themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Salford Uni donates machine to help government run more COVID-19 tests

The University of Salford are supporting the fight against Coronavirus by donating a specialist machine that will help the government run tens of thousands more COVID-19 tests .
The machine can detect as little as one virus particle in swabs taken from inside the mouth or nose of a patient .
Known as the Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction equipment ( RT-CPR ) , it is normally used by University researchers studying inflammatory and fibrotic diseases .
It was handed over to armed forces personnel last week to be delivered to the company the government has tasked with upping the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level , the university has also delivered thousands of PPE to Salford Royal hospital and are currently developing a state of the art visor for NHS staff on the front-line .
The visor , which is now being tested by Salford Royal , is aiming to be 90 per cent sterilisable , and will go into production this week .
Around 37,000 pairs of disposable gloves , over 500 lab coats , 100 pairs of safety glasses and 10 full body suits as well as hand sanitisers were also donated to the hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS .
Biomedical science staff returned to the campus that was closed amidst the Coronavirus outbreak to collect the much needed equipment and delivered it to the hospital .
Professor Sheila Pankhurst , Dean of the School of Science , Engineering and Environment , said : `` I am so proud of the way in which university staff have stepped up to support our NHS at this vital time .
`` As a civic university , we are committed to supporting our community and local partners at all times , but never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this national effort to combat coronavirus .
`` Staff acted swiftly and with great generosity to get much needed supplies and equipment to the frontline of this battle .
`` When we put the call out for volunteers , we were inundated with staff wanting to help .
We are all so grateful for all the work that the NHS is doing – and that includes many of our current students and alumni who work in these vital services – so this contribution is the least that we could do . ''
Drop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
The University of Salford are supporting the fight against Coronavirus by donating a specialist machine that will help the government run tens of thousands more COVID-19 tests.
The machine can detect as little as one virus particle in swabs taken from inside the mouth or nose of a patient.
Known as the Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction equipment (RT-CPR), it is normally used by University researchers studying inflammatory and fibrotic diseases.
It was handed over to armed forces personnel last week to be delivered to the company the government has tasked with upping the number of COVID-19 tests.
On a local level, the university has also delivered thousands of PPE to Salford Royal hospital and are currently developing a state of the art visor for NHS staff on the front-line.
The visor, which is now being tested by Salford Royal, is aiming to be 90 per cent sterilisable, and will go into production this week.
Around 37,000 pairs of disposable gloves, over 500 lab coats, 100 pairs of safety glasses and 10 full body suits as well as hand sanitisers were also donated to the hospital after widespread reports of kit shortages in the NHS.
Biomedical science staff returned to the campus that was closed amidst the Coronavirus outbreak to collect the much needed equipment and delivered it to the hospital.
Professor Sheila Pankhurst, Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Environment, said: "I am so proud of the way in which university staff have stepped up to support our NHS at this vital time.
"As a civic university, we are committed to supporting our community and local partners at all times, but never more so than now as part of this national effort to combat coronavirus.
"Staff acted swiftly and with great generosity to get much needed supplies and equipment to the frontline of this battle.
"When we put the call out for volunteers, we were inundated with staff wanting to help. We are all so grateful for all the work that the NHS is doing – and that includes many of our current students and alumni who work in these vital services – so this contribution is the least that we could do."
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Joe Wicks' PE lessons raise a massive amount of money for the NHS

Joe Wicks revealed today that his popular PE lesson videos have already raised a massive amount of money for the NHS .
The Body Coach is donating all the YouTube ad revenue from his daily exercise videos to the health service amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Dad-of-two Joe , 33 , started uploading 30min classes aimed at keeping children fit while they are not in school .
They have consistently attracted hundreds of thousands of live viewers , and millions of catch-up viewers .
Youngsters and adults across the world have been tuning in to his HIIT style lessons while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe told hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid that he 's raised $ 100,000 - around £77,000 .
`` I saw the views and it 's unprecedented , '' he said .
`` YouTube is n't a massive part of my business , it ’ s free content , I love sharing it , but obviously with the views comes more ad revenue .
`` I saw the number , I was blown away .
I haven ’ t even mentioned it yet but I said that money needs to go somewhere special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - it felt right , I 'm so proud I 'm doing that . ''
Joe then asked Piers whether he wanted to know the total amount , to which he said yes .
`` So in the past week alone , in the last seven videos , the adsense , is nearly at $ 100,000 US dollars .
That ’ s incredible .
`` Every penny of every workout we do on this school stuff , from now and forever on that channel , all that money is going to the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raising money for these workers , which for me is incredible .
“ It 's almost like a UNICEF Soccer Aid thing - the more we do it , the more we raise .
It ’ s amazing , I 'm so proud of that . ''
The interview came shortly before Joe 's daily live lesson , which crashed as 600,000 viewers were tuned in .
Joe came back online after changing the batteries in his camera .

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
Joe Wicks revealed today that his popular PE lesson videos have already raised a massive amount of money for the NHS.
The Body Coach is donating all the YouTube ad revenue from his daily exercise videos to the health service amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Dad-of-two Joe, 33, started uploading 30min classes aimed at keeping children fit while they are not in school.
They have consistently attracted hundreds of thousands of live viewers, and millions of catch-up viewers.
Youngsters and adults across the world have been tuning in to his HIIT style lessons while on lockdown from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joe told hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid that he's raised $100,000 - around £77,000.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"I saw the views and it's unprecedented," he said. "YouTube isn't a massive part of my business, it’s free content, I love sharing it, but obviously with the views comes more ad revenue.
"I saw the number, I was blown away. I haven’t even mentioned it yet but I said that money needs to go somewhere special and the NHS is the right place - it felt right, I'm so proud I'm doing that."
(Image: ITV)
Joe then asked Piers whether he wanted to know the total amount, to which he said yes.
"So in the past week alone, in the last seven videos, the adsense, is nearly at $100,000 US dollars. That’s incredible.
"Every penny of every workout we do on this school stuff, from now and forever on that channel, all that money is going to the NHS in the UK.
"We are raising money for these workers, which for me is incredible.
“It's almost like a UNICEF Soccer Aid thing - the more we do it, the more we raise. It’s amazing, I'm so proud of that."
The interview came shortly before Joe's daily live lesson, which crashed as 600,000 viewers were tuned in.
Joe came back online after changing the batteries in his camera.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Huge Bolton nightclub is up for sale - and could be yours for just £7,500

An enormous nightclub in the centre of Bolton is going under the hammer and could be sold for as little as £7,500 .
The former Loco club on Bridge Street was opened in 2013 after a £500,000 investment but has now been empty for some time .
It is set to be sold through an online auction on Tuesday , April 21 , and has been tagged with a surprisingly low guide price .
The club spans a 10,000 sq ft floor space over two floors , which made it Bolton ’ s largest club when it opened .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it can be brought back to life .
“ This is a handsome period property with enormous potential for alternative uses , subject to any new owner gaining the relevant planning consent , ” said Paul Thompson , managing director of Pugh auctioneers .
“ This is a great redevelopment opportunity and we hope that a strategic investor will give a new future to this well-known Bolton building.
” The site used to be home to another nightclub , New York New York , which opened in 2003 and was modelled after American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more about the building and the upcoming auction click here .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
An enormous nightclub in the centre of Bolton is going under the hammer and could be sold for as little as £7,500.
The former Loco club on Bridge Street was opened in 2013 after a £500,000 investment but has now been empty for some time.
It is set to be sold through an online auction on Tuesday, April 21, and has been tagged with a surprisingly low guide price.
The club spans a 10,000 sq ft floor space over two floors, which made it Bolton’s largest club when it opened. Now, the auctioneers behind the sale hope it can be brought back to life.
“This is a handsome period property with enormous potential for alternative uses, subject to any new owner gaining the relevant planning consent,” said Paul Thompson, managing director of Pugh auctioneers.
“This is a great redevelopment opportunity and we hope that a strategic investor will give a new future to this well-known Bolton building.”
The site used to be home to another nightclub, New York New York, which opened in 2003 and was modelled after American superclub Studio 54.
To find out more about the building and the upcoming auction click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Salford youngster creates rap for NHS - and gets backing from Corrie star

A young musician has created his own rap to show support for NHS staff .
Lewis Pratt is only 12 but told his parents that he wanted the song to 'go viral ' so he could use it to fundraiser for the health service .
The talented youngster , from Salford , wrote the lyrics as part of a project set by his teachers at the Albion Academy for pupils stuck at home during the pandemic before his dad , Andy , posted a video of the rap on social media .
The Twitter post was retweeted by Coronation Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 5,600 views while the video has been seen by another 2,800 people on Facebook .
Lewis ' mum Nadine says her son has always loved music and is often writing his own raps so decided that he wanted to put his skills to good use .
`` He had written a poem and the next day we logged onto his school page to see what work has been set and his music work was to write a song , '' she said .
`` He 'd written it and he said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it and make some money for the NHS . ''
She added : `` He 's always singing around the house and rapping .
`` He loves that kind of stuff , we can never shut up him . ''
Nadine has created a page on campaign website GoFundMe for people to support Lewis ' work .
All the money generated by the page will be given to the NHS .
To donate , click here .
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
A young musician has created his own rap to show support for NHS staff.
Lewis Pratt is only 12 but told his parents that he wanted the song to 'go viral' so he could use it to fundraiser for the health service.
The talented youngster, from Salford, wrote the lyrics as part of a project set by his teachers at the Albion Academy for pupils stuck at home during the pandemic before his dad, Andy, posted a video of the rap on social media.
The Twitter post was retweeted by Coronation Street star Andrew Whyment and has generated more than 5,600 views while the video has been seen by another 2,800 people on Facebook.
Lewis' mum Nadine says her son has always loved music and is often writing his own raps so decided that he wanted to put his skills to good use.
"He had written a poem and the next day we logged onto his school page to see what work has been set and his music work was to write a song," she said.
"He'd written it and he said he would love to be able to release it and make some money for the NHS."
She added: "He's always singing around the house and rapping.
"He loves that kind of stuff, we can never shut up him."
Nadine has created a page on campaign website GoFundMe for people to support Lewis' work.
All the money generated by the page will be given to the NHS. To donate, click here.
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Blackpool Pleasure Beach launches ICON virtual ride experience

A virtual version of Blackpool Pleasure Beach 's ICON rollercoaster will launch this weekend .
The immersive video experience will allow thrill-seekers to enjoy the 1.14 kilometre ride from their own home .
On Saturday ( April 4 ) at 4pm , visitors to the attraction 's social media channels will be able to take a virtual trip on the £16m ride- the UK 's first double launch rollercoaster .
It 's the first in a string of virtual experiences set to be launched by the park over the coming weeks .
Blackpool Pleasure Beach will be releasing exclusive clips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every Saturday .
The park will also be sharing fun activities and exercises via social media to keep followers entertained - from keep fit videos with Team Nick , to arts and craft creations .
Amanda Thompson OBE , managing director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach , said : “ We understand that theme parks are an escape for people and rollercoasters are an amazing , feel-good journey .
`` During these times , if we can bring some of that joy home for people , that would just be wonderful.
” To take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virtual experiences , visit the Blackpool Pleasure Beach official Facebook , Twitter or Instagram .
Billed as the 'world 's most interactive rollercoaster ' , ICON sees riders catapulted forward at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour before soaring to heights of 82 feet .
It opened to visitors in 2018 .
For more ideas and inspiration to pass the time and stay entertained during lockdown , visit our new Stay In section .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
A virtual version of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's ICON rollercoaster will launch this weekend.
The immersive video experience will allow thrill-seekers to enjoy the 1.14 kilometre ride from their own home.
On Saturday (April 4) at 4pm, visitors to the attraction's social media channels will be able to take a virtual trip on the £16m ride- the UK's first double launch rollercoaster.
It's the first in a string of virtual experiences set to be launched by the park over the coming weeks.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach will be releasing exclusive clips and footage of its most popular rides every Saturday.
The park will also be sharing fun activities and exercises via social media to keep followers entertained - from keep fit videos with Team Nick, to arts and craft creations.
Amanda Thompson OBE, managing director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, said: “We understand that theme parks are an escape for people and rollercoasters are an amazing, feel-good journey.
"During these times, if we can bring some of that joy home for people, that would just be wonderful.”
To take part in the Pleasure Beach’s virtual experiences, visit the Blackpool Pleasure Beach official Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Billed as the 'world's most interactive rollercoaster', ICON sees riders catapulted forward at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour before soaring to heights of 82 feet.
It opened to visitors in 2018.
For more ideas and inspiration to pass the time and stay entertained during lockdown, visit our new Stay In section.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Piers Morgan compared to Donald Trump after admitting make-up fail

Susanna Reid compared Piers Morgan to Donald Trump after a rather embarrassing make-up fail was revealed to viewers .
Barely 45 minutes into today ’ s episode of the ITV programme , Piers admitted that people had been pointing out he has “ blending issues ” with his foundation .
This has led to very visible contrast between his orange face and make-up free neck .
The Good Morning Britain presenters have been doing their own faces up for the show since coronavirus social distancing measures came into place .
Piers said : “ A lot of people are saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make-up when I turn - here .
`` I don ’ t even know what that means other than clearly , this part of my head is orange , and this part is not .
I don ’ t know what that means and I don ’ t care .
`` I come in , I 'm slapping this stuff on .
I have no idea what I ’ m putting on or how to apply it and in the general scheme of the problems of the world right now my blending issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important people . ''
And Susanna couldn ’ t wait to point out the resemblance to the US president .
“ You ’ re turning into your friend , ” she giggled , referencing the fact that Piers had interviewed him in the past .
“ President Trump , there you go , taking makeup tips .
`` Can I just say we don ’ t have our professional army of make-up and hair artists on at the moment .
Of course we do n't need them .
`` Clearly we do - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the workplace so we ’ ve let them go . ''
Piers then joked that he ’ d “ over-tangerined the tangerine dream ” adding a mock apology to anyone he had “ offended with my orange head ” .

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
Susanna Reid compared Piers Morgan to Donald Trump after a rather embarrassing make-up fail was revealed to viewers.
Barely 45 minutes into today’s episode of the ITV programme, Piers admitted that people had been pointing out he has “blending issues” with his foundation.
This has led to very visible contrast between his orange face and make-up free neck.
The Good Morning Britain presenters have been doing their own faces up for the show since coronavirus social distancing measures came into place.
Piers said: “A lot of people are saying apparently I have blending issues with my make-up when I turn - here.
(Image: ITV)
"I don’t even know what that means other than clearly, this part of my head is orange, and this part is not. I don’t know what that means and I don’t care.
"I come in, I'm slapping this stuff on. I have no idea what I’m putting on or how to apply it and in the general scheme of the problems of the world right now my blending issues with my make up are not that important people."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
And Susanna couldn’t wait to point out the resemblance to the US president.
“You’re turning into your friend,” she giggled, referencing the fact that Piers had interviewed him in the past.
“President Trump, there you go, taking makeup tips.
(Image: ITV)
"Can I just say we don’t have our professional army of make-up and hair artists on at the moment. Of course we don't need them.
"Clearly we do - but we don’t need them in the workplace so we’ve let them go."
Piers then joked that he’d “over-tangerined the tangerine dream” adding a mock apology to anyone he had “offended with my orange head”.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--The National Theatre is streaming a free play every week

With theatres now closed up and down the country , it 's going to be a while before we can go out to watch a play again .
But that does n't mean you ca n't still get your dose of drama .
Some of the world 's best plays and musicals can now be streamed straight into your home - we 've rounded up some of the best platforms here .
And now joining them is the National Theatre , which is streaming a new free play every week , starting tomorrow .
The National Theatre at Home programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guvnors , starring James Corden , on Thursday April 2 at 7pm .
The Gavin and Stacey star won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Francis Henshall in the West End and Broadway hit .
Viewers can watch it on YouTube for up to seven days , until the next production is released .
Also streaming in April will be Jane Eyre , a bold and innovative reimagining of Charlotte Brontë ’ s masterpiece , uncovering one woman 's fight for freedom and fulfilment ( April 9 to April 16 ) ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Long John Silver in Robert Louis Stevenson ’ s story of murder , money and mutiny ( April 16 to 23 ) ; and Shakespeare 's classic comedy Twelfth Night , featuring Tamsin Greig as Malvolia ( April 23 to 30 ) .
Each play will be available to stream from 7pm on the Thursday it is released .
The National Theatre said it was their 'way of sharing our work with you while we all have to stay at home during this extraordinary time ' .
The organisation has also unlocked its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pupils to access for free at home .
From Shakespeare and Greek tragedy to contemporary literary adaptations , the archive features productions from the National Theatre , as well as the Young Vic , Donmar Warehouse and Bridge Theatre .
Schools will be able to share log-in details with pupils to access resources at home .
While plays are free to watch , the theatre is welcoming donations , which it says will help it withstand the 'huge financial impact ' of its closure while continuing to share its work with as many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a position to donate can do so at nationaltheatre.org.uk/nt-at-home .
For more ideas and inspiration to pass the time and stay entertained during lockdown , visit our new Stay In section .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
With theatres now closed up and down the country, it's going to be a while before we can go out to watch a play again.
But that doesn't mean you can't still get your dose of drama.
Some of the world's best plays and musicals can now be streamed straight into your home - we've rounded up some of the best platforms here.
And now joining them is the National Theatre, which is streaming a new free play every week, starting tomorrow.
The National Theatre at Home programme kicks off with One Man, Two Guvnors, starring James Corden, on Thursday April 2 at 7pm.
The Gavin and Stacey star won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Francis Henshall in the West End and Broadway hit.
Viewers can watch it on YouTube for up to seven days, until the next production is released.
Also streaming in April will be Jane Eyre, a bold and innovative reimagining of Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece, uncovering one woman's fight for freedom and fulfilment (April 9 to April 16); Treasure Island, starring Arthur Darvill as Long John Silver in Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny (April 16 to 23); and Shakespeare's classic comedy Twelfth Night, featuring Tamsin Greig as Malvolia (April 23 to 30).
(Image: Manuel Harlan)
Each play will be available to stream from 7pm on the Thursday it is released.
The National Theatre said it was their 'way of sharing our work with you while we all have to stay at home during this extraordinary time'.
The organisation has also unlocked its National Theatre Collection for all state school pupils to access for free at home.
From Shakespeare and Greek tragedy to contemporary literary adaptations, the archive features productions from the National Theatre, as well as the Young Vic, Donmar Warehouse and Bridge Theatre.
Schools will be able to share log-in details with pupils to access resources at home.
While plays are free to watch, the theatre is welcoming donations, which it says will help it withstand the 'huge financial impact' of its closure while continuing to share its work with as many people as possible.
Anyone who is in a position to donate can do so at nationaltheatre.org.uk/nt-at-home.
For more ideas and inspiration to pass the time and stay entertained during lockdown, visit our new Stay In section.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Man City star Kevin De Bruyne reveals new career decision

Kevin De Bruyne is planning to extend his career by two years .
The Manchester City star revealed he has been talking about the future with his wife Michele while locked down with his family during the coronavirus pandemic .
And , after missing a large chunk of last season due to injury , and seeing this season halted by the global crisis , the Belgium international has made a big decision .
“ I told my wife I ’ m going to play a little longer , ” he said , during a Q and A on Instagram .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not stay at home , I told her I ’ m going to take two years more.
” De Bruyne also expressed his frustration at the halt to the football season , while making it plain that it is insignificant in the bigger picture of the pandemic ’ s terrible progress .
The 28-year-old was closing on the Premier League assists record , standing four behind Thierry Henry ’ s high of 20 .
That put him on course to win the league ’ s own Playmaker of the Year award for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clinched it in 2018 by setting up Gabriel Jesus ’ late winner at Southampton on the final day of the season .
Said De Bruyne : “ It 's time to play football again .
I miss it and it 's difficult .
But we are not important , football is not important .
People love football , but you need to stay safe .
“ I 've been at home now for two weeks .
At the beginning , my family and my kids were a little bit sick so that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alright now .
“ It took eight or nine days , we do n't know , but now they are better luckily as you never know what is going to happen .
“ People ask why I 'm not in Belgium .
It 's because I 'm self-isolating in England .
I live here so I 'm here with my kids and wife.
” De Bruyne is contracted to City until the summer of 2023 after signing a blockbuster five-year deal in 2018 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Kevin De Bruyne is planning to extend his career by two years.
The Manchester City star revealed he has been talking about the future with his wife Michele while locked down with his family during the coronavirus pandemic.
And, after missing a large chunk of last season due to injury, and seeing this season halted by the global crisis, the Belgium international has made a big decision.
“I told my wife I’m going to play a little longer,” he said, during a Q and A on Instagram. “After this lockdown. I cannot stay at home, I told her I’m going to take two years more.”
De Bruyne also expressed his frustration at the halt to the football season, while making it plain that it is insignificant in the bigger picture of the pandemic’s terrible progress.
The 28-year-old was closing on the Premier League assists record, standing four behind Thierry Henry’s high of 20.
That put him on course to win the league’s own Playmaker of the Year award for the second time in three years, having clinched it in 2018 by setting up Gabriel Jesus’ late winner at Southampton on the final day of the season.
Said De Bruyne: “It's time to play football again. I miss it and it's difficult. But we are not important, football is not important. People love football, but you need to stay safe.
Follow chief City writer Stuart Brennan on social media To follow Stuart on Twitter, click here. Or to like his Facebook page and keep up to date with the latest breaking news, click here. Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Manchester City Facebook page where we share our latest Blues news.
“I've been at home now for two weeks. At the beginning, my family and my kids were a little bit sick so that was a little bit worrying but they are alright now.
“It took eight or nine days, we don't know, but now they are better luckily as you never know what is going to happen.
“People ask why I'm not in Belgium. It's because I'm self-isolating in England. I live here so I'm here with my kids and wife.”
De Bruyne is contracted to City until the summer of 2023 after signing a blockbuster five-year deal in 2018.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--New guidelines on how often you're allowed to go shopping

Ever since Boris Johnson announced the UK would be entering a lockdown period , people have been left confused about when they should shop , and how frequently they 're allowed to go .
The official Government guidelines currently state that people so go shopping `` as infrequent as possible '' , and only for 'essentials ' , but this has left many consumers confused .
Some ministers have pointed out however , that people should only be going to the supermarket once a week and preferably alone if possible , reports North Wales Live .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try and shop just once a week ” and `` just do the essentials , not everything else . ''
While no official rules are currently enforced , supermarkets remain one of the most high-risk places to visit in terms of catching and spreading the coronavirus and with with the NHS stretched beyond its means , limiting supermarket trips is the best thing to do in terms of protecting yourself , others and the NHS .
It is something that has touched all our lives .
From cradle to grave , the National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life .
Today , more than ever , we should cherish those who dedicate themselves to our care as they work tirelessly to care for people in the face of the coronavirus pandemic .
So let ’ s show them some love , and create a living map of gratitude from every corner of Britain .
Click HERE to drop a heart on the map , and show you appreciate the efforts undertaken daily in the NHS .
The statement comes after some shoppers claimed they had been turned away from supermarkets because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asda , Aldi , Tesco and Sainsbury 's have all since clarified their stance on families taking children into their shops .
Aldi has said it has not restrictions on people shopping with family members , but it has asked customers to try to ensure that one person per household does the shopping alone where possible .
Tesco said it has not placed a ban on children but is trying to encourage people to shop with no more than one other person .
Sainsbury 's has said the same thing .
Asda said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being shared on social media suggesting that families with children wo n't be allowed into our stores from tomorrow .
This is n't the case .
`` Everyone in the UK is being asked by the Government to shop sensibly and only when required .
Where needed , we are limiting the total number of shoppers we allow into a store at any one time .
`` If possible , it would help us greatly if you could bring fewer family members when visiting our stores .
This will help us maintain social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Basically , use your common sense and shop sensible .
If you can do a shop alone , do it .
If it 's too difficult for you to do so because you 're a single parent , your partner is a key worker or you are/require a carer , but you need essentials , it 's okay not to do a solo trip .
As long as we aim to protect everybody around us and the NHS by shopping sensibly , we 'll get through this , together .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Harri Evans, Rachel Pugh)

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
Ever since Boris Johnson announced the UK would be entering a lockdown period, people have been left confused about when they should shop, and how frequently they're allowed to go.
The official Government guidelines currently state that people so go shopping 'as infrequent as possible', and only for 'essentials', but this has left many consumers confused.
Some ministers have pointed out however, that people should only be going to the supermarket once a week and preferably alone if possible, reports North Wales Live.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told the BBC that people should 'try and shop just once a week' and 'just do the essentials, not everything else'.
While no official rules are currently enforced, supermarkets remain one of the most high-risk places to visit in terms of catching and spreading the coronavirus and with with the NHS stretched beyond its means, limiting supermarket trips is the best thing to do in terms of protecting yourself, others and the NHS.
Send a heart to our #NHSheroes and donate to our NHS frontline fundraiser It is something that has touched all our lives. From cradle to grave, the National Health Service is a part of British life. Today, more than ever, we should cherish those who dedicate themselves to our care as they work tirelessly to care for people in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Click HERE to drop a heart on the map and you can also donate to our frontline fundraiser for the chance to win weekly prizes.
The statement comes after some shoppers claimed they had been turned away from supermarkets because they had their children with them.
Asda, Aldi, Tesco and Sainsbury's have all since clarified their stance on families taking children into their shops.
Aldi has said it has not restrictions on people shopping with family members, but it has asked customers to try to ensure that one person per household does the shopping alone where possible.
Tesco said it has not placed a ban on children but is trying to encourage people to shop with no more than one other person.
Sainsbury's has said the same thing.
Asda said: "You may have seen posts being shared on social media suggesting that families with children won't be allowed into our stores from tomorrow. This isn't the case.
Follow Money-Saving and Shopping Editor Rachel Pugh on social media To follow Rachel on Twitter click here. Or to like her Facebook page click here . Here's a link to the M.E.N.'s main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
"Everyone in the UK is being asked by the government to shop sensibly and only when required. Where needed, we are limiting the total number of shoppers we allow into a store at any one time.
"If possible, it would help us greatly if you could bring fewer family members when visiting our stores. This will help us maintain social distancing guidelines we already have in place."
Basically, use your common sense and shop sensibly. If you can do a shop alone, do it. If it's too difficult for you to do so because you're a single parent, your partner is a key worker or you are/require a carer, but you need essentials, it's okay not to do a solo trip.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Five moments when Bellingham announced himself amid Man Utd interest

Jude Bellingham is one of the most highly sought-after players in world football as Manchester United monitor the teenage sensation with good reason .
At the age of 16 , the Birmingham City midfielder has more than held his own in the cut and thrust of the Championship , and has so much scope for improvement too .
Bellingham had long been spoken about around St Andrew 's as the golden boy of an increasingly productive academy .
Nathan Redmond , Jack Butland and Demarai Gray had all done well , but he was destined for even bigger things .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Bellingham in action as he broke Trevor Francis ’ record to become the youngest ever player in Birmingham ’ s history when he made his debut against Portsmouth in the League Cup .
It was the start of a special season , during which his true potential was revealed in a few telling moments .
A goal on his home debut against Stoke City It wasn ’ t so much that Bellingham scored the winning goal , he would do the same a week later against Charlton Athletic too , but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on after just half an hour , as Pep Clotet ’ s plans unravelled .
Jefferson Montero was making a rare start and pulled up with a hamstring problem .
Assessing the options on his bench , Clotet summoned Bellingham rather than any of the much more experienced midfielders at his disposal , including Gary Gardner , Dan Crowley and Craig Gardner .
Pressed into action in an unfamiliar position on the left , Bellingham didn ’ t look out of place .
His goal benefited from a big deflection , but nobody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An imperious performance in his preferred position against Middlesbrough Bellingham had played well in fits and starts , but a televised match at home to Middlesbrough was where he truly justified the hype .
Selected in centre midfield from the start for the first time , he dominated .
He came into his own , putting in a complete performance .
Bellingham demonstrated the full range of his ability – snapping into tackles against much more experienced players and emerging with the ball , then beating a man and finding a pass .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ delicate the next , often as part of the same move .
Recovering the ball , driving forward and moving it on at the right moment , Middlesbrough couldn ’ t deal with him .
A roulette turn on the edge of his own box against Brentford Bellingham already looked up for it , having struck the post early on and glided past challenges with ease .
Once more playing out wide rather than through the middle , his energy and ability were still clear to see .
But more than anything else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stood out .
As an attack broke down and the ball was scrambled clear , it came to Bellingham on the edge of his own box .
Christian Norgaard came in for a tackle but , rather than panic , he pivoted expertly on the ball and charged up the pitch .
The midfielder had to be dragged down to prevent him from getting into the opposition half as he built up a head of steam .
The subsequent run was impressive , but the impudence of the turn that created the space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sense that this wasn ’ t any ordinary player .
Tireless running to set up a vital goal against Barnsley Never give up .
Players are taught at an early age to , at the very least , always make their opponents work and be prepared to chase down a lost cause .
Whether they heed that message or not , and have the desire to put it into practice , is another thing entirely .
Bellingham certainly does .
Fourteen minutes from time , with the match between Birmingham and Barnsley heading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looked to shepherd the ball out of play on the far side .
While many players would have left him to it , and got back in position to conserve energy , Bellingham chased the ball down .
He nipped in front of Andersen to keep it in play and crossed for Scott Hogan to score the winner .
While the striker took the plaudits , it owed everything to Bellingham 's persistence .
Not backing down to Lee Johnson against Bristol City At the Blues ' academy , they speak as highly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability .
A humble , unassuming person , sudden fame and status hasn ’ t gone to his head .
He remains as polite and hardworking as always .
But his modesty shouldn ’ t be mistaken for weakness .
He ’ s repeatedly shown on the pitch that he won ’ t be bullied or taken advantage of because of his age .
Players and managers have experienced his belligerent side .
When Bellingham was taking his time leaving the pitch as Birmingham led Bristol City , Lee Johnson started complaining furiously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his ground and had a go back .
A talented player , he has an all-important toughness too .

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
Jude Bellingham is one of the most highly sought-after players in world football as Manchester United monitor the teenage sensation with good reason.
At the age of 16, the Birmingham City midfielder has more than held his own in the cut and thrust of the Championship, and has so much scope for improvement too.
Bellingham had long been spoken about around St Andrew's as the golden boy of an increasingly productive academy. Nathan Redmond, Jack Butland and Demarai Gray had all done well, but he was destined for even bigger things.
The wider world got its first glimpse of Bellingham in action as he broke Trevor Francis’ record to become the youngest ever player in Birmingham’s history when he made his debut against Portsmouth in the League Cup. It was the start of a special season, during which his true potential was revealed in a few telling moments.
A goal on his home debut against Stoke City
It wasn’t so much that Bellingham scored the winning goal, he would do the same a week later against Charlton Athletic too, but that he was trusted enough to be thrown on after just half an hour, as Pep Clotet’s plans unravelled.
Jefferson Montero was making a rare start and pulled up with a hamstring problem. Assessing the options on his bench, Clotet summoned Bellingham rather than any of the much more experienced midfielders at his disposal, including Gary Gardner, Dan Crowley and Craig Gardner.
Pressed into action in an unfamiliar position on the left, Bellingham didn’t look out of place. His goal benefited from a big deflection, but nobody could deny his desire and intent.
An imperious performance in his preferred position against Middlesbrough
Bellingham had played well in fits and starts, but a televised match at home to Middlesbrough was where he truly justified the hype. Selected in centre midfield from the start for the first time, he dominated.
He came into his own, putting in a complete performance. Bellingham demonstrated the full range of his ability – snapping into tackles against much more experienced players and emerging with the ball, then beating a man and finding a pass.
He could be destructive one moment and delicate the next, often as part of the same move. Recovering the ball, driving forward and moving it on at the right moment, Middlesbrough couldn’t deal with him.
(Image: 2019 Getty Images)
A roulette turn on the edge of his own box against Brentford
Bellingham already looked up for it, having struck the post early on and glided past challenges with ease. Once more playing out wide rather than through the middle, his energy and ability were still clear to see.
But more than anything else, it was one fleeting moment that stood out. As an attack broke down and the ball was scrambled clear, it came to Bellingham on the edge of his own box. Christian Norgaard came in for a tackle but, rather than panic, he pivoted expertly on the ball and charged up the pitch.
The midfielder had to be dragged down to prevent him from getting into the opposition half as he built up a head of steam. The subsequent run was impressive, but the impudence of the turn that created the space was something else. It confirmed the sense that this wasn’t any ordinary player.
Tireless running to set up a vital goal against Barnsley
Never give up. Players are taught at an early age to, at the very least, always make their opponents work and be prepared to chase down a lost cause. Whether they heed that message or not, and have the desire to put it into practice, is another thing entirely. Bellingham certainly does.
Fourteen minutes from time, with the match between Birmingham and Barnsley heading for a goalless draw, Mads Andersen looked to shepherd the ball out of play on the far side.
While many players would have left him to it, and got back in position to conserve energy, Bellingham chased the ball down. He nipped in front of Andersen to keep it in play and crossed for Scott Hogan to score the winner. While the striker took the plaudits, it owed everything to Bellingham's persistence.
Not backing down to Lee Johnson against Bristol City
At the Blues' academy, they speak as highly of Bellingham’s character as his ability. A humble, unassuming person, sudden fame and status hasn’t gone to his head. He remains as polite and hardworking as always.
But his modesty shouldn’t be mistaken for weakness. He’s repeatedly shown on the pitch that he won’t be bullied or taken advantage of because of his age. Players and managers have experienced his belligerent side.
When Bellingham was taking his time leaving the pitch as Birmingham led Bristol City, Lee Johnson started complaining furiously to the officials. The teenager stood his ground and had a go back. A talented player, he has an all-important toughness too.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Kylw Walker's special text to Pep Guardiola

Kyle Walker dropped manager Pep Guardiola a special text message as Manchester City wait out the coronavirus lockdown .
The Blues star , like all of his teammates and Guardiola , is self-isolating in a bid to beat the global pandemic .
And , while the players are making full use of social networking and internet games to keep the camaraderie rolling , the boss is not part of that .
But Walker has revealed that he sent the Catalan a message after hearing about his generous 1million euros donation to the health service fighting the deadly bug in Barcelona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group chat !
” said Walker .
“ I dropped him a text message last night saying hope you are OK , and I hope the family is well and fair play for donating the amount of money that you have donated .
“ That says a lot about him as a person .
Put football aside , that has come from his heart and it is something that should definitely be recognised.
” Domestic football is suspended until April 30 at the earliest , although it is extremely likely that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said on Wednesday that the Champions League has been halted indefinitely .
Walker said that , while it is frustrating for players and fans alike , the bigger picture is far more important .
“ It is plain and simple , ” he said .
“ Follow the guidelines .
It is important that we all do our part here .
“ Even if you are not affected or showing symptoms , don ’ t take it for granted .
Stay indoors , keep washing your hands , keep following the protocols and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has to take a back step for now because that is the least important thing on everyone ’ s mind in the football world .
“ The health of family members and other people ’ s family members is the most important .
But , I hope , and I am sure everybody else hopes , that football will come back and we will be able to finish off the season , but if it is not a possibility , then everyone does understand that people ’ s health is more important than @ @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Kyle Walker dropped manager Pep Guardiola a special text message as Manchester City wait out the coronavirus lockdown.
The Blues star, like all of his teammates and Guardiola, is self-isolating in a bid to beat the global pandemic.
And, while the players are making full use of social networking and internet games to keep the camaraderie rolling, the boss is not part of that.
But Walker has revealed that he sent the Catalan a message after hearing about his generous 1million euros donation to the health service fighting the deadly bug in Barcelona.
“Obviously Pep is not in the group chat!” said Walker. “I dropped him a text message last night saying hope you are OK, and I hope the family is well and fair play for donating the amount of money that you have donated.
“That says a lot about him as a person. Put football aside, that has come from his heart and it is something that should definitely be recognised.”
Domestic football is suspended until April 30 at the earliest, although it is extremely likely that will have to be extended, and Uefa said on Wednesday that the Champions League has been halted indefinitely.
Walker said that, while it is frustrating for players and fans alike, the bigger picture is far more important.
“It is plain and simple,” he said. “Follow the guidelines. It is important that we all do our part here.
Follow chief City writer Stuart Brennan on social media To follow Stuart on Twitter, click here. Or to like his Facebook page and keep up to date with the latest breaking news, click here. Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Manchester City Facebook page where we share our latest Blues news.
“Even if you are not affected or showing symptoms, don’t take it for granted. Stay indoors, keep washing your hands, keep following the protocols and just protect the NHS.
“Football has to take a back step for now because that is the least important thing on everyone’s mind in the football world.
“The health of family members and other people’s family members is the most important. But, I hope, and I am sure everybody else hopes, that football will come back and we will be able to finish off the season, but if it is not a possibility, then everyone does understand that people’s health is more important than a game of sport.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Man City evening headlines as Blues receive Leroy Sane boost

Leroy Sane was just returning to fitness before football was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak .
He started training with the team earlier this season and was set to be eased back in to the team ahead of the run-in .
That , obviously , has been put on hold , but as Ilkay Gundogan explained this week , Sane is ‘ feeling good ’ and can use the extra time to focus on gaining full fitness before football returns .
“ He 's feeling good , '' the Manchester City midfielder said .
“ It 's a weird @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to return but from my experience dealing with all the injuries I had , especially the first weeks being close to being back on the pitch with the team is a difficult situation because you have different feelings in your body and your body has to get used to it again .
“ With the exercises and all the training you ca n't be really 100 per cent ready when you 're not in your rhythm .
Leroy was just at that point where he still felt kind of weird not 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was so motivated to come back and do well .
“ He 's also a little bit frustrated that we have everything cancelled for the moment but on the other side you can also use the time now to work on the things he has struggled with a little bit and I see him doing good exercises in the gym so it 's a weird situation for him I guess.
” A joint statement issued by the Premier League , FA , EFL and FSA on Wednesday said : “ We are all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game we love - but only when it is safe to do so .
“ Amid the current uncertainty , supporters will understandably have a number of questions relating to the season and the clubs they follow , and there are no quick answers to how and when we will return to what used to be our football normality.
” The letter also praised the response of clubs and supporters to work together amid the pandemic .
It continued : “ Many supporters ’ groups across the country have also shown just how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official supporters ’ trusts raising tens of thousands of pounds in their local communities , donating to local foodbanks , delivering care packages and helping NHS staff.
” Quite when football will return is unknown at this present stage , but the authorities are expressing the importance of following the government guidelines before any competitive play can resume .
This week , Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk hosted an Ask me Anything on Twitter .
One user asked the Dutchman to name the player he finds hardest to mark .

Ilkay Gundogan provides Leroy Sane update
Leroy Sane was just returning to fitness before football was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak. He started training with the team earlier this season and was set to be eased back in to the team ahead of the run-in.
That, obviously, has been put on hold, but as Ilkay Gundogan explained this week, Sane is ‘feeling good’ and can use the extra time to focus on gaining full fitness before football returns.
“He's feeling good," the Manchester City midfielder said. “It's a weird situation for him because he was quite close to return but from my experience dealing with all the injuries I had, especially the first weeks being close to being back on the pitch with the team is a difficult situation because you have different feelings in your body and your body has to get used to it again.
“With the exercises and all the training you can't be really 100 per cent ready when you're not in your rhythm. Leroy was just at that point where he still felt kind of weird not 100 per cent ready but obviously mentally he was so motivated to come back and do well.
“He's also a little bit frustrated that we have everything cancelled for the moment but on the other side you can also use the time now to work on the things he has struggled with a little bit and I see him doing good exercises in the gym so it's a weird situation for him I guess.”
Premier League letter outlines coronavirus response
A joint statement issued by the Premier League, FA, EFL and FSA on Wednesday said: “We are all committed to getting back to playing the game we love - but only when it is safe to do so.
“Amid the current uncertainty, supporters will understandably have a number of questions relating to the season and the clubs they follow, and there are no quick answers to how and when we will return to what used to be our football normality.”
The letter also praised the response of clubs and supporters to work together amid the pandemic.
It continued: “Many supporters’ groups across the country have also shown just how valuable they are. We have seen official supporters’ trusts raising tens of thousands of pounds in their local communities, donating to local foodbanks, delivering care packages and helping NHS staff.”
Quite when football will return is unknown at this present stage, but the authorities are expressing the importance of following the government guidelines before any competitive play can resume.
Virgil van Dijk names Sergio Aguero as most difficult opponent
This week, Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk hosted an Ask me Anything on Twitter. One user asked the Dutchman to name the player he finds hardest to mark.
Van Dijk replied with an emphatic, one-word answer: ‘Aguero’.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Manchester United evening headlines as Van Persie sets challenge for Solskjaer

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no stranger to a challenge .
And now he is laying down the gauntlet to fellow superstar Paul Pogba .
With football suspended for the time being and most players across the globe training in isolation , Zlatan has an idea up his sleeve to keep himself and his fans entertained during these football-less times .
On social media , the AC Milan striker challenged Pogba to a skills challenge .
“ Paul Pogba I know you have skills , ” Ibrahimovic wrote .
“ But I know I have skills also .
I want to challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
” The pair were teammates in Manchester during Zlatan ’ s year-and-a-half with the club .
Perhaps we could now see the two compete against one another .
Up until last summer , Manchester United ’ s recruitment post-Sir Alex Ferguson had largely been poor .
Former striker Robin van Persie believes that United ’ s problems in the transfer market stemmed from chasing ‘ star names ’ and lacking a ‘ philosophy ’ of recruiting players to fit in with the overall approach of the team .
“ If you compare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appointed and players were selected who fit in with the football philosophy , not from marketing motives , van Persie told SoFoot .
`` They built the club on a coach ’ s sporting project.
” “ At Manchester United , they gamble on star names like Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez , ” the former United centre-forward continued .
“ That ’ s one way .
It is risky .
If such a player gets injured or does not fit , the whole team is vulnerable , while having a philosophy like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collective power.
” “ The challenge for Manchester United is to see if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can successfully establish a philosophy of his own . ''
The Premier League , FA , EFL and FSA have published a letter outlining football ’ s response to the coronavirus outbreak .
In it , they state that they intend to complete the current season , but will only do so when it is entirely safe .
“ We are all committed to getting back to playing the game we love - but only when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter explained .
“ Amid the current uncertainty , supporters will understandably have a number of questions relating to the season and the clubs they follow , and there are no quick answers to how and when we will return to what used to be our football normality.
” The letter also urged fans to follow Government advice during the COVID-19 outbreak , while also praising the impact that supporters groups and clubs have had in aiding the most vulnerable in society .
“ Many supporters ’ groups across the country have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the letter said .
“ We have seen official supporters ’ trusts raising tens of thousands of pounds in their local communities , donating to local foodbanks , delivering care packages and helping NHS staff.
” These are strange times and it could be a while until football returns , but the sport ’ s governing bodies will follow the advice of the government before looking to put the sport back on show .
Until then , however , they have urged everyone to follow the official advice .

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
Zlatan challenges Pogba
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no stranger to a challenge. And now he is laying down the gauntlet to fellow superstar Paul Pogba.
With football suspended for the time being and most players across the globe training in isolation, Zlatan has an idea up his sleeve to keep himself and his fans entertained during these football-less times.
On social media, the AC Milan striker challenged Pogba to a skills challenge. “Paul Pogba I know you have skills,” Ibrahimovic wrote. “But I know I have skills also. I want to challenge you in a skill contest. Afraid?”
The pair were teammates in Manchester during Zlatan’s year-and-a-half with the club. Perhaps we could now see the two compete against one another.
Van Persie wants a philosophy from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Up until last summer, Manchester United’s recruitment post-Sir Alex Ferguson had largely been poor.
Former striker Robin van Persie believes that United’s problems in the transfer market stemmed from chasing ‘star names’ and lacking a ‘philosophy’ of recruiting players to fit in with the overall approach of the team.
“If you compare it to Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp was appointed and players were selected who fit in with the football philosophy, not from marketing motives, van Persie told SoFoot. "They built the club on a coach’s sporting project.”
“At Manchester United, they gamble on star names like Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez,” the former United centre-forward continued.
“That’s one way. It is risky. If such a player gets injured or does not fit, the whole team is vulnerable, while having a philosophy like Liverpool and not Manchester United creates enormous collective power.”
“The challenge for Manchester United is to see if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can successfully establish a philosophy of his own."
Premier League letter outlines coronavirus response
The Premier League, FA, EFL and FSA have published a letter outlining football’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. In it, they state that they intend to complete the current season, but will only do so when it is entirely safe.
“We are all committed to getting back to playing the game we love - but only when it is safe to do so,” the letter explained.
“Amid the current uncertainty, supporters will understandably have a number of questions relating to the season and the clubs they follow, and there are no quick answers to how and when we will return to what used to be our football normality.”
The letter also urged fans to follow Government advice during the COVID-19 outbreak, while also praising the impact that supporters groups and clubs have had in aiding the most vulnerable in society.
“Many supporters’ groups across the country have also shown just how valuable they are,” the letter said. “We have seen official supporters’ trusts raising tens of thousands of pounds in their local communities, donating to local foodbanks, delivering care packages and helping NHS staff.”
These are strange times and it could be a while until football returns, but the sport’s governing bodies will follow the advice of the government before looking to put the sport back on show. Until then, however, they have urged everyone to follow the official advice.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Man City told Harry Kane asking price and more transfer rumours

Tottenham Hotspur have set their asking price for star striker Harry Kane at £200million amid speculation he could leave the club , according to reports .
Manchester City have been among the sides linked with a move for Kane in recent weeks , as they could be on the lookout for a new striker when the transfer window opens .
The England captain fuelled the rumours by admitting on Instagram over the weekend that he could leave Spurs , saying : `` If I do n't feel we are progressing as a team or going in the right direction , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the sake of it . ''
Kane committed his future to Spurs in 2018 by signing a six-year contract that runs until 2024 , but the team has fallen a long way since they reached the Champions League final last May , with the club having sacked Mauricio Pochettino and now facing an uphill battle just to qualify for next season 's Champions League .
According to the Daily Mail , Tottenham are confident of keeping Kane after valuing their talisman at £200million .
However , it is claimed Spurs know they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to retain him if they do n't finish in the Premier League 's top four .
The report states that Kane sees competing in Europe 's top competition as vital for his career and that Spurs ' failure to qualify could push him to leave his boyhood club .
The 26-year-old has been mooted as a possible replacement for Sergio Aguero when the Argentine leaves City , with Aguero 's contract at the Etihad set to expire in 2021 .
Meanwhile , Juventus are reportedly interested in City 's Gabriel Jesus , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily Star , claim that the Brazilian is on a four-man shortlist to improve the Old Lady 's attacking options , alongside Kane , Mauro Icardi and Timo Werner .
Jesus ' agent , Giovanni Branchini , recently refused to rule out a future move to Juventus for Jesus but confirmed he would not leave the Blues unless he was unwanted .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Tottenham Hotspur have set their asking price for star striker Harry Kane at £200million amid speculation he could leave the club, according to reports.
Manchester City have been among the sides linked with a move for Kane in recent weeks, as they could be on the lookout for a new striker when the transfer window opens.
The England captain fuelled the rumours by admitting on Instagram over the weekend that he could leave Spurs, saying: "If I don't feel we are progressing as a team or going in the right direction, I am not someone to stay there for the sake of it."
Kane committed his future to Spurs in 2018 by signing a six-year contract that runs until 2024, but the team has fallen a long way since they reached the Champions League final last May, with the club having sacked Mauricio Pochettino and now facing an uphill battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League.
According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham are confident of keeping Kane after valuing their talisman at £200million.
However, it is claimed Spurs know they will have a battle on their hands to retain him if they don't finish in the Premier League's top four.
The report states that Kane sees competing in Europe's top competition as vital for his career and that Spurs' failure to qualify could push him to leave his boyhood club.
The 26-year-old has been mooted as a possible replacement for Sergio Aguero when the Argentine leaves City, with Aguero's contract at the Etihad set to expire in 2021.
Meanwhile, Juventus are reportedly interested in City's Gabriel Jesus, according to reports.
Tuttosport, via the Daily Star, claim that the Brazilian is on a four-man shortlist to improve the Old Lady's attacking options, alongside Kane, Mauro Icardi and Timo Werner.
Jesus' agent, Giovanni Branchini, recently refused to rule out a future move to Juventus for Jesus but confirmed he would not leave the Blues unless he was unwanted.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Jamie Redknapp names Kevin De Bruyne as his player of the season

Former Liverpool captain Jamie Redknapp has named Manchester City ’ s Kevin De Bruyne as his player of the season .
Although City look certain to lose their Premier League title to Liverpool when football returns , De Bruyne has still shone in the top flight this season .
The Belgian has registered 16 assists in the league and is just four short of Thierry Henry 's record of 20 from the 2002/03 campaign .
Redknapp also believes De Bruyne is the best passer of the ball in Premier League history , and has opened up on how some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the midfielder this season .
`` There have been some outstanding performances this season .
But Kevin De Bruyne has been absolutely outstanding , ” the former Liverpool man told Sky Sports .
`` His statistics this year have been his best ever , and if the rest of the City side had been as consistent as him , they 'd probably be in contention with Liverpool .
`` For me , De Bruyne 's assists and goals really make him stand out for me .
His numbers are just far and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ If it does go to somebody outside of the Liverpool team , he is the only person you can really mention , because he has been that good , and has shone like a star in that City side at the moment .
`` I would say he 's the best Premier League passer I 've seen , and that 's including David Beckham , Paul Scholes , all of them , because he has the variation of passing .
`` If we finish the season , he will break Thierry Henry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : `` I love the way he plays , he just makes the game look so easy .
All the great players I 've played with over the years - John Barnes , Paul Gascoigne , Paul Scholes - they look like they 've got more time than anybody else , and that 's what De Bruyne possesses , it 's like time stands still when he has the ball .
`` He always has that extra moment of relaxation while everyone else is panicking , and I think that 's what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Even with my Liverpool affiliation , I 've just been in awe of what Kevin De Bruyne has done this season . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Former Liverpool captain Jamie Redknapp has named Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne as his player of the season.
Although City look certain to lose their Premier League title to Liverpool when football returns, De Bruyne has still shone in the top flight this season.
The Belgian has registered 16 assists in the league and is just four short of Thierry Henry's record of 20 from the 2002/03 campaign.
Redknapp also believes De Bruyne is the best passer of the ball in Premier League history, and has opened up on how some of his performances have left him in awe of the midfielder this season.
"There have been some outstanding performances this season. But Kevin De Bruyne has been absolutely outstanding,” the former Liverpool man told Sky Sports.
"His statistics this year have been his best ever, and if the rest of the City side had been as consistent as him, they'd probably be in contention with Liverpool.
"For me, De Bruyne's assists and goals really make him stand out for me. His numbers are just far and away better than anyone else's.
“If it does go to somebody outside of the Liverpool team, he is the only person you can really mention, because he has been that good, and has shone like a star in that City side at the moment.
"I would say he's the best Premier League passer I've seen, and that's including David Beckham, Paul Scholes, all of them, because he has the variation of passing.
"If we finish the season, he will break Thierry Henry's assist record 20."
Redknapp added: "I love the way he plays, he just makes the game look so easy. All the great players I've played with over the years - John Barnes, Paul Gascoigne, Paul Scholes - they look like they've got more time than anybody else, and that's what De Bruyne possesses, it's like time stands still when he has the ball.
"He always has that extra moment of relaxation while everyone else is panicking, and I think that's what sets him apart for me.
"Even with my Liverpool affiliation, I've just been in awe of what Kevin De Bruyne has done this season."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Large fire breaks out at commercial premises

A large fire has broken out at a warehouse in Adlington , with toxic smoke 'billowing ' towards Bolton .
Fire crews from Lancashire and Greater Manchester rushed to the scene in Huyton Road , Chorley just after 6pm .
Eight fire engines are have been battling the blaze at a textile manufacturing warehouse throughout the evening .
Firefighters are warning residents to keep their doors shut as large volumes of toxic smoke drift from the property to the wider area .
Crews are expected to be fighting the fire into the early hours of the morning .
The roof @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as seen in pictures taken above the industrial estate .
People in the area have reported hearing 'loud bangs ' as the fire rages on .
At 10.30pm , incident commander Phil Jones from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service gave an update , asking everyone to stay indoors .
He said : “ The fire is involving a single storey textile manufacturing warehouse , where the full building is involved in fire .
“ At the height of the fire , we have got eight fire engines with a mix between Lancashire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fire and Rescue Service .
“ We were also assisted with special appliances from both fire and rescue services - these are aerial ladder platforms , stinger appliances and high volume pumps .
“ We know have the fire surrounded .
But I would like to continue the support from the public and ask that you stay indoors due to the toxic smoken given off by the incident .
“ We plan to be at the incident for the next number of hours , maybe into tomorrow.
” The smoke can be seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Blackrod .
Eyewitness Steve Laycock , based in Blackrod , said : `` There are still numerous appliances on site .
`` Dark smoke can be seen billowing from the site in a largely easterly direction towards the Middlebrook and Horwich . ''
Bolton resident Suraka Martinez says she has been told by police to keep her windows shut : `` A lot of smoke like a fog on the street at the smell is bad .
`` Been told by police to keep all doors and windows shut as the smoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the M.E.N he heard 'loud bangs ' when he came across the fire while walking : `` The fire smelled real bad .
`` There was a couple of loud bangs when we were there so we left . ''
At 7.30pm this evening , Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service tweeted : `` We are currently dealing with a large fire at a commercial premises in Adlington , Chorley .
`` Eight fire engines are in attendance including fire engines from Manchester Fire .
`` Our Stinger and ALP are also in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of smoke in the area so keep doors shut . ''
Firefighters have warned the public to stay well away from the area as they continue tackle the blaze .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
A large fire has broken out at a warehouse in Adlington, with toxic smoke 'billowing' towards Bolton.
Fire crews from Lancashire and Greater Manchester rushed to the scene in Huyton Road, Chorley just after 6pm.
Eight fire engines are have been battling the blaze at a textile manufacturing warehouse throughout the evening.
Firefighters are warning residents to keep their doors shut as large volumes of toxic smoke drift from the property to the wider area.
Crews are expected to be fighting the fire into the early hours of the morning.
The roof of the building appears to have caved-in, as seen in pictures taken above the industrial estate.
People in the area have reported hearing 'loud bangs' as the fire rages on.
At 10.30pm, incident commander Phil Jones from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service gave an update, asking everyone to stay indoors.
He said: “The fire is involving a single storey textile manufacturing warehouse, where the full building is involved in fire.
(Image: Steve Laycock)
“At the height of the fire, we have got eight fire engines with a mix between Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
“We were also assisted with special appliances from both fire and rescue services - these are aerial ladder platforms, stinger appliances and high volume pumps.
“We know have the fire surrounded. But I would like to continue the support from the public and ask that you stay indoors due to the toxic smoken given off by the incident.
“We plan to be at the incident for the next number of hours, maybe into tomorrow.”
The smoke can be seen stretching across Bolton, particularly in Horwich and Blackrod.
Eyewitness Steve Laycock, based in Blackrod, said: "There are still numerous appliances on site.
(Image: Steve Laycock)
"Dark smoke can be seen billowing from the site in a largely easterly direction towards the Middlebrook and Horwich."
(Image: Lancashire Fire and Resuce Service)
Bolton resident Suraka Martinez says she has been told by police to keep her windows shut: "A lot of smoke like a fog on the street at the smell is bad.
"Been told by police to keep all doors and windows shut as the smoke is toxic."
(Image: Ellie Maher)
Passer-by Keele Howcroft told the M.E.N he heard 'loud bangs' when he came across the fire while walking: "The fire smelled real bad.
"There was a couple of loud bangs when we were there so we left."
At 7.30pm this evening, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service tweeted: "We are currently dealing with a large fire at a commercial premises in Adlington, Chorley.
"Eight fire engines are in attendance including fire engines from Manchester Fire.
"Our Stinger and ALP are also in attendance.
"There is a lot of smoke in the area so keep doors shut."
Firefighters have warned the public to stay well away from the area as they continue tackle the blaze.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Nearly a million new Universal Credit claims made in two weeks

The Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) has processed almost 950,000 claims for universal credit in two weeks .
Applications for the benefit have soared since Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the UK in lockdown last week .
The new figures come as charities warn that credit loans could create a `` coronavirus debt crisis . ''
Claimants currently have to wait five weeks for a first payment after applying for the benefit , but can take out an advanced loan to help .
The Salvation Army said this could plunge thousands of citizens into debt .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has seen a surge in benefits claims , with nearly 950,000 new claims since March 16 .
Around a quarter , 70,000 out of around 270,000 Universal Credit applications in one week , applied for an advance payment .
The Work and Pensions committee wrote to the DWP on March 25 asking how many of those who applied for a payment since March 16 had received it , and the average length of time they waited .
It has not yet received a response .
Rebecca Keating , the Salvation Army ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The Universal Credit loan system could cause a coronavirus debt crisis .
“ Thousands of people who never thought they would have to rely on state support are now making a Universal Credit claim .
“ Many of these will be forced to take out the bridging loan which will just move their money problems five weeks down the line .
“ We are particularly concerned by those working on zero hour contracts that don ’ t have the same legal rights of other employees .
“ Many will not have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into debt straight away.
” Requiring a loan could mean people are left with having to choose between buying food or repaying the funds , the Salvation Army said .
Before the coronavirus pandemic , the organisation said it has seen an increase in people using food banks so they can put money toward paying off their loan .
Ms Keating continued : “ Not only will this add stress for people already struggling with the fall-out from the pandemic , but also leave a lasting legacy if too many people are shouldering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pensions committee chairman , Stephen Timms , said : “ The Secretary of State should look very carefully at this proposal from the Salvation Army , which is based on their experience of helping some of the most vulnerable people in society in the midst of a global pandemic .
“ In the current crisis , it ’ s simply not sustainable for the DWP to force people to choose between suffering hardship now or struggling to repay debts for months to come .
“ Those who can will surely be tempted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of infection for them and those around them.
” A DWP spokesman said : “ Advances allow people to access money within the first few days of their claim .
“ There are safeguards in place to ensure repayments are affordable .
“ Universal Credit is providing a vital safety net for hundreds of thousands of people whose lives have been disrupted by this emergency – we ’ ve processed almost 950,000 new claims in two weeks .
“

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 Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has processed almost 950,000 claims for universal credit in two weeks.
Applications for the benefit have soared since Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the UK in lockdown last week.
The new figures come as charities warn that credit loans could create a " coronavirus debt crisis."
Claimants currently have to wait five weeks for a first payment after applying for the benefit, but can take out an advanced loan to help.
The Salvation Army said this could plunge thousands of citizens into debt.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the DWP has seen a surge in benefits claims, with nearly 950,000 new claims since March 16.
Around a quarter, 70,000 out of around 270,000 Universal Credit applications in one week, applied for an advance payment.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
The Work and Pensions committee wrote to the DWP on March 25 asking how many of those who applied for a payment since March 16 had received it, and the average length of time they waited.
It has not yet received a response.
Rebecca Keating, the Salvation Army’s director of employment plus, said: “The Universal Credit loan system could cause a coronavirus debt crisis.
“Thousands of people who never thought they would have to rely on state support are now making a Universal Credit claim.
“Many of these will be forced to take out the bridging loan which will just move their money problems five weeks down the line.
“We are particularly concerned by those working on zero hour contracts that don’t have the same legal rights of other employees.
“Many will not have a financial safety net to help avoid getting into debt straight away.”
Requiring a loan could mean people are left with having to choose between buying food or repaying the funds, the Salvation Army said.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Before the coronavirus pandemic, the organisation said it has seen an increase in people using food banks so they can put money toward paying off their loan.
Ms Keating continued: “Not only will this add stress for people already struggling with the fall-out from the pandemic, but also leave a lasting legacy if too many people are shouldering too much avoidable debt.”
Work and pensions committee chairman, Stephen Timms, said: “The Secretary of State should look very carefully at this proposal from the Salvation Army, which is based on their experience of helping some of the most vulnerable people in society in the midst of a global pandemic.
“In the current crisis, it’s simply not sustainable for the DWP to force people to choose between suffering hardship now or struggling to repay debts for months to come.
“Those who can will surely be tempted to keep working instead – increasing the risk of infection for them and those around them.”
A DWP spokesman said: “Advances allow people to access money within the first few days of their claim.
“There are safeguards in place to ensure repayments are affordable.
“Universal Credit is providing a vital safety net for hundreds of thousands of people whose lives have been disrupted by this emergency – we’ve processed almost 950,000 new claims in two weeks. “


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Drive-through testing centre for NHS workers could open at Manchester Airport

A drive-through coronavirus testing station for NHS workers could be set up near Manchester Airport , the M.E.N .
understands .
Currently the government is ‘ scaling up ’ the national effort around testing for the virus , its approach to which has received widespread criticism .
At this afternoon ’ s Downing Street press conference officials announced plans for five initial drive-through testing centres , focused initially on the NHS frontline .
While their locations were not announced , it understood one of those being actively looked at is a car park owned by Manchester Airport , proposed partly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That could be similar to one already announced by pharmacy giant Boots in Nottingham earlier this week Insiders suggested it would initially test the most critical NHS staff if it gets the go-ahead , focusing on ICU nurses and other workers needed for the frontline battle against the virus .
Government has faced repeated criticism for the slow pace of key worker testing , highlighted again today at the Greater Manchester mayor ’ s weekly press conference on the pandemic .
Andy Burnham repeatedly stressed that the research and development sector in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innovation - was ready to support the national effort and said a testing site was needed in the region .
“ Testing is central to this situation , ” he said of rising case numbers , but also growing public sector absence as a result of people having to self isolate without knowing for sure whether they have the virus .
Currently between 15pc and 20pc of the public sector workforce is unable to work , many of them because they have a partner self isolating and are unable to be sure whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percentage is even higher in parts of Greater Manchester Police .
“ Greater Manchester stands ready to help in a national effort to get testing capacity up to the level required , ” added the mayor .
“ I ’ ve spoken with Dame Nancy Rothwell , vice chancellor of Manchester University , and she 's talking to other universities on this .
“ Together with the NHS , which is very much aligned with our universities , we are doing all we can to mobilise staff , laboratory space and chemical reagents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That offer goes out from Greater Manchester to the government , we stand ready to help in any way we can.
” Manchester council leader Sir Richard Leese , who leads on health for the region , also said current testing efforts are ‘ nowhere near enough ’ .
Multiple insiders also said firms and laboratories in the region were more than willing to develop and carry out tests .
Government says it has already launched a partnership with universities , research institutes and companies to roll out a new network across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tests a day for key workers , beginning with the NHS .
It intends to reach 25,000 tests a day , although that now appears to be getting rolled out in phases .
At the Downing Street press conference today the government was once again grilled on its testing regime , which is a fraction of that carried out in some other countries , including Germany .
Prof Yvonne Doyle , medical director at Public Health England , insisted testing is being scaled up - adding that NHS chief executives were now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority for the scheme .
`` The intention is to get from thousands to hundreds of thousands of tests in the coming weeks , '' she added .

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
A drive-through coronavirus testing station for NHS workers could be set up near Manchester Airport, the M.E.N. understands.
Currently the government is ‘scaling up’ the national effort around testing for the virus, its approach to which has received widespread criticism.
At this afternoon’s Downing Street press conference officials announced plans for five initial drive-through testing centres, focused initially on the NHS frontline.
While their locations were not announced, it understood one of those being actively looked at is a car park owned by Manchester Airport, proposed partly due to its good transport connections.
That could be similar to one already announced by pharmacy giant Boots in Nottingham earlier this week
Insiders suggested it would initially test the most critical NHS staff if it gets the go-ahead, focusing on ICU nurses and other workers needed for the frontline battle against the virus.
Government has faced repeated criticism for the slow pace of key worker testing, highlighted again today at the Greater Manchester mayor’s weekly press conference on the pandemic.
(Image: AP Photo)
Andy Burnham repeatedly stressed that the research and development sector in the region - which is known for health innovation - was ready to support the national effort and said a testing site was needed in the region.
“Testing is central to this situation,” he said of rising case numbers, but also growing public sector absence as a result of people having to self isolate without knowing for sure whether they have the virus.
Currently between 15pc and 20pc of the public sector workforce is unable to work, many of them because they have a partner self isolating and are unable to be sure whether they have the virus themselves. That percentage is even higher in parts of Greater Manchester Police.
“Greater Manchester stands ready to help in a national effort to get testing capacity up to the level required,” added the mayor.
“I’ve spoken with Dame Nancy Rothwell, vice chancellor of Manchester University, and she's talking to other universities on this.
“Together with the NHS, which is very much aligned with our universities, we are doing all we can to mobilise staff, laboratory space and chemical reagents to support the national testing effort.
“That offer goes out from Greater Manchester to the government, we stand ready to help in any way we can.”
(Image: PA)
Manchester council leader Sir Richard Leese, who leads on health for the region, also said current testing efforts are ‘nowhere near enough’.
Multiple insiders also said firms and laboratories in the region were more than willing to develop and carry out tests.
Government says it has already launched a partnership with universities, research institutes and companies to roll out a new network across the country, aimed at providing thousands of tests a day for key workers, beginning with the NHS.
It intends to reach 25,000 tests a day, although that now appears to be getting rolled out in phases.
At the Downing Street press conference today the government was once again grilled on its testing regime, which is a fraction of that carried out in some other countries, including Germany.
Prof Yvonne Doyle, medical director at Public Health England, insisted testing is being scaled up - adding that NHS chief executives were now identifying the workers who would be top priority for the scheme.
"The intention is to get from thousands to hundreds of thousands of tests in the coming weeks," she added.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Manchester United transfer target James Maddison praises two Man Utd players

Leicester City midfielder James Maddison listed two Manchester United stars when he was asked to name the best player he has played with during his career .
The 23-year-old is on United 's radar this summer after another eye-catching campaign for Brendan Rodgers ' top-four chasers , during which he has scored six goals and provided three assists in the Premier League .
Widely regarded to be one of the best creative midfielders in the top-flight , Maddison has courted plenty of attention and has now teased United fans on social media .
During a Q & A session on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to name the best player he has played with but could n't cut it down to just one .
Instead , he listed five players that he has played with at club and international level - including two members of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's United squad .
Harry Maguire , who played alongside Maddison at Leicester before moving to Old Trafford last summer , was one of the United players shortlisted , alongside Marcus Rashford - with both being teammates of Maddison 's on the international stage .
Leicester striker Jamie Vardy also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the form of Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho - again an international colleague of Maddison 's .
The final player named was Norwich City veteran Wes Hoolahan .
Maddison played alongside Hoolahan before his transfer to Leicester City .

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
Leicester City midfielder James Maddison listed two Manchester United stars when he was asked to name the best player he has played with during his career.
The 23-year-old is on United's radar this summer after another eye-catching campaign for Brendan Rodgers' top-four chasers, during which he has scored six goals and provided three assists in the Premier League.
Widely regarded to be one of the best creative midfielders in the top-flight, Maddison has courted plenty of attention and has now teased United fans on social media.
During a Q&A session on Instagram, the England international was asked to name the best player he has played with but couldn't cut it down to just one.
Instead, he listed five players that he has played with at club and international level - including two members of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's United squad.
Harry Maguire, who played alongside Maddison at Leicester before moving to Old Trafford last summer, was one of the United players shortlisted, alongside Marcus Rashford - with both being teammates of Maddison's on the international stage.
Leicester striker Jamie Vardy also featured along with another United target in the form of Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho - again an international colleague of Maddison's.
The final player named was Norwich City veteran Wes Hoolahan. Maddison played alongside Hoolahan before his transfer to Leicester City.