 0 headed goals. Hourihane and JayRod in a game we’re chasing and voila! Good backup option.
@Rosco82_: Oh yeah!
poll loading Would you like to see Villa sign Jay Rodriguez in January? 0+ VOTES SO FAR Yes No
But others are less keen on a potential swoop for the former Albion frontman.
@TheVillaPost: Rodriguez - Rather jump on a plug.
@DanJohnsonbc4l: So we have gone from Piatek, to Gestede and Rodriguez.
@Zzzonkedd_: Imagine being linked with Piatek and ending up linked with Jay Rodriguez in the space of 24 hours.
@W5_ed: If we sign Rodriguez I’m turning my back when he touches the ball.
@Longclaw9: Would rather just take relegation now, and buy a young Championship striker.
@Orlae_W: No god please no.
@Davilla82: I'd rather get relegated.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'didn't consult royals' about decision to quit

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry did not consult any other members of the Royal Family on their decision to step down as 'senior ' royals , it has been claimed .
The couple 's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to `` fully support '' the Queen .
The BBC 's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond tweeted : `` BBC Understands that no other member of the Royal Family was consulted before Harry and Meghan issued their personal statement tonight , the Palace is understood to be ‘ disappointed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Queen 's office said discussions with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their decision were `` at an early stage '' , adding : `` We understand their desire to take a different approach , but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through . ''
The couple 's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period .
Harry and Meghan 's full statement said : “ After many months of reflection and internal discussions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution .
`` We intend to step back as ‘ senior ’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent , while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen .
`` It is with your encouragement , particularly over the last few years , that we feel prepared to make this adjustment .
We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America , continuing to honour our duty to The Queen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The couple went on to discuss Archie and their plans to raise him with an `` appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born '' .
They said : `` This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born , while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter , including the launch of our new charitable entity .
`` We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen , The Prince of Wales , The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties .
Until then , please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support . ''
The couple have just returned to the UK from a six week Christmas break in Canada .

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry did not consult any other members of the Royal Family on their decision to step down as 'senior' royals, it has been claimed.
The couple's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to "fully support" the Queen.
The BBC's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond tweeted: "BBC Understands that no other member of the Royal Family was consulted before Harry and Meghan issued their personal statement tonight, the Palace is understood to be ‘disappointed’."
In a statement the Queen's office said discussions with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their decision were "at an early stage", adding: "We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through."
(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
The couple's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period.
Harry and Meghan's full statement said: “After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.
"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages."
The couple went on to discuss Archie and their plans to raise him with an "appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born".
They said: "This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.
"We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support."
The couple have just returned to the UK from a six week Christmas break in Canada.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Lotto results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Wednesday January 8

Tonight 's winning National Lottery numbers have been revealed - and the draw means you could be winning BIG .
Camelot , the operator of the National Lottery , conducted the Lotto and Thunderball draws this evening .
Birmingham residents looking for a life-changing sum of money can also play the EuroMillions , with draws twice a week taking place on Tuesday evenings and Friday nights .
The main UK Lotto draw will take place at 8pm .
There will also be the Thunderball draw at 8.15pm where could win £500,000 .
To play , you simply select five numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lucky Star numbers from 1-12 .
If you really can ’ t choose and you ’ re finding the pressure too much , you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you .
Lotto draws take place on Wednesday and Saturday evenings from approximately 8.30pm .
Ticket sales for both Tuesday and Friday EuroMillions draws close at 7.30pm on the evening of the draw .
If you ’ ve missed out , you can buy your ticket for the next draw almost straight away - @ @ @ @ @

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Tonight's winning National Lottery numbers have been revealed - and the draw means you could be winning BIG.
Camelot, the operator of the National Lottery, conducted the Lotto and Thunderball draws this evening.
Birmingham residents looking for a life-changing sum of money can also play the EuroMillions, with draws twice a week taking place on Tuesday evenings and Friday nights.
The main UK Lotto draw will take place at 8pm. There will also be the Thunderball draw at 8.15pm where could win £500,000.
Lottery Tickets cost £2 per line, and include a raffle Millionaire Maker entry code. Thunderball Tickets cost £1.
To play, you simply select five numbers between 1 and 50, plus two Lucky Star numbers from 1-12.
If you really can’t choose and you’re finding the pressure too much, you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you.
Lotto draws take place on Wednesday and Saturday evenings from approximately 8.30pm.
EuroMillions draws happen on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Ticket sales for both Tuesday and Friday EuroMillions draws close at 7.30pm on the evening of the draw.
If you’ve missed out, you can buy your ticket for the next draw almost straight away - sales re-open at 9pm.
Tonight's National Lottery Lotto winning numbers are: 02, 23, 42, 47, 50, 59
The Bonus Ball is 32
Tonight's estimated jackpot is £5.1 million.
Tonight's National Lottery Thunderball winning numbers are: 02, 24, 25, 29, 32
The Thunderball is 07


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Buckingham Palace issues statement with warning to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to `` step back '' from the royal family will be `` complicated '' and talks are still at an early stage .
It is understood that the Queen and the Prince of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan 's bombshell personal statement before it was issued .
The couple 's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to `` fully support '' the Queen .
But a palace spokeswoman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage .
`` We understand their desire to take a different approach , but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through . ''
The couple 's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period .
Here is the statement from the duke and duchess of Sussex in full : A personal message from The Duke and Duchess of Sussex .
`` After many months of reflection and internal discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution .
`` We intend to step back as 'senior ' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent , while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen .
`` It is with your encouragement , particularly over the last few years , that we feel prepared to make this adjustment .
`` We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America , continuing to honour our duty to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patronages .
`` This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born , while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter , including the launch of our new charitable entity .
`` We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course , as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen , The Prince of Wales , The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ deepest thanks for your continued support . ''

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Buckingham Palace has warned the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that their decision to "step back" from the royal family will be "complicated" and talks are still at an early stage.
It is understood that the Queen and the Prince of Wales were not aware of the content of Harry and Meghan's bombshell personal statement before it was issued.
The couple's decision was announced on Wednesday evening when they said they will work to become financially independent while continuing to "fully support" the Queen.
But a palace spokeswoman said: "Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.
"We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through."
(Image: (Image: Getty))
The couple's move follows weeks of speculation about their future after they took an extended break from royal duties over the festive period.
Here is the statement from the duke and duchess of Sussex in full:
A personal message from The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
"After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.
"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment.
"We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.
"We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties.
"Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support."


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Crackerjack makes BBC comeback at later time slot with new presenters Sam and Mark

That 's right , the legendary children ’ s show is returning to TV screens after 35 years and will be fronted by presenters Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes .
However , unlike the classic show , it wo n't be airing at 5pm - instead it 'll start at 6pm and the famous `` five to five '' catchphrase will be ditched .
Speaking to the Telegraph , Sam said : “ Five to five is very early these days , what with after-school clubs .
There wouldn ’ t be enough people watching because they ’ d not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new start time is n't the only change from the original Crackerjack , which ran from 1955-84 , either , as it 's also moving from BBC One to the digital CBBC channel .
The show ’ s executive producer , Sid Cole , told the Radio Times that the BBC hopes to attract a wider audience by posting clips on social media in the hope of sending them viral , as James Corden does with the Carpool Karaoke section of his US chat show .
“ It ’ ll be diced up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to it .
It ’ s the kind of thing that Ellen DeGeneres and James Corden are very good at in America .
`` That model will become commonplace going forward , ” he added .
The show was originally presented by This is Your Life ’ s Eamonn Andrews , who was followed by Leslie Crowther , Michael Aspel , Ed Stewart and Stu Francis .
Host Mark , who 's from Darlaston , Wednesbury , said : “ Crackerjack !
was a show that kids came home from school for and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we are also striving for .
`` It was presented by legends ... .
so no pressure !
It ticks lots of boxes with games , sketches and fun .
“ We want the whole family to sit down together at 6pm with their dinner on their laps and laugh all the way into the weekend.
” Mark and Sam met 16 years ago when they competed in ITV ’ s Pop Idol and went on to carve out a career in children ’ s TV as a double act .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will air on CBBC on Friday , January 17 at 6pm .

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Crackerjack is making a comeback in 2020.
That's right, the legendary children’s show is returning to TV screens after 35 years and will be fronted by presenters Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes.
However, unlike the classic show, it won't be airing at 5pm - instead it'll start at 6pm and the famous "five to five" catchphrase will be ditched.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Sam said: “Five to five is very early these days, what with after-school clubs. There wouldn’t be enough people watching because they’d not be home in time."
(Image: BBC / Rachel Joseph)
The new start time isn't the only change from the original Crackerjack, which ran from 1955-84, either, as it's also moving from BBC One to the digital CBBC channel.
The show’s executive producer, Sid Cole, told the Radio Times that the BBC hopes to attract a wider audience by posting clips on social media in the hope of sending them viral, as James Corden does with the Carpool Karaoke section of his US chat show.
“It’ll be diced up in order to entice people to come to it. It’s the kind of thing that Ellen DeGeneres and James Corden are very good at in America.
"That model will become commonplace going forward,” he added.
The show was originally presented by This is Your Life’s Eamonn Andrews, who was followed by Leslie Crowther, Michael Aspel, Ed Stewart and Stu Francis.
Host Mark, who's from Darlaston, Wednesbury, said: “Crackerjack! was a show that kids came home from school for and watched with the family and that is what we are also striving for.
"It was presented by legends.... so no pressure! It ticks lots of boxes with games, sketches and fun.
“We want the whole family to sit down together at 6pm with their dinner on their laps and laugh all the way into the weekend.”
Mark and Sam met 16 years ago when they competed in ITV’s Pop Idol and went on to carve out a career in children’s TV as a double act.
The new Crackerjack is a ten-part series and will air on CBBC on Friday, January 17 at 6pm.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Birmingham City target shock transfer swoop for international winger - reports

Birmingham City are being linked with a move for Steaua Bucharest winger Dennis Man in the Romanian press .
Blues have been targeting additions to the squad this month as they look to pull away from the Championship ’ s relegation zone .
Pep Clotet ’ s side are six points above the bottom three as things stand having won just one of their last 12 league fixtures .
The club are facing another disciplinary hearing having been charged with breaching the business plan imposed on them by the EFL at the start of the last season , but reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the radar .
The 21-year-old , who can also play as an attacking midfielder as well as out wide , is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Romanian football .
He made his senior debut for the country in March last year having represented his nation at under-19 and under-21 levels .
Telekom Sport reports that Blues have seen an offer of 10million euros ( £8.5m ) rejected for Man , who signed for Steaua from Arad in 2016 .
It is claimed the former European Cup finalists are waiting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still open for more than three weeks .
Man has scored three goals this season for Steaua as they go in search of a 27th Romanian Liga 1 title , with 19 goals and nine assists in 64 league appearances since joining .
Blues ’ imposed business plan by the EFL , on the back of the club breaching Profitability and Sustainability regulations , indicated that they should sell players to make a profit last January .
BirminghamLive understands that Blues were under pressure to part with their best players 12 months ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received for the likes of Che Adams were well below the market value , the club retained their assets until last summer .
Meanwhile , accounts published earlier this week showed Blues owed their parent company £97m as of the end of last season and debts are projected to rise even further this year - by more than £50m .

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Birmingham City are being linked with a move for FCSB winger Dennis Man in the Romanian press.
Blues have been targeting additions to the squad this month as they look to pull away from the Championship’s relegation zone.
Pep Clotet’s side are six points above the bottom three as things stand having won just one of their last 12 league fixtures.
The club are facing another disciplinary hearing having been charged with breaching the business plan imposed on them by the EFL at the start of the last season, but reports in Europe are claiming Man is on the radar.
The 21-year-old, who can also play as an attacking midfielder as well as out wide, is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Romanian football.
He made his senior debut for the country in March last year having represented his nation at under-19 and under-21 levels.
Telekom Sport reports that Blues have seen an offer of 10million euros (£8.5m) rejected for Man by FCSB - formerly known as Steaua Bucharest until 2017.
It is claimed the former European Cup finalists are waiting on an improved bid with the transfer window still open for more than three weeks.
Man has scored three goals this season for Steaua as they go in search of a 27th Romanian Liga 1 title, with 19 goals and nine assists in 64 league appearances since joining from UTA Arad in 2016.
Blues’ imposed business plan by the EFL, on the back of the club breaching Profitability and Sustainability regulations, indicated that they should sell players to make a profit last January.
BirminghamLive understands that Blues were under pressure to part with their best players 12 months ago, but because the offers that were received for the likes of Che Adams were well below the market value, the club retained their assets until last summer.
Meanwhile, accounts published earlier this week showed Blues owed their parent company £97m as of the end of last season and debts are projected to rise even further this year - by more than £50m.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Aston Villa boss Dean Smith explains Jonathan Kodjia absence vs Leicester City

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has confirmed that Jonathan Kodjia missed his side ’ s semi-final tie against Leicester City due to illness .
Kodija ’ s omission is a blow for Villa who are already without forwards Wesley Moraes and Keinan Davis .
Wesley ’ s season is over after he picked up a knee injury against Burnley on New Year ’ s Day .
While Davies remains sidelined with a hamstring injury picked up during the second half of Villa 's Carabao Cup victory over Wolves at the end of October .
“ Yeah we haven ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Smith replied when asked why his side ’ s starting line-up didn ’ t have a recognised centre forward in it .
“ Obviously Wesley got injured , Keinan is injured and Kod came off the training pitch ill yesterday .
“ We have our forward thinking players on the pitch and hopefully they can be as good as Manchester City were last night.
” Before the Villa boss added : “ We have got no choice .
As I say , we haven ’ t got any centre forwards at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Under-23s , he scored a couple of goals in midweek so that is where we are in the forward ranks at the moment.
” While Smith ’ s opposite number , Brendan Rodgers , offered his sympathy to the Villa boss over his current predicament .
He said : “ You are obviously just looking at what they may do .
It has been unfortunate for Dean that he has had an injury to the striker he had .
`` But they have got players who have played there before who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want to play , which is probably 5-4-1 .
They have the talent and are a really good team .
So like I say , we will have to be at our best tonight to get a result .
”

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Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has confirmed that Jonathan Kodjia missed his side’s semi-final tie against Leicester City due to illness.
Kodija’s omission is a blow for Villa who are already without forwards Wesley Moraes and Keinan Davis.
Wesley’s season is over after he picked up a knee injury against Burnley on New Year’s Day.
While Davies remains sidelined with a hamstring injury picked up during the second half of Villa's Carabao Cup victory over Wolves at the end of October.
“Yeah we haven’t got any centre forwards at the moment,” Smith replied when asked why his side’s starting line-up didn’t have a recognised centre forward in it.
“Obviously Wesley got injured, Keinan is injured and Kod came off the training pitch ill yesterday.
“We have our forward thinking players on the pitch and hopefully they can be as good as Manchester City were last night.”
Before the Villa boss added: “We have got no choice. As I say, we haven’t got any centre forwards at the moment we have brought in Vassilev from the Under-23s, he scored a couple of goals in midweek so that is where we are in the forward ranks at the moment.”
While Smith’s opposite number, Brendan Rodgers, offered his sympathy to the Villa boss over his current predicament.
He said: “You are obviously just looking at what they may do. It has been unfortunate for Dean that he has had an injury to the striker he had .
"But they have got players who have played there before who will go into that system of how they want to play, which is probably 5-4-1. They have the talent and are a really good team. So like I say, we will have to be at our best tonight to get a result.”


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Stormzy fans queue to meet grime star at hmv Vault

Stormzy fans queue to meet grime star at hmv Vault
Excited fans waited in the rain to meet the popular grime star


birminghammail--2020-01-08--The real reason Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have stepped down as 'senior royals'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex 's dramatic decision to quit their roles as senior royals comes after a turbulent year .
There was joy for Harry and Meghan with the arrival of their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor .
But the lows included rows over privacy , rifts with relatives , the launch of legal action and an attack on the press which overshadowed an official royal tour .
Even the Queen in her Christmas Day address spoke of the `` bumpy '' path her family and the nation had experienced .
Harry and Meghan 's statement announcing their decision soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Canada refers to their `` many months of reflection and internal discussions '' .
They said they will step back as senior royals , work to become financially independent while still supporting the Queen and balance their time between the UK and North America .
Their shock move comes just 19 months after they wed in a televised ceremony in the grand surroundings of St George 's Chapel , Windsor Castle .
Here is what happened in the months leading up to their announcement on Wednesday evening .
Meghan kept busy as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her first child .
She carried out visits to her new patronages , including Smart Works , which provides high-quality interview clothes and training for unemployed women in need .
Celebrations ahead of the birth included a solo trip to New York City , where the American former actress caught up with friends including stylist Jessica Mulroney , and attended an exclusive baby shower , with the private jet journey and penthouse suite , reportedly funded by friends , said to have cost some £300,000 .
In April , Harry and Meghan moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Frogmore Cottage , after building work was completed ahead of the arrival of their baby .
Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born on May 6 weighing 7lb 3oz .
Buckingham Palace announced Meghan was in labour just before 2pm , but in fact the duchess had given birth more than eight hours earlier at 5.26am .
An overjoyed Harry , speaking at Windsor Castle 's Royal Mews , confirmed the news of his son 's birth saying : `` I 'm very excited to announce that Meghan and myself had a baby boy earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He added : `` As every father and parent will ever say , you know , your baby is absolutely amazing , but this little thing is absolutely to die for , so I 'm just over the moon . ''
Two days later baby Archie was introduced to the world at a photocall in the castle 's St George 's Hall , with Meghan declaring : `` It 's magic , it 's pretty amazing .
I have the two best guys in the world so I 'm really happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be an HRH nor a prince .
Harry and Meghan chose not to use the courtesy title Earl Dumbarton , which Archie was allowed to use , nor to style him Lord Archie Mountbatten-Windsor , making a personal decision he should be a plain Master .
Harry and Meghan kept Archie 's birthplace a secret but inevitably his birth certificate later showed he was born at the private Portland Hospital in London .
Privacy was also a key part of the royal christening , which was held in July in a small chapel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traditionally private but Harry and Meghan went one step further by going against convention and deciding not to announce Archie 's godparents , with the couple facing criticism from some quarters .
Photographs were taken by their personal wedding photographer Chris Allerton , with a couple of images released publicly afterwards .
The duke and duchess faced further problems when it emerged in financial accounts that the refurbishment of their new home , Frogmore Cottage , had cost taxpayers £2.4 million .
Republic , which calls for an elected head of state , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been `` thrown '' at Harry and Meghan while public services were under financial pressure .
Harry began working with US chat show queen Oprah Winfrey on a mental health documentary series for Apple , while Meghan guest-edited British Vogue , bringing together 15 women for the cover for the September edition entitled Forces for Change .
The duke told chimpanzee expert Dr Jane Goodall he will only have two children , for the sake of the planet , as he interviewed her for Meghan 's version of Vogue .
The duchess launched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in aid of charity , stepping out wearing some of the capsule collection , made up of four pieces of clothing , and a bag - which sold out online within hours .
The duke broke down at the WellChild awards , citing how his own journey into fatherhood meant learning about those with serious illnesses `` pulls at my heartstrings '' .
There were big changes for Harry and Meghan behind the scenes as reports of problems first between Meghan and the Duchess of Cambridge , and then Harry and his brother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Sussexes split their household from Kensington Palace , setting up their own at Buckingham Palace with a separate head of communications and their own SussexRoyal Instagram account .
They then left the Cambridges ' Royal Foundation to start a separate Sussex Royal charity .
Sources denied there was a feud , saying it was `` largely about preparing both couples for their future roles , which are obviously on divergent tracks '' .
But William , Kate , Harry and Meghan 's joint Royal Foundation venture was intended to harness the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Yet it lasted just 16 months after their first appearance as a foursome at the first - and so far only - Royal Foundation forum in London in February 2018 .
Harry and Meghan faced a row in the summer over their use of private jets after taking four flights in 11 days , despite championing environmental causes .
Sir Elton John escalated the situation by stepping in to defend them , saying he provided them with a private flight to `` maintain a high level of much-needed protection '' .
Harry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying he spends `` 99 % of my life '' using commercial flights , but occasionally needs to ensure `` my family are safe '' .
Harry and a heavily pregnant Meghan went on an official overseas tour to Morocco in February .
The duchess celebrated her pregnancy by getting a henna tattoo - a good luck gesture from her Moroccan hosts , and the couple also had an audience with King Mohammed VI .
When Archie was four months old , the Sussexes travelled to South Africa for their first tour as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Angola , Malawi and Botswana .
In the Nyanga township in Cape Town , the duchess gave a rousing speech to young women who have benefited from an initiative teaching them self-defence and female empowerment .
Speaking publicly about her mixed race heritage , she told them : `` I want you to know from me I am here with you as a mother , as a wife , as a woman , as a woman of colour and as your sister . ''
Meghan danced with some of the performers as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was in all-action mode as he travelled on a South African Maritime Police Unit Rib at Kalk Bay Harbour .
Baby Archie stole the limelight as he received a tender kiss on the forehead from Archbishop Desmond Tutu while in the hands of his mother .
Harry brought back memories of the visit of his mother Diana , Princess of Wales to Angola , as he walked through a minefield in Dirico to see the work of a landmine clearance charity .
In a private visit , Meghan tied a ribbon at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ student Uyinene Mrwetyana , to pay her respects and show solidarity with those who have taken a stand against gender-based violence .
The couple 's high-profile tour to Southern Africa , carried out at the request of the Government , was overshadowed on the penultimate day .
It was announced Meghan had begun a lawsuit against the Mail on Sunday over an alleged breach of copyright and privacy , after it published a private letter between her and her estranged father .
The newspaper said it would be defending its case vigorously .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British tabloid press , accusing them of a `` ruthless campaign '' against his wife , adding : `` I lost my mother and now I watch my wife falling victim to the same powerful forces . ''
Harry later filed his own proceedings at the High Court , against News Group Newspapers , which owns The Sun and the now-defunct News of The World , and Reach plc , which owns the Daily Mirror , in relation to the alleged illegal interception of voicemail messages .
In an ITV documentary filmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opened up about their struggles .
US-born former actress Meghan said she had tried to cope with the pressures of her new royal life by putting on a `` stiff upper lip '' but she was not prepared for the intensity of tabloid interest .
She admitted to feeling vulnerable , saying : `` It 's not enough to just survive something , that 's not the point of life .
You have got to thrive . ''
The duke , questioned about an alleged rift with the Duke of Cambridge , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` on different paths '' and have `` good days '' and `` bad days '' in their relationship .
He described his mental health and the way he deals with the pressures of his life as a matter of `` constant management '' .
It was announced the Sussexes and Archie would be spending Christmas with Meghan 's mother Doria Ragland , and not with the Queen at Sandringham , and later Harry and Meghan began a six-week break from royal duties to recharge .
Despite their troubles , Harry and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offering support .
They met Beyonce and Jay-Z at the European premiere of Disney 's The Lion King , with Beyonce telling them : `` We love you guys . ''
American singer Pharrell Williams , who was also in the line-up , heaped praise on the Sussexes , saying their relationship was `` significant '' and `` beautiful '' , with the duchess appearing to add : `` They do n't make it easy . ''
Former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said of Meghan that she wanted to `` put my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I want to hug her '' , over the alleged racist and sexist treatment she faced .
American comic Ellen DeGeneres also backed the couple , saying : `` I mean I ca n't tell you how sweet they are .
But the most important thing is I got to hold Archie .
I fed Archie .
I held Archie . ''
She added : `` And I just hate it , I see them get attacked and it 's not fair . ''

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's dramatic decision to quit their roles as senior royals comes after a turbulent year.
There was joy for Harry and Meghan with the arrival of their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor.
But the lows included rows over privacy, rifts with relatives, the launch of legal action and an attack on the press which overshadowed an official royal tour.
Even the Queen in her Christmas Day address spoke of the "bumpy" path her family and the nation had experienced.
Harry and Meghan's statement announcing their decision soon after their return from a six-week break in Canada refers to their "many months of reflection and internal discussions".
They said they will step back as senior royals, work to become financially independent while still supporting the Queen and balance their time between the UK and North America.
Their shock move comes just 19 months after they wed in a televised ceremony in the grand surroundings of St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.
Here is what happened in the months leading up to their announcement on Wednesday evening.
- Pregnancy and the royal baby
Meghan kept busy as she geared up for the birth of her first child.
She carried out visits to her new patronages, including Smart Works, which provides high-quality interview clothes and training for unemployed women in need.
Celebrations ahead of the birth included a solo trip to New York City, where the American former actress caught up with friends including stylist Jessica Mulroney, and attended an exclusive baby shower, with the private jet journey and penthouse suite, reportedly funded by friends, said to have cost some £300,000.
In April, Harry and Meghan moved into their new home in Windsor, Frogmore Cottage, after building work was completed ahead of the arrival of their baby.
Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born on May 6 weighing 7lb 3oz.
Buckingham Palace announced Meghan was in labour just before 2pm, but in fact the duchess had given birth more than eight hours earlier at 5.26am.
An overjoyed Harry, speaking at Windsor Castle's Royal Mews, confirmed the news of his son's birth saying: "I'm very excited to announce that Meghan and myself had a baby boy earlier this morning, a very healthy boy."
He added: "As every father and parent will ever say, you know, your baby is absolutely amazing, but this little thing is absolutely to die for, so I'm just over the moon."
Two days later baby Archie was introduced to the world at a photocall in the castle's St George's Hall, with Meghan declaring: "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy."
Archie was not entitled to be an HRH nor a prince.
Harry and Meghan chose not to use the courtesy title Earl Dumbarton, which Archie was allowed to use, nor to style him Lord Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, making a personal decision he should be a plain Master.
(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
- Privacy
Harry and Meghan kept Archie's birthplace a secret but inevitably his birth certificate later showed he was born at the private Portland Hospital in London.
Privacy was also a key part of the royal christening, which was held in July in a small chapel inside Windsor Castle.
Royal baptisms are traditionally private but Harry and Meghan went one step further by going against convention and deciding not to announce Archie's godparents, with the couple facing criticism from some quarters.
Photographs were taken by their personal wedding photographer Chris Allerton, with a couple of images released publicly afterwards.
- Frogmore Cottage
The duke and duchess faced further problems when it emerged in financial accounts that the refurbishment of their new home, Frogmore Cottage, had cost taxpayers £2.4 million.
Republic, which calls for an elected head of state, questioned why the public's money had been "thrown" at Harry and Meghan while public services were under financial pressure.
(Image: Getty Images)
- Royal duties and charity work
Harry began working with US chat show queen Oprah Winfrey on a mental health documentary series for Apple, while Meghan guest-edited British Vogue, bringing together 15 women for the cover for the September edition entitled Forces for Change.
The duke told chimpanzee expert Dr Jane Goodall he will only have two children, for the sake of the planet, as he interviewed her for Meghan's version of Vogue.
The duchess launched her Smart Works high street clothing range in aid of charity, stepping out wearing some of the capsule collection, made up of four pieces of clothing, and a bag - which sold out online within hours.
The duke broke down at the WellChild awards, citing how his own journey into fatherhood meant learning about those with serious illnesses "pulls at my heartstrings".
- Rifts and changes
There were big changes for Harry and Meghan behind the scenes as reports of problems first between Meghan and the Duchess of Cambridge, and then Harry and his brother the Duke of Cambridge refused to subside.
The Sussexes split their household from Kensington Palace, setting up their own at Buckingham Palace with a separate head of communications and their own SussexRoyal Instagram account.
They then left the Cambridges' Royal Foundation to start a separate Sussex Royal charity.
Sources denied there was a feud, saying it was "largely about preparing both couples for their future roles, which are obviously on divergent tracks".
But William, Kate, Harry and Meghan's joint Royal Foundation venture was intended to harness the star power of the four high-profile royals.
Yet it lasted just 16 months after their first appearance as a foursome at the first - and so far only - Royal Foundation forum in London in February 2018.
- Private jets
Harry and Meghan faced a row in the summer over their use of private jets after taking four flights in 11 days, despite championing environmental causes.
Sir Elton John escalated the situation by stepping in to defend them, saying he provided them with a private flight to "maintain a high level of much-needed protection".
Harry explained his use of private planes, saying he spends "99% of my life" using commercial flights, but occasionally needs to ensure "my family are safe".
- Royal tours
Harry and a heavily pregnant Meghan went on an official overseas tour to Morocco in February.
The duchess celebrated her pregnancy by getting a henna tattoo - a good luck gesture from her Moroccan hosts, and the couple also had an audience with King Mohammed VI.
When Archie was four months old, the Sussexes travelled to South Africa for their first tour as a family, with Harry also heading to Angola, Malawi and Botswana.
In the Nyanga township in Cape Town, the duchess gave a rousing speech to young women who have benefited from an initiative teaching them self-defence and female empowerment.
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Speaking publicly about her mixed race heritage, she told them: "I want you to know from me I am here with you as a mother, as a wife, as a woman, as a woman of colour and as your sister."
Meghan danced with some of the performers as she left the township.
The duke was in all-action mode as he travelled on a South African Maritime Police Unit Rib at Kalk Bay Harbour.
Baby Archie stole the limelight as he received a tender kiss on the forehead from Archbishop Desmond Tutu while in the hands of his mother.
Harry brought back memories of the visit of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales to Angola, as he walked through a minefield in Dirico to see the work of a landmine clearance charity.
In a private visit, Meghan tied a ribbon at the memorial to murdered University of Cape Town student Uyinene Mrwetyana, to pay her respects and show solidarity with those who have taken a stand against gender-based violence.
(Image: handout)
- Legal action
The couple's high-profile tour to Southern Africa, carried out at the request of the Government, was overshadowed on the penultimate day.
It was announced Meghan had begun a lawsuit against the Mail on Sunday over an alleged breach of copyright and privacy, after it published a private letter between her and her estranged father.
The newspaper said it would be defending its case vigorously.
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Then Harry launched a scathing attack on the British tabloid press, accusing them of a "ruthless campaign" against his wife, adding: "I lost my mother and now I watch my wife falling victim to the same powerful forces."
Harry later filed his own proceedings at the High Court, against News Group Newspapers, which owns The Sun and the now-defunct News of The World, and Reach plc, which owns the Daily Mirror, in relation to the alleged illegal interception of voicemail messages.
- Television documentary
In an ITV documentary filmed on their Africa tour, the couple opened up about their struggles.
US-born former actress Meghan said she had tried to cope with the pressures of her new royal life by putting on a "stiff upper lip" but she was not prepared for the intensity of tabloid interest.
She admitted to feeling vulnerable, saying: "It's not enough to just survive something, that's not the point of life. You have got to thrive."
The duke, questioned about an alleged rift with the Duke of Cambridge, said he loved his brother dearly but they were "on different paths" and have "good days" and "bad days" in their relationship.
He described his mental health and the way he deals with the pressures of his life as a matter of "constant management".
It was announced the Sussexes and Archie would be spending Christmas with Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, and not with the Queen at Sandringham, and later Harry and Meghan began a six-week break from royal duties to recharge.
Celebrity support
Despite their troubles, Harry and Meghan had no shortage of celebrity fans offering support.
They met Beyonce and Jay-Z at the European premiere of Disney's The Lion King, with Beyonce telling them: "We love you guys."
American singer Pharrell Williams, who was also in the line-up, heaped praise on the Sussexes, saying their relationship was "significant" and "beautiful", with the duchess appearing to add: "They don't make it easy."
Former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said of Meghan that she wanted to "put my arms around her. Oh my God, I want to hug her", over the alleged racist and sexist treatment she faced.
American comic Ellen DeGeneres also backed the couple, saying: "I mean I can't tell you how sweet they are. But the most important thing is I got to hold Archie. I fed Archie. I held Archie."
She added: "And I just hate it, I see them get attacked and it's not fair."


birminghammail--2020-01-08--The real story behind new ITV drama White House Farm starring Stephen Graham

The new six-part series is based on the real life story of a mass murder in an Essex farmhouse in 1985 .
The harrowing events that led to Jeremy Bamber 's conviction form the basis of 'White House Farm ' , with Stephen Graham playing one of the detectives looking into the case .
Police discovered the bodies of the then 24-year-old ’ s adoptive parents Nevill and June , sister Sheila Caffell and her twin sons Nicholas and Daniel , both six , all shot dead at the isolated Georgian property .
Initially they thought the case was simple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down to Sheila 's history of mental health issues .
However it soon became clear that all was not as it seemed after Jeremy Bamber cracked obscene jokes at the funeral , and alarm bells began to ring .
A famous piece of news footage showed the former public school boy struggling through his family ’ s funerals , his faced etched with apparent grief but according to his ex-brother-in-law , Bamber ’ s whole demeanour changed as soon as the cameras stopped rolling .
Colin Caffell wrote in his 1994 book In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that “ Jeremy started cracking jokes and laughing '' and began to make comments about how “ he couldn ’ t wait to get back to the house with Julie [ Mugford , his then girlfriend ] and have some fun ” .
It was the first piece of the extraordinary puzzle that would end with this handsome , charismatic young man found guilty of wiping out his whole family during a summer ’ s night of violence .
Bamber is currently serving life imprisonment without the possibility of parole , despite maintaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the few prisoners in the UK subject to a whole-life order .
Willow Grylls , Executive Producer for New Pictures , said : `` This notorious case has been the subject of much debate , and our programme focuses on the impact of the human tragedy .
`` I ’ d like to specially thank Colin Caffell as without his collaboration this would not have been possible .
`` We have also been blessed by the talent of our director Paul Whittington and an incredible cast.
” Writer Kris Mrksa added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focused on contested legal details , but I wanted to tell this story in a way that did justice to the devastating emotional truth of what happened.
” White House Farm starts on January 8 , 2020 at 9pm on ITV

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A new drama starring Stephen Graham starts on ITV tonight.
The new six-part series is based on the real life story of a mass murder in an Essex farmhouse in 1985.
The harrowing events that led to Jeremy Bamber's conviction form the basis of 'White House Farm', with Stephen Graham playing one of the detectives looking into the case.
Police discovered the bodies of the then 24-year-old’s adoptive parents Nevill and June, sister Sheila Caffell and her twin sons Nicholas and Daniel, both six, all shot dead at the isolated Georgian property.
(Image: ITV)
Initially they thought the case was simple - a murder-suicide - and put it down to Sheila's history of mental health issues.
However it soon became clear that all was not as it seemed after Jeremy Bamber cracked obscene jokes at the funeral, and alarm bells began to ring.
A famous piece of news footage showed the former public school boy struggling through his family’s funerals, his faced etched with apparent grief but according to his ex-brother-in-law, Bamber’s whole demeanour changed as soon as the cameras stopped rolling.
Colin Caffell wrote in his 1994 book In Search of the Rainbow’s End that “Jeremy started cracking jokes and laughing" and began to make comments about how “he couldn’t wait to get back to the house with Julie [Mugford, his then girlfriend] and have some fun”.
It was the first piece of the extraordinary puzzle that would end with this handsome, charismatic young man found guilty of wiping out his whole family during a summer’s night of violence.
Bamber is currently serving life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, despite maintaining his innocence, and is one of the few prisoners in the UK subject to a whole-life order.
The cast
Freddie Fox - Jeremy Bamber
Mark Addy - DS Stan Jones
Stephen Graham - DCI ‘Taff’ Jones
Amanda Burton - June Bamber
Nicholas Farrell - Nevill Bamber
Cressida Bonas - Sheila Caffell
Mark Stanley - Colin Caffell
Gemma Whelan - Ann Eaton
Willow Grylls, Executive Producer for New Pictures, said: "This notorious case has been the subject of much debate, and our programme focuses on the impact of the human tragedy.
"I’d like to specially thank Colin Caffell as without his collaboration this would not have been possible.
"We have also been blessed by the talent of our director Paul Whittington and an incredible cast.”
Writer Kris Mrksa added: "So much discussion of the case has focused on contested legal details, but I wanted to tell this story in a way that did justice to the devastating emotional truth of what happened.”
White House Farm starts on January 8, 2020 at 9pm on ITV


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Five arrested as carjacking terror in Coventry leads police to Bilston after M6 pursuit

Five men have been arrested after a carjacking ordeal in Coventry that led to a major investigation in Bilston .
The terrifying ordeal began today ( Wednesday , January 8 ) at around 3pm in Wyken when a van was taken .
Police later spotted the stolen van and another car - which is believed to have been connected to the robbery - on the M6 .
Officers caught up with them a short time later on St Chads Road , in Bilston , where a large cordon was put in place for hours and searches with a police dog @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lonsdale Road .
Five men aged between 22 and 36 were arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken into police custody for questioning .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` Police were called following a carjacking in Wyken , Coventry , around 3pm today ( 8 January ) .
`` The stolen van and another car believed to be connected to the robbery were spotted on the M6 and were stopped by officers a short time later in the area of St Chads Road , Bilston .
`` Five men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken into police custody for questioning . ''
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
Keep up-to-date with all things Dudley , Walsall , Sandwell and Wolverhampton on our Black Country Live Facebook page - where you 'll get the latest news , travel , weather and events in your area .

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Five men have been arrested after a carjacking ordeal in Coventry that led to a major investigation in Bilston.
The terrifying ordeal began today (Wednesday, January 8) at around 3pm in Wyken when a van was taken.
Police later spotted the stolen van and another car - which is believed to have been connected to the robbery - on the M6.
(Image: Black Country Live)
Officers caught up with them a short time later on St Chads Road, in Bilston, where a large cordon was put in place for hours and searches with a police dog and handler were conducted on driveways along Lonsdale Road.
Five men aged between 22 and 36 were arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken into police custody for questioning.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "Police were called following a carjacking in Wyken, Coventry, around 3pm today (8 January).
"The stolen van and another car believed to be connected to the robbery were spotted on the M6 and were stopped by officers a short time later in the area of St Chads Road, Bilston.
"Five men, aged between 22 and 36, have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken into police custody for questioning."
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
Keep up-to-date with all things Dudley, Walsall, Sandwell and Wolverhampton on our Black Country Live Facebook page - where you'll get the latest news, travel, weather and events in your area.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Stormzy greeted by huge crowds in Birmingham - but some fans left angry

Stormzy was greeted by huge crowds as he arrived in Birmingham to promote his second album - but some fans were left angry .
The Grime icon was in the city to sign copies of Heavy Is The Head at HMV Vault on Wednesday ( January 8 ) .
Fans travelled far and wide and waited in the pouring rain to see Stormzy at HMV in Dale End at 6pm .
Young and old waited excitedly as queues snaked past the huge store , dubbed Europe 's largest HMV outlet .
But the massive turnout meant disappointment for some .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it to come all the way down from London to surprise my sister to see @ stormzy at the @ hmvtweets vault for them to say that it ’ s sold out the wristbands .
I ’ m actually guttedl . ''
Yet others made sure they were first in line .
Superfan Latisha travelled all the way from Wolverhampton with her mum and said : `` I ’ m so excited to see Stormzy .
`` He is my favourite artist and I could wait all day to have a chance to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ name Michael Owuo Jr , has become one of the UK 's biggest music stars .
He won even more fans after headlining Glastonbury in the summer , playing to huge live crowds and on BBC TV .
A multimillion-pound investment has been pumped into HMV Vault which stocks more than 100,000 LPs and CDs .
Meanwhile , it has emerged that Grime star Wiley has allegedly threatened Stormzy 's mother as the feud between the two British rappers escalates .
Wiley , dubbed the Godfather of Grime , criticised Stormzy for working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single Own It .
In response , Stormzy shared his own song titled Disappointed in which he calls Wiley an `` old man '' with `` a death wish '' .
Wiley has now responded again .
In his latest track , titled Eediyat Skengman 2 and shared on his Twitter page , the veteran rapper accuses Stormzy of owing him a `` lump sum '' and asks his rival and his mother to `` come and see me '' .
Wiley adds : `` If I see your mum at Croydon market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weave off her head . ''
Stormzy 's mother , Abigail Owuo , appeared in her son 's music video for the 2015 song Know Me From .
Own It , the song Stormzy worked on with Ed Sheeran , became the first number one single of 2020 .
The feud led to Stormzy to say Wiley should stop using social media while drunk .
He added that he felt sorry for Ed Sheeran , who is abroad on a break from music , for having to worry about their spat .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's even worse , because Ed 's the kindest , nicest soul ever .
`` He 's just trying to travel the world and he 's probably getting notifications .
But I said , 'Do n't worry I 'll do all the trolling ' .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Istahil Ibrahim, Tony Larner)

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Stormzy was greeted by huge crowds as he arrived in Birmingham to promote his second album - but some fans were left angry.
The Grime icon was in the city to sign copies of Heavy Is The Head at HMV Vault on Wednesday (January 8).
Fans travelled far and wide and waited in the pouring rain to see Stormzy at HMV in Dale End at 6pm.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
Young and old waited excitedly as queues snaked past the huge store, dubbed Europe's largest HMV outlet.
But the massive turnout meant disappointment for some.
One tweeted: "How annoying is it to come all the way down from London to surprise my sister to see @stormzy at the @hmvtweets vault for them to say that it’s sold out the wristbands. I’m actually guttedl."
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Yet others made sure they were first in line.
Superfan Latisha travelled all the way from Wolverhampton with her mum and said: "I’m so excited to see Stormzy.
"He is my favourite artist and I could wait all day to have a chance to see him."
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Stormzy, real name Michael Owuo Jr, has become one of the UK's biggest music stars.
He won even more fans after headlining Glastonbury in the summer, playing to huge live crowds and on BBC TV.
A multimillion-pound investment has been pumped into HMV Vault which stocks more than 100,000 LPs and CDs.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Meanwhile, it has emerged that Grime star Wiley has allegedly threatened Stormzy's mother as the feud between the two British rappers escalates.
Wiley, dubbed the Godfather of Grime, criticised Stormzy for working with Ed Sheeran on the number one single Own It.
In response, Stormzy shared his own song titled Disappointed in which he calls Wiley an "old man" with "a death wish".
Wiley has now responded again.
In his latest track, titled Eediyat Skengman 2 and shared on his Twitter page, the veteran rapper accuses Stormzy of owing him a "lump sum" and asks his rival and his mother to "come and see me".
Wiley adds: "If I see your mum at Croydon market, I'm going to rip that weave off her head."
A weave is a type of hair extension.
Stormzy's mother, Abigail Owuo, appeared in her son's music video for the 2015 song Know Me From.
Own It, the song Stormzy worked on with Ed Sheeran, became the first number one single of 2020.
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The feud led to Stormzy to say Wiley should stop using social media while drunk.
He added that he felt sorry for Ed Sheeran, who is abroad on a break from music, for having to worry about their spat.
He said: "This is why it's even worse, because Ed's the kindest, nicest soul ever.
"He's just trying to travel the world and he's probably getting notifications. But I said, 'Don't worry I'll do all the trolling'.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--'Sell him in a hurry' - Club sent message over Aston Villa transfer target

AC Milan have been urged to snap Aston Villa ’ s hands off if they make an offer for Krzysztof Piatek .
Villa have been linked with the Poland international this week after losing striker Wesley Moraes for the rest of the season to a knee ligament injury .
Piatek is facing increased competition at Milan after Zlatan Ibrahimovic joined the club on a short-term contract until the end of the season .
Rossoneri boss Stefano Pioli insists Ibrahimovic ’ s arrival doesn ’ t necessarily mean Piatek will be sold but Villa are one of three clubs reportedly interested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Serie A rivals Genoa for £30m last summer and made a great start to life at the San Siro , scoring 11 times in his first 21 appearances .
But he ’ s found goals harder to come by recently , finding the net on just four occasions so far this term , and ex-Italy international Giuseppe Bergomi says Milan must cash in if they can recoup the fee they paid .
“ If Aston Villa has really put £30m on the plate for Piatek , sell him in a hurry , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sensational figure for the performance that he ’ s having this season.
” According to Corriere della Sera ( via Polish outlet Gol24 ) , Villa are one of three clubs to have made a bid for Piatek with the others being West Ham and Bayer Leverkusen .
Crystal Palace have also been linked with the striker with plenty of clubs in the running .

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AC Milan have been urged to snap Aston Villa’s hands off if they make an offer for Krzysztof Piatek.
Villa have been linked with the Poland international this week after losing striker Wesley Moraes for the rest of the season to a knee ligament injury.
Piatek is facing increased competition at Milan after Zlatan Ibrahimovic joined the club on a short-term contract until the end of the season.
Rossoneri boss Stefano Pioli insists Ibrahimovic’s arrival doesn’t necessarily mean Piatek will be sold but Villa are one of three clubs reportedly interested in his services.
The 24-year-old joined from Serie A rivals Genoa for £30m last summer and made a great start to life at the San Siro, scoring 11 times in his first 21 appearances.
But he’s found goals harder to come by recently, finding the net on just four occasions so far this term, and ex-Italy international Giuseppe Bergomi says Milan must cash in if they can recoup the fee they paid.
“If Aston Villa has really put £30m on the plate for Piatek, sell him in a hurry,” said Bergomi.
“It is a sensational figure for the performance that he’s having this season.”
According to Corriere della Sera (via Polish outlet Gol24), Villa are one of three clubs to have made a bid for Piatek with the others being West Ham and Bayer Leverkusen.
Crystal Palace have also been linked with the striker with plenty of clubs in the running.


birminghammail--2020-01-08--Aston Villa team news: Smith makes seven changes as Jonathan Kodjia misses out

Dean Smith has rung the changes for the first leg of Aston Villa ’ s Carabao Cup semi-final with Leicester @ @ @ @ @ the King Power as underdogs but Smith has selected a fresh XI after resting all @ @ @ @ @ the FA Cup defeat to Fulham on Saturday .
The boss is unable to call @ @ @ @ @ , who is ineligible to face his former club , but captain Jack Grealish , @ @ @ @ @ and Trezeguet all return for Villa after being rested at the weekend .
Smith has @ @ @ @ @ and leaves the club 's only fit senior striker Jonathan Kodjia out of the squad @ @ @ @ @ Indiana Vassilev is once again rewarded for his fine form at under-23 level with a @ @ @ @ @ bench this evening .
He made his senior debut at Craven Cottage on Saturday .

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Dean Smith has rung the changes for the first leg of Aston Villa’s Carabao Cup semi-final with Leicester City.
Villa arrive at the King Power as underdogs but Smith has selected a fresh XI after resting all of his star names in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham on Saturday.
The boss is unable to call on new signing Danny Drinkwater, who is ineligible to face his former club, but captain Jack Grealish, Tyrone Mings, Douglas Luiz and Trezeguet all return for Villa after being rested at the weekend.
Smith has made seven changes in total and leaves the club's only fit senior striker Jonathan Kodjia out of the squad all together.
American youngster Indiana Vassilev is once again rewarded for his fine form at under-23 level with a place on Villa’s bench this evening. He made his senior debut at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
Vila (3-4-3): Nyland; Konsa, Mings, Hause; Guilbert, Douglas, Nakamba, Taylor; El Ghazi, Trezeguet, Grealish
Subs: Kalinic, Elmohamady, Chester, Hourihane, Lansbury, Jota, Vassilev