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Metal recycling scheme gives Andy’s Man Club a grand boost

A suicide prevention charity – Andy’s Man Club – has been chosen by Rochdale Council to receive a £14,000 cash boost.

It’s thanks to a national scheme that recycles metals such as artificial joints and coffin fittings following cremation.

The scheme, managed by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) and OrthoMetals, has raised a staggering £19,112 million for 2,551 good causes since it began in 2006.

The £14,000 donation raised from cremations held at Rochdale’s crematoria has been sent to the charity.

Andy’s Man Club

It began in 2016 when nine men got together to discuss mental health after club co–founder Luke Ambler sadly lost his brother-in-law, Andrew Roberts to suicide.

Luke, along with Andy’s mum, Elaine wanted to help prevent other families from experiencing the same loss of a loved one due to mental health issues.

Now the club has more than 130 locations attended by more than 3000 men and 900 volunteer facilitators across three counties, including two local groups in Rochdale – which includes Mayfield Sports Centre (pictured).

The donation is earmarked to help significantly towards the work in supporting men and their families to get together to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and helps men through the power of conversation to talk openly in a judgment-free, supportive environment, where it is ok to talk.

Deserved recipient

Councillor Liam O’Rourke said: “Andy’s Man Club is a well-deserved recipient who helps many men and their families to talk openly about mental health, stepping in to help guide many through dark times by getting together with others to share personal experiences and to know you’re not alone.

“The donation made is thanks to families and friends across the borough who have given consent to recycle metals following the loss of a loved one.  For that I say thank you, as with your help, we can help support the ongoing work that vital charities such as this provide to those in their hour, days, weeks, months, and even years of need.”

Lucas Whitehead, head of marketing & partnerships at Andy’s Man Club, said: “We are extremely grateful for the generosity of Rochdale Borough Council in their donation of £14,000 to Andy’s Man Club.

“As a donation-led charity, donations of this kind ensure we can continue running as a charity, going directly to venue costs, refreshment costs, and into vital awareness-raising work that is taking place in communities across Greater Manchester and the UK.”

If you are a local charity offering bereavement services to borough residents, you can apply to receive a donation in the next round, which will be available later this summer. See rochdale.gov.uk/funerals for further information and how to apply.

SEO Shakeup: Navigating the Impact of the Latest Google Algorithm Update on Your Rankings – Expert Strategies Unveiled

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Understanding Google Algorithm Changes

In the ever-evolving landscape of online search, the Google algorithm plays a pivotal role in determining the ranking of websites. However, with Google frequently updating its algorithm, websites may experience fluctuations in their rankings. If you’ve noticed a sudden drop in your website’s visibility, it could be a result of a recent Google algorithm update. In this guide, we’ll explore what to do if your rankings have been impacted and how partnering with an SEO Marketing Agency can be a strategic move to navigate these changes.

Stay Informed and Analyse the Impact

The first step in addressing a drop in rankings is to stay informed about recent Google algorithm updates. Regularly check industry news, official Google communications, and reputable SEO sources to understand if there have been any recent changes. Once you’ve identified a potential update that correlates with your ranking drop, analyse the impact on your website’s performance, focusing on specific keywords and pages.

Conduct a Comprehensive SEO Audit

Performing a comprehensive SEO audit is crucial to identifying potential issues that may have triggered the decline in rankings. This audit should cover various aspects, including on-page SEO, technical SEO, backlink analysis, and content quality. Pay attention to broken links, duplicate content, and page loading speed, as these factors can significantly influence your website’s performance.

Adapt Content Strategy

If your rankings have been affected, reassess your content strategy. Ensure your content is relevant, high-quality, and aligned with the latest SEO best practices. Identify and address any thin or duplicate content on your site, as Google algorithms increasingly prioritise content depth and uniqueness. Regularly updating and optimising your content can positively impact your website’s visibility in search results.

Focus on User Experience

Google algorithms increasingly prioritise user experience as a ranking factor. Evaluate your website’s user interface, navigation, and mobile responsiveness. A seamless and user-friendly experience improves your chances of recovering lost rankings and enhances overall user satisfaction.

Build High-Quality Backlinks

Backlinks remain a crucial aspect of SEO, but the quality of these links is paramount. Ensure your backlink profile is diverse, authoritative, and relevant to your niche. Avoid any toxic or spammy backlinks that could negatively impact your rankings. Collaborating with an SEO Marketing Agency can help you build a solid and natural backlink profile that aligns with Google’s guidelines.

Monitor and Adapt to Algorithm Changes

Given the dynamic nature of search algorithms, continuous monitoring and adaptation are essential. Implement a robust tracking system to monitor your website’s performance in real-time. Regularly update your SEO strategy to align with any new algorithm changes. Staying proactive in adapting to these changes can help you maintain and improve your rankings over time.

Seek Professional Assistance from an SEO Marketing Agency

Navigating the complexities of SEO and responding to Google algorithm updates can be challenging, especially for businesses without dedicated in-house expertise. Collaborating with a reputable SEO Marketing Agency can provide you with the strategic insights, technical expertise, and ongoing support needed to recover and enhance your rankings. These agencies often have a team of experienced professionals who stay informed of industry trends and algorithm changes, ensuring your website is well-positioned for success.

Proactive Steps for Recovery

Experiencing a drop in rankings due to a Google algorithm update can be disheartening, but it’s essential to approach the situation proactively. By staying informed, conducting thorough audits, adapting your strategy, and seeking professional assistance from an SEO Marketing Agency, you can recover lost ground and position your website for sustained success in the ever-changing world of online search. Remember, SEO is a dynamic field, and ongoing efforts to align with best practices will contribute to the long-term success of your online presence.

What you need to know about insurance

Having a reliable insurance provider is a flex in today’s world. People are putting more
effort into looking for a good insurance firm for their family. Deciding on the right cover can be challenging, especially if it’s the first time you have purchased a policy.

There are so many policies to choose from, making the decision difficult, but with the right information, people can easily get the help they need.

Benefits of a good policy

Boosts confidence
Not knowing what will happen in the future can be worrying. Insurance coverage gives you
confidence. You don’t have to keep worrying about handling losses that may occur in life. The insurance firm compensates for any damages or tragedy that may happen.

Loans
Insurance policies can work well for individuals who need urgent loans. People can use the cover as security, which grants them loans without questions from lenders. Insurance coverage ensures the whole family is well taken care of, even in the policyholder’s absence.

The government encourages people to have insurance
Insurance policies are recognised by law, and some are compulsory in certain areas. Having a policy guarantees you protection, which means that if something happens to your property, they’ll take care of things. A good policy will ensure maximum security. People feel satisfied knowing they have the government’s backing in case of miscommunication.

6 Tips for selecting an insurance provider

Choosing a good insurance company can be tough, but it is possible with the right techniques. Listed below are some of the tips for selecting the right provider.

Reputation and history
It is essential to check the reputation of the insurance company before settling. The industry has several cons, and individuals are encouraged to ensure they work with reliable providers. The internet is a great source of information where individuals are encouraged to check various insurance websites such as Pure Cover. Thorough research will help one know how long the business has been Operating. Individuals can also check reviews and select based on the most positive comments.

Financial capability
Looking for an insurance provider should be a smooth process. It is a long-term investment that requires proper and accurate research to prevent future mistakes. The right company must be financially capable, which means that in case a client requires urgent compensation, they can deliver without complications. Individuals are encouraged to get providers who they can comfortably work with. You can assess an insurance firm’s financial history by reviewing its portfolio.

Cost
Service quality should be top-notch, which is a priority when choosing an insurance company. Most people also work on a budget, and it is important to compare the prices of different companies before making a decision.

Many firms provide the best services at affordable rates. Face-to-face interviews are a good way to determine how well individuals can work together. You can evaluate the insurance providers based on their responses and how well they understand the client.

Customer support
A company’s customer support system determines the success of the business. It is essential to check if you are working with providers who will always listen to your issues. People are also encouraged to check what times the insurance firm operates and whether it resonates with them.

Communication should be easy; individuals are advised to determine if the company’s contacts work well. Reading the insurance firm’s terms and conditions before agreeing is required. It will help you know if you can work well together. Selecting a policy provider who deals with your specific needs is also advisable for the best experience.

Referrals
Asking for referrals from friends and family who have insurance is a good strategy. Individuals
can get the best insurance firm based on others’ experiences. It is also good to check if
your chosen insurance company offers discounts and other amazing deals. This is a good
motivation for the customers to continue working with the firm. Checking the location of the
insurance company is important. Individuals need to be sure that they can visit the offices
without trouble in case of any issues or inquiries.

License and accreditation
All insurance companies need proper documentation to avoid risks for both parties. Individuals
are encouraged to check that they are working with a company that has valid licenses from the
right board. Asking for certificates of operation is also advised, as this shows that the company is
operating legally. People can see the insurance company they are eyeing on the online
verification websites. This will give them all the information they need about the company.

Conclusion

With the current technological developments, individuals must ensure they are dealing with an
insurance provider ahead of time. One should be able to make online payments and check their
insurance status online. A company like Pure Cover offers online transactions to all customers.

Following the tips above will land you the best insurance company in the industry. The right firm
will guarantee comfort and satisfaction, delivering services beyond customer expectations.

Marcus Smith to miss England’s Six Nations opener against Italy

England will be without fly-half Marcus Smith for their Six Nations clash with Italy on Saturday after he sustained a calf injury in Monday’s training session.

The 24-year-old was expected to start England’s opener in Rome, but Northampton’s Fin Smith now looks likely to make his international debut in place of the Harlequins man.

Steve Borthwick’s side have been beset by selection issues in the build-up to the Six Nations, with Owen Farrell and Joe Marchant unavailable and Ollie Lawrence and Manu Tuilagi injured.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Manchester City v Burnley: preview, how to watch and prediction
Guardiola won’t follow Klopp and Xavi in walking away
Haaland set for Manchester City comeback

The retirements of Courtney Lawes and Jonny May have provided further headaches for Borthwick, who oversaw England’s encouraging run to the semi-finals of last year’s World Cup in France.

Assistant coach Kevin Sinfield was unable to provide a timeframe for Marcus Smith’s return on Monday, with England set to host Wales in their second game on February 10.

“Marcus won’t make this weekend, sadly,” Sinfield said. “We got the scan report through but we are waiting to understand exactly what that means for us moving forward.”

Borthwick will be forced to name a handful of uncapped players in his 23-man matchday squad, including Fin Smith and his Northampton team-mate Fraser Dingwall, who is tipped to start at inside-centre.

Despite the disrupted nature of England’s preparations, new captain Jamie George is optimistic regarding their prospects, telling the Rugby Union Weekly podcast: “I’ve been so impressed with what I’ve seen from the boys.

“But I kind of knew that coming into camp because of the way the English teams have performed and the competition in the Premiership.”

Manchester City v Burnley: preview, expected line-ups, how to watch and prediction

The State of Play

On the face of it, this appears a complete mis-match. World and European champions Manchester City have won their last seven games in all competitions and are starting to show the kind of form that makes them title favourites after an uncharacteristic wobble before Christmas.

The swagger is back, allied to the steely determination that saw them grind out a 1-0 FA Cup fourth-round win at Tottenham on Friday night.

They sit second in the Premier League, five points behind leaders Liverpool but with a game in hand.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Pep won’t follow Klopp and Xavi in walking away
Kompany hails relentless Manchester City
Haaland to return for Burnley clash

Burnley are in an altogether different position. They are 19th and have managed just three league wins from 21 attempts. That’s not to say they are down and out and, under former City legend Vincent Kompany, they will continue plugging away.

Their season will not be defined by match-ups like tomorrow night. Indeed, Saturday’s home game with Fulham represents a more realistic chance of picking up three vital points to close the gap to safety.

Team News

City are nearing full strength and buoyed by the news striker Erling Haaland is fit and available after being out since early December due to a foot injury. As he did with Kevin De Bruyne, Pep Guardiola will likely manage his re-introduction carefully so the Norway star could start on the bench.

Manuel Akanji and John Stones will also be in the squad.

There may be good news too for the Clarets too with Kompany potentially having four players back. Jordan Beyer, Sander Berge, Aaron Ramsey and Hannes Delcroix are fit and should go straight into the squad for the short trip to the Etihad.

Charlie Taylor remains unavailable, while both Nathan Redmond and Luca Koleosho are also missing.

Expected Line-ups

Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, De Bruyne, Silva; Alvarez

Burnley: Trafford; Vitinho, O’Shea, Ekdal, Al-Dakhil; Gudmundsson, Cullen, Brownhill, Odobert; Foster, Amdouni

What they Said

Guardiola on not losing focus

“We will take one game at a time. When we have had good runs before it is because we think that way. It’s Burnley, Burnley, Burnley. We now have almost all the squad fit. Manu is back, John as well and that is the best news for the most important part of the season. It’s important to have everyone.”

Kompany on his mentor Pep Guardiola

“I think people that have his quality have that effect on a lot of people and not just myself. That’s why they’re the best. Everyone is trying to build their own journey, it’s not a carbon copy, it’s got different elements to it but the greats of this world, it’s what they do. They trigger people to do something of their own.”

When and How to Watch

This match will take place at the Etihad Stadium at 19:30 on Wednesday, January 31 and will be shown live on TNT Sports in the UK. It can also be streamed live on the TNT Sports app.

Prediction

In the nine matches Manchester City have played against Burnley at the Etihad Stadium during the Pep Guardiola era, City have managed nine victories and scored 37 goals in the process. That includes a 6-0 demolition of Burnley in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup last season. Another comfortable City victory is to be expected, albeit some changes could disrupt their overall fluency in attack.

How The Laser Has Dramatically Changed Jewellery Engraving

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Jewellery engraving has evolved significantly over the centuries, constantly improving the engraving quality. The laser stands out as a game-changer among the myriad technological advancements that have left an indelible mark on this age-old practice. This precise and powerful tool has revolutionised jewellery engraving, bringing about a seismic shift in creativity and efficiency within the industry. The fine detail and precision you can achieve with a laser compared to hand engraving is much better, and it allows the jeweller to let their creativity run free with the beautiful designs they create.

The Traditional Craft of Jewellery Engraving

Before delving into the transformative impact of laser technology, it’s essential to appreciate the traditional craftsmanship that has defined jewellery engraving for centuries. Armed with delicate hand tools, skilled artisans meticulously carved intricate patterns and designs onto precious metals. This time-consuming and labour-intensive process demanded unwavering patience and a keen eye for detail.

However, as demand for personalised and intricate designs grew, the limitations of traditional engraving methods became apparent. Jewellers sought a way to marry the precision of their craft with the efficiency required to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. Enter laser technology, which allows jewellers to engrave intricate designs of high quality in a fraction of the time it would take to do them by hand.

The Advent Of Laser Technology In Jewellery Engraving

The application of lasers in jewellery engraving marked a watershed moment for the industry. This cutting-edge technology brought unparalleled precision, speed, and versatility, forever altering the landscape of jewellery design.

Precision Redefined: Laser technology allows jewellers to achieve precision that was once unimaginable with traditional methods. A laser’s focused beam of light can engrave intricate details with microscopic accuracy. This newfound precision enables artisans to create highly intricate and delicate designs, pushing the boundaries of what was previously achievable.
Versatility Unleashed: One of the most remarkable aspects of laser engraving is its versatility. Unlike traditional methods that rely on manual dexterity, lasers can be used on various materials, including precious metals, gemstones, and non-traditional materials like wood and acrylic. This adaptability has empowered jewellers to experiment with a broader range of designs and materials, resulting in a more diverse and dynamic market.
Efficiency & Timesaving: The efficiency of laser engraving is a key factor that has propelled its widespread adoption in the jewellery industry. What once took hours or even days to accomplish through traditional methods can now be completed in a fraction of the time. It increases productivity and allows jewellers to meet tight deadlines without compromising on the quality of their work.
Innovative Design Possibilities: Laser technology has opened a world of innovative design possibilities for jewellery engraving. Complex patterns, intricate filigree work, and even three-dimensional engravings are now within reach. Designers can experiment with textures, depths, and previously unattainable shapes, leading to a renaissance in jewellery aesthetics.

Challenges & Adaptations

While the adoption of laser technology in jewellery engraving has been overwhelmingly positive, it has not been without its challenges. Traditionalists initially resisted the shift, fearing that the artistry of hand engraving would be lost. However, as artisans began to explore the creative potential of laser technology, these concerns gradually gave way to a newfound appreciation for the fusion of tradition and innovation.

Moreover, the initial investment required for a jewelry laser engraving machine posed a hurdle for smaller businesses. However, as the technology became more mainstream, the cost of entry decreased, enabling a broader range of jewellers to embrace the transformative capabilities of lasers.

The Human Touch in a Technological Age

Despite the undeniable advantages of laser technology in jewellery engraving, you cannot overlook the importance of the human touch. Skilled artisans continue to play a crucial role in the creative process, combining their expertise with the precision of laser technology to produce truly extraordinary pieces.

The marriage of human craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology has given rise to a new breed of jewellers who leverage the best of both worlds to create bespoke and awe-inspiring designs. This symbiotic relationship ensures that, even in the age of lasers, the soul and character of handcrafted jewellery endure.

The integration of laser technology into the age-old craft of jewellery engraving has revolutionised design, efficiency, and precision. This powerful tool has not replaced the skilled hands of artisans but has instead enhanced their capabilities, enabling them to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship.

As we continue to witness technological advancements, it is imperative to embrace these innovations while preserving the essence of traditional craftsmanship. The revolution sparked by laser technology in jewellery engraving is a testament to the industry’s ability to evolve without sacrificing its rich heritage. The future of jewellery engraving is undoubtedly a harmonious blend of artistry, tradition, and cutting-edge technology, which means there are no limitations on what you can engrave on jewellery anymore.

Guardiola won’t follow Klopp and Xavi in walking away

Pep Guardiola says he has “everything that a manager could dream of” at Manchester City and has no immediate intention of following Jurgen Klopp and Xavi in quitting his role.

Klopp stunned the football word last Friday by announcing he would leave Liverpool at the end of the season after admitting he had run out of energy.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Neville urges Rashford to knuckle down to avoid unwanted reputation
Kompany hails relentless Manchester City
Haaland to return for Burnley clash

Xavi followed 24 hours later, revealing he was to depart Barcelona in the summer because his “battery levels keep running out”.

Guardiola has been at City for almost eight years and says he still feels “good” despite the constant pressure to deliver trophies for the club’s Middle Eastern owners.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow night’s home game with Burnley, he said: “I have everything that a manager could dream of.

“I have everything. The hierarchy support me and have always – we have changed a lot of players over seven years but a lot of them have been incredible, very supportive. 

“It’s a good environment, I feel good. Of course, one day it is going to finish but I don’t think about that right now.”

Having coached Barca, Guardiola is aware of the unique pressures that role brings, indicating he wasn’t surprised by Xavi’s announcement.

He added: “We cannot compare the pressure we have in England and in Spain, in my experience.

“It’s 1000 higher and tougher there than it is here. Here as a manager is the real place to be. Of course, there are a lot of games and six press conferences a week is a lot. But the pressure you feel in Barcelona is not comparable to any other club.”

Ward Hadaway bolsters Manchester team with strategic hires

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A law firm has announced strong growth of its Manchester team with the recruitment of seven new law professionals, including four partners.

The appointments add further expertise to Ward Hadaway, which has seen the headcount at its Manchester office grow by a third in the past year.

Margaret Evans is now a member of the corporate team and Nick Wells joins the commercial litigation and dispute resolution department. Grahame Love becomes a partner in the insolvency division, whilst Sarah Ellam will lead Ward Hadaway’s private residential conveyancing services.

Ward Hadaway’s Manchester office now boasts a dynamic team of approximately 70, up from just over 50 the previous year, reflecting its commitment to growth and excellence in serving its diverse client base.

Additionally, the team welcomes Phil Parker, a director in the real estate litigation team, a new paralegal, Lucy Evans, who joins the corporate team and Laura Hartley-Williams, an insolvency associate.

Liz Bottrill, executive partner in Ward Hadaway’s Manchester office, said: “Our North West team has experienced remarkable growth, and these appointments are a testament to our firm’s robust strategy and vision for the future.

“With a growing team that combines deep regional knowledge and broad legal expertise, Ward Hadaway is well positioned to navigate the evolving legal landscape and to support the diverse needs of our clients. We’re excited about the specialist skills and fresh perspectives our new team members bring, further cementing Ward Hadaway’s position as a leading law firm in Northern England.”

Pictured: L to R Grahame Love, Phil Parker, Sarah Ellam, Nick Wells, Lucy Evans and Margaret Evans

Stockport firm invents ‘groundbreaking’ edible feed tubs for animals

A Stockport company has developed a ‘world-first’ edible packaging solution for use in agricultural industries.

‘Nestub’ is a fully biodegradable and edible packaging solution for animal feed, designed to compete with and eventually replace counterparts in agriculture.

Fibrestar Drums worked with the GM Business Growth Hub’s Innovation team to solve the problem of ever-accumulating plastic waste and how to dispose of it.

The £8 million turnover SME provides industrial packaging solutions primarily for chemical and pharmaceutical markets.

Giulia Bonito, product manager at Fibrestar Drums, said: “One day, we got a phone call from the biggest animal feed manufacturers in the UK and they told us that they were using plastic containers for their feed, but were desperate for a more environmentally-friendly option.

“Disposing of their existing packaging was an issue for their farming customers, with many of the plastic tubs ending up either burned or buried or lost in the fields. We’d never served the agriculture sector before, but we’re always looking at ways to improve. So, we listened to what they had to say and then went away and tried to see how we could move into this new area.”

An initial concern was that Fibrestar’s traditional drums were tubular and are stacked one of top of the other, but the agricultural producers needed ‘nested’ tubs that could be stored one inside the other to maximise warehousing space and keep transport costs low.

The company reached out to the Innovation team at GM Business Growth Hub to share and help develop a solution.

Technical expertise

The firm also enlisted help from Manchester Metropolitan University’s special materials department, the University of Salford’s robotics department, Liverpool John Moores University and Lancaster University.

Bonito added: “Talking to the Innovation team at the Growth Hub changed everything for us. We set up some meetings, they listened to our situation and made sure they really understood the challenges we were facing and what we wanted to achieve. Then they worked with us to drive things forward, getting the universities involved to provide technical expertise.

“The result of all this was that we were able to create a 3D model that we could take to the animal feed industry and say ‘This is a design we can make out of fibreboard, these are its specifications, here are the results of the durability testing and here’s a CO2 comparison report.’”

Once prototypes were developed, real life testing found that by using the packaging to store feed meant that it became tasty for animals, and the chemical free construction meant that it was easily digestible.

Yvonne Grady, head of innovation at the GM Business Growth Hub, said: “Nestub represents a major breakthrough for farmers and animal feed producers. They will no longer have to worry about how to get rid of plastic sacks and can rely on their own herds, or the weather, to dispose of packaging for them.”

Haaland set for Manchester City comeback

Erling Haaland will return for Manchester City against Burnley tomorrow night.

The Norway striker has not featured since City’s 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa on December 6 due to a foot injury but is available for the visit of Vincent Kompany’s men to the Etihad.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Neville urges Rashford to knuckle down to avoid unwanted reputation
Kompany hails relentless Manchester City
England hero Hartley: India should ‘put respect on my name’

City go into the game on the back of seven successive wins in all competitions and with most of their injured players now back in contention.

Boss Pep Guardiola said: “Yes, he [Haaland] will be selected. When we have all the squad we are stronger. He is a very important player for us. He has had two months out but he feels good.

“We will train after [the press conference] but he will be with us.”

Manuel Akanji and John Stones will also be in the squad as City gear up for another crucial stage of the season.

“We will take one game at a time,” added Guardiola. “When we have had good runs before it is because we think that way. It’s Burnley, Burnley, Burnley.

“We now have almost all the squad fit. Manu is back, John as well and that is the best news for the most important part of the season. It’s important to have everyone.”

Guardiola confirmed England full-back Kyle Walker will retain the captaincy despite a revealing interview with a national newspaper in which he admitted to off-field indiscretions.

Burnley have won just one of their last eight games in all competitions and sit second from bottom of the league table but Guardiola remains wary of tomorrow’s opponents and former City defender Kompany.

“I have a lot of respect for Vinny,” added the former Barcelona boss.

“I know what he’s trying to do, even though sometimes the results are bad. They played very well at Aston Villa and at Spurs in the FA Cup. We have to be careful.”