Gus Poyet: ‘There are too many coincidences with Man City guilty verdict’

Gus Poyet: ‘There are too many coincidences with Man City guilty verdict’
EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Mandatory Credit: Photo by David Winter/Shutterstock (13974188dc) Greece coach Gus Poyet France v Greece, UEFA European Championship 2024 Qualifying, Group B, Football, Stade de France, St Denis-Paris, France - 19 June 2023
Former Sunderland manager Gus Poyet (Picture: Shutterstock)

Former Premier League manager Gus Poyet believes there are still far too many unanswered questions surrounding Manchester City’s guilty verdict.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that an independent commission had found the club guilty of all but one of the 115 charges against them.

The commission says City had arranged ‘sham’ sponsorship deals, filed misstated accounts and breached spending limits to ‘artificially inflate the club’s revenues, and reduce its costs, by more than £900 million’ between 2009 to 2018.

During that period, City won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and three League Cups, including the 2014 League Cup against Poyet’s Sunderland.

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City have officially appealed the decision and maintain their innocence, but Poyet insists the guilty verdict leaves a sour taste in his mouth, even putting aside his cup final defeat 12 years ago.

‘A big surprise for me is that they were found guilty of all the charges,’ Poyet told Metro. ‘I’ve never seen that in my life, but it’s bad for football, that for sure. It’s terrible for football.

‘And especially, I think it’s bad for the Premier League and the FA in terms of control. Because for those of us who were on the other side, who tried to do everything correctly, it makes you feel like, what was going on? There was no control. From 2009 to now, nobody was controlling anything.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 11: Vincent Kompany of Manchester City lifts the Premier League trophy at the end of the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester City and West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium on May 11, 2014 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
City have won six Premier League titles since the arrival of their Abu Dhabi owners (Picture: Getty)

‘And we play football in a different way, in a different kind of situation. So, I didn’t like that. We know in football, everybody tries to take a little bit of a percentage or an advantage. But here, it didn’t look like an advantage; it looked like something was taken if everything they say is correct, no?

‘People ask me, did you feel cheated? And I say, well, no, because I didn’t know. It’s a feeling. You’re sitting there; you know that somebody’s cheating.

‘We didn’t know. So now, to go back and put myself in that situation again is very difficult. We are in a world where we trust the people who are in charge and in control.

FILE PHOTO: Football - Manchester City v Sunderland - Capital One Cup Final - Wembley Stadium - 2/3/14 Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini celebrates with the trophy after winning the Capital One Cup Final Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Lee Smith Livepic EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Please contact your account representative for further details./File Photo
City beat Sunderland in the 2014 League Cup final when Poyet was in charge (Picture: Reuters)

‘Naturally, somebody has more sponsors, they have a better player, or whatever, they have better revenue. But that’s something that is natural in football. Now, here, again, if this is the final situation, it was massively different. It was tremendous.

‘I mean, we’re talking about a lot. And I don’t like it. I think it’s bad for football.’

But Poyet also believes there are still more questions around City’s finances that need to be addressed, particularly given the lavish spending towards the latter years of Pep Guardiola’s tenure in charge.

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‘I think the timing is terrible,’ he said via Ozoon. ‘I think there are too many coincidences.

‘They asked Pep Guardiola a hundred times about this case, and the final verdict is not coming until he left? Not before? Is it a coincidence? I doubt it.

‘It looks to me that they’re spending more from 2018 to now than before. So, like I said, I think there needs to be a clarification.

‘It would be nice to have a kind of political debate on TV? It would be nice to have a representative from the Premier League and a representative from Man City to discuss things openly.

‘I’m not talking about numbers. I’m not talking about secrets. No, no, no. The issues, the why, how?’

Poyet continued: ‘Is there a law that if you own a company, you can sponsor your own team? Yes or no? How simple I put it to you.

‘Until we don’t clarify those things for fans and for people of football that we don’t understand legal things, we are not going to have the whole thing to make an opinion.’

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‘I’m a pensioner and, yes, the triple lock has to go’

‘I’m a pensioner and, yes, the triple lock has to go’
An old woman looking at the sunset
Readers discuss the benefits of losing the triple lock pension, rejoining the EU and cutting VAT on electricity bills (Picture: Getty Images)

Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments

'I believe my generation of Baby Boomers has enjoyed and ruined prospects for future generations'

I read the letters from Kerry and Henry opposing Andy Burnham’s proposal to scrap the pension triple lock to help fund a National Care Service (MetroTalk, Thu).

As a pensioner with no other income,
I would defend the proposal, which won’t apply until 2030 in any case – by which time the world will be very different.

I believe my generation of Baby Boomers has enjoyed and simultaneously ruined the prospects for future generations. As a parent and grandparent, my priority in life is to place the focus firmly on their welfare. Geoff, via email

Wouldn’t other parties also get rid of the triple lock?

Does Henry think any of the other parties would restore the triple lock if elected? Probably not. Mike, via email

‘I agree with Burnham about Brexit’

I agree with Burnham about Brexit, the transparent disaster it has been for our country and continent and the need to get on and rebuild relations with the EU – perhaps going ‘all the way’ by seeking to rejoin following a fit, democratic process (Metro, Thu).

Time and again, we hear about Leave voters bemoaning their choice, often blaming the likes of Boris Johnson for misleading them, while a Remain voter who believes they voted the wrong way because they now see glories of Brexit would be a rare bird. Robert Hughes, London

Would rejoining the EU cause a ‘minority to drift to Reform’?

Burnham says he wouldn’t rule out rejoining the EU. Even if there’s a majority in favour, that policy could make a significant minority drift to Reform.

Got a question about UK politics?

Send in yours and Metro's Senior Politics Reporter Craig Munro will answer it in an upcoming edition of our weekly politics newsletter. Email alrightgov@metro.co.uk or submit your question here.

Along with abolishing the triple lock, he seems to be acting as a recruiting sergeant for Nigel Farage.

The PM’s only saving grace is his passion for the sacred union of Scotland and England. Alan Meadowcroft, via text

‘Small houses who have cut consumption to save money will get very little off’

Labour cutting VAT on domestic electricity may make for good headlines but it does not make for a fairer Britain.

Those with large houses, lots of gadgets and presumably lots of money and high bills will benefit most. Those with small houses who have cut consumption to save money will get very little off.

To help those most in need, VAT receipts should have been used to increase benefits that go to the poorest. Jon Burden, via email

‘I liked Burnham’s positivity’

Good to hear a plan to take our country back from the profit-making businesses. I liked Burnham’s positivity.
Richard Cheetham, via Facebook

Problem-solving rather than point-scoring is an ethic we can all get behind

At his Conference speech, the PM called for people to have an open mind, to try to find consensus and value ‘problem-solving’ over ‘point-scoring’.

Please let’s try to listen to each other and make our own decisions based on all the facts. Julie Lush, via Facebook

‘Let’s give each other hope’

The Labour Party Conference slogan ‘Hope Again’ is catchy. Let’s hope it catches on. I often see random acts of kindness, such as an elderly blind lady being assisted across the road the other day. We all need to play our part. Let’s all give each other hope! Richard, London

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Readers weigh in on Burnham’s proposals to change the triple lock

Readers weigh in on Burnham’s proposals to change the triple lock
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 29: Prime Minister Andy Burnham delivers his keynote speech on day three of the Labour Party Conference at Liverpool Experience Campus on September 29, 2026 in Liverpool, England. Labour enters its annual party conference with a polling boost holding a four-point lead with 27% of the vote under new Prime Minister Andy Burnham. He took over the leadership in July this year and has since driven a turnaround in the party's fortunes. (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)
Readers discuss the Labour Party Conference, tube etiquette and whether it’s acceptable to ask to swap seats on the train (Picture: Getty Images)

Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments

'This is a scandal'

I did not vote Labour at the last election simply to see pensioners disadvantaged by the removal of the triple lock.

In case you hadn’t realised, pensioners in the UK are bumping along the bottom of the pay charts, alongside the likes of Poland and Estonia. If the triple lock is abolished, we will fast become the poorest pensioners in Europe.

This is a scandal. A true Labour government would not treat pensioners this way. Don’t take this on the chin, don’t vote Labour at the next general election –I can tell you I won’t be voting for them. Henry Page, Greenwich

Is Burnham ‘clobbering pensioners’?

In scrapping the triple lock (Metro, Wed), prime minister Andy Burnham is clobbering pensioners – and this from a political party that purports to support the working man and the vulnerable.

Labour started their term in government two years ago by taking away pensioners’ heating allowance and now, in order to fund a national social care service, they once again hit pensioners – it’s discriminatory and just plain wrong.

Are there no other groups who could be funding this scheme, such as the super-rich? Alternatively, a penny in the pound on income tax would hurt no one.

Successive governments have been scared to raise taxes because it might hurt their chances of holding onto power, but Burnham and his cronies have done themselves already – I’ll never vote Labour again. Kerry Rose, London

If the super wealthy relocate, they will still pay tax on UK companies, says reader

John (MetroTalk, Tue) says the UK should cut spending and that the alternative of taxing wealth won’t work. His example of someone fleeing a wealth tax – the third largest taxpayer in the country last year, Chris Rokos, relocating to Greece – is not a good one.

Got a question about UK politics?

Send in yours and Metro's Senior Politics Reporter Craig Munro will answer it in an upcoming edition of our weekly politics newsletter. Email alrightgov@metro.co.uk or submit your question here.

He will continue to pay taxes on his UK companies. He is of Greek heritage and probably wants to head there! Don’t assume he is necessarily ‘fleeing the tax on wealth’. Laura Jones, Cheshire

Tube etiquette seems rare

Mike shares a story about a Tube passenger ‘repeatedly jabbing his elbow into my ribs’ while playing a mobile game next to him (MetroTalk, Wed). I would have jabbed the guy with my own elbows and told him to stop being so rude. If we don’t stand up to people like that, be it on Tube or elsewhere, they will think they can get away with such behaviour all of the time. Timothy Wigglesworth, Newcastle

Further news on transport etiquette

Further to discussion on ‘seat-sliders’ (MetroTalk, Wed), when your train, Tube or bus empties at a stop and the person next to you doesn’t move, I think it should be considered serial killer behaviour. That or they are too busy doomscrolling. Tony Fab, Glasgow

‘Just sit by the window and stop being selfish’

Emma (MetroTalk, Wed) won’t give up her aisle seat as she doesn’t want to feel ‘trapped’. While that’s not ‘weird’ it is inconsiderate. Maybe someone else doesn’t want to be trapped either.

Just sit by the window and stop being selfish. You could always ask your fellow passenger if they are going beyond your destination. Daniel, Middlesex

A noisy world

Re noise-related stress in the office (MetroTalk, Mon). A noisy office is actually part of what pushes me to work from home – except that home isn’t that quiet either. It feels like every five seconds I’m distracted by a neighbour mowing their lawn, military jets flying overhead or the sound of building work.

We live in an increasingly noisy world. Perhaps, if employers can make offices quiet that may motivate us to go in more often. Ellie Jaeger, Leighton Buzzard

Nob End in Bolton should be added to rudest place names list, says reader

Further to Britain’s rudest place names (MetroTalk, Tue), I grew up near Nob End in Bolton. There’s also Twatt in the Shetlands. Stephen Dugdale, Sheffield

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Emma Willis hits back at Strictly host criticism as stars rally around Josh Widdicombe

Emma Willis hits back at Strictly host criticism as stars rally around Josh Widdicombe
For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only Undated BBC handout photo of Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe. Issue date: Saturday September 5, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.
While Emma Willis has been praised for her Strictly hosting skills, her co-stars have not (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)

Emma Willis has shared a thinly veiled response to the backlash following her Strictly Come Dancing live debut alongside Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.

The seasoned broadcaster, 50, was flooded with praise at the weekend as the cast of 2026 performed for the first time, and Emma effortlessly slotted into the role previously helmed by Tess Daly.

However, social media was rife with criticism of her co-hosts, comedian Josh, 43, and pro dancer Johannes, 39, with cruel comments branding the former a ‘spare part’.

As fans of the Last Leg star come to his defence, his Strictly family is, too, with Emma taking to Instagram to hit back at the trolls.

Sharing an assortment of backstage pics from last weekend, the Voice UK host posed ahead of the show with her supportive husband, Matt Willis, and snapped contestants Will Best and Shaun Wright-Phillips enjoying some calm before the chaos.

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Emma ended her photo dump with a cryptic quote. It read: ‘You will get judged either way, so may as well pick the fun option’.

Husband Matt Willis was there to support her backstage (Picture: Instagram/Emma Willis)
She also shared a snap of Will Best and Shaun Wright-Phillips ahead of their big moments (Picture: Instagram/Emma Willis)
Emma appeared to address the backlash with a cryptic quote (Picture: Instagram/Emma Willis)

Johannes left a red love heart in the comments, while Strictly fans complimented her debut, hailing her as ‘amazing’ and a ‘natural’.

Others offered reassurance for the trio, with @suzanne_george1965 writing: ‘I think you all did brilliantly’.

‘Loving you, Josh and Johannes ❤️❤️’, added @hugsy113.

Emma isn’t the only person coyly addressing the negative reaction, as professional dancer Lauren Oakley penned alongside a snap of the new hosts: ‘We couldn’t be in safer hands than with these beautiful people.

‘Strictly is about family, uplifting others, and creating a safe space for celebrity contestants to be vulnerable and do something so outside of their comfort zone.

‘This trio have been so warm and welcoming, and they felt like family from the minute they stepped into the studio, and we LOVE having them with us.’

TX DATE:19-09-2026,TX WEEK:38,EMBARGOED UNTIL:18-09-2026 19:00,PEOPLE:Josh Widdicombe,DESCRIPTION:,COPYRIGHT:BBC Public Service,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy
Comedian Josh Widdicombe has been cruelly trolled online (Picture: BBC/Guy Levy)
Judge Motsi Mabuse defended the shake-up (Picture: Threads/Motsi Mabuse)

She described them as ‘professional, funny, kind and fantastic at what they do’.

‘I couldn’t feel more lucky to be sharing the screen and our Saturday nights with them!’

While he has yet to comment on the reviews of his live television presenting, Josh reposted Lauren’s Insta Story and added three love hearts, showing he’s appreciating the support.

Additionally, last week, after the launch show aired and viewers saw Emma, Josh, and Johannes in action for the first time, judge Motsi Mabuse had words to say.

On Threads, she said: ‘While people type away, tearing apart real human beings on television,real emotions !!!!!!!

‘AI is getting better at replacing them. One day we might not even know the difference.

TX DATE:,TX WEEK:,EMBARGOED UNTIL: 00:00:00,PEOPLE:Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe ,DESCRIPTION:,COPYRIGHT:BBC Public Service,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston
Emma’s debut alongside Josh and pro dancer Johannes Radebe marks the first time Strictly has had three hosts (Picture: BBC/Ray Burmiston)

‘And maybe then we’ll miss the days when television was still beautifully, imperfectly human.’

Predecessors Tess and Traitors host Claudia Winkleman have given their approval as well, having congratulated the trio when their new roles were announced publicly.

‘Can’t wait to tune in 😍 the ultimate trio 🔥💕’, Tess commented.

‘MAGNIFICENT. What a trio ❤️❤️❤️❤️’, wrote Claudia.

Among the celebs congratulating them were Rylan Clark, Zoe Ball, and Clara Amfo, who all missed out on the job that the likes of Sara Cox, Fleur East, and Sian Welby also went for.

The new hosts aren’t the only big change Strictly has implemented this season, as there have been plenty of revamped elements for long-time fans to adjust to.

TX DATE:26-09-2026,TX WEEK:39,EMBARGOED UNTIL:25-09-2026 19:00:00,PEOPLE:Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdicombe, Mosti Mabuse, Anton Du Beke,DESCRIPTION:,COPYRIGHT:BBC Public Service,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy
There have been many changes for viewers to get used to (Picture: BBC/Guy Levy)
TX DATE:19-09-2026,TX WEEK:38,EMBARGOED UNTIL:18-09-2026 19:00,PEOPLE:The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Celebrities ,DESCRIPTION:,COPYRIGHT:BBC Public Service,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy
The first live show peaked at five million viewers (Picture: BBC/Guy Levy)

First came five new professional dancers – Mark Karmalita, Maddie Ingoldsby, Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, and Lethabo Monametsi – who replaced axed pros Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas as part of the major shake-up.

Then came the introduction of Ellie Taylor, who took over from Fleur and former co-host Janette Manrara on spin-off show It Takes Two, which also has a new studio and format.

And when the series kicked off in typically dazzling style, audiences also noticed minor tweaks, such as the way the couples’ routines were announced, the opening titles, and a new version of the theme tune and logo.

Finally, when the celebs were assigned pro partners, the reveal was done in a musical chairs-esque number from the studio, with each star repeatedly swapping partners until their own was confirmed.

Ultimately, the first live show drew in 4.8 million viewers on average across the two-and-a-half-hour broadcast, with a peak of five million.

This was down from last year’s opening live show, which attracted 6.2 million.

Strictly Come Dancing airs at weekends on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.



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Car crash horror for Summer confirmed on Coronation Street with big shock to follow

Car crash horror for Summer confirmed on Coronation Street with big shock to follow
Summer Spellman on a Coronation Street background of the Rovers Return pub, under a dark gloomy sky.
Just when things were brightening up for Summer… (Picture: ITV/Metro)

Think Summer Spellman’s (Harriet Bibby) was about to be happy on Coronation Street? Think again. Her love life is a car crash – literally.

Life on the Cobbles has not been very sunny for Summer.

Not only was her adoptive father killed by the villainous Theo Silverton (James Cartwright), but she was powerless to stop her best friend Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce) from being domestically abused by the monster.

Worse still, poor Summer-time found herself a prime suspect in Theo’s murder.

The police had plenty of evidence against Summer. She was the last person to see Theo alive. Her diary was full of fantasies about holding the monster at gunpoint – and she was about to conveniently run off to America to study.

Summer found herself under suspicion for Theo’s murder (Picture: ITV)

However, the police caught up with her and hauled her in for questioning.

With the outcome looking bleak, Summer took drastic action to escape prison and gave up on treatment for her diabetes by turning off her insulin pump. This was a clear indicator to her loved ones that Summer had lost the will to live, fearing that she wouldn’t survive prison. The ordeal even caused Summer to lose her belief in God.

Things looked very dark for Summer (Picture: ITV)

Salvation came in the form of Tyrone Dobbs’ (Alan Halsall), who came forward and confirmed Summer’s alibi for the night of the murder, thus exonerating her completely.

Since then, Summer’s got her groove back and even has romance on the cards.

She’s had her head turned by newcome Marco, an aspiring tattoo artist. The pair even have their own adorable meet-cute – Marco stole Summer’s drawing and displayed it in the window of his tattoo shop just so she’d come by and see him again. That is adorable right? Not creepy at all. Who hasn’t nicked stuff from a crush to get their attention? Maybe Marco should get a tattoo of a red flag…

Summer was unsure of what to make of newcomer Marco (Picture: ITV)

Despite some reservations, Summer informed her besties Asha Alahan (Tanisha Gorey) and Amy Barlow (Elle Mulvaney), that she has agreed to go on a second date with Marco. This left viewers wondering if Marco’s the man Summer has been waiting for, or if there’s more to him than meets the eye.

Spoiler – it’s the second one. It’s always the second one.

In next week’s trip to the Cobbles, the forecast for this Summer romance looks very bleak when Marco gets into a car crash… and a shock revelation comes to light.

When Summer takes a call informing her that Marco’s been involved in a car accident, she’s devastated and rushes off to hospital.

But as she hurries into A&E, PC Jess Heywood (Donnaleigh Bailey) is there waiting for her. Jess explains that approaches and explains that Marco was involved in a car crash… in which he was the getaway driver.

Seems like Summer’s love story has gone a bit Grand Theft Auto. How will she react?



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Date Oxford Street will be pedestrianised revealed by Sadiq Khan

Date Oxford Street will be pedestrianised revealed by Sadiq Khan
Undated handout photo issued by the Mayor of London's office of an artist's impression of a pedestrianised Oxford Street in central London. Plans to ban traffic from part of Oxford Street have been announced by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. The proposal is part of a wider regeneration project which is supported by the Government, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner claiming it will give the popular shopping district "the boost it needs". Issue date: Tuesday September 17, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story TRANSPORT OxfordStreet. Photo credit should read: Mayor of London/PA Wire
A 1km section of Britain’s busiest high street is being made vehicle-free from next month (Picture: Mayor of London/PA Wire)

Sadiq Khan has revealed how soon you’ll be able to take a casual stroll down Europe’s busiest shopping street.

Cars, buses, taxis and bicycles will all disappear from Oxford Street by October 26, as the London Mayor pushes through his flagship project to transform the thoroughfare.

A one-kilometre stretch of the street will go vehicle-free in the initial step, known as the ‘transition phase’, after being green-lit in February.

While the road has previously been pedestrianised temporarily as part of trials, this will be the first time such a change will be permanent.

Lord Khan said: ‘Following strong support from Londoners and businesses, I’m excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street really coming to life next month as we start going traffic-free, just in time for the busy Christmas shopping period.’

But how will it be done?

epa13182963 People walk along Oxford Street with carrier bags in London, Britain, 21 August 2026. According to official figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retail sales volumes in Great Britain fell by 0.5 percent month-on-month in July 2026. This follows a revised increase of 0.7 percent in June, and reflects a slowdown in consumer spending as the initial promotional boost faded and hot weather led to fewer customers, particularly impacting clothing retailers. EPA/TOLGA AKMEN
Cars, buses and cycles will all be set to be banished from Oxford Street by the second half of October (Picture: EPA)

How much of Oxford Street will be pedestrianised?

In the initial phase, vehicles will be banished from the entire section between Selfridges near the Marble Arch end and Great Portland Street, just east of Oxford Circus.

This includes Oxford Circus itself, where Oxford Street intersects with the also busy but wider Regent Street.

Not only will cars be banned from traversing the shopping thoroughfare, but the street’s ten bus lines will also be re-routed to avoid the section.

There will be some exceptions – emergency services will continue to have access to all areas of the street.

Servicing vehicles such as delivery trucks will be allowed entry between midnight and 7am.

Push bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters will not be allowed through the new pedestrianised section, TfL has confirmed, with new cycleways under development.

Cars will still be able to cross Oxford Street at certain points, including on Duke Street, Davies Street and New Bond Street, although some junctions will be one-way.

Pedestrianised sections of Oxford Street will also be revamped with new planters and seating areas to replace the traffic lanes.

The Greater London Authority says the scheme could generate up to £40million in VAT receipts, as well as £20million extra in business rates.

A view of Oxford Street in central London, as vehicles have been prohibited from accessing a half-mile stretch of the road from Oxford Circus to Orchard Street between noon and 8pm for the event called This Is Oxford Street, to showcase Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan's pedestrianisation plan. Picture date: Sunday September 21, 2025. PA Photo. The road space will be used to accommodate activities and entertainment such as live music performances, art installations, food and drink stands and a literary festival. Oxford Street is one of the world's busiest shopping areas, with around half a million visitors each day. Sir Sadiq wants to ban vehicles from a 0.7-mile stretch between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch, with the potential for further changes towards Tottenham Court Road. Photo credit should read: Jeff Moore/PA Wire
Pedestrians were previously given a taste of a transformed Oxford Street during a trial day last year (Picture: Jeff Moore/PA Wire)

When will Oxford Street be pedestrianised?

Lord Khan said: ‘I’m delighted that on 26 October the transformation of the nation’s high street into a pedestrian plaza will begin in earnest – a world-class space where flagship retail will sit alongside next-generation workplaces, designed to host exciting retail and leisure experiences from sport to fashion and cultural events in the future’

The Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC), led by a board of both political figures and business leaders, wants the road to be vehicle-free by the end of October.

Before that can happen, TfL needs to carry out street improvements and realignments, including changing the direction of traffic on some roads and relocating bus stops.

However, this first step will be the ‘transition phase’ to iron out any potential problems, as the long-term future of Britain’s busiest high street is considered.

Following resistance from residents and Westminster City Council, the Mayor of London placed control of the new programme in the hands of the OSDC.

Last month, the OSDC took control of planning. All applications, from redevelopments to store frontage changes, will now be considered by the authority instead of the council.

On its website, the OSDC promises a ‘leaner, greener Oxford Street with spaces for events, rest and relaxation and activations as well as retail’.

As well as the new public realm created by the pedestrianisation, the project is slated to establish two new public squares, although their exact locations have yet to be revealed.

During the initial testing phase, visitors and businesses will be asked to give feedback until the changes are made permanent in 2027.

How are buses affected?

Shoppers and visitors use the pavement out on Oxford Street as bus traffic passes by following the announcement that pedestrianisation of Londons famous shopping street has been given official final approval by the London Mayor on 3rd April 2026 in London, United Kingdom. Oxford Street is a major retail centre in the West End of the capital and is Europes busiest shopping street with around half a million daily visitors to its approximately 300 shops, the majority of which are fashion and high street clothing stores. (photo by Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)
Buses are to be re-routed (Picture: Getty Images)

Ten different bus routes currently run through Oxford Street day and night; however, all will be re-routed to avoid the pedestrianised area.

According to plans published by TfL, numbers 7, 94, 98, 139 and 390, as well as N7, N98, N113, N137, N207 will all be redirected down Wigmore Street and Henrietta Place at the rear of John Lewis.

Buses will rejoin Oxford Street at Great Titchfield Street on the other side of Oxford Circus, with the exception of no 139, which will continue its route on Regent Street.

Passengers will need to walk an additional distance of around 100 to 200 metres to the new bus stops.

The pedestrianisation has its opponents, namely the now Conservative-led council, which believes the plans will increase pollution in the surrounding areas and create traffic bottlenecks elsewhere.

Councillor Tim Barnes, deputy leader of Westminster City Council, has criticised the plans. He said: ‘While we finally now have a timetable for the proposed pedestrianisation, Westminster City Council, residents and businesses on Oxford Street still have a long list of unanswered questions about how it will work.

‘If this is going to be the “greener, better and more prosperous” success that the Mayor has promised, then issues around access, air pollution, street cleaning and public safety, need answers urgently.’

‘Right now there’s a danger that we will have all of the downsides and too little upside. Traffic will be pushed to the small streets nearby causing economic and environmental harm.

‘We are writing to the Oxford Street Development Corporation with our serious concerns now it is obvious the Mayor is rushing preparations with little time left.’



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Oasis issue warning to fans after 2027 tour sells out in ‘shambles’ sale

Oasis issue warning to fans after 2027 tour sells out in ‘shambles’ sale
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Maria Laura Antonelli/AGF/Shutterstock (17136669w) The Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel from the band Oasis, on the red carpet for the film "Oasis: Don't Look Back in Anger," 83rd Venice International Film Festival, Venice, September 5, 2026. 'Oasis Don't Look Back in Anger' premiere, 83rd Venice International Film Festival, Italy - 05 Sep 2026
The Gallagher brothers will play 42 shows in stadiums across the world in 2027 (Picture: Laura Antonelli/AGF/Shutterstock)

Oasis has issued a reminder for fans to be ‘vigilant’ following ticket sales for their 2027 tour, with all shows officially sold out.

Over the weekend, fans who registered ahead of the sales and received a unique, non-transferable code were assigned one of nine on-sale windows to manage traffic and reduce waiting times.

It’s fair to say the process was anything but stress-free, though, as many raged over ticket prices, which started at £170.50, and after encountering technical difficulties on Ticketmaster.

Nevertheless, the 42 shows sold out in their entirety, so all Liam Gallagher, 54, and brother Noel Gallagher, 59, have to do now is remain civil enough to ensure the tour goes ahead.

Kicking off in May in Glasgow, the Oasis Live ’27 dates will then cover Manchester, Munich, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, Boston, Las Vegas, Slane Castle, and finally Knebworth, wrapping up on September 26.

It’s been confirmed that ‘no further shows will be added to this tour’ by Oasis and their team.

Following confirmation that the band’s gigs are sold out, they issued a warning to those unsuccessful in securing tickets.

‘All tickets for Oasis’ eagerly anticipated Oasis Live ‘27 tour sold out over the weekend during three days of on-sale windows,’ a press release announced on Sunday evening after three days of buying.

‘Fans are now reminded to remain vigilant and avoid scams selling tickets on social media. These tickets will be fake and invalid.

‘Tickets currently seen on secondary websites are also liable to be cancelled.’

They stated that ‘resale tickets will only be available via Ticketmaster and Twickets, at the price originally paid, nearer to the tour dates’.

Famously feuding siblings Liam and Noel also took to X with their own post, writing on the Oasis page: ‘Tickets for Oasis Live ‘27 have now sold out. See you in 2027!’

And Liam himself wrote in his usual humorous style: ‘That’s all folks we have officially sold out no more tickets left congratulations to everyone who got a ticket and to the people who didn’t sneak in f**K it yolo LG x’

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Canadian Press/Shutterstock (15454952q) Liam Gallagher (left) and Noel Gallagher of Oasis walk onstage together during their reunion tour in Toronto, on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025. Oasis 'Live '25' Tour, Toronto, Canada - 24 Aug 2025
Liam and Noel have confirmed that all their upcoming concerts have sold out (Picture: Canadian Press/Shutterstock)

As expected, countless fans were disappointed not to have been successful in the sales, with @leonlfc calling the system – which did not have a general sale or any other public presales outside of the process – a ‘shambles’.

@DianaUpton20633 argued that the ‘cost of tickets ruined it for proper fans’, while @anoyingdevils raged that it was ‘shocking’ how they ‘never even got a code’.

Meanwhile, @laurathomas141 demanded to know what the band is ‘going to do’ about the extortionate cost of resale tickets already being advertised on various platforms, with some exceeding £1,400, but still with the danger of enticing the right person who wants them badly enough.

‘These should be cancelled simple as’, @liamjdbutler said of the resold tickets.

Comment nowDid you manage to get Oasis tickets?Comment Now

@Madferit31_ has already predicted a ‘stressful fight for resale’ after failing to bag tickets this weekend, with @jordanc5991 calling the sales ‘brutal’.

Throughout the weekend, Liam, who is no stranger at all to an online clap-back, has been bantering with fans trying to secure a spot in the stadiums while also hitting out at critics of the pricing system.

On Friday, he instructed people to ‘stop moaning’ about the pricing, stating simply, ‘Don’t buy them’ if they had complaints.

Still, he was all for fans grabbing tickets to attend multiple shows where possible, with one user joking: ‘so you want all our money huh’.

September 17, 2026, London, England, United Kingdom: A digital billboard in Shoreditch, with an image of Liam and Noel Gallagher, promotes the Oasis Live '27 tour dates at Knebworth. Four shows by the rock band are currently scheduled for September 2027. 17 Sep 2026 Pictured: September 17, 2026, London, England, United Kingdom: A digital billboard in Shoreditch, depicting Liam and Noel Gallagher, promotes the Oasis Live '27 tour dates at Knebworth. Four shows by the rock band are currently scheduled for September 2027. Photo credit: ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com sales@mega.global
Oasis will wrap up their Live ’27 tour at Knebworth in September (Picture: ZumaPress.com/MEGA)

Full list of Oasis 2027 tour dates

  • May 21 Glasgow, Celtic Park
  • May 23 Glasgow, Celtic Park
  • May 25 Glasgow, Celtic Park
  • May 28 Glasgow, Celtic Park
  • May 29 Glasgow, Celtic Park
  • June 4 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 6 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 8 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 11 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 12 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 15 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 18 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 19 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 22 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 25 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • June 26 Manchester, Etihad Stadium
  • July 2 Munich, Allianz Arena
  • July 3 Munich, Allianz Arena
  • July 6 Munich, Allianz Arena 
  • July 10 Barcelona, Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
  • July 11 Barcelona, Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
  • July 16 Amsterdam, Johan Cruijff ArenA
  • July 17 Amsterdam, Johan Cruijff ArenA
  • July 20 Paris, Stade de France
  • July 23 Paris, Stade de France
  • July 26 Rome, Stadio Olimpico
  • July 29 Rome, Stadio Olimpico
  • July 30 Rome, Stadio Olimpico
  • August 10 Boston, Gillette Stadium
  • August 13 Boston, Gillette Stadium
  • August 14 Boston, Gillette Stadium
  • August 20 Las Vegas, Allegiant Stadium
  • August 21 Las Vegas, Allegiant Stadium
  • August 24 Las Vegas, Allegiant Stadium
  • September 4 Slane Castle, Ireland
  • September 5 Slane Castle, Ireland
  • September 11 Knebworth, UK
  • September 12 Knebworth, UK
  • September 18 Knebworth, UK
  • September 19 Knebworth, UK
  • September 25 Knebworth, UK
  • September 26 Knebworth, UK

He wrote back cheekily: ‘What else you gonna spend it on’.

In 2025, having announced that the ‘guns had fallen silent’ and they were reuniting after splitting in 2009, Liam and Noel hit the road.

Their Oasis Live ‘25 tour became an instant phenomenon from the moment they walked out in Cardiff holding hands, and what followed were months of unprecedented levels of euphoria and – for the first time in over a decade – unity and togetherness.

More than 10 million fans attempted to buy tickets from 158 countries, with an estimated £1billion generated for the UK economy alone as a result.

Speaking recently about the decision to tour again, Noel explained on Talksport: ‘It was after about the second Wembley show.

‘Nobody really knew what was going to happen at the (time). Well, you can see it on the documentary, but nobody really knew how it was going to go.

‘We did Cardiff and Manchester, and then by the time we got to Wembley, somebody said, “Well, you know,” and it was decided we were going to do it, and it was all set in motion then.’

Alas, both brothers have denied that they’ll be adding new music to the set list, and while Liam has hinted that 2027 ‘could be the last time’ they play live together, Noel gave a marginally more hopeful answer of, ‘I don’t know’ when probed on whether the band will continue into the future.

Besides, while festival bosses shut down the rumours this time, there’s still every chance they’ll headline Glastonbury again…



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Debbie’s decline intensifies in Coronation Street and hearts will shatter

Debbie’s decline intensifies in Coronation Street and hearts will shatter
Debbie Webster looking shocked while sitting in a chair and clutching onto her handbag in Coronation Street.
We’re not crying, you’re crying (Picture: ITV)

Please don’t say it’s the end of Debbie Webster’s (Sue Devaney) story in Coronation Street. We’re not ready.

The beautifully tragic genius of Debbie’s vascular dementia storyline is that it could run for a long time.

Debbie was diagnosed with the life-changing illness last year. On average, a person lives about 3 to 5 years after a vascular dementia diagnosis, though some people can live up to ten years with the disease.

The no-nonsense mistress of the Chariot Square Hotel lives her life as a series of ups and downs right now. The downs have gotten a lot worse and more frequent since suffered a stint in prison thanks to her sleazy son Carl Webster (Jonathan Howard).

He caused the Corriedale crash that Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank) died in, and gaslit his poor mum into taking the blame. Not to mention all the other countless headaches Carl’s selfish behaviour has caused his mum.

There’s been ups too. Like her fairytale, very Debbie wedding to Ronnie Bailey (Vinta Morgan), and the constant support of her badass menopausal girl squad, Debbie’s angels.

Sadly, Debbie’s decline is getting very noticeable now with her memory lapses and bouts of confusion becoming more and more regular. The slightest shock or disruption to her routine can trigger an episode or push her over the edge.

Unfortunately for Debs, she lives on Coronation Street, where shocks and disruptions happen at least three times on average before the ad break.

This week’s Corrie has seen Debbie tangled up in the mysterious attack on Eva Price (Catherine Tyldesley).

FROM ITV STRICT EMBARGO - No use before Tuesday 15th September 2026 Coronation Street - Ep 11950 Friday 25th September 2026 As Debbie Webster [SUE DEVANEY]surveys the empty pub, she???s horrified to see Eva Price [CATHERINE TYLDESLEY] lying at the bottom of the cellar steps unconscious. She hurries out to get help but becomes confused Picture contact - David.crook@itv.com Photographer - Danielle Baguley This photograph is (C) ITV and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms
Eva suffered a nasty fall (Picture: ITV)

The Rovers’ Return diva was alone in the pub after closing up for the night when suddenly she heard a noise and came downstairs to investigate.

The last person she expected to find was a spiralling Sam Blakeman (Jude Riordan), who had misplaced his phone and was desperate to find it. In a panic, the troubled teen pushed past Eva, sending her flying down the cellar steps.

In the aftermath, it was a disorientated Debbie who found Eva in the pub while searching for Carl. She’s horrified to discover the landlady unconscious, tries to get help but quicky becomes confused.

FROM ITV STRICT EMBARGO - No use before Tuesday 15th September 2026 Coronation Street - Ep 11950 Friday 25th September 2026 As Debbie Webster [SUE DEVANEY]surveys the empty pub, she???s horrified to see Eva Price [CATHERINE TYLDESLEY] lying at the bottom of the cellar steps unconscious. She hurries out to get help but becomes confused Picture contact - David.crook@itv.com Photographer - Danielle Baguley This photograph is (C) ITV and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms
Upon discovering Eva after the attack, Debbie became confused (Picture: ITV)

It wasn’t until Glenda Shuttleworth (Jodie Prenger) found Eva that 999 was finally called. As Ronnie tells Debbie there’s an ambulance outside the pub, she suddenly remembers in horror that she saw Eva. Another troubling sign of Debbie’s decline.

Sadly, the attack isn’t the only thing set to push Debbie further over the edge, in next week’s trip to Coronation Street.

As Ben Driscoll (Aaron McCusker) sits at Eva’s hospital bedside, after she was attacked and left for dead, Kit Green (Jacob Roberts) has questions Debbie and Carl about Eva’s injuries. Carl describes how he helped Eva to clear up because she wasn’t feeling well and then returned home.

However, later, when Debbie asserts that she’s going to buy Eva some flowers, Carl pulls out his wallet stuffed full of cash. Ronnie and Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell) suspect he might have robbed the pub and accidentally pushed Eva down the stairs. Will Debbie have faith in her son?

Here’s hoping for Carl’s sake, as the police soon arrive on his door step and take in the Worst Webster for questioning over the attack on Eva.

Carl Webster being led out of his front door by a police officer in Coronation Street.
The police suspect Carl of attacking Eva (Picture: ITV)

Still protesting his innocence, Carl tries to talk to Debbie about what’s happening, but it soon becomes obvious she has no idea what he’s talking about.

While Carl tries to hide his concern, it’s clear that his mother’s illness just got a whole lot worse. How much more time does Debbie have left?



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Westlife star sues surgeon after weight loss operation ‘nearly killed him’

Westlife star sues surgeon after weight loss operation ‘nearly killed him’
Mark Feehily needed a life-saving procedure after a gastric sleeve op led to a ‘dangerous’ internal leak (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Westlife icon Mark Feehily is taking legal action after a weight loss operation nearly had catastrophic consequences.

The Irish vocalist, 46, announced a hiatus from the group in 2024, which stemmed from his health issues.

Details have now been revealed of Feehily’s claims that his problems began in August 2020 after he underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, a type of weight-loss surgery, at Spire Portsmouth Hospital in Hampshire.

The Flying Without Wings singer has launched a medical negligence lawsuit against the surgeon who performed the op, which he claimed caused him to develop recurring sepsis.

According to The Times, Feehily claims in court documents that bariatric surgeon Nick Carter failed to remove enough of his stomach during the procedure.

Consequently, tissue left behind allegedly caused a dangerous leak, leading to severe abdominal infections, recurrent sepsis, and a hospital admission, the documents claim.

Editorial Use Only Mandatory Credit: Photo by Stuart Westwood/Shutterstock (13630733u) Westlife - Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Shane Filan Westlife in concert at The OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland, UK - 19 Nov 2022
The Westlife star – who features in the band alongside Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, and Shane Filan – went on hiatus due to his health issues (Picture: Stuart Westwood/Shutterstock)

In 2023, the star had to undergo another operation, known as a gastrectomy, to have his entire stomach removed.

Feehily’s legal team at Leigh Day Solicitors filed the medical negligence claim against Carter at the High Court, with partner Suzanne White saying: ‘We are representing Westlife lead singer Mark Feehily in a medical negligence claim at the High Court against laparoscopic, upper gastrointestinal and bariatric surgeon Mr Nick Carter.

‘Mark has been dedicated to keeping his fans updated on his health during a period that has been extremely challenging for him, but he has faced it all with his characteristic strength and resilience.’

White added that her client ‘very much appreciates the continued support’.

‘In order to respect the ongoing court process, he will not be commenting at this time.’

The claim is valued at more than £200,000, but a larger sum could be demanded if successful.

The Flying Without Wings singer has launched a medical negligence lawsuit (Picture: Instagram/Mark Feehily)

Carter denies negligence, with court records showing he filed a defence in January, denying liability. He does accept that some tissue remained after Feehily’s stomach operation and that there was a leak at the staple line.

However, the surgeon claimed ‘leakage was a recognised complication’ in approximately 1% of cases.

Carter’s legal team at Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland declined to comment on the matters due to the ongoing court battle, but he has denied having direct contact with Feehily, as his procedure was arranged through a private weight loss medical group.

Feehily kept the specifics about his illness under wraps for a long time, pulling out of concerts because of pneumonia in 2022 before releasing a further statement in February 2024.

While he didn’t reveal that he had a gastric sleeve op, he explained that he would be stepping back from Westlife temporarily as he recovered from life-threatening sepsis in the aftermath of another surgery.

He admitted he was departing Westlife’s US tour with ‘the utmost level of regret’ but insisted his recovery was the ‘absolute priority’.

Mark Feehily 27th National Television Awards, Portraits, OVO Arena Wembley, London, UK - 13 Oct 2022 Exclusive Mandatory Credit: Photo by Tom Dymond/Shutterstock for NTA (13446055sd)
He said his recovery is his ‘absolute priority’ after his years-long ordeal (Picture: Tom Dymond/Shutterstock for NTA)

Feehily informed fans that, three-and-a-half years prior, he was rushed to A&E in extreme pain and admitted to intensive care.

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, he was not permitted to have visitors; he remained hospitalised until December that year following emergency surgery to save his life ahead of his stomach removal in May 2023.

Feehily had a fourth operation in Dublin in late 2023 to repair a large incisional hernia, ultimately leading to him taking time away from the spotlight.

His bandmates, Shane Filan, Kian Egan, and Nicky Byrne, released their own joint statement to wish him well.

Westlife was formed in 1998 and originally also included Brian McFadden. McFadden left in 2004 and did not return for the 2018 reunion.

The trio are now touring to celebrate their 25th anniversary, with the shows including a 13-night record-breaking residency at 3Arena in Dublin, with shows in Glasgow, Manchester, London, and Cardiff to follow.

As for Feehily, he’s taking things at a lighter pace, hosting Mark Feehily’s Musical Icons on RTÉ Radio 1 while continuing his recovery, having not wanted to sit around and do nothing.

Filan, Egan, and Byrne have left the door open for his return when he’s ready.



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