themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Bury health bosses on the changes that will affect patients

Bury health bosses have announced their new ways of dealing with patients .
Patients will be offered a telephone or video consultation initially and may be asked to go to a GP practice that is not their own if they do require a face to face appointment .
NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group ( CCG ) said this is to minimise risk created by coronavirus .
Dr. Jeff Schryer , local GP and chair of Bury CCG , said : `` In order to keep patients and our staff safe , and to ensure face to face appointments are available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are working in a different way .
`` If your GP can safely provide your care remotely , over the phone or online via a video consultation , they will .
This will help to minimise the risk whilst continuing to ensure patients can access the care they need . ''
Dr Schryer also asked people to not stockpile prescribed medicines , instead only requesting what they usually would .
He added : `` Practices are seeing an increased demand from patients for repeat prescriptions , more than we would normally expect .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ worrying and causing people concern , that ’ s human nature , unfortunately additional medicines requests are putting more pressure on our GP Practices , community pharmacies and medicines supplies .
`` I would urge patients to only order what they usually would , to ensure access to medicines remains available for everyone that needs them.
” GP Practices are also seeing an increase in patients requesting ‘ rescue packs ’ of antibiotics and oral steroids for respiratory conditions , such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) .
Dr Schryer urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are usually prescribed as part of an agreed management plan .
“ If you have asthma or another respiratory condition , continue to manage it in the usual way , '' Dr Schryer said .
`` Rescue packs should only be used for those people who have previously been prescribed them to manage flare ups of COPD as part of their agreed management plan .
`` Please do n't contact your GP Practice for a rescue pack unless you 've previously been prescribed one.
” The NHS website has the latest up-to-date @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
Bury health bosses have announced their new ways of dealing with patients.
Patients will be offered a telephone or video consultation initially and may be asked to go to a GP practice that is not their own if they do require a face to face appointment.
NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said this is to minimise risk created by coronavirus.
Dr. Jeff Schryer, local GP and chair of Bury CCG, said: "In order to keep patients and our staff safe, and to ensure face to face appointments are available for patients that need them, we are working in a different way.
"If your GP can safely provide your care remotely, over the phone or online via a video consultation, they will. This will help to minimise the risk whilst continuing to ensure patients can access the care they need."
Dr Schryer also asked people to not stockpile prescribed medicines, instead only requesting what they usually would.
He added: "Practices are seeing an increased demand from patients for repeat prescriptions, more than we would normally expect.
"We understand the current situation is worrying and causing people concern, that’s human nature, unfortunately additional medicines requests are putting more pressure on our GP Practices, community pharmacies and medicines supplies.
"I would urge patients to only order what they usually would, to ensure access to medicines remains available for everyone that needs them.”
GP Practices are also seeing an increase in patients requesting ‘rescue packs’ of antibiotics and oral steroids for respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Dr Schryer urged people to avoid requesting these, unless they are usually prescribed as part of an agreed management plan.
“If you have asthma or another respiratory condition, continue to manage it in the usual way," Dr Schryer said.
Interested in Bury? Like our new Facebook page - My Bury - to keep up with all the latest news, events and features. You can also follow us on Twitter.
"Rescue packs should only be used for those people who have previously been prescribed them to manage flare ups of COPD as part of their agreed management plan.
"Please don't contact your GP Practice for a rescue pack unless you've previously been prescribed one.”
The NHS website has the latest up-to-date advice.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--New rules on buying Easter eggs from supermarkets and shops

Earlier this week , reports were released that shop owners had faced criticism from local authorities for stocking Easter eggs - as they were deemed 'non-essential ' items and therefore not necessary .
Some independent shop owners claimed that their local council officers had tried to tell them what they can and can ’ t sell , with items such as hot cross buns and Easter eggs on that list .
However , the Association of Convenience Stores ( ACS ) has now cleared things up , and has told members to continue selling Easter goodies as normal .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Easter egg for a loved one or for yourself , there 's no rules preventing you from doing so .
However , if possible you should aim to purchase Easter eggs as part of your 'essential ' shop , as this will prevent the need for an extra trip out of the house that could potentially put yourself , others , and the NHS at risk .
Some websites such as Cadbury and Amazon are still selling eggs , though these are now considered 'non-essential ' items and have been de-prioritised for delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll receive them in time for Easter ( which falls on Sunday 12 April this year ) .
ACS chief executive James Lowman said : `` The government have defined which stores can remain open , and that includes convenience stores including newsagents and off licences .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
`` There is no government definition of which products can be sold within those stores .
`` This is overzealous enforcement and a misreading of the rules .
`` In the cases where officers have challenged retailers and shoppers in this way , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the busiest weeks of their lives , and increased the interactions between people at a time when the government is trying to minimise them .
“ Our assured advice scheme exists precisely for moments like this when local enforcement officers may be interpreting rules in their own way and coming up with incorrect approaches .
`` Our published advice to retailers - that they can sell whatever they would normally be selling - can be relied on by anyone signed up to our assured advice scheme , and we advise any retailer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal range , and to contact us with the name of the local authority or police force and officer so we can follow up with them . ''

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
Earlier this week, reports were released that shop owners had faced criticism from local authorities for stocking Easter eggs - as they were deemed 'non-essential' items and therefore not necessary.
Some independent shop owners claimed that their local council officers had tried to tell them what they can and can’t sell, with items such as hot cross buns and Easter eggs on that list.
However, the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has now cleared things up, and has told members to continue selling Easter goodies as normal.
That means if you want to buy an Easter egg for a loved one or for yourself, there's no rules preventing you from doing so.
However, if possible you should aim to purchase Easter eggs as part of your 'essential' shop, as this will prevent the need for an extra trip out of the house that could potentially put yourself, others, and the NHS at risk.
Some websites such as Cadbury and Amazon are still selling eggs, though these are now considered 'non-essential' items and have been de-prioritised for delivery, so there's no guarantee you'll receive them in time for Easter (which falls on Sunday 12 April this year).
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: "The government have defined which stores can remain open, and that includes convenience stores including newsagents and off licences.
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.
"There is no government definition of which products can be sold within those stores.
"This is overzealous enforcement and a misreading of the rules.
"In the cases where officers have challenged retailers and shoppers in this way, it’s brought confusion, distracted retailers in the busiest weeks of their lives, and increased the interactions between people at a time when the government is trying to minimise them.
“Our assured advice scheme exists precisely for moments like this when local enforcement officers may be interpreting rules in their own way and coming up with incorrect approaches.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Our published advice to retailers - that they can sell whatever they would normally be selling - can be relied on by anyone signed up to our assured advice scheme, and we advise any retailer facing this challenge to continue seeking their normal range, and to contact us with the name of the local authority or police force and officer so we can follow up with them."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Council to hold one-off green bin collection before service is stopped

Green bins containing garden and food waste will be collected from Manchester residents one last time before the service is stopped for the foreseeable future .
Due to staffing shortages caused by the pandemic , the city council announced last week that household waste and other recycling would be prioritised over green bins .
But a one-off collection has now been scheduled between Monday April 6 and Friday April 10 to make sure any stored-up organic waste is taken away .
Households which would normally have put out their brown recycling during this period have been asked to put out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bins will not be emptied .
Once this round of collection is over , food and garden waste must be disposed of in grey rubbish bins until further notice .
Coun Rabnawaz Akbar , executive member for neighbourhoods , said : “ Reduced staffing levels due the COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately mean that we have had no choice but to announce a temporary end to collection of green garden and food waste bins .
“ However , we have listened to residents who told us that they would benefit from a final collection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contractors to carry this out in the coming days .
“ We ’ re so grateful to our fantastic bin crews for the vital work they ’ re doing at this time and to householders for their cooperation , patience and continuing efforts to recycle as much as possible , ensuring that they make the most of their waste capacity during this unprecedented situation.
” Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https : //www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/ Get breaking news first on the free Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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
Green bins containing garden and food waste will be collected from Manchester residents one last time before the service is stopped for the foreseeable future.
Due to staffing shortages caused by the pandemic, the city council announced last week that household waste and other recycling would be prioritised over green bins.
But a one-off collection has now been scheduled between Monday April 6 and Friday April 10 to make sure any stored-up organic waste is taken away.
Households which would normally have put out their brown recycling during this period have been asked to put out their green bins instead, as brown bins will not be emptied.
Once this round of collection is over, food and garden waste must be disposed of in grey rubbish bins until further notice.
Coun Rabnawaz Akbar, executive member for neighbourhoods, said: “Reduced staffing levels due the COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately mean that we have had no choice but to announce a temporary end to collection of green garden and food waste bins.
“However, we have listened to residents who told us that they would benefit from a final collection of their green bins and have instructed our contractors to carry this out in the coming days.
“We’re so grateful to our fantastic bin crews for the vital work they’re doing at this time and to householders for their cooperation, patience and continuing efforts to recycle as much as possible, ensuring that they make the most of their waste capacity during this unprecedented situation.”
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here. And you can follow us on Facebook here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Loss of smell and taste could be strongest symptom of coronavirus

Loss of smell and taste could be strongest symptom of coronavirus , UK researchers have said .
A new continuous cough or a high temperature - of 37.8 degrees or higher - had been classed as two of the main signs that you have , or have had , Covid-19 .
Fatigue , chest tightness , and difficulty breathing are also amongst reported symptoms from those that have recovered from the virus .
However , some of those people have also mentioned suffering a loss of taste and smell .
Scientists at King 's College London have been tracking symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.8 million people had logged their symptoms , or lack of , prior to the end of March .
Results showed that 59 % of the 1.5 million people who had signed up by March 29 and tested positive reported a loss of smell and taste , compared with 18 % of those who tested negative , analysis of the data showed .
Researchers said the reports of those symptoms were much stronger in predicting a positive Covid-19 diagnosis than self-reported fever .
The team behind the Covid Symptom Tracker App has now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms , including loss of smell and taste , fever , persistent cough , fatigue , diarrhoea , abdominal pain and loss of appetite , and said the strongest predictor is loss of smell and taste .
Last week the World Health Organisation 's Dr Maria Van Kerkhove said there had been `` quite a few '' reports about people in the early stages of disease maybe losing sense of smell or taste .
But she added that `` this is something that we need to look in to , to really capture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the signs of Covid-19 '' .
Lead researcher Professor Tim Spector from King ’ s College , said : `` When combined with other symptoms , people with loss of smell and taste appear to be three times more likely to have contracted Covid-19 according to our data , and should therefore self-isolate for seven days to reduce the spread of the disease . ''
He said their research is helping to track where the virus is , before the effects are felt by the NHS , and encouraged people to continue or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they feel well .
Earlier this week Sir Patrick Vallance , Government Chief Scientific Adviser , told the daily press briefing that that the symptom 'does seem to feature ' and that it is something that can happen among other respiratory viruses .
He said : `` The symptoms that the chief medical officer has outlined are the ones that you self isolate on , which are persistent new cough and/or fever .
`` Loss of taste and smell is something that can happen with other respiratory viruses as well .
It does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from what people are reporting and it is obviously something that people should take into account as they think about their symptoms . ''
He added : `` I think it 's really for the chief medical officers to decide at what point if any diagnostic change takes place in terms of self isolation .
And in symptoms , we are going to get more information on them over time .
`` But new persistent cough or fever captures the vast majority of people with this illness . ''

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
Loss of smell and taste could be strongest symptom of coronavirus, UK researchers have said.
A new continuous cough or a high temperature - of 37.8 degrees or higher - had been classed as two of the main signs that you have, or have had, Covid-19.
Fatigue, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing are also amongst reported symptoms from those that have recovered from the virus.
However, some of those people have also mentioned suffering a loss of taste and smell.
Scientists at King's College London have been tracking symptoms via their specially-created app.
More than 1.8 million people had logged their symptoms, or lack of, prior to the end of March.
Results showed that 59% of the 1.5 million people who had signed up by March 29 and tested positive reported a loss of smell and taste, compared with 18% of those who tested negative, analysis of the data showed.
Researchers said the reports of those symptoms were much stronger in predicting a positive Covid-19 diagnosis than self-reported fever.
The team behind the Covid Symptom Tracker App has now created a model featuring a combination of symptoms, including loss of smell and taste, fever, persistent cough, fatigue, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and loss of appetite, and said the strongest predictor is loss of smell and taste.
Last week the World Health Organisation's Dr Maria Van Kerkhove said there had been "quite a few" reports about people in the early stages of disease maybe losing sense of smell or taste.
But she added that "this is something that we need to look in to, to really capture to see whether this is one of the signs of Covid-19".
Lead researcher Professor Tim Spector from King’s College, said: "When combined with other symptoms, people with loss of smell and taste appear to be three times more likely to have contracted Covid-19 according to our data, and should therefore self-isolate for seven days to reduce the spread of the disease."
He said their research is helping to track where the virus is, before the effects are felt by the NHS, and encouraged people to continue or start logging their symptoms, even if they feel well.
Earlier this week Sir Patrick Vallance, Government Chief Scientific Adviser, told the daily press briefing that that the symptom 'does seem to feature' and that it is something that can happen among other respiratory viruses.
He said: "The symptoms that the chief medical officer has outlined are the ones that you self isolate on, which are persistent new cough and/or fever.
"Loss of taste and smell is something that can happen with other respiratory viruses as well. It does seem to be a feature of this from what people are reporting and it is obviously something that people should take into account as they think about their symptoms."
He added: "I think it's really for the chief medical officers to decide at what point if any diagnostic change takes place in terms of self isolation. And in symptoms, we are going to get more information on them over time.
"But new persistent cough or fever captures the vast majority of people with this illness."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Manchester United's seven centre-backs ranked best to worst

It should come as little surprise that Manchester United are being touted for centre-back transfers .
They are being linked with dozens of players , as they always are , with the current break from football due to coronavirus prompting increased numbers of spurious transfer rumours in the press .
Quite frankly , there is little else to talk about .
Juventus ' Matthijs de Ligt and Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly are the more recent high-profile names to be mentioned , though MEN Sport understands a centre-back is not United 's priority in the upcoming summer window .
Besides , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre-backs ( including those out on loan ) to choose from next season .
Debate was stirred on social media earlier this week about the order in which they ranked .
So here , MEN Sport ranks all of United 's current centre-backs in ascending order ... Jones is much maligned by many United supporters , often unfairly , therefore it feels a little harsh to put him bottom of this list .
And the former Blackburn man has enjoyed some excellent performances in a United shirt , but it appears to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Jones ' recent stint in the United side earlier this season bordered on the disastrous , with clumsy displays against Sheffield United and Man City .
He 's not a bad defender , he just needs a new start .
There have been times when Rojo has looked the real deal at United , the player the club were so keen to sign after he shone in the 2014 World Cup with Argentina .
Yet a penchant for the rash and reckless - and the yellow cards to boot - has meant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trusted Rojo .
That has clearly been the case with Solskjaer , who was happy to sanction the Argentine 's loan move to boyhood club Estudiantes in January .
Now 30 and having had his fair share of injury issues at Old Trafford , it looks likely that Rojo will leave permanently in the near future .
Some may have the United youngster higher on their list , given he clearly has the potential to improve - and we would have seen that ability more this season were it not for injury .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in all competitions for the United first team and just six league starts .
But he thrived on loan at Aston Villa , has spoken ambitiously about what he wants to achieve at United .
He 's still one for the future .
Of all the players on this list , the situation with Smalling is perhaps the most intriguing .
The England centre-back is now 30 , but has enjoyed a very solid spell on loan at Roma .
And although he was deemed by Solskjaer - as he was by Three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requirements , he still clearly has plenty to offer .
Smalling is dependable , mature and a good reader of the game and among the better central defenders on United 's books .
It may be , however , that his future lies elsewhere , with Arsenal and Everton linked , though he could extend his Serie A stay .
The enigma .
If Bailly could just stay fit for a prolonged period , he may well be top of this list .
He needs just consistency and a slightly cooler head at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no more natural defender in the United squad , as Bailly showed with an imperious display on his return to the side against Chelsea .
The Ivorian is still only 25 and worth persisting with .
It feels , somehow , as though Lindelof is underrated by many United supporters - despite the fact he was among the club 's best players in the 2018/19 campaign and could have won the player of the year award .
But the past season has been one of stagnation rather than regression , with Lindelof struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when United 's defence began to improve .
The Swede is highly regarded by Solskjaer and is building a solid partnership with Maguire at the back so merits his spot as the club 's second best centre-back .
United may not have got full value ( yet ) for the £80million they paid to Leicester City for Maguire last summer .
But they must be getting close , with the England international having quickly established himself as a senior player for United .
He 's now captain and has been responsible for Solskjaer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their past 11 matches .
Maguire is clearly United 's best centre-back and is part of the reason they look unlikely to move for De Ligt or Koulibaly .

It should come as little surprise that Manchester United are being touted for centre-back transfers.
They are being linked with dozens of players, as they always are, with the current break from football due to coronavirus prompting increased numbers of spurious transfer rumours in the press. Quite frankly, there is little else to talk about.
Juventus' Matthijs de Ligt and Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly are the more recent high-profile names to be mentioned, though MEN Sport understands a centre-back is not United's priority in the upcoming summer window.
Besides, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer currently has seven senior centre-backs (including those out on loan) to choose from next season. Debate was stirred on social media earlier this week about the order in which they ranked.
So here, MEN Sport ranks all of United's current centre-backs in ascending order...
7. Phil Jones
Jones is much maligned by many United supporters, often unfairly, therefore it feels a little harsh to put him bottom of this list. And the former Blackburn man has enjoyed some excellent performances in a United shirt, but it appears to be time for him to find pastures new.
Jones' recent stint in the United side earlier this season bordered on the disastrous, with clumsy displays against Sheffield United and Man City. He's not a bad defender, he just needs a new start.
6. Marcos Rojo
There have been times when Rojo has looked the real deal at United, the player the club were so keen to sign after he shone in the 2014 World Cup with Argentina. Yet a penchant for the rash and reckless - and the yellow cards to boot - has meant a succession of United bosses haven't trusted Rojo.
That has clearly been the case with Solskjaer, who was happy to sanction the Argentine's loan move to boyhood club Estudiantes in January. Now 30 and having had his fair share of injury issues at Old Trafford, it looks likely that Rojo will leave permanently in the near future.
5. Axel Tuanzebe
Some may have the United youngster higher on their list, given he clearly has the potential to improve - and we would have seen that ability more this season were it not for injury.
The 22-year-old has only made 18 appearances in all competitions for the United first team and just six league starts. But he thrived on loan at Aston Villa, has spoken ambitiously about what he wants to achieve at United. He's still one for the future.
4. Chris Smalling
Of all the players on this list, the situation with Smalling is perhaps the most intriguing. The England centre-back is now 30, but has enjoyed a very solid spell on loan at Roma. And although he was deemed by Solskjaer - as he was by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate - surplus to requirements, he still clearly has plenty to offer.
Smalling is dependable, mature and a good reader of the game and among the better central defenders on United's books.
It may be, however, that his future lies elsewhere, with Arsenal and Everton linked, though he could extend his Serie A stay.
3. Eric Bailly
The enigma. If Bailly could just stay fit for a prolonged period, he may well be top of this list. He needs just consistency and a slightly cooler head at times.
There is, arguably, no more natural defender in the United squad, as Bailly showed with an imperious display on his return to the side against Chelsea. The Ivorian is still only 25 and worth persisting with.
2. Victor Lindelof
It feels, somehow, as though Lindelof is underrated by many United supporters - despite the fact he was among the club's best players in the 2018/19 campaign and could have won the player of the year award.
But the past season has been one of stagnation rather than regression, with Lindelof struggling for consistency until the late January period when United's defence began to improve.
The Swede is highly regarded by Solskjaer and is building a solid partnership with Maguire at the back so merits his spot as the club's second best centre-back.
1. Harry Maguire
United may not have got full value (yet) for the £80million they paid to Leicester City for Maguire last summer. But they must be getting close, with the England international having quickly established himself as a senior player for United.
He's now captain and has been responsible for Solskjaer's defence recording nine clean sheets in their past 11 matches.
Maguire is clearly United's best centre-back and is part of the reason they look unlikely to move for De Ligt or Koulibaly.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--The Premier League letter that will affect Man United and City fans

The Premier League and FA have told supporters that they are committed to getting football back underway , but will only do so when it is safe .
Manchester United and Manchester City are currently training individually as the country is on lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The domestic season is suspended until April 30 at least , with the Champions League and Europa League suspended until further notice .
There is no plan in place to finish the season at the moment , but the Euro 2020 tournament has been postponed to give UEFA associations more time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a letter has been sent to supporters on behalf of the Football Supporter 's Association , Premier League , EFL and FA to update fans on when football may resume .
The letter also calls upon fans to continue to follow government advice to stay safe and they have praised the community work clubs are currently doing to help vulnerable members of society .
Regarding a possible return date for the season , the letter says football will only return when it is safe to do so , and that supporters will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Message to Football Supporters from the FSA , Premier League , EFL and The FA We Can All Play Our Part COVID-19 has presented a hugely challenging and uncertain time for everyone and our thoughts are with all those directly affected by the pandemic .
The Government ’ s message is clear - stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Football Supporters ’ Association ( FSA ) , Premier League , EFL and The FA want to reiterate that clubs and their supporters have a vital role to play in supporting the Government ’ s guidance and ensuring community strength and solidarity .
While there is no football , our sport can still play its part .
Clubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , fans and volunteers supporting those most in need in their local towns and cities .
Fans can keep up to date with how the and clubs are providing wide-ranging support for their communities , including the provision of facilities for medical use and accommodation for NHS staff .
Clubs are also supporting foodbanks , transporting medicines and food and telephoning the most vulnerable members of society .
Many supporters ’ groups across the country have also shown just how valuable they are .
We have seen official supporters ’ trusts raising tens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities , donating to local foodbanks , delivering care packages and helping NHS staff .
Read more about the great work undertaken .
The work of clubs , staff , volunteers and fans is making a difference to those in need .
The FSA , Premier League , EFL and The FA encourage all clubs and supporters ’ groups to remain in contact during this difficult time and , where possible , support one another in their community efforts .
We also extend our gratitude to those football supporters who are key workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support on a volunteer basis .
We urge fans across the country to follow the ongoing Government advice , to provide us all with the best opportunity to keep fans and communities safe .
It is also important to note that any official communications will come from the Government and football authorities themselves .
Please follow our for this information .
As the situation is regularly changing , the Premier League , EFL and The FA will continue to consult the FSA and keep supporters updated on the progress made as soon as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once again , for your continued patience , work and support .

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
The Premier League and FA have told supporters that they are committed to getting football back underway, but will only do so when it is safe.
Manchester United and Manchester City are currently training individually as the country is on lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. The domestic season is suspended until April 30 at least, with the Champions League and Europa League suspended until further notice.
There is no plan in place to finish the season at the moment, but the Euro 2020 tournament has been postponed to give UEFA associations more time to complete the 2019/20 competitions.
Now, a letter has been sent to supporters on behalf of the Football Supporter's Association, Premier League, EFL and FA to update fans on when football may resume. The letter also calls upon fans to continue to follow government advice to stay safe and they have praised the community work clubs are currently doing to help vulnerable members of society.
Regarding a possible return date for the season, the letter says football will only return when it is safe to do so, and that supporters will be considered when a decision is made.
Read the letter below:
Message to Football Supporters from the FSA, Premier League, EFL and The FA
We Can All Play Our Part
COVID-19 has presented a hugely challenging and uncertain time for everyone and our thoughts are with all those directly affected by the pandemic. The Government’s message is clear - stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives.
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 Football Supporters’ Association (FSA), Premier League, EFL and The FA want to reiterate that clubs and their supporters have a vital role to play in supporting the Government’s guidance and ensuring community strength and solidarity. While there is no football, our sport can still play its part.
Clubs and supporters have responded magnificently with staff, fans and volunteers supporting those most in need in their local towns and cities. Fans can keep up to date with how the Premier League and EFL clubs are providing wide-ranging support for their communities, including the provision of facilities for medical use and accommodation for NHS staff. Clubs are also supporting foodbanks, transporting medicines and food and telephoning the most vulnerable members of society.
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. Read more about the great work undertaken here .
The work of clubs, staff, volunteers and fans is making a difference to those in need. The FSA, Premier League, EFL and The FA encourage all clubs and supporters’ groups to remain in contact during this difficult time and, where possible, support one another in their community efforts. We also extend our gratitude to those football supporters who are key workers, and those who have offered their support on a volunteer basis.
We urge fans across the country to follow the ongoing Government advice, to provide us all with the best opportunity to keep fans and communities safe.
It is also important to note that any official communications will come from the Government and football authorities themselves. Please follow our official channels for this information.
As the situation is regularly changing, the Premier League, EFL and The FA will continue to consult the FSA and keep supporters updated on the progress made as soon as is practically possible.
Thank you, once again, for your continued patience, work and support.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--People should not be punished for travelling 'reasonable distance' to exercise

New guidance has been issued to police forces on when it is acceptable to punish people for traveling .
It comes as some forces were criticised for heavy-handed tactics in enforcing social distancing rules .
Police forces have been told by the National Police Chiefs ’ Council ( NPCC ) and the College of Policing that people should not be sanctioned for travelling a “ reasonable distance ” to exercise .
The new guidance also states that road checks on every vehicle are “ disproportionate ” .
Officers have been urged to use `` common sense '' and to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The guidance says : “ Use your judgement and common sense ; for example , people will want to exercise locally and may need to travel to do so , we don ’ t want the public sanctioned for travelling a reasonable distance to exercise .
“ Road checks on every vehicle is equally disproportionate .
We should reserve enforcement only for individuals who have not responded to engage , explain , and encourage , where public health is at risk.
” People have been told to stay at home unless they need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home for medical needs or if they have to go to work .
The government says it is also acceptable to leave home for exercise once a day .
Officers can fine anybody seen flouting the rules and are being told to break up social gatherings of more than two people .
But some forces have been criticised for their approach to the guidelines .
Derbyshire Police faced a backlash for filming walkers with drones to deter visitors to the Peak District , while North Yorkshire Police stopped motorists at “ checkpoints ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peter Goodman defended the tactic and said he wanted to start a “ conversation ” after elderly residents were left “ frightened to death ” following an influx of visitors the previous weekend .
The updated guidance says policing should be “ by consent ” with the initial response to “ encourage voluntary compliance ” .
It states that `` enforcement should be a last resort ” .
Some forces say they have not yet had to use the new powers brought in , while others have issued large numbers of fines already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had not used the new powers once , while Lancashire Police issued 123 fines for breaches of the rules over the weekend .

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
New guidance has been issued to police forces on when it is acceptable to punish people for traveling.
It comes as some forces were criticised for heavy-handed tactics in enforcing social distancing rules.
Police forces have been told by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing that people should not be sanctioned for travelling a “reasonable distance” to exercise.
The new guidance also states that road checks on every vehicle are “disproportionate”.
Officers have been urged to use "common sense" and to be "consistent" in their tactics.
The guidance says: “Use your judgement and common sense; for example, people will want to exercise locally and may need to travel to do so, we don’t want the public sanctioned for travelling a reasonable distance to exercise.
“Road checks on every vehicle is equally disproportionate. We should reserve enforcement only for individuals who have not responded to engage, explain, and encourage, where public health is at risk.”
People have been told to stay at home unless they need to shop for essentials, leave their home for medical needs or if they have to go to work.
The government says it is also acceptable to leave home for exercise once a day.
Officers can fine anybody seen flouting the rules and are being told to break up social gatherings of more than two people.
But some forces have been criticised for their approach to the guidelines.
Derbyshire Police faced a backlash for filming walkers with drones to deter visitors to the Peak District, while North Yorkshire Police stopped motorists at “checkpoints” last week.
Derbyshire Police Chief Constable Peter Goodman defended the tactic and said he wanted to start a “conversation” after elderly residents were left “frightened to death” following an influx of visitors the previous weekend.
The updated guidance says policing should be “by consent” with the initial response to “encourage voluntary compliance”.
It states that "enforcement should be a last resort”.
Some forces say they have not yet had to use the new powers brought in, while others have issued large numbers of fines already.
Derbyshire Police said on Tuesday it had not used the new powers once, while Lancashire Police issued 123 fines for breaches of the rules over the weekend.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Independiente hopeful of tempting Man City striker Sergio Aguero back

Independiente coach Lucas Pusineri has talked up his friendship with Sergio Aguero as the Argentine club still hope for the Manchester City striker to return .
Aguero began his career at Independiente , spending a decade there starting in the youth team before breaking into the senior side where he was teammates with Pusineri .
Despite continuing a remarkable appetite to score goals at the highest level during his time at Atletico and City , the Blues legend has never hidden his desire to play once again for his first club and has previously described it as a priority .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the summer of 2021 , the 31-year-old has a big decision to make about where his next deal will be .
Independiente are not sure when they will be able to tempt Aguero and AC Milan midfielder Lucas Biglia , but are optimistic it will happen .
`` With Sergio Aguero and Lucas Biglia I have a beautiful relationship , '' Pusineri told InfiernoRojo .
`` We were partners and I have a lot of respect for the trajectories they have taken with Argentina and in Europe as well . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be nice to have them tomorrow .
In the future , it is hopeful to count on them . ''
Aguero may have unfinished business with English football if the current season has to be abandoned .
His goals in this campaign have seen him overtake Thierry Henry to become the most prolific overseas player in Premier League history and move past Alan Shearer to bag the most hat-tricks in the history of the competition , but all contributions would be wiped if the season were to be voided .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Independiente coach Lucas Pusineri has talked up his friendship with Sergio Aguero as the Argentine club still hope for the Manchester City striker to return.
Aguero began his career at Independiente, spending a decade there starting in the youth team before breaking into the senior side where he was teammates with Pusineri.
Despite continuing a remarkable appetite to score goals at the highest level during his time at Atletico and City, the Blues legend has never hidden his desire to play once again for his first club and has previously described it as a priority.
With his contract at the Etihad up in the summer of 2021, the 31-year-old has a big decision to make about where his next deal will be. Independiente are not sure when they will be able to tempt Aguero and AC Milan midfielder Lucas Biglia, but are optimistic it will happen.
"With Sergio Aguero and Lucas Biglia I have a beautiful relationship," Pusineri told InfiernoRojo.
"We were partners and I have a lot of respect for the trajectories they have taken with Argentina and in Europe as well."
He added: "Of course it would be nice to have them tomorrow. In the future, it is hopeful to count on them."
Aguero may have unfinished business with English football if the current season has to be abandoned. His goals in this campaign have seen him overtake Thierry Henry to become the most prolific overseas player in Premier League history and move past Alan Shearer to bag the most hat-tricks in the history of the competition, but all contributions would be wiped if the season were to be voided.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--£44m, 156-acre RHS Bridgewater has opening pushed back by almost a year

The opening of the country 's fifth national gardens in Salford has been put back almost a year due to the COVID-19 crisis .
The £44m RHS Bridgewater , which covers 156-acres , was due to welcome visitors on July 30 this year but will now not open until May 2021 .
Planting and preparation had been in full swing for the garden , which will transform the grounds of the former Worsley New Hall , off Leigh Road , Worsley .
It is seen as a potential huge boost to the region 's economy with between 700,000 and 1m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Horticultural Society announced today that the opening has been postponed to Tuesday 11 May 2021 due to the impact of the ongoing Covid-19 situation .
In a statement the RHS said : `` To ensure the health and safety of its staff and contractors and following UK Government advice regarding social distancing , the RHS has been operating at limited capacity at its Salford site , delaying the build of its fifth garden which was originally due to open this July .
`` The new Government measures have paused some projects and slowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spring 2021 , the creation of RHS Garden Bridgewater will bring so many health and wellbeing benefits to local people and beyond . ''
Head of Garden , Richard Green , said : `` The decision to postpone the opening was not easy , but our biggest priority is the health and safety of our team , so it 's the right one to take .
`` In addition to suspending our volunteering programme , we 've also implemented a new rota system for our garden team , which means only half the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
`` This ensures we can continue work on the garden while safely observing government social distancing guidelines , but inevitably it does mean that progress will be considerably slower .
`` Delaying means that we can hopefully move beyond the uncertainty of these challenging times and celebrate the coming of spring and brighter warner days with the opening of a truly great garden . ''
Sue Biggs , RHS Director General , says : “ Whilst this is disappointing news for so many , we know that everyone will understand why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As with every decision we make , the health and safety of our employees and contractors is paramount .
“ RHS Garden Bridgewater will now open the week before RHS Chelsea Flower Show , meaning that in May 2021 the RHS will be doing more than ever in its history to promote gardening , growing and horticulture to support nurseries , growers , the horticultural industry and really get the nation gardening .
`` I think everyone now knows how important this is for our health and the environment so what better way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British horticulture at its finest.
” Salford council has already committed £19m to the garden .
This includes paying land owners Peel £9m for the site .
Another £4.8m was sought from other backers .
Further development of the site could push up the overall cost up to £70m if all the plans come to fruition - including the dream of a tropical house .
Most of the charity 's gardens are deep in the countryside , but Bridgewater has the potential to bring kudos , opportunity , and a horticultural revolution to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be encouraged to play in the woodland area and engage in nature .
Food grown in the garden will be sold in the cafe .
There will also be a community garden nutured by local groups .
RHS also has a grand plan for forging links with schools , providing apprenticeships , training , and hosting , potentially , a horticultural college .
RHS Garden Wisley , RHS Garden Harlow Carr , RHS Garden Rosemoor and RHS Garden Hyde Hall remain closed and will re-open to visitors when the government says it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https : //www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/

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 opening of the country's fifth national gardens in Salford has been put back almost a year due to the COVID-19 crisis.
The £44m RHS Bridgewater, which covers 156-acres, was due to welcome visitors on July 30 this year but will now not open until May 2021.
Planting and preparation had been in full swing for the garden, which will transform the grounds of the former Worsley New Hall, off Leigh Road, Worsley.
It is seen as a potential huge boost to the region's economy with between 700,000 and 1m visitors expected each year.
The Royal Horticultural Society announced today that the opening has been postponed to Tuesday 11 May 2021 due to the impact of the ongoing Covid-19 situation.
In a statement the RHS said: "To ensure the health and safety of its staff and contractors and following UK Government advice regarding social distancing, the RHS has been operating at limited capacity at its Salford site, delaying the build of its fifth garden which was originally due to open this July.
"The new Government measures have paused some projects and slowed others and when it does open in Spring 2021, the creation of RHS Garden Bridgewater will bring so many health and wellbeing benefits to local people and beyond."
Head of Garden, Richard Green, said: "The decision to postpone the opening was not easy, but our biggest priority is the health and safety of our team, so it's the right one to take.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
"In addition to suspending our volunteering programme, we've also implemented a new rota system for our garden team, which means only half the team is on site at any one time.
"This ensures we can continue work on the garden while safely observing government social distancing guidelines, but inevitably it does mean that progress will be considerably slower.
"Delaying means that we can hopefully move beyond the uncertainty of these challenging times and celebrate the coming of spring and brighter warner days with the opening of a truly great garden."
(Image: HODDER AND PARTNERS)
Sue Biggs, RHS Director General, says: “Whilst this is disappointing news for so many, we know that everyone will understand why we had to make this delay. As with every decision we make, the health and safety of our employees and contractors is paramount.
“RHS Garden Bridgewater will now open the week before RHS Chelsea Flower Show, meaning that in May 2021 the RHS will be doing more than ever in its history to promote gardening, growing and horticulture to support nurseries, growers, the horticultural industry and really get the nation gardening.
"I think everyone now knows how important this is for our health and the environment so what better way to celebrate the return of Spring and British horticulture at its finest.”
Salford council has already committed £19m to the garden. This includes paying land owners Peel £9m for the site.
Another £4.8m was sought from other backers.
Further development of the site could push up the overall cost up to £70m if all the plans come to fruition - including the dream of a tropical house.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Most of the charity's gardens are deep in the countryside, but Bridgewater has the potential to bring kudos, opportunity, and a horticultural revolution to Salford and the region.
Children will be encouraged to play in the woodland area and engage in nature. Food grown in the garden will be sold in the cafe. There will also be a community garden nutured by local groups.
RHS also has a grand plan for forging links with schools, providing apprenticeships, training, and hosting, potentially, a horticultural college.
RHS Garden Wisley, RHS Garden Harlow Carr, RHS Garden Rosemoor and RHS Garden Hyde Hall remain closed and will re-open to visitors when the government says it is safe to do so.
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--Should you keep your nails short during the coronavirus outbreak?

As the coronavirus outbreak continues people are being reminded about the importance of washing our hands to help stop the spread of the virus .
But what do we do about our nails ?
Last month , an Australian health worker warned that having long nails could accelerate the spread of coronavirus .
The health worker said that this is because they can harbour germs , bacteria and even the virus underneath .
She said in a Facebook post : `` Among all the hand-washing instructions and the fun 20-second song suggestions , I have n't seen anyone note that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ properly if your fingernails are long . ''
`` If you ca n't put your fingernails straight down against your other palm without your nails adding too much distance to do it , you can not wash under your fingernails properly unless you use a nail brush every time .
`` If you ca n't rub the very ends of your fingers against the other palm , then your hands are n't truly clean after you wash them , no matter how long you soap up . ''
This has led to people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to BBC Radio 2 's Jeremy Vine show who asked if this was fake .
GP and clinical director of Patient.info , Dr Sarah Jarvis , told listeners on Tuesday that this is in fact the case and she herself has followed the advice .
She said : `` If you are cleaning your nails , if you dig your nails , rub your hands/tips of your fingers into the palm of your hand you will get rid of a lot of the virus and using plenty of soap and water will help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , keeping your nails short will help more . ''
Public Health England does not have specific advice when it comes to nails but it has been clear in its hand washing guidance .
Times to be particularly aware of hand hygiene is when : • you get to work or arrive home • after you blow your nose , cough or sneeze • before you eat or handle food You should wash your hands for 20 seconds - the length of singing 'Happy Birthday ' to yourself twice - with soap and @ @ @ @ @

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
As the coronavirus outbreak continues people are being reminded about the importance of washing our hands to help stop the spread of the virus.
But what do we do about our nails?
Last month, an Australian health worker warned that having long nails could accelerate the spread of coronavirus.
The health worker said that this is because they can harbour germs, bacteria and even the virus underneath.
She said in a Facebook post: "Among all the hand-washing instructions and the fun 20-second song suggestions, I haven't seen anyone note that it is impossible to wash your hands properly if your fingernails are long."
"If you can't put your fingernails straight down against your other palm without your nails adding too much distance to do it, you cannot wash under your fingernails properly unless you use a nail brush every time.
"If you can't rub the very ends of your fingers against the other palm, then your hands aren't truly clean after you wash them, no matter how long you soap up."
This has led to people questioning the advice, with one caller to BBC Radio 2's Jeremy Vine show who asked if this was fake.
GP and clinical director of Patient.info, Dr Sarah Jarvis, told listeners on Tuesday that this is in fact the case and she herself has followed the advice.
She said: "If you are cleaning your nails, if you dig your nails, rub your hands/tips of your fingers into the palm of your hand you will get rid of a lot of the virus and using plenty of soap and water will help.
"But you're quite right, keeping your nails short will help more."
Public Health England does not have specific advice when it comes to nails but it has been clear in its hand washing guidance.
Times to be particularly aware of hand hygiene is when:
you get to work or arrive home
after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze
before you eat or handle food
You should wash your hands for 20 seconds - the length of singing 'Happy Birthday' to yourself twice - with soap and water or hand sanitiser.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Salford gin distillery starts making hand sanitiser to help in coronavirus fight

Salford ’ s Four Sisters gin distillery have started making hand sanitiser for the local authority and key workers - saying they want to ‘ do their bit ’ to help the fight against the coronavirus .
Amid sanitiser shortages across the country , the Salford Quays based distillery - which is made up of four sisters - is largely switching its production to make the much-needed product .
Four Sisters said that they are trying to serve the local community in Salford with their product , with the city council being one of the biggest beneficiaries .
And although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the sisters behind the company told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that hand sanitiser is currently making up some 80pc of their production .
Lucy McAvoy , said : “ We saw others reacting to coronavirus and immediately it struck us that we could help and do our bit too .
And when we researched it and saw who we could help , we had a call from someone with Salford city council and heard that the whole local authority was struggling to get access to the product .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salford - and that means a great deal to us , we ’ re a family business .
We ’ re born and bred in Salford and we wanted to do what we could to help out our local authority.
” She added that they ’ ve already had enquiries from public services like the NHS , as well as care homes and other key workers .
Paul Dennett , Salford ’ s city mayor , wrote on social media : “ Many thanks Four Sisters distillery who are playing a part during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & supplying Salford council with much needed product to support our workforce delivering essential services.
” Salford and Eccles MP Rebecca Long-Bailey wrote on Twitter : “ Fantastic to see so many people working together to support each other at this difficult time .
Well done Four Sisters for producing and supplying Salford city council hand sanitiser for their essential services , and Spirit of Salford network for supporting communities across the city.
” Salford council said : `` They have provided the council with a delivery of sanitiser and we will supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can ’ t access hand washing facilities . ''
The four sisters come from a family of producers - their other siblings make up the Seven Brothers brewing company , who work across the road in Salford Quays .
It 's not the first time that the siblings have got creative to battle covid-19 .
Last month - ahead of tighter self-isolation rules being introduced in the country - they set up a gin and beer drive-thru in Salford that meant customers would not have to leave their cars to collect their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their customers .
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https : //www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/ Many distilleries around the UK have started switching their production to hand sanitiser as they ’ re one of the few businesses that have access to the base alcohol that ’ s needed to make the product work .
Lucy said that they ’ ve started making the sanitiser last week and have been following World Health Organisation guidelines .
And she said that the siblings ’ first hand sanitiser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was given as a gift to their 80 year old mother .

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
Salford’s Four Sisters gin distillery have started making hand sanitiser for the local authority and key workers - saying they want to ‘do their bit’ to help the fight against the coronavirus.
Amid sanitiser shortages across the country, the Salford Quays based distillery - which is made up of four sisters - is largely switching its production to make the much-needed product.
Four Sisters said that they are trying to serve the local community in Salford with their product, with the city council being one of the biggest beneficiaries.
And although the distillery is still producing gin, one of the sisters behind the company told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that hand sanitiser is currently making up some 80pc of their production.
Lucy McAvoy, said: “We saw others reacting to coronavirus and immediately it struck us that we could help and do our bit too. And when we researched it and saw who we could help, we had a call from someone with Salford city council and heard that the whole local authority was struggling to get access to the product.
(Image: Four Sisters distillery)
“This immediately impacts on our local community in Salford - and that means a great deal to us, we’re a family business. We’re born and bred in Salford and we wanted to do what we could to help out our local authority.”
She added that they’ve already had enquiries from public services like the NHS, as well as care homes and other key workers.
Paul Dennett, Salford’s city mayor, wrote on social media: “Many thanks Four Sisters distillery who are playing a part during the coronavirus pandemic by producing hand sanitiser & supplying Salford council with much needed product to support our workforce delivering essential services.”
Salford and Eccles MP Rebecca Long-Bailey wrote on Twitter: “Fantastic to see so many people working together to support each other at this difficult time. Well done Four Sisters for producing and supplying Salford city council hand sanitiser for their essential services, and Spirit of Salford network for supporting communities across the city.”
Salford council said: "They have provided the council with a delivery of sanitiser and we will supply to our workforce delivering essential services where they can’t access hand washing facilities."
The four sisters come from a family of producers - their other siblings make up the Seven Brothers brewing company, who work across the road in Salford Quays.
It's not the first time that the siblings have got creative to battle covid-19.
Last month - ahead of tighter self-isolation rules being introduced in the country - they set up a gin and beer drive-thru in Salford that meant customers would not have to leave their cars to collect their alcohol orders, minising social contact for their customers.
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/
Many distilleries around the UK have started switching their production to hand sanitiser as they’re one of the few businesses that have access to the base alcohol that’s needed to make the product work.
Lucy said that they’ve started making the sanitiser last week and have been following World Health Organisation guidelines.
And she said that the siblings’ first hand sanitiser - dubbed the ‘sisterizer’ - was given as a gift to their 80 year old mother.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Your rights at work during coronavirus. An expert answers questions

The coronavirus has changed the world of work as we know it .
Many people are working home , while others classified as 'key workers ' continue to head into the workplace .
Others , who are older and have underlying health problems , have been told to stay away from work for 12 weeks .
Furlough , a word alien to many people just weeks previously , has become widespread .
It involves a temporary leave of absence for employees , who are paid part of their salary and otherwise may have been made redundant .
The continued spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and employees uncertain about their rights .
Louise Quigley , a barrister specialising in employment Law at Manchester 's 9 St John Street Chambers , has answered some of the frequently asked questions posed by both employers and employees during the current crisis .
My employer is still insisting that I come to work , do I have to ?
What would happen if I refuse ?
`` If you are an employee who has received a letter asking you to stay at home to “ shield ” , then your employer should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work from home or be furloughed .
`` In these circumstances , you would likely be within your rights to refuse to go in , on the basis that it is an unreasonable management request which carries a risk of disciplinary action .
`` If your employer still insists , it would be advisable to raise a grievance and seek professional advice .
`` For employees in vulnerable groups ( pregnant , disabled , over 70 ’ s ) your employer would need to be mindful of its duty of care and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure your health and safety .
`` If home working was an option , you should ask your employer to reconsider , and it would be hard for your employer to argue that your refusal was misconduct .
`` For pregnant employees , your employer should undertake a risk assessment and , in the event , that it could not ensure appropriate social distancing , there may be grounds for medical suspension ( Regulation 16 ( 4 ) Management of Health and Safety at Work ) Regulations 1999 ) .
`` For all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that home working should be allowed wherever possible but , inevitably that means there will be cases where it is reasonable to require an employee to attend work .
`` In those circumstances , if you refused to attend you would be at risk of not being paid and/or being disciplined .
`` If you take the view that it would be impossible to observe the Government ’ s social distancing guidance whilst attending your normal workplace , you should inform your employer accordingly .
`` Again , it would be hard for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was misconduct . ''
How does being furloughed affect my holiday entitlement ?
`` The right to holiday is governed both by the Working Time Regulations 1998 and your contract of employment .
`` A worker can not waive rights to statutory holiday entitlement ( 28 days ) and this will continue to accrue during any period of furlough .
`` If a worker has contractual leave in addition to the 28 days , this would also continue to accrue unless the furlough agreement states otherwise .
`` The recently announced Working Time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 introduced on 27th March 2020 means that , as an exception , workers for whom it is not “ reasonably practicable ” to take some or all leave due to coronavirus will be able to carry it forward into the next year .
`` That means for workers who have holidays booked , but can not go or arguably enjoy their holiday due to coronavirus , they will be able to take it in the next holiday year .
`` This will affect workers in different ways , and it will depend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can not take the holiday and when your holiday year starts and stops . ''
Can I take holidays whilst being on furlough leave ?
`` The Government guidance is that an employee can not “ work ” whilst on furlough leave .
`` As yet , it is not clear whether “ work ” will include being on holiday or not .
`` It is also not clear whether furlough leave can be started and then stopped to enable employees or employers to pick and choose when they are on furlough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the scheme are fully known , there will remain uncertainty .
`` However , it would be possible to make a request to use up any outstanding holidays before any period of furlough leave begins .
`` Your employer would have a discretion to refuse but hopefully agreement could be reached .
`` It is also open to your employer to require workers to take holidays before any period of furlough leave , although notice would need to be given .
`` Your contract of employment may set out what notice your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , your employer must give double the amount of time they are requiring you to take off i.e .
two days leave requires four days ’ notice . ''
I have been selected for furlough , does this mean I will be made redundant ?
`` Part of the reason why the Government has introduced the furlough scheme is to stop companies going out of business and/or making redundancies .
`` Hopefully the scheme will ensure that as many employees as possible keep their jobs .
`` However , there is no guarantee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still need to make redundancies in the future .
`` If that situation does arise , then your employer will need to follow a fair procedure for selecting employees for redundancy .
`` The current guidance as to what is fair or not has not been adjusted to take into account furloughed employees , but it is likely to be adjusted in the future .
`` It is likely to be unfair to select furloughed employees over those who continued to work . ''
`` Unless there is an express contractual right to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff , an employer can not unilaterally furlough a member of staff without risking a breach of contract and a potential employment tribunal claim .
`` However , if you decide to furlough and are paying 100 per cent of wages and maintaining all benefits , agreement may not be required .
`` If you intend to pay less than 100 per cent of wages , then a “ furlough agreement ” would be required , or at least an agreement to vary existing terms and conditions .
`` Advice should be sought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or variation .
`` A “ furlough agreement ” is a variation in contractual terms , and requires the consent of the employee .
`` If a trade union is recognised , they should be consulted .
`` In most circumstances , as the likely alternative is redundancy , it is likely that agreement will be reached .
`` If no agreement can be reached , the employer could give notice to terminate the current contract and offer re-employment on the new terms .
`` Depending on the number of employees , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If this arises it would be advisable to take specialist advice .
`` If the employer simply decides to impose the “ furlough agreement ” , this would create a risk of an unfair or constructive dismissal claim , although this may be a calculated risk . ''
How do employers choose which staff to furlough , and what are the risks ?
`` For lots of businesses , it will not be practical to furlough all staff .
`` Consequently , a system for selecting employees to be furloughed should be devised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divisive , and could give rise to disharmony .
`` A straightforward strategy would be to identify business critical functions , and then how many staff are needed .
`` Staff that fall within the “ shielding ” category can be furloughed as well , and should be taken into consideration .
`` It may be advisable to consult with staff , and obtain their views and potential volunteers for either status .
`` Employers should be alive to the fact that the selection process could be subject to scrutiny , and give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indirect discrimination .
`` It would be advisable to make an impact assessment to identify whether any protected group was more affected than others .
`` As the full details of the scheme have not been announced , depending on the final details it may be possible to rotate who is furloughed and share out the requirement to work amongst the workforce .
`` Who is or is not furloughed should be the subject of review , say every three weeks , and all employees should be made aware of this . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government strongly advises should be allowed to work from home , but their work can not be done remotely .
What should employers do ?
`` This is a difficult category and will be fact specific .
`` There is currently no law that requires employers to allow employees in high risk categories to work at home , but there is an obvious tension between the clear guidance and requiring qualifying employees to be at work .
`` All possible efforts to accommodate home working should be made , and the option of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will also be questionable whether the instruction to attend work is reasonable or not , which will depend on the individual circumstances of the employee and the business .
`` Employers should undertake a risk assessment , and also be mindful of their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 , in particular '' It would be advisable to take specialist advice before insisting on attendance . ''
I have dismissed my employees , can I change my mind and furlough them instead ?
`` The Government announcement indicated that this was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not known at this stage .
`` When an employee is dismissed , it can be overturned by a successful appeal which preserves continuity of employment .
`` It may be possible for dismissed employees to appeal and be reinstated only then to be placed on furlough .
`` However , this could entitle employees to wages between the date of dismissal and the successful appeal .
`` If the appeal mechanism is not used , and if the employees are just re-employed on new contracts , according to the current guidance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless the Government legislates for this .
`` It may be best to wait until further details of the scheme are published or for advice to be taken .
`` The above answers are based on the recent Government announcements and changes in Employment Law , and may be subject to change . ''

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 coronavirus has changed the world of work as we know it.
Many people are working home, while others classified as 'key workers' continue to head into the workplace.
Others, who are older and have underlying health problems, have been told to stay away from work for 12 weeks.
Furlough, a word alien to many people just weeks previously, has become widespread.
It involves a temporary leave of absence for employees, who are paid part of their salary and otherwise may have been made redundant.
The continued spread of the virus has left many employers and employees uncertain about their rights.
Louise Quigley, a barrister specialising in employment Law at Manchester's 9 St John Street Chambers, has answered some of the frequently asked questions posed by both employers and employees during the current crisis.
My employer is still insisting that I come to work, do I have to? What would happen if I refuse?
"If you are an employee who has received a letter asking you to stay at home to “shield”, then your employer should follow government advice and allow you either to work from home or be furloughed.
"In these circumstances, you would likely be within your rights to refuse to go in, on the basis that it is an unreasonable management request which carries a risk of disciplinary action.
"If your employer still insists, it would be advisable to raise a grievance and seek professional advice.
"For employees in vulnerable groups (pregnant, disabled, over 70’s) your employer would need to be mindful of its duty of care and statutory obligations and take appropriate steps to ensure your health and safety.
"If home working was an option, you should ask your employer to reconsider, and it would be hard for your employer to argue that your refusal was misconduct.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"For pregnant employees, your employer should undertake a risk assessment and, in the event, that it could not ensure appropriate social distancing, there may be grounds for medical suspension (Regulation 16(4) Management of Health and Safety at Work) Regulations 1999).
"For all other employees, the government guidance remains that home working should be allowed wherever possible but, inevitably that means there will be cases where it is reasonable to require an employee to attend work.
"In those circumstances, if you refused to attend you would be at risk of not being paid and/or being disciplined.
"If you take the view that it would be impossible to observe the Government’s social distancing guidance whilst attending your normal workplace, you should inform your employer accordingly.
"Again, it would be hard for your employer to argue that your refusal was misconduct."
(Image: Joel Goodman)
How does being furloughed affect my holiday entitlement?
"The right to holiday is governed both by the Working Time Regulations 1998 and your contract of employment.
"A worker cannot waive rights to statutory holiday entitlement (28 days) and this will continue to accrue during any period of furlough.
"If a worker has contractual leave in addition to the 28 days, this would also continue to accrue unless the furlough agreement states otherwise.
"The recently announced Working Time (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 introduced on 27th March 2020 means that, as an exception, workers for whom it is not “reasonably practicable” to take some or all leave due to coronavirus will be able to carry it forward into the next year.
"That means for workers who have holidays booked, but cannot go or arguably enjoy their holiday due to coronavirus, they will be able to take it in the next holiday year.
"This will affect workers in different ways, and it will depend on when leave is booked, why you cannot take the holiday and when your holiday year starts and stops."
Can I take holidays whilst being on furlough leave?
"The Government guidance is that an employee cannot “work” whilst on furlough leave.
"As yet, it is not clear whether “work” will include being on holiday or not.
"It is also not clear whether furlough leave can be started and then stopped to enable employees or employers to pick and choose when they are on furlough or not.
"Until the details of the scheme are fully known, there will remain uncertainty.
"However, it would be possible to make a request to use up any outstanding holidays before any period of furlough leave begins. "Your employer would have a discretion to refuse but hopefully agreement could be reached.
"It is also open to your employer to require workers to take holidays before any period of furlough leave, although notice would need to be given.
"Your contract of employment may set out what notice your employer must give.
"If not, your employer must give double the amount of time they are requiring you to take off i.e. two days leave requires four days’ notice."
I have been selected for furlough, does this mean I will be made redundant?
"Not necessarily.
"Part of the reason why the Government has introduced the furlough scheme is to stop companies going out of business and/or making redundancies.
"Hopefully the scheme will ensure that as many employees as possible keep their jobs.
"However, there is no guarantee, and it may be that companies still need to make redundancies in the future.
"If that situation does arise, then your employer will need to follow a fair procedure for selecting employees for redundancy.
"The current guidance as to what is fair or not has not been adjusted to take into account furloughed employees, but it is likely to be adjusted in the future.
"It is likely to be unfair to select furloughed employees over those who continued to work."
Can employers insist on furloughing staff?
"Unless there is an express contractual right to “furlough” or “lay-off “staff, an employer cannot unilaterally furlough a member of staff without risking a breach of contract and a potential employment tribunal claim.
"However, if you decide to furlough and are paying 100 per cent of wages and maintaining all benefits, agreement may not be required.
"Obvious exceptions would include staff who earn commission.
"If you intend to pay less than 100 per cent of wages, then a “furlough agreement” would be required, or at least an agreement to vary existing terms and conditions.
"Advice should be sought as to the terms of any agreement or variation.
"A “furlough agreement” is a variation in contractual terms, and requires the consent of the employee.
"If a trade union is recognised, they should be consulted.
"In most circumstances, as the likely alternative is redundancy, it is likely that agreement will be reached.
"If no agreement can be reached, the employer could give notice to terminate the current contract and offer re-employment on the new terms.
"Depending on the number of employees, this may trigger collective consultation obligations.
"If this arises it would be advisable to take specialist advice.
"If the employer simply decides to impose the “furlough agreement”, this would create a risk of an unfair or constructive dismissal claim, although this may be a calculated risk."
How do employers choose which staff to furlough, and what are the risks?
"For lots of businesses, it will not be practical to furlough all staff.
"Consequently, a system for selecting employees to be furloughed should be devised.
"This is likely to be divisive, and could give rise to disharmony.
"A straightforward strategy would be to identify business critical functions, and then how many staff are needed.
"Staff that fall within the “shielding” category can be furloughed as well, and should be taken into consideration.
"It may be advisable to consult with staff, and obtain their views and potential volunteers for either status.
"Employers should be alive to the fact that the selection process could be subject to scrutiny, and give rise to claims for either direct or indirect discrimination.
"It would be advisable to make an impact assessment to identify whether any protected group was more affected than others.
"As the full details of the scheme have not been announced, depending on the final details it may be possible to rotate who is furloughed and share out the requirement to work amongst the workforce.
"Who is or is not furloughed should be the subject of review, say every three weeks, and all employees should be made aware of this."
(Image: 9 St John Street Chambers)
An employee is in the category the Government strongly advises should be allowed to work from home, but their work cannot be done remotely. What should employers do?
"This is a difficult category and will be fact specific.
"There is currently no law that requires employers to allow employees in high risk categories to work at home, but there is an obvious tension between the clear guidance and requiring qualifying employees to be at work.
"All possible efforts to accommodate home working should be made, and the option of furloughing staff should be explored.
"It will also be questionable whether the instruction to attend work is reasonable or not, which will depend on the individual circumstances of the employee and the business.
"Employers should undertake a risk assessment, and also be mindful of their obligations under the Equality Act 2010, in particular
in respect of pregnant employees.
"It would be advisable to take specialist advice before insisting on attendance."
I have dismissed my employees, can I change my mind and furlough them instead?
"The Government announcement indicated that this was a possibility, but the mechanism for this is not known at this stage.
"When an employee is dismissed, it can be overturned by a successful appeal which preserves continuity of employment.
"It may be possible for dismissed employees to appeal and be reinstated only then to be placed on furlough.
"However, this could entitle employees to wages between the date of dismissal and the successful appeal.
"If the appeal mechanism is not used, and if the employees are just re-employed on new contracts, according to the current guidance they would not be eligible for furlough unless the Government legislates for this.
"It may be best to wait until further details of the scheme are published or for advice to be taken.
"The above answers are based on the recent Government announcements and changes in Employment Law, and may be subject to change."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--Manchester United might be getting to Mino Raiola amid Matthijs de Ligt links

Maybe Mino Raiola is losing his touch .
That career path he had mapped out for Paul Pogba hit a snag last year when Raiola failed to move his client to Spain , and the agent named Carmine does not have the equanimity of his namesake in The Sopranos .
Zlatan Ibrahimovic said Raiola resembled 'one of the guys in The Sopranos ' at their first meeting and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been binging on Tony Soprano 's trials and tribulations during the lockdown .
There are some choice quotes he could preach to Raiola .
`` Those who want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffice .
Manchester United are rottura di palle with Raiola .
Raiola was so rattled by Solskjaer 's innocuous comment about Pogba in February he embarked on a Twitter tirade - a trap the thinnest-skinned footballers usually avoid these days - and seems to speak more about United more than he does about some of his clients .
`` It 's a club out of touch with reality and without a sporting project , '' he told La Repubblica in the New Year .
`` I would n't take anyone there .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maldini . ''
A penny for Matthijs de Ligt 's thoughts .
There is a whiff of desperation about Raiola if he is genuinely prepared to flog one of his youngest and brightest to a club he has regularly derided .
Raiola has taken pot-shots at Ed Woodward , Ole Gunnar Solskjaer , Gary Neville , Paul Scholes , and ridiculed the lack of a director of football at United .
He has washed his hands of United since he advised Romelu Lukaku to move to them in 2017 .
Already there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Pogba .
As long as Pogba goes to Turin or Madrid , the career plan is back on track , despite the preference for Spain .
The world health crisis will have an undeniable bearing on footballers ' futures .
Raiola has enough money to swim around a vault like Scrooge McDuck 's but usually prioritises the football over the finances .
United , relegated to the Europa League , were too unstable to accommodate De Ligt last year and he sensibly joined Juventus for £67.50million .
Juventus have monopolised Serie A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ axis of the century in Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini .
Chiellini is 35 and Bonucci 32 , and the expectation was - is - De Ligt would phase out that partnership this season .
Chiellini suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage in August but in January Merih Demiral was getting picked ahead of De Ligt after a string of errors .
`` If I had been in the shoes of a fan , I too would have been angry at such errors , '' De Ligt conceded .
There is life in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February , though De Ligt partnered Bonucci in the pivotal 2-0 win over Inter Milan last month .
De Ligt has plenty of history with United .
Jose Mourinho was so respectful of the 17-year-old 's distribution in his analysis of Ajax ahead of the 2017 Europa League final the United forwards were instructed to press him whenever he had the ball , and told to ease off on the less technically proficient Davinson Sanchez .
De Ligt had already hovered onto United 's radar before he debuted for Ajax in August 2016 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recruitment , Derek Langley told the MEN : `` Players that they ( United ) turned down ?
Matthijs de Ligt .
We had God knows how many reports on Matthijs de Ligt .
Frenkie de Jong and all these players now are sort of around Europe .
`` This was one of the reasons why I had a meeting with Ed Woodward and I told him that I was n't convinced with the competency of certain people at the club .
I told Ed Woodward quite straight : 'If you think I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell you what you want to hear , I 'm not that man because I 'm going to tell you exactly how I see it ' .
`` I think it was possibly part of my downfall as to why seven months down the line I was removed because I would n't toe the line in relation to telling them exactly what I thought . ''
Marcel Bout is the only member of Louis van Gaal 's backroom staff to have survived at United and occupied the head of global scouting post for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gaal in deciding transfer targets during a period senior United figures admit the club made 'too many mistakes ' in recruitment .
Boardroom sources retrospectively accept United should have vetoed some of Van Gaal 's suggestions but defended retaining Bout due to his 'niche ' for younger targets and familiarity with Dutch talent .
That caused a commotion with Mourinho after he identified De Ligt as a 'potential ' central defensive target , along with Ruben Dias of Benfica and Fiorentina 's Nikola Milenković in the 2018 summer transfer window .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Giovanni Cera that Bout had reservations about De Ligt 's physique , on account of his supposedly rotund father .
United sources dispute that but Mourinho 's camp are adamant Bout nixed a possible approach for De Ligt prior to his breakthrough season with Ajax .
Like any elite club , United admire De Ligt and Solskjaer is believed to have bracketed him with Harry Maguire , the Napoli enforcer Kalidou Koulibaly , and Liverpool linchpin Virgil van Dijk .
The club never regarded a transfer likely last year , despite encouragement from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with since the early 90s .
Raiola has been in alliance with Pogba for more than eight years and last year was the first time he came up short .
It is just as well the football blackout prevents dictaphones from being thrust at De Ligt to enquire what the hell he thinks of possibly being flogged to a club 'out of touch with reality and without a sporting project ' .
`` We ’ re in a situation where everyone involved knows the stakes and if you are going to accept those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do certain things , '' Tony tells Dr Melfi .
`` It ’ s business . ''
With Raiola , perhaps it really is business and not personal .

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
Maybe Mino Raiola is losing his touch. That career path he had mapped out for Paul Pogba hit a snag last year when Raiola failed to move his client to Spain, and the agent named Carmine does not have the equanimity of his namesake in The Sopranos.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic said Raiola resembled 'one of the guys in The Sopranos' at their first meeting and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been binging on Tony Soprano's trials and tribulations during the lockdown. There are some choice quotes he could preach to Raiola. "Those who want respect, give respect," would suffice.
Manchester United are rottura di palle with Raiola. Raiola was so rattled by Solskjaer's innocuous comment about Pogba in February he embarked on a Twitter tirade - a trap the thinnest-skinned footballers usually avoid these days - and seems to speak more about United more than he does about some of his clients.
"It's a club out of touch with reality and without a sporting project," he told La Repubblica in the New Year. "I wouldn't take anyone there. They would even ruin Maradona, Pele and Maldini."
A penny for Matthijs de Ligt's thoughts. There is a whiff of desperation about Raiola if he is genuinely prepared to flog one of his youngest and brightest to a club he has regularly derided. Raiola has taken pot-shots at Ed Woodward, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, and ridiculed the lack of a director of football at United. He has washed his hands of United since he advised Romelu Lukaku to move to them in 2017.
Already there is a suspicion of a compromise between Raiola and Pogba. As long as Pogba goes to Turin or Madrid, the career plan is back on track, despite the preference for Spain. The world health crisis will have an undeniable bearing on footballers' futures.
Raiola has enough money to swim around a vault like Scrooge McDuck's but usually prioritises the football over the finances. United, relegated to the Europa League, were too unstable to accommodate De Ligt last year and he sensibly joined Juventus for £67.50million.
Juventus have monopolised Serie A and bred possibly the most invulnerable defensive axis of the century in Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini. Chiellini is 35 and Bonucci 32, and the expectation was - is - De Ligt would phase out that partnership this season.
Chiellini suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage in August but in January Merih Demiral was getting picked ahead of De Ligt after a string of errors. "If I had been in the shoes of a fan, I too would have been angry at such errors," De Ligt conceded. There is life in the old warhorse Chiellini, whom returned in February, though De Ligt partnered Bonucci in the pivotal 2-0 win over Inter Milan last month.
De Ligt has plenty of history with United. Jose Mourinho was so respectful of the 17-year-old's distribution in his analysis of Ajax ahead of the 2017 Europa League final the United forwards were instructed to press him whenever he had the ball, and told to ease off on the less technically proficient Davinson Sanchez.
De Ligt had already hovered onto United's radar before he debuted for Ajax in August 2016. United's former head of youth recruitment, Derek Langley told the MEN: "Players that they (United) turned down? Matthijs de Ligt. We had God knows how many reports on Matthijs de Ligt. Frenkie de Jong and all these players now are sort of around Europe.
"This was one of the reasons why I had a meeting with Ed Woodward and I told him that I wasn't convinced with the competency of certain people at the club. I told Ed Woodward quite straight: 'If you think I'm going to sit here and just tell you what you want to hear, I'm not that man because I'm going to tell you exactly how I see it'.
"I think it was possibly part of my downfall as to why seven months down the line I was removed because I wouldn't toe the line in relation to telling them exactly what I thought."
Marcel Bout is the only member of Louis van Gaal's backroom staff to have survived at United and occupied the head of global scouting post for over four years. Bout assisted Van Gaal in deciding transfer targets during a period senior United figures admit the club made 'too many mistakes' in recruitment.
Boardroom sources retrospectively accept United should have vetoed some of Van Gaal's suggestions but defended retaining Bout due to his 'niche' for younger targets and familiarity with Dutch talent. That caused a commotion with Mourinho after he identified De Ligt as a 'potential' central defensive target, along with Ruben Dias of Benfica and Fiorentina's Nikola Milenković in the 2018 summer transfer window.
It was soon communicated to Mourinho and his analyst Giovanni Cera that Bout had reservations about De Ligt's physique, on account of his supposedly rotund father. United sources dispute that but Mourinho's camp are adamant Bout nixed a possible approach for De Ligt prior to his breakthrough season with Ajax.
Like any elite club, United admire De Ligt and Solskjaer is believed to have bracketed him with Harry Maguire, the Napoli enforcer Kalidou Koulibaly, and Liverpool linchpin Virgil van Dijk. The club never regarded a transfer likely last year, despite encouragement from Ajax - whom Raiola has brokered deals with since the early 90s.
Raiola has been in alliance with Pogba for more than eight years and last year was the first time he came up short. It is just as well the football blackout prevents dictaphones from being thrust at De Ligt to enquire what the hell he thinks of possibly being flogged to a club 'out of touch with reality and without a sporting project'.
"We’re in a situation where everyone involved knows the stakes and if you are going to accept those stakes, you’ve got to do certain things," Tony tells Dr Melfi. "It’s business." With Raiola, perhaps it really is business and not personal.