themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Man United get fresh Jadon Sancho transfer update from Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund still expect Jadon Sancho to stay at the club next season despite his contract situation and intense interest from Manchester United .
Sancho , 20 , is about to enter the last two years of his deal and is believed to be intent on leaving the Bundesliga side rather than signing a renewal .
United are long-time admirers of Sancho , having tried to sign him from Manchester City in 2017 , and were unsuccessful in a move to buy the England international last year due to their failure to qualify for the Champions League .
Dortmund want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could lead to protracted negotiations with potential buyers in a post-COVID climate , and a United move for Sancho also heavily depends on whether they return to the Champions League .
`` We expect Jadon to play with BVB next season and we ’ re all very happy with the quality that he brings to our side and the difference that he can make , '' Dortmund 's former midfielder and current head of the licensed player division Sebastian Kehl told Sport Buzzer .
United sources have dismissed Dortmund 's confidence of retaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke admitted in March it was probable Sancho would be sold this summer .
The likelihood is Dortmund would look to fetch over £100million for Sancho , having sold Ousmane Dembele to Barcelona in 2017 for a staggering £135.5m .
Dortmund negotiated an overall fee of £135.5m for Dembele from Barca and received £96.8m up front .
Sancho has scored 20 goals in 43 games for Dortmund this term and would slot in on the right-hand side of a potential United front three with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ season since Sir Alex Ferguson retired or miss out on European Cup football for successive years for the first time since the early 90s .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted their summer budget is still uncertain amid the variables of their run-in .
`` I think the pandemic has hit everyone really hard , '' Solskjaer said on Friday .
`` I still think we need to wait and see how things are panning out to know the real effects of the pandemic , to know what kind of financial state we are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some teams don ’ t .
We ’ ll have to take a big look at things ourselves to see how hard we ’ ve been hit .
I know the club has announced a few numbers before .
`` It ’ s not for me to say we are going to have X amount because I don ’ t really know .
I don ’ t really know how hard we have been hit .
We are a financially strong club , but we are also probably being hit more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how quickly we can get our fans back into the stadium and of course the league position is going to be important for us this season . ''

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Borussia Dortmund still expect Jadon Sancho to stay at the club next season despite his contract situation and intense interest from Manchester United.
Sancho, 20, is about to enter the last two years of his deal and is believed to be intent on leaving the Bundesliga side rather than signing a renewal.
United are long-time admirers of Sancho, having tried to sign him from Manchester City in 2017, and were unsuccessful in a move to buy the England international last year due to their failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Dortmund want a nine-figure fee for Sancho, which could lead to protracted negotiations with potential buyers in a post-COVID climate, and a United move for Sancho also heavily depends on whether they return to the Champions League.
"We expect Jadon to play with BVB next season and we’re all very happy with the quality that he brings to our side and the difference that he can make," Dortmund's former midfielder and current head of the licensed player division Sebastian Kehl told Sport Buzzer.
United sources have dismissed Dortmund's confidence of retaining Sancho as brinkmanship since the club's chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke admitted in March it was probable Sancho would be sold this summer.
The likelihood is Dortmund would look to fetch over £100million for Sancho, having sold Ousmane Dembele to Barcelona in 2017 for a staggering £135.5m. Dortmund negotiated an overall fee of £135.5m for Dembele from Barca and received £96.8m up front.
Sancho has scored 20 goals in 43 games for Dortmund this term and would slot in on the right-hand side of a potential United front three with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
United could yet enjoy their most successful season since Sir Alex Ferguson retired or miss out on European Cup football for successive years for the first time since the early 90s. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted their summer budget is still uncertain amid the variables of their run-in.
"I think the pandemic has hit everyone really hard," Solskjaer said on Friday. "I still think we need to wait and see how things are panning out to know the real effects of the pandemic, to know what kind of financial state we are in.
"You see some teams invest, some teams don’t. We’ll have to take a big look at things ourselves to see how hard we’ve been hit. I know the club has announced a few numbers before.
"It’s not for me to say we are going to have X amount because I don’t really know. I don’t really know how hard we have been hit. We are a financially strong club, but we are also probably being hit more than anybody else. Let’s see how quickly we can get our fans back into the stadium and of course the league position is going to be important for us this season."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Man arrested after rape of teenage girl in a park in Oldham

A man has been arrested after a 15 year-old girl was raped in a park in Oldham .
A 19 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape on Friday , police said .
He was taken in for questioning before being later released on bail , with conditions .
It follows the reported rape of the teenager in Chadderton Hall Park at around 9pm last Sunday , June 21 .
Immediately following the incident police said a man had approached her and asked to use her phone before attacking her .
Part of the park was taped off whilst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alex Wilkinson , from GMP ’ s Oldham district , said : “ I ’ d firstly like to commend the bravery of the victim in this case , whom our specialist officers have been closely supporting and working with since the incident was first reported to us and continue to do so .
“ We have been provided with further information during the week which has led us to making an arrest but our enquiries are very much ongoing .
`` It is encouraging to know the community can be so responsive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – instances arise .
“ I am aware , however , that some rumours have been circulated on social media about the incident and I ask the public that they refrain from sharing those while this investigation remains active .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
A man has been arrested after a 15 year-old girl was raped in a park in Oldham.
A 19 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape on Friday, police said.
He was taken in for questioning before being later released on bail, with conditions.
It follows the reported rape of the teenager in Chadderton Hall Park at around 9pm last Sunday, June 21.
(Image: MEN MEDIA)
Immediately following the incident police said a man had approached her and asked to use her phone before attacking her.
Part of the park was taped off whilst officers carried out enquiries.
Detective Sergeant Alex Wilkinson, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “I’d firstly like to commend the bravery of the victim in this case, whom our specialist officers have been closely supporting and working with since the incident was first reported to us and continue to do so.
“We have been provided with further information during the week which has led us to making an arrest but our enquiries are very much ongoing.
"It is encouraging to know the community can be so responsive when these shocking – but thankfully rare – instances arise.
“I am aware, however, that some rumours have been circulated on social media about the incident and I ask the public that they refrain from sharing those while this investigation remains active.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Norwich vs Manchester United LIVE

Norwich vs Manchester United LIVE

Manchester United will resume their FA Cup campaign at Carrow Road this evening , as they face Norwich City at @ @ @ @ @ off ) .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's team have already overcome Wolves , Tranmere Rovers @ @ @ @ @ the quarter-final stage and will now look to secure a place in the last four @ @ @ @ @ Wembley are the Premier League 's bottom club in Daniel Farke 's Norwich , with @ @ @ @ @ from the team that beat Sheffield United 3-0 in midweek .
The manager hinted that @ @ @ @ @ .
Anthony Martial bagged a hat-trick at Old Trafford and could be among the stars @ @ @ @ @ , Fred , Scott McTominay and Daniel James all pressing for a start in East @ @ @ @ @ news will be released at 4.30pm , an hour before kick off .
Follow all @ @ @ @ @ Road on our live blog below .

The United captain spoke to the BBC after the game:
“We’ve got to find a way to get the victory and get through to the next round and we’ve managed it in the end. We made it hard work, we weren’t at our best tonight but we got the win.
“We had a tough game with the heat in the Premier League (against Sheffield United) but we made changes and we should’ve been fresh. I can’t really put my finger on it at the moment, we’ll have to watch it back and analyse it.
“We were a bit slow and we tried to go through the middle too often, especially when we were trying to break down the 10 men, we should have played wide a lot more and make them move.
“In the end we’ve got there and very please to get to a semi-final, that’s all that matters really. We wanted to win in 90 minutes for sure, an extra 30 minutes in the legs but we felt good out here. Rest and recover and then we’ve got a big game against Brighton and we’ve got to get three points.
“I’m always pleased when I chip in, to help the team and especially in the last minute of extra time. That’s my third this season and I want to get plenty more. It’s something I’m working on, I want to improve and take it into the rest of the season and the season after.
“I joined this club to win trophies so we’re in the semi-final of the FA Cup, it’s a great competition and we’ll look forward to it. Hopefully in the semi-final we can play a lot better than we did tonight.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Manchester Victoria's 166-year-old drainage system set for £1m upgrade

Diversions for motorists and pedestrians are set to be put in place outside Manchester Victoria as work starts to replace the railway station 's Victorian drainage system .
Network Rail said the £1million project would last until October .
The work will bring the drainage systems around the 166-year old station 'into the 21st century ' , they said .
As a result , a 'half road closure ' will be in place on Victoria Station Approach for a nine-week period .
Diversions for pedestrians and motorists are expected , but train services from Victoria will not be affected .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was designed to prevent flooding around the station .
Drainage systems in the basement of the station will be connected to the River Irk , which runs underneath .
Network Rail said the project would provide a more efficient way of draining the station building .
An estimated 8.9million passengers pass through Victoria every year .
The drainage system underneath the road in front of the station will be completely replaced , and drainpipes on the historic station façade cleaned and maintained .
The Department for Transport is investing the money .
Rail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester Victoria 's drainage system from the Victorian era into the 21st century will help give passengers the reliable services they deserve , reducing frustrating disruptions .
`` This is part of a wider £10 million rail investment to reduce the risk of flooding in the Manchester area , which will help protect the city and surrounding area from damage and delay . ''
Rory Kingdon , senior sponsor at Network Rail , said : `` It 's a testament to Victorian engineering that so much of the infrastructure our predecessors built is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time is right to bring the drainage systems at Manchester Victoria into the 21st century .
`` Carrying out this work now should mean less passengers are affected by any disruption around the station , and we ’ ll be ready to welcome back travellers to a warm and dry station when it ’ s safe to do so . ''
Chris Jackson , regional director at Northern , said : `` Manchester Victoria is a landmark station and a real link to the history of the railway in the north west .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for future generations , but also make it fit for purpose in modern Manchester .
`` The work being carried out by Network Rail will provide countless unseen improvements and deliver a new drainage system that will reduce the impact of extreme weather on our services .
`` There will be some disruption in and around the station as the work is completed , but our services will continue to operate , getting those customers who have essential journeys to make where they need to be . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Diversions for motorists and pedestrians are set to be put in place outside Manchester Victoria as work starts to replace the railway station's Victorian drainage system.
Network Rail said the £1million project would last until October.
Work starts on Sunday.
The work will bring the drainage systems around the 166-year old station 'into the 21st century', they said.
As a result, a 'half road closure' will be in place on Victoria Station Approach for a nine-week period.
Diversions for pedestrians and motorists are expected, but train services from Victoria will not be affected.
(Image: MEN Media)
Network Rail said the 'critical' work was designed to prevent flooding around the station.
Drainage systems in the basement of the station will be connected to the River Irk, which runs underneath.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
Network Rail said the project would provide a more efficient way of draining the station building.
An estimated 8.9million passengers pass through Victoria every year.
The drainage system underneath the road in front of the station will be completely replaced, and drainpipes on the historic station façade cleaned and maintained.
(Image: Getty Images)
The Department for Transport is investing the money.
Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: "Bringing Manchester Victoria's drainage system from the Victorian era into the 21st century will help give passengers the reliable services they deserve, reducing frustrating disruptions.
"This is part of a wider £10 million rail investment to reduce the risk of flooding in the Manchester area, which will help protect the city and surrounding area from damage and delay."
Rory Kingdon, senior sponsor at Network Rail, said: "It's a testament to Victorian engineering that so much of the infrastructure our predecessors built is still surviving and thriving, but the time is right to bring the drainage systems at Manchester Victoria into the 21st century.
"Carrying out this work now should mean less passengers are affected by any disruption around the station, and we’ll be ready to welcome back travellers to a warm and dry station when it’s safe to do so."
Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern, said: "Manchester Victoria is a landmark station and a real link to the history of the railway in the north west.
"We want to preserve that history for future generations, but also make it fit for purpose in modern Manchester.
"The work being carried out by Network Rail will provide countless unseen improvements and deliver a new drainage system that will reduce the impact of extreme weather on our services.
"There will be some disruption in and around the station as the work is completed, but our services will continue to operate, getting those customers who have essential journeys to make where they need to be."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Pundits predict Norwich vs Manchester United FA Cup quarter final

Games are coming thick and fast with Manchester United back in action this evening against Norwich in the FA Cup .
United have defeated Wolves , Tranmere Rovers and Derby County on their way to the quarter-finals .
On the other hand , Norwich have knocked out Preston , Burnley and Tottenham .
A place at Wembley is on offer for the winners with the draw for the semi-final set to take place on Sunday during Newcastle 's clash against Manchester City .
There are no replays at this stage of the competition so if the score is level at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be extra time and penalties .
Here is how the pundits think the game will go .
`` The hosts booked their place in the quarter-final after an enthralling penalty shootout against Tottenham , while Manchester United coasted to a 3-0 win over Derby County at Pride Park .
`` Manchester United have won both meetings between the sides in the Premier League this season by an aggregate score of 7-1 but Norwich do have the advantage in FA Cup meetings with three wins to Manchester United ’ s two .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with so much pace in the Manchester United side , I can only see a comfortable win for Manchester United which will see them progress to the semi-finals . ''
`` Norwich have lost both their league games at home since the restart without looking like scoring , and things seem pretty bleak for them at the bottom of the table .
I ca n't see them staying up .
`` The Canaries knew at the start of the season that they were gambling when they chose not to spend big on new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way it is has failed because they are not going to stay in the Premier League , but at least their finances will be in a better place when they do get relegated .
`` In a way , this is a free hit for them , and a chance to forget about that side of things - but this is a bad time for anyone to be playing United because they are flying . ''

Games are coming thick and fast with Manchester United back in action this evening against Norwich in the FA Cup.
United have defeated Wolves, Tranmere Rovers and Derby County on their way to the quarter-finals. On the other hand, Norwich have knocked out Preston, Burnley and Tottenham.
A place at Wembley is on offer for the winners with the draw for the semi-final set to take place on Sunday during Newcastle's clash against Manchester City.
There are no replays at this stage of the competition so if the score is level at Carrow Road after 90 minutes, there will be extra time and penalties.
Here is how the pundits think the game will go.
Michael Owen, BetVictor
"The hosts booked their place in the quarter-final after an enthralling penalty shootout against Tottenham, while Manchester United coasted to a 3-0 win over Derby County at Pride Park.
"Manchester United have won both meetings between the sides in the Premier League this season by an aggregate score of 7-1 but Norwich do have the advantage in FA Cup meetings with three wins to Manchester United’s two.
"Norwich look vulnerable at the back and with so much pace in the Manchester United side, I can only see a comfortable win for Manchester United which will see them progress to the semi-finals."
Mark Lawrenson, BBC
"Norwich have lost both their league games at home since the restart without looking like scoring, and things seem pretty bleak for them at the bottom of the table. I can't see them staying up.
"The Canaries knew at the start of the season that they were gambling when they chose not to spend big on new players after getting promoted. In a way it is has failed because they are not going to stay in the Premier League, but at least their finances will be in a better place when they do get relegated.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
"In a way, this is a free hit for them, and a chance to forget about that side of things - but this is a bad time for anyone to be playing United because they are flying."
Prediction: Norwich 0-2 Manchester United


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Courtney Act on gender identity, equality and starting her tour in Manchester

It 's been over two years since Courtney Act was crowned the winner of Celebrity Big Brother , exposing her to a whole new British audience .
The Australian star first gained recognition in her home country in 2003 when she appeared on Australian Idol , before finding further fame in 2014 , when she was a runner-up on RuPaul ’ s Drag Race .
The television personality and drag artist is now gearing up for a triumphant celebration of gender and sexuality in a new UK tour , which will start in Manchester in April next year .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it ’ s not at all about body fluids , ” Courtney , 38 , told the M.E.N from her London home .
`` I promise there will be no spit or unsavoury bodily fluids involved .
“ It ’ s more about my journey with the fluidity of my gender and sexuality and coming to understand the concept that fluidity is applicable to all areas of our lives .
“ I recognised that the human experience is fluid and I used that to write the whole show .
`` It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ original costumes , and a live band - it ’ s genuinely my favorite thing I ’ ve ever done.
” When asked if it was a conscious decision to open the tour in Manchester , Courtney , 38 , admitted it was purely down to the schedule but said the city was close to her heart .
“ I love Manchester .
Retrospectively , Manchester is literally the perfect city to open in , ” she said .
“ Manchester is a nice warm hug from someone who ’ s had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s not as intimidating as opening in London.
” Read more of today 's stories here Just before the pandemic hit the country , Courtney was in Los Angeles , but was able to get back to London before lockdown measures were put in place .
The pandemic has meant that drag artists around the world have had to adapt to new ways of performing .
“ Nightlife and hospitality has been hugely affected by the pandemic and it still will for quite a while , ” Courtney said .
“ For drag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of drag shows happening virtually in order to raise money for queens that have been left out of pocket and I just love that sense of community .
“ That ’ s one of the cool things about drag - it ’ s always been about adapting to the constraints of what you ’ ve got .
“ Drag queens are used to making the most out of a situation .
We ’ ve all performed in a pub with a bad sound system and a dressing room that doubles up as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ M.E.N that she ’ s been spending the time learning to play the Ukulele and sorting out her drag room , which is full of hundreds of costumes , wigs , and accessories .
Earlier this week , Courtney appeared in Neighbours , airing on Channel 5 , an experience which she said was ‘ so much fun ’ .
“ I always wanted to be on Neighbours growing up , ” she admitted .
“ But I never imagined when I was younger that I ’ d be on the show as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I ’ d totally be up for returning to Ramsay Street if they asked me , that would be fabulous.
” In the last couple of years , RuPaul ’ s Drag Race spin-offs have started airing across the world including versions in the UK , Thailand and Canada , where it will be co-hosted by former contestant Brook Lynn Hytes .
While she says she wouldn ’ t return as a contestant on the show , Courtney said she would be interested in appearing in an Australian version if one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talk of an Australian version of the show when ITV Australia bought the rights , but then I heard it never happened because of budgets and business talk , '' she said .
“ But i ’ d totally be up for hosting an Australian Drag Race if it ever happened .
That would be epic !
“ It doesn ’ t even have to be Drag Race though , I ’ d love to do something celebrating drag in Australia and New Zealand .
“ Priscilla Queen of the Desert is part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been celebrated in Australian culture all the way since the 1970s .
`` There 's an Australian showgirl called Carlotta , who is both a drag performer and trans woman .
She was the first ever trans person to play a trans role in a scripted drama anywhere in the world .
“ Australia is definitely ready for a fabulous celebration of drag !
” When asked about the fact that many transgender , non-binary and black performers are underrepresented at LGBT+ venues across the world , Courtney said she hoped the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to step back and reset .
“ This could really be used as an opportunity to do better , ” she said .
`` Let 's think like okay , the pandemic has hit , let 's take a minute and come back and change things .
“ People need to be aware of those unconscious biases that exist in relation to race , gender and sexuality .
“ Quite often the power in the queer scene comes from white gay men , mirroring the outside world of straight white men .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of empathy .
You would think someone who ’ s experienced oppression would be able to understand that better than any other.
” Courtney , who identifies as pansexual , hopes her forthcoming show will open minds .
“ Being pansexual means I ’ m attracted to people irrespective of their gender .
“ In the show , I have a fun pop banger called Heteroflexible that opens up act two and it ’ s about being comfortable with exploring sexuality .
“ I , as Courtney , will often get the attention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t know what that means .
They ’ ll be adamant that they ’ re not gay and , to me , that ’ s an implication there that there ’ s something wrong with being gay .
“ If I meet someone who I ’ m attracted to and they ’ re attracted to me , I ’ m going to explore what feels right to me .
Courtney Act will bring Fluid to Manchester 's Bridgewater Hall on April 6 , before shows across the country including Glasgow , Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on general sale Monday at 9am here .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
The weekly email brings you all the latest news from the LGBTQ+ community plus exclusive interviews direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
The weekly email brings you all the latest news from the LGBTQ+ community plus exclusive interviews direct to your inbox
It's been over two years since Courtney Act was crowned the winner of Celebrity Big Brother, exposing her to a whole new British audience.
The Australian star first gained recognition in her home country in 2003 when she appeared on Australian Idol, before finding further fame in 2014, when she was a runner-up on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The television personality and drag artist is now gearing up for a triumphant celebration of gender and sexuality in a new UK tour, which will start in Manchester in April next year.
“The name of the tour is Fluid but it’s not at all about body fluids,” Courtney, 38, told the M.E.N from her London home.
"I promise there will be no spit or unsavoury bodily fluids involved.
“It’s more about my journey with the fluidity of my gender and sexuality and coming to understand the concept that fluidity is applicable to all areas of our lives.
“I recognised that the human experience is fluid and I used that to write the whole show.
"It’s got stories, original music, original costumes, and a live band - it’s genuinely my favorite thing I’ve ever done.”
(Image: Clare Hawley)
When asked if it was a conscious decision to open the tour in Manchester, Courtney, 38, admitted it was purely down to the schedule but said the city was close to her heart.
“I love Manchester. Retrospectively, Manchester is literally the perfect city to open in,” she said.
“Manchester is a nice warm hug from someone who’s had a couple of drinks, so it’s not as intimidating as opening in London.”
Just before the pandemic hit the country, Courtney was in Los Angeles, but was able to get back to London before lockdown measures were put in place.
The pandemic has meant that drag artists around the world have had to adapt to new ways of performing.
“Nightlife and hospitality has been hugely affected by the pandemic and it still will for quite a while,” Courtney said.
“For drag artists, there’s been a lot of drag shows happening virtually in order to raise money for queens that have been left out of pocket and I just love that sense of community.
“That’s one of the cool things about drag - it’s always been about adapting to the constraints of what you’ve got.
“Drag queens are used to making the most out of a situation. We’ve all performed in a pub with a bad sound system and a dressing room that doubles up as a disabled toilet.”
(Image: Ian West/PA Wire)
Courtney told the M.E.N that she’s been spending the time learning to play the Ukulele and sorting out her drag room, which is full of hundreds of costumes, wigs, and accessories.
Earlier this week, Courtney appeared in Neighbours, airing on Channel 5, an experience which she said was ‘so much fun’.
“I always wanted to be on Neighbours growing up,” she admitted.
“But I never imagined when I was younger that I’d be on the show as myself both in and out of drag.
“I’d totally be up for returning to Ramsay Street if they asked me, that would be fabulous.”
In the last couple of years, RuPaul’s Drag Race spin-offs have started airing across the world including versions in the UK, Thailand and Canada, where it will be co-hosted by former contestant Brook Lynn Hytes.
While she says she wouldn’t return as a contestant on the show, Courtney said she would be interested in appearing in an Australian version if one were made.
“There had been talk of an Australian version of the show when ITV Australia bought the rights, but then I heard it never happened because of budgets and business talk," she said.
“But i’d totally be up for hosting an Australian Drag Race if it ever happened. That would be epic!
“It doesn’t even have to be Drag Race though, I’d love to do something celebrating drag in Australia and New Zealand.
“Priscilla Queen of the Desert is part of our national identity and drag has been celebrated in Australian culture all the way since the 1970s.
"There's an Australian showgirl called Carlotta, who is both a drag performer and trans woman. She was the first ever trans person to play a trans role in a scripted drama anywhere in the world.
“Australia is definitely ready for a fabulous celebration of drag!”
When asked about the fact that many transgender, non-binary and black performers are underrepresented at LGBT+ venues across the world, Courtney said she hoped the pandemic would be a chance for the industry to step back and reset.
(Image: Clare Hawley)
“This could really be used as an opportunity to do better,” she said.
"Let's think like okay, the pandemic has hit, let's take a minute and come back and change things.
“People need to be aware of those unconscious biases that exist in relation to race, gender and sexuality.
“Quite often the power in the queer scene comes from white gay men, mirroring the outside world of straight white men.
“There sometimes seems to be a lack of empathy. You would think someone who’s experienced oppression would be able to understand that better than any other.”
Courtney, who identifies as pansexual, hopes her forthcoming show will open minds.
“Being pansexual means I’m attracted to people irrespective of their gender.
“In the show, I have a fun pop banger called Heteroflexible that opens up act two and it’s about being comfortable with exploring sexuality.
“I, as Courtney, will often get the attention from straight identifying guys and they won’t know what that means. They’ll be adamant that they’re not gay and, to me, that’s an implication there that there’s something wrong with being gay.
“If I meet someone who I’m attracted to and they’re attracted to me, I’m going to explore what feels right to me.
“Dive in, the water’s fine!"
Courtney Act will bring Fluid to Manchester's Bridgewater Hall on April 6, before shows across the country including Glasgow, Birmingham, Liverpool and London.
Tickets go on general sale Monday at 9am here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Vikshay struggled with lockdown but he had a brilliant idea to turn things round

During the height of lockdown , Vikshay Ronald was feeling alone and depressed in his flat in Manchester city centre .
It was mid-May and the 22-year-old , from India , was furloughed from his job at Spareroom.com .
He had finished lectures for his postgraduate course in Innovation Management at University of Manchester .
His family were thousands of miles away , his student friends had returned home , and he was living alone with nothing to do .
`` I 'd got really depressed , '' Vikshay said .
`` I sat in bed all day - I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't speak to anyone , I just went offline completely and stopped using my phone and other social media .
`` I was furloughed for two months and had nothing to do .
It was our dissertation period .
I 'd not really got any flatmates or friends I could hang out with .
It got really hard .
I had nothing to keep me occupied .
My parents back home got worried about my wellbeing .
`` For the first time in my life I felt like I needed help from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had lived in Manchester for a year , decided he needed to find something to do .
`` I decided I had to figure something out for myself .
One thing I found a great passion for is cooking .
When I made people meals I always had positive feedback .
I ended up having a great time doing something I loved doing . ''
Vikshay , from the Bangalore region , decided to set up a business called Chef Vik 's Home Kitchen - cooking and selling Indian meals to fellow students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international students in Manchester who wanted to go back home but they could n't .
I literally just created a menu on my own .
None of the dishes were over £5 . ''
Vikshay , who cooked wearing PPE , posted about his new business on a Facebook page based in Fallowfield .
`` People just started loving the idea .
I was overwhelmed by the response .
People just started telling their friends and flatmates .
It was really heartwarming . ''
In his first week he had 22 orders .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dishes - butter chicken , chicken tikka , Chili chicken , paneer butter masala , rice and roti bread - to homes in Fallowfield and the city centre .
`` The best part of it was that I only knew two people who ordered from me .
it was mostly strangers .
For them to trust me , it really meant a lot .
`` It came to some good use .
I thought 'this is a bonus , everything I 'm making out of this ' .
It kept me really busy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little tiring .
`` I was cooking for the whole day . ''
Vikshay said he did n't really need the extra money he was making as he was receiving an income through the furlough scheme .
He has since come off furlough , and decided to donate the £450 he had made to the Black Lives Matter cause .
`` It just felt like it was the right thing to do .
If I can put a smile on another person 's face , then it turns my frown upside down , @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
During the height of lockdown, Vikshay Ronald was feeling alone and depressed in his flat in Manchester city centre.
It was mid-May and the 22-year-old, from India, was furloughed from his job at Spareroom.com.
He had finished lectures for his postgraduate course in Innovation Management at University of Manchester.
His family were thousands of miles away, his student friends had returned home, and he was living alone with nothing to do.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
"I'd got really depressed," Vikshay said. "I sat in bed all day - I had whole days in bed. I didn't speak to anyone, I just went offline completely and stopped using my phone and other social media.
"I was furloughed for two months and had nothing to do. It was our dissertation period. I'd not really got any flatmates or friends I could hang out with. It got really hard. I had nothing to keep me occupied. My parents back home got worried about my wellbeing.
"For the first time in my life I felt like I needed help from a therapist."
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
Vikshay, who had lived in Manchester for a year, decided he needed to find something to do.
"I decided I had to figure something out for myself. One thing I found a great passion for is cooking. When I made people meals I always had positive feedback. I ended up having a great time doing something I loved doing."
Vikshay, from the Bangalore region, decided to set up a business called Chef Vik's Home Kitchen - cooking and selling Indian meals to fellow students.
"There are a lot of international students in Manchester who wanted to go back home but they couldn't. I literally just created a menu on my own. None of the dishes were over £5."
Vikshay, who cooked wearing PPE, posted about his new business on a Facebook page based in Fallowfield.
"People just started loving the idea. I was overwhelmed by the response. People just started telling their friends and flatmates. It was really heartwarming."
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
In his first week he had 22 orders. He would cook the food then deliver dishes - butter chicken, chicken tikka, Chili chicken, paneer butter masala, rice and roti bread - to homes in Fallowfield and the city centre.
"The best part of it was that I only knew two people who ordered from me. it was mostly strangers. For them to trust me, it really meant a lot.
"It came to some good use. I thought 'this is a bonus, everything I'm making out of this'. It kept me really busy, it was quite hectic, a little tiring.
"I was cooking for the whole day."
Vikshay said he didn't really need the extra money he was making as he was receiving an income through the furlough scheme.
He has since come off furlough, and decided to donate the £450 he had made to the Black Lives Matter cause.
"It just felt like it was the right thing to do. If I can put a smile on another person's face, then it turns my frown upside down," he said.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Liverpool Mayor 'in tears' over celebrations condemned by Liverpool FC

Liverpool fans have faced huge backlash after several thousand gathered in the city last night at the Pier Head to celebrate their Premier League win .
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson has said he was 'in tears ' watching the footage of the violent scenes that unfolded , while Liverpool FC have condemned the behaviour as 'wholly unacceptable . '
Merseyside Police had to issue a section 34 dispersal order in the city centre on Friday night , which allowed officers to break up groups of more than two people .
Videos circulating on social media showed a firework hitting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to catch fire .
Four fire engines were sent , where they extinguished a blaze on a balcony , but the extent of the damage is not yet known .
Several people are also said to have been injured in the second night of revelry after Liverpool were confirmed as league champions for the first time in 30 years on Thursday .
Speaking the the Liverpool ECHO this morning , Mayor Anderson said he is devastated that the actions of some fans have undermined what should be a brilliant moment for the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been quite emotional , I was in tears at one point watching some of those scenes .
`` I spent a lot of yesterday talking about what an incredible achievement this was for Liverpool FC and what it means for the city .
`` And the vast majority of fans did the right thing and celebrated at home - but sadly this has been undermined by the actions of some .
`` We wanted to tell everyone the story of what Liverpool FC has achieved - but sadly we have woken up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm , just exhausted by it to be honest . ''
Mr Anderson has shared several videos to his Twitter account , including one which shows the aftermath this morning , to which he put : `` No words needed really . ''
A joint statement on behalf of Liverpool FC , Liverpool City Council , and Merseyside Police was issued on Saturday .
It said : “ Several thousand people turned up at the Pier Head on Friday June 26 and some chose to ignore the social distancing guidance and risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still in a public health crisis and this behaviour is wholly unacceptable .
“ The potential danger of a second peak of Covid-19 still exists and we need to work together to make sure we don ’ t undo everything that has been achieved as a region during lockdown .
“ When it is safe to do so , we will all work together to arrange a victory parade when everyone can come together to celebrate .
“ Until that time , the safety of our city and our people continues to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman was unable to confirm that bottles had been thrown or the number of people arrested , but said there had been “ significant disorder ” overnight .
The area has been left littered with discarded bottles and rubbish and council street cleaners are now on site .
It follows supporters packing into the area around Anfield Stadium on Thursday night when Liverpool claimed the title as the final whistle blew in the match between Chelsea and Manchester City .
Merseyside Police anticipated people coming together to mark Liverpool becoming champions of England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Friday night , but had warned fans to wait for official celebrations .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Liverpool fans have faced huge backlash after several thousand gathered in the city last night at the Pier Head to celebrate their Premier League win.
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson has said he was 'in tears' watching the footage of the violent scenes that unfolded, while Liverpool FC have condemned the behaviour as 'wholly unacceptable.'
Merseyside Police had to issue a section 34 dispersal order in the city centre on Friday night, which allowed officers to break up groups of more than two people.
Videos circulating on social media showed a firework hitting the Liver Building, causing part of it to catch fire. Four fire engines were sent, where they extinguished a blaze on a balcony, but the extent of the damage is not yet known.
(Image: PA)
Several people are also said to have been injured in the second night of revelry after Liverpool were confirmed as league champions for the first time in 30 years on Thursday.
Speaking the the Liverpool ECHO this morning, Mayor Anderson said he is devastated that the actions of some fans have undermined what should be a brilliant moment for the city.
He said: "I actually have been quite emotional, I was in tears at one point watching some of those scenes.
"I spent a lot of yesterday talking about what an incredible achievement this was for Liverpool FC and what it means for the city.
"And the vast majority of fans did the right thing and celebrated at home - but sadly this has been undermined by the actions of some.
"We wanted to tell everyone the story of what Liverpool FC has achieved - but sadly we have woken up to negative headlines about the city, I'm, just exhausted by it to be honest."
Mr Anderson has shared several videos to his Twitter account, including one which shows the aftermath this morning, to which he put: "No words needed really."
A joint statement on behalf of Liverpool FC, Liverpool City Council, and Merseyside Police was issued on Saturday.
It said: “Several thousand people turned up at the Pier Head on Friday June 26 and some chose to ignore the social distancing guidance and risk public safety.
“Our city is still in a public health crisis and this behaviour is wholly unacceptable.
“The potential danger of a second peak of Covid-19 still exists and we need to work together to make sure we don’t undo everything that has been achieved as a region during lockdown.
“When it is safe to do so, we will all work together to arrange a victory parade when everyone can come together to celebrate.
“Until that time, the safety of our city and our people continues to be our number one priority.”
(Image: PA)
A police spokesman was unable to confirm that bottles had been thrown or the number of people arrested, but said there had been “significant disorder” overnight.
The area has been left littered with discarded bottles and rubbish and council street cleaners are now on site.
It follows supporters packing into the area around Anfield Stadium on Thursday night when Liverpool claimed the title as the final whistle blew in the match between Chelsea and Manchester City.
Merseyside Police anticipated people coming together to mark Liverpool becoming champions of England for the first time since 1990 again on Friday night, but had warned fans to wait for official celebrations.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Teenager pulled a knife on a petrol station worker and threatened to 'shank' him

A teenager who pulled a kitchen knife on a petrol station worker and threatened to 'shank ' him has been spared jail .
Donte Paton , 19 , was also found with a big stash of cannabis and cocaine at his house when he was arrested .
However a judge allowed the `` immature '' and `` vulnerable '' teen to walk free saying he was giving him a chance to `` not wreck his life at such an early stage . ''
Trouble erupted at the Shell garage on Barlow Moor Road in Chorlton at around 8:45pm on November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paton , who had just turned 18 at the time , came inside the petrol station shop with four others .
The staff said they were `` keeping an eye on them '' to make sure nothing was stolen Gavin Howie prosecuting said .
However they seemed to take exception to this and an argument erupted .
The cashier 's colleague came to his assistance and asked Paton to leave but he said he was going nowhere and threatened to `` smash his face in '' Mr Howie said .
He also used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to `` go back to his own country . ''
The victim picked up a handrail or metal bar from behind the bar in order to defend himself .
Paton then smashed a bottle of wine on the floor .
After the group had left the shop , Paton walked back in alone and produced a kitchen knife which he `` pointed towards '' the staff member and threatened to `` shank '' him which is slang for stabbing someone the court was told .
As the group ran off shortly afterwards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Howie said .
Paton was eventually arrested around three months later after being recognised from the CCTV .
At his home 11 snap bags of cannabis and six snap bags of cocaine worth around £300 were found along with scales and four phones .
However no evidence of dealing was found on these and the prosecution accepted these were for his personal use , for which the judge said he was `` very lucky . ''
Paton , of Monmouth Street , Middleton , pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possession of a bladed article and possession of class A and class B drugs at Manchester Crown Court on Friday afternoon .
`` He was in a bad place at the time but things have improved '' John Kennerley , defending , said .
Judge Richard Mansell QC said : `` These offences were committed 18 months ago which in the life of a young man like you is a significant period of time indeed .
`` But you carried a knife , produced it , and threatened someone with it in what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It undoubtedly caused the staff serious alarm and distress .
`` You were the oldest member of the gang and were the lead offender . ''
He said what was found at his home was `` by anyone 's view this was a significant stash of drugs '' and suggested he had a problem with drugs that needed to be addressed .
Paton has a previous conviction for a racially aggravated public order offence after telling an officer dealing with him during a previous incident she was a `` white privilege @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I get it , you are a young man from the BAME community who has likely been subjected to racism during your life and I believe you were angry about that .
`` However it is utterly hypocritical to complain about racism and then racially abuse someone else from the same community , albeit a different race . ''
He spared Paton custody and sentenced him to an 18 month community order with 150 hours unpaid work , as well as being ordered to carry out 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mansell said : `` If I was to send you to a young offenders institution I think your prospects would have been seriously harmed .
You are in my opinion a vulnerable young man with mental health problems .
`` If there is any chance to save a young man from wrecking his life at such an early stage I am going to take it . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss out on the big stories from Manchester's courts with our weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss out on the big stories from Manchester's courts with our weekly newsletter
A teenager who pulled a kitchen knife on a petrol station worker and threatened to 'shank' him has been spared jail.
Donte Paton, 19, was also found with a big stash of cannabis and cocaine at his house when he was arrested.
However a judge allowed the "immature" and "vulnerable" teen to walk free saying he was giving him a chance to "not wreck his life at such an early stage."
Trouble erupted at the Shell garage on Barlow Moor Road in Chorlton at around 8:45pm on November 6, 2018 a court heard.
Paton, who had just turned 18 at the time, came inside the petrol station shop with four others.
The staff said they were "keeping an eye on them" to make sure nothing was stolen Gavin Howie prosecuting said.
(Image: Google Maps)
However they seemed to take exception to this and an argument erupted.
The cashier's colleague came to his assistance and asked Paton to leave but he said he was going nowhere and threatened to "smash his face in" Mr Howie said.
He also used a racial slur against him and told him to "go back to his own country."
The victim picked up a handrail or metal bar from behind the bar in order to defend himself.
Paton then smashed a bottle of wine on the floor.
After the group had left the shop, Paton walked back in alone and produced a kitchen knife which he "pointed towards" the staff member and threatened to "shank" him which is slang for stabbing someone the court was told.
As the group ran off shortly afterwards Paton was "seen to discard something" Mr Howie said.
(Image: MEN Media)
Police officers arrived and recovered a "small kitchen knife" from a grassy area nearby.
Paton was eventually arrested around three months later after being recognised from the CCTV.
At his home 11 snap bags of cannabis and six snap bags of cocaine worth around £300 were found along with scales and four phones.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
However no evidence of dealing was found on these and the prosecution accepted these were for his personal use, for which the judge said he was "very lucky."
Paton, of Monmouth Street, Middleton, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour – provoking a fear of violence, possession of a bladed article and possession of class A and class B drugs at Manchester Crown Court on Friday afternoon.
"He was in a bad place at the time but things have improved" John Kennerley, defending, said.
Judge Richard Mansell QC said: "These offences were committed 18 months ago which in the life of a young man like you is a significant period of time indeed.
"But you carried a knife, produced it, and threatened someone with it in what was an ugly scene of public disorder.
"It undoubtedly caused the staff serious alarm and distress.
"You were the oldest member of the gang and were the lead offender."
He said what was found at his home was "by anyone's view this was a significant stash of drugs" and suggested he had a problem with drugs that needed to be addressed.
Paton has a previous conviction for a racially aggravated public order offence after telling an officer dealing with him during a previous incident she was a "white privilege police woman."
Judge Mansell said: "I get it, you are a young man from the BAME community who has likely been subjected to racism during your life and I believe you were angry about that.
"However it is utterly hypocritical to complain about racism and then racially abuse someone else from the same community, albeit a different race."
He spared Paton custody and sentenced him to an 18 month community order with 150 hours unpaid work, as well as being ordered to carry out 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a thinking skills course.
Judge Mansell said: "If I was to send you to a young offenders institution I think your prospects would have been seriously harmed. You are in my opinion a vulnerable young man with mental health problems.
"If there is any chance to save a young man from wrecking his life at such an early stage I am going to take it."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Your Man City questions answered - transfers, Guardiola and the CAS appeal

There 's a lot happening at Manchester City right now , both on and off the pitch .
Following Thursday night 's defeat at Chelsea , our City correspondent Stuart Brennan held a Q & A webchat and answered questions from Blues across the world , touching on the current team , transfers , Leroy Sane and what Pep 's plans for the future might be .
What do you think the Premier League top four will look like next season , with City and Liverpool challenging again , and possible improvements made by Chelsea , United , Spurs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mix ?
I reckon City and Liverpool are still some way ahead of the others , and if the Blues strengthen key areas in the next window , I can only see those two for the title .
Liverpool 's reaction is important , but United are clearly improving rapidly , and Chelsea will be a lot stronger but beyond those four I do n't see any challengers .
Do you think that Pep will be planning to strengthen any specific areas this summer ?
And are there any squad members who might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the next few weeks ?
A new centre back is an absolute must .
We saw it again at Chelsea when , even with the first choice pair of Fernandinho and Laporte , City were vulnerable to the counter .
They lack pace in that central area , with only Laporte having any kind of acceleration - Ferna has never been quick , Garcia is slow , Otamendi is slower , and then Rodri and Gundgan are both slouches .
It is a big weakness .
Also , Mendy has also cast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and with Cancelo going , a new right back is another necessity , not to mention a deputy goalkeeper as Bravo is set to go .
When will Pep stop making experiments like playing without a striker during big games ?
And when are we buying another LB and CB ?
Pep will NEVER stop doing that .
When it comes off , which is more often than not , he is hailed as a genius .
When it does n't , like last night , it looks bad .
But Jesus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough for the bench , so with Aguero out , there was little choice but to innovate last night .
CB will be top of the list , LB will depend on Mendy 's response .
Where do you think it all went wrong for City this season Stuart ?
Pep mentioned a lack of desire , do you think after all the success the past 2 seasons there might have been a bit of complacency in the squad this season ?
Pep did say that he felt his team had lost a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in spades .
It is incredibly hard to pick it up for a third time after two incredible seasons and in most other seasons , City would still be fighting for the title .
But there are structural reasons too - failure to replace Kompany , Otamendi staying a year too long - all defensive problems .
What do you think about Foden ’ s willingness to stay at the club instead of go on a loan where he would ’ ve had more playing time and worked hard to break in to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foden was ever given the choice !
Pep always made it plain that he felt the best development he could have would be to work every day with players like KDB , David Silva and Bernardo .
That has proved to be the right call - he is blossoming nicely .
Regarding recruitment for next season - do you feel we must improve in our business dealings - 60m plus for both Rhodri and Cancelo is looking rather poor value at the moment .
Added to which should CAS decision leave us with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you confident we will not hold out for big fee 's for want away start seeking CL glory - who obviously cant cut it consistently at PL level .
To be fair , Rodri has been good in my opinion , especially in his first PL season in a pivotal role , and I think he will get better .
Cancelo 's problem seems to be his attitude , and his deal was only £60m-ish partly off-set by Danilo going the other way .
That has not worked out , clearly .
Also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it stays at two years , there is clearly a big problem .
Sterling and De Bruyne have already made it plain they are unsettled by the chance of two years without CL football , and others may feel the same if the Uefa ban is upheld .
In that situation , City will find it hard to resist - they and Pep have always said they do n't believe in standing in the way of want-away players .
Why is Sane not getting minutes please ?
After all , he is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guy - I think .
For one thing , Sane has been out for a long time , and looked rusty when he went on against Burnley .
The question is also whether City should be going out of their way to please him , when he as made it plain he wants to leave .
Is it fair on players who have stayed loyal , and also deserve minutes ?
I love watching Leroy play , but understand how the manager sees it .
Who is a more dynamic player : Kolarov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more dynamic - he made his name as a powerful , raiding left back with a devastating left foot shot .
He showed that to some extent at City , but had his defensive weaknesses .
Zinchenko is far from being conventional left back - you can tell he is a midfielder asked to do a job in that role , and the fact that Pep 's system encourages him to drift inside and boost midfield numbers suits him perfectly .
But I would n't say he is dynamic .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Stuart Brennan, Lee Swettenham)

There's a lot happening at Manchester City right now, both on and off the pitch.
Following Thursday night's defeat at Chelsea, our City correspondent Stuart Brennan held a Q&A webchat and answered questions from Blues across the world, touching on the current team, transfers, Leroy Sane and what Pep's plans for the future might be.
Here's what happened ...
What do you think the Premier League top four will look like next season, with City and Liverpool challenging again, and possible improvements made by Chelsea, United, Spurs and also Leicester and Wolves maybe in the mix?
I reckon City and Liverpool are still some way ahead of the others, and if the Blues strengthen key areas in the next window, I can only see those two for the title. Liverpool's reaction is important, but United are clearly improving rapidly, and Chelsea will be a lot stronger but beyond those four I don't see any challengers.
Do you think that Pep will be planning to strengthen any specific areas this summer? And are there any squad members who might be fighting for the futures at City over the next few weeks?
A new centre back is an absolute must. We saw it again at Chelsea when, even with the first choice pair of Fernandinho and Laporte, City were vulnerable to the counter. They lack pace in that central area, with only Laporte having any kind of acceleration - Ferna has never been quick, Garcia is slow, Otamendi is slower, and then Rodri and Gundgan are both slouches. It is a big weakness.
Also, Mendy has also cast doubts over the left back slot again, and with Cancelo going, a new right back is another necessity, not to mention a deputy goalkeeper as Bravo is set to go.
When will Pep stop making experiments like playing without a striker during big games? And when are we buying another LB and CB?
Pep will NEVER stop doing that. When it comes off, which is more often than not, he is hailed as a genius. When it doesn't, like last night, it looks bad. But Jesus had an injury and was only fit enough for the bench, so with Aguero out, there was little choice but to innovate last night. CB will be top of the list, LB will depend on Mendy's response.
Sign up to our free MCFC email newsletter Man City are Premier League champions! Get all the reaction plus daily news and analysis direct to your inbox with our free MCFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
Where do you think it all went wrong for City this season Stuart? Pep mentioned a lack of desire, do you think after all the success the past 2 seasons there might have been a bit of complacency in the squad this season?
Pep did say that he felt his team had lost a little desire, something which Liverpool had in spades. It is incredibly hard to pick it up for a third time after two incredible seasons and in most other seasons, City would still be fighting for the title. But there are structural reasons too - failure to replace Kompany, Otamendi staying a year too long - all defensive problems.
What do you think about Foden’s willingness to stay at the club instead of go on a loan where he would’ve had more playing time and worked hard to break in to the team?
I don't think Foden was ever given the choice! Pep always made it plain that he felt the best development he could have would be to work every day with players like KDB, David Silva and Bernardo. That has proved to be the right call - he is blossoming nicely.
Regarding recruitment for next season - do you feel we must improve in our business dealings - 60m plus for both Rhodri and Cancelo is looking rather poor value at the moment. Added to which should CAS decision leave us with a ban of some form, are you confident we will not hold out for big fee's for want away start seeking CL glory - who obviously cant cut it consistently at PL level.
To be fair, Rodri has been good in my opinion, especially in his first PL season in a pivotal role, and I think he will get better. Cancelo's problem seems to be his attitude, and his deal was only £60m-ish partly off-set by Danilo going the other way. That has not worked out, clearly.
Also, on the CAS ban, f it stays at two years, there is clearly a big problem. Sterling and De Bruyne have already made it plain they are unsettled by the chance of two years without CL football, and others may feel the same if the Uefa ban is upheld. In that situation, City will find it hard to resist - they and Pep have always said they don't believe in standing in the way of want-away players.
Why is Sane not getting minutes please? After all, he is still our player -a loyal and an honest guy - I think.
For one thing, Sane has been out for a long time, and looked rusty when he went on against Burnley. The question is also whether City should be going out of their way to please him, when he as made it plain he wants to leave. Is it fair on players who have stayed loyal, and also deserve minutes? I love watching Leroy play, but understand how the manager sees it.
Who is a more dynamic player: Kolarov or Zinchenko and why?
Kolarov was the more dynamic - he made his name as a powerful, raiding left back with a devastating left foot shot. He showed that to some extent at City, but had his defensive weaknesses.
Zinchenko is far from being conventional left back - you can tell he is a midfielder asked to do a job in that role, and the fact that Pep's system encourages him to drift inside and boost midfield numbers suits him perfectly. But I wouldn't say he is dynamic.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Sir Alex Ferguson congratulates Liverpool on Premier League title win

Sir Kenny Dalglish has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson sent him a text in the aftermath of Liverpool ’ s Premier League title victory .
Liverpool ’ s 30-year wait for a league title was finally ended on Thursday night as Manchester City were beaten 2-1 by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge .
The result meant Pep Guardiola ’ s men can now not catch Jurgen Klopp ’ s side at the top of the Premier League table .
And Ferguson , who led United to 13 league titles during his Old Trafford tenure , contacted Dalglish to send a message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alex Ferguson ) has contacted us to say congratulations by the modern medium , ” Dalglish said , who also revealed that City were similarly humble .
“ You go through the older generation , Fergie at Man Utd , Brian Kidd , Mike Summerbee all the old foes who went through football at the same time as us , '' he added .
“ At the end of the year you sent a letter of congratulations and to say well done .
That continues through .
It is a great compliment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have the intelligence so that you are magnanimous enough to send in a letter saying congratulations .
`` Everyone is in the same game , aren ’ t they ?
These days it has gone more technical , you get your texts or emails off the people who you have been competing with all your life in football .
They would wish it was themselves who won it but they are proud to pay homage to other people as well .
`` It has always happened .
You just congratulate each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is you next year .
“ You are not at war .
People shake hands before every game and after every game .
You are in competition obviously but it is manners to say congratulations and well done.
” Before Dalglish added on Liverpool 's 30-year wait : “ People were laughing at Manchester United when they went 26 years and we have improved that to 30 .
“ Nobody would ever have anticipated that and the simple reason we didn ’ t win was because we hadn ’ t been good enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and thoroughly deserved it this year .
“ They didn ’ t need to win the league to show their success .
They are World Club champions and Champions League winners .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sir Kenny Dalglish has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson sent him a text in the aftermath of Liverpool’s Premier League title victory.
Liverpool’s 30-year wait for a league title was finally ended on Thursday night as Manchester City were beaten 2-1 by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The result meant Pep Guardiola’s men can now not catch Jurgen Klopp’s side at the top of the Premier League table.
And Ferguson, who led United to 13 league titles during his Old Trafford tenure, contacted Dalglish to send a message of congratulations.
“He (Sir Alex Ferguson) has contacted us to say congratulations by the modern medium,” Dalglish said, who also revealed that City were similarly humble.
“You go through the older generation, Fergie at Man Utd, Brian Kidd, Mike Summerbee all the old foes who went through football at the same time as us," he added.
“At the end of the year you sent a letter of congratulations and to say well done. That continues through. It is a great compliment. You are in competition and rivals but to have the intelligence so that you are magnanimous enough to send in a letter saying congratulations.
"Everyone is in the same game, aren’t they? These days it has gone more technical, you get your texts or emails off the people who you have been competing with all your life in football. They would wish it was themselves who won it but they are proud to pay homage to other people as well.
"It has always happened. You just congratulate each other and at the same time hope it is you next year.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
“You are not at war. People shake hands before every game and after every game. You are in competition obviously but it is manners to say congratulations and well done.”
Before Dalglish added on Liverpool's 30-year wait: “People were laughing at Manchester United when they went 26 years and we have improved that to 30.
“Nobody would ever have anticipated that and the simple reason we didn’t win was because we hadn’t been good enough. They went very close last year and thoroughly deserved it this year.
“They didn’t need to win the league to show their success. They are World Club champions and Champions League winners.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Man City must replicate Liverpool transfer decision to reassert dominance

“ Southampton have got one hell of a deal .
Van Dijk is a good player , yes , but for £75m ?
No , he 's not worth it at all.
” That was the opinion of Alan Shearer when Liverpool announced that they would sign Virgil van Dijk in the 2017 January transfer window .
He was not alone .
Harry Redknapp called it “ crazy money ” .
Many fans despaired at the price tag .
Van Dijk immediately became the most expensive defender of all-time and was £25m more than the next most-expensive centre-half at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saint-Germain paid to sign David Luiz from Chelsea in 2014 .
And this came after a £60m deal fell through in the summer before .
Not only did Liverpool seemingly pay over the odds ; they paid £15m more than they were willing to just six months earlier .
But the Reds knew what they wanted and they did not care what it cost to acquire it , as Jurgen Klopp said at the time .
“ Quality .
That 's why we got him , ” he told Sky Sports via the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people think 'wow , what a number this is ' but of course for me , this is not interesting , we do n't make the prices , the market makes the prices and the first thing all Liverpool supporters should forget is the price .
“ We only talk about the player and what he can bring .
It 's quality , it 's character , it 's mentality and all that stuff .
That 's why we are really happy.
” Klopp focused on Van Dijk the player and recognised that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter the cost .
Of course , hindsight shows just what an impact Van Dijk has had on the Liverpool team .
It was immediate from the moment he stepped onto the pitch .
That very season , in the 23 Premier League games before Van Dijk ’ s arrival , Liverpool conceded 28 goals , the sixth-best tally in the league at that stage .
In the 15 games proceeding Van Dijk ’ s arrival , they conceded just 10 goals , tied for first in the league .
Comparing Van Dijk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the 50 games preceding his inclusion , Liverpool ’ s win-rate jumped 14 % , they conceded 16 fewer goals , and they kept six more clean sheets .
Since then , Liverpool have gone on to sensational standards , winning the Champions League , now winning the Premier League , and on course to challenge Manchester City ’ s points record , both in a single season and over a two-season period .
Van Dijk has been crucial to that and the ruthlessness with which Liverpool went and acquired him from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pep Guardiola ’ s team is in an eerily similar situation to where Liverpool were in the six months prior to signing Van Dijk .
They have a prolific attacking unit .
They have actually scored seven more goals than any other team in the league .
Liverpool were the same in 2017/18 .
But they are let down by their shortcomings in defence .
City have conceded 33 goals in 31 games this season .
That ranks fifth in the league and is 12 more than Liverpool ’ s 21 goals conceded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two teams .
It is the primary reason for the 23-point chasm that currently separates them .
Centre-back , specifically , has been a huge issue for City .
Last summer , the leadership and commanding presence of Vincent Kompany departed .
Then Aymeric Laporte suffered a knee injury early in the season .
He has since played just six Premier League matches and is yet to complete a full 90 minutes .
This left Guardiola scrambling .
City attempted to sign a centre-back last summer in replacement of Kompany but failed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking his place in midfield , while Guardiola attempted to piece together the remainder of his backline with Nicolas Otamendi , John Stones and even Eric Garcia handed playing time at different stages of the season .
There is no doubting what City ’ s major need is this summer .
The squad is plentiful at almost every position , perhaps bar left-back and some sprucing up with younger players in certain areas .
The starting XI is tremendous across the board .
And then there is centre-back .
Guardiola himself hinted at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When asked about his attacking options with Leroy Sane set to leave the club and Sergio Aguero having undergone knee surgery , he told reporters : “ I think we have other priorities maybe .
And I don ’ t know , after the coronavirus , if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing .
I don ’ t know what the situation is .
We ’ re going to see at the end of this season.
” Per the London Evening Standard , Benfica centre-back Ruben Dias has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rue missing out on £80m Manchester United star , Harry Maguire , who broke Van Dijk ’ s transfer record for a defender last summer .
There have been consistent links with Dayot Upamecano , too .
He has a year remaining on his contract at RB Leipzig , though his being left-footed makes his role in the team questionable with Laporte certain to take one of the two starting spots .
Whichever way City lean this summer , they would be wise to take a leaf out of Liverpool ’ s book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they find the player that they believe is the difference , they must sign him , no matter the cost .
That is what Liverpool did with Van Dijk and look where they are now .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
“Southampton have got one hell of a deal. Van Dijk is a good player, yes, but for £75m? No, he's not worth it at all.”
That was the opinion of Alan Shearer when Liverpool announced that they would sign Virgil van Dijk in the 2017 January transfer window.
He was not alone. Harry Redknapp called it “crazy money”. Many fans despaired at the price tag. Van Dijk immediately became the most expensive defender of all-time and was £25m more than the next most-expensive centre-half at the time, which was the £50m Paris Saint-Germain paid to sign David Luiz from Chelsea in 2014.
And this came after a £60m deal fell through in the summer before. Not only did Liverpool seemingly pay over the odds; they paid £15m more than they were willing to just six months earlier.
But the Reds knew what they wanted and they did not care what it cost to acquire it, as Jurgen Klopp said at the time.
“Quality. That's why we got him,” he told Sky Sports via the Liverpool Echo. “I can imagine people think 'wow, what a number this is' but of course for me, this is not interesting, we don't make the prices, the market makes the prices and the first thing all Liverpool supporters should forget is the price.
“We only talk about the player and what he can bring. It's quality, it's character, it's mentality and all that stuff. That's why we are really happy.”
Klopp focused on Van Dijk the player and recognised that he had to sign him, no matter the cost.
Of course, hindsight shows just what an impact Van Dijk has had on the Liverpool team. It was immediate from the moment he stepped onto the pitch.
That very season, in the 23 Premier League games before Van Dijk’s arrival, Liverpool conceded 28 goals, the sixth-best tally in the league at that stage. In the 15 games proceeding Van Dijk’s arrival, they conceded just 10 goals, tied for first in the league.
Comparing Van Dijk’s first 50 games at Liverpool with the 50 games preceding his inclusion, Liverpool’s win-rate jumped 14%, they conceded 16 fewer goals, and they kept six more clean sheets.
Since then, Liverpool have gone on to sensational standards, winning the Champions League, now winning the Premier League, and on course to challenge Manchester City’s points record, both in a single season and over a two-season period.
Van Dijk has been crucial to that and the ruthlessness with which Liverpool went and acquired him from Southampton is pertinent to City now.
Pep Guardiola’s team is in an eerily similar situation to where Liverpool were in the six months prior to signing Van Dijk. They have a prolific attacking unit. They have actually scored seven more goals than any other team in the league. Liverpool were the same in 2017/18. But they are let down by their shortcomings in defence.
City have conceded 33 goals in 31 games this season. That ranks fifth in the league and is 12 more than Liverpool’s 21 goals conceded. This is the difference between the two teams. It is the primary reason for the 23-point chasm that currently separates them.
Centre-back, specifically, has been a huge issue for City. Last summer, the leadership and commanding presence of Vincent Kompany departed. Then Aymeric Laporte suffered a knee injury early in the season. He has since played just six Premier League matches and is yet to complete a full 90 minutes.
Sign up to our free MCFC email newsletter Man City are Premier League champions! Get all the reaction plus daily news and analysis direct to your inbox with our free MCFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
This left Guardiola scrambling. City attempted to sign a centre-back last summer in replacement of Kompany but failed. Fernandinho subsequently slotted into defence with Rodri taking his place in midfield, while Guardiola attempted to piece together the remainder of his backline with Nicolas Otamendi, John Stones and even Eric Garcia handed playing time at different stages of the season.
There is no doubting what City’s major need is this summer. The squad is plentiful at almost every position, perhaps bar left-back and some sprucing up with younger players in certain areas. The starting XI is tremendous across the board. And then there is centre-back.
Guardiola himself hinted at a potential centre-back addition this week. When asked about his attacking options with Leroy Sane set to leave the club and Sergio Aguero having undergone knee surgery, he told reporters: “I think we have other priorities maybe. And I don’t know, after the coronavirus, if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing. I don’t know what the situation is. We’re going to see at the end of this season.”
Per the London Evening Standard, Benfica centre-back Ruben Dias has been watched, while Guardiola is said to rue missing out on £80m Manchester United star, Harry Maguire, who broke Van Dijk’s transfer record for a defender last summer.
There have been consistent links with Dayot Upamecano, too. He has a year remaining on his contract at RB Leipzig, though his being left-footed makes his role in the team questionable with Laporte certain to take one of the two starting spots.
Whichever way City lean this summer, they would be wise to take a leaf out of Liverpool’s book and replicate their transfer approach. If they find the player that they believe is the difference, they must sign him, no matter the cost. That is what Liverpool did with Van Dijk and look where they are now.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Erling Haaland gives definitive transfer update amid Man Utd links

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland has dismissed the idea he could be set to leave the club just six months after joining from Red Bull Salzburg amid transfer links to Manchester United .
The Reds were interested in the Norway international during the January transfer window following his exceptional form for the Austrian side .
However , Haaland opted instead to move to the Bundesliga .
The forward has made a blistering start to life in Germany , scoring 16 goals in his first 17 appearances for Dortmund .
Despite only joining the club at the start of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an exit , with some outlets suggesting Dortmund could cash in on the 19-year-old in the upcoming transfer window .
His contract is believed to contain a release clause of around £60million which has reportedly attracted interest from United and Real Madrid .
Haaland has categorically dismissed the idea of leaving Dortmund any time soon and reiterated his intention to win trophies with the German side .
`` I live in the present , '' he told WAZ .
`` I have just arrived in Dortmund and I ’ m not thinking of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the biggest clubs in the world .
I have signed a long-term contract and I don ’ t think too much about the future .
`` I decide what is the best thing for my career here and now .
I want to achieve something important with Borussia , not always be second , but also win the title as soon as possible .
`` The next year we set targets , we want to score as many goals , and I as a striker want to contribute . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland has dismissed the idea he could be set to leave the club just six months after joining from Red Bull Salzburg amid transfer links to Manchester United.
The Reds were interested in the Norway international during the January transfer window following his exceptional form for the Austrian side.
However, Haaland opted instead to move to the Bundesliga. The forward has made a blistering start to life in Germany, scoring 16 goals in his first 17 appearances for Dortmund.
Despite only joining the club at the start of the year, Haaland continues to be linked with an exit, with some outlets suggesting Dortmund could cash in on the 19-year-old in the upcoming transfer window. His contract is believed to contain a release clause of around £60million which has reportedly attracted interest from United and Real Madrid.
Haaland has categorically dismissed the idea of leaving Dortmund any time soon and reiterated his intention to win trophies with the German side.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
"I live in the present," he told WAZ. "I have just arrived in Dortmund and I’m not thinking of leaving for now.
"Dortmund are one of the biggest clubs in the world. I have signed a long-term contract and I don’t think too much about the future.
"I decide what is the best thing for my career here and now. I want to achieve something important with Borussia, not always be second, but also win the title as soon as possible.
"The next year we set targets, we want to score as many goals, and I as a striker want to contribute."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-27--Trafford Centre staff and shoppers have their say on Intu - and the future

Shoppers and staff at the Trafford Centre have spoken about their shock after owners Intu went into administration yesterday .
Retailers inside the centre remain open as usual for the time being , with the shopping centre gradually filling up as the morning continued .
A handful of shoppers could be seen waiting outside Marks and Spencer , Boots and Primark while the mall ’ s carparks were quiet .
Visitors to the centre , in Trafford Park , said they would be devastated if the mall was to close but remain hopeful another owner will take over .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerned over the collapse and believe somebody will take over the shopping centre soon .
Many said they believe Peel Holdings , the original owners of the Trafford Centre , will move into take over again although it is understood that to date there have been no discussions about selling the building .
Bill and Louise Rigby , from Chorlton , who were waiting to shop inside Mark and Spencer , said : `` I hope it can get sorted , it 's a big place .
The amount of customers and people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special destination .
`` You can get everything here .
All of the employees will find it hard . ''
Julia Walker , from Salford , said : `` I think it ’ s horrendous , all of the jobs in the centre associated with it are at risk .
`` The borough as a whole has been affected by the pandemic and now this .
`` It ’ s somewhere to come to .
It would absolutely affect my life if it closed , it ’ s the only place I go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just the shops , it is a community facility . ''
Another shopper , who wishes to remain anonymous , said : “ I ’ m hoping somebody will buy it out .
It will be a big loss , even though when you live locally it causes traffic .
It ’ s so handy .
There is a variety of shops .
`` It would be a big mistake if nobody goes in and buys it .
So many people work here , not locally but all over .
It will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worry what will happen to it.
” Karen Palfrey , of Salford , said she has relied on the Marks and Spencer store for groceries during the pandemic .
She said : “ It ’ s mad .
I think Peel Holdings will buy it - it ’ s not going to go , it is too big to go .
`` It would affect the whole area if it closed , there ’ s enough jobs going at the moment .
It ’ s been so busy during the week .
Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ queue .
The service is excellent.
” Other customers have rushed to the shopping centre to use gift vouchers over concerns they would no longer be valid .
Maria Byrne said : `` I ’ ve got a gift voucher , it was a Christmas present .
I ’ ve not used it because everything was shut due to Covid .
`` I thought 'Oh my god , I had better spend the gift voucher they might be void ' .
`` It ’ s £150 , I was going to keep it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trafford Centre staff members , some still wearing the orange branded Intu uniform , said they were not too concerned over the firm going into administration .
One worker , who wishes to remain anonymous , said : “ It ’ s happened before with big takeovers .
`` I will be gutted if it does fall .
It ’ s the farcical way of the world at the moment .
I ’ m a customer that shops here too.
” Another staff member said : “ I ’ m not that fussed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I think it might shut for a week , but then it will re-open and it will be normal.
” Intu announced on Friday afternoon the company had gone into administration .
They have filed to appoint James Robert Tucker , Michael Robert Pink and David John Pike from KPMG as administrators for the company .
In a statement released yesterday , Intu said all shops in the shopping mall will remain open as usual for the time being .
A statement on Intu 's website reads : `` Underlying group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centres are continuing to trade .
`` The intu Group ’ s relationships with its tenants are with these operating companies , not the companies entering administration .
`` The shopping centre operating companies have or are expected to enter into transitional services agreements with the Administrators of the central entities to ensure continuity of service provision by the central entities to the individual shopping centres . ''
There are 200 shops , restaurants and attractions house inside the Trafford Centre .
The Intu website says it employs 2,600 staff members across 15 @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
Shoppers and staff at the Trafford Centre have spoken about their shock after owners Intu went into administration yesterday.
Retailers inside the centre remain open as usual for the time being, with the shopping centre gradually filling up as the morning continued.
A handful of shoppers could be seen waiting outside Marks and Spencer, Boots and Primark while the mall’s carparks were quiet.
Visitors to the centre, in Trafford Park, said they would be devastated if the mall was to close but remain hopeful another owner will take over.
Meanwhile staff members said they were not too concerned over the collapse and believe somebody will take over the shopping centre soon.
Many said they believe Peel Holdings, the original owners of the Trafford Centre, will move into take over again although it is understood that to date there have been no discussions about selling the building.
Bill and Louise Rigby, from Chorlton, who were waiting to shop inside Mark and Spencer, said: "I hope it can get sorted, it's a big place. The amount of customers and people that come in, it's a special destination.
"You can get everything here. All of the employees will find it hard."
Julia Walker, from Salford, said: "I think it’s horrendous, all of the jobs in the centre associated with it are at risk.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"The borough as a whole has been affected by the pandemic and now this.
"It’s somewhere to come to. It would absolutely affect my life if it closed, it’s the only place I go to shop. It’s not just the shops, it is a community facility."
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
Another shopper, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “I’m hoping somebody will buy it out. It will be a big loss, even though when you live locally it causes traffic. It’s so handy. There is a variety of shops.
"It would be a big mistake if nobody goes in and buys it. So many people work here, not locally but all over. It will be sad to see it go and I worry what will happen to it.”
Karen Palfrey, of Salford, said she has relied on the Marks and Spencer store for groceries during the pandemic.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
She said: “It’s mad. I think Peel Holdings will buy it - it’s not going to go, it is too big to go.
"It would affect the whole area if it closed, there’s enough jobs going at the moment. It’s been so busy during the week. Every Saturday we’re here in this queue. The service is excellent.”
Other customers have rushed to the shopping centre to use gift vouchers over concerns they would no longer be valid.
Maria Byrne said: "I’ve got a gift voucher, it was a Christmas present. I’ve not used it because everything was shut due to Covid.
"I thought 'Oh my god, I had better spend the gift voucher they might be void'.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"It’s £150, I was going to keep it and treat myself to holiday clothes.”
Trafford Centre staff members, some still wearing the orange branded Intu uniform, said they were not too concerned over the firm going into administration.
One worker, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “It’s happened before with big takeovers.
"I will be gutted if it does fall. It’s the farcical way of the world at the moment. I’m a customer that shops here too.”
Another staff member said: “I’m not that fussed. Everyone says Peel will buy it.
"I think it might shut for a week, but then it will re-open and it will be normal.”
Intu announced on Friday afternoon the company had gone into administration.
They have filed to appoint James Robert Tucker, Michael Robert Pink and David John Pike from KPMG as administrators for the company.
In a statement released yesterday, Intu said all shops in the shopping mall will remain open as usual for the time being.
A statement on Intu's website reads: "Underlying group operating companies remain unaffected and all shopping centres are continuing to trade.
"The intu Group’s relationships with its tenants are with these operating companies, not the companies entering administration.
"The shopping centre operating companies have or are expected to enter into transitional services agreements with the Administrators of the central entities to ensure continuity of service provision by the central entities to the individual shopping centres."
There are 200 shops, restaurants and attractions house inside the Trafford Centre.
The Intu website says it employs 2,600 staff members across 15 locations in the UK.