The terror suspect known as the 'man in the hat' denied there was a plot to attack the UK, claiming it was too well protected compared to France, a court heard.

Mohammed Abrini, who is suspected of being involved in terror attacks in Paris and Brussels, visited the UK in July last year allegedly to collect cash for terrorism.

He is said to have spent a week here, visiting the Old Trafford football ground, home of Manchester United, as well as casinos and shopping centres in Birmingham and Manchester.

But he claimed he only visited casinos as he was a fan of poker and Russian roulette, jurors heard.