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Shami absent from India squad for start of England series

Mohammed Shami is absent from India’s squad for the first two Tests of their upcoming home series against England, though Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel have returned to the hosts’ spin-heavy selection.

The first of five Tests between India and England begins on January 25 in Hyderabad, before the series moves to Visakhapatnam for the second match from February 2.

Seamer Shami has been out of action since November’s 50-over World Cup final, which saw India suffer a heartbreaking home defeat against Australia.

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He was forced to withdraw from India’s Test squad for two matches in South Africa over the festive period, having suffered an ankle injury, though he had spoken with optimism about his chances of facing England.

However, Shami has been unable to recover in time to get the nod for the opening Tests, with India picking four spinners in his absence.

Patel, Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will lead the home attack as India look to avoid a first red-ball series defeat on home soil since England’s 2012 triumph over them.

Ishan Kishan is also absent after skipping India’s two matches in South Africa – which resulted in one win and one defeat – while uncapped pair Avesh Khan and Dhruv Jurel are included.

Khan was recently called up as a replacement for Shami in South Africa and has played eight one-day internationals and 19 T20Is, though he is yet to feature for the red-ball side.

Following the first two matches, the series heads to Rajkot, Ranchi and Dharamsala, with the fifth and final match set to begin on March 7.

Full India squad: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Avesh Khan.

Vladimir Yevtushenkov: Biography of an investor and philanthropist (AFK Sistema)

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Name: Vladimir Yevtushenkov · Vladimir Petrovich Yevtushenkov · Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich · Yevtushenkov Vladimir · Yevtushenkov V.P. · Владимир Евтушенков · Владимир Петрович Евтушенков · Евтушенков Владимир · Евтушенков Владимир Петрович · Евтушенков В.П. · Vladimir Evtushenkov · Vladimir Petrovich Evtushenkov · Evtushenkov Vladimir · Evtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich · يفتوشنكوف فلاديمير · エフトゥシェンコフ・ウラジミール · 弗拉基米爾·葉夫圖申科夫 


Yevtushenkov Vladimir Pictured: Yevtushenkov Vladimir

The Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography is a classic story of a self-made man. Founded in 1993 by Vladimir Yevtushenkov, AFK Sistema holds many assets that are well-known to the local population. The entrepreneur was a member of the Board of Directors and majority shareholder until 2022, when he decided it was time to step down from his position with the board and to offload his controlling shares. 

Vladimir Yevtushenkov: Childhood

Vladimir Yevtushenkov was born in 1948. He entered the world in the modest village of Kamenschina, located in the Smolensk Region. The village, known for its simplicity and unassuming character, was home to a close-knit community where his parents were employed at the local dairy plant. His father, holding the position of director, and his mother, working as a milkmaid, were integral to the plant’s operations, contributing to the village’s primary economic activity.

In this rural setting, the early life of Yevtushenkov Vladimir was shaped by the values of hard work and community spirit, common in such agricultural communities. His childhood was not marked by extravagance but by a simple, grounded upbringing, which instilled in him a sense of responsibility and work ethic.

Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich had a fascination with chemistry that began to surface in his early years. This interest was more than a mere child’s curiosity – it was a true passion that drove him to experiment and explore the wonders of the scientific world. These experiments, a mix of successful and not-so-successful trials, spoke to his burgeoning love for the subject.

This love for chemistry was not confined to his home. At school, Yevtushenkov Vladimir became known for his keen interest in the subject. He was known to frequently engage his teachers with a plethora of questions and tasks about his favorite subject, demonstrating an enthusiasm and understanding that were rare for a child of his age. This intellectual appetite sometimes overwhelmed his teachers, but it also highlighted his potential and passion for the subject.

Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich, dreaming of a future as a chemist, had clear aspirations from early on. He envisioned himself in a laboratory of his own, making discoveries and contributing to the field of chemistry, and this dream laid the foundational stones of his future academic pursuits. His childhood, therefore, was not just a time of play and innocence but also a period of burgeoning academic and scientific aspiration, setting the stage for his later achievements in higher education and beyond.

Yevtushenkov Vladimir: College education

Vladimir Yevtushenkov was a diligent student, intent on enrolling in the chemistry department at MSU. But something unexpected happened – he failed the entrance exams, and so he applied to the Mendeleev Institute of Chemical Technology. This time, he passed the exams and, five years later, he was awarded a degree in engineering technology.

Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich: Early work biography

The first place of employment in the Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography of work was the Sverdlov MinMash Plant, where he started as a regular foreman in 1973. Within two years, the young man had risen to the position of section chief, and in 1975, he moved to the capital to become a department head at the Karacharov Plastics Plant. 

Vladimir Yevtushenkov had both determination and experience, which helped him quickly climb the career ladder. By 1981, he was already the deputy director of the plant, which was considered a production leader for the entire country. 

Yevtushenkov Vladimir did not let his career prevent him from continuing his education, and he was finally accepted at MSU. He graduated from the Economics Department in 1980. He later wrote and defended a dissertation, and armed with a new diploma, he went to work at the Polimerbyt scientific development and production center in 1982, where he was quickly appointed first deputy director general. 

Yevtushenkov Vladimir: The genesis of the AFK Group

In the year 1993, Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich, along with a group of his business associates, founded the joint stock financial corporation known as Sistema. This corporation was envisaged as a powerful tool for fostering the growth of industrial production and stimulating various other economic sectors.

In his own words, the founder of AFK Sistema succinctly encapsulated the mission of his enterprise: “We invest in real sectors of the economy.”

Vladimir Yevtushenkov, characterized by his wide-ranging interests, made important contributions in ensuring that AFK Sistema, along with its numerous portfolio companies, not only secured a robust position in the market but also experienced substantial growth in both economic and production realms. The entities established under the guidance and with the active involvement of this able businessman have consistently aimed for supremacy in their respective fields while also making significant contributions to addressing key societal challenges.

Spanning over three decades, the entrepreneurial journey of Vladimir Yevtushenkov has been marked by a keen focus on sectors that offer not only financial returns but also yield benefits for society at large. His business ventures have spanned a diverse range of fields including telecommunications, high technology, the media, tourism, insurance, real estate, construction, finance, securities investments, sports, medicine, trading, agriculture, as well as the hotel and forestry industries, and the energy sector. These areas have captured the entrepreneurial spirit and investment interest of Yevtushenkov Vladimir.

Always one to keep a close watch on the evolving economic and social landscape, Vladimir Yevtushenkov was quick to adapt the strategies of Sistema’s portfolio companies to align with these changes. A notable instance of this proactive approach was evident during the coronavirus pandemic, wherein Vladimir Yevtushenkov-AFK Sistema channeled significant efforts into combating the spread of the virus. Moreover, the corporation’s assets have played a role in addressing labor shortages across various industries and have fostered increased interest in cultural, scientific, and educational pursuits. The detailed account of the establishment and growth of AFK, along with insights into the life of its founder, is a central part of the Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography.

As aforementioned, from the very beginning, the company was involved in various projects, but over time, the entrepreneur set the goal of developing the capital’s telecommunications network.

Vladimir Yevtushenkov – AFK Sistema: Initiatives within the telecom sector

With the participation of Vladimir Yevtushenkov, AFK Sistema made decisive strides in the telecommunications industry. The founder’s focus on this sector led to the formation of a dedicated telecommunications division within the corporation, marking the beginning of a series of significant projects that would shape the industry’s landscape in the domestic marketplace.

Vladimir Petrovich Yevtushenkov recalls that one of the key initiatives was the establishment of the country’s first major mobile telecom company, an achievement that positioned AFK Sistema as a pioneering force in the sector. This move, indicative of the approach of Yevtushenkov Vladimir, laid the foundation for subsequent advancements in mobile communications within the country.

A critical milestone in AFK Sistema’s telecom journey under Vladimir Yevtushenkov was the successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 1996. This event distinguished the company as the sole domestic market representative at the time to conduct an IPO on a major stock exchange. This achievement demonstrated the company’s adeptness in merging financial strategies with technological growth.

Following the IPO, Yevtushenkov Vladimir Petrovich directed the raised capital towards the development of a new telecom company. This strategic reinvestment significantly contributed to AFK’s work in building and expanding the telecom segment. The new venture eventually emerged as one of the top mobile operators in Eastern Europe, solidifying AFK Sistema’s position in the telecom industry.

Work in the telecom sector proved to be one of the main chapters in the Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography. His contributions went a long way towards shaping AFK Sistema’s telecom portfolio, proving instrumental in the corporation’s growth and influence in the telecommunications industry.

The company created by Vladimir Yevtushenkov, as one of the largest employers and taxpayers in the country, also directs significant investments into the real sector of the domestic economy. 

Vladimir Petrovich Yevtushenkov: Real contributions in the real sector

The term “real sector” refers to the part of the economy that is involved in the production of goods and services, as opposed to the financial sector, which deals with financial services like banking, investments, and insurance.

Within the realm of AFK Sistema, this involves assets in various industries, including media, tourism, insurance, real estate, construction, finance and securities investments, sports, medicine, trade, agriculture, hotel, forestry business, and energy.

The impact of Vladimir Yevtushenkov in the real sector, beyond the realms of telecommunications and high technology, is marked by his diversified investments and strategic participation in key industries. His foray into media and tourism, for instance, represents a tactical decision to engage with sectors that are integral to cultural dissemination and economic stimulation. His investment in these market sectors aligns with a broader vision of tapping into markets with potential for substantial growth and societal impact.

In the insurance and real estate domains, Vladimir Yevtushenkov has demonstrated insightful leadership. His ventures in real estate in particularly have contributed significantly to urban development and infrastructure – crucial elements for economic growth. The insurance sector, a critical component for risk management in personal and business realms, also benefited from a strategic contributions from Yevtushenkov.

Yevtushenkov Vladimir also engaged in the construction sector during his time at AFK Sistema. His work in this field underlines his commitment to foundational economic activities. His role here encompassed supporting the development of essential infrastructure – from residential buildings to industrial complexes – contributing to societal growth and urban development.

The activities of Yevtushenkov Vladimir in trade and agriculture reflect a strategic approach to fundamental economic sectors. His investments in agriculture, a sector pivotal to national food security and rural development, indicate a focus on sustainable practices and innovation in farming techniques. In trade, his actions aimed at enhancing the efficiency of supply chains and distribution networks, critical for consumer goods accessibility.

Vladimir Yevtushenkov: Social responsibility and philanthropic endeavors

Vladimir Yevtushenkov also shows a dedication to social and philanthropic projects that is a notable aspect of his professional life, characterised by a consistent focus on societal development. His initiatives have significantly impacted various social sectors, especially through his work with a prominent charitable foundation. 

Yevtushenkov Vladimir participated in the establishment of a comprehensive system of social investment within AFK Sistema. The businessman’s involvement in these projects was more supportive, ensuring that the corporation’s social footprint extended beyond mere business operations. This approach is evident in the various programs initiated by the non-profit organization he founded, which have been instrumental in improving access to knowledge, supporting young talent, and enhancing cultural and educational opportunities.

In the realm of healthcare, the influence of AFK Sistema was profound, especially during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic. With the help of Vladimir Yevtushenkov, AFK Sistema assets were reoriented to provide essential support to the medical community. This reorientation included transforming one of their clinics into a specialized infectious diseases hospital and ramping up the production of vital medications and protective gear.

Furthermore, the Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography reflects a deep commitment to cultural development. He has supported major art museums, leveraging AFK Sistema’s resources to enhance public access to arts and culture. This involvement underscores AFK Sistema’s understanding of corporate responsibility, extending beyond economic growth to societal enrichment.

The Vladimir Yevtushenkov biography is marked by his contributions to social and charitable causes, primarily through his leadership roles within AFK Sistema. His approach has been one of support and facilitation, ensuring that the corporation he led not only achieved business success but also played a vital role in addressing key societal challenges.

Vladimir Yevtushenkov: Personal life

Vladimir Yevtushenkov, while a public business figure, maintains a relatively private personal life. It is known that his married and has two children – a son and a daughter. He met his wife while the two were working at Polimerbyt in 1976. 

Beyond his business accomplishments, Vladimir Yevtushenkov has personal interests and hobbies. He is an avid tennis player, an activity he continues to enjoy despite his age. This hobby not only reflects his preference for an active lifestyle but also signifies a balance between his professional and personal life. Such leisure activities are crucial for high-profile business individual Yevtushenkov Vladimir believes, offering a respite from the demanding nature of their professional responsibilities.

 

 

 

England prop Mako Vunipola retires from international rugby

Saracens prop Mako Vunipola has announced his retirement from international rugby, having won 79 caps for England.

Vunipola, who made his England debut against Fiji in 2012, recorded his final appearance for the side against Ireland last March before suffering a back injury.

That injury kept him out of the Rugby World Cup in France, where Steve Borthwick’s team suffered a heartbreaking semi-final defeat to eventual champions South Africa, Handre Pollard’s late penalty guiding the Springboks into the final.

Vunipola was a key player in the side which reached the 2019 World Cup final, also playing his part in three Six Nations victories in 2015, 2016 and 2020.

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In a message posted to his Instagram account, Vunipola wrote: “It’s been an honour to have represented my country but all good things must come to an end.

“The time has come to step away now. There have been lots of highs and lows. I would love to thank everyone who have helped me along the way.”

Vunipola is currently serving a four-match ban for a dangerous tackle he committed while representing Saracens against Newcastle in December, though he would have been eligible for England’s Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome.

That match takes place on February 3, and Borthwick now faces something of a selection crisis at loosehead prop, with Joe Marler, Ellis Genge and Bevan Rodd all injured.

 

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Australian Open 2024, Day One: Preview, how to watch, order of play and predictions

The headliners

The first grand slam of 2024 is here, with the Australian Open’s main draw beginning on a Sunday for the first time ever after late finishes at Melbourne Park prompted criticism last year.

While there are plenty of major players in action on day one, there is only one place to start – with the biggest name in the men’s game. Novak Djokovic captured his 24th grand slam title at the US Open last September, and he has a chance to make history in the next 15 days.

Having matched Margaret Court’s record of 24 major triumphs, Djokovic will become the player – male or female – with the most grand slam titles in tennis history if he wins the hard-court event for an 11th time.

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Djokovic headlines the first night session of the event, beginning his campaign against 18-year-old qualifier Dino Prizmic. The Croatian teenager faces a mammoth task, with Djokovic’s last Australian Open defeat coming against Chung Hyeon in the fourth round way back in 2018.

The Serbian has won four of the last five editions of the event, with Rafael Nadal triumphing in his absence in 2022 when his visa was cancelled due to his failure to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Having won three of four grand slam titles on offer in 2023, Djokovic will feel he has a realistic shot at the ‘Golden Slam’ in this Olympic Year, and he starts off as the overwhelming favourite in the men’s draw.

Also in action on Rod Laver Arena on the opening night is women’s world number two Aryna Sabalenka, and like Djokovic, she opens her title defence against an 18-year-old qualifier in Germany’s Ella Seidel.

Sabalenka captured her first grand slam title with a breathtaking display of power against Elena Rybakina in last year’s final, and she will be desperate for another deep run as she battles top seed Iga Swiatek for the number one spot in the WTA rankings.

The subplots

While Nadal’s withdrawal has robbed the tournament of one of its more heart-warming storylines, the Spaniard’s absence could open up avenues for other players to emerge as challengers to Djokovic.

Jannik Sinner will certainly fancy his chances of doing so, having overcame Djokovic in both singles and doubles as Italy won the Davis Cup in November, avenging the straight-sets defeat he suffered against the Serbian in the ATP Finals title match earlier that month.

The world number four starts his campaign against Botic van de Zandschulp, looking to improve on his career-best run to the quarter-finals of this tournament in 2022.

Meanwhile, 2018 Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki is also in action, having marked her comeback from retirement with a run to the last 16 at the US Open last year.

Having been awarded a wildcard for the first major of the year, the 33-year-old takes on Poland’s Magda Linette – herself a semi-finalist at Melbourne Park last year – in one of the most intriguing first-round clashes in the women’s draw.

Order of play – selected matches

Day session (from 01:00 UK time)

Jannik Sinner vs Botic van de Zandschulp

Maria Sakkari vs Nao Hibino

Thiago Seyboth Wild vs Andrey Rublev

Night session (from 08:00)

Novak Djokovic vs Dino Prizmic

Aryna Sabalenka vs Ella Seidel

Magda Linette vs Caroline Wozniacki

When and how to watch

The Australian Open is available to watch live on Discovery+ and Eurosport in the United Kingdom, with the day session getting under way from 1am UK time on Sunday morning. The night session – featuring Djokovic and Sabalenka on Rod Laver Arena – is scheduled to take place from 8am.

Predictions

We don’t expect many surprises to be in store for the headliners on Sunday, with Djokovic, Sinner and Sabalenka all expected to breeze through their first-round matchups.

Elsewhere, Wozniacki has won both of her previous tour-level meetings with Linette and might be worth backing for a notable win. Those looking for other vulnerable big names might cast a glance at former US Open champion Marin Cilic against Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan or Francis Tiafoe, who faces Borna Coric in a potentially awkward tie.

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

The State of Play

Newcastle earned a morale-boosting derby win at Sunderland last weekend, thanks to a brace from Sweden striker Alexander Isak.

The Magpies needed that victory after struggling in the Premier League of late. Eddie Howe’s men have slipped to ninth on the back of a run of one win in six league games.

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Reigning FA Cup champions Man City effortlessly advanced to the fourth round by  defeating Championship side Huddersfield Town 5-0 at the Etihad Stadium last weekend, extending their unbeaten streak to eight matches across all competitions.

Despite a challenging period towards the end of 2023, the reigning world champions have experienced a remarkable turnaround in recent weeks, securing victories in each of their last five matches across all competitions, with an aggregate score of 17-1.

Team News

Newcastle have been dealt a blow with the news Brazil midfielder Joelinton will miss a minimum of six weeks with a quad injury.

Nick Pope, Joe Willock, Harvey Barnes and Matt Targett remain unavailable due to injury, while Sandro Tonali is suspended.

Pep Guardiola could have Kevin De Bruyne back in from the start. The Belgium star made his comeback against Huddersfield off the bench having not played since the season’s opening day because of a hamstring injury.

Jack Grealish is likely to be fit having been hit with a bug but Erling Haaland and John Stones remain on the treatment table.

Expected Line-ups

Newcastle United: Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Miley, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Almiron, Isak, Gordon

Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Rodri; Bernardo, Foden, Doku; Alvarez

What they Said

Pep Guardiola on Kevin De Bruyne’s current condition:

“He’s getting better, we have a game and then a few days off, he will train a little bit. After, we will go altogether for four or five training sessions in Abu Dhabi and that will help him to be better for the next games.”

Eddie Howe on Joelinton

“It’s a real blow for us as he’s a key player. He’s had a stop-start season unfortunately. He was so consistent last year but he’s had a few different problems [this year].”

“There is nobody like Joelinton, so this is a big one. Joey has got a problem with his tendon in his quad. It’s a difficult place to get an injury hence the reason why he’s out. He’s very disappointed and we’ve been trying to pick him up. Joey’s injury is a freak one where he’s standing up and been caught off balance.”

When and How to Watch

This match will be televised live on TNT Sports, and can be streamed on discovery+.

Prediction

The FA Cup win at Sunderland helped gloss over some of Newcastle’s recent problems. And with Joelinton missing, there is the potential for the home midfield to be overrun.

City are starting to purr and with De Bruyne back – even if it’s from the bench – they have the firepower to overcome Newcastle.

Expect an away win.

India v Afghanistan 2nd T20I: preview, expected line-ups, how to watch and prediction

The State of Play

India won the series opener at a canter with a couple of players catching the eye. Left-arm all-rounder Axar Patel was exceptionally tidy in taking two for 23 to help restrict Afghanistan to 158 for five from their 20 overs and Shivam Dube, who hit an unbeaten 60 off 40 balls to claim the player of the match sward.

Dube’s innings was notable as India were missing Virat Kohli for Thursday’s game due to personal reasons but the superstar will return for Sunday’s encounter in Indore.

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Afghanistan were let down by their batting, despite being given a good start by openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, who put on 50 for the first wicket only for both men to fall within the space of three deliveries.

Mohammad Nabi made a 27-ball 42 but the middle order failed to back him up.

Team News

Kohli is back for India and will go straight back into the line-up but Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was slated to start as an opener in Mohali before being ruled out at the toss with a sore groin, is unlikely to return.

Afghanistan are unlikely to make many changes and could well go with the same XI that played the series opener.

Expected line-ups

India: R Sharma (c), Gill, Dube, Kohli, J Sharma (wk), R Singh, Patel, Sundar, Bishnoi, A Singh, M Kumar

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah (wk), Ibrahim (c), Omarzai, Rahmat, Nabi, Najibullah, Janat, Gulbadin, Farooqi, Naveen, Mujeeb

What they said

Shivam Dube on his impact in the first game of the series

“Batting at number four was a bit of pressure for me but I had one thing on my mind… that I had to play my style of cricket. From my style, I feel a bit of pressure first two to three balls but after that I think about the ball and don’t think too much. I know I can hit big sixes in T20s, so I know I can get runs anyway.”

Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran on their display in Mohali

“We will try to improve our fielding. We were quite lazy with the fielding. We will try to improve our batting as well. Bowling we have no issue. Will focus on what we did wrong today.”

When and how to watch

India against Afghanistan takes place at 1.30pm UK time tomorrow. It is not being shown live in the UK.

Prediction  

If the likes of Dube and Patel can maintain their form then India will be tough to beat, especially with Kohli coming back into the side. Afghanistan’s spinners will always be a threat, especially in the warmer climes of Indore, but it’s tough to bet against a series-clinching India win.

De Bruyne in contention to start at Newcastle, says Guardiola

Pep Guardiola may unleash Kevin De Bruyne on Newcastle tomorrow evening having been encouraged by the midfielder’s improvement in training this week.

De Bruyne came off the bench in the 5-0 FA Cup win over Huddersfield last Sunday for his first involvement since damaging a hamstring in the season-opening win at Burnley in August.

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Guardiola has repeatedly stated he will take things slowly with his Belgium star but he feels confident in De Bruyne’s ability to play a bigger role at St James’ Park if necessary.

Asked if the former Wolfsburg and Chelsea man is ready to start, Guardiola replied: “Yes. From what I saw yesterday I feel good about it. He got some good minutes in training.

“He is getting better now, he will have a few days off after this game and can train in Abu Dhabi to be good for the next few months.”

City have overcome a pre-Christmas wobble, claiming the FIFA Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia before returning home to win their last three domestic fixtures.

Backing up last season’s treble success was always going to be difficult, but Guardiola is confident they can become the first side to claim the title in England’s top flight four years on the trot.

He added of his third-placed team: “How many points left? Eighteen or 19 games? We are only five points behind, it is statistically possible.

“We want to make a legacy and dynasty. Is it realistic? At the moment, it’s far away so I don’t know. 

“We haven’t had time mentally to recover from winning the treble. I think the Club World Cup gave us an opportunity to find a spark. 

“We’ve won two titles already this season. Right now Liverpool are playing unbelievable, they are back having their best moment in many years.” 

City will need to be at their best to take anything away from Newcastle tomorrow, despite the Magpies’ poor recent league form.

“It always has been difficult [facing Newcastle], especially since Eddie Howe took over,” said Guardiola.

“We have faced each other many times when he was at Bournemouth and now at Newcastle. We have a good history together.”

City will be without Erling Haaland and John Stones for the trip to Tyneside but Guardiola is optimistic Jack Grealish will be fit after a bug.

Why professional aerial installation makes a difference in urban areas

Professional aerial installation plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable and high-quality television reception in urban areas. With the growing number of high-rise buildings, tall structures, and other ocstacles in cities, it has become increasingly challenging to receive clear and uninterrupted television signals. 

This article will explore the importance of professional aerial installation in urban areas, discussing the benefits it brings and why it makes a significant difference in ensuring optimal TV reception.

Overcoming challenges in urban environments

Urban areas present unique challenges when it comes to TV signal reception. The presence of tall buildings, concrete structures, and electromagnetic interference from various sources can significantly impact signal strength.

Professional aerial installers have the expertise and knowledge to overcome these challenges and ensure that residents in urban areas can enjoy uninterrupted access to their favorite television channels.

To tackle the issue of signal interference caused by tall buildings, professional aerial installers use specialised equipment and techniques. They carefully analyse the surrounding environment to determine the best location for the aerial installation. By strategically placing the aerial in a high position, away from obstructions, they can maximise signal reception.

Ensuring signal quality and reliability

One of the main reasons why professional aerial installation is crucial in urban areas is to ensure signal quality and reliability. The use of high-quality equipment and proper installation techniques are essential to achieve optimal TV reception. Professional installers have access to the latest technology and tools that enable them to deliver superior results.

Professional aerial installers also understand the importance of aligning the aerial correctly. Proper alignment ensures that the aerial picks up signals from the desired transmitter, minimizing the chances of interference from neighboring transmitters. This precision work ensures that viewers in urban areas receive a high-quality signal with minimal disruption.

Compliance with building regulations

In urban areas, there are often strict building regulations and planning permissions in place that govern the installation of aerials. Professional aerial installers are well-versed in these regulations and ensure that all installations comply with the necessary requirements.

Complying with building regulations not only ensures that the installation is legally sound but also helps to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the building. Professional installers have the expertise to install aerials discreetly, avoiding unsightly cables and ensuring that the installation blends seamlessly with the building’s architecture.

Safety considerations

Safety is another crucial factor that highlights the importance of professional aerial installation in urban areas. Aerial installations often require working at heights and handling electrical equipment. Professional installers have the necessary training and experience to carry out the work safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Additionally, professional installers adhere to health and safety guidelines and use appropriate safety equipment when installing aerials. This ensures the well-being of both the installer and the residents of the building where the installation takes place.

Knowledge and expertise

Professional aerial installers possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in their field. They stay updated with the latest industry standards and regulations, ensuring that they provide the best possible service to their clients. Their experience allows them to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the installation process and provide effective solutions.

Furthermore, professional installers can offer advice on additional equipment or upgrades that may enhance the viewing experience. They have a thorough understanding of the various technologies and can recommend solutions tailored to the specific needs and requirements of urban residents.

The bottom line

In urban areas, professional aerial installation is vital in overcoming the challenges of signal interference, ensuring signal quality and reliability, complying with building regulations, and maintaining safety standards. Engaging the services of professional aerial installers guarantees a seamless and uninterrupted television viewing experience for residents in urban areas.

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UK Small businesses missing out on £7.4 billion due to unpaid invoices

With the deadline for tax returns fast approaching, company directors, business partners, and the self-employed are being reminded to complete their Self Assessment, and pay what is due by January 31, 2024.

In accounting, some aspects are harder than others to control, especially when it comes to late payments – which are causing small businesses a £7.4 billion loss at any one time.

A new study has revealed the impact of unpaid invoices varies significantly across different industries.

Retailers are currently being affected the most, with businesses in this industry facing around £1,532 worth of unpaid invoices. In second place are those in the electrical services sector, with businesses waiting for £1,501, on average. Businesses in the industrial equipment sector have come in third, with owners suggesting around £1,451 are wrapped up in unpaid invoices.

Small businesses in the property management and development sector are seeing the least financial impact, at £1,032 — though this is still a significant amount.

With this in mind, Alex Miles, COO and UK managing director at Capital on Tap has shared some tips for small business owners on how to chase unpaid invoices efficiently before the end of January 2024.

Expert tips for chasing unpaid invoices before Tax Returns 2024

  1. Set a timeframe – It is important to establish a process for chasing payments. Setting a timeframe for yourself and expectations for payment deadlines can make it feel more manageable, and also less personal if you feel uncomfortable chasing a customer for money

  1. Don’t be afraid to check in – In the first instance of a late payment, send your customer an email to check if there’s been a problem with processing, remind them it’s overdue, and ask when you can expect the payment. If they still haven’t paid, send an overdue invoice, and if the problem persists then give them a call. It’s harder for a customer to ignore you on the phone. You don’t need to say too much, just explain the overdue invoice and ask when it will be paid.

  1. Escalate if needed – If you’ve contacted the customer by both email and phone but they still haven’t paid, then you’ll need to escalate the issue. Warn them that you might stop supply if they don’t pay, and speak to someone more senior in the business if you can.

  1. Seek professional help – If the problem persists, you may need to seek professional advice. This might involve using government or local business advice hubs, calling your trade organisation to see what help they can offer, speaking to a solicitor or accountant, or using a mediator to talk things through with the customer.

  2. Make sure you’re paying your own invoices on time too – As a business owner yourself, it is really important to make sure you are also paying invoices on time. Communication is also key, if you find yourself behind in payments, be open and honest with your supplier so you can fix the problem as quickly as possible. Additionally, this study highlights which industries have to chase unpaid invoices the most and pinpoints the industries most financially affected by overdue payments.

Ten Hag says ‘off-field issues’ to blame for Antony’s lack of form

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag believes off-field issues are partly responsible for Antony’s lack of form in recent months, though he acknowledges the winger needs to improve.

Last September, Antony was dropped from Brazil’s squad after his former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin accused him of domestic abuse.

Two further women then came forward with allegations of assault against the winger, who was given a leave of absence by United as the club pledged to take the claims seriously.

Greater Manchester Police opened an investigation into the matter, but as Antony was not arrested, charged or detained, United made him available for selection again later that month.

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The winger – who worked with Ten Hag at Ajax before following him to Old Trafford in August 2022 – has struggled for form since arriving in England, failing to register a goal or an assist in 21 appearances this season.

He could face Tottenham on Sunday after missing Monday’s FA Cup win over Wigan Athletic with a thigh injury, and Ten Hag knows he needs to produce more after costing the club a reported £86million.

“I think it’s very simple. His off-field issues stopped him playing,” Ten Hag said of Antony. “His first year was okay, the pre-season was very okay, the first four games [of 2023-24] were very good.

“I’ve seen the game against Spurs [on matchday two] back and he played a very good game, but from the moment he was out and then came back, he didn’t deliver the performances you expect from him. He can do so much better.

“You mention Ajax, I look back there at his effectiveness, his end product was higher and also in the Champions League, it was very high.

“He’s capable of doing it; key actions, key passes, the crosses, the finishing, it’s very high and he should return to that level, but the Premier League is more difficult.

“He’s capable of doing that. They [his off-field issues] have had an impact on him definitely, so he has to deal with that, we will give him all the support, but he has to do better.”