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Do you need to play any other games before Resident Evil Requiem?

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Do you need to play any other games before Resident Evil Requiem?
Resident Evil Requiem – no homework needed (Capcom)

The Thursday letters page looks forward to a promising year of big name video game releases, as one reader asks why Silent Hill Townfall isn’t on Xbox.

Games Inbox is a collection of our readers’ letters, comments, and opinions. To join in with the discussions yourself email gamecentral@metro.co.uk

No spoilers
Super glad that Resident Evil Requiem reviewed well. I assumed it would after the glowing previews but it’s nice to see anyway. I will absolutely be getting it and possibly day one, as I do love me some Resident Evil and it’s probably better to be playing it while it’s still winter and dark out.

I’ve got questions but I guess they’re all spoilers really, so you can’t answer them, but I’m curious as to where the plot goes. Resident Evil 7 was going to be the first part of a trilogy but as I understand that’s not the case anymore, but does Requiem have any links to the last two games? And does it hint about the future at all? I’m curious to know where things are going, knowing it’s out on the 30th anniversary and all.

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Surely there must be a teaser at the end, but what’s it about and is there a hint about the next game? I guess you can’t answer that either, but what can you say that’s non-spoiler? From your initial review it sounds like you don’t need to play any of the other Resident Evil games to enjoy it?
Cooper

GC: The story has some new lore details but it’s basically standalone and any hints about the future are very vague.

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Next generation
Great Resident Evil Requiem review, that has me pumped for it coming out on Friday. I must be a fan though because I’m immediately starting to wonder where things go from here. I’m assuming we’ll see Grace again, but I do feel we need to catch up with a lot of the old crew (emphasis on old) as they’ve not been in the limelight for years, outside their remakes.

I used to think of Jill Valentine as the most iconic Resident Evil character, but she’s barely had anything to do since Resident Evil 3. She was barely in Resident Evil 5 and hasn’t been in any mainline game since then, which seems a shame.

I’d also like to see new games with Claire, Rebecca Chambers, and Barry Burton. If they’re getting too old then at least give them a good send off and don’t just kill them off screen or in a cut scene. I guess the new crew will be Rose and Grace but neither of those are trained fighters so I feel that if there’s going to be new recruits we need to see a bunch more people still, with different skills.
Grackle

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Left hand vs. right hand
That Wolverine release date tweet was pretty weird but putting the betas for Marathon and Horizon Hunters Gathering on the same weekend is mind-boggling to me. How can Sony possibly be that careless? I don’t see how it’s possible to run a professional operation and not be aware that your two games both have their betas on the same weekend.

And there’s absolutely no excuse either. It’s not Christmas, there’s not some event coming up they need to get ready for. Horizon doesn’t even have a release date, so it literally could’ve been any other week, including next week.

What these companies still don’t realise is that it’s not just money people are short of but time and even if the betas are free no one’s going to have time for them both. I long ago realised that Sony didn’t beat Xbox because they were smarter than them, it’s just that Microsoft was even dumber.
Shakma

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Unexplained exclusivity
Judging by all the announcements, Silent Hill Townfall won’t be releasing on Xbox anytime soon. As a Silent Hill fan, that only has an Xbox, this is very frustrating. Two of the last three Silent Hill games have skipped the Xbox for some period of time.

Has there been reasons given?

Presumably it’s Sony giving Konami cash to keep it off Xbox for a certain amount of time but why? What are they worried about? They are trouncing Xbox.

The fact they are paying external companies to keep games off of other platforms is anti-consumer in this day and age and is very disappointing.
Matt

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GC: It’s probably Sony paying for the exclusivity, but that’s unusual for a series that’s never been a massive seller. It could also be Konami deciding that developing an Xbox version isn’t worth their while. Neither option seems very likely on the face of it and yet there’s no other obvious explanation.

Fenyx from the flames
I feel compelled to write in about Immortal Fenyx Rising, I missed it first time around but saw it on Vinted for £5. Having never heard of it before I gave it a chance and before I knew it, I was totally hooked. After playing God Of War I really got into Greek mythology, so this game is right up my alley.

It’s from the same developers that made Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, which also happens to be my favourite. The combat is similar, it’s got witty dialogue narrated by Greek gods, and kinda reminds me of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild too.
Adam_Lion_23 (PSN ID)

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Hundred percent
I know everyone will be talking about Resident Evil Requiem, but I have to mention The Hundred Line and say how good it is. It is a brilliant visual novel with a basic, but enjoyable, fight system for those parts of the game.

The game was made by the same people who made Danganronpa and it is just as good. The characters are all charismatic, with one constantly breaking the fourth wall in a funny way, referencing the Danganronpa games and gaming tropes/writing.

The story is excellent, and I am now on the second run, after a fairly shocking end to the first, and have opened up story choices so what I do will affect the story going forward. It has a fantastic soundtrack as well.

It is expensive but it is highly recommended for anyone who is a fan of the genre and worth the money.
Simon

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Reverse engineering
I suppose it makes sense that Sony would run out and buy any new console that gets released, in order to see how it ticks, but the idea of them pre-ordering a bunch of Switch 2s, to see if they can get Gran Turismo 7 running on them, is funny to me.

As to what it might mean. I suspect it’s just an experiment they did, and it doesn’t have any greater meaning, but then again the PlayStation 5 portable rumours are fairly believable, so maybe they’re looking for some tricks they can borrow. I’m up for the PSP2 and definitely more so than I am the PlayStation 6.
Grant

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A promising year
It’s a boon to see Resident Evil Requiem scored so high and review exceptionally well. Especially since it’s two days to release and I’m now assured that my pre-order isn’t a mistake or the game is a disappointment. It’s a huge weight off the shoulders of myself and the fans worldwide. Now I think about it, since the last release of this month is almost here, we are locked in for a year of goodness, when it comes to gaming, especially after Wolverine’s release date was confirmed yesterday.

Crimson Desert and Fatal Frame 2 Remake in March, Saros and Pragmata in April, 007 First Light in May, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth for Switch 2 in June; GTA 6 and so much more to look forward to. Stacked is putting it lightly. We also have Xbox’s main IP in Halo: Campaign Evolved arriving on PlayStation 5 as well.

I can say that I’m absolutely buzzing over these stupendous releases, but I’m very concerned for what is next for Xbox. Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond have officially retired, Asha Sharma is the new CEO but what could that mean for Xbox’s gaming line-up? The naysayers will type up complaints on X and say she doesn’t know much about the gaming space, but it is a valid complaint.

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I say this because I’m excited, as a fan, for Project Magnus. I’m actually considering buying it, because it will feature Steam as an application and that is one heck of a unique selling point. But aside from Fable which does look quaint, what else does Xbox have to even consider selling this supposed £1,000 console? That’s not exactly affordable for many consumers.

I guess we’ll have to wait and see, with many unknowns on the horizons. Who knows how gaming will shape up at the end of the fiscal year. It could be a successful year or a mixed bag or even a disappointment. It’s off to a fantastic start, but anything can change on a dime in the gaming world. At least we’re finally getting GTA 6. We better get GTA 6. My heart can’t take another delay.
Shahzaib Sadiq

GC: Absolutely nothing official is known about the next gen Xbox yet.

Inbox also-rans
I worry that when Microsoft says that Xbox isn’t built to be only a publisher they’re right. When they realise that’s the only future for it, I think they’re just going to pull the plug rather than just be the next EA.
Purple Ranger

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I’ve been playing around with the Virtual Boy too (via the carboard headset) and I agree it’s a cool and goofy oddity. Even though it looks like an Amiga game I think Red Alarm may be my favourite so far, it’s a really cool shooter. I think the only reason they didn’t call it Star Fox is because it’s all wireframe.
Mike

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The small print
New Inbox updates appear every weekday morning, with special Hot Topic Inboxes at the weekend. Readers’ letters are used on merit and may be edited for length and content.

You can also submit your own 500 to 600-word Reader’s Feature at any time via email or our Submit Stuff page, which if used will be shown in the next available weekend slot.

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York Minster to host books launch honouring St William

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York Minster to host books launch honouring St William

York Minster is marking the 800th anniversary of the canonisation of St William of York with the launch of books exploring Christian healing and sainthood.

The first book, Breaking, not Broken: Ableism and the Church after Constantine, is by the Reverend Canon Tim Goode, Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture at York Minster.

Canon Goode said: “As a residentiary canon at York Minster, I feel a deep empathy with the medieval pilgrims who travelled to St William’s shrine in search of healing.”

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The second title, The St William Window at York Minster: Rediscovering a Miraculous Narrative, is co-authored by Professor Sarah Brown and Professor Christopher Norton of the University of York, and tells the story of one of the largest narratives in medieval stained glass ever created.

Professor Brown said: “The window tells the story of the life and miraculous events associated with St William of York.”

Book launches will take place at the cathedral on March 11 and March 18.

Both events start at 6.30pm.

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The books will be available for purchase at the events and through the York Minster Shop in-store and online.

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Neil McManus warns of Antrim relegation repercussions ahead of vital League ties

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Belfast Live

Antrim are still locked in a relegation battle despite beating Carlow last weekend and face Dublin and Down in their final two games as they bid to secure their status in Division 1B

Neil McManus has pinpointed Antrim’s Division 1B ties with Dublin and Down as ‘some of the biggest games we’ve had’ in years.

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Former Saffrons star McManus isn’t expecting Davy Fitzgerald’s side to beat Dublin at Corrigan Park on Sunday.

But he is anticipating a big performance after finally getting off the mark in the group by beating Carlow last weekend.

Antrim are still locked in a relegation battle but if they can beat Down in the final round, having already overcome Carlow, that might be enough to avoid dropping to Division 2.

“I don’t think there’s anything more important at the minute for Antrim GAA than Antrim to stay up,” said McManus. “It’s a big task, obviously, given that we have Dublin at home and then Down away.

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“The Down game is especially massive and results could still be very unkind. You could end up with two wins in the League and still find yourself going down on score difference if other results were to go in an unfortunate way.

“All you can do is perform really well in Corrigan this weekend and try to bring that form on the road with you to Down in the last game.

“So there could be nothing more important than that. Staying in Division 1B is just a sacrosanct for Antrim’s senior hurling team because if we were to be relegated, in terms of trying to get players into the panel, driving the standards, well, it becomes a less attractive option immediately.

“So it’s huge that we stay in Division 1B, massive. These few games are some of the biggest games we’ve had for a long time.”

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McManus’ life story and Antrim career will be the subject of a Laochra Gael episode on TG4 this evening (9.30pm).

How Fitzgerald would like to have a player like the Cushendall man in his attack right now.

McManus, who retired after the 2023 season, recalled playing in a powerful attack that contained Conor McCann and Niall McKenna.

Now, he noted, they’re working off a smaller and lighter set of forwards, whom he reckons are more skilful and suited to the summer.

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“I don’t think we’ll see the best of this Antrim team until we get into the Joe McDonagh, when we’re on the drier sod,” he said.

“You think of the pace of the likes of Keelan Molloy, Seaan Elliot, James McNaughton, Conal Cunning, Conor Johnston, they can destroy you with the sort of pace we didn’t have.

“So Davy has had to play a little bit differently; dropping deeper, trying to run the ball out and mistakes cost you dearly when you’re playing that way.”

Antrim felt they should have beaten Wexford in Round 1 while nobody expected them to beat Clare in Round 2.

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It was the heavy defeat to freshly promoted Kildare earlier this month that really frustrated supporters.

“I’ll say this, it doesn’t matter what tactics you play, whenever the level of intensity, aggression and work rate is where it was for that Antrim against Kildare game, we were just a mile off what was expected whenever you pull on an Antrim jersey,” said McManus.

“I’ve heard numerous players essentially state that. They were very clear that this was not going to reoccur in Corrigan Park against Carlow, and it didn’t.”

McManus was Antrim’s top scorer back in 2010 when they beat an Anthony Daly managed Dublin at Croke Park in the Championship.

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It’s a level McManus believes the Saffrons can aspire to again, even if Dublin did go on to win Leinster and National League titles, as well as qualify for an All-Ireland semi-final in 2025.

“We drew with Dublin in the Leinster championship three years ago,” noted McManus. “That’s not a long time ago. I don’t think Davy has that same level of depth available to him at the minute and I think Dublin have progressed as well in those three seasons.

“But as a county, to aspire to be at the level that Dublin are at, that is not an unrealistic aim in any way, shape or form.”

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Infantino has ‘complete confidence’ in Mexico to host World Cup games

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Infantino has 'complete confidence' in Mexico to host World Cup games

MEXICO CITY (AP) — The violence that erupted in Mexico after the death of a powerful drug lord has left many questioning whether the country will be able to co-host the World Cup in just over three months.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino thinks it can.

“Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days, but I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities, and we are convinced that everything will go as smoothly as possible,” Infantino said late Tuesday in a press conference in Colombia.

“Mexico is a great country, like in every country in the world, things happen; we don’t live on the moon or another planet,” Infantino added. “That’s why we have governments, police, and authorities who will ensure order and security.”

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The Mexican army killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, “El Mencho,” who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, on Sunday, sparking several days of violence. Cartel members burned cars and blocked roads in nearly a dozen Mexican states and authorities report that at least 70 people have died.

Four high-level soccer matches from the local leagues were postponed last Sunday, including one in the central city of Queretaro, where Mexico is scheduled to play against Iceland late Wednesday in a friendly match.

Thirteen World Cup matches are scheduled to be held in Mexico, including the opening game in Mexico City on June 11 between the co-host and South Africa. Guadalajara, the central hub for the Jalisco cartel, is scheduled to host four.

Colombia is set to play one game in Mexico City and one in Guadalajara.

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“Our first two matches are in Mexico, but we know they will overcome this and move forward,” said Ramón Jesurún, the president of the Colombian Soccer Federation. “I have absolute and total confidence in my geopolitical thinking that this is an issue Mexico will overcome, and overcome very quickly.”

Other nations have expressed more concern. The Portuguese soccer federation said Tuesday that it was closely monitoring developments ahead of a planned friendly against Mexico in March. Jamaica is set to play New Caledonia in Guadalajara on March 26 in an intercontinental playoff semifinal, with the winner advancing to face Congo for a World Cup spot.

“The games are at the end of March, so we still have another month to see what happens; but it is making me very nervous, to be honest,” said Michael Ricketts, the president of the Jamaican Soccer Federation. “We will be listening out for CONCACAF and FIFA to give us instructions (on) whether they are playing the games or whether they are immediately looking for other options.”

Another Mexican city, Monterrey, will host a playoff where Bolivia plays Suriname and the winner faces Iraq for a spot in the tournament.

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On Monday, Sheinbaum said there is “every guarantee” that the World Cup matches in Guadalajara will be played as planned and added that there was “no risk.”

“We are in regular contact with the presidency and the authorities in Mexico and we are monitoring the situation,” Infantino said. “The World Cup is going to be an incredible celebration”.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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‘It’s tense here’: Jerusalem braces for prospect of war in the Middle East | World News

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A drone view of Jerusalem. Pic: Reuters

In the Old City of Jerusalem, Mohammed Liftawi is sitting on his chair and waiting for something to happen.

He runs two shops, packed with clothes, bedding, jewellery, souvenirs and ornaments, and he hasn’t sold anything for days.

The tourists who should be thronging these streets aren’t here.

Image:
Mohammed Liftawi (R), who runs two shops, believes another war is imminent

We are only a short walk from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most important sights in the Christian world, and Jaffa Gate, one of the main entrances to the city’s historic warren of sites and shops.

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But it’s quiet. Worryingly quiet.

‘I think there will be another war’

“Jerusalem is very empty,” he says, waving an arm at the quiet street. “We have no tourists, we have nothing. They have fled because of the war.”

Having survived the COVID lockdown, his business is now having to cope with another slowdown. And now Mohammed fears another shock.

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Does he think there will be another war, I ask. “To be honest, from what I hear, yes I think so. I think there will be another war. And nobody likes war.”

That may be true, but there are certainly those who are more open-minded to war than others.

The Old City of Jerusalem
Image:
The Old City of Jerusalem

‘Take off the head’

At Jaffa Gate, we bump into Moshe Cohen, 23, who’s actually quite keen on military action against Iran starting as soon as possible.

“I hope it starts in a few days,” he tells me, smiling.

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I ask why. “Because they give all the money to Gaza, to Hamas. Everything comes from them. It’s a lot of money. So you have to take off the head and make the world a better place.”

Moshe Cohen supports military action against Iran
Image:
Moshe Cohen supports military action against Iran

So what if Americans were to decide not to attack Iran – should Israel go alone? “Yes we should. If they [the Americans] don’t want to, then we’ll have to go first.”

Alongside him, his friend, Bezalel, nods in agreement. They have no doubt at all that an attack on Iran has to happen.

Read more from Sky News:
Cuban forces kill four on US-registered boat
Inside Mexican drug lord’s final hideout

A drone view of Jerusalem. Pic: Reuters
Image:
A drone view of Jerusalem. Pic: Reuters

By contrast, Khalil Al-daqaq freely admits he doesn’t know what’s round the corner.

His shop, a short stumble from the Holy Church, has been run by his family for decades. He first worked here as a child – he’s now 67. Friendly, welcoming and happy to chat.

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‘Some people are really scared’

“Trade is bad, but we are surviving,” he tells me. “It could be worse. I’m a very optimistic person. In this country, you have to be.

“It’s tense here. Unexpectedly. We don’t know what’s going to happen in the coming days. Or the next hour. Some people are really scared, but you know – what will happen, will happen.

“But people will always want to come here. When it is calm and peaceful, they will return. It’s a holy place for everyone. What we are missing over here are logical, sensible guys. For the leaders… we’re just numbers to them.”

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Khalil Al-daqaq says he is uncertain about what will happen
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Khalil Al-daqaq says he is uncertain about what will happen

And that sense of fatalism is a line you hear regularly – a feeling that it’s not worth worrying about the future because it will happen soon enough.

We bump into Yaakov Simcha, a 21-year-old who has come here from New Jersey to study the Torah, Judaism’s most important text.

So what, I ask, is going to happen?

“I have no idea. I’m not nervous or anything. I believe in God, and I believe that whatever he wants to happen is going to happen. And so, you know, I think his plan is going to work.”

He smiles at me. “Whatever happens, happens. It’s his plan. I’m just going to sit back and continue my studies.”

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Fire crews race to street near Manchester city centre after flat blaze

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Manchester Evening News

A large emergency response was pictured at the scene

Fire crews raced to a street near Manchester city centre after a fire erupted at a flat. At least six fire engines were called to the scene on Middlewood Street, in Salford, at around 7.40pm.

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It followed reports of a blaze that had broken out at a nearby apartment. The road remained open however fire crews lined the road and remained in attendance for around 45 minutes.

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said specialist equipment was used after the flat had become filled with smoke ‘due to a pan that had been left unattended’. No injuries were reported.

Click here to prioritise Manchester news in Google from the MEN

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Shortly after 7.40pm on Wednesday 25 February, fire engines from across Greater Manchester, including the turntable ladder from Manchester Central, were called to reports of a flat fire on Middlewood Street, Salford.

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“Crews arrived quickly and used specialist equipment to clear smoke from a flat that was caused by a pan that had been left unattended.

“Firefighters checked neighbouring flats and made the area safe before departing after approximately 45 minutes at the scene.”

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Americast – Trump’s big, long, State of the Union speech

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Americast - Has Jeff Bezos brought down the Washington Post?

Available for over a year

The Americast team assembles for a late evening/early morning special as President Trump delivers the longest State of the Union address ever. On the agenda was a full-throated defence of the administration’s record, hailing a “turnaround for the ages,” whilst playing down the Supreme Court’s ruling against his signature tariff policy (with the judges themselves in the crowd).

Despite the speech lasting nearly two hours, there was little to suggest a change of course from Trump’s favourite taking points. He focused on the economy, immigration, the Democrats…. And the US men’s olympic hockey team.

But with growing voter dissatisfaction souring the polls, will Trump’s sales pitch be enough to counter sliding approval ratings and convince voters to stick with him for November’s midterm election?

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HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Sarah Smith, North America Editor
• Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

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• Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
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• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #Americast

This episode was made by Rufus Gray, Grace Reeve and Kris Jalowiecki. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

If you want to be notified every time we publish a new episode, please subscribe to us on BBC Sounds by hitting the subscribe button on the app.

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You can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say “Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.

US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155

Americast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Americast also makes lots of other podcasts, including Newscast. If you enjoy Americast (and if you’re reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.

Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p05299nl
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Luis Enrique reacts to PSG’s potential Chelsea tie in Champions League draw | Football

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Luis Enrique reacts to PSG's potential Chelsea tie in Champions League draw | Football
Luis Enrique says Chelsea and Barcelona are ‘two incredible teams’ (Movistar)

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique insists Chelsea are an ‘incredible’ team ahead of their potential Champions League last-16 tie.

The Champions League holders drew 2-2 with Monaco in the second leg of their play-off tie on Wednesday night to progress 5-4 on aggregate.

PSG will now play either Chelsea or Barcelona in the last-16 stage, with the draw due to take place at 11am on Friday.

When asked about the prospect of PSG playing either his former club Barcelona or Chelsea in the Champions League knockout phase, Luis Enrique told Movistar: ‘Neither will be easy.

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‘Since it doesn’t depend on me, I’ll adapt to whatever comes. They are two incredible teams.

Paris Saint-Germain's players celebrate their victory at the end of the UEFA Champions League play-off second leg football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and AS Monaco at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on February 25, 2026. (Photo by Thomas SAMSON / AFP via Getty Images)
PSG will play either Barcelona or Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 (AFP via Getty)

‘Barca is very special to me and is already becoming a classic for me. Like Manchester City and Real Madrid. Barcelona is a unique city and the club is special.

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‘And if we get Chelsea, we’ll have a few things to work on.’

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Luis Enrique also claimed PSG’s tough Champions League league phase has meant that his players are already acclimatised to high-pressure fixtures in Europe.

‘We deserved this qualification but it was difficult because for me the result was complicated, it was a tricky match,’ Luis Enrique said.

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‘There are moments when you lose precision and it’s difficult to recover the level. We have to be happy with what we did, with having overcome this difficult moment.

Who can the Premier League teams play in the Champions League last-16?

Arsenal will play either Bayer Leverkusen or Atalanta

Chelsea will play either Newcastle United or PSG

Liverpool will play either Atletico Madrid or Galatasaray

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MONACO, MONACO - AUGUST 27: The UEFA Champions League trophy is seen on the stage ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase Draw at Grimaldi Forum on August 27, 2025 in Monaco, Monaco. (Photo by Claudio Lavenia - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
The Champions League draw takes place on Friday (UEFA via Getty)

Man City will play either Bodo/Glimt or Real Madrid

Tottenham will play either Atletico Madrid or Galatasaray

Newcastle United will play either Chelsea or Barcelona

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‘What I can say is that if there’s one team in the Champions League that played against the toughest group, it’s us. We’re used to playing against any team.

‘Of course, we want to improve, but we faced a very high-level opponent. Chelsea or Barca would be tough, but if there’s one team that’s ready, it’s us.

‘We have to keep doing the same thing, we’re ready to play any team, in any competition.

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‘It’s been a unique season, we’ve had a lot of injured players. That’s not an excuse, but it’s important to have the whole squad available. There are three months of competition left, and we have the same mentality to go out and win.’

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Review: Operation Mincemeat at Lowry is outstanding show

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Review: Operation Mincemeat at Lowry is outstanding show

Yes, Operation Mincemeat really is that good. What started out as a workshop production in Salford has returned home at the start of its first UK tour having had massive, award-winning success in both the West End and on Broadway.

Unique is such an over-used word but it’s a perfect description for this quirky, rewarding and slightly bonkers show which is made all the more remarkable as it’s based on the most unlikely true story.

Operation Mincemeat left to right Charlotte Hanna-Williams, Jamie-Rose Monk, Seán Carey, Holly Sumpton and Christian Andrews (Picture: Matt Crockett)

In 1943, M15 hatched a plan to fool the German war machine. Wanting to recapture Sicily they convinced the Germans to move the majority of the 90,000 troops based there by planting fake documents hinting that Greece and Sardinia instead.

They used the body of a homeless man who had died in London, created a totally false identity for him and effectively dumped the body at sea complete with top secret documents about the non existent invasion for the Germans to find.

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Not exactly the obvious starting point for a comedy musical.

But it all works beautifully. A cast of five bring such energy, precision and enthusiasm to the production, you are immediately caught up in this madcap world.

Christian Andrews as Hester Leggatt (Picture: Matt Crockett)

The story revolves around five key personnel involved in Operation Mincemeat – Ewen Montagu, the driven M15 officer who pushes ahead with the seemingly absurd plan; Charles Cholmondley, the boffin who dreamed up the idea; Johnny Bevan, the head of the unit, Hester Leggatt a senior secretary and Jean Leslie, a young clerk.

Read also: ‘You can never relax’ say stars of Operation Mincemeat

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A supporting cast of eccentric characters including an extremely sweaty Spanish agent, Cockney urchins, dancing Nazis and a deranged coroner are all played by the fabulous five.

Charlotte Hanna-Williams as Jean Leslie (Picture: Matt Crockett)

Costume changes are seemingly instant, actors at times switch from one character to another almost in mid sentence. At times it’s breathtaking.

In the wrong hands it would be total chaos but the precision is astonishing. Every dance move, every facial expression, every nuance is absolutely spot on. It’s a masterclass in team work on stage.

Sean Carey as Charles Cholmondeley (Picture: Matt Crockett)

It would be hard enough to pull this off without having made it a musical but that’s part of the genius of the show.

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Think Six meets Monty Python, you’ll learn so much but you’ll be laughing while you do.

Gender stereotypes and class are routinely challenged. The cast in their dark trousers and white shirts use accessories to denote different characters.

Holly Sumpton as Ewen Montagu in Operation Mincemeat (Picture: Matt Crockett)

Holly Sumpton is Ewen Montagu the slightly appalling M15 agent with an arrogance borne out of his public school education. She’s so good bringing some humanity to a character who could be seen as totally obnoxious.

Sean Carey as Charles Cholmondeley is equally impressive as the bookish, nerdy scientist who finds himself out of his depth among the egos in M15.

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Charlotte Hanna-Williams and Jamie-Rose Monk as Jean and Jonny Bevan are both outstanding in this runaway express train of a show.

But it’s Christian Andrews as Hester Leggatt who steals the show as the efficient, prim and proper office manager. His song Dear Bill is so poignant, so moving you’ll find you have something in your eye by the end of it.

The staging is equally impressive. Clever use of lighting transforms a basement office into a Nazi rally complete with an RnB soundtrack. Secret doors and movable furniture keeps things moving at an astonishing pace.

There are jokes of every kind from the most obvious slapstick to some very clever literary and historical references. The songs are also so clever and full of rich wordplay. The harmonies are one of the surprise highlights of a show full of surprises – is there nothing this cast can’t do and do brilliantly?

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Jamie-Rose Monk as Johnny Bevan (Picture: Matt Crockett)

For all it’s energy, irreverence and constant assault on the senses, Operation Mincemeat manages to strike the correct balance in respecting the history behind the show.

We have to remember that the body of a homeless man was used in the ruse. M15 deemed it unnecessary to find out who he was or anything about his family and it was not until 1996 when his identity was discovered.

The show respects everyone involved in a covert operation which saved many lives.

But it also serves up one of the most enjoyable nights at the theatre you’re likely to experience this or any other year.

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Operation Mincemeat is at the Lowry, Salford, until February 28

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Six million Brits with savings in bank accounts issued warning

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Daily Mirror

Savers in the UK have been warned they should act soon

Over six million current accounts holding five-figure balances are earning nothing in interest, with hundreds of thousands containing more than £100,000, putting savers at risk of losing money in real terms.

More than 6.5 million current accounts with balances exceeding £10,000 are generating zero interest, according to analysis by savings app Spring. The figures indicate £230 billion is languishing in accounts offering no return rate – despite higher savings rates being readily accessible. The data reveals 340,000 accounts hold over £100,000 without earning a penny in interest, whilst the average balance among zero-interest accounts with more than £10,000 stands at £35,428.

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In total, £324.8 billion is currently sitting in current accounts paying no interest, and an additional £71.3 billion is held in savings accounts earning 1 per cent or less, leaving millions of savers at risk of watching the real value of their money diminish through inflation, reports the Daily Record.

Of 86.3 million current accounts in credit as of November 2025, 75.5 million (87 per cent) paid nothing on balances The average balance across all non-interest-paying accounts was £4,300.

Low-interest savings accounts.

An additional £71.3 billion is sitting in 22.4 million adult savings accounts earning 1 per cent interest or less – significantly below the top easy-access rates currently available on the market.

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In real terms, with inflation continuing to erode spending power, money held in accounts paying little or nothing is effectively diminishing. Spring’s study of 2,000 adults revealed a substantial number of UK savers are not optimising their returns, with many leaving their funds in low-interest accounts because of habit, apprehension and bewilderment.

The research demonstrates that more than a third of Brits (36%) maintain their savings with an account offered by their primary current account provider, while a fifth of participants (21%) confessed to keeping their savings in their current account. Just a quarter (27%) have chosen to deposit their savings with a different provider.

How to track down a lost pension

1. Gather old job details

  • Find the name of your previous employer or pension provider.

2. Use the Pension Tracing Service

  • Contact the government’s free Pension Tracing Service to get the provider’s contact details.

3. Contact the pension scheme directly

  • Ask whether you have a pension, how much is in it and what your options are.

4. Update your contact details

  • Make sure the provider has your current address and email.

5. Consider consolidating

  • Bringing small pots together can make pensions easier to manage – but check for exit fees or valuable guarantees first.

Discussing the findings, Spring Head of Money Derek Sprawling said: “It’s staggering that over six and a half million current accounts hold over £10,000 and are earning absolutely nothing, with some people leaving six-figure sums languishing in accounts that erodes the real value of their money.

“This isn’t about people being careless as our research shows many are stuck in old habits or feel overwhelmed by the choices available. But in a higher-rate environment, doing nothing can be incredibly costly.

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“Even small changes, like moving surplus cash into a competitive savings account, could make a meaningful difference to people’s finances.”

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Manchester United legend warns Michael Carrick he faces ‘conundrum’ this weekend | Football

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Manchester United legend warns Michael Carrick he faces 'conundrum' this weekend | Football
Michael Carrick has a big choice to make in his next team selection Getty Images)

Things have gone very well for Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager so far, but he faces a ‘conundrum’ this weekend, believes Red Devils legend Steve Bruce.

Carrick won the first four games of his spell as interim boss, before being held by West Ham in east London.

Manchester United got back on the horse on Monday night, winning at Everton to continue Carrick’s unbeaten run, which has seen them climb up to fourth in the Premier League table.

The manager has Benjamin Sesko to thank for three of the results he has picked up, with the Slovenian striker scoring late winners against Fulham and Everton and an equaliser against the Hammers.

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All those goals came when he rose from the substitutes’ bench and calls are growing for the 22-year-old to start on Sunday at home against Crystal Palace.

Bryan Mbeumo has been leading the line and playing well, but without the goals Sesko has been scoring of late.

Bruce feels Carrick now has a conundrum on whether to reward Sesko with a place in the starting XI, or stick to the formula that has been working very nicely in recent weeks.

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Everton v Manchester United - Premier League
Benjamin Sesko has been in impressive form off the bench (Picture: Getty Images)

‘To be fair, I don’t think he had a kick apart from score the goal,’ Bruce said on talkSPORT. ‘But there’s that conundrum for Michael now, who was saying, how can I get him in the team? Do I leave him in the team? Do I start him?

‘Big decision, but you wouldn’t want to alter anything at the moment. If he keeps coming on and he’s fresh and people are tired, then he’s got the ability to score and he has done a great finish, I have to say, a great finish.’

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Sesko would clearly love the opportunity to start more games, but insists he is relaxed about the situation and will just look to make the most of however many minutes he is given.

‘We are talking of course, but (Carrick) believes in me,’ he said. ‘Everyone believes in me, and they are getting me ready to start as soon as possible.

Manchester United v Fulham - Premier League
Carrick has been full of praise for Sesko’s work ethic (Picture: Getty Images)

‘It’s more about me showing up when it’s important, no matter how many minutes I get. I’m focused on delivering and trying to help the team secure the wins.

‘I’m getting settled in the league from game to game. Again, I’m not even thinking about “I have to start, I have to start”. Whenever the coach decides to put (me) on, I’m going to be there. If I get five minutes, I’m going to use them. It’s just about trying to enjoy and delivering for the team.’

Carrick would not be drawn on his team selection after the 1-0 win at Everton, but did praise Sesko’s well-taken goal.

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‘It was a great finish. It was a ruthless finish,’ he said. ‘I liked the way he put it away with real confidence. It was great play from [Matheus] Cunha and [Bryan] Mbeumo to set it up and we are dangerous on the break. I am delighted for Ben to come on and make a difference.’

Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal - Premier League
Gary Neville feels Sesko’s confidence could be crushed if he doesn’t start on Sunday (Picture: Getty Images)

Another Red Devils legend, Gary Neville, feels Carrick will hand Sesko a start against the Eagles at Old Trafford on Sunday and the striker deserves that opportunity.

‘I liked his celebration because that was an aggression I’d like to see from him,’ Neville said of Sesko’s goal against the Toffees.

‘He’s 6ft4in, he should be beating centre-backs up. When you saw him earlier on in the season he looked a little bit timid, a little bit upright, and just now he’s just started to have a little bit more power about him and he’s quite quick when he actually gets going, you see him sort of make his moves forward.

‘But that celebration, I thought, was a message to everybody – mainly those Manchester United fans over in the corner who are going wild, but that was a message saying: “Get me in this damn team, now. This is my start, I start next time.”

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‘He looks like he’s growing in his game and in his body and he looks like he’s got more power in his performance. His confidence is high. I think now on Sunday, I think Michael Carrick starts him.’

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