bbc--2020-12-15--Bosman at 25: Who has been the best free transfer?

Last updated on .From the section European Football Decent , if unremarkable , as a player .
An absolute game-changer as a court case .
He wants a Bosman .
The Bosman rule .
We 're signing him on a Bosman .
The change in employment law meant footballers could choose to run down their contracts and move clubs on a free transfer .
With some caveats .
It changed football hugely .
But who have been the best `` Bosmans '' and had the most success ?
Take a look at our list of the best 10 and rank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Contentious ?
I 'll say .
Tottenham offered their England defender a contract that would have made him the highest-paid player but he rejected it and moved down the road to arch rivals Arsenal .
`` It was a big decision , '' Campbell said .
`` I could have earned more money by going abroad but I felt this was the place to be . ''
Labelled `` Judas '' - and far worse - for the rest of his career , Campbell 's pursuit of trophies and the Champions League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even scored in the Champions League final in 2006 but lost out to Barcelona .
The signs were there , sure .
Zlatan Ibrahimovic had long been one of the planet 's best and most expensive strikers .
He 'd just become the top scorer in PSG 's history despite only arriving at the age of 30 .
But there was still more than a whiff of cynicism surrounding the Swede 's move to Old Trafford on a Bosman in the summer of 2016 .
He was 34 , supposedly washed up , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at best .
Instead he scored 28 goals in a stellar first campaign .
He scored winners at Wembley and was a key part of Jose Mourinho 's early success .
He lit up the Premier League in fact , just like he told us all he would .
He has since done similar jobs at LA Galaxy and back with AC Milan , also on free transfers .
King of the Bosman ?
There can rarely have been better transfer business done in the history of the game .
Borussia Dortmund have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court case of 1995 .
Robert Lewandowksi was not the first , or last , player to leave the Westfalenstadion for the Allianz Arena without so much as a bean changing hands , but his exit must hurt the most .
Just look at the numbers .
Lewandowski has scored 175 goals in 200 Bundesliga games for Bayern .
He has won the league six years in a row .
He 's won the Champions League and he 'll probably win the Fifa Best award this week .
Gerard Houllier must have raised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring a 35-year-old McAllister to Anfield from perennial relegation strugglers Coventry .
After all , that same summer Liverpool splashed the cash on Nick Barmby , Christian Ziege , and , er , Bernard Diomede ( plus Markus Babbel - who was a strong contender for this list - arrived on a Bosman ) .
But it was Gary Mac who Houllier would call `` his most inspirational signing '' .
With the young legs of Steven Gerrard doing his running , McAllister was left to conduct play and cause havoc with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Everton from near enough the halfway line ?
His penalties against Barcelona and against Birmingham ?
His goal and decisive free-kick in the Uefa Cup final win over Alaves ?
Perhaps the first high-profile English player to take advantage of the opportunities Bosman had unwittingly unlocked , McManaman 's move to Madrid was massive news .
The England winger had come close to a £12m switch to Barcelona a few years previously and his contract negotiations were a true saga - but he had always stated his wish to play abroad .
Any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Galacticos were soon put to bed .
McManaman scored a superb goal in the Champions League final in 2000 as he became the first English player to win the trophy for a foreign club .
Milner won two Premier League titles with Manchester City but started just 89 of a possible 190 league games before deciding to move across the M62 to another giant club .
Liverpool fans may have wondered what sort of deal they were getting .
A cracking one .
Milner played more or less a whole season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still a regular presence in midfield .
Versatile , reliable and above all else , quality .
If you are under a certain age the road from the Parc des Princes to the Reebok Stadium may seem a touch far-fetched .
But that was very much the genius of Sam Allardyce .
Fernando Hierro , Ivan Campo , Youri Djorkaeff - Big Sam pulled some ludicrous signings out of the bag for Wanderers but none better than Okocha .
So good , they named him twice .
What a joyous player he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rabonas , rainbow flicks and crashing long-range free-kicks while wearing a beaming smile .
A superb player .
`` When Andrea told me that he was joining us , the first thing I thought was : 'God exists ' .
A player of his level and ability , not to mention that he was free , I think it was the signing of the century ! ''
Who are we to argue with Juventus legend Gianluigi Buffon 's verdict ?
Pirlo had been frozen out in his final season with Milan and joined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A cameo option perhaps .
Instead , Pirlo became the fulcrum of Antonio Conte 's side and won the league four years in a row while playing the best football of his career .
A magnificent piece of business from the club he now manages .
Gus Poyet was a virtual unknown to most Premier League followers when he signed from Zaragoza but made an immediate impact with his goalscoring exploits from midfield .
Superb in the air and thunderous of volley , the Uruguayan scored twice in an FA Cup semi-final and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before moving into management .
Honours won after moving on a Bosman : FA Cup 1997 , 2000 ( as manager ) ; Cup Winners ' Cup 1998 ( as player/manager ) ; League Cup 1998 ( as player/manager ) ; Vialli 's £12m move to Juve in 1992 was a world record .
Four years on , Ruud Gullit brought him to London on a Bosman .
In and out of the team under Gullit , Vialli was the surprise choice to replace the Dutchman as boss and swiftly became the youngest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1998 Cup Winners ' Cup final .
Three major honours as the boss and a more than respectable haul of 40 goals in 88 appearances puts Luca rightfully on this list .
An earlier version of this article incorrectly listed Ruud Gullit as an option .
Gullit moved to Chelsea on a free transfer in 1995 - but before the Bosman court case .
• None Want all the goals and talking points from Sunday 's Premier League games ?

What happened to Bosman the man?
Decent, if unremarkable, as a player. An absolute game-changer as a court case.
It is now 25 years since Jean-Marc Bosman entered the European Court of Justice as a midfielder and emerged as a noun.
He wants a Bosman. The Bosman rule. We're signing him on a Bosman.
The change in employment law meant footballers could choose to run down their contracts and move clubs on a free transfer. With some caveats.
It changed football hugely. But who have been the best "Bosmans" and had the most success?
Take a look at our list of the best 10 and rank them at the bottom of the page.
Sol Campbell - Tottenham to Arsenal, 2001
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: Premier League 2002, 2004; FA Cup 2002, 2005
Contentious? I'll say. Tottenham offered their England defender a contract that would have made him the highest-paid player but he rejected it and moved down the road to arch rivals Arsenal.
"It was a big decision," Campbell said. "I could have earned more money by going abroad but I felt this was the place to be."
Labelled "Judas" - and far worse - for the rest of his career, Campbell's pursuit of trophies and the Champions League were both fulfilled at Arsenal. He even scored in the Champions League final in 2006 but lost out to Barcelona.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Paris St-Germain to Manchester United, 2016
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: League Cup 2017, Europa League 2017
Five reasons why Zlatan has been missed
The signs were there, sure. Zlatan Ibrahimovic had long been one of the planet's best and most expensive strikers. He'd just become the top scorer in PSG's history despite only arriving at the age of 30.
But there was still more than a whiff of cynicism surrounding the Swede's move to Old Trafford on a Bosman in the summer of 2016. He was 34, supposedly washed up, past his best. An impact sub at best.
Instead he scored 28 goals in a stellar first campaign. He scored winners at Wembley and was a key part of Jose Mourinho's early success. He lit up the Premier League in fact, just like he told us all he would.
He has since done similar jobs at LA Galaxy and back with AC Milan, also on free transfers. King of the Bosman?
Robert Lewandowski - Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich, 2014
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: Bundesliga 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020; German Cup 2016, 2019, 2020; Champions League 2020
There can rarely have been better transfer business done in the history of the game. Borussia Dortmund have more reasons than most to curse the court case of 1995.
Robert Lewandowksi was not the first, or last, player to leave the Westfalenstadion for the Allianz Arena without so much as a bean changing hands, but his exit must hurt the most.
Just look at the numbers. Lewandowski has scored 175 goals in 200 Bundesliga games for Bayern. He has won the league six years in a row. He's won the Champions League and he'll probably win the Fifa Best award this week.
No money well spent.
Gary McAllister - Coventry to Liverpool, 2000
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: FA Cup 2001, League Cup 2001, Uefa Cup 2001
Gerard Houllier must have raised a few eyebrows when he wanted to bring a 35-year-old McAllister to Anfield from perennial relegation strugglers Coventry. After all, that same summer Liverpool splashed the cash on Nick Barmby, Christian Ziege, and, er, Bernard Diomede (plus Markus Babbel - who was a strong contender for this list - arrived on a Bosman).
But it was Gary Mac who Houllier would call "his most inspirational signing". With the young legs of Steven Gerrard doing his running, McAllister was left to conduct play and cause havoc with his deadly set-pieces. Remember his goal against Everton from near enough the halfway line? His penalties against Barcelona and against Birmingham? His goal and decisive free-kick in the Uefa Cup final win over Alaves?
A key player in that famous treble season.
Steve McManaman - Liverpool to Real Madrid 1999
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: La Liga 2001, 2003; Champions League 2000, 2002
Perhaps the first high-profile English player to take advantage of the opportunities Bosman had unwittingly unlocked, McManaman's move to Madrid was massive news.
The England winger had come close to a £12m switch to Barcelona a few years previously and his contract negotiations were a true saga - but he had always stated his wish to play abroad.
Any doubts about his ability to fit in at the Galacticos were soon put to bed. McManaman scored a superb goal in the Champions League final in 2000 as he became the first English player to win the trophy for a foreign club.
James Milner - Manchester City to Liverpool, 2015
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: Premier League 2020; Champions League 2019
James Milner knows how to make the most of his time at home
Milner won two Premier League titles with Manchester City but started just 89 of a possible 190 league games before deciding to move across the M62 to another giant club.
Liverpool fans may have wondered what sort of deal they were getting. A cracking one.
Milner played more or less a whole season at left-back under Jurgen Klopp and is still a regular presence in midfield. Versatile, reliable and above all else, quality.
Jay-Jay Okocha - Paris St-Germain to Bolton, 2002
If you are under a certain age the road from the Parc des Princes to the Reebok Stadium may seem a touch far-fetched. But that was very much the genius of Sam Allardyce.
Fernando Hierro, Ivan Campo, Youri Djorkaeff - Big Sam pulled some ludicrous signings out of the bag for Wanderers but none better than Okocha. So good, they named him twice.
What a joyous player he was to watch in full flight. All rabonas, rainbow flicks and crashing long-range free-kicks while wearing a beaming smile. A superb player.
Andrea Pirlo - AC Milan to Juventus, 2011
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: Serie A 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015; Coppa Italia 2015
"When Andrea told me that he was joining us, the first thing I thought was: 'God exists'. A player of his level and ability, not to mention that he was free, I think it was the signing of the century!"
Who are we to argue with Juventus legend Gianluigi Buffon's verdict?
Pirlo had been frozen out in his final season with Milan and joined Juve as a 32-year-old bit-part player. A cameo option perhaps.
Instead, Pirlo became the fulcrum of Antonio Conte's side and won the league four years in a row while playing the best football of his career. A magnificent piece of business from the club he now manages.
Gus Poyet - Real Zaragoza to Chelsea, 1997
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: FA Cup 2000; Cup Winners' Cup 1998
Gus Poyet was a virtual unknown to most Premier League followers when he signed from Zaragoza but made an immediate impact with his goalscoring exploits from midfield.
Superb in the air and thunderous of volley, the Uruguayan scored twice in an FA Cup semi-final and managed 49 goals in just 145 games before moving into management.
Gianluca Vialli - Juventus to Chelsea, 1996
Honours won after moving on a Bosman: FA Cup 1997, 2000 (as manager); Cup Winners' Cup 1998 (as player/manager); League Cup 1998 (as player/manager);
Vialli's £12m move to Juve in 1992 was a world record. Four years on, Ruud Gullit brought him to London on a Bosman.
In and out of the team under Gullit, Vialli was the surprise choice to replace the Dutchman as boss and swiftly became the youngest manager to win a Uefa competition in the 1998 Cup Winners' Cup final.
Three major honours as the boss and a more than respectable haul of 40 goals in 88 appearances puts Luca rightfully on this list.
First 1 Second 2 Third 3 Fourth 4 Fifth 5 Sixth 6 Seventh 7 Eighth 8 Ninth 9 Tenth 10 Confirm selection
An earlier version of this article incorrectly listed Ruud Gullit as an option. Gullit moved to Chelsea on a free transfer in 1995 - but before the Bosman court case.


bbc--2020-12-15--Any Pogba move to be in summer as January transfer 'difficult', says agent

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd Paul Pogba is likely to stay at Manchester United until next summer as it would be `` difficult '' to sort out a move in January , says his agent .
However , Pogba pledged his commitment to the club after those remarks were heavily criticised .
`` When it comes to Pogba in England they are sensitive , perhaps too sensitive , '' Raiola told Italian paper Tuttosport .
Raiola had previously appeared to suggest his client wanted to leave United during the next transfer window but added : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's very difficult to see big clubs making these kinds of transfers in January .
We will see what happens next summer . ''
Pogba - whose contract at United expires in 2022 - has failed to live up to expectations since re-joining the club in an £89m move from Juventus in 2016 .
He has scored 35 goals in 172 games but the club have not lifted a trophy since the 2016-17 campaign , when they won the EFL Cup and Europa League .
This term Pogba has started six of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , scoring twice but also being responsible for giving away two penalties .
• None Want all the goals and talking points from Sunday 's Premier League games ?

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd
Paul Pogba began his professional career at Manchester United before returning after four years with Juventus
Paul Pogba is likely to stay at Manchester United until next summer as it would be "difficult" to sort out a move in January, says his agent.
Mino Raiola recently said the 27-year-old France midfielder is "unhappy" at the club and "has to change teams".
However, Pogba pledged his commitment to the club after those remarks were heavily criticised.
"When it comes to Pogba in England they are sensitive, perhaps too sensitive," Raiola told Italian paper Tuttosport. external-link
Raiola had previously appeared to suggest his client wanted to leave United during the next transfer window but added: "I was talking about next summer.
"It's very difficult to see big clubs making these kinds of transfers in January. We will see what happens next summer."
Pogba - whose contract at United expires in 2022 - has failed to live up to expectations since re-joining the club in an £89m move from Juventus in 2016.
He has scored 35 goals in 172 games but the club have not lifted a trophy since the 2016-17 campaign, when they won the EFL Cup and Europa League.
This term Pogba has started six of the club's 11 Premier League games, scoring twice but also being responsible for giving away two penalties.


bbc--2020-12-15--Ex-Australia bowler Siddle stars in Strikers win as first X-Factor subs made

Last updated on .From the section Cricket Peter Siddle 's Twenty20-best figures set Adelaide Strikers on the way to a five-wicket win over Hobart Hurricanes in a match where ' X-Factor ' substitutes were used for the first time .
After 10 overs of the Hurricanes ' innings , both teams made a change .
Hobart brought in Macallister Wright for Johan Botha , while Adelaide introduced Matt Short for Danny Briggs .
• None New rules and international stars - all you need to know about the Big Bash In rules introduced this season , teams can make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innings , providing the player replaced has not batted or has not bowled more than one over .
Having been reduced to 20-3 , the Hurricanes opted for batsman Wright over the spin of veteran Botha .
Warwickshire left-arm spinner Briggs , in his first Big Bash campaign , conceded 15 runs from his only over and gave way to spin-bowling all-rounder Short .
Ben McDermott and Colin Ingram made 46 apiece in a Hurricanes recovery that came either side of the substitution , only for 36-year-old former Australia seamer Siddle to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of the innings .
Sussex 's Phil Salt was one of two Adelaide batsmen to fall to James Faulkner in the first over of the reply , before Jake Weatherald and Alex Carey added 107 for the third wicket .
Carey perished for 55 , but Weatherald was unbeaten on 68 when the Strikers completed victory .
Listen to live commentary of selected Big Bash matches on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra , BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app .
• None Want all the goals and talking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
Peter Siddle (left) retired from international cricket in 2019 after playing 67 Tests, 20 one-day internationals and two Twenty20s for Australia
Big Bash League, Launceston Hobart Hurricanes 146 (19.3 overs): McDermott 46 (33), Ingram 46 (35), Siddle 5-16 Adelaide Strikers 147-7 (18.4 overs): Weatherald 68* (48), Carey 55 (40) Adelaide Strikers won by five wickets Scorecard ; Table
Peter Siddle's Twenty20-best figures set Adelaide Strikers on the way to a five-wicket win over Hobart Hurricanes in a match where 'X-Factor' substitutes were used for the first time.
Siddle's 5-16 helped dismiss the Hurricanes for 146, which the Strikers chased with eight balls to spare.
After 10 overs of the Hurricanes' innings, both teams made a change.
Hobart brought in Macallister Wright for Johan Botha, while Adelaide introduced Matt Short for Danny Briggs.
In rules introduced this season, teams can make a change after 10 overs of the first innings, providing the player replaced has not batted or has not bowled more than one over.
Having been reduced to 20-3, the Hurricanes opted for batsman Wright over the spin of veteran Botha.
Warwickshire left-arm spinner Briggs, in his first Big Bash campaign, conceded 15 runs from his only over and gave way to spin-bowling all-rounder Short.
Ben McDermott and Colin Ingram made 46 apiece in a Hurricanes recovery that came either side of the substitution, only for 36-year-old former Australia seamer Siddle to take four wickets in nine balls at the end of the innings.
Sussex's Phil Salt was one of two Adelaide batsmen to fall to James Faulkner in the first over of the reply, before Jake Weatherald and Alex Carey added 107 for the third wicket.
Carey perished for 55, but Weatherald was unbeaten on 68 when the Strikers completed victory.
Listen to live commentary of selected Big Bash matches on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app.


bbc--2020-12-15--Houllier was a special man, says his former captain Gerrard

Steven Gerrard says he is finding it `` really hard to come to terms '' with the death of `` special man '' Gerard Houllier , his former Liverpool manager , aged 73 .
Both played under the Frenchman while he was manager at Anfield .
`` Gerard obviously played a huge part in both our careers - and also our lives , '' Gerrard said .
`` He was more than just a manager .
A caring man , a loving man . ''
Gerrard was handed his Liverpool debut by Houllier in November 1998 , five months after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liverpool , while McAllister was signed from Coventry City two years later .
`` Throughout your career , different people look after you and shape you , '' Gerrard said .
`` I always try and take all the best bits from all the coaches and managers I worked .
It 's impossible for me add the charisma , the care and the love that Gerard carried .
`` This is not a guy who would focus solely on football and what you gave to him in terms of the relationship player-to-manager .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ age , wanted to change me as a human being into an elite professional , who wanted me to be a better person , who wanted me to really understand the tactics and the game in a different way and become an even better player and build all the other stuff around the talent I had at that age .
I 'll never forget that . ''
Gerrard , whose current team lead the Scottish Premiership , would win the FA Cup , League Cup , Uefa Cup , Super Cup and Charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shaped him into `` a better player , a better person , a better leader '' .
`` So I 've got an awful lot to thank the man for and I 'm finding it really hard to come to terms with it right now , '' he added .
`` The news yesterday was very difficult to take .
It 's a huge blow .
I came in yesterday morning really happy after our result at the weekend and then to receive that news was a bitter blow . ''
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Sunday 's Premier League games ?

Last updated on .From the section Rangers
Steven Gerrard (left) and Gerard Houllier (centre) won three trophies in 2001 with Liverpool
Steven Gerrard says he is finding it "really hard to come to terms" with the death of "special man" Gerard Houllier, his former Liverpool manager, aged 73.
The Rangers manager said "yesterday was a really tough day" for himself and assistant Gary McAllister.
Both played under the Frenchman while he was manager at Anfield.
"Gerard obviously played a huge part in both our careers - and also our lives," Gerrard said. "He was more than just a manager. A caring man, a loving man."
Gerrard was given his Liverpool debut by Houllier in November 1998, five months after the former France head coach arrived at Liverpool, while McAllister was signed from Coventry City two years later.
"I always try and take all the best bits from all the coaches and managers I worked. It's impossible for me add the charisma, the care and the love that Gerard carried," Gerrard said.
"This was someone who wanted me to be a better person, who wanted me to build all the other stuff around the talent I had at that age. I'll never forget that."
Gerrard would win the FA Cup, League Cup, Uefa Cup, Super Cup and Charity Shield under Houllier, who he says shaped him into "a better player, a better person, a better leader".
"I've got an awful lot to thank the man for and I'm finding it really hard to come to terms with it," he added. "It's a huge blow."
Asked what memories he had of Houllier, current Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp replied: "Only the best. I met him a few times, texted a lot. He was a very supportive man, a great coach and an even better human.
"Very warm personality and a true legend of this club. He would have loved to see our new training ground as you know he was influential in the rebuild and modernising of Melwood.
"During construction work here, we were in contact. He would have loved to have seen it."
Klopp expected the Liverpool fans to pay their own tribute to Houllier at Wednesday's top-of-the-table meeting with leaders Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield.


bbc--2020-12-16--Mitch McConnell: Top Trump ally breaks silence to congratulate Biden

Now the waiting for the Trump response begins .
Will he shrug off Mr McConnell 's words or add him @ @ @ @ @ enemies within his own party that must be confronted and condemned ?
The president 's @ @ @ @ @ reveal the depth of the political turmoil facing the party in the days ahead .

Now the waiting for the Trump response begins. Will he shrug off Mr McConnell's words or add him to the growing list of enemies within his own party that must be confronted and condemned? The president's next words and actions could reveal the depth of the political turmoil facing the party in the days ahead.


bbc--2020-12-15--Coronavirus: France replaces lockdown with evening curfew

The new lockdown will run from 16 December to 10 January , but this will be relaxed from 24 to @ @ @ @ @ will be able to invite a maximum of four close family members from other households @

Covid-19: Germany introduces new restrictions amid rise in cases Published 16 December 2020
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Non-essential businesses are closed under the new restrictions
Germany has entered a hard lockdown, closing schools and non-essential businesses in an attempt to stop a sharp rise in Covid-19 infections.
The measures will be in place until 10 January. Christmas will see a slight easing, with one household allowed to host up to four close family members.
The country reported another 952 deaths and 27,728 cases on Wednesday.
Meanwhile EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the first Covid vaccine would be authorised for use within a week.
Ms von der Leyen told the European Parliament the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine - developed in Germany - would be rolled out for the bloc the same day, more than a week earlier than originally envisaged.
The news came after the German government said it was pressuring the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to speed up approval of the vaccine. It has already been approved by regulators in the UK and the US.
The EMA is due to discuss the rollout next Monday.
Other European countries have joined Germany in tightening restrictions ahead of Christmas, and France has introduced a night-time curfew.
What are Germany's new measures, and why now?
Only essential businesses such as supermarkets and banks will be allowed to remain open. Restaurants, bars and leisure centres have been shut since November and some areas of the country had imposed their own lockdowns.
Hair salons are among the businesses which must close, while drinking alcohol in public places, such as popular mulled wine stalls, is forbidden. Companies are being urged to allow employees to work from home.
The 952 new fatalities announced on Wednesday are a new peak for Germany's pandemic, but may cover numbers that were not included in previous days.
Image source, EPA Image caption, People were still out on the streets of Munich, Bavaria, on Tuesday
Lothar Wieler, head of Germany's Robert Koch Institute, which is overseeing the Covid-19 response, said the situation was "more serious than it has ever been".
"The number of cases is higher than ever and they keep rising. There is the danger that the situation will keep getting worse and it will get harder and harder to deal with the pandemic and its consequences," he said.
Deutsche Welle reported that while cases in the younger population were falling, they were still rising among older people who were more likely to suffer more serious problems from the virus. Numbers in intensive care are said to have reached alarming levels.
Announcing the new measures over the weekend, Chancellor Angela Merkel said that the "lockdown light" begun in November had not done enough to bring the virus under control.
The figures are particularly shocking, as during the early months of the pandemic Germany was more successful than many other European countries in its handling of the crisis.
Germany's blame game
What's gone wrong for the country that came so successfully through the first wave of the pandemic?
Some blame Germany's regional leaders who, until now, have dithered, bickered and resisted Chancellor Merkel's calls for a tougher nationwide response.
And Prof Iris Pigeot, director of the Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, says that "people do not follow all the regulations that they're told. We had to reduce our contacts by about 75% but I think that didn't work".
She's concerned. "New Year's Eve and Christmas could be a complete nightmare with increasing numbers, increasing numbers of deaths."
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Most Christmas markets have been cancelled but one in Bavaria is offering a "drive-thru" experience
What's the situation elsewhere in Europe?
France has replaced its second national lockdown with a curfew from 20:00 to 06:00. People will not be allowed out of the house without an authorisation form.
Christmas Eve will be exempt, but the rule will stay in place for New Year's Eve. Bars and restaurants are to remain closed until at least 20 January.
The number of people in France who have died from coronavirus infections rose by 790 on Tuesday to a total of 59,072.
People in France are no longer required to print or download an official justification for leaving their homes during the day.
The Netherlands is currently under a five-week lockdown, the strictest set of measures announced in the country since the pandemic began.
Non-essential shops, cinemas, hairdressers and gyms closed on Tuesday, and schools have now followed suit. People have also been told to refrain from booking non-essential travel abroad until mid-March.
But restrictions will be eased slightly for three days over Christmas, when Dutch households are allowed three guests instead of two.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, How close are we to Covid immunisation?
In the UK, London entered England's highest tier of lockdown rules on Wednesday. Pubs and restaurants must close, except for takeaway and delivery, and indoor entertainment venues such as theatres, bowling alleys and cinemas must remain shut.
Meanwhile, Italy's daily death toll is still close to 500 and the government is considering a further tightening of measures over Christmas.
The exact details are unclear, but a new lockdown could come into place between Christmas night and New Year. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte described the potential lockdown as a "new squeeze".
Lithuania has gone into lockdown, with a ban on non-essential movement between towns. Contact between separate households is also banned.
Austria is to set out its plans for Christmas, including an extension of the rules on mask-wearing indoors and limits on meetings between households.


bbc--2020-12-15--Covid vaccine: When will Americans be vaccinated?

As health workers begin receiving Covid-19 vaccinations across the US , many Americans are asking when they will be able to get their shots .
Americans who are under 65 and healthy may be able to get their vaccinations as early as April , says Dr Anthony Fauci , who heads the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
The Trump administration 's health secretary , Alex Azar , predicts that by `` late February , into March , '' Americans will be able to get vaccinated at pharmacy and grocery chains like CVS and Walmart .
More than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been infected since January 2020 , and the US faces an uphill battle the curb the virus .
Who is getting the vaccine first ?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) guidelines submitted to US states say that the nation 's 21 million healthcare workers should be prioritised first , as well the three million elderly Americans living in long-term care homes .
Approximately 87 million essential workers are expected to be next in line for the jab , but it will be up to states to decide which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % or 80 % of the US population of 330 million have to be vaccinated in order to achieve herd immunity , he warned on Monday .
Officials say vaccinations for groups that are not at a high risk are expected to take place in the spring of 2021 .
What is the status of the vaccines ?
Vaccinations in the US began on 14 December , with a critical care nurse in New York City receiving the first injection of a drug developed by Pfizer and BioNTech .
On Tuesday , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company seeking approval for its vaccine , produced a drug that is 94 % effective in warding off the virus .
The rollout of this drug could begin early next week .
The FDA 's Emergency Use Authorization ( EUA ) allows a drug to be used as a treatment while studies are still being carried out to determine safety and effectiveness .
Critics say the process is less rigorous and more likely to lead to health complications .
How much vaccine will the US get ?
The company says they hope to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ produced by the end of the year , and enough for 50 million by March .
The US has agreed to buy 200 million doses of vaccine from Moderna , a company that has never previously had a product approved by the FDA .
If approved , US officials say the Massachusetts-based company will immediately ship around six million doses to 3,285 sites across the US - far more locations than Pfizer 's initial rollout .
Both vaccines require a second round of injections .
Some pharmacies have been tapped to use their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is time to receive their second shot .
For Pfizer , the second jab comes three weeks after the first .
For Moderna it is four weeks after the first shot .
When will life return to normal ?
Even as distribution begins , the drug manufacturers must continue to seek full - rather than emergency - approval , as the FDA continues to monitor the vaccines for any side-effects .
`` A vaccine will complement the other tools we have , not replace them , '' said Tedros Ghebreyesus , the head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Dr Fauci says Americans may be able to roll back those necessary precautions by the autumn of 2021 if 70 % of the US population has been vaccinated by then .
Will enough Americans trust it ?
There are ongoing concerns regarding how many Americans are willing to get vaccinated .
A recent Gallup poll found that 58 % say they would be willing to get the jab , up from a low of 50 % in September .
It also remains to be seen how racial minorities - who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus and dying from it - will be prioritised and what level of trust they will have in the government-issued vaccine .
Former US presidents Barack Obama , George W Bush and Bill Clinton have vowed to be vaccinated on camera , in an effort to encourage others to get the jab .
President Donald Trump says officials at the White House - which has seen several outbreaks - `` should receive the vaccine somewhat later ... unless specifically necessary '' .
At the time , Cambridge said all residents must get vaccinated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 fine ( which would be about $ 150 in 2020 ) .
In its ruling , the Supreme Court said that the rights of the individual do not trump the need to ensure public safety .
Pennsylvania 's health secretary has said they will not issue any mandate , but Virginia 's top health official has said they will consider issuing one once the vaccines are ready .
Can companies order employees take the vaccine ?
Private companies in the US have the right to force their employees to get certain vaccines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to immediately do so once the vaccine is approved .
What will the vaccines cost ?
The CDC says that vaccines purchased with taxpayer money will free , but providers may still charge for administering the jab .
That fee may be reimbursed by health insurance companies or the Medicaid and Medicare programmes - social safety nets for low income and elderly Americans .
In July , the US Department of Health and Human Services announced a $ 1.95bn ( £1.45bn ) deal to secure 100 million vaccine doses from Pfizer .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purchase an additional 500 million doses .
Moderna received nearly $ 1bn from the US government for coronavirus research .
The company is set to receive an additional $ 1.5bn for 100 million doses , according to a deal signed in August .
Billions of dollars have also been promised to other drug companies in the event that they are able to bring additional vaccines to market .
States are also racing to acquire ultra-cold refrigerators that are capable of storing the Pfizer vaccine , which must be kept at temperatures of -70C @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shipped in packages of dry ice .

Covid vaccine: When will Americans be vaccinated? Published 15 December 2020
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, The day the US began Covid vaccinations
As health workers begin receiving Covid-19 vaccinations across the US, many Americans are asking when they will be able to get their shots.
It's complicated, but this is what we know.
Americans who are under 65 and healthy may be able to get their vaccinations as early as April, says Dr Anthony Fauci, who heads the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
The Trump administration's health secretary, Alex Azar, predicts that by "late February, into March," Americans will be able to get vaccinated at pharmacy and grocery chains like CVS and Walmart.
But cases in the US are continuing to spike as winter sends people indoors and the holidays bring families together.
More than 300,000 Americans have died and 16.5 million have been infected since January 2020, and the US faces an uphill battle the curb the virus.
Here's what you need to know about getting vaccinated in the US.
Who is getting the vaccine first?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines submitted to US states say that the nation's 21 million healthcare workers should be prioritised first, as well the three million elderly Americans living in long-term care homes.
Approximately 87 million essential workers are expected to be next in line for the jab, but it will be up to states to decide which industries to prioritise.
Moncef Slaoui, the chief scientist of federal vaccine distribution programme Operation Warp Speed, says the young and healthy should be last in the line.
At least 70% or 80% of the US population of 330 million have to be vaccinated in order to achieve herd immunity, he warned on Monday.
Officials say vaccinations for groups that are not at a high risk are expected to take place in the spring of 2021.
What is the status of the vaccines?
One of the main challenges with vaccinating the US population is producing and distributing the shots.
Vaccinations in the US began on 14 December, with a critical care nurse in New York City receiving the first injection of a drug developed by Pfizer and BioNTech.
Pfizer, based in New York, and German company BioNTech received emergency authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after data found their vaccine 95% effective in preventing infections.
On Tuesday, the FDA reported that Moderna, a US company seeking approval for its vaccine, produced a drug that is 94% effective in warding off the virus. The rollout of this drug could begin early next week.
The FDA's Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allows a drug to be used as a treatment while studies are still being carried out to determine safety and effectiveness. Critics say the process is less rigorous and more likely to lead to health complications.
Johnson & Johnson, another US drug company, is currently testing a vaccine and could have enough data to submit an EUA request by January.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Five challenges of distributing a Covid-19 vaccine around the world.
How much vaccine will the US get?
Pfizer's first shipment of vaccine to the US saw 2.9 million doses sent to multiple locations around the country.
The company says they hope to have enough vaccine for 25 million Americans produced by the end of the year, and enough for 50 million by March.
The US has agreed to buy 200 million doses of vaccine from Moderna, a company that has never previously had a product approved by the FDA.
If approved, US officials say the Massachusetts-based company will immediately ship around six million doses to 3,285 sites across the US - far more locations than Pfizer's initial rollout.
Both vaccines require a second round of injections. Some pharmacies have been tapped to use their electronic networks to alert patients when it is time to receive their second shot.
For Pfizer, the second jab comes three weeks after the first. For Moderna it is four weeks after the first shot.
Johnson & Johnson's experimental vaccine is the only one being developed that relies on a single jab.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, How will the new Pfizer vaccine work?
When will life return to normal?
Even as distribution begins, the drug manufacturers must continue to seek full - rather than emergency - approval, as the FDA continues to monitor the vaccines for any side-effects.
Health experts say the vaccine's arrival does not mean life will immediately return to normal.
"A vaccine will complement the other tools we have, not replace them," said Tedros Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO).
"A vaccine on its own will not end the pandemic."
Hand-washing, social distancing and mask-wearing will remain the norm until enough of the population has been vaccinated.
Dr Fauci says Americans may be able to roll back those necessary precautions by the autumn of 2021 if 70% of the US population has been vaccinated by then.
Will enough Americans trust it?
There are ongoing concerns regarding how many Americans are willing to get vaccinated. A recent Gallup poll found that 58% say they would be willing to get the jab, up from a low of 50% in September.
It also remains to be seen how racial minorities - who are at a higher risk of catching the virus and dying from it - will be prioritised and what level of trust they will have in the government-issued vaccine.
Former US presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton have vowed to be vaccinated on camera, in an effort to encourage others to get the jab. President Donald Trump says officials at the White House - which has seen several outbreaks - "should receive the vaccine somewhat later... unless specifically necessary".
Could states make the vaccine mandatory?
According to a 1905 landmark Supreme Court case, states do have it in their power to require the vaccination of their residents.
The case, Jacobson v Massachusetts, arose during a smallpox epidemic in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1902 when one resident refused the vaccine.
At the time, Cambridge said all residents must get vaccinated or re-vaccinated, otherwise pay a $5 fine (which would be about $150 in 2020).
In its ruling, the Supreme Court said that the rights of the individual do not trump the need to ensure public safety.
However, the high court of Massachusetts later ruled that states lacked the authority to administer the injection, and could only issue fines.
Pennsylvania's health secretary has said they will not issue any mandate, but Virginia's top health official has said they will consider issuing one once the vaccines are ready.
Can companies order employees take the vaccine?
Private companies in the US have the right to force their employees to get certain vaccines, experts say, but are unlikely to immediately do so once the vaccine is approved.
This is because the vaccines are both seeking approval under an emergency process that critics say could lead to health complications.
"Companies could theoretically issue a mandate, but in the current political climate it is very unlikely they will do so," George Washington University Law professor Peter Meyers told Reuters. "Americans tend to shy away from mandates."
Ford Motor Co and Kellogg Co have both said they will make the vaccine available to their employees on a voluntary basis.
Many hospitals and health clinics require annual flu shots, and all 50 states have vaccination requirements in place for school children.
Workers can be excused from a vaccine if they have health issues that forbid receiving a vaccine, or - in some states - if they have religious objections.
What will the vaccines cost?
The CDC says that vaccines purchased with taxpayer money will free, but providers may still charge for administering the jab.
That fee may be reimbursed by health insurance companies or the Medicaid and Medicare programmes - social safety nets for low income and elderly Americans.
In July, the US Department of Health and Human Services announced a $1.95bn (£1.45bn) deal to secure 100 million vaccine doses from Pfizer. The agreement also allows the US government to purchase an additional 500 million doses.
Moderna received nearly $1bn from the US government for coronavirus research. The company is set to receive an additional $1.5bn for 100 million doses, according to a deal signed in August.
Billions of dollars have also been promised to other drug companies in the event that they are able to bring additional vaccines to market.


bbc--2020-12-15--Moderna vaccine safe and effective, say US experts

The Food and Drug Administration is yet to give the green light for the Moderna vaccine , but if it @ @ @ @ @ start to receive some of the 200m doses it has pre-ordered .
The first lot @ @ @ @ @ by the end of December .

The Food and Drug Administration is yet to give the green light for the Moderna vaccine, but if it does, the US could start to receive some of the 200m doses it has pre-ordered. The first lot of 20m could be delivered by the end of December.


bbc--2020-12-15--Florida puppy that escaped alligator's jaws becomes sheriff 'deputy dog'

Gunner the puppy survived a close encounter with an alligator 's jaws last month - with video of his escape @ @ @ @ @ , quickly going viral .
Now he 's been honoured as a `` deputy dog @ @ @ @ @ in Florida .
The five-month-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will work with Lee County Sheriff @ @ @ @ @ about safety .

Gunner the puppy survived a close encounter with an alligator's jaws last month - with video of his escape, aided by owner Richard, quickly going viral.
Now he's been honoured as a "deputy dog" by his local sheriff in Florida.
The five-month-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will work with Lee County Sheriff's Office to educate children about safety.


bbc--2020-12-15--Peter Nygard: Fashion mogul faces sex trafficking charges

A lawyer representing 57 women who have filed a lawsuit against Mr Nygard claiming sexual abuse said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ that some degree of accountability is hopefully forthcoming , but we would be remiss if @ @ @ @ @ this is something that should have been done decades ago '' .

A lawyer representing 57 women who have filed a lawsuit against Mr Nygard claiming sexual abuse said in a statement that "we are relieved that some degree of accountability is hopefully forthcoming, but we would be remiss if we did not state that this is something that should have been done decades ago".


bbc--2020-12-15--Lizzo sparks body debate over smoothie diet

`` As you know , I would normally be so afraid and ashamed to post things like this online because @ @ @ @ @ big girl , people just expect if you are doing something for health you 're @ @ @ @ @ weight loss , and that is not the case , '' said Lizzo .

"As you know, I would normally be so afraid and ashamed to post things like this online because I feel like as a big girl, people just expect if you are doing something for health you're doing it for a dramatic weight loss, and that is not the case," said Lizzo.


bbc--2020-12-15--LGBT-owned kilt maker denounces kilt-clad Proud Boys

`` I ca n't control who buys my product , but if they 're buying our product , they 're @ @ @ @ @ good cause and I think they wo n't be too happy when they find out @ @ @ @ @ company that 's really fighting for the opposite of what they believe in , '' @ @ @

"I can't control who buys my product, but if they're buying our product, they're putting their money towards a good cause and I think they won't be too happy when they find out they accidentally bought from a company that's really fighting for the opposite of what they believe in," he says.


bbc--2020-12-16--Great Pyramid: Lost Egyptian artefact found in Aberdeen cigar box

`` This may be because the date relates to the age of the wood , maybe from the centre of @ @ @ @ @ , it could be because of the rarity of trees in ancient Egypt , which @ @ @ @ @ , treasured and recycled or cared for over many years . ''

This is said to support the theory that, whatever their use, the so-called Dixon Relics were original to the construction of the Great Pyramid and not later artefacts left behind by those exploring the chambers. But the dating is also surprising as historical records have dated the pyramid itself to a period about 500 years later.


bbc--2020-12-16--Prato: The Italian town turning rags into new clothes

Fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world .
But a small town in Italy called Prato @ @ @ @ @ transforming old scraps into new clothes , particularly knitwear and wool .

Fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world. But a small town in Italy called Prato has built its fortune on transforming old scraps into new clothes, particularly knitwear and wool.
Could Prato represent a model for sustainable fashion?
Reporter: Sofia Bettiza
Editor: Sofia Bettiza
Filmed by: Paolo Patruno


bbc--2020-12-15--Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: About 2.3 million children cut off from aid, UN says

The government says it is in control of the region and the conflict is over .
But Tigray People 's @ @ @ @ @ says it is still fighting on various fronts .

The government says it is in control of the region and the conflict is over. But the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) says it is still fighting on various fronts.


bbc--2020-12-15--Hungary bans same-sex couples from adopting children

The government says the changes are needed as `` new ideological processes in the West '' have made it necessary @ @ @ @ @ possible ideological or biological interference '' .

The government says the changes are needed as "new ideological processes in the West" have made it necessary to "protect children against possible ideological or biological interference".


bbc--2020-12-16--Prince Harry and Meghan sign Spotify podcast deal

The trailer on the Spotify 's website features the duke and duchess promoting the deal , with Harry saying : @ @ @ @ @ project is all about , to bring forward different perspectives and voices that perhaps you @ @ @ @ @ find our common ground . ''

The trailer on the Spotify's website features the duke and duchess promoting the deal, with Harry saying: "That's what this project is all about, to bring forward different perspectives and voices that perhaps you haven't heard before and find our common ground."


bbc--2020-12-15--EU reveals plan to regulate Big Tech

EU reveals plan to regulate Big Tech

And they may influence other regulators - in the US and elsewhere - which are also planning to introduce new @ @ @ @ @

"[It] will require online marketplaces to check their sellers' identity before they are allowed on the platform, which will make it so much more difficult for dodgy traders to do their business," commented Mr Breton.


bbc--2020-12-16--Kangaroos can 'communicate' with humans, study finds

Kangaroos are able to intentionally communicate with people and `` ask for help '' , a study has found .
@ @ @ @ @ that only domesticated animals display this behaviour , co-authors from the UK and Australia tell @ @ @

Kangaroos are able to intentionally communicate with people and "ask for help", a study has found.
The research challenges the notion that only domesticated animals display this behaviour, co-authors from the UK and Australia tell the BBC.
Video by Isabelle Rodd


bbc--2020-12-15--Prue Leith receives 'painless' Covid vaccination

Noel Fielding , who co-hosts Bake Off , reacted to the news of his colleague being among the first wave @ @ @ @ @ to be vaccinated against coronavirus .

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bbc--2020-12-16--Our Lives: 'We don't have to be shooting each other'

The negotiations between the UK and EU are being followed closely in Northern Ireland where arguments over the future of @ @ @ @ @ revived by Brexit .
There ’ s been power-sharing between Catholic and Protestant for more @ @ @ @ @ trauma and division caused by conflict is a huge challenge for society .
As part @ @ @ @ @ Our Lives series Fergal Keane – who reported from Northern Ireland during the Troubles – @ @ @ @ @ some of those facing the legacy of violence .

The negotiations between the UK and EU are being followed closely in Northern Ireland where arguments over the future of the Irish border have been revived by Brexit.
There’s been power-sharing between Catholic and Protestant for more than two decades but the trauma and division caused by conflict is a huge challenge for society.
As part of the BBC’S Our Lives series Fergal Keane – who reported from Northern Ireland during the Troubles – has been back to meet some of those facing the legacy of violence.
Camera and editing: David McIlveen; producer: Alice Doyard
More in the Our Lives series


bbc--2020-12-16--Beirut explosion: The architect rebuilding families' homes for free

An architect and his team have been rebuilding houses for free , in the poorer areas of Beirut which were @ @ @ @ @ affected by the 4 August explosion , because of their proximity to the port .
@ @ @ @ @ the Lebanese government is n't providing enough help to those who lost their homes , @ @ @ @ @ Karantina , and built a new children 's centre .
The Isamaelat family , whose @ @ @ @ @ explosion , told the BBC their story .

An architect and his team have been rebuilding houses for free, in the poorer areas of Beirut which were also some of the worst affected by the 4 August explosion, because of their proximity to the port.
Joe Salloum, who says the Lebanese government isn't providing enough help to those who lost their homes, has renovated 22 houses in Karantina, and built a new children's centre.
The Isamaelat family, whose home was destroyed in the explosion, told the BBC their story.


bbc--2020-12-15--Jesy Nelson: Little Mix fans back her 'powerful and brave' decision

`` It showed people they are not alone and we can get through it , be strong - and it @ @ @ @ @ OK , '' the 22-year-old from Kansas City says .

"It showed people they are not alone and we can get through it, be strong - and it's OK to not be OK," the 22-year-old from Kansas City says.


bbc--2020-12-15--Nottingham street dancer: ‘Why I dance in front of strangers’

A street dancer has explained how being on the autistic spectrum has enhanced his ability to dance .
Jamal Sterrett @ @ @ @ @ Ann 's in Nottingham , performs a style known as bruk up , which originates @ @ @ @ @ , kind of , gave me a character or a persona that I could get @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` It 's like no other feeling in the world . ''
Tom @ @ @ @ @ at the National Autistic Society , said : `` We know lots of autistic people @ @ @ @ @ have a deep love of dance , acting , music or painting . ''
Follow @ @ @ @ @ , Twitter , or Instagram .
Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

A street dancer has explained how being on the autistic spectrum has enhanced his ability to dance.
Jamal Sterrett, 24, from St Ann's in Nottingham, performs a style known as bruk up, which originates from Jamaica.
"Dancing, kind of, gave me a character or a persona that I could get lost in," he said.
"It's like no other feeling in the world."
Tom Purser, head of campaigns at the National Autistic Society, said: "We know lots of autistic people who are incredibly creative and have a deep love of dance, acting, music or painting."
Video journalist: Alex Thorp
Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk.


bbc--2020-12-16--Vaccine doctors on TikTok: 'Come for the fun, stay for the science'

Despite the commitments of her job , Anna spends an hour at the start of each week making four or @ @ @ @ @ ahead - and then takes `` an hour a day '' answering the many questions @ @ @ @ @

"So it's important not to get into an argument with people, not to get emotive because that changes entirely what you're trying to say. You try and answer back with facts."


bbc--2020-12-16--Germany starts Christmas lockdown amid Covid surge

Few Germans had expected to enjoy all the trappings of a traditional Christmas this year but new countrywide restrictions , @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , will limit festivities to the smallest of family gatherings .
No carolling , @ @ @ @ @ 's much loved glühwein stalls will close , as drinking outdoors is banned .

Few Germans had expected to enjoy all the trappings of a traditional Christmas this year but new countrywide restrictions, which come into force on Wednesday, will limit festivities to the smallest of family gatherings. No carolling, no parties and even Germany's much loved Glühwein stalls will close, as drinking outdoors is banned.


bbc--2020-12-16--Abhishek Bachchan: A Bollywood star's romance with kabaddi

`` We were trying to show the new glamour that has been brought to the sport but also celebrates the @ @ @ @ @ sport that make it so desi [ indigenous. ]
.
We have really tried to @ @ @ @ @ and attractive to more and more people in and outside India , '' Gale told @ @ @

"We were trying to show the new glamour that has been brought to the sport but also celebrates the heritage and roots of the sport that make it so desi [indigenous.]. We have really tried to capture what makes kabaddi unique and attractive to more and more people in and outside India," Gale told the BBC.


bbc--2020-12-16--French culture takes centre stage in Covid protest

As a professional , he is allowed to practise but does not know when he will be able to get @ @ @ @ @ Will we be able to perform in two months , three months ? ''
he @ @

As a professional, he is allowed to practise but does not know when he will be able to get back on stage. "Will we be able to perform in two months, three months?" he wonders.


bbc--2020-12-15--Benzema sends Real level at top of La Liga

Last updated on .From the section European Football Karim Benzema scored twice as Real Madrid beat Athletic Bilbao to move @ @ @ @ @ top of La Liga .
Ander Capa equalised for Athletic at the second attempt after @ @ @ @ @ by Thibaut Courtois .
Benzema scored twice to win the game for Real , heading @ @ @ @ @ injury-time second .
That clinching goal came moments after Courtois denied Mikel Vesga an equaliser @ @ @ @ @ Real have now won four games in a row in all competitions as they continue @ @ @ @ @ .
Real Sociedad , Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are all on 26 points at @ @ @ @ @ .
Barcelona , who are nine points behind the trio , host Real Sociedad on @ @ @ @ @ .
• None Want all the goals and talking points from Sunday 's Premier League @ @

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Karim Benzema has now scored 13 La Liga goals against Athletic - more than he has against any other team
Karim Benzema scored twice as Real Madrid beat Athletic Bilbao to move level on points at the top of La Liga.
Athletic's Raul Garcia was sent off early on after two bookings for fouls on Toni Kroos, who put Real ahead with a first-time drive before the break.
Ander Capa equalised for Athletic at the second attempt after he had a shot saved by Thibaut Courtois.
Benzema scored twice to win the game for Real, heading in and then drilling an injury-time second.
That clinching goal came moments after Courtois denied Mikel Vesga an equaliser with a fine save.
Real have now won four games in a row in all competitions as they continue to turn their season around.
Real Sociedad, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are all on 26 points at the top of La Liga.
Barcelona, who are nine points behind the trio, host Real Sociedad on Wednesday (20:00 GMT).
Line-ups
Match Stats
Live Text Line-ups Real Madrid Formation 4-2-3-1 1 Courtois 2 Carvajal 5 Varane 4 Ramos 23 Mendy 10 Modric 8 Kroos 17 Vázquez 15 Valverde 20 Vinícius Júnior 9 Benzema 1 Courtois
2 Carvajal
5 Varane
4 Ramos
23 Mendy
10 Modric
8 Kroos
17 Vázquez Booked at 42mins Substituted for Rodrygo at 75' minutes
15 Valverde Substituted for Isco at 64' minutes
20 Vinícius Júnior Substituted for Asensio at 64' minutes
9 Benzema Substitutes 3 Militão
6 Nacho
11 Asensio
12 Marcelo
13 Lunin
19 Odriozola
22 Isco
25 Rodrygo
26 Altube Ath Bilbao Formation 4-2-3-1 1 Simón 21 Capa 5 Álvarez 4 Martínez 17 Berchiche 14 García Carrillo 27 Vencedor 18 De Marcos 22 García 12 Berenguer Remiro 9 Williams 1 Simón
21 Capa Substituted for Lekue at 80' minutes
5 Álvarez Booked at 80mins
4 Martínez
17 Berchiche
14 García Carrillo
27 Vencedor Substituted for Vesga at 66' minutes
18 De Marcos Substituted for Muniain at 80' minutes
22 García Booked at 13mins
12 Berenguer Remiro Substituted for Córdoba at 59' minutes
9 Williams Substituted for Villalibre at 67' minutes Substitutes 2 Morcillo
3 Núñez
6 Vesga
8 López
10 Muniain
11 Córdoba
13 Ezkieta
15 Lekue
16 Sancet
19 Kodro
20 Villalibre
24 Balenziaga Referee: Jesús Gil Manzano Match Stats Live Text Post update Match ends, Real Madrid 3, Athletic Club 1. Full Time Second Half ends, Real Madrid 3, Athletic Club 1. Post update Attempt saved. Íñigo Martínez (Athletic Club) left footed shot from more than 40 yards on the left wing is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Unai Simón. goal Goal! Goal! Real Madrid 3, Athletic Club 1. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Luka Modric. Post update Attempt blocked. Yeray Álvarez (Athletic Club) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Post update Attempt saved. Mikel Vesga (Athletic Club) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Yeray Álvarez. Post update Attempt missed. Marco Asensio (Real Madrid) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses the top left corner. Assisted by Luka Modric. Post update Isco (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Post update Foul by Dani García (Athletic Club). Post update Foul by Rodrygo (Real Madrid). Post update Dani García (Athletic Club) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Post update Attempt blocked. Isco (Real Madrid) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Rodrygo. Post update Foul by Raphael Varane (Real Madrid). Post update Asier Villalibre (Athletic Club) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Post update Corner, Athletic Club. Conceded by Rodrygo. Post update Corner, Athletic Club. Conceded by Raphael Varane. Post update Attempt blocked. Iñigo Córdoba (Athletic Club) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Íñigo Lekue. Post update Corner, Athletic Club. Conceded by Luka Modric. Substitution Substitution, Athletic Club. Iker Muniain replaces Óscar De Marcos. Substitution Substitution, Athletic Club. Íñigo Lekue replaces Ander Capa. Page 1 of 5 rewind previous Navigate to the next page next Navigate to the last page forward


bbc--2020-12-15--'You have to win these games' - Guardiola frustrated as Man City held by West Brom

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said `` you have to win this kind of game '' after his side were held to a frustrating draw by struggling West Brom .
`` It will be a long season but if you want to be up there we have to win here and we could not do it , '' he said .
`` We created chances , we controlled it but you have to win .
This game works on results . ''
City seemed on course for a customary home win against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first-time finish to Raheem Sterling 's cutback after half an hour .
But the midfielder 's first goal in 22 games was cancelled out before half-time when a volley on the turn from Semi Ajayi , which appeared to be going wide , deflected off Ruben Dias and wrong-footed City keeper Ederson .
It was the first goal City had conceded in 608 minutes in all competitions and was followed by a valiant backs-to-the-wall effort from Slaven Bilic 's visitors , who defended heroically .
It seems that the point may still not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job , with the 52-year-old 's exit potentially coming as early as Wednesday .
Uncertainty over Bilic 's future has been fuelled by his admission there have been no talks over a new contract , with his current one due to expire in the summer .
The visitors had lost each of their past nine visits to Etihad Stadium and hopes could not have been especially high on their latest trip , given they had won once all season and that success - at home to bottom club Sheffield United - was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run of six matches .
Little wonder Bilic 's future is the topic of major debate - or that the Baggies boss looked edgy as he tried to urge his team on during an opening period that could hardly have been more one-sided .
City enjoyed 77 % possession , yet at the start of the half came a golden chance that West Brom should have taken - and at the end of the first period , a scruffy one that they did .
With a restricted budget , Bilic pushed the Baggies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Karlan Grant on deadline day .
A return of one goal from nine games before this one is not good enough - and he will not have many better chances than the one he had after seven minutes - straight in front of goal , 10 yards out , with only Ederson to beat .
Grant 's shot lacked conviction , was not close enough to the corner and allowed the keeper to save .
Ajayi 's deflected equaliser was unexpected , but it gave West Brom something to cling to .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outstanding in the second half .
Despite offering no threat at the other end , the visitors ' collective effort was far better than anything previously produced in a season where they had conceded 25 goals in their first 12 games , more than any other side .
And Johnstone 's heroics at the end ensured the defenders ' efforts gained a tangible reward .
`` We defended brilliantly , it 's a great point but more than that it shows we know what we have to do in every game , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for our lives , ready to die for each other on the pitch and that 's all I can ask . ''
City still have some truly great players but the losses of midfielder David Silva to Real Sociedad in the close season , and Sergio Aguero to injury for much of the campaign , have robbed them of key attacking threats .
For all their possession , clear chances were at a premium .
Benjamin Mendy and Rodri were both off-target with efforts that could be classed as more hopeful than threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal as he delayed his cutback just long enough to tee up the Germany midfielder in the perfect spot , but too often City chose the wrong option and ended up running into a red and yellow-shirted wall .
Johnstone denied Sterling after the interval with a smart reaction save but as desperate clearance followed desperate clearance and block followed block , City boss Pep Guardiola became more and more agitated .
At one point he almost resorted to chasing after the ball when it went out of play to try and maintain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when fourth official Anthony Taylor was about to signal the minimum amount of additional time to be played , Guardiola amusingly stuck his head over the board , as if to say the number was wrong .
Back on the bench after a bout of gastroenteritis , the introduction of Aguero midway through the second period signalled fresh hope for City .
But the Argentine missed his best chance three minutes from time - and former Manchester United keeper Johnstone did the rest .
`` You do n't have to be so clever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and previous years [ in our results ] , '' Guardiola said .
`` It is not confidence , Sergio Aguero is injured for four months , but we create chances , we are there we just ca n't score . ''
Portuguese own goals on the rise - the stats • None This result ended a run of eight Premier League home wins against promoted sides for Manchester City , since a goalless draw against Huddersfield in May 2018 .
• None West Brom ended a 13-game losing streak against City in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first point against them since a 0-0 draw in December 2011 .
• None Albion also picked up their first away point against City since August 2005 , ending a run of nine straight league defeats at Etihad Stadium .
• None City 's haul of 26 shots was the most they have had in a home league game without winning since August 2019 against Spurs ( 30 ) .
• None Rúben Dias ' own goal was the first goal City had conceded in 10 hours and eight minutes in all competitions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Spurs last month .
• None Dias is the third different Portuguese player to score a Premier League own goal this season , after Helder Costa and Nélson Semedo .
Only three different Portuguese players had scored own goals in the previous 27 seasons in the league combined ( José Bosingwa twice , Abel Xavier and Ricardo Rocha ) .
• None Raheem Sterling has been involved in 148 goals in all competitions for Man City under Pep Guardiola ( 95 goals , 53 assists ) , more than any other player @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None Ilkay Gundogan 's opener was his first Premier League goal in 22 games , since netting against Leicester last December .
• None Want all the goals and talking points from Sunday 's Premier League games ?

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Pep Guardiola laments his side's inability to score in their 1-1 draw at home to West Brom
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said "you have to win this kind of game" after his side were held to a frustrating draw by struggling West Brom.
Baggies goalkeeper Sam Johnstone made two point-blank stoppage-time saves to deny City victory and leave Guardiola's side sixth in the Premier League table, five points off the top.
"It will be a long season but if you want to be up there we have to win here and we could not do it," he said.
"We created chances, we controlled it but you have to win. This game works on results."
City seemed on course for a customary home win against West Brom when Ilkay Gundogan applied a first-time finish to Raheem Sterling's cutback after half an hour.
But the midfielder's first goal in 22 games was cancelled out before half-time when a volley on the turn from Semi Ajayi, which appeared to be going wide, deflected off Ruben Dias and wrong-footed City keeper Ederson.
It was the first goal City had conceded in 608 minutes in all competitions and was followed by a valiant backs-to-the-wall effort from Slaven Bilic's visitors, who defended heroically.
It seems that the point may still not be enough to keep Bilic in the job, with the 52-year-old's exit potentially coming as early as Wednesday.
Uncertainty over Bilic's future has been fuelled by his admission there have been no talks over a new contract, with his current one due to expire in the summer.
Battling Baggies scrap for point
The visitors had lost each of their past nine visits to Etihad Stadium and hopes could not have been especially high on their latest trip, given they had won once all season and that success - at home to bottom club Sheffield United - was the only time they avoided defeat in a run of six matches.
Little wonder Bilic's future is the topic of major debate - or that the Baggies boss looked edgy as he tried to urge his team on during an opening period that could hardly have been more one-sided.
City enjoyed 77% possession, yet at the start of the half came a golden chance that West Brom should have taken - and at the end of the first period, a scruffy one that they did.
With a restricted budget, Bilic pushed the Baggies board to pay Huddersfield £15m for striker Karlan Grant on deadline day.
A return of one goal from nine games before this one is not good enough - and he will not have many better chances than the one he had after seven minutes - straight in front of goal, 10 yards out, with only Ederson to beat.
Grant's shot lacked conviction, was not close enough to the corner and allowed the keeper to save.
Ajayi's deflected equaliser was unexpected, but it gave West Brom something to cling to. In partnership with Dara O'Shea, Ajayi was outstanding in the second half.
Despite offering no threat at the other end, the visitors' collective effort was far better than anything previously produced in a season where they had conceded 25 goals in their first 12 games, more than any other side.
And Johnstone's heroics at the end ensured the defenders' efforts gained a tangible reward.
"We defended brilliantly, it's a great point but more than that it shows we know what we have to do in every game," Bilic said.
"We are defending for our lives, ready to die for each other on the pitch and that's all I can ask."
Man City draw means more than a point to West Brom - Bilic
Offensive struggles for Guardiola's City
City still have some truly great players but the losses of midfielder David Silva to Real Sociedad in the close season, and Sergio Aguero to injury for much of the campaign, have robbed them of key attacking threats.
For all their possession, clear chances were at a premium. Benjamin Mendy and Rodri were both off-target with efforts that could be classed as more hopeful than threatening.
Sterling's inventiveness created Gundogan's goal as he delayed his cutback just long enough to tee up the Germany midfielder in the perfect spot, but too often City chose the wrong option and ended up running into a red and yellow-shirted wall.
Johnstone denied Sterling after the interval with a smart reaction save but as desperate clearance followed desperate clearance and block followed block, City boss Pep Guardiola became more and more agitated.
At one point he almost resorted to chasing after the ball when it went out of play to try and maintain his side's attacking momentum, and when fourth official Anthony Taylor was about to signal the minimum amount of additional time to be played, Guardiola amusingly stuck his head over the board, as if to say the number was wrong.
Back on the bench after a bout of gastroenteritis, the introduction of Aguero midway through the second period signalled fresh hope for City. But the Argentine missed his best chance three minutes from time - and former Manchester United keeper Johnstone did the rest.
"You don't have to be so clever to see the gap between this year and previous years [in our results]," Guardiola said.
"It is not confidence, Sergio Aguero is injured for four months, but we create chances, we are there we just can't score."
Player of the match Johnstone Sam Johnstone with an average of 9.20 Man City Manchester City Manchester City
West Brom West Bromwich Albion West Bromwich Albion Manchester City Avg Squad number 17 Player name De Bruyne Average rating 4.69 Squad number 8 Player name Gündogan Average rating 4.52 Squad number 31 Player name Ederson Average rating 4.30 Squad number 10 Player name Agüero Average rating 4.08 Squad number 7 Player name Sterling Average rating 4.08 Squad number 3 Player name Rúben Dias Average rating 4.05 Squad number 27 Player name João Cancelo Average rating 4.01 Squad number 9 Player name Gabriel Jesus Average rating 3.98 Squad number 6 Player name Aké Average rating 3.97 Squad number 16 Player name Rodri Average rating 3.97 Squad number 22 Player name Mendy Average rating 3.93 Squad number 2 Player name Walker Average rating 3.85 Squad number 47 Player name Foden Average rating 3.59 West Bromwich Albion Avg Squad number 1 Player name Johnstone Average rating 9.20 Squad number 6 Player name Ajayi Average rating 8.26 Squad number 27 Player name O'Shea Average rating 8.25 Squad number 18 Player name Gallagher Average rating 7.98 Squad number 2 Player name Furlong Average rating 7.82 Squad number 3 Player name Gibbs Average rating 7.68 Squad number 10 Player name Phillips Average rating 7.67 Squad number 11 Player name Diangana Average rating 7.61 Squad number 19 Player name Sawyers Average rating 7.57 Squad number 8 Player name Livermore Average rating 7.49 Squad number 17 Player name Krovinovic Average rating 7.34 Squad number 15 Player name Austin Average rating 7.31 Squad number 22 Player name Peltier Average rating 7.27 Squad number 29 Player name Grant Average rating 7.24
Portuguese own goals on the rise - the stats
This result ended a run of eight Premier League home wins against promoted sides for Manchester City, since a goalless draw against Huddersfield in May 2018.
West Brom ended a 13-game losing streak against City in the Premier League, picking up their first point against them since a 0-0 draw in December 2011.
Albion also picked up their first away point against City since August 2005, ending a run of nine straight league defeats at Etihad Stadium.
City's haul of 26 shots was the most they have had in a home league game without winning since August 2019 against Spurs (30).
Rúben Dias' own goal was the first goal City had conceded in 10 hours and eight minutes in all competitions, since Giovani lo Celso's strike for Spurs last month.
Dias is the third different Portuguese player to score a Premier League own goal this season, after Helder Costa and Nélson Semedo. Only three different Portuguese players had scored own goals in the previous 27 seasons in the league combined (José Bosingwa twice, Abel Xavier and Ricardo Rocha).
Raheem Sterling has been involved in 148 goals in all competitions for Man City under Pep Guardiola (95 goals, 53 assists), more than any other player since the Spaniard joined in 2016.
Ilkay Gundogan's opener was his first Premier League goal in 22 games, since netting against Leicester last December.
Line-ups
Match Stats
Live Text Line-ups Man City Formation 4-2-3-1 31 Ederson 27 Cancelo 3 Rúben Dias 6 Aké 22 Mendy 16 Rodri 8 Gündogan 7 Sterling 17 De Bruyne 47 Foden 9 Gabriel Jesus 31 Ederson
27 Cancelo Booked at 45mins
3 Rúben Dias
6 Aké Booked at 90mins
22 Mendy Substituted for Walker at 75' minutes
16 Rodri
8 Gündogan
7 Sterling
17 De Bruyne
47 Foden Substituted for Agüero at 76' minutes
9 Gabriel Jesus Substitutes 2 Walker
10 Agüero
13 Steffen
14 Laporte
20 Bernardo Silva
21 F Torres
26 Mahrez West Brom Formation 4-1-4-1 1 Johnstone 2 Furlong 6 Ajayi 27 O'Shea 3 Gibbs 19 Sawyers 10 Phillips 8 Livermore 18 Gallagher 11 Diangana 29 Grant 1 Johnstone
2 Furlong
6 Ajayi
27 O'Shea
3 Gibbs Booked at 90mins
19 Sawyers
10 Phillips Substituted for Peltier at 87' minutes Booked at 90mins
8 Livermore Substituted for Krovinovic at 80' minutes
18 Gallagher Booked at 40mins
11 Diangana
29 Grant Substituted for Austin at 70' minutes Substitutes 7 Robinson
13 Grosicki
15 Austin
17 Krovinovic
20 Ivanovic
22 Peltier
25 Button Referee: Peter Bankes Match Stats Live Text Post update Match ends, Manchester City 1, West Bromwich Albion 1. Full Time Second Half ends, Manchester City 1, West Bromwich Albion 1. Booking Nathan Aké (Manchester City) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Post update Foul by Nathan Aké (Manchester City). Post update Filip Krovinovic (West Bromwich Albion) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Post update Attempt saved. Raheem Sterling (Manchester City) header from very close range is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Kevin De Bruyne with a cross. Post update Attempt missed. Ilkay Gündogan (Manchester City) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right from a direct free kick. Booking Kieran Gibbs (West Bromwich Albion) is shown the yellow card. Post update Raheem Sterling (Manchester City) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Post update Foul by Romaine Sawyers (West Bromwich Albion). Post update Attempt blocked. Rúben Dias (Manchester City) header from the right side of the six yard box is blocked. Assisted by Rodrigo with a cross. Post update Attempt saved. Ilkay Gündogan (Manchester City) header from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Kevin De Bruyne with a cross. Booking Lee Peltier (West Bromwich Albion) is shown the yellow card. Post update Attempt missed. Sergio Agüero (Manchester City) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Raheem Sterling following a fast break. Substitution Substitution, West Bromwich Albion. Lee Peltier replaces Matt Phillips. Post update Attempt saved. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Post update Ilkay Gündogan (Manchester City) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Post update Foul by Romaine Sawyers (West Bromwich Albion). Post update Foul by Nathan Aké (Manchester City). Post update Charlie Austin (West Bromwich Albion) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Page 1 of 5 rewind previous Navigate to the next page next Navigate to the last page forward


bbc--2020-12-15--Slaven Bilic: West Brom boss could be sacked on Wednesday

Last updated on .From the section West Brom West Brom manager Slaven Bilic could be sacked as early as Wednesday .
It is understood the Baggies hierarchy have been deliberating over whether to make a change for a number of weeks as the club struggles to cope with life back in the Premier League .
Senior figures connected with the club had cautioned against it , and pleaded for Bilic , 52 , to be given more time .
However , it is thought Albion 's Chinese ownership is veering towards a different conclusion , which would make Bilic the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job this season .
When Bilic was asked about his future following the draw at Etihad Stadium , he said : `` I 'm very calm .
I love my job , I enjoy it and I 'm working hard for myself and my staff for the club .
`` Everything else is out of my control .
I 'm just doing my best .
I 'm not bothered what 's happening behind the scenes - I do n't care . ''
Sam Allardyce , Nigel Pearson , Mark Hughes and Eddie Howe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Croatia and West Ham boss .
Bilic has been in charge at The Hawthorns since 2019 , when he replaced Darren Moore and guided West Brom back into the Premier League in his first season in charge .
However , promotion was only secured on the final day as Albion ended the season with three points from their final four games .
There was then uncertainty behind the scenes as the financial investment Bilic wanted failed to materialise .
Although the club did spend £45m , a large portion of that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had spent last season there on loan .
Bilic then spent £15m on Huddersfield striker Karlan Grant , who has scored once in 10 appearances and wasted a glorious chance against City when the score was still 0-0 .
Uncertainty over Bilic 's future has been fuelled by his admission there have been no talks over a new contract , with his current deal due to expire in the summer .
West Brom did not respond to calls about Bilic on Tuesday evening .
• None A mega mixtape of the very best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his desire to coach at the highest level

Last updated on .From the section West Brom
Slaven Bilic led West Brom to promotion from the Championship last season
West Brom manager Slaven Bilic could be sacked as early as Wednesday.
The news comes despite the club, who sit 19th in the Premier League, drawing 1-1 at Manchester City on Tuesday.
It is understood the Baggies hierarchy have been deliberating over whether to make a change for a number of weeks as the club struggles to cope with life back in the Premier League.
Senior figures connected with the club had cautioned against it, and pleaded for Bilic, 52, to be given more time.
However, it is thought Albion's Chinese ownership is veering towards a different conclusion, which would make Bilic the first Premier League manager to leave their job this season.
When Bilic was asked about his future following the draw at Etihad Stadium, he said: "I'm very calm. I love my job, I enjoy it and I'm working hard for myself and my staff for the club.
"Everything else is out of my control. I'm just doing my best. I'm not bothered what's happening behind the scenes - I don't care."
Man City draw means more than a point to West Brom - Bilic
Sam Allardyce, Nigel Pearson, Mark Hughes and Eddie Howe are all reportedly external-link candidates to replace the former Croatia and West Ham boss.
Allardyce was due to appear on Talksport on Wednesday and again at the weekend but has told the radio station he is no longer available.
Bilic has been in charge at The Hawthorns since 2019, when he replaced Darren Moore and guided West Brom back into the Premier League in his first season in charge.
However, promotion was only secured on the final day as Albion ended the season with three points from their final four games.
There was then uncertainty behind the scenes as the financial investment Bilic wanted failed to materialise.
Although the club did spend £45m, a large portion of that was on the permanent signing of players who had spent last season there on loan.
Bilic then spent £15m on Huddersfield striker Karlan Grant, who has scored once in 10 appearances and wasted a glorious chance against City when the score was still 0-0.
Uncertainty over Bilic's future has been fuelled by his admission there have been no talks over a new contract, with his current deal due to expire in the summer.
West Brom did not respond to calls about Bilic on Tuesday evening.


bbc--2020-12-15--Antetokounmpo signs richest deal in NBA history

Last updated on .From the section Basketball Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has signed a contract extension worth a reported $ 228.2m ( £170.1m ) - the richest in NBA history .
His agent confirmed the details of the contract to ESPN , with the total value beating the mark of $ 228m ( £169.9m ) set by Houston Rockets guard James Harden in 2017 .
`` This is my home , this is my city , '' said Antetokounmpo on social media .
`` I 'm blessed to be able to be a part of the Milwaukee Bucks for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's make these years count - the show goes on , let 's get it . ''
Greek forward Antetokounmpo , who was drafted 15th overall by the Bucks in 2013 , would have been eligible for free agency after the 2020-21 season if he had not signed .
His new contract permits him to opt out of the deal after four years .
The Bucks finished top of the Eastern Conference last season , with the best record in the NBA , but were upset by the Miami Heat in the conference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ named the MVP for the second successive season in September and also won the Defensive Player of the Year - becoming only the third player , after Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon , to earn both in the same season .
Harden had two years , worth $ 59m , left on his previous deal when he signed a four-year $ 169m extension in 2017 .
Antetokounmpo 's average annual salary of $ 45.6m also surpasses the mark of Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook , who signed a five-year deal worth $ 206.8m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the equivalent of $ 41.4m per year .
The delayed 2020-21 NBA campaign , which has been reduced to 72 regular-season games because of the coronavirus pandemic , is set to begin on 22 December .
• None Want all the goals and talking points from Sunday 's Premier League games ?

Last updated on .From the section Basketball
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been one of the most dominant players in the NBA over recent years
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has signed a contract extension worth a reported $228.2m (£170.1m) - the richest in NBA history.
The two-time Most Valuable Player, 26, has agreed a five-year deal.
His agent confirmed the details of the contract to ESPN, external-link with the total value beating the mark of $228m (£169.9m) set by Houston Rockets guard James Harden in 2017.
"This is my home, this is my city," said Antetokounmpo on social media.
"I'm blessed to be able to be a part of the Milwaukee Bucks for the next five years.
"Let's make these years count - the show goes on, let's get it."
It marks the latest chapter in the rise of Antetokounmpo, who was born in Athens to Nigerian immigrants and once earned money hawking watches, bags and sunglasses as a street vendor.
Greek forward Antetokounmpo, who did not own a suit before he was drafted 15th overall by the Bucks in 2013, would have been eligible for free agency after the 2020-21 season if he had not signed.
His new contract permits him to opt out of the deal after four years.
The Bucks finished top of the Eastern Conference last season, with the best record in the NBA, but were upset by the Miami Heat in the conference semi-finals during the play-offs.
Antetokounmpo was named the MVP for the second successive season in September and also won the Defensive Player of the Year - becoming only the third player, after Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon, to earn both in the same season.
Harden had two years, worth $59m, left on his previous deal when he signed a four-year $169m extension in 2017.
Antetokounmpo's average annual salary of $45.6m also surpasses the mark of Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook, who signed a five-year deal worth $206.8m with former team the Oklahoma City Thunder, the equivalent of $41.4m per year.
The delayed 2020-21 NBA campaign, which has been reduced to 72 regular-season games because of the coronavirus pandemic, is set to begin on 22 December.