themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Gulliver's Valley Resort announces opening date - look at what's in store

The much-anticipated Gulliver 's Valley Resort has revealed its opening date and given families a glimpse at what 's in store .
Just over an hour 's drive from Manchester , the South Yorkshire attraction opens its gates this Saturday , July 11 .
The new park is the latest addition to the Gulliver 's empire - which also has sites in Warrington , Matlock and Milton Keynes - and spanning 250 acres , it 's the largest project to date .
Designed for families with children aged between two and 13 , Gulliver 's Valley Resort is home to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ park rides including the T-Rex Tower water ride , the Ghostly Galleon pirate ship and the Rocky Ridge Railway .
It features multiple themed areas including Western World , Smugglers Wharf and the Lost World of the Living Dinosaurs .
Visitors can also book short breaks at the site , with accommodation ranging from princess and unicorn suites inside the castle hotel , to Western Cabins and Lost World lodges .
The Sheffield park , which was forced to postpone its planned opening earlier this year due to coronavirus , will be operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slots only .
Due to the ongoing pandemic and social distancing requirements , some parts of the park including the indoor soft play area will open at a later date .
Julie Dalton , managing director of the family-run Gulliver ’ s Theme Park Resorts , said : “ We are so excited to be finally opening Gulliver ’ s Valley to the public .
“ The last few months have been tough to say the least - when we started work on the park , we didn ’ t ever expect to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but I am proud to say our team has risen to the challenge and worked hard to enable us to open , just one month later than we initially planned .
“ Of course , the health and wellbeing of our visitors and our employees really is top priority and so we have made a number of changes to the park to reflect this so that everyone feels comfortable and reassured whilst enjoying a fun and enjoyable day out.
” A number of extra safety measures will be in place at the park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checks on arrival , contactless entry , social distancing measures and a food pre-ordering system .
Face masks are mandatory on all rides , except for children under three .
Julie added : `` Despite the difficult period we ’ re all living in , we ’ re thrilled with how Gulliver ’ s Valley has come together so far .
“ We have had to adapt accordingly to this new state of normal and that has meant a few areas of the park will need to open later than we ’ d @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but we truly believe the magic of Gulliver ’ s is needed now more than ever , and we can ’ t wait to welcome our first customers in very soon.
” Tickets cost £15 each for adults and children and can be booked online .
For seniors the price is £14 , concessionary £11 and children under 90cm go free .
For £89 per person you can buy an annual passport giving you unlimited access to all Gulliver 's theme parks and splash zones for 12 months .

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The much-anticipated Gulliver's Valley Resort has revealed its opening date and given families a glimpse at what's in store.
Just over an hour's drive from Manchester, the South Yorkshire attraction opens its gates this Saturday, July 11.
The new park is the latest addition to the Gulliver's empire - which also has sites in Warrington, Matlock and Milton Keynes - and spanning 250 acres, it's the largest project to date.
Designed for families with children aged between two and 13, Gulliver's Valley Resort is home to roaring dinosaurs, indoor attractions and theme park rides including the T-Rex Tower water ride, the Ghostly Galleon pirate ship and the Rocky Ridge Railway.
It features multiple themed areas including Western World, Smugglers Wharf and the Lost World of the Living Dinosaurs.
Sign up to our Manchester Family newsletter Keep up to date with the biggest and best stories, including suggestions for family days out and ways to keep the kids entertained. It's completely free to sign up; all you have to do is fill in your details at the top of any 'Family & Kids' story, including this one. Alternatively you can sign up here.
Visitors can also book short breaks at the site, with accommodation ranging from princess and unicorn suites inside the castle hotel, to Western Cabins and Lost World lodges.
The Sheffield park, which was forced to postpone its planned opening earlier this year due to coronavirus, will be operating on a limited capacity, with pre-booked slots only.
(Image: Gulliver's Valley Resort)
Due to the ongoing pandemic and social distancing requirements, some parts of the park including the indoor soft play area will open at a later date.
Julie Dalton, managing director of the family-run Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “We are so excited to be finally opening Gulliver’s Valley to the public.
“The last few months have been tough to say the least - when we started work on the park, we didn’t ever expect to be faced with a global pandemic, but I am proud to say our team has risen to the challenge and worked hard to enable us to open, just one month later than we initially planned.
(Image: Gulliver's Valley Resort)
“Of course, the health and wellbeing of our visitors and our employees really is top priority and so we have made a number of changes to the park to reflect this so that everyone feels comfortable and reassured whilst enjoying a fun and enjoyable day out.”
A number of extra safety measures will be in place at the park, including mandatory advanced booking, temperature checks on arrival, contactless entry, social distancing measures and a food pre-ordering system.
Face masks are mandatory on all rides, except for children under three.
Julie added: "Despite the difficult period we’re all living in, we’re thrilled with how Gulliver’s Valley has come together so far.
(Image: Gulliver's Valley Resort)
“We have had to adapt accordingly to this new state of normal and that has meant a few areas of the park will need to open later than we’d hoped while we await further government guidance, but we truly believe the magic of Gulliver’s is needed now more than ever, and we can’t wait to welcome our first customers in very soon.”
Tickets cost £15 each for adults and children and can be booked online. For seniors the price is £14, concessionary £11 and children under 90cm go free.
For £89 per person you can buy an annual passport giving you unlimited access to all Gulliver's theme parks and splash zones for 12 months.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Man United can break incredible Premier League record against Aston Villa

Manchester United know nothing other than a win will do as they prepare to face Aston Villa in their next Premier League fixture on Thursday night .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side are currently unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions and know another positive result is needed if they are to keep their hopes of a top-four finish alive .
Victory for Chelsea on Tuesday lifted them up to third in the league , while Leicester 's draw with Arsenal saw them drop down to fourth with a four point lead over United .
A win for United at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them up to fifth regardless of other results this week , and would draw Solskjaer 's side to within just one point of The Foxes .
If a place in next year 's Champions League was n't motivation enough United also have an extra incentive to secure victory as they chase an incredible Premier League scoring record .
That is because United are looking to become the first team in Premier League history to win four consecutive matches by a margin of 3+ goals when they face Aston Villa this week .
United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Sheffield United two weeks ago thanks to a hat-trick from Anthony Martial , while Mason Greenwood and Bruno Fernandes netted in a 3-0 away win at Brighton last week .
United 's 5-2 win over Bournemouth at the weekend was another win by such a margin and another irresistible attacking display this week will earn a place in the record books .
United are unbeaten in their last 20 Premier League away games against Aston Villa ( W13 D7 ) , since a 1-3 loss on the opening day of the 1995-96 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unbeaten away run one team has had against another in top-flight history .

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Manchester United know nothing other than a win will do as they prepare to face Aston Villa in their next Premier League fixture on Thursday night.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side are currently unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions and know another positive result is needed if they are to keep their hopes of a top-four finish alive.
Victory for Chelsea on Tuesday lifted them up to third in the league, while Leicester's draw with Arsenal saw them drop down to fourth with a four point lead over United.
A win for United at Villa Park on Thursday night will lift them up to fifth regardless of other results this week, and would draw Solskjaer's side to within just one point of The Foxes.
If a place in next year's Champions League wasn't motivation enough United also have an extra incentive to secure victory as they chase an incredible Premier League scoring record.
That is because United are looking to become the first team in Premier League history to win four consecutive matches by a margin of 3+ goals when they face Aston Villa this week.
United began the streak with a 3-0 win over Sheffield United two weeks ago thanks to a hat-trick from Anthony Martial, while Mason Greenwood and Bruno Fernandes netted in a 3-0 away win at Brighton last week.
United's 5-2 win over Bournemouth at the weekend was another win by such a margin and another irresistible attacking display this week will earn a place in the record books.
United are unbeaten in their last 20 Premier League away games against Aston Villa (W13 D7), since a 1-3 loss on the opening day of the 1995-96 season. It’s the longest unbeaten away run one team has had against another in top-flight history.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Pundits make their Man City vs Newcastle United predictions

Manchester City will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways on Wednesday when they take on Newcastle United .
City followed up their impressive 4-0 victory over the new Premier League champions Liverpool with a shock 1-0 defeat at Southampton on Sunday , after being unable to find the back of the net despite having 25 shots on goal .
It was the Blues ' ninth defeat of the season and no doubt stung the players who will now be looking to come back with a vengeance when they face the Magpies .
Here 's how the pundits think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City striker Gabriel Jesus is good , but he 's not as good as Sergio Aguero .
`` Of the two , Jesus is probably better player outside the box but the Argentina striker might have made the difference for City in Sunday 's defeat by Southampton because he is so deadly in front of goal .
`` City desperately need Aguero to be back fit if they are to go all the way in the Champions League this season , because there is just no comparison between him and Jesus when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do n't think it will matter too much against Newcastle , mind .
City will create a lot of chances , like they did against Saints and I do n't see Steve Bruce 's side keeping them out . ''
`` Manchester City came crashing down to earth with a bang following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Southampton at St Mary ’ s Stadium .
They gave Liverpool a hiding on Thursday and then followed up with a chastening defeat to Southampton .
`` Newcastle are unbeaten in their last six Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their points total of last season while securing a top-half finish along the way .
United are another team with very little , other than pride , to play for , whereas City are still involved in both the FA Cup and Champions League and I think this could well mean we ’ ll see a reaction from Pep Guardiola ’ s men at the Etihad . ''
`` How on earth did Manchester City not beat Southampton ?
It was a massive result for Southampton but they got away with it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It is great to see the pressure off Newcastle .
I have always been a fan of Steve Bruce .
He wants to play two up front but the modern way is three up top or one in behind .
Great coaches end up with great players and they can adjust .
Steve Bruce has worked wonders with a bit of both .
`` Newcastle have been battling hard for survival and they have completed it , but there is no pressure after the FA Cup match between these two .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tie , but how much have Man City missed Sergio Aguero ?
Gabriel Jesus can not buy a goal , but David Silva and Bernardo Silva are seriously talented players .
`` When Kevin De Bruyne is left out , what a difference he makes to the team , although he sometimes can so easily contribute off the bench .
Surely Jesus will get an opportunity to score more goals in this one .
It will be fairly convincing victory for Man City . ''

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Manchester City will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways on Wednesday when they take on Newcastle United.
City followed up their impressive 4-0 victory over the new Premier League champions Liverpool with a shock 1-0 defeat at Southampton on Sunday, after being unable to find the back of the net despite having 25 shots on goal.
It was the Blues' ninth defeat of the season and no doubt stung the players who will now be looking to come back with a vengeance when they face the Magpies.
Here's how the pundits think the game will go...
Mark Lawrenson, BBC
"Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus is good, but he's not as good as Sergio Aguero.
"Of the two, Jesus is probably better player outside the box but the Argentina striker might have made the difference for City in Sunday's defeat by Southampton because he is so deadly in front of goal.
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"City desperately need Aguero to be back fit if they are to go all the way in the Champions League this season, because there is just no comparison between him and Jesus when it comes to guile and finishing.
"I don't think it will matter too much against Newcastle, mind. City will create a lot of chances, like they did against Saints and I don't see Steve Bruce's side keeping them out."
Prediction: City 3-0 Newcastle
Michael Owen, BetVictor
"Manchester City came crashing down to earth with a bang following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium. They gave Liverpool a hiding on Thursday and then followed up with a chastening defeat to Southampton.
"Newcastle are unbeaten in their last six Premier League matches and are looking like beating their points total of last season while securing a top-half finish along the way. United are another team with very little, other than pride, to play for, whereas City are still involved in both the FA Cup and Champions League and I think this could well mean we’ll see a reaction from Pep Guardiola’s men at the Etihad."
Prediction: City win by two goals.
Charlie Nicholas, Sky Sports
"How on earth did Manchester City not beat Southampton? It was a massive result for Southampton but they got away with it. Alex McCarthy had a fabulous game.
"It is great to see the pressure off Newcastle. I have always been a fan of Steve Bruce. He wants to play two up front but the modern way is three up top or one in behind. Great coaches end up with great players and they can adjust. Steve Bruce has worked wonders with a bit of both.
"Newcastle have been battling hard for survival and they have completed it, but there is no pressure after the FA Cup match between these two. We saw what happened in the FA Cup tie, but how much have Man City missed Sergio Aguero? Gabriel Jesus cannot buy a goal, but David Silva and Bernardo Silva are seriously talented players.
"When Kevin De Bruyne is left out, what a difference he makes to the team, although he sometimes can so easily contribute off the bench. Surely Jesus will get an opportunity to score more goals in this one. It will be fairly convincing victory for Man City."
Prediction: City 4-0 Newcastle


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Latest plans show major transformation of Bolton town centre

Major plans to change the face of Bolton town centre have been revised ahead of a key decision by the council this week – but heritage guardians stand firmly opposed to the “ extravagant ” design , describing it as a missed opportunity .
The planning committee is set to vote on plans to demolish Crompton Place shopping centre to make way for new retail , dining and office space , as well as 200 homes , a hotel and new pedestrian walkways leading to Victoria Square .
The proposals have been revised ahead of Thursday ’ s virtual meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and District Civic Trust , which both objected to the initial design describing it as “ overpowering ” .
The top floors of the buildings facing the town hall have been set back by up to nine metres at some points , creating terraces above Victoria Square .
Historic England has now written to Bolton Council confirming that it would no longer offer an objection to the application after the amendments were made .
But Richard Shirres , acting chairman of Bolton and District Civic Trust , stands firmly opposed to scheme and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press pause ” , consult on concepts for the square and propose a more “ sustainable ” design .
He said : “ For Victoria Square , this is a ‘ making-a-statement ’ design , where the Town Hall and Cenotaph are rendered subservient instead of being the centrepiece .
“ This scheme has not striven to integrate with the square , but to confront it .
“ Despite some change , the Civic Trust still regards the appearance as over-sized and too near .
“ But this is not simply impacting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heritage and throwing away an opportunity of civic betterment .
“ Fundamentally , it is also an extravagant design , with storey heights around 12 per cent greater than need , incurring more energy in perpetuity , with no evident optimization of natural lighting and with a paltry renewables ’ ambition .
“ It does not look , to the Civic Trust , like excellence.
” Bolton and District Civic Trust put forward its own alternative proposal to redevelopment plans for Crompton Place shopping centre back in June .
The trust welcomed proposals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading to the town hall but said it should be wider and lined with “ living green walls ” .
It also suggests that twin “ sanctuary ” gardens , which could feature fountains , trees and seating , should be created on either side of the war memorial .
Mr Shirres added : “ In June , it was 38°C in the Arctic Circle .
We have a climate emergency .
“ Greater Manchester is signed up to new commercial buildings being net zero carbon by 2028 .
“ New development needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 21st century .
“ So too Victoria Square – this core public space should be considered now , remodelled with garden islands and greater space , so to be climate adapted.
” The planning committee meeting will be held via video conference on Thursday at 2pm .
It can be viewed online by visiting www.bolton.gov.uk .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joseph Timan, Seamus McDonnell)

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Major plans to change the face of Bolton town centre have been revised ahead of a key decision by the council this week – but heritage guardians stand firmly opposed to the “extravagant” design, describing it as a missed opportunity.
The planning committee is set to vote on plans to demolish Crompton Place shopping centre to make way for new retail, dining and office space, as well as 200 homes, a hotel and new pedestrian walkways leading to Victoria Square.
The proposals have been revised ahead of Thursday’s virtual meeting following feedback by Historic England and Bolton and District Civic Trust, which both objected to the initial design describing it as “overpowering”.
The top floors of the buildings facing the town hall have been set back by up to nine metres at some points, creating terraces above Victoria Square.
Historic England has now written to Bolton Council confirming that it would no longer offer an objection to the application after the amendments were made.
But Richard Shirres, acting chairman of Bolton and District Civic Trust, stands firmly opposed to scheme and is calling on the council to “press pause”, consult on concepts for the square and propose a more “sustainable” design.
He said: “For Victoria Square, this is a ‘making-a-statement’ design, where the Town Hall and Cenotaph are rendered subservient instead of being the centrepiece.
“This scheme has not striven to integrate with the square, but to confront it.
“Despite some change, the Civic Trust still regards the appearance as over-sized and too near.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
“But this is not simply impacting on our ‘jewel in the crown’ heritage and throwing away an opportunity of civic betterment.
“Fundamentally, it is also an extravagant design, with storey heights around 12 per cent greater than need, incurring more energy in perpetuity, with no evident optimization of natural lighting and with a paltry renewables’ ambition.
“It does not look, to the Civic Trust, like excellence.”
Bolton and District Civic Trust put forward its own alternative proposal to redevelopment plans for Crompton Place shopping centre back in June.
The trust welcomed proposals for an avenue between the new blocks leading to the town hall but said it should be wider and lined with “living green walls”.
It also suggests that twin “sanctuary” gardens, which could feature fountains, trees and seating, should be created on either side of the war memorial.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
Mr Shirres added: “In June, it was 38°C in the Arctic Circle. We have a climate emergency.
“Greater Manchester is signed up to new commercial buildings being net zero carbon by 2028.
“New development needs to be climate ready – fit for the 21st century.
“So too Victoria Square – this core public space should be considered now, remodelled with garden islands and greater space, so to be climate adapted.”
The planning committee meeting will be held via video conference on Thursday at 2pm. It can be viewed online by visiting www.bolton.gov.uk.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Scientists write to WHO over potential 'airborne transmission' of coronavirus

A group of 239 scientists have written an open letter to the World Health Organisation asking officials to recognise the possibility of airborne transmission of Covid-19 .
The World Health Organisation ( WHO ) has acknowledged there is “ emerging evidence ” that coronavirus could be spread through particles in the air .
Professor Benedetta Allegranzi , technical lead for infection prevention and control , said the possibility of airborne transmission in “ crowded , closed , poorly ventilated ” settings could not be ruled out .
Current guidelines from the WHO focus on the virus being spread primarily through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which are expelled when an infected person coughs , sneezes or speaks .
The Geneva-based agency advises precautions to avoid these droplets , such as social distancing and regular hand washing .
Dr David Nabarro , a special envoy to the WHO on coronavirus , said that while airborne transmission was “ certainly part of the puzzle ” , it was not the main route of transmission .
“ The major way in which that this virus is transmitted is through droplets which come out when you cough , sneeze or even shout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Radio 4 Today programme .
“ But there does seem to be the possibility that very small particles containing virus can move further .
“ It is certainly part of the puzzle .
The key question is just how important is it .
“ Right now we think it is not the major means of transmission .
The major means of transmission is droplets , which is why we talk about one to two metres distance as being the key thing to avoid spread.
” Published in the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health officials to update guidance to include measures which would mitigate the risk of airborne transmission .
The group of experts outline studies which they say suggests coronavirus can spread through smaller particles that linger in the air .
While hand washing and social distancing are appropriate , the signatories say these measures are “ insufficient ” in providing protection from “ virus-carrying respiratory microdroplets ” released into the air by those with the virus .
According to the group , measures that should be taken include providing sufficient ventilation , to minimise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly on public transport .
When asked about the letter during a press briefing , Prof Allegranzi said officials had been in discussions with the letter ’ s signatories .
“ We acknowledge that there is emerging evidence in this field , as in all other fields , regarding the Covid-19 virus and pandemic , ” she told reporters .
“ And therefore , we believe that we have to be open to this evidence and understand its implications regarding the modes of transmission , and also regarding the precautions that need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airborne transmission could not be ruled out in certain conditions , the evidence was not “ definitive ” and needed to continue to be gathered .

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A group of 239 scientists have written an open letter to the World Health Organisation asking officials to recognise the possibility of airborne transmission of Covid-19.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has acknowledged there is “emerging evidence” that coronavirus could be spread through particles in the air.
Professor Benedetta Allegranzi, technical lead for infection prevention and control, said the possibility of airborne transmission in “crowded, closed, poorly ventilated” settings could not be ruled out.
Current guidelines from the WHO focus on the virus being spread primarily through droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks.
The Geneva-based agency advises precautions to avoid these droplets, such as social distancing and regular hand washing.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
Dr David Nabarro, a special envoy to the WHO on coronavirus, said that while airborne transmission was “certainly part of the puzzle”, it was not the main route of transmission.
“The major way in which that this virus is transmitted is through droplets which come out when you cough, sneeze or even shout,” he told the BBC's Radio 4 Today programme.
“But there does seem to be the possibility that very small particles containing virus can move further.
“It is certainly part of the puzzle. The key question is just how important is it.
“Right now we think it is not the major means of transmission. The major means of transmission is droplets, which is why we talk about one to two metres distance as being the key thing to avoid spread.”
Published in the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal, the letter’s signatories call on health officials to update guidance to include measures which would mitigate the risk of airborne transmission.
(Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)
The group of experts outline studies which they say suggests coronavirus can spread through smaller particles that linger in the air.
While hand washing and social distancing are appropriate, the signatories say these measures are “insufficient” in providing protection from “virus-carrying respiratory microdroplets” released into the air by those with the virus.
According to the group, measures that should be taken include providing sufficient ventilation, to minimise recirculating air, and avoiding overcrowding, particularly on public transport.
When asked about the letter during a press briefing, Prof Allegranzi said officials had been in discussions with the letter’s signatories.
“We acknowledge that there is emerging evidence in this field, as in all other fields, regarding the Covid-19 virus and pandemic,” she told reporters.
“And therefore, we believe that we have to be open to this evidence and understand its implications regarding the modes of transmission, and also regarding the precautions that need to be taken.”
She added that while airborne transmission could not be ruled out in certain conditions, the evidence was not “definitive” and needed to continue to be gathered.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Ethan Laird arrives at Man United training ahead of Aston Villa fixture

Man Utd promoted Ethan Laird to first-team training last week and the youngster is at Carrington ahead of the Aston Villa game Ethan Laird is among the players to have arrived for Manchester United training on Wednesday as the squad prepare for tomorrow 's trip to Aston Villa .
The 18-year-old defender was promoted to first-team training last week , with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer short of numbers at the back due to injuries to Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones .
Right-back Laird has made two senior appearances in the Europa League this season , playing the full game in Astana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 4-0 thrashing of AZ Alkmaar at Old Trafford .
United head to Villa Park tomorrow night aiming to make it 17 games unbeaten in all competitions , but Solskjaer has told his side they might have to win all five remaining Premier League games to make sure of Champions League qualification .
`` If you win every single [ game ] we ’ re in the top four .
We can not rely on help from anyone else .
We have to do it ourselves and go into next season , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press conference .
See pictures of the squad 's arrival at Carrington below - pictures by Eamonn and James Clarke .

Man Utd promoted Ethan Laird to first-team training last week and the youngster is at Carrington ahead of the Aston Villa game
Ethan Laird is among the players to have arrived for Manchester United training on Wednesday as the squad prepare for tomorrow's trip to Aston Villa.
The 18-year-old defender was promoted to first-team training last week, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer short of numbers at the back due to injuries to Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones.
Right-back Laird has made two senior appearances in the Europa League this season, playing the full game in Astana and then appearing for 22 minutes during the 4-0 thrashing of AZ Alkmaar at Old Trafford.
United head to Villa Park tomorrow night aiming to make it 17 games unbeaten in all competitions, but Solskjaer has told his side they might have to win all five remaining Premier League games to make sure of Champions League qualification.
"If you win every single [game] we’re in the top four. We cannot rely on help from anyone else. We have to do it ourselves and go into next season," the United boss said at his pre-match press conference.
See pictures of the squad's arrival at Carrington below - pictures by Eamonn and James Clarke.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Five years since promise that vile Rochdale sex groomers would be deported

Immigration enforcement officials have moved to finally remove at least one of three members of the Rochdale sex grooming gang from the UK , the M.E.N .
has learned .
But for now the trio of convicted abusers remain in Rochdale .
Adil Khan , Qari Abdul Rauf and Abdul Aziz - all taxi drivers who preyed on vulnerable school-age girls - lost their appeal against deportation two years but remain in the UK .
The process of removing them began in 2015 .
The M.E.N .
has learned that enforcement officials have focused on one of the men in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported he had bumped into one of his victims in Asda in the town .
But it is believed all three remain in Rochdale , prompting the town 's MP Tony Lloyd to hold a meeting with Home Secretary Priti Patel to urge her to act .
The Home Office began the process of removing the men ’ s British citizenship in July 2015 to pave the way for their deportation but they challenged the move , saying it breached their human rights and the rights of their children .
They lost their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 2018 but it is believed they remain in Rochdale .
The M.E.N .
is aware of correspondence from the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Agency last month which revealed officials were collating information concerning the deportation of one of the trio , Adil Khan .
It is not clear why the correspondence failed to mention the other two men .
However , a few weeks before the correspondence the M.E.N .
reported how one terrified victim of the grooming gang revealed how her heart 'stopped beating ' when she bumped into her freed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She ran from the supermarket in tears and reported Adil Khan to the authorities as he was with another young child .
Now a young woman , she saw Khan , 50 , with the child in an aisle of Asda superstore in Rochdale town centre .
She told a friend : `` Oh my God , he 's been in Asda .
I 've never been so scared in all my life .
I feel like my heart just stopped beating . ''
She was outraged that Khan and two other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite losing their appeal against deportation back to their native Pakistan two years ago .
Former taxi driver Khan , nick-named Billy , betrayed his wife when he started a relationship with the school-age girl just a few weeks after his wife had delivered their first child .
He got his victim , who thought he was her boyfriend , pregnant when she had just turned 13 and also trafficked a second girl , 15 , to other abusers , using violence when she complained .
Khan , of Oswald Street in Rochdale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2012 but was released in 2016 .
A jury convicted him of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child .
He was ordered to sign the sex offenders ' register for life .
Although he was released from prison in 2016 , he remained out on licence but that sentence has now elapsed .
Taxi driver Abdul Aziz , of Armstrong Hurst Close , Rochdale , was cleared of two counts of rape but was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leeds and Bradford and was paid by the stream of men who used the girls for sex , getting £40 for each introduction .
Known as Master Aziz or Tariq , the married father-of-three , now 49 , kept a stash of condoms in his taxi .
He struck up a business relationship with the young girl that the crown said was part of the plot – she would find him new girls and he would take them to the sex parties .
He was jailed for nine years after he was convicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sexual activity with a child .
Taxi driver and Muslim preacher Abdul Rauf , now 51 , of Darley Road , Rochdale , was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child .
Like some of his co-defendants , he opted to ‘ affirm ’ that he would tell the truth – rather than swear on the Koran in court .
The father-of five worked as a qari , reading the Koran for the congregation at Rochdale ’ s Bilal mosque .
He claimed to be deeply religious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the post to earn a better wage for his growing family .
In fact , he was sacked by the mosque because of poor time-keeping .
In court , he was constantly praying under his breath in the dock , to the annoyance of his co-defendants , one of whom punched him .
He wept when he admitted having sex with a girl in his VW Sharan taxi .
It had been a ‘ big mistake ’ , he said , claiming the girl looked ‘ maybe 30 ’ .
Another girl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told the jury she had sex with Rauf 20 or 30 times .
Under cross-examination he appeared to feign a collapse .
He was jailed for six years after being convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child .
Khan , Qari Abdul Rauf and Abdul Aziz are believed to be still residing in Rochdale despite losing their appeal against the Home Office ruling in 2018 .
The young woman who bumped into Khan - who can not be named as a victim of a sex crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drama about the scandal Three Girls - confided in former GMP detective Maggie Oliver who worked on the police investigation but later resigned in disgust at how victims were treated .
She told the M.E.N : `` It 's outrageous .
It 's two years since they lost their case .
This for me is n't justice and I know the victims themselves do n't see it as justice and nor do the public .
They look at it and say 'what 's going on ? '
I feel the same way .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get answers to these questions and get things moving .
Most people get disillusioned .
It 's a joke .
They are twirling the system .
This is another example of how the criminal justice system is failing victims . ''
The trio were among nine men mostly Pakistani heritage men convicted and jailed in 2012 over a catalogue of serious sex offences against five vulnerable victims in Rochdale and Heywood where young white girls were plied with drink , abused and then shared with other abusers at parties held across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lloyd has spoken to the Home Secretary Priti Patel to urge her to ensure the three men can no longer bump into their victims and to finally deport them .
In a follow-up letter to her , Mr Lloyd wrote : `` I am writing following the recent telephone meeting we had concerning the Rochdale Grooming Gang .
`` I very much welcome your own commitment to making sure that the deportation process is one that the public can have confidence in and that the Rochdale Groomers and others in a similar position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law , including , where appropriate , deportation .
`` I also raised along with ( deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester ) Bev Hughes , the fact that the groomers are seemingly free to roam the streets of Rochdale with the capacity to chance upon their victims .
I know you would agree that this would be intolerable but I must ask what practical steps can be taken to prevent this and to restrict the freedom of the Groomers to behave in this way.
” The Home Office refuses to disclose why the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A spokesperson said : `` Foreign national offenders should be in no doubt of our determination to remove them , and since 2010 we have removed more than 53,000 criminals .
`` We are determined to end the abhorrent crime of child sexual exploitation , and will later this year set out a first of its kind national strategy to respond to all forms of child sexual abuse.
” Priti Patel has promised to publish a report into the 'characteristics ' of sex grooming gangs later this year .
Announcing this in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these sickening child sex abuse groups have told me how they were let down by the state in the name of political correctness .
`` What happened to these children remains one of the biggest stains on our country ’ s conscience .
It is shameful .
`` I am determined to deliver justice for victims and ensure something like this can never happen again . ''

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Immigration enforcement officials have moved to finally remove at least one of three members of the Rochdale sex grooming gang from the UK, the M.E.N. has learned.
But for now the trio of convicted abusers remain in Rochdale.
Adil Khan, Qari Abdul Rauf and Abdul Aziz - all taxi drivers who preyed on vulnerable school-age girls - lost their appeal against deportation two years but remain in the UK.
The process of removing them began in 2015.
The M.E.N. has learned that enforcement officials have focused on one of the men in particular, Adil Khan, after we reported he had bumped into one of his victims in Asda in the town.
But it is believed all three remain in Rochdale, prompting the town's MP Tony Lloyd to hold a meeting with Home Secretary Priti Patel to urge her to act.
The Home Office began the process of removing the men’s British citizenship in July 2015 to pave the way for their deportation but they challenged the move, saying it breached their human rights and the rights of their children.
They lost their case at the Court of Appeal in August 2018 but it is believed they remain in Rochdale.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The M.E.N. is aware of correspondence from the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Agency last month which revealed officials were collating information concerning the deportation of one of the trio, Adil Khan.
It is not clear why the correspondence failed to mention the other two men.
However, a few weeks before the correspondence the M.E.N. reported how one terrified victim of the grooming gang revealed how her heart 'stopped beating' when she bumped into her freed abuser Adil Khan while shopping in Asda.
She ran from the supermarket in tears and reported Adil Khan to the authorities as he was with another young child.
Now a young woman, she saw Khan, 50, with the child in an aisle of Asda superstore in Rochdale town centre.
She told a friend: "Oh my God, he's been in Asda. I've never been so scared in all my life. I feel like my heart just stopped beating."
She was outraged that Khan and two other members of the gang remain in Rochdale despite losing their appeal against deportation back to their native Pakistan two years ago.
(Image: GMP)
Former taxi driver Khan, nick-named Billy, betrayed his wife when he started a relationship with the school-age girl just a few weeks after his wife had delivered their first child.
He got his victim, who thought he was her boyfriend, pregnant when she had just turned 13 and also trafficked a second girl, 15, to other abusers, using violence when she complained.
Khan, of Oswald Street in Rochdale, was jailed for eight years in 2012 but was released in 2016. A jury convicted him of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.
He was ordered to sign the sex offenders' register for life.
Although he was released from prison in 2016, he remained out on licence but that sentence has now elapsed.
Taxi driver Abdul Aziz, of Armstrong Hurst Close, Rochdale, was cleared of two counts of rape but was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.
He ferried the girls as far as Leeds and Bradford and was paid by the stream of men who used the girls for sex, getting £40 for each introduction.
Known as Master Aziz or Tariq, the married father-of-three, now 49, kept a stash of condoms in his taxi.
He struck up a business relationship with the young girl that the crown said was part of the plot – she would find him new girls and he would take them to the sex parties.
He was jailed for nine years after he was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.
Taxi driver and Muslim preacher Abdul Rauf, now 51, of Darley Road, Rochdale, was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.
Like some of his co-defendants, he opted to ‘affirm’ that he would tell the truth – rather than swear on the Koran in court.
The father-of five worked as a qari, reading the Koran for the congregation at Rochdale’s Bilal mosque.
He claimed to be deeply religious and insisted in court that he only left the post to earn a better wage for his growing family.
In fact, he was sacked by the mosque because of poor time-keeping.
In court, he was constantly praying under his breath in the dock, to the annoyance of his co-defendants, one of whom punched him.
He wept when he admitted having sex with a girl in his VW Sharan taxi. It had been a ‘big mistake’, he said, claiming the girl looked ‘maybe 30’. Another girl, the prosecution’s main witness, told the jury she had sex with Rauf 20 or 30 times.
Under cross-examination he appeared to feign a collapse.
He was jailed for six years after being convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.
Khan, Qari Abdul Rauf and Abdul Aziz are believed to be still residing in Rochdale despite losing their appeal against the Home Office ruling in 2018.
The young woman who bumped into Khan - who cannot be named as a victim of a sex crime but who was Ruby in the BBC drama about the scandal Three Girls - confided in former GMP detective Maggie Oliver who worked on the police investigation but later resigned in disgust at how victims were treated.
Oliver turned whistleblower and campaigner.
She told the M.E.N: "It's outrageous. It's two years since they lost their case. This for me isn't justice and I know the victims themselves don't see it as justice and nor do the public. They look at it and say 'what's going on?' I feel the same way. It's such an overwhelmingly draining process to get answers to these questions and get things moving. Most people get disillusioned. It's a joke. They are twirling the system. This is another example of how the criminal justice system is failing victims."
(Image: MEN)
The trio were among nine men mostly Pakistani heritage men convicted and jailed in 2012 over a catalogue of serious sex offences against five vulnerable victims in Rochdale and Heywood where young white girls were plied with drink, abused and then shared with other abusers at parties held across the north of England.
Rochdale MP Tony Lloyd has spoken to the Home Secretary Priti Patel to urge her to ensure the three men can no longer bump into their victims and to finally deport them.
In a follow-up letter to her, Mr Lloyd wrote: "I am writing following the recent telephone meeting we had concerning the Rochdale Grooming Gang.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
"I very much welcome your own commitment to making sure that the deportation process is one that the public can have confidence in and that the Rochdale Groomers and others in a similar position can expect the full weight of the law, including, where appropriate, deportation.
"I also raised along with (deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester) Bev Hughes, the fact that the groomers are seemingly free to roam the streets of Rochdale with the capacity to chance upon their victims. I know you would agree that this would be intolerable but I must ask what practical steps can be taken to prevent this and to restrict the freedom of the Groomers to behave in this way.”
The Home Office refuses to disclose why the three men have not yet been deported.
A spokesperson said: "Foreign national offenders should be in no doubt of our determination to remove them, and since 2010 we have removed more than 53,000 criminals.
"We are determined to end the abhorrent crime of child sexual exploitation, and will later this year set out a first of its kind national strategy to respond to all forms of child sexual abuse.”
Priti Patel has promised to publish a report into the 'characteristics' of sex grooming gangs later this year.
Announcing this in May, she said: "Victims of these sickening child sex abuse groups have told me how they were let down by the state in the name of political correctness.
"What happened to these children remains one of the biggest stains on our country’s conscience. It is shameful.
"I am determined to deliver justice for victims and ensure something like this can never happen again."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--The Real Schools Guide: Your secondary school

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themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--How government blindfolded frontline public health experts fighting Covid’s next phase

The principles behind this phase of the Covid response are not new .
Public health departments across the country - at one time experts hidden in the NHS , now back in local authorities - follow the granular movement of a contagious disease in their area and stamp on it , as they have done for many decades .
In this case it might mean a coronavirus outbreak in a school , factory or care home leading to the building being quickly closed down , a deep clean carried out and everyone told to stay at home .
Or , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could mean spotting that an uptick in infections has suddenly appeared in a corner of their area ’ s map - around some particular streets , say .
In theory that might then lead to people in that area being asked to self isolate , aimed at containing the spread to the wider population .
Perhaps local bars and playgrounds would shut down temporarily , with public health messaging targeted at the community in question .
The science behind it is precise but the principle isn ’ t new .
Speak to anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and they will tell you the same thing .
This is what they do with food poisoning outbreaks , with a spike in sexually transmitted diseases , with measles or TB .
If you ’ ve watched the TV dramatisation about the Skripal poisonings in Salisbury , you ’ ll know that ’ s also exactly what the director of public health in Wiltshire did in order to stop a deadly Novichok attack ripping through the population .
( She had to send Whitehall civil servants packing at one point in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Going back to the 19th Century , medical officers of health for municipalities such as Manchester were in charge of suppressing outbreaks of the Victorian diseases plaguing dirty water supplies or overcrowded , unsanitary housing .
So public health directors are steeped in this kind of scenario .
And in this case their expertise is also crucial to avoiding a second 21st Century mass shutdown of the economy .
Yet they have been denied the tools they need .
From early-May onwards , as we ’ ve covered extensively , they were unable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out in privately-run testing labs procured by the government .
After the looming local lockdown of Leicester became apparent , suddenly parts of that information did begin flowing .
From the week of June 21 onwards , public health directors started getting some data - partial postcodes showing roughly where those with the virus lived , albeit only provided on a weekly basis .
But for the experts tasked with out-running the virus , it isn ’ t enough .
They don ’ t need to know roughly where the people are ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are and who they are .
This is precisely the information they would have during an outbreak of any other ‘ notifiable ’ disease - in other words any communicable illness , such as TB or meningitis , where cases in their area have to legally be reported to them .
Despite them apparently being owed that information legally , it has not been forthcoming .
Today , Greater Manchester ’ s mayor Andy Burnham revealed patience has run out .
The former health secretary has written to the current holder of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of public health directors here to demand the figures are handed over .
The situation simply makes no sense , when these experts can get the information in any other comparable circumstance .
“ The government have cited patient confidentiality as the reason why they are not providing that data to local authorities , ” he said .
“ That is outwith the norms when it comes to the procedures for notifiable diseases .
The normal procedure is if there is a notifiable disease , that the director of public health in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the data , including patient details .
“ So this system that is running is not consistent with the way we ’ ve always handled notifiable diseases.
” To put it even more succinctly : of course public health directors can be trusted with patient data .
It ’ s their job .
Burnham is unusual within England in that he has a political platform outside London , so is able to voice the argument .
But this applies to everywhere currently trying to keep a lid on the virus , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayor also wrote to the health secretary , making similar points to those Andy Burnham made at the weekend : he has only half the ethnicity data he needs , for example , and nothing about where those with Covid are working .
In Greater Manchester , for what it ’ s worth , only 10-30pc of ethnicity data is coming through about a disease known to affect BAME people more severely .
At the weekend Matt Hancock tried to suggest the region merely needed the help of his own experts in interpreting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a suggestion that caused a collective intake of break in public health departments here .
But this isn ’ t , as one official here says , a story unique to the region .
“ This is not a Greater Manchester thing , ” they say .
“ This is national .
The Secretary of State is trying to present it as ‘ Greater Manchester is wide of the mark ’ .
But we ’ ve been through this with them again and again.
” Part of the issue in this pandemic may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been seen in recent years , perhaps decades .
Back in the 19th Century , Manchester ’ s medical officer of health was a big deal .
You can see that from the original architectural plans for Manchester town hall , unearthed in 2016 .
The status of their designated office showed the post was of social and political importance , on a line with the police chief .
These officers were tasked with keeping a lid on the sorts of diseases that were running rife at the time through the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ housing - the latter in some parts of the world , including in this country , now a key risk for Covid outbreaks .
But times moved on and communicable diseases fell down the list of political concern .
In the 20th Century , those powerful health officers were subsumed into the NHS and then returned to local government in 2013 , just as the drastic cuts to town halls under austerity began to bite .
As a result there is an uneasy sense locally that Whitehall , including the Department of Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite understand what they do .
A couple of weeks ago , for example , Matt Hancock told the House of Commons that ‘ clusters ’ of cases - which he defines as those in one specific setting - will be dealt with by local authorities , but anything wider than that will be passed around through some kind of complicated national chain that may eventually find its way back to the public health director .
Eventually .
Perhaps .
Yet public health departments need the data as it happens , so they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This shouldn ’ t be about reacting to existing to outbreaks , they point out , but preventing new ones .
“ If you ’ ve got real-time personal data , you can identify the contacts , you can think about where the person is working and the social circumstances and you can take preventative measures to stop an outbreak , ” points out one official .
“ But they are thinking about reacting to it when it ’ s already happening , rather than thinking about how we 're going to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is crucial to saving lives , preventing hospital admissions and keeping the economy going .
`` Aren ’ t we supposed to be all about saving the NHS ?
” To use one obvious example , Greater Manchester started identifying all its meat packing plants a couple of weeks ago and has been working with them proactively on measures to ensure the infection never happens .
They don ’ t want it to be a thing .
The principle isn ’ t difficult .
Yet for whatever reason , Whitehall has decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thinking about these questions can not be trusted with the information they need .
It must be hoarded and protected , even as the virus floats about with no respect for governmental tiers .
Nobody knows whether central government will change tack .
But plenty at local level , where people really do know about how public health works , sense the underlying cause .
“ This is about culture , ” says one senior local figure of ministerial and civil service attitudes towards local government and public health departments , “ and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people is whether that means controlling a lethal virus , or just clinging on to meaningless fiefdoms .

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
The principles behind this phase of the Covid response are not new.
Public health departments across the country - at one time experts hidden in the NHS, now back in local authorities - follow the granular movement of a contagious disease in their area and stamp on it, as they have done for many decades.
In this case it might mean a coronavirus outbreak in a school, factory or care home leading to the building being quickly closed down, a deep clean carried out and everyone told to stay at home.
Or, in a more tricky scenario, it could mean spotting that an uptick in infections has suddenly appeared in a corner of their area’s map - around some particular streets, say. In theory that might then lead to people in that area being asked to self isolate, aimed at containing the spread to the wider population. Perhaps local bars and playgrounds would shut down temporarily, with public health messaging targeted at the community in question.
The science behind it is precise but the principle isn’t new. Speak to anyone in public health - including environmental health - and they will tell you the same thing. This is what they do with food poisoning outbreaks, with a spike in sexually transmitted diseases, with measles or TB.
(Image: Daily Mirror)
If you’ve watched the TV dramatisation about the Skripal poisonings in Salisbury, you’ll know that’s also exactly what the director of public health in Wiltshire did in order to stop a deadly Novichok attack ripping through the population. (She had to send Whitehall civil servants packing at one point in order to get on with it.)
Going back to the 19th Century, medical officers of health for municipalities such as Manchester were in charge of suppressing outbreaks of the Victorian diseases plaguing dirty water supplies or overcrowded, unsanitary housing.
So public health directors are steeped in this kind of scenario. And in this case their expertise is also crucial to avoiding a second 21st Century mass shutdown of the economy.
Yet they have been denied the tools they need.
From early-May onwards, as we’ve covered extensively, they were unable to access any data from tests carried out in privately-run testing labs procured by the government.
After the looming local lockdown of Leicester became apparent, suddenly parts of that information did begin flowing. From the week of June 21 onwards, public health directors started getting some data - partial postcodes showing roughly where those with the virus lived, albeit only provided on a weekly basis.
But for the experts tasked with out-running the virus, it isn’t enough.
They don’t need to know roughly where the people are; they need to know exactly where they are and who they are. This is precisely the information they would have during an outbreak of any other ‘notifiable’ disease - in other words any communicable illness, such as TB or meningitis, where cases in their area have to legally be reported to them.
Despite them apparently being owed that information legally, it has not been forthcoming.
Today, Greater Manchester’s mayor Andy Burnham revealed patience has run out. The former health secretary has written to the current holder of that post, Matt Hancock, on behalf of public health directors here to demand the figures are handed over.
The situation simply makes no sense, when these experts can get the information in any other comparable circumstance.
“The government have cited patient confidentiality as the reason why they are not providing that data to local authorities,” he said.
“That is outwith the norms when it comes to the procedures for notifiable diseases. The normal procedure is if there is a notifiable disease, that the director of public health in the relevant local authority would be given all of the data, including patient details.
(Image: M.E.N.)
“So this system that is running is not consistent with the way we’ve always handled notifiable diseases.”
To put it even more succinctly: of course public health directors can be trusted with patient data. It’s their job.
Burnham is unusual within England in that he has a political platform outside London, so is able to voice the argument.
But this applies to everywhere currently trying to keep a lid on the virus, including Leicester. Today that city’s mayor also wrote to the health secretary, making similar points to those Andy Burnham made at the weekend: he has only half the ethnicity data he needs, for example, and nothing about where those with Covid are working.
In Greater Manchester, for what it’s worth, only 10-30pc of ethnicity data is coming through about a disease known to affect BAME people more severely.
At the weekend Matt Hancock tried to suggest the region merely needed the help of his own experts in interpreting the limited data he has provided, a suggestion that caused a collective intake of break in public health departments here.
But this isn’t, as one official here says, a story unique to the region.
(Image: Getty Images)
“This is not a Greater Manchester thing,” they say. “This is national. The Secretary of State is trying to present it as ‘Greater Manchester is wide of the mark’. But we’ve been through this with them again and again.”
Part of the issue in this pandemic may be the light in which public health has been seen in recent years, perhaps decades.
Back in the 19th Century, Manchester’s medical officer of health was a big deal.
You can see that from the original architectural plans for Manchester town hall, unearthed in 2016. The status of their designated office showed the post was of social and political importance, on a line with the police chief. These officers were tasked with keeping a lid on the sorts of diseases that were running rife at the time through the city’s dirty water supplies and overcrowded housing - the latter in some parts of the world, including in this country, now a key risk for Covid outbreaks.
But times moved on and communicable diseases fell down the list of political concern. In the 20th Century, those powerful health officers were subsumed into the NHS and then returned to local government in 2013, just as the drastic cuts to town halls under austerity began to bite. As a result there is an uneasy sense locally that Whitehall, including the Department of Health and Social Care, doesn’t quite understand what they do.
(Image: PA)
A couple of weeks ago, for example, Matt Hancock told the House of Commons that ‘clusters’ of cases - which he defines as those in one specific setting - will be dealt with by local authorities, but anything wider than that will be passed around through some kind of complicated national chain that may eventually find its way back to the public health director. Eventually. Perhaps.
Yet public health departments need the data as it happens, so they can predict what will happen next. This shouldn’t be about reacting to existing to outbreaks, they point out, but preventing new ones.
“If you’ve got real-time personal data, you can identify the contacts, you can think about where the person is working and the social circumstances and you can take preventative measures to stop an outbreak,” points out one official.
“But they are thinking about reacting to it when it’s already happening, rather than thinking about how we're going to stop it happening in the first place - which is crucial to saving lives, preventing hospital admissions and keeping the economy going.
"Aren’t we supposed to be all about saving the NHS?”
(Image: Getty Images)
To use one obvious example, Greater Manchester started identifying all its meat packing plants a couple of weeks ago and has been working with them proactively on measures to ensure the infection never happens. They don’t want it to be a thing. The principle isn’t difficult.
Yet for whatever reason, Whitehall has decided those experts who have spent a career thinking about these questions cannot be trusted with the information they need. It must be hoarded and protected, even as the virus floats about with no respect for governmental tiers.
Nobody knows whether central government will change tack. But plenty at local level, where people really do know about how public health works, sense the underlying cause.
“This is about culture,” says one senior local figure of ministerial and civil service attitudes towards local government and public health departments, “and control.”
The life-or-death question for millions of people is whether that means controlling a lethal virus, or just clinging on to meaningless fiefdoms.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Manchester United settle on realistic transfer targets

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has forwarded realistic transfer targets to Ed Woodward as Manchester United prepare to come up against Jack Grealish .
The MEN revealed United attempted to set up an early deal for Grealish in February and the 24-year-old 's valuation could dwindle if Aston Villa , second from bottom in the Premier League , are relegated back to the Championship .
The spread of the coronavirus across Europe halted negotiations with the representatives of prospective signings .
Grealish is contracted to Villa for three more years but expected to leave his boyhood club in the summer , irrespective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward scored a spectacular opener in Villa 's 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in December and was named man of the match .
Solskjaer reputedly made a beeline for Grealish in the tunnel after the game to congratulate him on his performance and anticipates Grealish will be eager to impress against United again at Villa Park .
`` Every time any player plays against Man United it 's a challenge because , first of all , Man United is a good team but also the whole world is watching , '' Solskjaer said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in front of Man United supporters or manager or team , it 's for himself .
You want to prove to your family and yourself so I ca n't answer any different than that . ''
Following speculation United were eyeing up a £200million move for Tottenham striker Harry Kane , Woodward said there was ' a big disconnect between those stories and the economic realities facing football clubs in general ' amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
United are still uncertain about the size of their budget in the next transfer window as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualification for a second year running .
Borussia Dortmund are open to selling Jadon Sancho for a nine-figure fee and United have also explored the possibility of recruiting a midfielder .
`` I do n't think this is the place for me to discuss our priorities in the transfer market , '' Solskjaer added .
`` We 've been linked with many good players and every individual linked with Man United looks at it as a compliment .
There 's no need for me to discuss where we 're going try to strengthen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realism .
The whole world has changed both financially and the perception we 've got on values , so every time I put the case in front of Ed , I think it 's a sensible one and a realistic one .
`` I think I 've proven to the club I 've always got the club in the front of my mind and the best for the club .
I do n't think short-term or personally this would fit me for a short space of time , I always think long-term and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm always quite careful with money , personal money as well ! ''

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has forwarded realistic transfer targets to Ed Woodward as Manchester United prepare to come up against Jack Grealish.
The MEN revealed United attempted to set up an early deal for Grealish in February and the 24-year-old's valuation could dwindle if Aston Villa, second from bottom in the Premier League, are relegated back to the Championship. The spread of the coronavirus across Europe halted negotiations with the representatives of prospective signings.
Grealish is contracted to Villa for three more years but expected to leave his boyhood club in the summer, irrespective of whether Villa stay up. The forward scored a spectacular opener in Villa's 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in December and was named man of the match.
Solskjaer reputedly made a beeline for Grealish in the tunnel after the game to congratulate him on his performance and anticipates Grealish will be eager to impress against United again at Villa Park.
"Every time any player plays against Man United it's a challenge because, first of all, Man United is a good team but also the whole world is watching," Solskjaer said. "It's not just playing in front of Man United supporters or manager or team, it's for himself. You want to prove to your family and yourself so I can't answer any different than that."
Following speculation United were eyeing up a £200million move for Tottenham striker Harry Kane, Woodward said there was 'a big disconnect between those stories and the economic realities facing football clubs in general' amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
United are still uncertain about the size of their budget in the next transfer window as they could miss out on Champions League qualification for a second year running. Borussia Dortmund are open to selling Jadon Sancho for a nine-figure fee and United have also explored the possibility of recruiting a midfielder.
"I don't think this is the place for me to discuss our priorities in the transfer market," Solskjaer added. "We've been linked with many good players and every individual linked with Man United looks at it as a compliment. There's no need for me to discuss where we're going try to strengthen.
"There's got to be realism. The whole world has changed both financially and the perception we've got on values, so every time I put the case in front of Ed, I think it's a sensible one and a realistic one.
"I think I've proven to the club I've always got the club in the front of my mind and the best for the club. I don't think short-term or personally this would fit me for a short space of time, I always think long-term and try to make good deals.
"I'm always quite careful with money, personal money as well!"


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Manchester United hope to agree new contract with Paul Pogba

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hopeful Manchester United will negotiate a new contract with Paul Pogba .
Pogba is one of eight players out of contract next year but United have the option of an extension to tie the midfielder to the club until 2022 .
United prevented Pogba from leaving last year after he declared his desire for a 'new challenge somewhere else ' and a departure this year appears unlikely due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Pogba 's agent , Mino Raiola , outlined his intention to move one of his marquee clients to Real Madrid after admitting he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not materialise for Pogba last year .
Pogba returned from a troublesome ankle injury last month and has been in fine form for United , who are expected to broach the subject of a new deal following recent renewals for fellow midfielders Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay .
`` I ca n't comment on discussions between player and the club but .
of course , we want to keep the best players around the club , '' Solskjaer said .
`` We want to build a squad for the future and Scott @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at different stages in their careers .
One at the start , one really experienced one .
`` We also need players in the mid-range group .
Hopefully we can do something .
I know that since Paul 's come back he 's looking better and better .
He 's enjoying his football and let 's see where it takes us . ''
A swift turnaround in seasons could work to United 's advantage if they maintain their form into the Europa League knockout stages in mid-August .
United are on an unbeaten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League season is expected to start in early September .
The Premier League are yet to confirm the start date but the Europa League final is in Cologne on August 21 and the summer transfer window is due to be open until October 5 .
United are all but guaranteed to travel to Germany for the Europa League last eight , having thrashed LASK Linz 5-0 in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie , and could end Solskjaer 's first season with two trophies and a return to the Champions League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an interesting break or not break even , '' Solskjaer noted .
`` It depends on how far we get through in the Europa League of course , then it 's the international break after that .
`` We 're not in a position to give the players the holiday they need and deserve , probably .
We 'll probably have to give that during the season or next season .
We 've got to find gaps , rotate and give them a week off .
`` It 's going to be more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the players and rotate and we have a strong squad , definitely .
Hopefully we can challenge .
If we get into the Champions League , of course that makes it even harder [ to rotate ] .
It 's a delicate one and when are you going to give them time ?
They need a mental and physical break .
`` We started the season really well after a good break and they 've worked well in pre-season .
Then we did well after the mid-season break in February , now we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We do have a group that I feel can trust .
They look after themselves , they stay together on Zoom calls and WhatsApp groups , and they demand of each other because if one or two let themselves down they let the team down .
`` I feel very happy with the culture in that group .
They 're good lads and they 're not going to come back 15kg overweight because those days are over . ''

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hopeful Manchester United will negotiate a new contract with Paul Pogba.
Pogba is one of eight players out of contract next year but United have the option of an extension to tie the midfielder to the club until 2022.
United prevented Pogba from leaving last year after he declared his desire for a 'new challenge somewhere else' and a departure this year appears unlikely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pogba's agent, Mino Raiola, outlined his intention to move one of his marquee clients to Real Madrid after admitting he was 'sorry' a transfer to Spain did not materialise for Pogba last year.
Pogba returned from a troublesome ankle injury last month and has been in fine form for United, who are expected to broach the subject of a new deal following recent renewals for fellow midfielders Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay.
"I can't comment on discussions between player and the club but. of course, we want to keep the best players around the club," Solskjaer said. "We want to build a squad for the future and Scott and Nemanja are a similar position but at different stages in their careers. One at the start, one really experienced one.
"We also need players in the mid-range group. Hopefully we can do something. I know that since Paul's come back he's looking better and better. He's enjoying his football and let's see where it takes us."
A swift turnaround in seasons could work to United's advantage if they maintain their form into the Europa League knockout stages in mid-August. United are on an unbeaten run of 16 games and the 2020-21 Premier League season is expected to start in early September.
The Premier League are yet to confirm the start date but the Europa League final is in Cologne on August 21 and the summer transfer window is due to be open until October 5.
United are all but guaranteed to travel to Germany for the Europa League last eight, having thrashed LASK Linz 5-0 in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie, and could end Solskjaer's first season with two trophies and a return to the Champions League.
"It's going to be an interesting break or not break even," Solskjaer noted. "It depends on how far we get through in the Europa League of course, then it's the international break after that.
"We're not in a position to give the players the holiday they need and deserve, probably. We'll probably have to give that during the season or next season. We've got to find gaps, rotate and give them a week off.
"It's going to be more important than ever that we look after the players and rotate and we have a strong squad, definitely. Hopefully we can challenge. If we get into the Champions League, of course that makes it even harder [to rotate]. It's a delicate one and when are you going to give them time? They need a mental and physical break.
"We started the season really well after a good break and they've worked well in pre-season. Then we did well after the mid-season break in February, now we've done well after this lockdown.
"We do have a group that I feel can trust. They look after themselves, they stay together on Zoom calls and WhatsApp groups, and they demand of each other because if one or two let themselves down they let the team down.
"I feel very happy with the culture in that group. They're good lads and they're not going to come back 15kg overweight because those days are over."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Double-decker bus hits hotel roof in Manchester city centre

Emergency services were called after a double-decker bus struck the roof of a hotel in Manchester city centre .
Photographs taken by a witness at the scene and sent to the Manchester Evening News show the damage caused .
It 's not thought there were any injuries .
The incident happened on New York Street in Manchester this afternoon .
The one-way street leads on to Portland Street .
The images show the bus appears to have clipped an overhanging roof of the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel as it drove by .
It 's not known whether any passengers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witness said a saw was used to free the bus from the roof .
A crane can also be seen in the background in the images .
The witness claimed an office above was evacuated in the drama , which he said happened at around 3pm .
He said : `` I only witnessed the aftermath .
`` The bus was on New York Street heading to Portland Street .
`` It seems to have struck the building .
`` I did n't see this however I saw it being cut out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was then reversed out .
`` It looked like the office above was evacuated as all the workers were outside with the bus .
`` The bus driver then they drove the bus away from the scene . ''
The operation to release the bus is understood to have lasted several hours .
The bus involved was a V2 Vantage service , serving Manchester Royal Infirmary and the city 's hospitals via the city centre .
Firefighters were seen to guide the bus out before it was driven away .
The images show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the smash .
The top deck front window was also left cracked and smashed .
Bus company First has been contacted for comment .

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Emergency services were called after a double-decker bus struck the roof of a hotel in Manchester city centre.
Photographs taken by a witness at the scene and sent to the Manchester Evening News show the damage caused.
It's not thought there were any injuries.
The incident happened on New York Street in Manchester this afternoon.
(Image: Jack Oldham)
The one-way street leads on to Portland Street.
The images show the bus appears to have clipped an overhanging roof of the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel as it drove by.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
It's not known whether any passengers were on board at the time.
(Image: Jack Oldham)
The witness said a saw was used to free the bus from the roof.
A crane can also be seen in the background in the images.
The witness claimed an office above was evacuated in the drama, which he said happened at around 3pm.
He said: "I only witnessed the aftermath.
"The bus was on New York Street heading to Portland Street.
"It seems to have struck the building.
(Image: Jack Oldham)
"I didn't see this however I saw it being cut out of the building using a saw. It was then reversed out.
"It looked like the office above was evacuated as all the workers were outside with the bus.
"The bus driver then they drove the bus away from the scene."
The operation to release the bus is understood to have lasted several hours.
(Image: Jack Oldham)
The bus involved was a V2 Vantage service, serving Manchester Royal Infirmary and the city's hospitals via the city centre.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service was called.
Firefighters were seen to guide the bus out before it was driven away.
The images show the roof of the bus was damaged in the smash.
The top deck front window was also left cracked and smashed.
A spokesperson for First Manchester said: “Our staff attended the scene to support the recovery of the vehicle and provide any assistance.
"We are pleased that no passengers were injured and our driver was unhurt. We are investigating how this incident occurred and will assist the police with any enquiries.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Gogglebox star becomes a dad for the first time

Gogglebox star Shaun Malone has become a dad for the first time .
Shaun , who became a star of the Channel 4 show alongside his parents and brother , announced the birth of his son on Twitter .
He said : `` Super happy to announce the birth of my son Louis Malone . ''
He then followed up the tweet praising his girlfriend adding : `` Thanks for everyone ’ s interest , mother and baby are both well I could n't be more proud of my girlfriend I would n't be that brave having my belly cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flooded with messages congratulating the new family of three - including Shaun 's dad .
Tom Snr wrote from his joint Twitter account with wife Julie : `` Well done son , '' alongside cake and beer emojis .
Gogglebox fans were intrigued of the whereabouts of Shaun during the post recent series of the hit show after he did n't appear with his family who take part in the programme from their Manchester home .
Talking on the Coaching From The Sofa podcast , the 24-year-old explained his absence .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pregnant so I moved in with her while this was going on , '' Shaun explained referring to the coronavirus lockdown .
`` And you ca n't go between households so I have n't been able to go into my mum and dad 's house to do it . ''
Hopefully we 'll see Shaun back with the rest of the family when Gogglebox returns in September .

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Gogglebox star Shaun Malone has become a dad for the first time.
Shaun, who became a star of the Channel 4 show alongside his parents and brother, announced the birth of his son on Twitter.
He said: "Super happy to announce the birth of my son Louis Malone."
He then followed up the tweet praising his girlfriend adding: "Thanks for everyone’s interest, mother and baby are both well I couldn't be more proud of my girlfriend I wouldn't be that brave having my belly cut open."
The post has been flooded with messages congratulating the new family of three - including Shaun's dad.
Tom Snr wrote from his joint Twitter account with wife Julie: "Well done son," alongside cake and beer emojis.
Gogglebox fans were intrigued of the whereabouts of Shaun during the post recent series of the hit show after he didn't appear with his family who take part in the programme from their Manchester home.
Talking on the Coaching From The Sofa podcast, the 24-year-old explained his absence.
"I have been missing because my missus is pregnant so I moved in with her while this was going on," Shaun explained referring to the coronavirus lockdown.
"And you can't go between households so I haven't been able to go into my mum and dad's house to do it."
Hopefully we'll see Shaun back with the rest of the family when Gogglebox returns in September.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Rio Ferdinand explains why Man City are not Champions League favourites

Rio Ferdinand has assessed Man City 's chances of winning the Champions League following their 5-0 win over Newcastle United in the Premier League .
Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring before Riyad Mahrez added City 's second .
A Federico Fernandez own goal made it 3-0 , before David Silva and Raheem Sterling completed the rout .
This result was a far cry from a frustrating 1-0 loss at Southampton which came on the back of a remarkable 4-0 win over Liverpool .
Manchester United great Ferdinand believes City 's inconsistency stems from their indifferent defensive options to go alongside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on aggregate against Real Madrid in the Champions League and face the Spanish side in the last 16 tie next month .
Despite their solid situation , Ferdinand feels that City are not Champions League favourites due to their defensive issues and instead believes that tag should be placed on Bayern Munich .
`` City are in two competitions and they have a great chance of winning both , '' Ferdinand told BT Sport .
`` They are on fire going forward but their problems are at the back .
`` Newcastle were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playing a testimonial tonight .
City were not tested at all .
`` I 'm not sure if they are favourites for the Champions League .
Defensively is where they are weak .
If they could pull a centre-back out of the hat to play alongside Aymeric Laporte then sure , but that 's not going to happen .
`` They have a chance because they create so many opportunties .
Bayern Munich are back and they are my favourites , especially with Robert Lewandowski on fire . ''

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Rio Ferdinand has assessed Man City's chances of winning the Champions League following their 5-0 win over Newcastle United in the Premier League.
Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring before Riyad Mahrez added City 's second. A Federico Fernandez own goal made it 3-0, before David Silva and Raheem Sterling completed the rout.
This result was a far cry from a frustrating 1-0 loss at Southampton which came on the back of a remarkable 4-0 win over Liverpool.
Manchester United great Ferdinand believes City's inconsistency stems from their indifferent defensive options to go alongside Aymeric Laporte.
The Blues lead 2-1 on aggregate against Real Madrid in the Champions League and face the Spanish side in the last 16 tie next month.
Despite their solid situation, Ferdinand feels that City are not Champions League favourites due to their defensive issues and instead believes that tag should be placed on Bayern Munich.
"City are in two competitions and they have a great chance of winning both," Ferdinand told BT Sport. "They are on fire going forward but their problems are at the back.
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"Newcastle were poor and it was like they were playing a testimonial tonight. City were not tested at all.
"I'm not sure if they are favourites for the Champions League. Defensively is where they are weak. If they could pull a centre-back out of the hat to play alongside Aymeric Laporte then sure, but that's not going to happen.
"They have a chance because they create so many opportunties. Bayern Munich are back and they are my favourites, especially with Robert Lewandowski on fire."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Guardiola responds to Barcelona interest in City star Eric Garcia

Manchester City are “ confident ” that Eric Garcia will stay with them despite claims he has agreed personal terms with Barcelona .
The Blues are ready to give the 19-year-old defender a big pay increase and extended contract after his outstanding form since the restart .
But his displays have caught the attention of his former club Barcelona – and one report from Spain said that Garcia wants to return home and has agreed personal terms with the Catalan club .
And when Pep Guardiola was asked about the possibility of Garcia going , he sounded very much like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ openly courted by Bayern Munich – and that ended with Sane joining the German giants last week .
It would be a flagrant breach of Fifa rules , if Garcia has agreed terms with Barca , as there has been no approach to City .
But , like Sane , Garcia only has one year left on his current City deal , and if he does indicate that he wants to leave , City would be forced to sell so they did not lose him for nothing next summer .
When Pep Guardiola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ felt Garcia was ready to stay .
“ He has one more year on his contract , ” said Guardiola .
“ If they want him they must call him and we are going to try to convince him to stay here for many , many , many years .
“ I am confident he will stay but at the end it is his decision .
He knows we want him but it is the same with Leroy .
“ We want him but if he does n't want to stay we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , his agent knows , his family knows that we want him .
”

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Manchester City are “confident” that Eric Garcia will stay with them despite claims he has agreed personal terms with Barcelona.
The Blues are ready to give the 19-year-old defender a big pay increase and extended contract after his outstanding form since the restart.
But his displays have caught the attention of his former club Barcelona – and one report from Spain said that Garcia wants to return home and has agreed personal terms with the Catalan club.
And when Pep Guardiola was asked about the possibility of Garcia going, he sounded very much like he did when Leroy Sane was being openly courted by Bayern Munich – and that ended with Sane joining the German giants last week.
It would be a flagrant breach of Fifa rules, if Garcia has agreed terms with Barca, as there has been no approach to City.
But, like Sane, Garcia only has one year left on his current City deal, and if he does indicate that he wants to leave, City would be forced to sell so they did not lose him for nothing next summer.
When Pep Guardiola was asked about the situation, he felt Garcia was ready to stay.
“He has one more year on his contract,” said Guardiola. “If they want him they must call him and we are going to try to convince him to stay here for many, many, many years.
“I am confident he will stay but at the end it is his decision. He knows we want him but it is the same with Leroy.
“We want him but if he doesn't want to stay we cannot do anything else. He knows, his agent knows, his family knows that we want him.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-08--Guardiola has David Silva request after another Man City masterclass

Pep Guardiola wants David Silva to play in front of another full house at the Etihad Stadium to get the Manchester City send-off he deserves .
The Spanish midfielder is saying goodbye to the Etihad after a wonderful 10 years in English football , but showed against Newcastle that he is still a terrific asset to the Blues .
City 's boss has been delighted with the level of performance the 34-year-old has been able to sustain since the players returned from the lockdown and going all the way in the Champions League would be a fitting end to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were no cheers or appreciation to mark his latest masterclass given that there are no fans currently allowed inside stadiums .
As much as the team are hungry for success in their two outstanding knockout competitions this season , Guardiola also wants Silva to be able to soak in the adulation of his supporters for one last time .
`` David was incredible and fantastic today but it is what he has done in 10 years , '' said the coach .
`` What we want is when people can come back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farewell game for him and say goodbye to one of the legends of this club .
When we need to play in small spaces he is maybe the best I have seen moving between the lines and he came back from lockdown in incredible top form and rhythm .
If he decides to play , he can play anywhere , no doubts about this .
`` The young players learn from David through example , not about the words or talking much but maybe this is the best example .
When someone does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ training sessions - especially the way he is a competitor - it is good . ''

Pep Guardiola wants David Silva to play in front of another full house at the Etihad Stadium to get the Manchester City send-off he deserves.
The Spanish midfielder is saying goodbye to the Etihad after a wonderful 10 years in English football, but showed against Newcastle that he is still a terrific asset to the Blues. City's boss has been delighted with the level of performance the 34-year-old has been able to sustain since the players returned from the lockdown and going all the way in the Champions League would be a fitting end to his time with the club.
However, there were no cheers or appreciation to mark his latest masterclass given that there are no fans currently allowed inside stadiums.
As much as the team are hungry for success in their two outstanding knockout competitions this season, Guardiola also wants Silva to be able to soak in the adulation of his supporters for one last time.
"David was incredible and fantastic today but it is what he has done in 10 years," said the coach.
"What we want is when people can come back to the Etihad we can do a farewell game for him and say goodbye to one of the legends of this club. When we need to play in small spaces he is maybe the best I have seen moving between the lines and he came back from lockdown in incredible top form and rhythm. If he decides to play, he can play anywhere, no doubts about this.
"The young players learn from David through example, not about the words or talking much but maybe this is the best example. When someone doesn't talk much but through example in training sessions - especially the way he is a competitor - it is good."