themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Odion Ighalo praises three Manchester United teammates

Odion Ighalo has picked out three Manchester United teammates who have provided quality in attack since he arrived at the club .
Ighalo is on loan from Shanghai Shenhua until the end of the season , and scored his first goal on Thursday against Club Brugge .
The striker appears to have settled in well at Old Trafford , after he has made no secret of his desire to take every opportunity he is given for the club he supports .
He told United 's official website : “ This is what I am working for .
This is what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of when I was a kid .
Now it is in my hands so I have to fight for it .
I will give my blood to get it .
“ I am still working hard in every training session and doing some extra to make sure I get up to the level .
When I ’ m called upon , I will give my best.
” “ It 's been great here .
The lads are all great guys .
It ’ s a happy dressing room , the coach and everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
I ’ m really enjoying my time here . ''
Expanding on what he has noticed in training , Ighalo named three fellow attackers who have impressed him - including new signing Bruno Fernandes .
“ We have quality players in the team , '' Ighalo continued .
`` Martial is on fire , scoring goals .
Bruno [ Fernandes ] is doing well , [ Daniel ] James too , everybody from the goalkeeper to the top is working really hard .
So I think this is very good for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep the momentum going and keep winning games and fighting in every match , to make sure we get our objectives at the end of the season .
”

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
Odion Ighalo has picked out three Manchester United teammates who have provided quality in attack since he arrived at the club.
Ighalo is on loan from Shanghai Shenhua until the end of the season, and scored his first goal on Thursday against Club Brugge.
The striker appears to have settled in well at Old Trafford, after he has made no secret of his desire to take every opportunity he is given for the club he supports.
He told United's official website: “This is what I am working for. This is what I dream of and what I dreamt of when I was a kid. Now it is in my hands so I have to fight for it. I will give my blood to get it.
“I am still working hard in every training session and doing some extra to make sure I get up to the level. When I’m called upon, I will give my best.”
“It's been great here. The lads are all great guys. It’s a happy dressing room, the coach and everyone around the club make me feel at home. I’m really enjoying my time here."
Expanding on what he has noticed in training, Ighalo named three fellow attackers who have impressed him - including new signing Bruno Fernandes.
“We have quality players in the team," Ighalo continued.
"Martial is on fire, scoring goals. Bruno [Fernandes] is doing well, [Daniel] James too, everybody from the goalkeeper to the top is working really hard. So I think this is very good for the team.
"We need to keep the momentum going and keep winning games and fighting in every match, to make sure we get our objectives at the end of the season.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--A year ago Lee Warburton's daughters found out he'd been killed at work. This is what happened to th

A year ago Lee Warburton's daughters found out he'd been killed at work. This is what happened to them next

It was a day that started like any other day .
But by the end of it Hayley Tomlinson was laying flowers on a side street in Manchester city centre , with her daughters , Katie and Amy .
Hayley 's ex-partner , the girls ' father , Lee Warburton , had been at work when he was hit by a lorry .
For Hayley , the worst moment of her life came when she had to tell Katie and Amy , then aged just 10 and 9 , that he was dead .
`` As a parent you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 've just destroyed their entire existence .
`` You just watch your children crumble in front of you , '' she says now .
HGV driver Lee , who was 53 and a had a son from a previous relationship , had been guiding in a delivery vehicle , as banksman , when he was hit by it .
A year has passed since that awful day and Hayley has had many more experiences she never dreamed she would have .
But by talking about the effect of bereavement on children and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and help others who face the same life challenges .
'Everything has been ripped apart' Taxi operator Hayley , who lives in Stockport , was sitting in the garden on February 19 , 2019 , when she got a phone call from work asking her to phone Lee 's mum .
`` I phoned ( her ) and that 's when she said that he 'd died .
`` I felt like a child .
I wanted my mum .
The feeling of just loss and 'what am I going to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the girls ? '
Feeling very , very hopeless . ''
Hayley and Lee had split up four years ago , but with two children together , they were still close .
`` It was lot of disbelief , it was a lot of I did n't want it to be real '' , Hayley added .
`` When I went to see him in the Chapel of Rest I wanted him to wake up and say 'you know what I was only joking ' , I wish he would 've .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ death - especially when children are involved .
But from the day of Lee 's death , Hayley has encouraged her daughters to open up .
The girls , and Hayley 's mum Denise are present when the Manchester Evening News visits her home in Stockport on the week marking the anniversary of his death .
They all talk candidly .
`` Some people try to protect their children and hide them away '' , Hayley says .
`` There 's a lot that I do n't tell the girls , that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are older .
`` But there is no point ( hiding the truth ) , they will find out anyway .
`` The more you hide it from them , the worse it is .
They do n't understand it at all .
That becomes an issue in itself . ''
Her mum Denise agrees : `` Death has always been a taboo .
We do n't like to talk about death to children .
Unfortunately it 's a fact of life . ''
The night Lee died , Hayley took the girls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on New York Street , to pay tribute .
`` To me it was important that people knew that he was loved and that he was cared for , '' Hayley adds .
The days in the aftermath of Lee 's death were a 'blur ' and there were many unanswered questions about his death .
Hayley says she was offered no information , from any of the authorities she encountered , about coping with bereavement , and was n't told what counselling services would be available for her children .
She believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she was n't Lee 's next of kin .
`` There 's no funding .
I struggled to get any help at all .
When he first died , I did n't know what to do for the best .
`` There was no information , it 's very limited .
Even the police liaison officer said 'the children become forgotten children ' .
`` Nobody thinks about the children .
Cos it was only me and the girls , my whole focus was on them .
There 's not enough for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Apart from the grief , Katie and Amy were full of questions - about the practical details - which Hayley struggled to answer .
`` Every time I tried to answer ( questions ) I got very upset , which in turn upset the girls .
When you 're dealing with a bereavement you 're going to get upset , so will the kids .
`` That 's not nice - because you 're upsetting your kids and you do n't want to do that .
`` There is ( no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) straight away when someone dies .
There are massive waiting lists , which for children is no good . ''
Hayley had some tough decisions to make , like whether to allow her daughter Amy , who was nine at the time he died , to visit the Chapel of Rest .
`` Either she was going to be fine , or it was going to have a very detrimental effect on her .
`` I think there should be some kind of service , that when somebody dies , something straight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Rest or the important questions that children have .
They want to know what is going to happen to that person who has died .
That should be in place , '' she says .
For Hayley , it was important to do her own research into what counselling services were available .
She had no choice .
`` I really do believe that the initial way it 's dealt with will impact on the rest of their lives how they cope with it .
`` For us it 's been very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They were very close to their dad .
They used to go ( to his house ) every weekend . ''
Hayley says when she enquired , she was told Healthy Young Minds , a Children and Adult Mental Health Service provided by the NHS , had an 18 month waiting list .
She turned to a local charity , Beacon counselling , which had a waiting list of around two months .
It costs around £40 a session for children .
Amy in particular has benefited from the sessions , Hayley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been easy , and Hayley says there have been issues with her daughters ' behaviour .
The girls are going through different stages - Amy often feels angry , Katie has only recently come to terms with what has happened .
They are learning to address their grief , which in some ways is easier than the initial shock .
But in some ways it is worse .
`` They seem to have accepted the fact that Lee 's died and the routine has come back to normal .
The older they get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more they see what they are missing out on '' , Hayley adds .
`` Everything is that much more hard work .
You want your dad do n't you ? ''
Gran Denise , 61 , says it 's been 'stressful ' .
`` It 's hard to watch them go through it .
You just have to support them as best as you can .
It 's going to be a long road .
`` They know they can talk about their dad whenever they want . ''
Some people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them following the tragedy , and Hayley thinks schools should have lessons on bereavement .
Even now the family still have unanswered questions about how Lee died .
The family are still waiting for a date for the inquest and the outcome of a HSE investigation .
`` Once we 've had the inquest , we can get the closure we need .
At the minute there 's no closure , it 's still all up in the air .
There are unanswered questions .
When there is closure , it does help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum Denise has 'given up her life ' to help out when Hayley goes to work or to an appointment .
`` It 's a bit of a nightmare childcare wise , '' Hayley says .
Life is hard without Lee , but there are touching moments too .
They are a tight family unit and care deeply about each other .
The children bring out photos and memory boxes during the interview .
They bought a teddy in memory of Lee which said 'Happy First Father 's Day in heaven ' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remember their dad , the girls laugh about his bad habits .
How he would bite his toe nails and shove crisp packets down the side of the sofa .
They would have takeaways together and he 'd take them to the pet shop near the Apollo .
The family are going on a trip to Zante in May , a holiday spot they would regularly go with Lee .
Songs remind the family of him .
Amy thinks of Wonderwall by Oasis , and Blue Moon - the anthem of his beloved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes outside to the garden with the girls to have their picture taken , Denise reflects on the bond Hayley and her daughters share .
`` There are tender moments .
They idolises their mum and she idolises them , '' she says .
What the experts say A spokesman for the HSE said they are 'continuing to work ' with GMP , who are investigating the cause of Lee 's death .
Joanne Whittingham , associate directorate manager Healthy Young Minds , urged parents in the same situation as Hayley to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GP for advice .
She said : “ We are very sorry to hear about the family ’ s loss and struggles in accessing support at this difficult time .
“ Healthy Young Minds is a specialised mental health service for children and young people and may not have been the right service depending on the needs of the children .
`` Our current waiting times are up to four months and urgent referrals are seen in a much shorter time frame .
“ We would advise any parent who experiences bereavement to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for advice on services they may be able to access .
`` We take referrals from GPs and they can contact us for consultation and advice on whether our service is right for the child.
” James Harper , chief executive of Beacon Counselling , agreed that there are a lack of resources for families who are going through bereavement .
He said : `` Some support in Greater Manchester has disappeared in recent years so the situation is worse than before .
`` We notice that the worst affected are children in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school or are not attending .
More is needed generally , but especially for younger children . ''
He agreed that waiting lists for Young Minds are long , and that there is a 'real lack ' of charities like Beacon .
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy has a directory of counsellors in private practice at www.bacp.co.uk .
National charities like Winston 's Wish and Child Bereavement UK have advice , guidance and information on local support .
Hayley held a fundraising event for Beacon Counselling to thank them for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy .

It was a day that started like any other day.
But by the end of it Hayley Tomlinson was laying flowers on a side street in Manchester city centre, with her daughters, Katie and Amy.
Hayley's ex-partner, the girls' father, Lee Warburton, had been at work when he was hit by a lorry.
For Hayley, the worst moment of her life came when she had to tell Katie and Amy, then aged just 10 and 9, that he was dead.
"As a parent you don't want to hurt your children and you've just destroyed their entire existence.
"You just watch your children crumble in front of you," she says now.
HGV driver Lee, who was 53 and a had a son from a previous relationship, had been guiding in a delivery vehicle, as banksman, when he was hit by it.
A year has passed since that awful day and Hayley has had many more experiences she never dreamed she would have.
But by talking about the effect of bereavement on children and ex-partners, she hopes to break taboos, and help others who face the same life challenges.
'Everything has been ripped apart'
Taxi operator Hayley, who lives in Stockport, was sitting in the garden on February 19, 2019, when she got a phone call from work asking her to phone Lee's mum.
"I phoned (her) and that's when she said that he'd died.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"I felt like a child. I wanted my mum. The feeling of just loss and 'what am I going to do and how am I going to look after the girls?' Feeling very, very hopeless."
Hayley and Lee had split up four years ago, but with two children together, they were still close.
"It was lot of disbelief, it was a lot of I didn't want it to be real", Hayley added. "When I went to see him in the Chapel of Rest I wanted him to wake up and say 'you know what I was only joking', I wish he would've."
People often feel uncomfortable talking about death - especially when children are involved.
But from the day of Lee's death, Hayley has encouraged her daughters to open up.
The girls, and Hayley's mum Denise are present when the Manchester Evening News visits her home in Stockport on the week marking the anniversary of his death. They all talk candidly.
"Some people try to protect their children and hide them away", Hayley says.
"There's a lot that I don't tell the girls, that they won't need to know until they are older.
"But there is no point (hiding the truth), they will find out anyway.
"The more you hide it from them, the worse it is. They don't understand it at all. That becomes an issue in itself."
Her mum Denise agrees: "Death has always been a taboo. We don't like to talk about death to children. Unfortunately it's a fact of life."
The night Lee died, Hayley took the girls to the scene of the crash, on New York Street, to pay tribute.
"To me it was important that people knew that he was loved and that he was cared for," Hayley adds.
Getting help
The days in the aftermath of Lee's death were a 'blur' and there were many unanswered questions about his death.
Hayley says she was offered no information, from any of the authorities she encountered, about coping with bereavement, and wasn't told what counselling services would be available for her children.
She believes that is partly down to the fact that she wasn't Lee's next of kin.
"There's no funding. I struggled to get any help at all. When he first died, I didn't know what to do for the best.
"There was no information, it's very limited. Even the police liaison officer said 'the children become forgotten children'.
"Nobody thinks about the children. Cos it was only me and the girls, my whole focus was on them. There's not enough for children when their (parent) dies."
(Image: ABNM Photography)
Apart from the grief, Katie and Amy were full of questions - about the practical details - which Hayley struggled to answer.
"Every time I tried to answer (questions) I got very upset, which in turn upset the girls. When you're dealing with a bereavement you're going to get upset, so will the kids.
"That's not nice - because you're upsetting your kids and you don't want to do that.
"There is (no counselling service) that is (available) straight away when someone dies. There are massive waiting lists, which for children is no good."
Hayley had some tough decisions to make, like whether to allow her daughter Amy, who was nine at the time he died, to visit the Chapel of Rest.
"Either she was going to be fine, or it was going to have a very detrimental effect on her.
"I think there should be some kind of service, that when somebody dies, something straight away where somebody explains about the Chapel of Rest or the important questions that children have. They want to know what is going to happen to that person who has died. That should be in place," she says.
For Hayley, it was important to do her own research into what counselling services were available. She had no choice.
"I really do believe that the initial way it's dealt with will impact on the rest of their lives how they cope with it.
"For us it's been very difficult. Everything has been ripped apart. They were very close to their dad. They used to go (to his house) every weekend."
Hayley says when she enquired, she was told Healthy Young Minds, a Children and Adult Mental Health Service provided by the NHS, had an 18 month waiting list.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
She turned to a local charity, Beacon counselling, which had a waiting list of around two months.
It costs around £40 a session for children.
Amy in particular has benefited from the sessions, Hayley says.
A year on
The grieving process hasn't been easy, and Hayley says there have been issues with her daughters' behaviour.
The girls are going through different stages - Amy often feels angry, Katie has only recently come to terms with what has happened.
The pair fight more.
They are learning to address their grief, which in some ways is easier than the initial shock.
But in some ways it is worse.
"They seem to have accepted the fact that Lee's died and the routine has come back to normal. The older they get the more questions they have, the more they see what they are missing out on", Hayley adds.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"Everything is that much more hard work. You want your dad don't you?"
Gran Denise, 61, says it's been 'stressful'.
"It's hard to watch them go through it. You just have to support them as best as you can. It's going to be a long road.
"They know they can talk about their dad whenever they want."
Some people have struggled to know what to say to them following the tragedy, and Hayley thinks schools should have lessons on bereavement.
Even now the family still have unanswered questions about how Lee died.
The family are still waiting for a date for the inquest and the outcome of a HSE investigation.
"Once we've had the inquest, we can get the closure we need. At the minute there's no closure, it's still all up in the air. There are unanswered questions. When there is closure, it does help a lot."
Hayley says her mum Denise has 'given up her life' to help out when Hayley goes to work or to an appointment.
"It's a bit of a nightmare childcare wise," Hayley says.
Life is hard without Lee, but there are touching moments too.
They are a tight family unit and care deeply about each other.
The children bring out photos and memory boxes during the interview.
They bought a teddy in memory of Lee which said 'Happy First Father's Day in heaven', Amy says.
When asked how they remember their dad, the girls laugh about his bad habits.
How he would bite his toe nails and shove crisp packets down the side of the sofa.
They would have takeaways together and he'd take them to the pet shop near the Apollo.
The family are going on a trip to Zante in May, a holiday spot they would regularly go with Lee.
Songs remind the family of him.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
Amy thinks of Wonderwall by Oasis, and Blue Moon - the anthem of his beloved football club Manchester City.
As Hayley goes outside to the garden with the girls to have their picture taken, Denise reflects on the bond Hayley and her daughters share.
"There are tender moments. They idolises their mum and she idolises them," she says.
What the experts say
A spokesman for the HSE said they are 'continuing to work' with GMP, who are investigating the cause of Lee's death.
Joanne Whittingham, associate directorate manager Healthy Young Minds, urged parents in the same situation as Hayley to get in touch with their local schools or GP for advice.
She said: “We are very sorry to hear about the family’s loss and struggles in accessing support at this difficult time.
“Healthy Young Minds is a specialised mental health service for children and young people and may not have been the right service depending on the needs of the children.
"Our current waiting times are up to four months and urgent referrals are seen in a much shorter time frame.
“We would advise any parent who experiences bereavement to speak to their local schools or GP for advice on services they may be able to access.
"We take referrals from GPs and they can contact us for consultation and advice on whether our service is right for the child.”
James Harper, chief executive of Beacon Counselling, agreed that there are a lack of resources for families who are going through bereavement.
He said: "Some support in Greater Manchester has disappeared in recent years so the situation is worse than before.
"We notice that the worst affected are children in primary school and those that have left school or are not attending. More is needed generally, but especially for younger children."
He agreed that waiting lists for Young Minds are long, and that there is a 'real lack' of charities like Beacon.
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy has a directory of counsellors in private practice at www.bacp.co.uk.
National charities like Winston's Wish and Child Bereavement UK have advice, guidance and information on local support.
Once Upon A Smile is a children's bereavement charity in Trafford that provides emotional and practical support for bereaved families at their time of need.
Hayley held a fundraising event for Beacon Counselling to thank them for the 'amazing' work they have done helping Amy.
To donate click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--James Bulger's mum Denise Fergus reveals why his birthday will be extra special this year

When two-year-old James Bulger was killed in February 1993 , it was a crime that affected the nation .
In a few weeks , his mother Denise Fergus and her family will mark a milestone birthday .
With the boys who killed him never seeing the inside of an adult jail , Denise feels cheated of justice .
But James ' birthday this year on March 16 will not be a moment of sadness - but one with a positive legacy .
The youngster was two when he was abducted and murdered by two 10-year-old boys , Robert Thompson and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They served eight years in children ’ s secure units - Venables was sent to the Red Bank Home in Merseyside while Thompson was housed in Barton Moss Secure Care Centre in Manchester .
After being freed in 2001 , they were given new identities at the age of 18 .
Years later , when Denise and her husband Stuart found out they had been housed in close proximity to their home in Liverpool - one just 25 minutes away - they were devastated .
Denise said : “ They may as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me , at least then I would have known where they were and I would have kept a closer eye on them.
” Speaking on a new podcast series , 'Helen Wood chats to ... ' , the couple explained how over the years they would be approached on the street by complete strangers who claimed to have knowledge about James ' killers lifestyles at the children 's units .
Stuart said : “ We could be out shopping one day and someone would come and speak to us and then walk away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knock at the door , total strangers who say she [ Denise ] was not getting the correct justice.
” While Thompson has kept a low profile , Venables - whose identity has been leaked online - was sent to prison in 2010 and 2017 over possession of child abuse imagery .
This prompted Denise to petition the government to conduct a public inquiry into her son 's case , which she believes raised a 'number of issues that have been swept under the carpet ' .
In the petition , which received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why experts deemed Venables to be rehabilitated , and called for the report of the prison service into an 'incident ' at Red Bank secure unit to be published .
The government responded : `` The offender was convicted of further offences as a direct result of robust and effective monitoring .
Therefore the Government considers that a public inquiry into this tragic case is not necessary . ''
The frustrated mum - who also has thee other sons , Thomas , Leon and Michael - believes that Venables should be held to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , believing it 's 'his fault ' .
She continued : “ He ’ s untouchable , that ’ s the way it feels .
All the money that ’ s spent on him to hide his identity , hundreds of thousands have been spent on him.
” Stuart agreed , adding : “ He ’ s laughed in the face of the government . ''
Despite the horror of that day , Denise has always remained calm and composed and has dedicated her life to getting justice for her son .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight that is yet to be won .
Speaking to Big Brother winner Helen Wood on the podcast , which is a collaboration with the Manchester Evening News , Denise said : “ There ’ s been no justice for James whatsoever .
“ There 's only one thing that I asked for and that was for them to have a proper sentence in a prison .
“ I did n't expect them to throw away the key - I knew one day they ’ d walk again , but at least I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they ’ d have spent time in an adult prison .
“ But they never have done , they were put in a children ’ s secure unit where they got the best of everything so there 's no justice there again .
“ In fact I feel that they ’ ve been rewarded for the crime that they have committed - not punished.
” Since his death , Denise and her family have worked tirelessly to help other families in James ’ name through the work of the James Bulger Memorial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are disadvantaged through bereavement , crime , hatred or bullying , by providing family holidays .
They have events throughout the year to fundraise for the charity , and the next one will be their biggest yet .
This year ’ s Black Tie and Tiara Ball , Saturday , March 21 , will celebrate a milestone that James sadly never reached .
Denise , who wrote her own account of what happened in the book I Let Him Go , said : “ It will mark what would have been James @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a big one coming up in March , he would have been 30 so that 's going to be a special one for us .
“ I think celebration is the wrong word .
I 've always said mark , I 'll be marking what would have been James ’ birthday .
“ It ’ s a lovely night , everyone with smiles on their faces - you would n't think that the person that it is for is not in that room .
Because he is in that room , even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is still in that room.
” To find out more about the work of the James Bulger Memorial Trust , book tickets to an event or to donate , visit forjames.org .
You can download 'Helen Wood chats to ... ' wherever you listen to your podcasts , but for exclusive , interactive , immersive content download the Entale app for iOS and Android .
This is a Laudable production for the Manchester Evening News .
You can find out more about Laudable and its other local podcasts by following us on Twitter @ @ @

When two-year-old James Bulger was killed in February 1993, it was a crime that affected the nation.
In a few weeks, his mother Denise Fergus and her family will mark a milestone birthday. With the boys who killed him never seeing the inside of an adult jail, Denise feels cheated of justice.
But James' birthday this year on March 16 will not be a moment of sadness - but one with a positive legacy.
The youngster was two when he was abducted and murdered by two 10-year-old boys, Robert Thompson and Jon Venables, in Bootle, Merseyside.
They served eight years in children’s secure units - Venables was sent to the Red Bank Home in Merseyside while Thompson was housed in Barton Moss Secure Care Centre in Manchester.
After being freed in 2001, they were given new identities at the age of 18.
Years later, when Denise and her husband Stuart found out they had been housed in close proximity to their home in Liverpool - one just 25 minutes away - they were devastated.
Denise said: “They may as well have put one each side of me, at least then I would have known where they were and I would have kept a closer eye on them.”
(Image: ITV)
Speaking on a new podcast series, 'Helen Wood chats to...' , the couple explained how over the years they would be approached on the street by complete strangers who claimed to have knowledge about James' killers lifestyles at the children's units.
Stuart said: “We could be out shopping one day and someone would come and speak to us and then walk away.
“We’ve had people knock at the door, total strangers who say she [Denise] was not getting the correct justice.”
While Thompson has kept a low profile, Venables - whose identity has been leaked online - was sent to prison in 2010 and 2017 over possession of child abuse imagery.
This prompted Denise to petition the government to conduct a public inquiry into her son's case, which she believes raised a 'number of issues that have been swept under the carpet'.
(Image: PA)
In the petition, which received more than 213,000 signatures, Denise questioned why experts deemed Venables to be rehabilitated, and called for the report of the prison service into an 'incident' at Red Bank secure unit to be published.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The government responded: "The offender was convicted of further offences as a direct result of robust and effective monitoring. Therefore the Government considers that a public inquiry into this tragic case is not necessary."
The frustrated mum - who also has thee other sons, Thomas, Leon and Michael - believes that Venables should be held to account for his identity being leaked online, believing it's 'his fault'.
(Image: ITV)
She continued: “He’s untouchable, that’s the way it feels. All the money that’s spent on him to hide his identity, hundreds of thousands have been spent on him.”
Stuart agreed, adding: “He’s laughed in the face of the government."
Despite the horror of that day, Denise has always remained calm and composed and has dedicated her life to getting justice for her son.
But for her family, it's a fight that is yet to be won.
(Image: ITV)
Speaking to Big Brother winner Helen Wood on the podcast, which is a collaboration with the Manchester Evening News, Denise said: “There’s been no justice for James whatsoever.
“There's only one thing that I asked for and that was for them to have a proper sentence in a prison.
“I didn't expect them to throw away the key - I knew one day they’d walk again, but at least I would have had some justice for James if they’d have spent time in an adult prison.
(Image: Liverpool Echo)
“But they never have done, they were put in a children’s secure unit where they got the best of everything so there's no justice there again.
“In fact I feel that they’ve been rewarded for the crime that they have committed - not punished.”
Since his death, Denise and her family have worked tirelessly to help other families in James’ name through the work of the James Bulger Memorial Trust.
The charity supports young people who are disadvantaged through bereavement,crime, hatred or bullying, by providing family holidays.
They have events throughout the year to fundraise for the charity, and the next one will be their biggest yet.
This year’s Black Tie and Tiara Ball, Saturday, March 21, will celebrate a milestone that James sadly never reached.
Denise, who wrote her own account of what happened in the book I Let Him Go, said: “It will mark what would have been James’ birthday, and it’s a big one coming up in March, he would have been 30 so that's going to be a special one for us.
“I think celebration is the wrong word. I've always said mark, I'll be marking what would have been James’ birthday.
“It’s a lovely night, everyone with smiles on their faces - you wouldn't think that the person that it is for is not in that room. Because he is in that room, even if it's just a picture, he is still in that room.”
(Image: karen.browning@bonnierpublishing.com)
To find out more about the work of the James Bulger Memorial Trust, book tickets to an event or to donate, visit forjames.org .
You can download 'Helen Wood chats to...' wherever you listen to your podcasts, but for exclusive, interactive, immersive content download the Entale app for iOS and Android.
This is a Laudable production for the Manchester Evening News. You can find out more about Laudable and its other local podcasts by following us on Twitter and Instagram .
Follow Helen Wood on Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--What winning trophies means to Pep Guardiola and Man City

Manchester City and Pep Guardiola could be forgiven for not celebrating their latest triumph wildly .
Sunday 's Carabao Cup triumph was the 29th trophy in the Catalan 's coaching career and the eighth competition victory in the last nine for the club .
Instead , the celebrations at full-time were joyous as Gabriel Jesus jigged to the tune of Hey Jude and the Blues cheered and clapped their travelling fans .
Winning trophies still matters and while the first ones may have meant more , every competition victory is a sign that the club are in a good place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standards is the best possible way to ensure success in the future as the next generation of players look to match and emulate what those before them have managed .
While the coach may not always like making judgments based on results and trophies alone , it is inevitable .
`` [ They matter ] a lot , because it is what we want to give to this organisation for the future managers and players .
What we ’ ve done helps the club to know if we did it they have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this group of players have done .
`` That is the next step .
When you go to the Bernabeu and play like that , its another step we haven ’ t reached .
`` It 's like when you see Sergio .
He has won 13 since he was here , his legacy is amazing and the new strikers coming will have to compare to his high standard , if you want to maintain the level of the big clubs in Europe and the Premier League you need that , so it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Manchester City and Pep Guardiola could be forgiven for not celebrating their latest triumph wildly.
Sunday's Carabao Cup triumph was the 29th trophy in the Catalan's coaching career and the eighth competition victory in the last nine for the club. Instead, the celebrations at full-time were joyous as Gabriel Jesus jigged to the tune of Hey Jude and the Blues cheered and clapped their travelling fans.
Winning trophies still matters and while the first ones may have meant more, every competition victory is a sign that the club are in a good place. For Guardiola , lifting and maintaining standards is the best possible way to ensure success in the future as the next generation of players look to match and emulate what those before them have managed.
While the coach may not always like making judgments based on results and trophies alone, it is inevitable.
"[They matter] a lot, because it is what we want to give to this organisation for the future managers and players. What we’ve done helps the club to know if we did it they have to do it. To win titles as this group of players have done.
"That is the next step. When you go to the Bernabeu and play like that, its another step we haven’t reached.
"It's like when you see Sergio. He has won 13 since he was here, his legacy is amazing and the new strikers coming will have to compare to his high standard, if you want to maintain the level of the big clubs in Europe and the Premier League you need that, so it is very good news for the future."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Inside 'The Abs', the weird abandoned shopping centre Manchester forgot

Standing on the dark coloured concrete walkway next to disused railway sidings , covered in moss , you could be forgiven for thinking you were in soviet-era East Germany rather than in the heart of east Manchester .
But , on the horizon , you can see the roof of the Etihad Stadium sticking out , and the club 's sprawling , shiny new training ground and academy next door .
To the right are Bradford 's iconic former gas holders .
We are standing at the edge of a set of unique buildings with a dark if fascinating history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past it every week , many will know very little about .
We are at what was once one of the entrances to the former Manchester Abattoir complex .
The site includes an abandoned railway platform , an eerie shopping centre , and a re-purposed slaughterhouse .
Designed by architect Sydney George Besant-Roberts and opening in 1968 , the council built complex - opposite Phillips Park near Beswick and Bradford - promised to bring together the city 's network of abattoirs into one 'comprehensive ' site for the storing and slaughtering of livestock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Indeed hundreds of thousands of animals met their death here until it stopped being an abattoir in 2000 .
It had been home to dozens of butchers and trade suppliers , and there was abortive attempt to turn one of the former meat markets into shopping mall in the years after it shut .
Parts of the 20 acre site have now been re-born as the backdrop for dystopian TV dramas - including recent Sky hit drama Cobra .
And , as we begin our tour , it easy to see why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where many of the animals arrived during the 32 years that the site housed a slaughterhouse .
No longer accessible to the public , the Manchester Evening News has been granted special access to the area that was once a bustling depot , with trains coming and going , but is now a chilling relic frozen in time .
Specially built sidings off the ( still operating ) main railway line were able to bring up to 33 wagons containing animals , the majority from Ireland , to be killed for meat .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the grooves in the ground where they sat are still visible and so is all the concrete infrastructure , covered in branches , with huge puddles having formed after the torrential rain .
More pictures of the site A line of rusted metal gates lead into a path , with a walled off walkway at the side , where animals could be led off trains in single file .
A concrete pillar box , reminiscent of a Berlin Wall watchtower , remains where a man would sit and count the animals off the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where animals would have had what may have been their last drink before meeting their maker .
Over the wall you can look down to a field where sick animals were taken to graze and recovered .
There is a chute going down the side , which we are told was for the lambs who did n't survive the journey .
As the railway sidings were above the site on Riverpark Road , a huge ramp was constructed , from which the animals could be led down into what is now called 'block @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two-storey lairage accommodation , the place where animals were kept before they were sent to the slaughterhouse .
The lairage space and killing floor are now a furniture warehouse .
The vast 245x200 feet space could once house 1,500 cattle , 6,000 sheep and 800 pigs .
There was also vet 's accommodation and staff accommodation , including showers inside .
Manure chutes sent waste down to the ground floor .
All the paraphernalia may have gone but this area still evokes vivid memories for the man now in charge of it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but who now lives in New Moston , began working here as a 'slaughterman ' in 1980 , and has remained here in different roles ever since .
He is now site manager for the site owners Realty Estates .
`` Everyone round here knows 'the Abs ' he says .
`` It 's iconic , it 's a landmark .
`` Even now if you wanted to a order a cab and said 'pick me up at the Abs they 'd know where you mean . '
`` It 's a strange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolutely unique .
`` I have lots of memories here but thinking back to the days it was 'the Abs ' is a bit strange really because so it was so long ago and such a different time . ''
Now called Riverpark Trading Estate , after the road it sits on - facing Phillips Park just off Alan Turing Way - it 's still an operating business site , being used not only by the furniture firm for warehousing , but by other companies for storage and office space , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the former lairage block , which now has shelves stacked with flat pack furniture , the word 'Quarantine ' is spray painted on one of the huge concrete walls .
At first glance it could be a remnant of the abattoir days .
However this is , in fact , we are told , a more recent addition .
Around 14 years ago , as well as it 's everyday uses , the site was opened up to film crews .
Creative property consultancy , Space 2 , essentially an estate agent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been letting it for shoots , with a number of big stars having filmed scenes here .
And it 's versatility has seen it become extremely popular as a backdrop for a series of dystopian and gritty car dramas .
Crime drama No Offence , starring Will Mellor and Joanna Scanlan , Curfew with Sean Bean , Cold Call starring Sally Lindsay and Daniel Ryan and Channel 4 series Utopia are among the big name shows to feature scenes shot here .
In the popular Sky drama Cobra , about the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the abattoir 's former wholesale market featured as a hospital in the 'red zone ' that was left without power and became a makeshift refugee camp .
Stuart Hamilton , Regional Production Manager at Space 2 : `` Over the past fourteen years , we have worked with our partners across the UK , to facilitate locations and production spaces for countless features , television dramas , commercials and experiential activities .
`` Riverpark stands out as one of the most versatile ; both in terms of its flexibility and its location @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an atmosphere , that not only looks great on camera , but offers suitable spaces for even the largest of projects .
`` Productions continually find new ways of utilising the buildings , ranging from grittier police series , period dramas , to high concept sci-fi locations . ''
You can certainly see why more and more TV companies are clamouring to use this space .
Every corner you turn on is an architect 's dream with stunning examples of both brutalist and modernist design , inside and out .
The former wholesale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is probably its centrepiece and what makes it so recognisable from the outside .
The 20-sided polygon shaped building has doors , from what were the stalls , leading into a sprawling courtyard in the middle .
The courtyard is the bit in most demand from film crews , we 're told .
The names of some of the butchers that used to buy and sell here are still visible on the huge green doors where their vans would reverse up to be loaded and unloaded .
The wholesale meat market used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the old slaughtering hall , by a footbridge , which is visible on old aerial photos of the site , however this has now gone .
Only one butcher , Anthony Burns Ltd , and one poultry supplier , K Moore , still operate here and are based on the ground floor of the former slaughtering hall .
However back when there were hundreds of people working for dozens of butchers here , each had office space .
Some of these offices are occupied , including one by Jimmy , who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ front of his desk showing footage from the CCTV cameras across the site .
However that is one of the few modern touches .
And what a fascinating place it must be to work .
It is like stepping back in time with some of the stairwells , carpets , handrails doors and lights being the originals from 1960s .
In the same building - now know as the Business Centre - is what was originally called the Poultry Hall .
There were around 28 shops in here , half of which sold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connected to the meat trade such as cooked meats and utensils .
However this now resembles something from a zombie thriller having been left deserted for nearly two decades .
A sign for the former Riverpark Café on the ground is still visible .
However the paint and plaster around it are crumbling .
When the abattoir closed most of the traders went with it we are told .
Its owners added traditional shop fronts to the meat stalls as part of a plan to turn it into a specialist outlet mall for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never got off the ground and it has lain empty for some time .
The fire service and police often use it for training exercises we are told .
In fact the police used parts of the site as their base for the 2002 Commonwealth Games given its space and its proximity to the action .
Every lorry or large item entering the stadium had to come here to be searched and checked by sniffer dogs before it was allowed inside .
These days the most frequent visitors , other than occupants , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using it as car park for home games , including Jimmy , a big Blue , who has a short walk over to see his favourite team .
Lots of people also park outside on Riverpark Road - but many be oblivious to its past , and the treasure trove of history that lies inside .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Standing on the dark coloured concrete walkway next to disused railway sidings, covered in moss, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in soviet-era East Germany rather than in the heart of east Manchester.
But, on the horizon, you can see the roof of the Etihad Stadium sticking out, and the club's sprawling, shiny new training ground and academy next door. To the right are Bradford's iconic former gas holders.
We are standing at the edge of a set of unique buildings with a dark if fascinating history which, despite thousands of people driving past it every week, many will know very little about.
We are at what was once one of the entrances to the former Manchester Abattoir complex.
The site includes an abandoned railway platform, an eerie shopping centre, and a re-purposed slaughterhouse.
Designed by architect Sydney George Besant-Roberts and opening in 1968, the council built complex - opposite Phillips Park near Beswick and Bradford - promised to bring together the city's network of abattoirs into one 'comprehensive' site for the storing and slaughtering of livestock and the storing and sale of meat.
Indeed hundreds of thousands of animals met their death here until it stopped being an abattoir in 2000.
It had been home to dozens of butchers and trade suppliers, and there was abortive attempt to turn one of the former meat markets into shopping mall in the years after it shut.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Parts of the 20 acre site have now been re-born as the backdrop for dystopian TV dramas - including recent Sky hit drama Cobra.
And, as we begin our tour, it easy to see why.
Probably the most eerie part is where many of the animals arrived during the 32 years that the site housed a slaughterhouse.
No longer accessible to the public, the Manchester Evening News has been granted special access to the area that was once a bustling depot, with trains coming and going, but is now a chilling relic frozen in time.
Specially built sidings off the (still operating) main railway line were able to bring up to 33 wagons containing animals, the majority from Ireland, to be killed for meat.
The tracks have now been removed but the grooves in the ground where they sat are still visible and so is all the concrete infrastructure, covered in branches, with huge puddles having formed after the torrential rain.
More pictures of the site
A line of rusted metal gates lead into a path, with a walled off walkway at the side, where animals could be led off trains in single file.
A concrete pillar box, reminiscent of a Berlin Wall watchtower, remains where a man would sit and count the animals off the wagons.
As do the concrete troughs where animals would have had what may have been their last drink before meeting their maker.
Over the wall you can look down to a field where sick animals were taken to graze and recovered.
There is a chute going down the side, which we are told was for the lambs who didn't survive the journey.
As the railway sidings were above the site on Riverpark Road, a huge ramp was constructed, from which the animals could be led down into what is now called 'block one', but what was previously two-storey lairage accommodation, the place where animals were kept before they were sent to the slaughterhouse.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
The lairage space and killing floor are now a furniture warehouse. The vast 245x200 feet space could once house 1,500 cattle, 6,000 sheep and 800 pigs. There was also vet's accommodation and staff accommodation, including showers inside.
Manure chutes sent waste down to the ground floor.
All the paraphernalia may have gone but this area still evokes vivid memories for the man now in charge of it.
Jimmy Mills, 57, from Beswick but who now lives in New Moston, began working here as a 'slaughterman' in 1980, and has remained here in different roles ever since.
He is now site manager for the site owners Realty Estates.
"Everyone round here knows 'the Abs' he says. "It's iconic, it's a landmark.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
"Even now if you wanted to a order a cab and said 'pick me up at the Abs they'd know where you mean.'
"It's a strange building but that's what makes it absolutely unique.
"I have lots of memories here but thinking back to the days it was 'the Abs' is a bit strange really because so it was so long ago and such a different time."
Now called Riverpark Trading Estate, after the road it sits on - facing Phillips Park just off Alan Turing Way - it's still an operating business site, being used not only by the furniture firm for warehousing, but by other companies for storage and office space, which is available to let.
As we walk into the former lairage block, which now has shelves stacked with flat pack furniture, the word 'Quarantine' is spray painted on one of the huge concrete walls.
At first glance it could be a remnant of the abattoir days. However this is, in fact, we are told, a more recent addition.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Around 14 years ago, as well as it's everyday uses, the site was opened up to film crews.
Creative property consultancy, Space 2, essentially an estate agent for the film and video industry, have been letting it for shoots, with a number of big stars having filmed scenes here.
And it's versatility has seen it become extremely popular as a backdrop for a series of dystopian and gritty car dramas.
Crime drama No Offence, starring Will Mellor and Joanna Scanlan, Curfew with Sean Bean, Cold Call starring Sally Lindsay and Daniel Ryan and Channel 4 series Utopia are among the big name shows to feature scenes shot here.
In the popular Sky drama Cobra, about the government's response to a fictional power crisis, the abattoir's former wholesale market featured as a hospital in the 'red zone' that was left without power and became a makeshift refugee camp.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Stuart Hamilton, Regional Production Manager at Space 2: "Over the past fourteen years, we have worked with our partners across the UK, to facilitate locations and production spaces for countless features, television dramas, commercials and experiential activities.
"Riverpark stands out as one of the most versatile; both in terms of its flexibility and its location.
"It offers unique architecture and an atmosphere, that not only looks great on camera, but offers suitable spaces for even the largest of projects.
"Productions continually find new ways of utilising the buildings, ranging from grittier police series, period dramas, to high concept sci-fi locations."
You can certainly see why more and more TV companies are clamouring to use this space. Every corner you turn on is an architect's dream with stunning examples of both brutalist and modernist design, inside and out.
The former wholesale meat market - nicknamed the Bullring - is probably its centrepiece and what makes it so recognisable from the outside.
(Image: Daily Record)
The 20-sided polygon shaped building has doors, from what were the stalls, leading into a sprawling courtyard in the middle.
The courtyard is the bit in most demand from film crews, we're told.
The names of some of the butchers that used to buy and sell here are still visible on the huge green doors where their vans would reverse up to be loaded and unloaded.
The wholesale meat market used to be connected to the chiller room next to the old slaughtering hall, by a footbridge, which is visible on old aerial photos of the site, however this has now gone.
Only one butcher, Anthony Burns Ltd, and one poultry supplier, K Moore, still operate here and are based on the ground floor of the former slaughtering hall.
However back when there were hundreds of people working for dozens of butchers here, each had office space.
Some of these offices are occupied, including one by Jimmy, who has a huge bank of TV screens in front of his desk showing footage from the CCTV cameras across the site.
However that is one of the few modern touches.
And what a fascinating place it must be to work. It is like stepping back in time with some of the stairwells, carpets, handrails doors and lights being the originals from 1960s.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
In the same building - now know as the Business Centre - is what was originally called the Poultry Hall.
There were around 28 shops in here, half of which sold poultry and the other half other goods connected to the meat trade such as cooked meats and utensils.
However this now resembles something from a zombie thriller having been left deserted for nearly two decades.
A sign for the former Riverpark Café on the ground is still visible. However the paint and plaster around it are crumbling.
When the abattoir closed most of the traders went with it we are told.
Its owners added traditional shop fronts to the meat stalls as part of a plan to turn it into a specialist outlet mall for items such as jewellery.
However that never got off the ground and it has lain empty for some time.
The fire service and police often use it for training exercises we are told.
In fact the police used parts of the site as their base for the 2002 Commonwealth Games given its space and its proximity to the action.
Every lorry or large item entering the stadium had to come here to be searched and checked by sniffer dogs before it was allowed inside.
These days the most frequent visitors, other than occupants, are Manchester City fans, with many using it as car park for home games, including Jimmy, a big Blue, who has a short walk over to see his favourite team.
Lots of people also park outside on Riverpark Road - but many be oblivious to its past, and the treasure trove of history that lies inside.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here. And you can follow us on Facebook here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Pep Guardiola declared 'best ever manager' after Man City win Carabao Cup

Jamie Redknapp believes that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola can be regarded as the best manager ever above Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson .
Praise was heaped on Guardiola after his City side beat Aston Villa 2-1 at Wembley in the final of the Carabao Cup .
The Blues led 2-0 after 30 minutes thanks to goals from Sergio Aguero and Rodri but Mbwana Samatta hit back for Villa before the break .
City dominated the first half but endured plenty of pressure in the second half , only to hold on for another trophy under Guardiola .
Guardiola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ titles , one FA Cup trophy , two Community Shields and now three League Cups .
This latest win at Wembley led to former Tottenham and Liverpool midfielder Redknapp offering Guardiola the ultimate compliment .
`` He knows it 's about the players but he is a sensational manager .
He 's won 24 major trophies .
Wherever he goes , the football that his teams play is a joy to watch , '' Redknapp told Sky Sports .
`` He is a credit to the game .
Since he has come to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on and off the field .
He is a class act .
`` He is an intense manager and he will demand everything at training .
If you are a good footballer , you will want to play for a manager like him .
`` There is no doubt he is one of the greatest , you might say the greatest because for what he has achieved .
Obviously there is Sir Alex Ferguson . ''
Asked if he is the best ever , Redknapp added : `` For the style that his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( he is the best ever ) . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Jamie Redknapp believes that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola can be regarded as the best manager ever above Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson .
Praise was heaped on Guardiola after his City side beat Aston Villa 2-1 at Wembley in the final of the Carabao Cup.
The Blues led 2-0 after 30 minutes thanks to goals from Sergio Aguero and Rodri but Mbwana Samatta hit back for Villa before the break.
City dominated the first half but endured plenty of pressure in the second half, only to hold on for another trophy under Guardiola.
Guardiola has guided City to two Premier League titles, one FA Cup trophy, two Community Shields and now three League Cups.
This latest win at Wembley led to former Tottenham and Liverpool midfielder Redknapp offering Guardiola the ultimate compliment.
"He knows it's about the players but he is a sensational manager. He's won 24 major trophies. Wherever he goes, the football that his teams play is a joy to watch," Redknapp told Sky Sports.
"He is a credit to the game. Since he has come to the Premier League he has done incredible on and off the field. He is a class act.
"He is an intense manager and he will demand everything at training. If you are a good footballer, you will want to play for a manager like him.
"There is no doubt he is one of the greatest, you might say the greatest because for what he has achieved. Obviously there is Sir Alex Ferguson."
Asked if he is the best ever, Redknapp added: "For the style that his team play, I would say yes (he is the best ever)."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Raheem Sterling sets Man City trophy target after Carabao Cup win

Raheem Sterling has challenged his Manchester City teammates to win more trophies this season after beating Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup final .
The victory meant City have won the Carabao Cup for three seasons in a row , and have won the last six domestic trophies on offer as part of a wider run that has returned eight out of the last nine domestic titles to the Etihad .
However , that run is set to end when Liverpool win the Premier League this season , and Sterling admits City 's focus is firmly on the remaining two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hard-fought win over Aston Villa , Sterling told Sky Sports : “ It ’ s always a pleasure to play at Wembley and it feels even better to win it .
It ’ s an area I know well and hopefully it will continue .
“ It was a good performance .
We made it difficult for ourselves at times but we done the job and we were professional at the end .
“ The league was difficult this year .
We won one title so far and we ’ re still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re fully focused and ready to do the business.
” City manager Pep Guardiola and his players have publicly conceded the title to Liverpool , who need just four wins to win their first-ever Premier League .
However , Sterling says there was no team meeting to reassess the aims of the season , and that the team are ready to add to their trophy collection this season .
“ No [ there was n't a meeting ] .
We know as a team when we ’ re not in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a couple more .
We just have to keep focused and that ’ s what we ’ ve done here .
“ It ’ s virtually so hard to do that for three years on the bounce and that ’ s what we done - we just need to keep going and winning trophies .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Raheem Sterling has challenged his Manchester City teammates to win more trophies this season after beating Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup final.
The victory meant City have won the Carabao Cup for three seasons in a row, and have won the last six domestic trophies on offer as part of a wider run that has returned eight out of the last nine domestic titles to the Etihad.
However, that run is set to end when Liverpool win the Premier League this season, and Sterling admits City's focus is firmly on the remaining two competitions they are in.
Reflecting on the hard-fought win over Aston Villa, Sterling told Sky Sports: “It’s always a pleasure to play at Wembley and it feels even better to win it. It’s an area I know well and hopefully it will continue.
“It was a good performance. We made it difficult for ourselves at times but we done the job and we were professional at the end.
“The league was difficult this year. We won one title so far and we’re still in the running for two more so we’re fully focused and ready to do the business.”
City manager Pep Guardiola and his players have publicly conceded the title to Liverpool, who need just four wins to win their first-ever Premier League. However, Sterling says there was no team meeting to reassess the aims of the season, and that the team are ready to add to their trophy collection this season.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“No [there wasn't a meeting]. We know as a team when we’re not in the running for one, there is always a couple more. We just have to keep focused and that’s what we’ve done here.
“It’s virtually so hard to do that for three years on the bounce and that’s what we done - we just need to keep going and winning trophies.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--The heartbreaking story behind Joe Swash's emotional tribute to his dad on Dancing On Ice

Joe Swash skated in tribute to his late father during Sunday Night 's Dancing On Ice semi-final , and viewers were in tears as he told the story behind the performance .
The TV presenter and former EastEnders actor was tearful as he told how his skate song Stars by Manchester band Simply Red had such a special meaning for him and his family .
Joe , 38 , was just 12-years-old when his dad Ricky died from the undiagnosed heart condition Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome ( SADS ) .
The TV star and his pro skating partner Alex Murphy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ITV contest because it was his mum and dad ’ s favourite song and it always conjures childhood memories .
The song was also played at his father 's funeral , and now brings back sad memories for the family , so Joe explained he wanted to give it back to his mum Catherine with a new memory attached to it .
`` You got me bawling with your reasons for skating to Simply Red , love you , my faves , so hope you win , '' said one fan on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful skate , '' complimented another viewer .
Joe and Alex scored 38 out of 40 for their performance , which sent them sailing into next Sunday 's final , and Joe explained how much it meant to him .
`` It was mum and dad 's favourite song , '' he said .
`` It brings back such lovely memories .
Hopefully now my mum can listen to it and not feel so sad . ''
Speaking about his father ’ s death for the first time in 2015 to support a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe recalled how he discovered his mother trying to rouse his father who was breathing but unconscious .
Joe , who played Mickey Miller in EastEnders and won I 'm A Celebrity in 2008 , managed to ring for an ambulance , ran outside and screamed for a neighbour to help .
About two hours later Joe was told his father , a 39-year-old London cabbie , had died in hospital .
SADS , caused by an abnormality in the electrical activity in the cells of the heart , is caused by an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sisters Caisie and Shana were tested for the faulty gene .
Joe , who has a baby boy Rex with his Loose Women presenter girlfriend Stacey Solomon and a son Harry from a previous relationship , also learned basic first aid to be prepared if confronted by another emergency .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Joe Swash skated in tribute to his late father during Sunday Night's Dancing On Ice semi-final, and viewers were in tears as he told the story behind the performance.
The TV presenter and former EastEnders actor was tearful as he told how his skate song Stars by Manchester band Simply Red had such a special meaning for him and his family.
Joe, 38, was just 12-years-old when his dad Ricky died from the undiagnosed heart condition Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS).
The TV star and his pro skating partner Alex Murphy chose Stars to skate to on the ITV contest because it was his mum and dad’s favourite song and it always conjures childhood memories.
(Image: ITV)
The song was also played at his father's funeral, and now brings back sad memories for the family, so Joe explained he wanted to give it back to his mum Catherine with a new memory attached to it.
"You got me bawling with your reasons for skating to Simply Red, love you, my faves, so hope you win," said one fan on Twitter.
"So emotional and such a beautiful skate," complimented another viewer.
Joe and Alex scored 38 out of 40 for their performance, which sent them sailing into next Sunday's final, and Joe explained how much it meant to him.
"It was mum and dad's favourite song," he said.
"It brings back such lovely memories. Hopefully now my mum can listen to it and not feel so sad."
Speaking about his father’s death for the first time in 2015 to support a campaign by the British Heart Foundation, Joe recalled how he discovered his mother trying to rouse his father who was breathing but unconscious.
Joe, who played Mickey Miller in EastEnders and won I'm A Celebrity in 2008, managed to ring for an ambulance, ran outside and screamed for a neighbour to help.
About two hours later Joe was told his father, a 39-year-old London cabbie, had died in hospital.
SADS, caused by an abnormality in the electrical activity in the cells of the heart, is caused by an inherited condition, so Joe and his sisters Caisie and Shana were tested for the faulty gene.
Joe, who has a baby boy Rex with his Loose Women presenter girlfriend Stacey Solomon and a son Harry from a previous relationship, also learned basic first aid to be prepared if confronted by another emergency.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Pep Guardiola makes prediction after 'incredible' Man City achievement

Pep Guardiola believes any team will struggle to reach the level of dominance that his Manchester City side have managed .
Sunday 's victory over Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup final made it eight trophies out of the last nine competitions they have entered , with three Carabao Cups , one FA Cup , two Premier Leagues and two Community Shields won since the beginning of the 2017/18 season .
Liverpool are expected to bring City 's run of domestic trophies to an end when they are crowned Premier League champions this season , but the level of consistency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take something special to outdo their achievements .
Having arrived in England to claims that he would not be able to make City as dominant as Barcelona had been in Spain or Bayern Munich in Germany , even the manager has been surprised at how much success he has had with the Etihad club .
`` I think the fact that we 've won eight of nine is incredible , it 's more remarkable , '' he said .
`` I think it will be so difficult to do it again , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - it 's the consistency .
`` We won eight titles .
When we won the first title here against Arsenal we played 11 comps we won eight of these 11 so it 's a lot .
For this club it 's not just about one title , it 's about every game we play and every title we play for counts and try to win and that is the best thing we can give for this club .
`` Sometimes you win a title and then after can not win a title @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important is everybody knows we have the responsibility to fight and try to win the games and titles and that means a lot . ''

Pep Guardiola believes any team will struggle to reach the level of dominance that his Manchester City side have managed.
Sunday's victory over Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup final made it eight trophies out of the last nine competitions they have entered, with three Carabao Cups, one FA Cup, two Premier Leagues and two Community Shields won since the beginning of the 2017/18 season.
Liverpool are expected to bring City's run of domestic trophies to an end when they are crowned Premier League champions this season, but the level of consistency shown by the Blues means it will take something special to outdo their achievements.
Having arrived in England to claims that he would not be able to make City as dominant as Barcelona had been in Spain or Bayern Munich in Germany, even the manager has been surprised at how much success he has had with the Etihad club.
"I think the fact that we've won eight of nine is incredible, it's more remarkable," he said. "I think it will be so difficult to do it again, not just for ourselves but for our opponents - it's the consistency.
"We won eight titles. When we won the first title here against Arsenal we played 11 comps we won eight of these 11 so it's a lot. For this club it's not just about one title, it's about every game we play and every title we play for counts and try to win and that is the best thing we can give for this club.
"Sometimes you win a title and then after cannot win a title for a long time. What is important is everybody knows we have the responsibility to fight and try to win the games and titles and that means a lot."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Micah Richards on why it means more for Man City's Phil Foden after Carabao Cup final win

Micah Richards believes winning trophies with Manchester City means more to Phil Foden because he is a fan of the club .
The 19-year-old was a surprise inclusion in Pep Guardiola ’ s starting line-up for the Carabao Cup final against Aston Villa , despite only making two starts in the Premier League this season .
City took the lead at Wembley through Sergio Aguero before Rodri made it 2-0 just after the half-hour mark .
And although Samatta reduced the arrears five minutes before the interval , Guardiola ’ s side held on to claim their third straight League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foden is that he is a City fan as well , so it means that much more to him , ” Richards told Sky Sports post-match .
“ The way he talks in his interviews , there is so much emotion going through there .
“ It is hard to get in this team , but slowly he is finding his way .
Bernardo Silva , Silva , De Bruyne in front of him .
Top players .
“ But now I think he needs to show this consistency when he plays and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a spot.
” While fellow pundit Jamie Redknapp added on Foden ’ s display : “ Difficult because when you play in the wide area I think it suits him to play cutting inside on his left-foot .
“ But normally you would see him a midfield three and that is where he would rather play .
“ But he did some nice bits .
His first impact in the game he took it past three or four players and really grew into the game .
“ He was heavily involved in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud of his performance today .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Micah Richards believes winning trophies with Manchester City means more to Phil Foden because he is a fan of the club.
The 19-year-old was a surprise inclusion in Pep Guardiola’s starting line-up for the Carabao Cup final against Aston Villa, despite only making two starts in the Premier League this season.
City took the lead at Wembley through Sergio Aguero before Rodri made it 2-0 just after the half-hour mark.
And although Samatta reduced the arrears five minutes before the interval, Guardiola’s side held on to claim their third straight League Cup.
“What I like about Foden is that he is a City fan as well, so it means that much more to him,” Richards told Sky Sports post-match.
“The way he talks in his interviews, there is so much emotion going through there.
“It is hard to get in this team, but slowly he is finding his way. Bernardo Silva, Silva, De Bruyne in front of him. Top players.
“But now I think he needs to show this consistency when he plays and hopefully next season he can nail down a spot.”
While fellow pundit Jamie Redknapp added on Foden’s display: “Difficult because when you play in the wide area I think it suits him to play cutting inside on his left-foot.
“But normally you would see him a midfield three and that is where he would rather play.
“But he did some nice bits. His first impact in the game he took it past three or four players and really grew into the game.
“He was heavily involved in the Aguero goal. He should be very proud of his performance today.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Manchester United defender Harry Maguire praises David de Gea after Everton draw

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has praised David de Gea following the draw against Everton in the Premier League despite his error in the first-half .
United had the chance to gain ground on Chelsea in the race for a top four finish after Frank Lampard 's side drew against Bournemouth on Saturday .
However , the Reds ' poor record at Goodison Park continued with De Gea 's error proving to be costly after just three minutes .
The Spaniard failed to release the ball and fired straight at Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin which handed Everton an early lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could have snatched all three points in the closing stages but Jordan Pickford denied Odion Ighalo with a fine stop .
It was then De Gea 's turn to make amends with a superb save to keep the scores level and Maguire praised his goalkeeper after the game .
`` It was a great reaction save [ by Jordan Pickford ] , it was an unbelievable chance to win the game - and David pulled off a world class save for us too , '' he told BBC Sport .
Everton did have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ net following the save but it was ruled out by VAR as Gylfi Sigurdsson was judged to have obstructed the United number one .
The decision infuriated the home fans and manager Carlo Ancelotti - who received a red card for his protests - and Maguire sympathised with their frustrations .
He added : `` I understand the reaction , the crowd is emotional but the linesman should put his flag up .
`` We will take the point , we came for three but we dug in .
`` We showed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they scored and deserved to come in level at half time .
`` We dug in deep and if you ca n't win three you take one point . ''

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
Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has praised David de Gea following the draw against Everton in the Premier League despite his error in the first-half.
United had the chance to gain ground on Chelsea in the race for a top four finish after Frank Lampard's side drew against Bournemouth on Saturday.
However, the Reds' poor record at Goodison Park continued with De Gea's error proving to be costly after just three minutes. The Spaniard failed to release the ball and fired straight at Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin which handed Everton an early lead.
United equalised through Bruno Fernandes and could have snatched all three points in the closing stages but Jordan Pickford denied Odion Ighalo with a fine stop.
It was then De Gea's turn to make amends with a superb save to keep the scores level and Maguire praised his goalkeeper after the game.
"It was a great reaction save [by Jordan Pickford], it was an unbelievable chance to win the game - and David pulled off a world class save for us too," he told BBC Sport.
Everton did have the ball in the back of the net following the save but it was ruled out by VAR as Gylfi Sigurdsson was judged to have obstructed the United number one.
The decision infuriated the home fans and manager Carlo Ancelotti - who received a red card for his protests - and Maguire sympathised with their frustrations.
He added: "I understand the reaction, the crowd is emotional but the linesman should put his flag up.
"We will take the point, we came for three but we dug in.
"We showed a great reaction and dominated the game from when they scored and deserved to come in level at half time.
"We dug in deep and if you can't win three you take one point."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--How Phil Foden reacted to starting for Man City in Carabao Cup final

Phil Foden says he could n't wait to walk out at Wembley after learning he would start for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final .
Foden was one of eight changes in the cup final win , and he put in a Man of the Match performance on the right wing .
It was Foden who ran into the back post to cushion Rodri 's pass into the path of Sergio Aguero , who made no mistake in opening the scoring .
He could have had a goal himself , but saw two efforts flash narrowly wide .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunities this season , but was handed his most high-profile start yet for the club in the Carabao Cup final .
And Foden revealed how he was told the news he would start on Saturday as City finalised their tactical plan , when speaking to Sky Sports after the game .
He explained : `` The day before , in training , the manager was working on tactics and I knew I was starting .
I couldn ’ t wait to play .
What an unbelievable day .
`` I have to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept going until the end and they gave us a really good game .
`` When I play , every minute counts , so I try and do my best and I ’ m very proud of my performance today .
Just happy to help the team .
`` You look at players like Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva , so it 's not going to be easy to get into the team .
`` So when I get into the team I have to make the most of it .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team and really enjoying it . ''
City are set to lose their Premier League title to Liverpool , but are still in the Champions League and FA Cup - and Foden insists he is ready to take his chance when called upon .
When asked what he needs to do between now and the end of the season , Foden said : `` What I showed today , just hard work and dedication .
I try and do my best every day and that 's all I can do . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Phil Foden says he couldn't wait to walk out at Wembley after learning he would start for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final.
Foden was one of eight changes in the cup final win, and he put in a Man of the Match performance on the right wing.
It was Foden who ran into the back post to cushion Rodri's pass into the path of Sergio Aguero, who made no mistake in opening the scoring. He could have had a goal himself, but saw two efforts flash narrowly wide.
The youngster has had to wait for his opportunities this season, but was handed his most high-profile start yet for the club in the Carabao Cup final.
And Foden revealed how he was told the news he would start on Saturday as City finalised their tactical plan, when speaking to Sky Sports after the game.
He explained: "The day before, in training, the manager was working on tactics and I knew I was starting. I couldn’t wait to play. What an unbelievable day.
"I have to say fair play to Aston Villa, they kept going until the end and they gave us a really good game.
"When I play, every minute counts, so I try and do my best and I’m very proud of my performance today. Just happy to help the team.
"You look at players like Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva, so it's not going to be easy to get into the team.
"So when I get into the team I have to make the most of it. I'm just happy to play in this team and really enjoying it."
City are set to lose their Premier League title to Liverpool, but are still in the Champions League and FA Cup - and Foden insists he is ready to take his chance when called upon.
When asked what he needs to do between now and the end of the season, Foden said: "What I showed today, just hard work and dedication. I try and do my best every day and that's all I can do."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Holly Willoughby wolf-whistled as she presents Dancing On Ice in a nude dress

Holly Willoughby wowed as she appeared in a skin-tone coloured dress on Dancing On Ice .
The elegant mum-of-three always looks stunning , and she drew compliments and a wolf whistle for her latest look as she appeared rinkside with her co-host Phillip Schofield .
Holly , 39 , drew a whistle from the crowd as she presented the semi-final of the ITV skating contest .
`` Did you see Holly smile when she heard the wolf whistle from the crowd ?
# sheknows # DancingOnIce , '' tweeted one fan .
`` Anyone else hear the wolf whistle when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though , '' admired another viewer .
Fans chatted about the champagne tulle gown on Twitter as the contest unfolded .
`` I think Holly ’ s dress is similar to her skin colour , '' said one .
On Instagram Holly revealed the gown ahead of Sunday night 's show to her 6.4million followers .
`` You look sensational , '' commented another .
And another fan jokingly scolded : `` Theres no need for how stunning this is . ''
Other fans said she looked like a princess in a fairytale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a great place social media can be when the This Morning star made a desperate plea on Friday after her daughter Belle lost her beloved teddy .
But less than an hour after issuing her appeal , Ted was found thanks to the power of social media .
Holly posted an update saying : `` Insta you are amazing ... Ted ’ s been found !
!
!
He had decided to stay on after my birthday weekend away but is now ready to come home ... '' Thank you for all your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge huge thank you to @ sohofarmhouse for finding him !
!
!
! ''
She ended the post : `` Ca n't wait to tell Belle after school ... ''

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Love a bit of cheeky celeb goss? Share your email to get showbiz news, gossip and rumours from the MEN
Holly Willoughby wowed as she appeared in a skin-tone coloured dress on Dancing On Ice.
The elegant mum-of-three always looks stunning, and she drew compliments and a wolf whistle for her latest look as she appeared rinkside with her co-host Phillip Schofield.
Holly, 39, drew a whistle from the crowd as she presented the semi-final of the ITV skating contest .
"Did you see Holly smile when she heard the wolf whistle from the crowd? #sheknows #DancingOnIce," tweeted one fan.
"Anyone else hear the wolf whistle when Holly was talking haha. That dress though," admired another viewer.
Fans chatted about the champagne tulle gown on Twitter as the contest unfolded.
"I think Holly’s dress is similar to her skin colour," said one.
"Holly wearing a skin tone dress," commented another.
On Instagram Holly revealed the gown ahead of Sunday night's show to her 6.4million followers.
(Image: ITV)
"Golden lady," said her Spice Girl fried Emma Bunton.
"OMG looking fabulous," wrote one follower.
"You look sensational," commented another.
And another fan jokingly scolded: "Theres no need for how stunning this is."
Other fans said she looked like a princess in a fairytale.
This week Holly found out what a great place social media can be when the This Morning star made a desperate plea on Friday after her daughter Belle lost her beloved teddy .
But less than an hour after issuing her appeal, Ted was found thanks to the power of social media.
Holly posted an update saying: "Insta you are amazing... Ted’s been found!!! He had decided to stay on after my birthday weekend away but is now ready to come home...
"Thank you for all your help and lovely messages... and a huge huge thank you to @sohofarmhouse for finding him!!!!"
She ended the post: "Can't wait to tell Belle after school..."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Sergio Aguero dismisses injury concerns following Man City's Carabao Cup final win

Sergio Aguero has revealed he is fine despite being substituted due to injury towards the end of Manchester City 's Carabao Cup final victory over Aston Villa .
City have claimed their first trophy of the campaign after defeating Villa 2-1 in a thrilling game at Wembley , winning the trophy for a third consecutive season .
It was Aguero who broke the deadlock , finishing off a great City move by turning in Phil Foden 's deft headed cut-back and Rodri doubled the lead with a powerful header 10 minutes later - though the corner it came from should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credit , Villa fought back to make it a competitive final but were helped by a huge error from John Stones , as he lost his footing and allowed Anwar El Ghazi to run through and set up Mbwana Samatta to head into the top corner .
Villa sought for an equaliser in the second-half but City managed to cling on for glory , though Aguero would limp off the pitch towards the end of the game after picking up a knock .
Thankfully , the striker has revealed it 's nothing serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Argentine told Sky Sports after the match .
`` It was just a kick on my knee but I 'm fine . ''
Midfielder Rodri scored the winning goal to claim his first major honour as a Blue and he has revealed that the victory is a bright spot in a difficult season .
for the club .
`` They score because of a mistake and we get 2-1 at half-time so it was going to be tight the game , at the end as I told you we suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had enough chances to score more goals , '' the Spaniard added .
`` But we 're happy for the team for this season is not easy for us and it is the second title for us , so I 'm very happy . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Sergio Aguero has revealed he is fine despite being substituted due to injury towards the end of Manchester City's Carabao Cup final victory over Aston Villa.
City have claimed their first trophy of the campaign after defeating Villa 2-1 in a thrilling game at Wembley, winning the trophy for a third consecutive season.
It was Aguero who broke the deadlock, finishing off a great City move by turning in Phil Foden's deft headed cut-back and Rodri doubled the lead with a powerful header 10 minutes later - though the corner it came from shouldn't have been awarded.
To their credit, Villa fought back to make it a competitive final but were helped by a huge error from John Stones, as he lost his footing and allowed Anwar El Ghazi to run through and set up Mbwana Samatta to head into the top corner.
Villa sought for an equaliser in the second-half but City managed to cling on for glory, though Aguero would limp off the pitch towards the end of the game after picking up a knock.
Thankfully, the striker has revealed it's nothing serious.
"Yeah, I'm okay," the Argentine told Sky Sports after the match. "It was just a kick on my knee but I'm fine."
Midfielder Rodri scored the winning goal to claim his first major honour as a Blue and he has revealed that the victory is a bright spot in a difficult season. for the club.
"They score because of a mistake and we get 2-1 at half-time so it was going to be tight the game, at the end as I told you we suffered a little bit but I think we had enough chances to score more goals," the Spaniard added.
"But we're happy for the team for this season is not easy for us and it is the second title for us, so I'm very happy."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-01--Coronavirus patient returned to Bury and self-isolated - now all his 'close contacts' are being test

Coronavirus patient returned to Bury and self-isolated - now all his 'close contacts' are being tested

All close contacts of a man from Bury who contracted coronavirus in Italy are being tested for the virus .
The man 'immediately ' self-isolated after returning to Bury and was 'quickly ' tested , Bury council 's director for public health Lesley Jones said .
He has been transferred to a specialist hospital in London .
The Manchester Evening News understands the man flew back to the UK from Milan .
Health officials would n't confirm when he returned , when he was tested or which airport he flew into .
Mrs Jones said the man 'did the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to the UK .
She said : `` The individual returned to Bury from Italy and immediately self-isolated .
`` He was quickly tested and was confirmed ( to have the virus ) .
`` He has been taken to a special centre .
He did the right thing by self isolating .
`` Public Health England have made contact with the contacts in Bury and are following that through .
`` It will be standard practice for close contacts to be tested . ''
The Bury man was one of 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus on Sunday - bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 35 .
Mrs Jones said there was currently 'no question ' of schools in Bury closing , saying the 'risk to the community remains low ' .
She added : `` In the future any decisions will be based on the spread of the virus '' We are obviously planning for if the situation changes , we would be expected to plan for a reasonable worst case scenario .
`` If it becomes more widespread we would move into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come from Public Health England and those decisions would be fed into decisions about school closures , travel advice , large scale gatherings .
`` But we are not there yet . ''
A spokesperson for Bury council earlier said they are working closely with health authorities to ensure that the people of Bury are protected , and kept well informed .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
All close contacts of a man from Bury who contracted coronavirus in Italy are being tested for the virus.
The man 'immediately' self-isolated after returning to Bury and was 'quickly' tested, Bury council's director for public health Lesley Jones said.
He has been transferred to a specialist hospital in London.
The Manchester Evening News understands the man flew back to the UK from Milan .
Health officials wouldn't confirm when he returned, when he was tested or which airport he flew into.
Mrs Jones said the man 'did the right thing' by self isolating on his return to the UK.
She said: "The individual returned to Bury from Italy and immediately self-isolated.
"He was quickly tested and was confirmed (to have the virus).
"He has been taken to a special centre. He did the right thing by self isolating.
"Public Health England have made contact with the contacts in Bury and are following that through.
"It will be standard practice for close contacts to be tested."
The Bury man was one of 12 patients confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday - bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 35.
Mrs Jones said there was currently 'no question' of schools in Bury closing, saying the 'risk to the community remains low'.
She added: "In the future any decisions will be based on the spread of the virus
"We are obviously planning for if the situation changes, we would be expected to plan for a reasonable worst case scenario.
"If it becomes more widespread we would move into the mitigation phase.
"That would come from Public Health England and those decisions would be fed into decisions about school closures, travel advice, large scale gatherings.
"But we are not there yet."
A spokesperson for Bury council earlier said they are working closely with health authorities to ensure that the people of Bury are protected, and kept well informed.