birminghammail--2020-09-26--Villa youngster Viljami Sinisalo heads to Scotland on loan deal

The 18-year-old has been a regular for Mark Delaney 's under-23s back at Bodymoor Heath while , just last week , he was part of Dean Smith 's first-team squad that travelled to take on Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup .
In fact , Sinisalo , below , has long been involved in first-team training sessions and remains incredibly well-liked by the club 's head of goalkeeping , Neil Cutler .
It 's Cutler who has pushed for the Finnish international to head out on-loan up to Scotland to hone-in on his trade playing first-team football week in , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course , Villa sent former young goalkeeper Matija Sarkic - now at Shrewsbury on-loan via Wolves - to Livingston .
Ayr boss Mark Kerr said of capturing Sinisalo : `` Villa consider Viljami one of the best of his age , anywhere in Europe .
`` He is extremely highly-rated and has been training with the Villa first-team for the last year .
We have had him up to have a look at him and he has shown us the level of his potential and our goalkeeping coach has been hugely impressed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Happy to have signed for Ayr United on loan .
Excited for the new challenge ahead and ca n't wait to get started . ''
Hungarian goalkeeper Akos Onodi , 19 , will step up for Villa 's under-23s now in place of Sinisalo .
The teenager played in last night 's Premier League 2 defeat to Reading while , at Bristol in midweek , he was part of the first-team group and helped warm-up Jed Steer and Lovre Kalinic alongside Cutler .

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Aston Villa's highly-talented young goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has joined Scottish Championship side Ayr United on a season-long loan deal.
The 18-year-old has been a regular for Mark Delaney's under-23s back at Bodymoor Heath while, just last week, he was part of Dean Smith's first-team squad that travelled to take on Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup.
In fact, Sinisalo, below , has long been involved in first-team training sessions and remains incredibly well-liked by the club's head of goalkeeping, Neil Cutler.
(Image: Ayr United)
It's Cutler who has pushed for the Finnish international to head out on-loan up to Scotland to hone-in on his trade playing first-team football week in, week out. Last season, of course, Villa sent former young goalkeeper Matija Sarkic - now at Shrewsbury on-loan via Wolves - to Livingston.
Ayr boss Mark Kerr said of capturing Sinisalo: "Villa consider Viljami one of the best of his age, anywhere in Europe.
"He is extremely highly-rated and has been training with the Villa first-team for the last year. We have had him up to have a look at him and he has shown us the level of his potential and our goalkeeping coach has been hugely impressed by him."
Sinisalo said: "Happy to have signed for Ayr United on loan. Excited for the new challenge ahead and can't wait to get started."
Hungarian goalkeeper Akos Onodi, 19, will step up for Villa's under-23s now in place of Sinisalo. The teenager played in last night's Premier League 2 defeat to Reading while, at Bristol in midweek, he was part of the first-team group and helped warm-up Jed Steer and Lovre Kalinic alongside Cutler.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Aitor Karanka's sends transfer message to Birmingham City squad

Aitor Karanka ’ s Birmingham City face Rotherham United at St Andrew ’ s today looking to maintain their unbeaten start to the Championship season .
They do so with all eyes fixed on new signing Mikel San Jose and whether the 31-year-old will make his Blues debut after signing from Athletic Bilbao .
Karanka explained how the transfer came about - and what else needs to be done in the remaining weeks of the window , particularly reducing the size of the squad .
Here ’ s the transcript of his press conference .
Mikel is the kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He has played in Athletic Bilbao , he has played in the Spanish national team , as a young player at Liverpool .
He is a very good player who is going to bring us experience , a very good person , a player who can play in different positions which is good for us because I have a shape but I like to change something about that shape and he can fit in every single shape .
I am not going to say I am surprised he came here but when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was going to be difficult to sign a player like him , once again we brought a hungry player who wants to be successful , who is still 31 and wants to live this experience with us .
Let ’ s see , he can play central defender with four defenders , he can player defender in a line with three defenders , as a defensive midfielder playing with three in the middle of the pitch , he can play with another midfielder just with two in the middle .
He can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is good .
DO YOU KNOW HIM PERSONALLY I know him personally , when we were in Bilbao .
When he was having his trial in Bilbao they were my last days there .
We were playing against Colorado Rapids and then I went to Colorado Rapids .
The day he arrived at the Bilbao academy I was leaving – now we are together 14 years later .
The first contact was through his agent who is a relative .
At the beginning I thought ‘ OK , we will try it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but our situation is this – we are a Championship team ’ .
I passed the contact to Dong who has once again done a brilliant job and the day that he told me Mikel was here was a really good surprise .
I can ’ t tell you because I need to check him better but the main thing is we are not going to need him right now because the team is playing well .
We have one week after this game , then another two weeks to work .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three weeks , almost a pre-season , working with us .
That ’ s going to be perfect for everybody .
If I can use him on Saturday I will use him for sure and if he is fit for the following Saturday and I think it is going to be good for the team I will use him .
If I don ’ t see that he is one hundred per cent fit we will wait .
In this team there is no one player that we can ’ t miss .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ surrounded by good players you are going to be better .
With Mikel we are going to improve for sure because he is a quality player , he is experienced and he will improve us as a team and he will improve his team-mates .
He told me he had offers in Spain , even other countries with more money but he is the profile of player who I love because the first thing he wanted is the project and he knew that we have a nice project here .
He forgot about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to those countries with a very good contract , he wanted to come here , join us and this is the profile I want .
I am happy in terms of the players who have arrived and I will be happier when players who should leave will leave , in the end it is going to be better for everybody because I said at the beginning I like to train with 20 players , we have an academy to bring in players if we need more players .
To prepare sessions with 24-25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
To have players who know they are not going to play just being here , is not good for them and not good for us .
I think the people around us see better than me because for me it ’ s normal but sometimes the people around us can feel the difference between now and in the past .
I feel them happy but I don ’ t know what happened last year or other years .
I am happy because they are happy , they are going into every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I thought , especially after the game against Brentford , that complacency the following week normally is worse .
On the first day they went really well and after Swansea again this week it has been really , really good .
It is really important , the first game against Brentford we knew we were not at one hundred per cent , now we are not one hundred per cent yet but at least we have three , four , five players on the bench who can replace the players on the pitch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to need 14 players because with our intensity it is very difficult to keep that for 90 minutes .
To have three players – even more – ready to play and go for the team is important .
I said after the game last Saturday I am proud because for me a clean sheet means commitment , the first two games in the season – especially after the last seven months without winning a game and now the first two games with a clean sheet means commitment from everybody .
The players who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who were on the bench , the keepers , we can ’ t forget we played with a teenager in the first game and an experienced player against Swansea , both of them were brilliant .
That ’ s commitment for everybody and that ’ s why I am proud of them .
Yes , I think so .
You can feel everybody feels we can win the games and two weeks ago nobody could think that .
Now we are approaching the games knowing we can win .
We won the Brentford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Swansea game and for sure we will have chances to win the game on Saturday .
I am expecting the toughest game so far , I have known Paul Warne for a while , how well he has done since he has been in charge .
They are recently promoted but they were in the Championship two years ago , I played against them when we were in Nottingham and it was a tough game .
They are a team that plays two hundred per cent every game because they know every single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have to play with at least the same intensity .
DIFFERENT CHALLENGE TO SWANSEA AND BRENTFORD ?
Yes , I told you it is going to be the toughest game so far because this game in certain areas reminds me of the game against Cambridge .
When you think you better them , for me that ’ s the biggest mistake .
When you approaching the game or going to the pitch thinking you are better than the opponent because with that thought we would have lost against Brentford and Swansea .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ worse than us .
It ’ s frustrating but these are the times we are living in .
From our side we just have to keep doing what we are doing , especially the players because even though the fans can ’ t enjoy the games in the stadiums at least they can enjoy them in their houses .
When they can come back it will be amazing and I hope that we will be in a nice position in the table to receive them .
I think everybody is fit .
HOW @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MIDFIELD ?
Very good , especially for them because they know that they can ’ t rest because now because we are in a comfort zone and we are unbeaten , and we have kept two clean sheets .
We are playing Saturday , Saturday , Saturday , but in three weeks ’ time everything is going to change .
We are going to lose games and we are going to have games Saturday , Tuesday , Saturday , Tuesday , so I will need to rotate the players and I will need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so I ’ m sure all of them will get their chance .
No , my period is one game three points , one game three points .
This is the only thing I have on my mind .
At Middlesbrough Grant Leadbitter tried to convince me to try that but at the end I didn ’ t like it because say we needed 12 points from the following four or five games and then you lose the first two or the opposite if you had nine points in six games .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game because we would have too much time to think about the opponents .
It ’ s not if I want or don ’ t want it ’ s if they will arrive or not .
I think we have time enough and until the 5th at 22.59 I will be open .
I don ’ t need because I have a squad that I couldn ’ t even imagine having .
But again , now we are in a good position and the meetings we have had with Dong we are really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and everything that happens will be good for us .

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Aitor Karanka’s Birmingham City face Rotherham United at St Andrew’s today looking to maintain their unbeaten start to the Championship season.
They do so with all eyes fixed on new signing Mikel San Jose and whether the 31-year-old will make his Blues debut after signing from Athletic Bilbao.
Karanka explained how the transfer came about - and what else needs to be done in the remaining weeks of the window, particularly reducing the size of the squad.
Here’s the transcript of his press conference.
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SAN JOSE SIGNING
Mikel is the kind of player who everyone knows about him. He has played in Athletic Bilbao, he has played in the Spanish national team, as a young player at Liverpool.
He is a very good player who is going to bring us experience, a very good person, a player who can play in different positions which is good for us because I have a shape but I like to change something about that shape and he can fit in every single shape.
I am not going to say I am surprised he came here but when we started to be in touch I knew it was going to be difficult to sign a player like him, once again we brought a hungry player who wants to be successful, who is still 31 and wants to live this experience with us.
BEST POSITION
Let’s see, he can play central defender with four defenders, he can player defender in a line with three defenders, as a defensive midfielder playing with three in the middle of the pitch, he can play with another midfielder just with two in the middle.
He can bring us a lot of alteratives – which is good.
(Image: Birmingham City/bcfc.com)
DO YOU KNOW HIM PERSONALLY
I know him personally, when we were in Bilbao. When he was having his trial in Bilbao they were my last days there.
We were playing against Colorado Rapids and then I went to Colorado Rapids.
The day he arrived at the Bilbao academy I was leaving – now we are together 14 years later.
The first contact was through his agent who is a relative. At the beginning I thought ‘OK, we will try it, I will be more than happy but our situation is this – we are a Championship team’.
I passed the contact to Dong who has once again done a brilliant job and the day that he told me Mikel was here was a really good surprise.
IS HE READY?
I can’t tell you because I need to check him better but the main thing is we are not going to need him right now because the team is playing well.
We have one week after this game, then another two weeks to work. So he is going to have at least three weeks, almost a pre-season, working with us. That’s going to be perfect for everybody.
If I can use him on Saturday I will use him for sure and if he is fit for the following Saturday and I think it is going to be good for the team I will use him. If I don’t see that he is one hundred per cent fit we will wait. In this team there is no one player that we can’t miss.
HIS IMPACT
When you are a good player and surrounded by good players you are going to be better.
With Mikel we are going to improve for sure because he is a quality player, he is experienced and he will improve us as a team and he will improve his team-mates.
OTHER OFFERS
He told me he had offers in Spain, even other countries with more money but he is the profile of player who I love because the first thing he wanted is the project and he knew that we have a nice project here.
He forgot about staying in his comfort zone or going to those countries with a very good contract, he wanted to come here, join us and this is the profile I want.
HAPPY WITH NUMBERS?
I am happy in terms of the players who have arrived and I will be happier when players who should leave will leave, in the end it is going to be better for everybody because I said at the beginning I like to train with 20 players, we have an academy to bring in players if we need more players.
To prepare sessions with 24-25 players, I don’t like it.
To have players who know they are not going to play just being here, is not good for them and not good for us.
ATMOSPHERE
I think the people around us see better than me because for me it’s normal but sometimes the people around us can feel the difference between now and in the past.
I feel them happy but I don’t know what happened last year or other years.
I am happy because they are happy, they are going into every single training session 150%, sometimes I thought, especially after the game against Brentford, that complacency the following week normally is worse.
On the first day they went really well and after Swansea again this week it has been really, really good.
BENEFIT OF BENCH
It is really important, the first game against Brentford we knew we were not at one hundred per cent, now we are not one hundred per cent yet but at least we have three, four, five players on the bench who can replace the players on the pitch.
I always said we are going to need 14 players because with our intensity it is very difficult to keep that for 90 minutes.
To have three players – even more – ready to play and go for the team is important.
CLEAN SHEET RATIO
I said after the game last Saturday I am proud because for me a clean sheet means commitment, the first two games in the season – especially after the last seven months without winning a game and now the first two games with a clean sheet means commitment from everybody.
The players who were on the pitch, the players who were on the bench, the keepers, we can’t forget we played with a teenager in the first game and an experienced player against Swansea, both of them were brilliant.
That’s commitment for everybody and that’s why I am proud of them.
PROGRESS MADE TOWARDS IMPROVING MENTALITY?
Yes, I think so. You can feel everybody feels we can win the games and two weeks ago nobody could think that. Now we are approaching the games knowing we can win.
We won the Brentford game, had chances to win the Swansea game and for sure we will have chances to win the game on Saturday.
ROTHERHAM
I am expecting the toughest game so far, I have known Paul Warne for a while, how well he has done since he has been in charge.
They are recently promoted but they were in the Championship two years ago, I played against them when we were in Nottingham and it was a tough game.
They are a team that plays two hundred per cent every game because they know every single ball for them is their life. We have to play with at least the same intensity.
DIFFERENT CHALLENGE TO SWANSEA AND BRENTFORD?
Yes, I told you it is going to be the toughest game so far because this game in certain areas reminds me of the game against Cambridge.
When you think you better them, for me that’s the biggest mistake.
When you approaching the game or going to the pitch thinking you are better than the opponent because with that thought we would have lost against Brentford and Swansea. We need to think they are not worse than us.
(Image: PA)
NO FANS
It’s frustrating but these are the times we are living in.
From our side we just have to keep doing what we are doing, especially the players because even though the fans can’t enjoy the games in the stadiums at least they can enjoy them in their houses.
When they can come back it will be amazing and I hope that we will be in a nice position in the table to receive them.
TEAM NEWS
I think everybody is fit.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE BATTLE IN CENTRAL MIDFIELD?
Very good, especially for them because they know that they can’t rest because now because we are in a comfort zone and we are unbeaten, and we have kept two clean sheets.
We are playing Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, but in three weeks’ time everything is going to change.
We are going to lose games and we are going to have games Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, Tuesday, so I will need to rotate the players and I will need all of the 150 per cent, so I’m sure all of them will get their chance.
DO YOU GROUP GAMES?
No, my period is one game three points, one game three points. This is the only thing I have on my mind.
At Middlesbrough Grant Leadbitter tried to convince me to try that but at the end I didn’t like it because say we needed 12 points from the following four or five games and then you lose the first two or the opposite if you had nine points in six games.
I prefer just to think about the following game because we would have too much time to think about the opponents.
WANT MORE PLAYERS?
It’s not if I want or don’t want it’s if they will arrive or not. I think we have time enough and until the 5th at 22.59 I will be open.
NEED MORE PLAYERS?
I don’t need because I have a squad that I couldn’t even imagine having.
But again, now we are in a good position and the meetings we have had with Dong we are really pleased because we have done our homework and everything that happens will be good for us.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Aston Villa transfer latest - Barkley likelihood, Rashica talks

The international transfer deadline closes exactly a week on Monday ( October 5 ) with Aston Villa still expected to bring in a couple more .
Dean Smith has spent almost £88 million already on four recruits ( including add-ons ) while he admitted he 's still light in one or two areas .
A central midfielder remains a priority signing - that 's despite the emergence of 19-year-old ace Jacob Ramsey 's who lit up the Carabao Cup .
Elsewhere , talks have stalled over a move for Milot Rashica while there 's genuine interest in Chelsea duo Ross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues to be linked , too , but BirminghamLive believes that 's way off as it stands .
Here , in our latest transfer Q & A , club writer Ashley Preece speaks to readers about all things Villa - from contract situations to future additions : Rhys L : What on earth is going on with Rashica ?
So many conflicting details fee agreed/fee not agreed .
Personal terms agreed/not agreed .
He wants to come/doesn ’ t want to come .
I ’ m slowly losing my sanity .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I did an opinion piece months ago saying Villa should move on .
I 've been told Rashica wants to double his money to £80,000-a-week which would make him one of the top earners at Villa .
I believe a fee 's been agreed ( his release clause ) but negotiations between player 's agent and Villa have stalled .
10 days and counting .
Adam Vincent : Do you think we will have many more incomings ?
Do you think we will get the Rashica deal over the line ?
Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midfielder and another striker/winger are preferred options .
I do n't think Josh King is dead in the water yet , either .
He could be the one to come in .
As for Rashica .
Do I think a deal will get done ?
Heart says yes , head says .
KingsyAVFC : The Rashica thing is bugging me now .
It seems like one where last minute the player will decide , ' A move to Villa is better than nothing ' .
Are Villa still after him or not ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we are done for this window , too ... Villa are far from done , Kingsy .
10 days left in the international window , 21 days to strike deals with Championship clubs .
A lot can happen as you know !
J Bridge 91 : How many incomings do you see before window ends ?
2 ?
Sarr and Barkley ?
?
Any truth in them ?
Yes , I 'm going to stick my neck on the line and say two .
There will be at least one more , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too farfetched .
Barkley 's a resolute character and will see Villa as a downgrade to being shipped out at Chelsea .
He 'll dig his heels to stay .
Sarr , at £40 million .
It seems unlikely , sadly .
He 's represent a great investment , though , at just 22 .
Kobstyle5 : Do you think another striker will come in after the departure of Ally Samatta ?
Quite possible , Kob .
Although , seeing Traore at close quarters last night made me realise he could easily slot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ size and movement .
KingsyAVFC : Ash , do you not think our answer for a midfielder could already be with us with Jacob Ramsey ?
So impressed by him in the two games he 's played .
Surely has to be giving Dean a headache .
I would be gutted to just see him go out on loan .
100 per cent , I said as much in my Villa debrief , he could save Villa a fortune .
A mature head on such young shoulders .
Smith will make a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 16 deadline .
Kobstyle5 : Who is our alternative to Rashica ?
?
Also , Loftus-Cheek still an option ?
Villa will certainly ask the RLC question given their array of options at Stamford Bridge .
Could well be a Deadline Day deal that one , depending if RLC wants to play week in , week out .
Kobstyle5 : Who is our alternative to Rashica ?
Josh King ?
That 's definitely an option Villa are looking at , Kob .
Bournemouth holding out for top-dollar for a player with nine months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ KingsyAVFC : I 'd chuck ( Ramsey ) in vs Fulham in place of Hourihane .
I really would .
The lad will be buzzing off the back of a quality performance vs Bristol and Fulham represent a slightly easier game - at least on paper .
Possibly a tad harsh on old Conor who was Villa 's best player in the first half against Sheff Utd .
Totally get what you 're saying , I 'd love to see him get some minutes in the PL .
It could really bring him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you , keep him around .
He might not get much action in the C'ship .
We 'll see .
Adam Vincent : Do you see many more outgoings Ash ?
Any interest in the likes of Lansbury ?
I 've seen the interest in El Ghazi today from Olimpiakos .
That could be a mover should Villa get one or two in in attacking areas .
High unlikely , though .
Those expected to depart are Jota , Kalinic and Nyland .
Kali might just stay until the January just in case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's tough to get off the wage bill .
He did OK last night and is a body in an area where Villa are light .
SterlingW .
: Would you think business is going to be slow until we get closer to October 5th ?
Obviously quite a bit of assessing taking place right now .
Of course , the squad 's slowly been assembled at roughly one signing per week of late .
10 days is a long time in football before October 5 .
Villa are n't in too much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the right ones .
AndyCV : A bit of a left field one , but are Villa in negotiations with any more sponsors ?
Income is vital to the club being sustainable and , also , any thoughts on the lineup for Saturday , Ash ?
Trez and Traore to start with Grealish back in midfield ?
No sure on this Andy , I know the club have been making a killing with the Kappa merch , especially with the new third kit and training wear .
It appears to be much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be a sub this time around vs Fulham .
Interested to see if his ankle was as bad as it looked .
He hobbled around for a while before being replaced .
I think it 'll be the same XI that started vs Sheff Utd .
Villan87 : Hi Ash , would you say RLC is more likely to come than Barkley then ?
Also , do you think maybe we could get Sarr on a loan to buy ( if Rashica deal is dead ) or do you think Watford are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
I would , yes !
The Sarr saga will run and run .
You do wonder if European clubs will come in prior to the Oct 5 deadline .
PL clubs have extra 11 days to strike a deal for him after that .
They want £38m for him .
Mgb6974 : With the latest update on Rashica recently , would you say that with a price agreed this issue of a wage request to double his current £36k ( 40k euros ) comes from the agents or the player himself ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ come in ahead of the likes of McGinn which could upset the applecart .
We 'll see what happens .
Mallon : Did you know Hourihanes contract expires next summer , he can walk for free and is unlikely to extend if Villa bring in another midfielder !
We need a new midfielder but they may want him to commit first .
It would be a kick losing him for nothing .
Konsa now deserves an extension too .
Hourihane 's deal does n't expire next summer .
It says it does on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for contracts etc .
He signed an extension only last summer on the eve of the Spurs fixture .
He 's been excellent and one of the best value-for-money signings in recent memory .
Konsa , too , has come on leaps and bounds .
Adam Vincent : Is there many more contact extensions in the offing that you know of Ash actually ?
Would love to see Douglas or Konsa !
Yes .
McGinn possibly .
I really want to see the old McGinn vs Fulham , mind !
Douglas and Konsa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ late .

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The international transfer deadline closes exactly a week on Monday (October 5) with Aston Villa still expected to bring in a couple more.
Dean Smith has spent almost £88 million already on four recruits (including add-ons) while he admitted he's still light in one or two areas.
A central midfielder remains a priority signing - that's despite the emergence of 19-year-old ace Jacob Ramsey's who lit up the Carabao Cup.
Elsewhere, talks have stalled over a move for Milot Rashica while there's genuine interest in Chelsea duo Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Ismaila Sarr continues to be linked, too, but BirminghamLive believes that's way off as it stands.
Here, in our latest transfer Q&A, club writer Ashley Preece speaks to readers about all things Villa - from contract situations to future additions:
Rhys L: What on earth is going on with Rashica? So many conflicting details fee agreed/fee not agreed. Personal terms agreed/not agreed. He wants to come/doesn’t want to come. I’m slowly losing my sanity.
It's been a nightmare, hasn't it. I did an opinion piece months ago saying Villa should move on. I've been told Rashica wants to double his money to £80,000-a-week which would make him one of the top earners at Villa. I believe a fee's been agreed (his release clause) but negotiations between player's agent and Villa have stalled. 10 days and counting.
Adam Vincent: Do you think we will have many more incomings? Do you think we will get the Rashica deal over the line?
Villa aren't done yet. A central midfielder and another striker/winger are preferred options. I don't think Josh King is dead in the water yet, either. He could be the one to come in. As for Rashica. Do I think a deal will get done? Heart says yes, head says.
KingsyAVFC: The Rashica thing is bugging me now. It seems like one where last minute the player will decide, 'A move to Villa is better than nothing'. Are Villa still after him or not? The Kosovan reporter has been 'told' that we are done for this window, too...
Villa are far from done, Kingsy. 10 days left in the international window, 21 days to strike deals with Championship clubs. A lot can happen as you know!
J Bridge 91: How many incomings do you see before window ends? 2? Sarr and Barkley?? Any truth in them?
Yes, I'm going to stick my neck on the line and say two. There will be at least one more, anyway. Sarr and Barkley appear just too farfetched. Barkley's a resolute character and will see Villa as a downgrade to being shipped out at Chelsea. He'll dig his heels to stay. Sarr, at £40 million. It seems unlikely, sadly. He's represent a great investment, though, at just 22.
Kobstyle5: Do you think another striker will come in after the departure of Ally Samatta?
Quite possible, Kob. Although, seeing Traore at close quarters last night made me realise he could easily slot into a No.9 role such is his size and movement.
KingsyAVFC: Ash, do you not think our answer for a midfielder could already be with us with Jacob Ramsey? So impressed by him in the two games he's played. Surely has to be giving Dean a headache. I would be gutted to just see him go out on loan.
100 per cent, I said as much in my Villa debrief, he could save Villa a fortune. A mature head on such young shoulders. Smith will make a decision on him right up until the Oct 16 deadline.
Kobstyle5: Who is our alternative to Rashica?? Also, Loftus-Cheek still an option?
Villa will certainly ask the RLC question given their array of options at Stamford Bridge. Could well be a Deadline Day deal that one, depending if RLC wants to play week in, week out.
Kobstyle5: Who is our alternative to Rashica? Josh King?
That's definitely an option Villa are looking at, Kob. Bournemouth holding out for top-dollar for a player with nine months left to run on his contract.
KingsyAVFC: I'd chuck (Ramsey) in vs Fulham in place of Hourihane. I really would. The lad will be buzzing off the back of a quality performance vs Bristol and Fulham represent a slightly easier game - at least on paper.
Possibly a tad harsh on old Conor who was Villa's best player in the first half against Sheff Utd. Totally get what you're saying, I'd love to see him get some minutes in the PL. It could really bring him on. Personally, I'm with you, keep him around. He might not get much action in the C'ship. We'll see.
Adam Vincent: Do you see many more outgoings Ash? Any interest in the likes of Lansbury?
I've seen the interest in El Ghazi today from Olimpiakos. That could be a mover should Villa get one or two in in attacking areas. High unlikely, though. Those expected to depart are Jota, Kalinic and Nyland. Kali might just stay until the January just in case. I think Lansbury stays because he's tough to get off the wage bill. He did OK last night and is a body in an area where Villa are light.
SterlingW.: Would you think business is going to be slow until we get closer to October 5th? Obviously quite a bit of assessing taking place right now.
Of course, the squad's slowly been assembled at roughly one signing per week of late. 10 days is a long time in football before October 5. Villa aren't in too much of a rush. Transfers have to be the right ones.
AndyCV: A bit of a left field one, but are Villa in negotiations with any more sponsors? Income is vital to the club being sustainable and, also, any thoughts on the lineup for Saturday, Ash? Trez and Traore to start with Grealish back in midfield?
No sure on this Andy, I know the club have been making a killing with the Kappa merch, especially with the new third kit and training wear. It appears to be much better this year. I think Traore might be a sub this time around vs Fulham. Interested to see if his ankle was as bad as it looked. He hobbled around for a while before being replaced. I think it'll be the same XI that started vs Sheff Utd.
Villan87: Hi Ash, would you say RLC is more likely to come than Barkley then? Also, do you think maybe we could get Sarr on a loan to buy (if Rashica deal is dead) or do you think Watford aren't interested in that kind of deal?
I would, yes! The Sarr saga will run and run. You do wonder if European clubs will come in prior to the Oct 5 deadline. PL clubs have extra 11 days to strike a deal for him after that. They want £38m for him.
Mgb6974: With the latest update on Rashica recently, would you say that with a price agreed this issue of a wage request to double his current £36k (40k euros) comes from the agents or the player himself?
Quite possibly, yes. He'd come in ahead of the likes of McGinn which could upset the applecart. We'll see what happens.
Mallon: Did you know Hourihanes contract expires next summer, he can walk for free and is unlikely to extend if Villa bring in another midfielder! We need a new midfielder but they may want him to commit first. It would be a kick losing him for nothing. Konsa now deserves an extension too.
Hourihane's deal doesn't expire next summer. It says it does on Transfermarkt which is usually a good source for contracts etc. He signed an extension only last summer on the eve of the Spurs fixture. He's been excellent and one of the best value-for-money signings in recent memory. Konsa, too, has come on leaps and bounds.
Adam Vincent: Is there many more contact extensions in the offing that you know of Ash actually? Would love to see Douglas or Konsa!
Yes. McGinn possibly. I really want to see the old McGinn vs Fulham, mind! Douglas and Konsa have been Villa's shining lights of late.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--School pupils banned from eating indoors - even if it rains

Pupils have been told they will have to sit outdoors to eat their lunch throughout autumn and winter - even if it 's pouring with rain .
Lode Heath School said Covid social distancing restrictions meant its children would not be able to eat indoors for the foreseeable future .
Parents have been told their secondary school children will be forced to eat outside `` regardless of the weather '' .
They have reacted with fury - with one mother saying some pupils were choosing to sit in the toilets to eat lunch rather than risk a soaking outside if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an academy run by the Arden Multi-Academy Trust and has around 1,150 pupils aged 11 to 16 .
An email was sent to parents on Wednesday telling them of the new policy .
It said : `` Due to Government guidelines , Lode Heath School is unable to offer indoor facilities/spaces for pupils to use during break times and lunchtimes .
`` An appropriate raincoat/jacket is advised , particularly as we are now experiencing a period of inclement weather .
`` Pupils will be outside for break times and lunch times regardless of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parental/guardian support in ensuring pupils are suitably prepared for any periods of bad weather as we enter the autumn and winter months . ''
One mum , who has a 14-year-old daughter at the Lode Lane school , said she `` could n't believe her eyes '' when she received the email .
`` The majority of parents are outraged by it - I kept re-reading the email , not believing my eyes , '' she said .
`` So even if it 's freezing cold or pouring with rain , our children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their lunch ?
`` It 's a massive school with a big sports hall , dining hall and lots of classrooms .
Ca n't they organise a rota system so that every year group gets half an hour to sit indoors and eat their food ?
`` They sit together in class , so why not in the dining room to eat their lunch ? ''
The mother said there was a shelter in the grounds , but it only had one bench and was not big enough for all the children .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ either not eating at all , or going into the toilets and sitting in there to eat , '' she said .
`` It 's all very well saying 'put on a raincoat ' , but how do you balance holding an umbrella with eating your food ?
And because some of the lockers are n't in use , they 'll also have to lug their bags everywhere with them too . ''
After receiving complaints from parents , Lode Heath associate head teacher , Laura Suddon , sent out a second email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrangements .
She said she accepted that , while it was `` far from ideal '' , the restrictions imposed on all schools because of Covid-19 meant they had to `` make decisions we would really rather not '' .
Ms Suddon said they had to find a compromise between pupils ' comfort and their safety - and they had opted for safety .
They now had two 30-minute breaks for students in the morning and afternoon , which were staggered , during which time they had to ensure pupils had access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart and did n't interrupt pupils who were still in lessons .
`` When taking all of this into account , along with the indoor space available , the layout of our building , plus staffing capacity issues , we have no option but to host children outside during their break times , '' she said .
`` To support students being outside we have purchased two large canopies for the playground , in addition to the large canopy we already have in the food zone .
We are awaiting a fourth and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these are in short supply . ''
She said there was enough space for children to shelter under canopies in inclement weather .
They had also bought extra outdoor tables and benches - but these were not under shelters .
The school could not use any indoor rooms because they were either being used , or did not meet social distancing rules , Ms Suddon said .
`` Despite our arrangements being far from ideal , they are , so far , proving effective as we have not yet had any confirmed cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite Solihull being an area of high infections as many other schools are sending students home to work remotely once more , '' she said .

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Pupils have been told they will have to sit outdoors to eat their lunch throughout autumn and winter - even if it's pouring with rain.
Lode Heath School said Covid social distancing restrictions meant its children would not be able to eat indoors for the foreseeable future.
Parents have been told their secondary school children will be forced to eat outside "regardless of the weather".
They have reacted with fury - with one mother saying some pupils were choosing to sit in the toilets to eat lunch rather than risk a soaking outside if it rains.
The Solihull school is an academy run by the Arden Multi-Academy Trust and has around 1,150 pupils aged 11 to 16.
An email was sent to parents on Wednesday telling them of the new policy.
It said: "Due to Government guidelines, Lode Heath School is unable to offer indoor facilities/spaces for pupils to use during break times and lunchtimes.
"An appropriate raincoat/jacket is advised, particularly as we are now experiencing a period of inclement weather.
(Image: Google)
"Pupils will be outside for break times and lunch times regardless of the weather, so we would appreciate parental/guardian support in ensuring pupils are suitably prepared for any periods of bad weather as we enter the autumn and winter months."
One mum, who has a 14-year-old daughter at the Lode Lane school, said she "couldn't believe her eyes" when she received the email.
"The majority of parents are outraged by it - I kept re-reading the email, not believing my eyes," she said.
"So even if it's freezing cold or pouring with rain, our children have got to sit outside to eat their lunch?
"It's a massive school with a big sports hall, dining hall and lots of classrooms. Can't they organise a rota system so that every year group gets half an hour to sit indoors and eat their food?
"They sit together in class, so why not in the dining room to eat their lunch?"
The mother said there was a shelter in the grounds, but it only had one bench and was not big enough for all the children.
"I've heard some children are either not eating at all, or going into the toilets and sitting in there to eat," she said.
"It's all very well saying 'put on a raincoat', but how do you balance holding an umbrella with eating your food? And because some of the lockers aren't in use, they'll also have to lug their bags everywhere with them too."
After receiving complaints from parents, Lode Heath associate head teacher, Laura Suddon, sent out a second email, explaining the reasons behind the new arrangements.
She said she accepted that, while it was "far from ideal", the restrictions imposed on all schools because of Covid-19 meant they had to "make decisions we would really rather not".
Ms Suddon said they had to find a compromise between pupils' comfort and their safety - and they had opted for safety.
They now had two 30-minute breaks for students in the morning and afternoon, which were staggered, during which time they had to ensure pupils had access to the canteen and toilets, were kept apart and didn't interrupt pupils who were still in lessons.
"When taking all of this into account, along with the indoor space available, the layout of our building, plus staffing capacity issues, we have no option but to host children outside during their break times," she said.
"To support students being outside we have purchased two large canopies for the playground, in addition to the large canopy we already have in the food zone. We are awaiting a fourth and are currently trying to source more although these are in short supply."
She said there was enough space for children to shelter under canopies in inclement weather. They had also bought extra outdoor tables and benches - but these were not under shelters.
The school could not use any indoor rooms because they were either being used, or did not meet social distancing rules, Ms Suddon said.
"Despite our arrangements being far from ideal, they are, so far, proving effective as we have not yet had any confirmed cases of Covid-19 amongst out student population, despite Solihull being an area of high infections as many other schools are sending students home to work remotely once more," she said.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Dean Smith details his big Bertrand Traore plan at Aston Villa

New £19 million signing Bertrand Traore is poised to make his Premier League debut for Aston Villa at Craven Cottage on Monday after grabbing the headlines in midweek .
The Bukinabe winger scored a sensational opening goal just 14 minutes after making his claret and blue bow , caressing home Jacob Ramsey 's lofted pass past Bristol City keeper Max O'Leary .
Traore , 25 , took a whack to his ankle at Bristol but has been given the OK by Smith to join up with Villa 's 18-man squad for their trip down to Fulham for Monday 's 5.45pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really well , he looks fit , '' Smith told us .
`` The French season curtailed early last year , obviously .
His team , Lyon , were in the Champions League so he ’ s been training pretty regular .
His fitness levels were really good and he certainly made a good start . ''
Traore played on his favoured right-side position at Ashton Gate on Thursday .
The former Chelsea ace is heavily left-footed , though , but likes to cut in from the right to score and assist .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ position is and was quizzed on whether he can play on both sides - but the boss reiterated it 'll be right-wing or , rather surprisingly , as a potential No.9 .
`` We work on exploiting the space in behind defenders and you need to have good pace and movement to do that .
He 's certainly got that , '' Smith explained .
`` What he also adds is competition to the likes of Trezeguet , Jack and El Ghazi .
He gives us a lot of competition that you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quality that 's for sure , as well as real pace .
`` I see him more playing on the right .
That 's where he 's been more productive but he can also play down the middle .
He 's played their many times .
I 've got Ghazi and Trezeguet who can play both sides and who have done for both club and country . ''
Smith added : `` I 'm satisfied with the squad that I 've got .
I feel it 's a higher quality but , more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This season we 're right at it . ''
You can read our Traore scouting report after his brilliance at Bristol HERE .

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New £19 million signing Bertrand Traore is poised to make his Premier League debut for Aston Villa at Craven Cottage on Monday after grabbing the headlines in midweek.
The Bukinabe winger scored a sensational opening goal just 14 minutes after making his claret and blue bow, caressing home Jacob Ramsey's lofted pass past Bristol City keeper Max O'Leary.
Traore, 25, took a whack to his ankle at Bristol but has been given the OK by Smith to join up with Villa's 18-man squad for their trip down to Fulham for Monday's 5.45pm kick-off.
"He’s trained really well, he looks fit," Smith told us. "The French season curtailed early last year, obviously. His team, Lyon, were in the Champions League so he’s been training pretty regular. His fitness levels were really good and he certainly made a good start."
Traore played on his favoured right-side position at Ashton Gate on Thursday. The former Chelsea ace is heavily left-footed, though, but likes to cut in from the right to score and assist.
Smith was asked about where his best position is and was quizzed on whether he can play on both sides - but the boss reiterated it'll be right-wing or, rather surprisingly, as a potential No.9.
"We work on exploiting the space in behind defenders and you need to have good pace and movement to do that. He's certainly got that," Smith explained.
"What he also adds is competition to the likes of Trezeguet, Jack and El Ghazi. He gives us a lot of competition that you need as a manager. He's got quality that's for sure, as well as real pace.
"I see him more playing on the right. That's where he's been more productive but he can also play down the middle. He's played their many times. I've got Ghazi and Trezeguet who can play both sides and who have done for both club and country."
Smith added: "I'm satisfied with the squad that I've got. I feel it's a higher quality but, more importantly, more athletic this season. This season we're right at it."
You can read our Traore scouting report after his brilliance at Bristol HERE.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Aston Villa transfer news live - Benrahma plea made as shock Pukki link emerges

It 's the weekend and welcome to Saturday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest transfer news and views from Villa Park today .
Dean Smith is due to hold his press conference today ahead of Monday 's trip to Fulham as he looks to build on Villa 's winning start .
On Friday , we heard of a development involving talks stalling over the transfer of Milot Rashica from Werder Bremen .
Elsewhere , Chelsea duo Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are both being monitored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new central midfielder .
Premier League rules , though , dictate that only one player can move on loan between clubs .
January 's £8.5 million recruit Mbwana Ally Samatta departed yesterday , too , in a deal that could bank Villa around £6 million next summer .
Staying with transfers , lots were discussed during Friday 's big Villa Q & A which can be found HERE .
Today , we 'll keep you up to date with much more on our rolling live blog which you can keep up to date @ @ @ @

Welcome to Monday's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest transfer news and views from Villa Park today.
On Friday, we heard of a development involving talks stalling over the transfer of Milot Rashica from Werder Bremen.
Yesterday reports of a new defensive target emerged.
Elsewhere, Chelsea duo Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are both being monitored with Villa keen to bring in a new central midfielder.
Premier League rules, though, dictate that only one player can move on loan between clubs.
Staying with transfers, lots were discussed during Friday's big Villa Q&A which can be found HERE.
Today, we'll keep you up to date with much more on our rolling live blog which you can keep up to date with, below.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--'End of story' - West Brom boss Slaven Bilic fumes at controversial Chelsea call

Slaven Bilic was left ruing refereeing decisions and VAR calls as West Brom ’ s three-goal lead in their clash with Chelsea was wiped out in the second half .
After a Callum Robinson brace and a Kyle Bartley volley in the first half , the Blues came roaring back in the second and snatched a stoppage time equaliser through Tammy Abraham .
On second viewing , Chelsea attacker Kai Havertz appeared to handle the ball in the build up to the leveller , and though VAR did run a check , the goal was allowed to stand .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seemingly been hurled over in the build up to Callum Hudson-Odoi 's strike , which gave Chelsea real hope that they might leave The Hawthorns with a share of the points .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' Second goal , yes - okay , for me that ’ s a foul .
He 's been pulled by their player , '' Bilic explained .
`` That 's a foul for me , but okay - the referee did n't give it and they score the second one .
The third goal is very difficult to accept .
`` For me , it 's so clear I do n't even want to talk about it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ maybe , or possibly , it 's handball .
End of story , full stop .
How can someone say it ’ s not handball ? ''
Generally speaking , though , this was much better again from Albion , albeit with their defensive frailties exposed for the third successive match .
They went toe to toe with one of the division ’ s best sides , and can feel particularly heartened with their efforts - even though the dressing room was in a sombre , rather than celebratory , mood at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Bilic explained the thinking behind his gameplan which was within minutes of being perfectly executed .
`` It was a great game , first of all .
We played the way we wanted - we played at our maximum .
We played the way I asked the boys to play , '' he said .
`` Plan A in these kind of games when you are playing teams like Chelsea , plan A ca n't be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You have to outrun them , be focused and determined , have the right mentality and awareness .
`` Your concentration - do n't give them anything , and make them make mistakes and punish them .
That was exactly what we were doing in the first 45 minutes .
`` 3-0 ... we knew second half was going to be hard for us .
We counted that when we had the ball we were going to stretch them more because they lost their shape because they had to score many goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough , but we did that .
Offensively , we created a couple of situations where with a bit of better finishing we could 've scored the fourth one , but we knew we were going to have to defend as a team quite deep .
`` We wanted to limit them to shots outside the box , and limit them on crosses .
With three centre backs , we 're good at that .
That was what was happening .
`` Our only mistake was their second goal - too easy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Third goal is very hard to accept . ''

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Slaven Bilic was left ruing refereeing decisions and VAR calls as West Brom’s three-goal lead in their clash with Chelsea was wiped out in the second half.
After a Callum Robinson brace and a Kyle Bartley volley in the first half, the Blues came roaring back in the second and snatched a stoppage time equaliser through Tammy Abraham.
On second viewing, Chelsea attacker Kai Havertz appeared to handle the ball in the build up to the leveller, and though VAR did run a check, the goal was allowed to stand.
This was 20 minutes after Darnell Furlong had seemingly been hurled over in the build up to Callum Hudson-Odoi's strike, which gave Chelsea real hope that they might leave The Hawthorns with a share of the points.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
"Second goal, yes - okay, for me that’s a foul. He's been pulled by their player," Bilic explained. "That's a foul for me, but okay - the referee didn't give it and they score the second one. The third goal is very difficult to accept.
"For me, it's so clear I don't even want to talk about it. It's obvious - it's not maybe, or possibly, it's handball. End of story, full stop. How can someone say it’s not handball?"
Generally speaking, though, this was much better again from Albion, albeit with their defensive frailties exposed for the third successive match.
They went toe to toe with one of the division’s best sides, and can feel particularly heartened with their efforts - even though the dressing room was in a sombre, rather than celebratory, mood at the final whistle.
Sign up for our Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Bilic explained the thinking behind his gameplan which was within minutes of being perfectly executed.
"It was a great game, first of all. We played the way we wanted - we played at our maximum. We played the way I asked the boys to play," he said.
"Plan A in these kind of games when you are playing teams like Chelsea, plan A can't be that you're going to outclass them. You have to outrun them, be focused and determined, have the right mentality and awareness.
"Your concentration - don't give them anything, and make them make mistakes and punish them. That was exactly what we were doing in the first 45 minutes.
"3-0...we knew second half was going to be hard for us. We counted that when we had the ball we were going to stretch them more because they lost their shape because they had to score many goals.
"We did that - not enough, but we did that. Offensively, we created a couple of situations where with a bit of better finishing we could've scored the fourth one, but we knew we were going to have to defend as a team quite deep.
"We wanted to limit them to shots outside the box, and limit them on crosses. With three centre backs, we're good at that. That was what was happening.
"Our only mistake was their second goal - too easy, one two. Strike from their player. Third goal is very hard to accept."


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Brentford boss begs for Said Benrahma transfer decision amid Aston Villa rumours

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank is desperate for Said Benrahma to make a decision on his future .
The Brentford winger made his first appearance of the season today , coming on for the final stages of today 's 1-1 draw with Millwall .
Benrahma has been heavily linked with a move away from Brentford , with Crystal Palace and Aston Villa both credited with an interest in the Algerian international .
So too have Arsenal and Chelsea , while Fulham have been tipped to make a late breakthrough in the chase for the former Nice forward .
In our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Villa head coach Dean Smith brought Benrahma to Brentford during his time in charge of the London club and some fans have been keen for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Frank , under whom Benrahma scored 17 goals last season , wants a resolution soon .
Speaking at a post-match press conference , Frank said : `` My answer needs to be both .
I think all of us , including him , would like to have answer ; stay or go .
`` I do n't know if he will be here after the transfer window but that 's part of football , so we deal with it .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ click here '' And I must say that Said has been bang-on in terms of attitude and being a top professional .
That 's just the transfer window .
`` I think he did fairly well , it was n't his best 20 minutes but he still showed good actions and put in one unbelievable cross .
One inch more and it 's a goal for Ivan Toney .
`` I 'm happy with his attitude .
I do n't know what 's going to happen , I can only guess .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than happy to have one of the best attackers in the division . ''

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Brentford head coach Thomas Frank is desperate for Said Benrahma to make a decision on his future.
The Brentford winger made his first appearance of the season today, coming on for the final stages of today's 1-1 draw with Millwall.
Benrahma has been heavily linked with a move away from Brentford, with Crystal Palace and Aston Villa both credited with an interest in the Algerian international.
So too have Arsenal and Chelsea, while Fulham have been tipped to make a late breakthrough in the chase for the former Nice forward.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Villa head coach Dean Smith brought Benrahma to Brentford during his time in charge of the London club and some fans have been keen for the pair to reunite at Villa Park.
Frank, under whom Benrahma scored 17 goals last season, wants a resolution soon.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Frank said: "My answer needs to be both. I think all of us, including him, would like to have answer; stay or go.
"I don't know if he will be here after the transfer window but that's part of football, so we deal with it.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"And I must say that Said has been bang-on in terms of attitude and being a top professional. That's just the transfer window.
"I think he did fairly well, it wasn't his best 20 minutes but he still showed good actions and put in one unbelievable cross. One inch more and it's a goal for Ivan Toney.
"I'm happy with his attitude. I don't know what's going to happen, I can only guess. If he's here, then I'm more than happy to have one of the best attackers in the division."


birminghammail--2020-09-26--'Who is VAR kidding?' - West Brom fans fume at controversial Chelsea call

West Bromwich Albion fans are fuming at tonight 's 3-3 draw with Chelsea .
Slaven Bilic 's side were 3-0 ahead after 27 minutes through a brace from Callum Robinson and a goal from defender Kyle Bartley .
Mason Mount , Callum Hudson-Odoi and former Aston Villa striker Tammy Abraham scored in the second half to bring Frank Lampard 's side level and earn a point from the Premier League clash at The Hawthorns .
Abraham 's goal came in controversial circumstances , with the striker tapping home from a save by Sam Johnstone .
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Google Play Store and App Store Video Assistant Referee ( VAR ) technology was on hand with Albion using the technology in the Premier League for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was used to check for a possible handball by Chelsea attacker Kai Havertz in the build-up to Abraham 's goal , no decision was given in Albion 's favour and that is why fans are fuming .
`` Who is VAR kidding any more ? ''
one fan asked .
`` Checking for handball or offside ? ''
said another .
Sign up for our Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' VAR is a joke ! ''
a third fan said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to the best League in the world - the Championship ! ''
`` What is the point of VAR if it does n't give decisions correctly ? ''
asked a fifth fan .
Albion earned their first points of the season tonight and sit in 16th place ahead of a trip to Southampton on Sunday week .

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West Bromwich Albion fans are fuming at tonight's 3-3 draw with Chelsea.
Slaven Bilic's side were 3-0 ahead after 27 minutes through a brace from Callum Robinson and a goal from defender Kyle Bartley.
Mason Mount, Callum Hudson-Odoi and former Aston Villa striker Tammy Abraham scored in the second half to bring Frank Lampard's side level and earn a point from the Premier League clash at The Hawthorns.
Abraham's goal came in controversial circumstances, with the striker tapping home from a save by Sam Johnstone.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology was on hand with Albion using the technology in the Premier League for the first time this season.
However, while it was used to check for a possible handball by Chelsea attacker Kai Havertz in the build-up to Abraham's goal, no decision was given in Albion's favour and that is why fans are fuming.
"Who is VAR kidding any more?" one fan asked.
"Checking for handball or offside?" said another.
Sign up for our Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"VAR is a joke!" a third fan said.
Another added: "Get us back to the best League in the world - the Championship!"
"What is the point of VAR if it doesn't give decisions correctly?" asked a fifth fan.
Albion earned their first points of the season tonight and sit in 16th place ahead of a trip to Southampton on Sunday week.


birminghammail--2020-09-26--Paul Warne delivers his verdict on Blues after Rotherham draw

Paul Warne expects Birmingham City to improve after seeing his Rotherham United side leave St Andrew ’ s with a point .
The Millers manager admitted Blues were the dominant team after half time and sees scope for development in Aitor Karanka ’ s squad .
“ Because of the whole pre-season and everything I think it is going to take a lot of games for everyone to get on song , ” Warne said .
“ Birmingham have signed some good players - in the last week - when the Hogans get a little bit fitter , a little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems .
I think that ’ s the same with most teams .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter here “ At the moment anyone can beat anyone in this league by one mistake - as always after ten game you have a good look at the league but I think after 15 games this season it will start separating.
” Warne admitted Blues were the better team in the second half of today ’ s game - but felt it was the visitors who made the running in the opening 45 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good first half , caused them problems .
Our play deserved a goal but Birmingham were better than us second half and caused us all sorts of problems , ” he said .
“ There are clichés I can get into but it was definitely a game of two halves in my opinion .
Two tackles in the box have caused a 1-1 .
“ At 90 minutes for us to throw away two points is hugely disappointing but if you had offered me a point after 75 , I would probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ascendancy .
“ The lads defended very well and limited them to very few chances and on another day they could have won – and so could they .
“ They are both penalties in my opinion .
It was disappointing but the one we got , it seemed more of a penalty if that makes sense whereas the one we gave away was a little bit more disappointing because he wasn ’ t really going anywhere .
“ But on the whole I was really proud .
We didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here to try and win a football match and we just didn ’ t do enough .
“ We had a couple of deflected looping shots which I thought might loop in past their keeper but I obviously didn ’ t rub the right genie this morning .
“ I thought it was two good teams who can defend well , set up for set pieces really well and both went at it hammer and tong and if you were a neutral it might have been a good game to watch .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t in our nature so we did have a lot of attempts on goal and they came from some good play .
“ Each game we have played this season , and a lot of games in the Championship , have been determined by one goal here and there .
“ We still aren ’ t scoring enough to win a football game which is no criticism of my team .
I thought Birmingham defended really well .
Hopefully sooner or later we can give someone a good crack .
”

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Paul Warne expects Birmingham City to improve after seeing his Rotherham United side leave St Andrew’s with a point.
The Millers manager admitted Blues were the dominant team after half time and sees scope for development in Aitor Karanka’s squad.
“Because of the whole pre-season and everything I think it is going to take a lot of games for everyone to get on song,” Warne said.
“Birmingham have signed some good players - in the last week - when the Hogans get a little bit fitter, a little bit match sharper they will cause some problems. I think that’s the same with most teams.
“At the moment anyone can beat anyone in this league by one mistake - as always after ten game you have a good look at the league but I think after 15 games this season it will start separating.”
Warne admitted Blues were the better team in the second half of today’s game - but felt it was the visitors who made the running in the opening 45 minutes.
“I thought we were really good first half, caused them problems. Our play deserved a goal but Birmingham were better than us second half and caused us all sorts of problems,” he said.
“There are clichés I can get into but it was definitely a game of two halves in my opinion. Two tackles in the box have caused a 1-1.
“At 90 minutes for us to throw away two points is hugely disappointing but if you had offered me a point after 75, I would probably have taken it because they were in the ascendancy.
“The lads defended very well and limited them to very few chances and on another day they could have won – and so could they.
“They are both penalties in my opinion. It was disappointing but the one we got, it seemed more of a penalty if that makes sense whereas the one we gave away was a little bit more disappointing because he wasn’t really going anywhere.
“But on the whole I was really proud. We didn’t come here to defend. We came here to try and win a football match and we just didn’t do enough.
“We had a couple of deflected looping shots which I thought might loop in past their keeper but I obviously didn’t rub the right genie this morning.
“I thought it was two good teams who can defend well, set up for set pieces really well and both went at it hammer and tong and if you were a neutral it might have been a good game to watch.
“Sitting behind the ball just isn’t in our nature so we did have a lot of attempts on goal and they came from some good play.
“Each game we have played this season, and a lot of games in the Championship, have been determined by one goal here and there.
“We still aren’t scoring enough to win a football game which is no criticism of my team. I thought Birmingham defended really well. Hopefully sooner or later we can give someone a good crack.”


birminghammail--2020-09-26--'Frightening' - Pereira magic denied as Chelsea nick result

West Brom are off the mark in the Premier League - but this will feel unquestionably like two points dropped after their 3-0 half time lead against Chelsea was eroded in the second half .
Callum Robinson ’ s brace and Kyle Bartley ’ s fine finish set Albion on their way and set The Hawthorns clash up for a big shock .
The Blues replied , though , after the break when Mason Mount , Callum Hudson-Odoi and Tammy Abraham - the latter at the death - denied the Baggies victory .
Albion , who made one change with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , got off to the best possible start .
Matheus Pereira slipped in Robinson as Albion broke through , and he calmly dispatched a shot across Willy Caballero and found the corner .
A trailing Chelsea would then assume control of proceedings , and came close when Abraham scuffed a shot from close range .
Timo Werner , his strike partner , hit the bar too as the visitors pushed for an equaliser .
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more , it 's absolutely free !
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Dominant in possession , they then were the manufacturers of their own downfall .
Thiago Silva , making his top flight debut , was caught out on the ball by Robinson who doubled the Baggies ’ advantage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough of a turn-up for the books , Albion went further in front moments later ; a well worked corner from Pereira was flicked on by Darnell Furlong and Kyle Bartley escaped his man Marcos Alonso to coolly volley home .
Frank Lampard acted at the break and introduced Cesar Azpilicueta and Hudson-Odoi in the hope of rescuing a result .
It had the desired effect .
Though neither scored , Chelsea ’ s dominance at the beginning of the second period bore fruit when Mount found Johnstone ’ s corner from distance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ d ridden the crest of the pink wave , the visitors struck again .
Wonderful build-up play ended with Hudson-Odoi curling home to reduce the deficit further .
The remaining minutes were agonising if you were of an Albion persuasion .
Chelsea piled forwards , with six or seven recognised attackers on the field .
Sights of goal came , in an attack versus defence scenario that dragged on .
In the end , it was a cruel way to lose two points ; Johnstone parried a Mount shot amid a penalty area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tap home and even up .
Here are the player ratings .
Made one routine save from a low Havertz shot , even if he did see it late .
Took one very deep , outswinging catch from a James cross .
Was unsighted , and so flat-footed for Mount ’ s strike .
Made a key save from Havertz shortly after .
Had a stormer of a first half , where he got the better of Alonso in both directions .
Denied the Spaniard with a crucial block .
A key part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s third goal .
Was he fouled in the build up to Hudson-Odoi ’ s goal ?
Burst past Alonso impressively after cutting out a Chelsea attack .
Reading of the game is always improving against better players .
Will inevitably feel like all the hard work had been undone by the end .
Very good at the back in the first period , his goal aside .
Cleared countless deliveries from wide , though there were one or two occasions where they were let off the hook as Chelsea attackers fluffed their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head despite his young age .
Was spun by Mount once which led to Werner clipping the bar .
Second half was wave after wave of pressure , but the Irishman stood firm .
Defensively , this was a steep learning curve on his top flight debut .
Chelsea targeted that side , with James and Havertz seeing plenty of the ball .
Let them in on more than one occasion , but Townsend held his nerve generally .
Going forwards he was composed .
Dug in at the end .
For the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was an improvement from Sawyers .
Dispossessed once in his own half , but played an important role in Albion ’ s forward movements .
Offered himself as a taker for the ball in all areas of the pitch .
Got moves going , almost found the net .
Led with the press , as he so often does .
Bulldozed his way through the Chelsea tide on more than one occasion .
Ran out of legs a little at the end .
A joy to watch , even at this level .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this quality of player .
His work-rate defensively is quite brilliant , too , and can ’ t be underestimated .
Another assist to boot .
The piece of skill to play in Robson-Kanu in the second half was frighteningly good .
A constant menace for James and Alonso as he and Pereira switched wings throughout .
Played some lovely stuff in the final third , but couldn ’ t finish one before half time .
Like Pereira , his defensive discipline was to be admired .
Got off to the best possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caballero .
Cool as you like when he took full advantage of Thiago Silva ’ s error .
Defended from the front , despite large periods without the ball .
A key cog in Albion ’ s set up from the bench .
Got them up the field , won corners , won free kicks , relieved pressure .

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West Brom are off the mark in the Premier League - but this will feel unquestionably like two points dropped after their 3-0 half time lead against Chelsea was eroded in the second half.
Callum Robinson’s brace and Kyle Bartley’s fine finish set Albion on their way and set The Hawthorns clash up for a big shock.
The Blues replied, though, after the break when Mason Mount, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Tammy Abraham - the latter at the death - denied the Baggies victory.
Albion, who made one change with Conor Townsend replacing the suspended Kieran Gibbs, got off to the best possible start. Matheus Pereira slipped in Robinson as Albion broke through, and he calmly dispatched a shot across Willy Caballero and found the corner.
A trailing Chelsea would then assume control of proceedings, and came close when Abraham scuffed a shot from close range. Timo Werner, his strike partner, hit the bar too as the visitors pushed for an equaliser.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Dominant in possession, they then were the manufacturers of their own downfall.
Thiago Silva, making his top flight debut, was caught out on the ball by Robinson who doubled the Baggies’ advantage.
As if that wasn’t enough of a turn-up for the books, Albion went further in front moments later; a well worked corner from Pereira was flicked on by Darnell Furlong and Kyle Bartley escaped his man Marcos Alonso to coolly volley home.
Frank Lampard acted at the break and introduced Cesar Azpilicueta and Hudson-Odoi in the hope of rescuing a result. It had the desired effect.
Though neither scored, Chelsea’s dominance at the beginning of the second period bore fruit when Mount found Johnstone’s corner from distance.
Just when Albion thought they’d ridden the crest of the pink wave, the visitors struck again. Wonderful build-up play ended with Hudson-Odoi curling home to reduce the deficit further.
The remaining minutes were agonising if you were of an Albion persuasion. Chelsea piled forwards, with six or seven recognised attackers on the field. Sights of goal came, in an attack versus defence scenario that dragged on.
In the end, it was a cruel way to lose two points; Johnstone parried a Mount shot amid a penalty area melee and Abraham was on hand to tap home and even up.
Here are the player ratings.
Johnstone 6
Made one routine save from a low Havertz shot, even if he did see it late. Took one very deep, outswinging catch from a James cross.
Was unsighted, and so flat-footed for Mount’s strike. Made a key save from Havertz shortly after.
Furlong 8
Had a stormer of a first half, where he got the better of Alonso in both directions. Denied the Spaniard with a crucial block. A key part of the routine that produced Albion’s third goal. Was he fouled in the build up to Hudson-Odoi’s goal?
Ajayi 8
Burst past Alonso impressively after cutting out a Chelsea attack. Reading of the game is always improving against better players. Will inevitably feel like all the hard work had been undone by the end.
Bartley 9
Very good at the back in the first period, his goal aside. Cleared countless deliveries from wide, though there were one or two occasions where they were let off the hook as Chelsea attackers fluffed their lines.
(Image: PA)
O’Shea 7
Always talking, a mature head despite his young age. Was spun by Mount once which led to Werner clipping the bar. Second half was wave after wave of pressure, but the Irishman stood firm.
Townsend 7
Defensively, this was a steep learning curve on his top flight debut. Chelsea targeted that side, with James and Havertz seeing plenty of the ball. Let them in on more than one occasion, but Townsend held his nerve generally. Going forwards he was composed. Dug in at the end.
Sawyers 8
For the third game in a row, this was an improvement from Sawyers. Dispossessed once in his own half, but played an important role in Albion’s forward movements. Offered himself as a taker for the ball in all areas of the pitch. Got moves going, almost found the net.
Livermore 7
Led with the press, as he so often does. Bulldozed his way through the Chelsea tide on more than one occasion. Ran out of legs a little at the end.
Pereira 9*
A joy to watch, even at this level. Looks like he belongs around and against this quality of player. His work-rate defensively is quite brilliant, too, and can’t be underestimated. Another assist to boot.
The piece of skill to play in Robson-Kanu in the second half was frighteningly good.
Diangana 8
A constant menace for James and Alonso as he and Pereira switched wings throughout. Played some lovely stuff in the final third, but couldn’t finish one before half time. Like Pereira, his defensive discipline was to be admired.
Robinson 9
Got off to the best possible start when he tucked one away across Caballero. Cool as you like when he took full advantage of Thiago Silva’s error. Defended from the front, despite large periods without the ball.
A selfless, tireless display which bore fruit.
(Image: PA)
Subs
Robson-Kanu (for Robinson 66) 7
A key cog in Albion’s set up from the bench. Got them up the field, won corners, won free kicks, relieved pressure.
Phillips (for Diangana 74)
Field (for Pereira 90)
Subs not used: Button, Kipre, Edwards, Harper
Chelsea : Caballero, Alonso (Azpilicueta 45), Silva (Giroud 72), Christensen, James, Kanté, Kovacic (Hudson-Odoi 45); Havertz, Mount, Abraham, Werner
Subs not used: Kepa, Tomori, Jorginho, Barkley
GOALS
Albion - Robinson 4, 25, Bartley 28; Chelsea - Mount 55, Hudson-Odoi 70, Abraham 90
The ref: Jon Moss
Up next : Southampton (a) - Sunday October 4 (12pm KO)


birminghammail--2020-09-26--'No way get Edouard!' - Aston Villa fans react as Teemu Pukki link emerges

Aston Villa fans have been reacting to reports linking them with a move for Norwich City striker Teemu Pukki .
Pukki , an 82-cap Finland international , has also been mentioned as a possible transfer target for Villa 's Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers , West Bromwich Albion , Leeds United and Sheffield United .
The Press Associationare reporting that Pukki is likely to remain at Norwich until January at least , but he could decide to depart Carrow Road if Daniel Farke 's side are n't challenging for promotion back to the Premier League .
Pukki scored 30 goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stormed to the Championship title and netted 11 last season .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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Google Play Store and App Store Norwich finished bottom of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed to his club when he signed a new contract in July last year .
Villa fans are n't best pleased with the idea of their club going in for Pukki and would prefer to see an alternative signed if head coach Dean Smith is to add to his ranks up front .
Ollie Watkins , Bertrand Traore and Keinan Davis are available to Smith now that Mbwana Samatta has completed a move to Fenerbahce .
Odsonne Edouard has been heavily linked with a move to Villa , the Celtic striker also said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Everton and Arsenal .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Villa fans have been having their say on the Pukki link today with one saying : `` No way , get Edouard ! ''
`` No , no , no , '' added another .
A third fan said : `` No thanks . ''
`` This is a wind up , '' another fan said while a fifth added : `` I hope not . ''

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Aston Villa fans have been reacting to reports linking them with a move for Norwich City striker Teemu Pukki.
Pukki, an 82-cap Finland international, has also been mentioned as a possible transfer target for Villa's Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Bromwich Albion, Leeds United and Sheffield United.
The Press Associationare reporting that Pukki is likely to remain at Norwich until January at least, but he could decide to depart Carrow Road if Daniel Farke's side aren't challenging for promotion back to the Premier League.
Pukki scored 30 goals in all competitions in 2018-19 as Norwich stormed to the Championship title and netted 11 last season.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Norwich finished bottom of the Premier League last season, but Pukki committed to his club when he signed a new contract in July last year.
Villa fans aren't best pleased with the idea of their club going in for Pukki and would prefer to see an alternative signed if head coach Dean Smith is to add to his ranks up front.
Ollie Watkins, Bertrand Traore and Keinan Davis are available to Smith now that Mbwana Samatta has completed a move to Fenerbahce.
Odsonne Edouard has been heavily linked with a move to Villa, the Celtic striker also said to be a target for Crystal Palace, Everton and Arsenal.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Villa fans have been having their say on the Pukki link today with one saying: "No way, get Edouard!"
"No, no, no," added another.
A third fan said: "No thanks."
"This is a wind up," another fan said while a fifth added: "I hope not."