present simple wit the meaning of future in reported speech

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vivtof

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Hi there,
if the reporting verb is in the past , does present simple always become past simple in reported speech?
e.g will "the London train leaves in 5 minutes" become the stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes? :?: :-|

Thanks,
Vivtof
 

bhaisahab

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Hi there,
if the reporting verb is in the past , does present simple always become past simple in reported speech?
e.g will "the London train leaves in 5 minutes" become the stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes? :?: :-|

Thanks,
Vivtof
I would say '...would leave/would be leaving in 5 minutes".
 

5jj

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The stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes?

I'd be quite happy with your suggestion. Bhaisahab's alternatives are, of course, also fine.
 
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