Chelsea: League Position 3rd,
League Form: LWWWL
Andre Villas-Boas’ team were once quietly drifting behind Manchester City and United in the title race, going about their business without the press that followed the two big rivals. Then, on Sunday, not to be overshadowed, they set about advertising the excitement London can offer. Two red cards and one goal conceded did not stop them being the better side at Loftus Road as the nine men of Chelsea outplayed the 11 of QPR.
In result of that game both Didier Drogba and Jose Bosingwa will be suspended. In the defence they now look a little bare, with the erratic David Luiz a liability in that game, and John Terry picking up some more unwanted media attention over alleged racist insults. Ivanovic will most likely play right back, and Cole left back, but who pairs up in the middle is less than certain.
However, with one striker banned, another returns from suspension as Fernando Torres finishes his three match ban. Four goals in all competitions puts him at double the goals of Drogba and Anelka combined, and the Spaniard should find his way back into the team. Drogba usually terrifies Arsenal, but the new Chelsea are lead Torres, and the new Chelsea need to win home games against Arsenal.
Arsenal
Are Arsenal on the road to recovery? If they are, then it’s down to one man. Not manager Arsene Wenger, but Dutch forward Robin Van Persie. He does not stop scoring. Seven league goals this season (nine in all competitions) only tells so much of the story. A tight game against Stoke last weekend was meandering towards a draw until the rested Holland international came off the bench, scored two goals and the Gunners won 3-1.
Yet since the embarrassing 8-2 defeat to Manchester United in August they have faced only one opponent they can use as a barometer of performance. And they lost. The North London derby earlier this month showed Tottenham to be ahead of their rivals, and now Arsenal have come into form they run into Chelsea. Arsenal have won none of their last eight away games, and Stamford Bridge is not usually the place you would look for away form.
Match Prediction: DRAW
Chelsea come into this game having taken 31 points from the last 33 available at Stamford Bridge, but, unlike Chelsea teams of recent years they are looking loose in defence. One clean sheet in their last eight home games is not the form Chelsea dynasties are built on, and not the side that have stifled, even bullied, Arsenal in the past.
Considering the disarray at Arsenal this season, it is interesting to note that victory here for the Gunners leaves them only three points behind Chelsea. Of course, that is easier written down than actually going to Stamford Bridge and taking three points.
Thomas Vermaelen’s possible return certainly improves their chances, as does the absence of Didier Drogba. The suspended Ivorian has scored 13 goals in 14 appearances against Arsenal in all competitions. The Gunners’ record against Chelsea with him playing is W1 D3 L10, yet without him in the Chelsea side is it W2 D1 L0. Can Torres step up?
Suddenly, it is both sides who look leaky in defence, have attacking talent and will look to pass it around in midfield. The form of both is very similar, Chelsea are now leaving gaps (last season only 47% of their games were over 2.5 goals, this season 78%) and do not have the physicality that once scared Arsenal, and the men from North London have Robin Van Persie. This game is suddenly level.
Highlighted bets:
Over/Under: Over 2.5 Goals – 1.72 188 Bet
First Goalscorer: Robin Van Persie – 8.5 Victor Chandler
Correct Score: 2-2 – 17.00 Boyle Sports,
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West Brom take on Liverpool on Saturday evening in a clash of two sides in good recent form. The Baggies actually won this tie last season thanks to two goals from winger Chris Brunt, so can Roy Hodgson’s side come out on top again?
West Brom
West Brom have recovered from a slow start to the season recently and some good results has seen them move up to 12th in the table. They are in fact unbeaten in their last 4 games with 2 draws being followed by 2 wins, however, the 2-1 win at Villa last time out was definitely the most impressive. Shane Long suffered a bad injury in that win over Aston Villa and his absence may mean Albion struggle for goals. Long had been the Baggies top league scorer so far, but they do have Peter Odemwingie, who is more than capable of stepping up. The Nigerian is looking a good bet to open the scoring then, especially with odds of 8.5 available from Paddy Power. Roy Hodgson did manage a win over his old side in this fixture last season, but a repeat of that isn’t looking very likely with the home side priced as long as 4.2 also with Paddy Power.
Liverpool
Liverpool have had a decent start to this season and they currently sit in 6th place in the League and have also progressed well in the Carling Cup. It has been all change under Dalglish over the summer and it finally looks like it is starting to come together. They did suffer an embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Spurs in September, but since then they haven’t lost and have won 4 of their last 6. Luis Suarez is Liverpool’s top scorer this season with 4 league goals and the Uruguayan is in good form after netting 2 in the midweek win over Stoke in the Carling Cup. With this in mind, the striker is looking very good to score at any time with odds of 2.3 coming from Coral. The away side is looking good for the victory and a correct score of 2-1 is showing good value with odds of 9.0 available from Ladbrokes.
Highlighted bets
Peter Odemwingie first goal scorer – 8.5 Paddy Power
WBA WIN – 4.2 Paddy Power
Luis Suarez anytime scorer – 2.3 Coral
1-2 correct score – 9.0 Ladbrokes
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Jumps action returns to our TV screens this weekend as Wetherby prepares to host the Bet365 Charlie Hall Chase, writes Mikey Mumford. Now in its 42nd running, this Grade 2 event will see horses aged five and older negotiate eighteen fences over 3m1f. Eight runners will head to post for a share of the £100,000 pot and last year’s Hennessy Gold Cup winner Diamond Harry currently heads the market. However, he faces strong competition from Paul Webber’s Time For Rupert and previous course and distance winner Nacarat.
Nacarat Previous course and distance winner who finished last season with a tailed off fourth at Punchestown over 3m1f. Prior to that, Tom George’s representative was an impressive winner in the Bowl Chase at Aintree and should be on terms with a repeat effort. Does often need the run after a break and others preferred for win purposes.
Diamond Harry Has won 10 of his 14 career starts including the Hennessey Gold Cup last year where he stayed on gamely near the finish. Prefers soft ground but is very versatile regarding conditions and has won on his reappearance after a break for the last two years. Will easily get this trip and weighted to run another big race.
Poquelin Won on his final run for Paul Nicholls last season holding on bravely over 2m5f at Cheltenham and has proved himself as a solid performer in this sphere. Stepped up in trip for this race though, and reservations whether he will stay 3m but obvious chance if he does.
Weird Al Ended last campaign in disappointing fashion when pulled up in the Cheltenham Gold Cup although he had posted some likeable efforts prior to that. He won over this course and distance on soft ground last February but this represents a huge step up in class and might be best watched this time.
Chicago Grey Tried on a number of testing grounds but done most of his winning on good surfaces including the Challenge Cup at Cheltenham in March over an extended 4m. So should easily get this trip but was beaten last year by Time For Rupert so has work to do to reverse that bare form.
Time For Rupert Looked set to score after being sent off favourite in the RSA Chase at Cheltenham when all his previous form had been franked. Could only finish a distant fifth that day but can be forgiven for that effort having previously notched two decent events prior. Every chance at the weights and should give Diamond Harry most to think about; shortlisted.
Acrai Rua Pulled up in three of his last six and hardly boasts confidence. Even when he did finish last time at Carlisle over 3m he was last of seven runners. Difficult to make a case for and unlikely to trouble some of these.
Chief Dan George Oldest and most exposed horse in the field and struggled last year since springing a huge surprise at 33/1 in a Grade 3 Handicap at Cheltenham. Not in the same class as some of his rivals and unlikely to get involved at this stage of his career.
A great race to kick-start the National Hunt season and Diamond Harry holds all the aces on the back of his Hennessy Gold Cup win last year. Nick Williams’ runner has gone well after a break in the past but might come unstuck here. TIME FOR RUPERT has a good chance at the weights to beat his rival and he can put the disappointment of the RSA Chase behind him here. Nacarat could sneak in to the place for money for each-way punters. [Mikey Mumford]
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Carling Cup action returns to the Emirates stadium for the 151st competitive game at the Arsenal’s multi-million pound stadium, with Bolton Wanderers being the unwelcome visitors in the nations capital.
The Gunners opted to rest Robin van Persie on the weekend, but the Dutch striker was called upon from the bench to help his side get past a valiant Stoke side.
Bolton will be looking to bounce back from their unimpressive 2-0 home loss to Sunderland.
Arsenal
The Gunners are trying to show they’re not a one-man side but this weeks result against Stoke shows otherwise. Van Persie is the 3/1 favorite to score first on Tuesday and considering RVP grabbed two against Bolton in the League in September, it’s hard to look away from him getting at least one goal against Wanderers. The Gunners have a great record against Bolton at home and have put three or more goals past them during their last three fixtures at home to them. Paddy Power has bets starting from 11/1 for final scores that include three Arsenal goals or more.
Bolton
Bolton’s poor form at the Emirates means they line up second best to the Gunners for Tuesday’s fixture. Despite a recent win against Wigan their loss against Sunderland on Saturday leaves them third from bottom in the league and facing a tough struggle this year.
Ivan Klasnic has three goals to his name this season from five starts and he David N’Gog and Kevin Davies are all priced at 9/1, on PaddyPower.com, to be first scorer.
Wanderers are 17/1 and 16/1 to snatch a 1-0 or 2-0 win away respectively.
Highlighted bets
Arsenal 4-0 Win 22/1 SkyBet
Theo Walcott First Scorer 6/1 SkyBet
Kevin Davies First to Score for Bolton 4/1 PaddyPower
Bolton to Lead at Half Time. Arsenal to Win after 90 min 25/1 BlueSquare
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Article by Oliver Wilson
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QPR
QPR have had a fluctuated start to the season. They are currently 3 games without a win, having been held at home to Blackburn last weekend. It seems the reality of the Premier League has set in, with the buzz of Tony Fernandes’ takeover having faded slightly. It is at home they are mainly struggling, with no recorded wins in the league at Loftus Road so far this season. They are still putting in the performances away though, and are definitely no write offs.
PR will be without top striker DJ Campbell as well as long term injuries Rob Hulse and Kieron Dyer. Captain Joey Barton will be hoping to continue to impress on the big stage once more. Back the controversial Barton to score anytime at 8/1 with Bet 365.
Chelsea
Chelsea are aiming to continue their good form. The Blues will be high in confidence after beating Genk 5-0 midweek, as well as winning 3 games in a row in the Premier League. Since the start of the season Andres Villas-Boas’ have been going from strength to strength and their big names are finally starting to put in the performances expected. The team has begun to blend and flourish magnificently.
Captain John Terry, Juan Mata and Didier Drogba will be hoping for recalls to the side, having been rested midweek. Also, Fernando Torres continues his 3 match ban. Daniel Sturridge will be eager to take the place of the £50m Spanish striker, and is 9/2 to score first with Bet 365. So far this season the young English striker has scored 4 goals in 4 Premier League appearances.
Match prediction
With QPR having failed to gain a win at home this season combined with Chelsea’s current form it’s impossible to deny the short priced favourites. Baring recent performances and scores in mind, it would be a smart idea to back Chelsea for a big win. It also looks unlikely for QPR to strike back with key striker DJ Campbell missing.
Other highlighted bets
Half Time/Full Time: Chelsea HT, Chelsea FT evens Ladbrokes
1st Card: QPR 4/5 William Hill
Correct Score: 3-0 Chelsea 8/1 Boyle Sports
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The Manchester derby returns to the Premier League this weekend and it could well be even more fiercely contested than ever. The sides already locked horns in the Community Shield this season, with Man United taking bragging rights in that one, so City will be desperate for a positive result this time. Some are already saying these games could decide the league title, and an away win could put the gap between the two at 5 already.
Man Utd
Man United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool last Saturday has left them trailing in the league to local rivals City and Alex Ferguson will be determined to put that right this weekend. The current champions haven’t quite hit their previous heights recently, but they are still favourites at 2.1 with Ladbrokes to take all 3 points. Wayne Rooney has scored 11 goals already this season, and with his ability to pop up in important games, looks a sure bet at 2.8 with Paddy Power to score at any time during the match. These sides have score an unbelievable combined 52 goals in the league this season, so betting on over 2.5 goals with odds of 2.1 with Bet365, looks another good bet. However, there has not been much between these two sides this season, and so a draw
Man City
Many City scored a last minute winner in the week to keep their Champions League hopes alive, but now they go to their local rivals looking for their first win there since 2008. City are slight underdogs going into the clash but there is some good value in a correct score and away win. A 1-2 correct score in particular is looking good with odds of 13.0 available from Bet365. Roberto Mancini has shown this season he can be attacking and his side have responded with a massive 27 goals in 8 league games. Sergio Aguero has 8 of those goals and the Argentine is looking likely to start the game after stepping off the bench in midweek. With this in mind, the striker is looking very good at 9.0 with William Hill to open the scoring.
Highlighted bets
Sergio Aguero first goal scorer – 9.0 William Hill
Wayne Rooney any time scorer – 2.8 Paddy Power
Over 2.5 goals – 2.1 Bet365
DRAW – 3.5 Skybet
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The final Group 1 event of the flat season takes place on Town Moor this weekend as Doncaster prepares to host its annual Racing Post Trophy flat meeting, writes Mikey Mumford. Strictly open to two-year-olds, this year’s Racing Post Trophy will see a concise field nine runners head to post to do battle over the straight mile. Ballydoyle trainer Aidan O’Brien saddles four runners including the exciting Camelot who was a ready winner in his Leopardstown maiden. Godolphin’s Encke got off the mark at the second time of asking last time and Mahmood Al Zarooni will be hoping he can emulate last year’s winner Casamento.
Camelot Easy winner of a small field Leopardstown maiden in July in his only run to date. Market support is interesting though and he heads the market so connections must think a lot this colt out of Montjeu and Tarfah. The latter a five times winner over a mile so looks to have a good chance on pedigree.
Daddy Long Legs Got off the mark at the first time of asking in a Gowran Park maiden over 7f. Failed to repeat that performance at Doncaster next time but admirably stepped up to a mile to take a Grade 1 event at Newmarket at the end of September. Should give it another good effort and couldn’t rule out.
Encke Maiden winner over a mile at Newmarket last time after a good run in defeat at Doncaster. Should me more to come from him and from the stable that won this race last year with Casamento; hard to leave out of calculations.
Farraaj Never been out of the first two in his four runs to date; the last of those a second placed finish at Newmarket where he had no chance with the winner. But has scooped decent 7f events at both Sandown and Warwick although the worry is he is yet to race over a mile.
Fencing Raced central in his first start at Newmarket and led the group who raced down the middle before running on to take third near finish. Bettered that effort next time on good ground at Newbury when justifying favouritism over 7f. Should also appreciate the slight step up in trip and warrants respect.
Learn Beaten at odds on in his second try over 7f at Galway in July although made amends last time making all to win at another short price. This represents a big step up in company and might be vulnerable to a few speedier two-year-olds.
Talwar Most exposed horse in the line-up and it is difficult to know which horse will turn up. Has a reputation for running a good race then a poor one and that disappointing run came last time over 7f at Newmarket where he failed to make an impression. Must have a chance though if putting best foot forward.
Tibet Another one of Aidan O’Brien’s who is unbeaten after winning his maiden at the first attempt over a mile at Gowran Park. Won by a head that day but was always prominent and stayed on better than his rival in the final furlong; chance if reproducing and building on that effort.
Zip Top Won his maiden first time out but has since struggled probably due to the contrasting conditions he has faced. Found 6f too sharp for him on his penultimate run so a mile might bring about some improvement.
A difficult puzzle to solve with plenty of exiting two-year-olds it is hard to know how much they will come on for their last run. The unbeaten Tibet and Camelot hold excellent chances of maintaining their faultless racing records but a chance is taken on ENCKE who won a maiden last time and represents a stable who won this twelve months ago. [Mikey Mumford]
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Chelsea
Chelsea go into this sure-banker match on a good run of form. Having demolished Swansea, Bolton and Everton in recent weeks, confidence will be high at Stamford Bridge. So far in Group E, Chelsea have managed a win against a strong Bayer Leverkusen team and managed a goalless draw with Valencia. Facing Genk will look appetising for Chelsea’s high scoring hot shots in comparison. The main team news for Chelsea is the availability of Fernando Torres, as his suspension only includes league games. He will surely start, as Drogba played at the weekend, and will therefore be Chelsea’s main offensive weapon. Back Torres to finally hit the form he’s been promising all season and bag a hat trick – 16/1 with William Hill. Andre Villas-Boas has promised to put out a strong line up, and their midfield will surely run riot, with non-stop attack expected. Therefore at an incredible price of 5/6 with Bet365, bet on the total corners of the match to be over 10.
Genk
Genk are struggling as of late, having lost their last two league games and drop to 9th in Belgian Pro League. Last seasons champions are struggling to compete with runaway leaders Anderlecht. Genk’s defence is definitely their weak point, and with a spearhead led by Fernando Torres it is hard to see Genk be able to cope. However, their attack is their strong point, especially through former Rangers winger Thomas Buffel and workhorse striker Jelle Vossen, who struck 20 goals last season. The Belgian International and rumoured Everton transfer target is 13/2 with Sporting Bet to score at anytime.
Match Prediction: Expect Chelsea to dominate this game with ease, as they are far superior on paper and have hit form at the perfect time. A comfortable victory is widely expected, with a potential score line that looks more suited to a Rugby match.
Highlighted bets
Both Teams to Score: No 4/7 Sky Bet
Handicap -3 Chelsea: Chelsea 9/5 Victor Chandler
Correct Score: 5-0 Chelsea 12/1 Blue Sq
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Article by Adam Allcock
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This will be the first meeting of these two sides in their history – both in a similar position domestically as they struggle for consistency and both undefeated against the same opposition in the Champions league. At the moment, Marseille are edging Arsenal at the top of group F – however everything is to play for coming into this fixture – the victor securing the top spot as these two opposition jostle for the number 1 placing. What is certain with this match is it is sure to be an exciting fixture, as neither side looks to surrender their unbeaten Champions League status.
Marseille
Marseille look to this game not only having won both of their previous fixtures – they are also yet to concede this season in the Champions League and adding to that, the hosts have scored four already. Marseille, if victorious against The Gunners, will be able to secure a stronghold on the Group and put five points between themselves and Wednesday’s opposition. It’s plain to see the Frenchmen will be going all-out to claim a home-victory which would essentially book their place and could prove priceless in the hunt for qualification to the latter rounds.
Marseille have performed well in the champions League, especially against British opposition – the white and blues have won seven of their last nine fixtures against UK opposition, most recently beating Chelsea 1-0 in last season’s group stages. Many punters will be backing Marseille to continue their winning trend against Arsenal. Punters will also certainly be looking at Marseille to continue their to-date record of no goals conceded in the Champions League – a competition that, like Arsenal, has been more favourable than the French side’s domestic matches in Ligue 1.
It is the domestic form of Marseille that will have The Gooners fans heading to France with hope of a win – The French side struggling for form when Saturday comes, often failing to apply the cutting-edge that has seen them prosper so far in the Champions League. Marseille will have to defend well and win the midfield battle and will looking to get in front quickly, dictating the play and bring the game to Arsenal. Loic Remy, who has been often scintillating for Marseille and France so far this season, will be the man to watch in this game and is a value bet to score first against the red and whites.
Arsenal
The Gunners have yet to find their feet at the start of this premier League season – as the glory days of unbeaten seasons fades further into the past, its legacy has paved the way for a mixed bag of surprising losses and spectacular wins to seemingly take its place. That said Arsenal are still a serious force to be reckoned with in Europe and should be discredited at a punter’s peril. It has been the Champions League that has provided some solace for the North-Londoners, who are also yet to lose in Europe – winning one and drawing another as they bid to progress beyond the group stages.
Wenger’s men will have been well informed by the Frenchman of Marseille’s capabilities and at the importance of this fixture – a win would see them further cement their group position – in fact, a win will put the Gooners on top. I’m certainly backing Arsenal to come out fighting in a competition which has been a happier hunting ground for the Red and Whites in recent years.
Arsenal remain unbeaten in Group F, having scored 2 and conceded 1 as they head to the Stade Velodrome to face the current group leaders – the first time the two have met in their group and the two who punters will certainly be backing to qualify to the latter stages.
The major statistic that will prick the punter’s ears is Arsenal’s record against French opposition – having never lost away to a French club in their history. The Gunner’s last defeat in France in fact came during the 2006 Champions League Final – however their opposition that evening was Barcelona. Wenger will certainly be going into this game with every intention to keep their record in tact as they look to down another French side in Europe.
Arsenal have put their Spurs misery behind them and now come off the back of a vital league win against Sunderland, which saw Robin Van Persie net two goals in brilliant performance – again proving his quality. I’m certainly backing Van Persie to continue his run on Wednesday and he is a punter’s go-to player for Arsenal goals.
Betting Verdict
In order for Arsenal to win in France they will have to defend well, which has been a problem for the Gunners this season, compounded by the troubling loss to Sagna against arch rivals Spurs. Crucial to a Gunners win is silencing striker Loic Remy who has been a shining light for Marseille and for France this season. Remy has been terrifying defences with his pace and ability this season and he is certainly one for punters to watch at first goalscorer. Marseille will look to utilise their main Champions League outlet so far this season in the form of Andre Ayew who has already bagged two goals in 89 minutes of football for the French side. He is another punters should keep their eye on in this game.
Arsenal have often had trouble when going behind this season and will be looking to get an early lead against Marseille. Robin Van Persie is sure to be in the hunt for goals midweek and will be full of confidence – he is a solid bet to be first goalscorer. Marseille will also have to deal with Arsenal’s strength in midfield with the likes of Mikel Arteta and the pace of Theo Walcott, which is sure to give the opposition limited time on the ball. Marseille will most likely be going into this game as the favourites with the punters, but an Arsenal win could pay out big with the right bet and we all know that Arsenal are the team that can never be written off.
Match Prediction: Marseille to Win 2-1 – 17/2 Sky Bet
Value Bet 1: Loic Remy First Goalscorer – 13/2 Victor Chandler
Value Bet 2: Arsenal to Win – 21/10 Ladbrokes
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Article by Ben Grittiths
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Man City
One point from their opening two Champions League games has shown Manchester City the task that faces teams in Europe and the World’s most competitive club competition. After drawing at home to Napoli, a very convincing 2-0 defeat in Munich against Bayern has left Mancini’s men in desperate need of a result in this forthcoming fixture.
Outside of European football, City are on a high. Top of the league and beating sides with ease, their 4-1 victory on Saturday at home to Aston Villa was with a side shorn of Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, David Silva and Samir Nasri. That kind of squad depth will only help when it comes to midweek competition. Now the big guns, in a team full of quality players, can return rested to secure valuable points.
Villarreal
Villarreal can only be disappointed with their start to the season. After qualifying for the Champions League group stages, Manager Juan Carlos Garrido has seen his side win only one La Liga game so far. Saturday’s away draw against Getafe was their second point on their travels, with disappointing losses against Barcelona (5-0) and Granada (1-0) preceding them.
There is little to smile about in Europe either. Two defeats from the opening two Champions League games makes qualifying for the knockout stages look out of their grasp already. Both of those defeats have been convincing 2-0 losses too, and now a trip to the Etihad Stadium.
There are definitely attacking stars in their line up. Nilmar, Borja Valero and Giuseppi Rossi will keep the City defence on their toes at all times. And Captain Marcos Senna will anchor the midfield with all his years of experience. They have been described as the Arsenal of Spain, with Barcelona too good for that title; short passing will most definitely be on display, as well as an eagerness to go forward.
Match Prediction: MANCHESTER CITY WIN – 1.36 Coral
The form of both these sides makes it hard to look beyond a Manchester City win. Both teams need the victory if they want to qualify from the group, especially after poor starts. However, that poor start for Villarreal transfers to domestic form too, whereas City have looked like title winners in the League this year.
The difference is squad depth. Resting your four best attacking players and winning like City did at the weekend is something not a lot of teams could do. And having seen both Bayern and Napoli beat Villarreal with ease, 2-0 looks a good bet for correct score.
With a little value in mind, it is interesting to note that Yaya Toure has been playing just off the striker recently. If he is given the chance to go forward he accepts it with gratitude and vigour, bursting through midfield towards the opposition box. With David Silva and Samir Nasri likely to keep Senna busy, the space could open up for the Ivorian. 12.00 with Ladbrokes is worth a try.
Highlighted Bets:-
First Goalscorer: Yaya Toure – 12.00 Ladbrokes
Correct Score: 2-0 Manchester City Win – 7.00 William Hill
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Article by Chris Wilkerson
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