birminghammail--2020-03-02--Boy too scared to go back to school after brutal gang beating in Great Barr

A little boy who begged an evil gang to stop hitting him during a horrific street beating is too scared to return to school , it has been revealed .
Mackenzie 's mum , Amy Webster , said the 12-year-old is now fearful about attending school after the thugs strangled the youngster during a botched robbery in Aldridge Road on Thursday , February 27 .
The group , believed to be schoolchildren , even tried to rip the youngster from his bike as he begged them to stop at around 10am .
The devastated parent has since launched a petition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system discipline students that cause harm to others .
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join our Facebook group here She said : `` Schools no longer have the sanctions to discipline pupils who cause Actual Bodily Harm ( ABH ) and are fighting constantly to permanently expel pupils who behave like this .
`` My son is now scared to attend school and carry on his education at the school he likes with his friends out of fear of seeing these youths who assaulted him .
Why should Mackenzie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Schools should have the authority and means to permanently exclude any child immediately who has assaulted another .
`` It is unfair on any child to have to go through what Mackenzie has gone through these last few days .
`` Schools should also be doing more on issues like this by showing pupils the after-effects if has on children who have been assaulted in unprovoked attacks by youths and on their families too .
`` I also feel the law now needs to also change how minors who assault are dealt with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong and as such should be treated as an adult in cases like this .
Harsher sentencing for youths must be sanctioned and if not , a penalty must be imposed upon the parents responsible for the youths .
`` This penalty must then go into a court fund for the victim to be able to access at the age of 18 . ''
BirminghamLive readers have spoke nof their utter disgust after the sickening attack , which has shocked the community .
`` Horrible world we live in , '' one said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will heal quickly , mentally he will not .
Breaks my heart as it has happened to my own kids . ''
Another added : `` What a vile and nasty thing to do to a young boy .
Hope they get the culprits and give them a taste of their own medicine !
! ''
And a third wrote : `` Such attacks are appalling and I agree serious consequences need to be applied to deter such behaviour .
I hope the poor boy involved is given counselling and support to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage . ''
A spokesman to West Midlands Police said an investigation is currently under way and are in the process of speaking with the victim .
They added : `` We received a report of a 12-year-old boy being punched in the face in Aldridge Road , Great Barr , yesterday morning ( February 27 ) .
`` An appointment has been made to speak to the boy in a comfortable environment to obtain further information .
`` Anyone with information is asked to get in touch via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ log number 648 of 27/2/20 . ''
To sign the petition , click here .

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A little boy who begged an evil gang to stop hitting him during a horrific street beating is too scared to return to school, it has been revealed.
Mackenzie's mum, Amy Webster, said the 12-year-old is now fearful about attending school after the thugs strangled the youngster during a botched robbery in Aldridge Road on Thursday, February 27.
The group, believed to be schoolchildren, even tried to rip the youngster from his bike as he begged them to stop at around 10am.
The devastated parent has since launched a petition to combat how schools and the legal system discipline students that cause harm to others.
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join our Facebook group here
She said: "Schools no longer have the sanctions to discipline pupils who cause Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) and are fighting constantly to permanently expel pupils who behave like this.
"My son is now scared to attend school and carry on his education at the school he likes with his friends out of fear of seeing these youths who assaulted him. Why should Mackenzie be penalised in his education?
"Schools should have the authority and means to permanently exclude any child immediately who has assaulted another.
"It is unfair on any child to have to go through what Mackenzie has gone through these last few days.
"Schools should also be doing more on issues like this by showing pupils the after-effects if has on children who have been assaulted in unprovoked attacks by youths and on their families too.
"I also feel the law now needs to also change how minors who assault are dealt with legally.
"They know right from wrong and as such should be treated as an adult in cases like this. Harsher sentencing for youths must be sanctioned and if not, a penalty must be imposed upon the parents responsible for the youths.
"This penalty must then go into a court fund for the victim to be able to access at the age of 18."
BirminghamLive readers have spoke nof their utter disgust after the sickening attack, which has shocked the community.
"Horrible world we live in," one said. "Hope he's OK. Physically he will heal quickly, mentally he will not. Breaks my heart as it has happened to my own kids."
Another added: "What a vile and nasty thing to do to a young boy. Hope they get the culprits and give them a taste of their own medicine!!"
And a third wrote: "Such attacks are appalling and I agree serious consequences need to be applied to deter such behaviour. I hope the poor boy involved is given counselling and support to help him overcome the emotional, long-term damage."
(Image: Handout/Google)
A spokesman to West Midlands Police said an investigation is currently under way and are in the process of speaking with the victim.
They added: "We received a report of a 12-year-old boy being punched in the face in Aldridge Road, Great Barr, yesterday morning (February 27).
"An appointment has been made to speak to the boy in a comfortable environment to obtain further information.
"Anyone with information is asked to get in touch via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk , or by calling 101. Quote log number 648 of 27/2/20."
To sign the petition, click here .


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Gas bills set to be slashed by £56 a year for millions of Brits

More than one million households are likely to see their gas bills drop as supplier Bulb said it would pass on savings in the wholesale energy market to customers .
Bulb said that the average customer who buys its gas and electricity will save £56 a year .
This is based on typical energy use calculations .
It comes as the price that Bulb pays for the gas it sells to customers fell , and follows a similar price drop from rival Octopus in January .
However , the company warned that households who do not use gas will see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the changes come into effect .
Electricity bills will go up for all customers , however for those who also get gas , a £78 drop in gas bills will offset the £22 rise in the electricity charge .
The electricity rises come after the amount Bulb has to pay to use the grid went up .
`` The wholesale cost of gas has come down , so we 're passing those savings on to our members .
`` Higher network and policy costs have meant we 've had to put up our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see their bills go down overall , '' said chief executive Hayden Wood .
`` Our mission is to reduce our members ' bills and cut their carbon emissions , so it 's great we 're able to cut bills for over one million homes .
`` By having a single tariff , our members know they 're always on our best deal , whether they joined us four years ago or just signed up this week . ''
Octopus Energy became the first supplier to drop prices this year , announcing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cuts promised to save customers on the default tariff about £80 on average .
Bulb said that pre-payment customers who use both gas and electricity will also see bills drop , but by only £18 per year for typical use .

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More than one million households are likely to see their gas bills drop as supplier Bulb said it would pass on savings in the wholesale energy market to customers.
Bulb said that the average customer who buys its gas and electricity will save £56 a year. This is based on typical energy use calculations.
It comes as the price that Bulb pays for the gas it sells to customers fell, and follows a similar price drop from rival Octopus in January.
However, the company warned that households who do not use gas will see their bills jump from April 1 when the changes come into effect.
(Image: Getty Images)
Electricity bills will go up for all customers, however for those who also get gas, a £78 drop in gas bills will offset the £22 rise in the electricity charge.
The electricity rises come after the amount Bulb has to pay to use the grid went up.
"The wholesale cost of gas has come down, so we're passing those savings on to our members.
"Higher network and policy costs have meant we've had to put up our electricity prices, but most members will see their bills go down overall," said chief executive Hayden Wood.
"Our mission is to reduce our members' bills and cut their carbon emissions, so it's great we're able to cut bills for over one million homes.
"By having a single tariff, our members know they're always on our best deal, whether they joined us four years ago or just signed up this week."
Octopus Energy became the first supplier to drop prices this year, announcing a 2% reduction in mid-January.
The cuts promised to save customers on the default tariff about £80 on average.
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Bulb said that pre-payment customers who use both gas and electricity will also see bills drop, but by only £18 per year for typical use.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Jordan Sinnott death: Man admits affray after non-league footballer dies

A 22-year-old man has admitted a charge of affray in connection with the death of a non-league footballer .
Matlock Town FC midfielder Jordan Sinnott died in hospital on January 25 after suffering a suspected fractured skull in an alleged assault in the centre of Retford at about 2am .
Sean Nicholson , of Beechways , Retford , was granted bail by Judge Gregory Dickinson QC after pleading guilty to unlawfully using or threatening violence towards Mr Sinnott , during an appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday .
Cameron Matthews , 21 , of Denman Close , and Kai @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both of Retford , who were charged with manslaughter , affray and common assault after the incident were not required to enter pleas .
Police were called to help ambulance crews after 25-year-old Mr Sinnott was found unconscious in the town 's Market Place .
He died later in hospital .
Paying tribute , the footballer 's family said : `` Jordan was the love of our life .
He was kind , gentle , funny and lived his life to the full each and every day .
`` He absolutely loved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we knew he was determined and driven to succeed .
`` Nothing will ever be the same again without Jordan in our lives .
It will leave a void that can never be filled . ''
Matthews and Denovan were remanded in custody to appear at the same court on May 22

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A 22-year-old man has admitted a charge of affray in connection with the death of a non-league footballer.
Matlock Town FC midfielder Jordan Sinnott died in hospital on January 25 after suffering a suspected fractured skull in an alleged assault in the centre of Retford at about 2am.
Sean Nicholson, of Beechways, Retford, was granted bail by Judge Gregory Dickinson QC after pleading guilty to unlawfully using or threatening violence towards Mr Sinnott, during an appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday.
Cameron Matthews, 21, of Denman Close, and Kai Denovan, 22, of Collins Walk, both of Retford, who were charged with manslaughter, affray and common assault after the incident were not required to enter pleas.
Police were called to help ambulance crews after 25-year-old Mr Sinnott was found unconscious in the town's Market Place. He died later in hospital.
Paying tribute, the footballer's family said: "Jordan was the love of our life. He was kind, gentle, funny and lived his life to the full each and every day.
"He was a true gentleman.
"He absolutely loved his football and from an early age we knew he was determined and driven to succeed.
"Nothing will ever be the same again without Jordan in our lives. It will leave a void that can never be filled."
Matthews and Denovan were remanded in custody to appear at the same court on May 22


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Murder suspect Tahir Zarif fails to appear in court over death of Akhtar Javeed at Digbeth warehouse

A 29-year-old suspected of shooting dead a businessman during a warehouse raid in 2016 has failed to appear in court for a preliminary hearing .
Tahir Zarif , who was extradited from Pakistan to Britain last week in connection with the murder of Akhtar Javeed , is being held at HMP Cardiff , Birmingham Crown Court heard .
A short hearing before Judge Kristina Montgomery QC was told special arrangements for Zarif 's transfer to court could not be made on Monday .
Zarif , from Derby , is alleged to have been involved in the fatal shooting of Akhtar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Javeed , aged 56 , was tied up and shot at his premises in Rea Street South on February 3 2016 .
Judge Montgomery ordered Zarif to appear via a prison videolink on Tuesday for the court to fix the date of a subsequent plea and trial preparation hearing .
Mr Javeed 's heartbroken wife Aisha , from West Ham , London , issued a plea last year for her husband 's killer to be caught .
Speaking to the BirminghamLive in 2017 , she said : `` Life can never be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , every single day .
`` Since this has happened , I have not slept for one night .
“ My husband was very polite , very nice and he was ready to help anyone .
“ He was a very caring man and he would care for everyone , whether he knew them or not .
“ The main member of my family has gone .
”

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A 29-year-old suspected of shooting dead a businessman during a warehouse raid in 2016 has failed to appear in court for a preliminary hearing.
Tahir Zarif, who was extradited from Pakistan to Britain last week in connection with the murder of Akhtar Javeed, is being held at HMP Cardiff, Birmingham Crown Court heard.
A short hearing before Judge Kristina Montgomery QC was told special arrangements for Zarif's transfer to court could not be made on Monday.
Zarif, from Derby, is alleged to have been involved in the fatal shooting of Akhtar Javeed in Digbeth, Birmingham.
Mr Javeed, aged 56, was tied up and shot at his premises in Rea Street South on February 3 2016.
Judge Montgomery ordered Zarif to appear via a prison videolink on Tuesday for the court to fix the date of a subsequent plea and trial preparation hearing.
Mr Javeed's heartbroken wife Aisha, from West Ham, London, issued a plea last year for her husband's killer to be caught.
Speaking to the BirminghamLive in 2017, she said: "Life can never be the same.
"I have been counting, every single day.
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"Since this has happened, I have not slept for one night.
“My husband was very polite, very nice and he was ready to help anyone.
“He was a very caring man and he would care for everyone, whether he knew them or not.
“The main member of my family has gone.”


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Inside the huddle: What Aston Villa player had to say about that moment after Man City game

One of the lasting images from Aston Villa ’ s Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City is that of a post-match huddle .
Villa had just been beaten 2-1 by City in the Wembley final , having given it as good as they got but coming up short under the arch .
Dean Smith gathered his staff and players in front of the applauding Villa fans , forming a big huddle and a passionate speech after the full-time whistle .
It was that show of unity between players , staff and fans that Villa will need in their battle to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland will hope to be a part of that run-in , but knows the battle for his place is fierce with Pepe Reina as competition .
“ He ( Smith ) just said the performance we did today was really good , ” Nyland said about the huddle after the match .
“ He was proud of us and we could be proud as well , now it ’ s just about doing this every week we ’ ve got and to make sure we stay up in the Premier League.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ arch and Villa ’ s hopes fading , it looked for all the world as though defender Bjorn Engels would send the game into extra time .
Conor Hourihane sent in a perfect corner from the right , Engels climbed highest and powered his header towards goal .
Claudio Bravo reacted quickly , though , and pushed the header onto the post .
In real time it looked a fine save , and replays showed a slight deflection off the back of Kyle Walker , making Bravo ’ s instincts all the more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in , ” said Nyland .
“ Just a little bit more to the side and it would probably go in .
But it was a great save and that was the decider today , unfortunately .
”

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One of the lasting images from Aston Villa’s Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City is that of a post-match huddle.
Villa had just been beaten 2-1 by City in the Wembley final, having given it as good as they got but coming up short under the arch.
Dean Smith gathered his staff and players in front of the applauding Villa fans, forming a big huddle and a passionate speech after the full-time whistle.
It was that show of unity between players, staff and fans that Villa will need in their battle to beat Premier League relegation this season.
Goalkeeper Orjan Nyland will hope to be a part of that run-in, but knows the battle for his place is fierce with Pepe Reina as competition.
“He (Smith) just said the performance we did today was really good,” Nyland said about the huddle after the match.
“He was proud of us and we could be proud as well, now it’s just about doing this every week we’ve got and to make sure we stay up in the Premier League.”
With time almost up at the arch and Villa’s hopes fading, it looked for all the world as though defender Bjorn Engels would send the game into extra time.
Conor Hourihane sent in a perfect corner from the right, Engels climbed highest and powered his header towards goal.
Claudio Bravo reacted quickly, though, and pushed the header onto the post. In real time it looked a fine save, and replays showed a slight deflection off the back of Kyle Walker, making Bravo’s instincts all the more impressive.
“I thought it was in,” said Nyland.
“Just a little bit more to the side and it would probably go in. But it was a great save and that was the decider today, unfortunately.”


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Aston Villa learn new update on John McGinn injury - reports

John McGinn is set to provide Aston Villa with a welcome boost in their fight against Premier League relegation by returning from injury .
Scotland international McGinn has been out since December after suffering a fractured ankle in the defeat to Southampton at Villa Park .
He posted on social media on Saturday revealing a return to light training , raising hopes that a return could be imminent .
The Telegraph reports McGinn is targeting the away match against Newcastle United on March 21 to come back into Dean Smith ’ s side .
Meanwhile , Smith confirmed Jack Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City .
Fans on social media speculated that he was playing through an injury because of his subdued performance at the national stadium and hearts were in mouths when he went down at the end .
However , the Villa captain had cramp in his calf following an afternoon of chasing a City side who had 72 % of the posession .
`` No , '' head coach Dean Smith said when asked if Grealish was injured .
`` His calf cramped up a little bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday and here is the latest on their injured players ahead of the match : Details : McGinn left the pitch in considerable pain on December 21 and was helped by two of Villa 's medical staff as he hobbled down the touchline .
What Smith said : `` Knowing him he will be aiming for Leicester ( on March 9 ) now and , if not Leicester , then Chelsea ( March 14 ) , that 's the way his mind works .
He just wants to get playing .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and when I spoke to him , how disappointed he is not to be involved . ''
Details : After scoring his fifth league goal of the season , Wesley 's game was ended after a heavy tackle from Burnley defender Ben Mee .
The striker has since been ruled out for the rest of the campaign .
What Smith said : `` Young Wesley , our record signing has come in , awful lot of pressure on his shoulders , made his debut for Brazil this season and was playing really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good goal and unfortunately for him he is out for the season as well . ''
Details : Steer started in goal due to Tom Heaton 's absence against Wolves in November but only managed to play eight minutes before he was forced off .
The goalkeeper hurt himself after attempting a save and Orjan Nyland was brought on .
What Smith has said : `` Unfortunately Jed Steer got injured within four minutes of his first game of the season against Wolves – he ’ s out for another couple of months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Burnley stopper had to come off after landing heavily when trying to stop Chris Wood 's header late on at Turf Moor .
Nyland came on for Heaton , leaving Villa with only two senior 'keepers at the club .
What Smith said : `` Tom is a player I wanted to bring in at the start of the season , Premier League player , England goalkeeper , a great character and a leader .
`` He ’ s proven that in the dressing room already , I feel for him and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nailed on to go to the Euros in the summer .
Really disappointed for him .
`` I ’ m not sure of the actual extent .
I ’ ve been told they are significant knee injuries , so they will go and see the experts .
I won ’ t go into the medical terminology of what they ’ ve done I ’ ve just been told significant knee injury .
`` We ’ ve just spoken and it ’ s out for the season , that ’ s all I need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can start planning for the rest of this season . ''

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Aston Villa's battle against Premier League relegation continues on Sunday, as Dean Smith's side face a daunting trip to Liverpool.
It's the Reds' first game at Anfield since wrapping up the league title, but do come into the game on the back of a 4-0 thumping by Man City.
Villa meanwhile, will be looking to kick-start their fight for survival, after picking up just two points from the first four games following the return of football last month,
Smith bemoaned the hectic fixture schedule in the opening portion of the restart, but has now had a full week to prepare for Jurgen Klopp's champions.
Ahead of tomorrow's game here's Villa's injury list in full...
Wesley Moraes
Injury: Knee, anterior cruciate ligament
Details: Wesley was carried from the Turf Moor pitch after a heavy tackle by Burnley defender Ben Mee on New Year's Day. The striker has since been ruled out for the rest of the campaign, and while he is happy to update fans on his return, it is all eyes on next season, for Villa's record signing.
Last match: Wednesday, January 1: Burnley 1-2 Aston Villa
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What Smith said: When asked how Wesley was progressing, he replied: "As we expected them to but they won’t be ready for these 10 games."
What Wesley said: “I do my physio everyday, two times a day, so now I feel confident and I feel great,” he told VillaTV.
“I try to do some passing, but sometimes a get a bit of pain, but now the last two or three weeks I feel great.”
Expected return: Summer 2020
Tom Heaton
Injury: Knee, anterior cruciate ligament
Details: The former Burnley stopper had to come off after landing heavily when trying to stop Chris Wood's header late on at Turf Moor. Heaton has attempted to do his best in rehab, but Smith confirmed the England international is now focusing on returning at the start of next season.
Last match: Wednesday, January 1: Burnley 1-2 Aston Villa
What Smith said: Similarly to Wesley, the Villa boss confirmed, he wouldn't be available for the final 10 games, as he gave an update on his recovery claiming, "they won’t be ready for these 10 games."
(Image: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
What Heaton has said: "I'm really pleased with the progress. It feels solid and stable. I'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up.
“In reality, it's going to be a big ask to get back in terms of this season.
“But I'm certainly hopeful to be ready to roll by the time the season kicks off next season, whenever that is going to be.”I'm really pleased with the progress. It feels solid and stable. I'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up."
Expected return: Summer 2020
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Frederic Guilbert
Injury: Knee
Details: The full-back is believed to have tweaked his knee in the hammering at Leicester City, but has been back in full training ahead of the trip to Anfield.
Last match: Monday, March 9: Leicester City 4-0 Aston Villa
What Smith said: "Freddie has trained all week and is pushing for a place."
What he's said: "I follow the (training) programme," Guilbert explained last month. "If I say no, the gaffer will kill me! I have a specific programme because I have pain on my knee. I'm working hard to be present when league restarts."
Expected return: Liverpool (a), July 5.
Matt Targett
Injury: Hamstring
Details: The defender hobbled off in the opening minutes of the defeat to Wolves. Initially, there were fears he could be out for three weeks, although Smith provided a more positive prognosis.
(Image: Getty Images)
Last match: Saturday, June 27: Aston Villa 0-1 Wolves
What Smith said: "Matt's injury isn't as bad as we feared as we're hopeful he'll be back for Crystal Palace."
Expected return: Crystal Palace (H), July 12.
Ezri Konsa
Injury: Bruised foot
Details: Konsa has started all four of Villa's games, post-suspension, but Smith has revealed he has been out of training in the week leading up to Liverpool and is a major doubt.
What Smith said: "The only one is Ezri Konsa, who had a bit of a whack on the foot and hasn't trained as of today but we're hopeful he will come through."


birminghammail--2020-03-02--'I tried' - Aston Villa striker Mbwana Samatta on his bittersweet Wembley experience

Mbwana Samatta ’ s Wembley outing for Aston Villa turned out to be a bittersweet one .
The January signing has hit the ground running since making the move from Genk to the Premier League , and he showed more signs of that on Sunday .
Samatta was handed a spot in the starting 11 in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City and got his name on the scoresheet in the first half .
Anwar El Ghazi pounced on a John Stones error and sent in an excellent cross from the left .
Samatta charged into the box and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bravo and into the back of the net to get Villa back into the game .
That header came after Sergio Aguero and Rodri had the reigning champions 2-0 up at Wembley .
But was it a special moment for Samatta to score at the national stadium ?
“ Kinda , ” he said .
“ I just wanted to win the cup .
“ Better than scoring at Wembley is to win the cup.
” He added : “ I just tried to be available in the box .
Ghazi has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me – he is always talking about that – when I get the ball I will try to find you or cross the ball , we spoke before the game .
“ When I saw him running I thought 'OK I will try to get inside the box ' .
It was a powerful cross , I tried to put my head there.
” Despite the 2-1 defeat , Villa left with their heads held high after pushing Pep Guardiola ’ s men all the way , “ I think it was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Samatta .
“ They had a lot of possession but we also created some chances to score and in the end maybe could be 2-2 .
“ We stay focussed , we still have a lot of games to play and I ’ m sure if we continue to play the way we played today we will have a positive result in the next game .
”

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Mbwana Samatta’s Wembley outing for Aston Villa turned out to be a bittersweet one.
The January signing has hit the ground running since making the move from Genk to the Premier League, and he showed more signs of that on Sunday.
Samatta was handed a spot in the starting 11 in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City and got his name on the scoresheet in the first half.
Anwar El Ghazi pounced on a John Stones error and sent in an excellent cross from the left.
Samatta charged into the box and planted a firm diving header past Claudio Bravo and into the back of the net to get Villa back into the game.
That header came after Sergio Aguero and Rodri had the reigning champions 2-0 up at Wembley.
But was it a special moment for Samatta to score at the national stadium?
“Kinda,” he said. “I just wanted to win the cup.
“Better than scoring at Wembley is to win the cup.”
He added: “I just tried to be available in the box. Ghazi has the kind of ball to try and find me – he is always talking about that – when I get the ball I will try to find you or cross the ball, we spoke before the game.
“When I saw him running I thought 'OK I will try to get inside the box'. It was a powerful cross, I tried to put my head there.”
Despite the 2-1 defeat, Villa left with their heads held high after pushing Pep Guardiola’s men all the way,
“I think it was not a bad game for us,” said Samatta.
“They had a lot of possession but we also created some chances to score and in the end maybe could be 2-2.
“We stay focussed, we still have a lot of games to play and I’m sure if we continue to play the way we played today we will have a positive result in the next game.”


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Workers could be asked to stay home as Boris Johnson publishes coronavirus action plan

Employees may be encouraged to work from home if coronavirus continues to spread , Prime Minister Boris Johnson will confirm .
Mr Johnson is to set out the Government ’ s action plan to tackle the spread of coronavirus .
He will host a press conference in Downing Street to launch the plan , alongside the Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance .
It comes after four new UK cases , including people from Hertfordshire , south Devon and Kent , were confirmed .
All had travelled recently to Italy , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson said : `` It is highly likely coronavirus will spread more widely in the coming days and weeks , which is why we ’ re making every possible preparation . ''
• None The option , should the virus spread , to encourage more home working and discourage unnecessary travel as part of a ‘ social distancing ’ strategy that could delay the peak of the outbreak until later in the year , potentially helping combat the virus in warmer weather conditions • None Looking at emergency registration of health professionals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency indemnity coverage for health care workers to provide care or diagnostic services and relaxation of rules around staff to pupil ratios in education and childcare settings • None Every government department having a designated Ministerial virus lead to oversee the response to the global threat of the virus , for instance on schools or businesses • None A war room set up in the Cabinet Office , bringing together communications experts and scientists from across government and the NHS to roll out the public information campaign • None Coronavirus being a standing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the PM continuing to oversee the Government approach Later in the week , a major public information campaign will be launched setting out clear steps the public can take to limit the spread of the virus , including washing their hands regularly with soap and water .
New laws published in the coming weeks to ensure Government has all the necessary powers to prepare for and tackle the coronavirus outbreak .
On Monday , the Prime Minister brought together the Government ’ s emergency COBR committee on the coronavirus outbreak , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the battle plan .
He said : `` If the virus should spread , we are ready to take necessary steps to contain it and protect the most vulnerable .
`` But we can all continue to do our bit to fight this virus - by washing our hands with soap and water for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice . ''
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has pledged that the NHS and Britain 's scientists will receive the funding they need in the battle against coronavirus .
And he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support the economy , including in next month 's Budget statement .
Stock markets in the US , UK and elsewhere have already suffered major downturns .
Coronavirus could have a major impact on the UK economy if it leads to the closure of offices and factories , as has happened in China .
Mr Sunak said : “ We are well prepared for this global threat and , as the wider economic picture becomes clearer , we stand ready to announce further support where needed.
” The Chancellor has tasked officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public health response , businesses and the economy as needed .
One of the cases diagnosed on Monday was a worker at the North East London NHS Foundation Trust offices at Vinters Business Park near Maidstone in Kent .
Another is somebody from a secondary school in Torbay .
Some 13 new patients in the UK were diagnosed on Sunday , including a member of staff at Wimbledon College and a clinician at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in Northwood , Middlesex , which is part of East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England were linked to a man from Surrey , who was infected within the UK .
Globally , around 86,000 people have been infected , with more than 3,000 deaths .

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Employees may be encouraged to work from home if coronavirus continues to spread, Prime Minister Boris Johnson will confirm.
Mr Johnson is to set out the Government’s action plan to tackle the spread of coronavirus. He will host a press conference in Downing Street to launch the plan, alongside the Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance.
It comes after four new UK cases, including people from Hertfordshire, south Devon and Kent, were confirmed. All had travelled recently to Italy, which is experiencing the biggest outbreak in Europe.
Mr Johnson said: "It is highly likely coronavirus will spread more widely in the coming days and weeks, which is why we’re making every possible preparation."
Measures in the plan include:
The option, should the virus spread, to encourage more home working and discourage unnecessary travel as part of a ‘social distancing’ strategy that could delay the peak of the outbreak until later in the year, potentially helping combat the virus in warmer weather conditions
Looking at emergency registration of health professionals who have retired, the introduction of emergency indemnity coverage for health care workers to provide care or diagnostic services and relaxation of rules around staff to pupil ratios in education and childcare settings
Every government department having a designated Ministerial virus lead to oversee the response to the global threat of the virus, for instance on schools or businesses
A war room set up in the Cabinet Office, bringing together communications experts and scientists from across government and the NHS to roll out the public information campaign
Coronavirus being a standing item on the weekly Cabinet agenda, with the PM continuing to oversee the Government approach
Later in the week, a major public information campaign will be launched setting out clear steps the public can take to limit the spread of the virus, including washing their hands regularly with soap and water.
New laws published in the coming weeks to ensure Government has all the necessary powers to prepare for and tackle the coronavirus outbreak.
On Monday, the Prime Minister brought together the Government’s emergency COBR committee on the coronavirus outbreak, where attendees discussed, finalised and signed off the battle plan.
He said: "If the virus should spread, we are ready to take necessary steps to contain it and protect the most vulnerable.
"But we can all continue to do our bit to fight this virus - by washing our hands with soap and water for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice."
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has pledged that the NHS and Britain's scientists will receive the funding they need in the battle against coronavirus.
And he said he was ready to provide help to support the economy, including in next month's Budget statement.
Stock markets in the US, UK and elsewhere have already suffered major downturns. Coronavirus could have a major impact on the UK economy if it leads to the closure of offices and factories, as has happened in China.
Mr Sunak said: “We are well prepared for this global threat and, as the wider economic picture becomes clearer, we stand ready to announce further support where needed.”
The Chancellor has tasked officials to work up further measures to support the public health response, businesses and the economy as needed.
One of the cases diagnosed on Monday was a worker at the North East London NHS Foundation Trust offices at Vinters Business Park near Maidstone in Kent.
Another is somebody from a secondary school in Torbay.
Some 13 new patients in the UK were diagnosed on Sunday, including a member of staff at Wimbledon College and a clinician at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in Northwood, Middlesex, which is part of East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust.
Three of the new cases in England were linked to a man from Surrey, who was infected within the UK.
Globally, around 86,000 people have been infected, with more than 3,000 deaths.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Michy Batshuayi update as Man Utd receive Jack Grealish plea

Hello and welcome to Monday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up @ @ @ @ @ latest news and views from Villa Park as the dust settles on an eventful afternoon @ @ @ @ @ 's side were beaten 2-1 in the Carabao Cup final by Manchester City yesterday , @ @ @ @ @ cup competitions this season .
Goals from Sergio Aguero and Rodri had City in control @ @ @ @ @ Samatta scored four minutes before half-time to set up a tense second half .
Only @ @ @ @ @ forcing City into extra time , with Claudio Bravo palming away a Bjorn Engels header @ @ @ @ @ the woodwork .
Now it 's all eyes on the League for Villa with 11 @ @ @ @ @ from 19th place .
Stick with us for all today 's action on the blog @

Hello and welcome to Monday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest news and views from Villa Park as the dust settles on an eventful afternoon at Wembley.
Dean Smith 's side were beaten 2-1 in the Carabao Cup final by Manchester City yesterday, ending Villa's involvement in cup competitions this season.
Goals from Sergio Aguero and Rodri had City in control after half-an-hour, but Mbwana Samatta scored four minutes before half-time to set up a tense second half.
Only the post came between Villa forcing City into extra time, with Claudio Bravo palming away a Bjorn Engels header in the dying minutes onto the woodwork.
Now it's all eyes on the League for Villa with 11 games left to raise themselves from 19th place.
Stick with us for all today's action on the blog...


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Tilda Swinton issues brutal swipe at multiplex cinemas Odeon, Cineworld and Vue

Tilda Swinton has said the UK needs more small cinemas to enable the film industry to make a broader range of movies that can be shown `` outside of the multiplex '' .
Speaking before a dinner where she was presented with British Film Institute 's most prestigious accolade , the BFI Fellowship , the actress said there is a `` limit '' to how much people are willing to see the types of films shown in large , multi-screen cinemas .
She told the PA news agency : `` We need a lot of cinemas .
Little cinemas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into Tescos and can be turned back into cinemas .
`` We need blow up cinemas in the park .
We need spaces to show a range of films outside of the multiplex . ''
The Oscar-winner added : `` We all love going to the multiplex but there is a limit to how many times you can see something that you only see there .
`` The more cinemas we have the more we 're going to remember that however much we like watching something on the end of our bed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we love sitting in the dark with a bunch of strangers . ''
Swinton added that despite the rise of streaming , cinemas will remain relevant to film fans .
She said : `` I 'm a great believer in the moment that I do believe is coming .
`` We all buy a CD and we get to know that music really well and if that band comes to town we 'll go and see them live .
`` I think that will start to happen with cinema .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because we 've watched it on Netflix and then when it comes to a big screen near us , we will still go and see it live . ''
Swinton was chosen for the award in recognition of her `` daringly eclectic and striking talents as a performer and film-maker '' and for her `` great contribution to film culture , independent film exhibition and philanthropy '' , according to the BFI .
She said it was a `` little embarrassing '' to be given the accolade , adding : `` I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what to say about it .
I 'm just very happy . ''
Ben Roberts , chief executive of the BFI , said the accolade was given to Swinton because she is at a high point in her career .
He told PA : `` It 's not a lifetime achievement award .
We want to make it for someone at the peak of their powers .
We think Tilda Swinton is absolutely that person .
`` She is a performer of unrivalled range .
She is one of our greatest actresses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the likes of Dame Judi Dench , Hugh Grant , Al Pacino , Tim Burton , Cate Blanchett , Martin Scorsese and Vanessa Redgrave in receiving the honour .
Olivia Colman was the recipient last year .

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Tilda Swinton has said the UK needs more small cinemas to enable the film industry to make a broader range of movies that can be shown "outside of the multiplex".
Speaking before a dinner where she was presented with British Film Institute's most prestigious accolade, the BFI Fellowship, the actress said there is a "limit" to how much people are willing to see the types of films shown in large, multi-screen cinemas.
She told the PA news agency: "We need a lot of cinemas. Little cinemas, refurbished old cinemas that have been turned into Tescos and can be turned back into cinemas.
"We need blow up cinemas in the park. We need spaces to show a range of films outside of the multiplex."
The Oscar-winner added: "We all love going to the multiplex but there is a limit to how many times you can see something that you only see there.
"The more cinemas we have the more we're going to remember that however much we like watching something on the end of our bed, we really love going to the pictures and we love sitting in the dark with a bunch of strangers."
Swinton added that despite the rise of streaming, cinemas will remain relevant to film fans.
She said: "I'm a great believer in the moment that I do believe is coming.
"We all buy a CD and we get to know that music really well and if that band comes to town we'll go and see them live.
"I think that will start to happen with cinema.
"We will get to know something really well because we've watched it on Netflix and then when it comes to a big screen near us, we will still go and see it live."
Swinton was chosen for the award in recognition of her "daringly eclectic and striking talents as a performer and film-maker" and for her "great contribution to film culture, independent film exhibition and philanthropy", according to the BFI.
She said it was a "little embarrassing" to be given the accolade, adding: "I'm just super honoured and don't really know what to say about it. I'm just very happy."
Ben Roberts, chief executive of the BFI, said the accolade was given to Swinton because she is at a high point in her career.
He told PA: "It's not a lifetime achievement award. We want to make it for someone at the peak of their powers. We think Tilda Swinton is absolutely that person.
"She is a performer of unrivalled range. She is one of our greatest actresses."
Swinton follows in the footsteps of the likes of Dame Judi Dench, Hugh Grant, Al Pacino, Tim Burton, Cate Blanchett, Martin Scorsese and Vanessa Redgrave in receiving the honour.
Olivia Colman was the recipient last year.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Google staff ordered to work from home on Tuesday amid coronavirus fear

Staff at tech giant Google 's European headquarters in Dublin have been told to work from home on Tuesday due to Covid-19 .
It is testing its preparedness by initiating a company-wide work from home day on Tuesday to limit the spread of infection , but most are expected to return to their desks on Wednesday .
One worker has reported flu-like symptoms which have not been confirmed as a strain of the coronavirus , Irish media reported .
Ireland has one case , a boy in the east of the country who contracted the virus in one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has postponed meetings in counties Cavan and Galway and is staying at home after she revealed her children go to the school where a coronavirus case was confirmed .
In a video message posted on Sinn Fein 's Twitter account , Ms McDonald said it is a `` worrying time '' for families and staff at the school .
`` My children 's school is closed for the next fortnight because of a confirmed case of the coronavirus , '' she said in the video message .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief medical officer 's advice and therefore the children have to be at home for the next 14 days .
`` This is a worrying time for families and for the staff at the school , particularly for the family of the person affected , and we wish them a very , very speedy recovery .
`` Remember to follow all of the advice , to listen to the medical advice and to wash your hands with warm , soapy water and to wash them again , to take care of yourselves and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland 's chief medical officer defended as `` proportionate '' the decision to close the secondary school for two weeks after it was confirmed a student was diagnosed with coronavirus at the weekend .
Dr Tony Holohan also said he believes the risk of the infection spreading in Ireland is still low .
The school has been closed for 14 days from Monday , during which all pupils and teachers are being asked to restrict their movements .
Speaking on RTE 's Morning Ireland , Dr Holohan said authorities are not naming the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the patient .
He added that health officials carried out an assessment of the case which concluded in the closure of the school .
`` We felt this was a proportionate measure and I ( want ) to stress that we believe that the risk of transmission infection , even despite the contact , will still be low , '' he said .
In a letter sent to parents by the HSE , it was confirmed that children , teachers and school staff have been advised to limit their social interactions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events .
`` This measure is focused on the children , it 's not focused on their families and it 's not focused on the wider community , '' Dr Holohan added .
`` Each of the parents will get a text message on each of the days of the incubation period , asking whether or not their child or staff member have symptoms , and if they say yes to that text message they will have follow-up engagement with public health doctors .
`` The purpose of that is to at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Health officials are working to identify everyone who came in close contact with the infected student .
A letter from the chief medical officer to parents of all school children across the country said : `` Siblings not attending the school concerned , parents and other members of the community are not regarded as contacts and can continue their daily routine as normal . ''
A number of local sports clubs confirmed they have cancelled training and matches in response to the confirmed case , but Dr Holohan said this was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may make recommendations like that but we are not recommending such things , '' he added .
`` I 've seen some things on social media myself where people have expressed concern about driving through a specific area as a result of the information that 's on social media .
`` These concerns have no basis in fact whatsoever .
`` Anybody who has access to social media has access to HSE.ie .
The information there is absolutely comprehensive , it 's trustworthy and that 's the source of information parents should use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circulates on social media is false and people can not trust that as a source of information . ''
Asked about upcoming public events , including St Patrick 's Day celebrations , Dr Holohan said health officials are continuing to assess whether they will go ahead .
He added : `` We do recognise that there may be a very small number of very large significant national events where organisers will wish to have advice .
`` We will be anxious to engage with the organisers of those and we see no immediate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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Staff at tech giant Google's European headquarters in Dublin have been told to work from home on Tuesday due to Covid-19.
It is testing its preparedness by initiating a company-wide work from home day on Tuesday to limit the spread of infection, but most are expected to return to their desks on Wednesday.
One worker has reported flu-like symptoms which have not been confirmed as a strain of the coronavirus, Irish media reported.
Ireland has one case, a boy in the east of the country who contracted the virus in one of the affected areas of Italy.
Google employs thousands in the Irish capital.
Meanwhile, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has postponed meetings in counties Cavan and Galway and is staying at home after she revealed her children go to the school where a coronavirus case was confirmed.
In a video message posted on Sinn Fein's Twitter account, Ms McDonald said it is a "worrying time" for families and staff at the school.
"My children's school is closed for the next fortnight because of a confirmed case of the coronavirus," she said in the video message.
"We're following all of the chief medical officer's advice and therefore the children have to be at home for the next 14 days.
"This is a worrying time for families and for the staff at the school, particularly for the family of the person affected, and we wish them a very, very speedy recovery.
"Remember to follow all of the advice, to listen to the medical advice and to wash your hands with warm, soapy water and to wash them again, to take care of yourselves and take care of each other."
Ireland's chief medical officer defended as "proportionate" the decision to close the secondary school for two weeks after it was confirmed a student was diagnosed with coronavirus at the weekend.
(Image: PA)
Dr Tony Holohan also said he believes the risk of the infection spreading in Ireland is still low.
The school has been closed for 14 days from Monday, during which all pupils and teachers are being asked to restrict their movements.
Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland, Dr Holohan said authorities are not naming the school to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the patient.
He added that health officials carried out an assessment of the case which concluded in the closure of the school.
(Image: AP)
"We felt this was a proportionate measure and I (want) to stress that we believe that the risk of transmission infection, even despite the contact, will still be low," he said.
In a letter sent to parents by the HSE, it was confirmed that children, teachers and school staff have been advised to limit their social interactions, avoid social gatherings and not attend sporting events.
"This measure is focused on the children, it's not focused on their families and it's not focused on the wider community," Dr Holohan added.
"Each of the parents will get a text message on each of the days of the incubation period, asking whether or not their child or staff member have symptoms, and if they say yes to that text message they will have follow-up engagement with public health doctors.
"The purpose of that is to at the earliest possible stage identify another case."
Health officials are working to identify everyone who came in close contact with the infected student.
A letter from the chief medical officer to parents of all school children across the country said: "Siblings not attending the school concerned, parents and other members of the community are not regarded as contacts and can continue their daily routine as normal."
A number of local sports clubs confirmed they have cancelled training and matches in response to the confirmed case, but Dr Holohan said this was not necessary.
"I understand why people may make recommendations like that but we are not recommending such things," he added.
"I've seen some things on social media myself where people have expressed concern about driving through a specific area as a result of the information that's on social media.
"These concerns have no basis in fact whatsoever.
"Anybody who has access to social media has access to HSE.ie. The information there is absolutely comprehensive, it's trustworthy and that's the source of information parents should use.
"Much of the information that circulates on social media is false and people cannot trust that as a source of information."
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Asked about upcoming public events, including St Patrick's Day celebrations, Dr Holohan said health officials are continuing to assess whether they will go ahead.
He added: "We do recognise that there may be a very small number of very large significant national events where organisers will wish to have advice.
"We will be anxious to engage with the organisers of those and we see no immediate implications for some of the mass gatherings."


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Most doctors fear the NHS is not prepared for coronavirus

Many doctors are concerned the NHS is not well prepared for a coronavirus outbreak , according to a medics ' group .
Boris Johnson has insisted the country is ready with a `` fantastic '' health service , but the Doctors ' Association UK said less than 1 % agree .
Dr Rinesh Parmar , chairman of the group - which describes itself as a campaigning and lobbying organisation made up solely of UK doctors , said there is a fear an already-stretched NHS will not cope if there is a sudden increase in coronavirus cases .
He told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS has already been brought to its knees and many doctors fear that our health system simply wo n't cope in the event of influx of coronavirus patients .
`` With nearly 10,000 doctor vacancies and 43,000 nurse vacancies ( in the NHS in England ) the NHS is already understaffed to deal with demand .
`` A & E waiting times are the worst on record .
Intensive care units are at capacity and are even struggling to admit patients who are critically unwell or awaiting cancer surgery . ''
Of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` do you feel the NHS is well prepared for coronavirus ? ''
just eight said they thought it was , the group said .
The Department of Health has said the NHS is `` ready to fight '' the virus , but has urged the public to do their bit by following advice on general hygiene including handwashing and self-isolation if needs be .

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Many doctors are concerned the NHS is not well prepared for a coronavirus outbreak, according to a medics' group.
Boris Johnson has insisted the country is ready with a "fantastic" health service, but the Doctors' Association UK said less than 1% agree.
Dr Rinesh Parmar, chairman of the group - which describes itself as a campaigning and lobbying organisation made up solely of UK doctors, said there is a fear an already-stretched NHS will not cope if there is a sudden increase in coronavirus cases.
He told the Guardian: "The truth is the NHS has already been brought to its knees and many doctors fear that our health system simply won't cope in the event of influx of coronavirus patients.
(Image: AP)
"With nearly 10,000 doctor vacancies and 43,000 nurse vacancies (in the NHS in England) the NHS is already understaffed to deal with demand.
"A&E waiting times are the worst on record. Intensive care units are at capacity and are even struggling to admit patients who are critically unwell or awaiting cancer surgery."
Of the 1,618 who replied to the survey question "do you feel the NHS is well prepared for coronavirus?" just eight said they thought it was, the group said.
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The Department of Health has said the NHS is "ready to fight" the virus, but has urged the public to do their bit by following advice on general hygiene including handwashing and self-isolation if needs be.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--‘Imagine my shock’ - Aston Villa fans are all making the same demand to Dean Smith

Aston Villa fans are calling on Dean Smith to hand Louie Barry a chance in the first-team after he bagged his first under-23s goal .
16-year-old Barry was a January arrival from Barcelona and Villa are hugely excited about the striker ’ s potential .
Speaking at the Villa Supporters Trust AGM in February , chief executive Christian Purslow said : “ The signing of Louie Barry from Barcelona was… sometimes in business and in sport , sometimes you need a marquee development to signal to the rest of the marketplace that we ’ re back in business .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 and 16-year-olds and their parents that Aston Villa is deadly serious about youth football .
So we take the only British 16-year-old to ever be transferred to Spain . ''
Barry made his competitive debut for the U23s last week and impressed by setting up two goals in a 3-0 win over Portsmouth .
The former West Bromwich Albion youngster was included in the starting XI for Monday ’ s Premier League 2 clash against Reading and this time went one better , scoring in a 3-1 defeat .
TB : Barry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team set up next season regardless of what league we are in IMO Reece J : We go down , that kid is probably straight into the first team is n't he ?

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Aston Villa fans are calling on Dean Smith to hand Louie Barry a chance in the first-team after he bagged his first under-23s goal.
16-year-old Barry was a January arrival from Barcelona and Villa are hugely excited about the striker’s potential.
Speaking at the Villa Supporters Trust AGM in February, chief executive Christian Purslow said: “The signing of Louie Barry from Barcelona was… sometimes in business and in sport, sometimes you need a marquee development to signal to the rest of the marketplace that we’re back in business.
“We wanted to signal to 14, 15 and 16-year-olds and their parents that Aston Villa is deadly serious about youth football. So we take the only British 16-year-old to ever be transferred to Spain."
Barry made his competitive debut for the U23s last week and impressed by setting up two goals in a 3-0 win over Portsmouth.
The former West Bromwich Albion youngster was included in the starting XI for Monday’s Premier League 2 clash against Reading and this time went one better, scoring in a 3-1 defeat.
Here's how Villa fans reacted:
Garin: Louie Barry scoring for Villa U23s, imagine my shock.
Olly: Generational talent.
Lewis Price: Louie Barry again, jeez this kid.
Joe: Give Barry the Senior Call Up.
Kurtis Arnold: Play this kid.
TB: Barry will be in and around the first team set up next season regardless of what league we are in IMO
Reece J: We go down, that kid is probably straight into the first team isn't he?


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Maura Higgins and Curtis Pritchard split as Love Island stars issue dramatic statement

Love Island stars Maura Higgins and Curtis Pritchard have sensationally called time on their relationship .
The pair , who shot to fame on the 2019 series of the ITV2 reality show , have called it quits .
The duo have confirmed their split in a dramatic statement tonight ( Monday , March 2 ) .
Maura has enjoyed stints on daytime ITV favourites since the show , filmed in Mallorca last summer , came to an end .
Curtis , meanwhile , has enjoyed appearances on the likes of RuPaul 's Drag Race UK , where he served as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Posting an Instagram story , Maura wrote : `` Curtis and I have made the decision to separate .
`` We enjoyed a great experience from our time in the villa and want to thank everyone for supporting our relationship .
`` There is no easy way to get through a breakup and no bad feeling on either side .
`` We tried to make it work but it was n't too be and I wish Curtis nothing but the best future . ''
Curtis , 24 , is yet to comment on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury are the only ones still going strong , after winners Amber Gill and Greg O'Shea split just weeks after the final .
India Reynolds and Ovie Soko , Anton Danyluk and Belle Hassan , Chris Taylor and Harley Brash and Lucie Donlan and Joe Garratt also split .

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Love Island stars Maura Higgins and Curtis Pritchard have sensationally called time on their relationship.
The pair, who shot to fame on the 2019 series of the ITV2 reality show, have called it quits.
The duo have confirmed their split in a dramatic statement tonight (Monday, March 2).
Maura has enjoyed stints on daytime ITV favourites since the show, filmed in Mallorca last summer, came to an end.
Curtis, meanwhile, has enjoyed appearances on the likes of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, where he served as a dance adviser alongside brother AJ.
(Image: ITV)
Posting an Instagram story, Maura wrote: "Curtis and I have made the decision to separate.
"We enjoyed a great experience from our time in the villa and want to thank everyone for supporting our relationship.
"There is no easy way to get through a breakup and no bad feeling on either side.
"We tried to make it work but it wasn't too be and I wish Curtis nothing but the best future."
Maura, 29, finished her post with a broken heart emoji.
Curtis, 24, is yet to comment on the news.
From the 2019 series, Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury are the only ones still going strong, after winners Amber Gill and Greg O'Shea split just weeks after the final.
India Reynolds and Ovie Soko, Anton Danyluk and Belle Hassan, Chris Taylor and Harley Brash and Lucie Donlan and Joe Garratt also split.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--'I fear for my child's life' - residents speak of crime fears after Tipton stabbing

Worried residents have spoken of their crime fears after a man was stabbed in Tipton .
A 25-year-old was rushed to hospital with a ‘ serious ’ knife wound to his stomach after he was found collapsed next to a block of flats .
Emergency services cordoned off Dudley Port for a number of hours following the attack just before 5pm on Sunday , March 1 .
Police said the victim remained in a serious but stable condition on Monday , March 2 .
A 19-year-old was arrested in connection with the incident .
The owner of Jolly ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a shock , that sort of thing doesn ’ t normally happen around here .
“ We ’ re very close on this stretch of shops , everyone knows each other.
” A resident of Dudley Port Flats , who asked to remain anonymous , said : “ For the past five years we have made complaints about anti-social behaviour .
“ Doors are broken and there ’ s no CCTV so teenagers who don ’ t live here just walk .
“ I fear for my child ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not better .
He ’ s only four and I can ’ t let him outside to play because I don ’ t know what he will find .
“ It ’ s a family-orientated block of flats .
It shouldn ’ t take a stabbing for something to be done about it.
” The stabbing happened on the side of a busy main road , near Dudley Port railway station .
Describing the victim , a resident said : “ He ’ s a lovely lad , always polite and will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Another added : “ I don ’ t even want to put my washing out because the poles get ripped up by kids that don ’ t live here .
“ It ’ s a shame , we live here and we look after our properties and invest in our homes , so it ’ s a shame the outside doesn ’ t reflect the inside.
” And another said : “ You hear about these things all the time but when it comes so close , it ’ s worrying .
”

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Worried residents have spoken of their crime fears after a man was stabbed in Tipton.
A 25-year-old was rushed to hospital with a ‘serious’ knife wound to his stomach after he was found collapsed next to a block of flats.
Emergency services cordoned off Dudley Port for a number of hours following the attack just before 5pm on Sunday, March 1.
Police said the victim remained in a serious but stable condition on Monday, March 2. A 19-year-old was arrested in connection with the incident.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
The owner of Jolly’s Fish and Chip Shop said: “It’s a shock, that sort of thing doesn’t normally happen around here.
“We’re very close on this stretch of shops, everyone knows each other.”
A resident of Dudley Port Flats, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “For the past five years we have made complaints about anti-social behaviour.
“Doors are broken and there’s no CCTV so teenagers who don’t live here just walk.
“I fear for my child’s life. It’s getting worse, not better. He’s only four and I can’t let him outside to play because I don’t know what he will find.
(Image: @ThisisTipton)
“It’s a family-orientated block of flats. It shouldn’t take a stabbing for something to be done about it.”
The stabbing happened on the side of a busy main road, near Dudley Port railway station.
Describing the victim, a resident said: “He’s a lovely lad, always polite and will hold the door open for you.”
Another added: “I don’t even want to put my washing out because the poles get ripped up by kids that don’t live here.
“It’s a shame, we live here and we look after our properties and invest in our homes, so it’s a shame the outside doesn’t reflect the inside.”
And another said: “You hear about these things all the time but when it comes so close, it’s worrying.”
Black Country Live has contacted Sandwell Council for a comment.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Alleged cannabis grower caused friend's death in massive explosion, trial told

An alleged cannabis farmer caused his friend 's death when a butane gas blast ripped through the site of the operation , a court was told .
Tobias Gordon died after suffering burns while Darren Stevenson survived , jurors at Birmingham Crown Court heard .
Stevenson , 32 , of no fixed address , is on trial accused of manslaughter , reckless arson and producing cannabis .
It is claimed he was responsible for Mr Gordon 's death because of his reckless actions .
Darron Whitehead , prosecuting , said Stevenson and Mr Gordon were growing the drug at flats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November 2014 .
He told the jury : `` There was an explosion and a fire at a block of flats .
`` You will understand how reckless these two mens ' actions were .
`` In this case the prosecution suggests Mr Gordon and this defendant were producing cannabis using butane gas and a cooker and a stove in a kitchen inside the defendant ’ s flat .
`` This process caused an explosion , a fire flash and the building partly collapsed .
`` In these particular circumstances , Stevenson would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participated in the unlawful act which has lead to the death of another person .
`` It is not suggested the explosion was deliberate but it was not an accident either .
A resident who rushed to try to help recognised the defendant and Mr Gordon , said Mr Whitehead .
He went on : `` She had seen these two men coming and going from the flat .
`` It was common knowledge that Tobias Gordon was dealing drugs .
Cars would pull up and drugs were exchanged .
She even started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matters . ''
He said the explosion caused £400,000-worth of damage and more than 200 butane gas bottles were later found at the flat .
Mr Whitehead also alleged that , after Stevenson was taken to hospital , he had told a nurse they had been `` extracting oil from cannabis '' and `` using butane gas . ''
Stevenson told police he had mainly been living at his mother 's home and had only been in the flat for ten minutes before the explosion , the court heard .
But Mr Whitehead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and had tried to distance himself from Mr Gordon .
Phillip Ryder , who had been living upstairs , told the court : `` There were three explosions .
The first was the loudest .
There was a gap .
I don ’ t know how many minutes .
The second one left a window hanging off .
`` I thought could it have been a bomb .
I was in shock .
`` All the appliances in the kitchen fell through , the fridge and everything .
”

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An alleged cannabis farmer caused his friend's death when a butane gas blast ripped through the site of the operation, a court was told.
Tobias Gordon died after suffering burns while Darren Stevenson survived, jurors at Birmingham Crown Court heard.
Stevenson, 32, of no fixed address, is on trial accused of manslaughter, reckless arson and producing cannabis.
It is claimed he was responsible for Mr Gordon's death because of his reckless actions.
Darron Whitehead, prosecuting, said Stevenson and Mr Gordon were growing the drug at flats in Aldersmead Road, West Heath in November 2014.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
He told the jury: "There was an explosion and a fire at a block of flats.
"You will understand how reckless these two mens' actions were.
"In this case the prosecution suggests Mr Gordon and this defendant were producing cannabis using butane gas and a cooker and a stove in a kitchen inside the defendant’s flat.
"This process caused an explosion, a fire flash and the building partly collapsed.
"In these particular circumstances, Stevenson would be guilty of manslaughter because he has participated in the unlawful act which has lead to the death of another person.
"It is not suggested the explosion was deliberate but it was not an accident either.
A resident who rushed to try to help recognised the defendant and Mr Gordon, said Mr Whitehead.
He went on: "She had seen these two men coming and going from the flat.
"It was common knowledge that Tobias Gordon was dealing drugs. Cars would pull up and drugs were exchanged. She even started to keep a log intending to report matters."
He said the explosion caused £400,000-worth of damage and more than 200 butane gas bottles were later found at the flat.
Mr Whitehead also alleged that, after Stevenson was taken to hospital, he had told a nurse they had been "extracting oil from cannabis" and "using butane gas."
Stevenson told police he had mainly been living at his mother's home and had only been in the flat for ten minutes before the explosion, the court heard.
But Mr Whitehead said he had given an untruthful account and had tried to distance himself from Mr Gordon.
Phillip Ryder, who had been living upstairs, told the court: "There were three explosions. The first was the loudest. There was a gap. I don’t know how many minutes. The second one left a window hanging off.
"I thought could it have been a bomb. I was in shock.
"All the appliances in the kitchen fell through, the fridge and everything.”
(Proceeding)


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Barclays branches in Birmingham shut down by Greenpeace climate protest

Over 95 local Barclays high street branches were shut down by Greenpeace activists this morning as part of a national protest against the bank ’ s continued multi-billion dollar support for fossil fuels .
Greenpeace are demanding that Barclays , the biggest funder of fossil fuels among European banks , stop propping up oil , gas and coal companies and channel funding into renewable energy .
In the early hours of the morning , Barclays branches on High Street , Frederick Street and Hagley Road were rendered out of action by Greenpeace activists who disabled the doors , preventing staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at over 95 sites in towns and cities across the UK .
At targeted branches , images of Barclays customers bearing slogans such as Stop Funding Fossil Fuels and Stop Funding the Climate Emergency were plastered on branch windows .
Pop up exhibitions , manoeuvred into place in the dead of night and staffed by Greenpeace activists , have blocked access to major branches of the bank in Belfast , Cardiff , Glasgow , London and Manchester .
The exhibitions displayed photographs of some of the worst climate emergency disasters in the four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signed .
Banks funding remains vital to fossil fuel companies .
Barclays is the biggest funder of fossil fuels amongst banks in Europe , backing polluters to the tune of $ 85 billion between 2016 and 2018 .
This included huge sums globally for some of the dirtiest fuels such as coal and tar sands and fracking companies .
The Bank has been under increasing pressure from investors to stop offering loans to fossil fuel companies , with Barclays expected to make a statement on the issue in the coming month .
Morten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK said : `` Barclays must stop funding the climate emergency , that ’ s why we ’ ve taken action in Birmingham and across the country today .
From floods/other climate impacts to bushfires across the globe and record heat in Antarctica , the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face .
Yet Barclays keeps pumping billions into fossil fuel companies at exactly the time we need to stop backing these polluting businesses .
`` Banks are just as responsible for the climate emergency as the fossil fuel companies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ escaped scrutiny for years .
We ’ ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on Barclays ’ role in bankrolling this emergency .
It ’ s time Barclays pulled the plug and backed away from funding fossil fuels for good . ''

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Over 95 local Barclays high street branches were shut down by Greenpeace activists this morning as part of a national protest against the bank’s continued multi-billion dollar support for fossil fuels.
Greenpeace are demanding that Barclays, the biggest funder of fossil fuels among European banks, stop propping up oil, gas and coal companies and channel funding into renewable energy.
In the early hours of the morning, Barclays branches on High Street, Frederick Street and Hagley Road were rendered out of action by Greenpeace activists who disabled the doors, preventing staff from entering.
Similar actions took place at over 95 sites in towns and cities across the UK. At targeted branches, images of Barclays customers bearing slogans such as Stop Funding Fossil Fuels and Stop Funding the Climate Emergency were plastered on branch windows.
Pop up exhibitions, manoeuvred into place in the dead of night and staffed by Greenpeace activists, have blocked access to major branches of the bank in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, London and Manchester.
The exhibitions displayed photographs of some of the worst climate emergency disasters in the four years since the Paris Climate agreement was signed.
Banks funding remains vital to fossil fuel companies. Barclays is the biggest funder of fossil fuels amongst banks in Europe, backing polluters to the tune of $85 billion between 2016 and 2018. This included huge sums globally for some of the dirtiest fuels such as coal and tar sands and fracking companies. The Bank has been under increasing pressure from investors to stop offering loans to fossil fuel companies, with Barclays expected to make a statement on the issue in the coming month.
Morten Thaysen, climate finance campaigner at Greenpeace UK said: "Barclays must stop funding the climate emergency, that’s why we’ve taken action in Birmingham and across the country today. From floods/other climate impacts to bushfires across the globe and record heat in Antarctica, the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face. Yet Barclays keeps pumping billions into fossil fuel companies at exactly the time we need to stop backing these polluting businesses.
"Banks are just as responsible for the climate emergency as the fossil fuel companies they fund, yet they’ve escaped scrutiny for years. We’ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on Barclays’ role in bankrolling this emergency. It’s time Barclays pulled the plug and backed away from funding fossil fuels for good."


birminghammail--2020-03-02--‘Very disappointing’ - Manager critical of incident involving Aston Villa loan star

Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill criticised the penalty incident involving James Chester which saw Luton Town snatch a late equaliser .
Chester joined Championship side Stoke on loan from Aston Villa in January and made a strong start to life at the Potters with a string of solid performances in the heart of defence .
But he was punished for a late challenge on Luton winger Callum McManaman on Saturday which cost Stoke a vital win at Kenilworth Road .
McManaman hit the deck under pressure from Chester and James Collins converted in added time to rescue a draw .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it clear he thought the decision was harsh .
“ It ’ s very disappointing to be in front and get to the 90th plus minute and the penalty 's soft to say the least , let 's be honest , ” he said .
“ But there 's nothing we can do about , it 's two points dropped , because of the position we 're in .
Equally , I suppose in the end , it 's important we were n't beaten as well , but it does n't feel like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I do n't think there was very much in it to give it at that moment in the game .
`` There 's contact between James Chester and I ’ m not sure who their player is with their upper body , he gets a toe to the ball , but there 's a lot of bodies there .
“ It 's an interesting one to give that late in the game to make that decision.
” Stoke are currently 21st in the table , just two points above the relegation zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chester is out of contract at Villa Park in the summer and is n't expected to be given a new deal .

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Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill criticised the penalty incident involving James Chester which saw Luton Town snatch a late equaliser.
Chester joined Championship side Stoke on loan from Aston Villa in January and made a strong start to life at the Potters with a string of solid performances in the heart of defence.
But he was punished for a late challenge on Luton winger Callum McManaman on Saturday which cost Stoke a vital win at Kenilworth Road.
McManaman hit the deck under pressure from Chester and James Collins converted in added time to rescue a draw. O’Neill, however, made it clear he thought the decision was harsh.
“It’s very disappointing to be in front and get to the 90th plus minute and the penalty's soft to say the least, let's be honest,” he said.
“But there's nothing we can do about, it's two points dropped, because of the position we're in. Equally, I suppose in the end, it's important we weren't beaten as well, but it doesn't feel like that at this minute in time.
“I don't think there was very much in it to give it at that moment in the game.
"There's contact between James Chester and I’m not sure who their player is with their upper body, he gets a toe to the ball, but there's a lot of bodies there.
“It's an interesting one to give that late in the game to make that decision.”
Stoke are currently 21st in the table, just two points above the relegation zone with 10 games to play.
31-year-old Chester is out of contract at Villa Park in the summer and isn't expected to be given a new deal.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Man charged with drink-driving after crash near Brierley Hill pub

A man has been charged with drink-driving after a three-car smash in Brierley Hill .
The crash happened near the Corn Exchange pub in Amblecote Road , Brierley Hill , on Sunday morning , March 1 .
Police were called to the scene just before 11.30am and told a Volkwagen Passat had hit a vehicle and caused it to shunt another .
Marius Pavalan was arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving .
He was later charged with the offence and driving without insurance and a licence .
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of High Street , Brierley Hill , is due to appear in court next month .
A West Midlands Police spokesman told Black Country Live : `` We received a 999 call from a man reporting being involved in a three-car collision in Amblecote Road , by the Corn Exchange in Brierley Hill , just before 11.30am on Sunday .
`` It ’ s understood a VW Passat hit a vehicle which in turn shunted another .
`` There were no serious injuries and no-one required hospital treatment .
`` A man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of drink-driving .
Marius Pavalan , aged 38 from High Street , Brierley Hill , was later charged with drink driving , driving without insurance and driving with no licence .
`` He ’ s due to appear at Dudley Magistrates ' Court on April 1 . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Regen, Kelly Ashmore)

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A man has been charged with drink-driving after a three-car smash in Brierley Hill.
The crash happened near the Corn Exchange pub in Amblecote Road, Brierley Hill, on Sunday morning, March 1.
Police were called to the scene just before 11.30am and told a Volkwagen Passat had hit a vehicle and caused it to shunt another.
Marius Pavalan was arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving. He was later charged with the offence and driving without insurance and a licence.
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To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join our dedicated Facebook group here.
The 38-year-old, of High Street, Brierley Hill, is due to appear in court next month.
A West Midlands Police spokesman told Black Country Live: "We received a 999 call from a man reporting being involved in a three-car collision in Amblecote Road, by the Corn Exchange in Brierley Hill, just before 11.30am on Sunday.
"It’s understood a VW Passat hit a vehicle which in turn shunted another.
"There were no serious injuries and no-one required hospital treatment.
"A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving. Marius Pavalan, aged 38 from High Street, Brierley Hill, was later charged with drink driving, driving without insurance and driving with no licence.
"He’s due to appear at Dudley Magistrates' Court on April 1."


birminghammail--2020-03-02--‘Sign him’ - Arsenal fans make Jack Grealish transfer demand after Gunners legend’s claim

Arsenal fans have made a Jack Grealish demand after club legend Robert Pires showered the Aston Villa midfielder with praise .
Pires described Grealish as a “ great footballer with a good technique ” ahead of Sunday ’ s Carabao Cup final – which Villa lost 2-1 to Manchester City – and likened him to former Gunners teammate Dennis Bergkamp .
`` I love watching him play because he reminds me of Dennis Bergkamp , ” Pires said .
`` I like to see him playing in the same position as Dennis , as a No.10 .
“ He has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a selfish player because he always wants to do what is best for the team , and I think he has a great future .
“ I don ’ t want to put too much pressure on Jack because he is still a young player learning the game and Dennis was an incredible talent and a champion .
“ But Grealish is a very complete player and I think the key for him is to keep playing like he enjoys his football . ''
The 24-year-old , who is under contract at Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Manchester United who have been impressed with his performances in the Premier League .
Pires claimed that he could also envisage Pep Guardiola trying to lure the midfielder to Man City .
“ City need to find a replacement for Silva next season – and I think Grealish is someone who Pep will look at .
He is English , he has good experience of the Premier League and he has a great technique .
“ But I think Grealish is a player who would interest a lot of top clubs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Arsenal fans want to see Grealish at the Emirates after Pires ’ comments were shared by Gunners supporters online .
One said : “ Sign him boss @ m8arteta @ JackGrealish ” .
“ @ JackGrealish come to @ Arsenal , ” said another .
A third demanded : “ Bring him to the carpet @ Arsenal @ m8arteta ” .

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Arsenal fans have made a Jack Grealish demand after club legend Robert Pires showered the Aston Villa midfielder with praise.
Pires described Grealish as a “great footballer with a good technique” ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final – which Villa lost 2-1 to Manchester City – and likened him to former Gunners teammate Dennis Bergkamp.
"I love watching him play because he reminds me of Dennis Bergkamp,” Pires said. "I like to see him playing in the same position as Dennis, as a No.10.
“He has great vision, he isn’t a selfish player because he always wants to do what is best for the team, and I think he has a great future.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on Jack because he is still a young player learning the game and Dennis was an incredible talent and a champion.
“But Grealish is a very complete player and I think the key for him is to keep playing like he enjoys his football."
The 24-year-old, who is under contract at Villa until 2023, is a summer target for Manchester United who have been impressed with his performances in the Premier League.
Pires claimed that he could also envisage Pep Guardiola trying to lure the midfielder to Man City.
“City need to find a replacement for Silva next season – and I think Grealish is someone who Pep will look at. He is English, he has good experience of the Premier League and he has a great technique.
“But I think Grealish is a player who would interest a lot of top clubs, like United, Chelsea and Arsenal.”
But Arsenal fans want to see Grealish at the Emirates after Pires’ comments were shared by Gunners supporters online.
One said: “Sign him boss @m8arteta @JackGrealish”.
“@JackGrealish come to @Arsenal,” said another.
A third demanded: “Bring him to the carpet @Arsenal @m8arteta”.
“A good replacement for Ozil!” said a fourth.


birminghammail--2020-03-02--Listen: BBC WM presenter Danny Kelly 'quits his show live on-air'

A Birmingham radio presenter once suspended for telling listeners the Queen had died appeared to quit his BBC show live on-air .
Mid-morning BBC WM host Danny Kelly made an announcement during his programme on Monday morning , March 2 .
He did not reveal any details but told his audience that life `` throws little curve balls every now and then '' .
He went on : `` This is the last time you are going to hear Danny Kelly on BBC WM . ''
The announcement appeared to come out-of-the-blue , with Kelly 's longtime producer , Kevin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ station said in a tweet that it would make an announcement at 9am on Tuesday , March 3 , when `` things will become clear '' .
Colourful Kelly , a 6ft 5ins former chef and car salesman who lives in Warwick , told his audience : `` I have an an announcement to make .
I do n't want you to well up or be in despair because this is life .
`` Life throws little curve balls every now and then does n't it .
You know how fond I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel that you made me so welcome .
But this is the last time you are going to hear Danny Kelly on BBC WM .
`` Tune in tomorrow from 9am and find out who is going to present the mid-morning show .
Thank you for all your calls , text messages and emails '' Pashby , who is currently on holiday tweeted : `` Hey all , I ’ m away on hols and don ’ t have great signal where I am .
Today 's announcement came as a complete surprise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve enjoyed working with Danny Kelly on @ bbcwm .
Hopefully when they make an announcement on air at 9am tomorrow morning , things will become clear.
`` BBC WM tweeted : `` Sorry for the lack of information at the moment .
We 're unable to comment further .
Hopefully when we make an announcement on air at 9am tomorrow morning , things will become clear .
We appreciate your patience . ''
BirminghamLive has contacted the BBC for a statement .
Kelly was taken off air temporarily back in 2010 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ important announcement to make before saying : `` Queen Elizabeth II has now died . ''
He was suspended for a week without pay .
It was believed the joke was a reference to a fan on the show 's Facebook page .
At the time a BBC spokesman said : `` Although made as part of a light-hearted piece about social media friends , and correct on-air immediately after it was made , the comment was entirely inappropriate and the BBC apologises unreservedly for it .
`` There was no intention to @ @ @

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A Birmingham radio presenter once suspended for telling listeners the Queen had died appeared to quit his BBC show live on-air.
Mid-morning BBC WM host Danny Kelly made an announcement during his programme on Monday morning, March 2.
He did not reveal any details but told his audience that life "throws little curve balls every now and then". He went on: "This is the last time you are going to hear Danny Kelly on BBC WM."
The announcement appeared to come out-of-the-blue, with Kelly's longtime producer, Kevin Pashby, expressing his surprise. The station said in a tweet that it would make an announcement at 9am on Tuesday, March 3, when "things will become clear".
Colourful Kelly, a 6ft 5ins former chef and car salesman who lives in Warwick, told his audience: "I have an an announcement to make. I don't want you to well up or be in despair because this is life.
"Life throws little curve balls every now and then doesn't it. You know how fond I am of the West Midlands and how I feel that you made me so welcome. But this is the last time you are going to hear Danny Kelly on BBC WM.
"Tune in tomorrow from 9am and find out who is going to present the mid-morning show. Thank you for all your calls, text messages and emails"
Listen: Danny Kelly quits his BBC WM show live on-air
Pashby, who is currently on holiday tweeted: "Hey all, I’m away on hols and don’t have great signal where I am. Today's announcement came as a complete surprise to me too.
"I’ve enjoyed working with Danny Kelly on @bbcwm. Hopefully when they make an announcement on air at 9am tomorrow morning, things will become clear. "
BBC WM tweeted: "Sorry for the lack of information at the moment. We're unable to comment further. Hopefully when we make an announcement on air at 9am tomorrow morning, things will become clear. We appreciate your patience."
BirminghamLive has contacted the BBC for a statement.
Kelly was taken off air temporarily back in 2010. He told his listeners he had an important announcement to make before saying: " Queen Elizabeth II has now died ."
He was suspended for a week without pay.
It was believed the joke was a reference to a fan on the show's Facebook page.
At the time a BBC spokesman said: "Although made as part of a light-hearted piece about social media friends, and correct
on-air immediately after it was made, the comment was entirely inappropriate and the BBC apologises unreservedly for it.
"There was no intention to offend."