Arsenal vs Sunderland Betting Preview

Arsenal: Premier League Position, 15th, Form: LWWWLD

Arsenal will be hoping to get their Premier League season back on track this Sunday, with the international break coming at the perfect time. The past 2 weeks has eased injury problems and possibly regained any confidence lost during the 2-1 defeat to rivals Tottenham. Tomas Rosicky, Laurent Koscielny and Johann Djourou should all have recovered and be available for team selection. The Gunners have been much better at home this season than away, having recorded wins against Bolton and Swansea as well as wins in the Carling Cup and Champions League Group Stages. However, they have made their worst ever start to a Premier League season.

Arguably Arsenal’s three most creative players, Robin Van Persie, Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey are currently playing well, and possess the ability to run riot. Back Aaron Ramsey to score first at 12/1 Ladbrokes or the in form Alex Oxlade Chamberlain to score anytime at 23/10 with Paddy Power.

Arsenal vs Sunderland Betting Betting odds

Sunderland: Premier League Position: 16th, Form: DLWLDL

Sunderland have struggled so far this season, having spent big over the summer which has led Steve Bruce to come under increased pressure from both the fans and the board, so will hoping to keep both off his back with a credible result against a weak Arsenal team. Beating Stoke 4-0 a month ago looked to have kick started their season, but then Sunderland went on to lose 2-1 to recently promoted Norwich and escaped with a 2-2 draw against a below average West Brom.

Nicklas Bendtner is not allowed to play against his parent club, and fellow strikers Frazier Campbell and Conor Wickham are out injured which will probably force Steve Bruce’s hands to play new Korean signing Ji Dong-Won as a lone striker. Playmaker Stephane Sessegnon has been a has been a revelation for the Black Cat’s since signing for them in January, and with a deflated striker force he is well priced at 7/2 to score anytime with Bet 365.

Match Prediction: Arsenal

The price of Arsenal is too good to ignore, as in previous seasons it would have been much lower. They have too good of a team not to bounce back and pile the pressure on Steve Bruce’s boys. It looks to be a long seasons for Sunderland, and I doubt it will improve this weekend. Regardless, I still can’t see Arsenal keeping a clean sheet with how their defence has been performing this season.

Half Time/Full Time: Arsenal HT, Arsenal FT 11/10 Paddy Power.
Handicap -1 Arsenal: Arsenal 6/5 Bet 365
Correct Score: 3-1 Arsenal 11/1 William Hill

Article by Adam Allcock

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Chelsea vs Everton Betting Preview

Chelsea: League Position: 3rd, League Form: WWLWW

Chelsea have began the season quite successfully, and yet the form of both Manchester sides means they have started off quietly too. Overshadowed by both these rivals and the continuing media obsession with Fernando Torres, Chelsea have made tweaks rather than changes. Ramires has taken the role Michael Essien fulfilled before repetitive injuries stalled his career. Frank Lampard has began to operate a touch deeper than before, although that statement seems churlish after his hat trick against Bolton.

With the spotlight up in Manchester, the West Londoners of Stamford Bridge have clicked into gear nicely, smashing five past Bolton and four past Swansea in their past two league appearances. Even the loss at Manchester United saw them create enough chances to feel a tad hard done by.

Manager Andre Villas-Boas promised a slightly different style, and with new boy Juan Mata finding his feet quickly, the little Spaniard has become the icon of that change. His interplay with the forwards, and especially Torres, has brushed away some of the dust of rigid past from them, and whilst they still have that effective if not exciting style in them, there is much more intent and invention in their attacks than once before.

Chelsea vs Everton Betting Betting odds

Everton: League Position: 13th, League Form: WDWLL

Life for The Toffees is little fun at the moment. Back to back defeats against Manchester City and rivals Liverpool were hard to stomach. Not just the results, but the lack of any form or shape to their attacking play. At least in the Merseyside derby they started with a striker on the pitch rather than the muddled together midfield/attack of Cahill and Fellaini that did nothing against City.

They have proved themselves hard to play against, but where are the goals coming from? Louis Saha carries a hell of a weight on his shoulders with Beckford now at Leicester and Stracqualursi and Vellios more than a little unproven. The goals from midfield Tim Cahill brings have gone from a great bonus to an absolute necessity.

Of course, David Moyes does more than most could considering the budgetary restraints at Goodison Park. Loanee Royston Drenthe is exciting, if a little inconsistent, and there are some very good players in the blue of Everton. But without firepower it’s hard to see them causing Chelsea the problems they have before.

Match Prediction: Chelsea Win – 1.36 Coral

It may come as a surprise, but Chelsea have not beaten Everton in the Premier League at home since 2006. However, in those years the Everton team has never been this uninspiring. Grit and determination are valuable assets, but their lack of a killer punch makes them targets. Whereas in years gone by Chelsea strived due to their efficiency and fight, the latter quality Everton could match them on, the quicker passing and exploitation of space this season makes them a more dangerous weapon.

Chelsea come into the game without suspended Fernando Torres, but Didier Drogba seems fit to return, whilst they also have Anelka, Kalou, Sturridge and even Lukaku available up top. What Everton would do for just one of those strikers.

Chelsea’s big wins have come against sides like Bolton and Swansea who will go home and away and look to outplay opponents on the deck. This Everton will not do, if recent evidence is to be followed. As such, even though Chelsea are finishing 86% of games with three or more goals scored by both sides combined, Everton are stubbornly stuttering along with only 33%. Stifle may be the key word of David Moyes’ team talk.

With Chelsea’s attacking line up a likely variation of many, value for the first goal might be with likely starter Juan Mata, who was rested midweek for Spain. With pockets of space his speciality, but Everton out to suffocate in midfield, he will either be forced further forward or deeper into midfield. With the dominance Chelsea expect, gamble the little playmaker will pop up in the box.

Highlighted Bets:

Over/Under: Under 2.5 Goals – 2.25 Victor Chandler
First Goalscorer: Juan Mata – 8.00 Blue Sq
Correct Score: 2-0 Chelsea Win – 7.00 William Hill

Article by Chris Wilkerson

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Newcastle Vs Spurs Betting Preview

Media frenzies surrounded both clubs during the summer months – Newcastle were not long ago dealing with the Joey Barton situation which saw the player head to QPR, whilst Spurs were doing their damndest to keep a grip on Luka Modric, who was set on a move across the capital to Chelsea. You’d have thought both teams would have suffered because of this – instead it seems they have prospered – Newcastle remain undefeated, whilst Tottenham have won four on the bounce.

Both teams will have separate agendas this season; however neither will want to lose on Sunday. Last seasons fixture ended with neither taking the spoils – though it is Newcastle who have come off best during the Premiership years; winning 11 of 19 previous meetings and only losing 4.

Newcastle Vs Spurs Betting Betting odds

Newcastle: Position: 4th, Last 6: WWDDWW

Currently in fourth and one of only four unbeaten teams after the first seven games, Newcastle United fans could consider Sunday’s game as their first real test this season? Certainly Spurs are the toughest opposition Pardew’s men will have faced so far – but on Newcastle’s current form, Tottenham may well meet their match. Newcastle fans have had their fair share of disappointment over the years and not since the salad days of Kevin Keegan and early ‘90s magic have the Magpies had much to smile about – until now that is.

Newcastle are the surprise package this season – after seven games Newcastle have 15 points in the bag, with four wins and three draws. After a torrid transfer window and the major departures of the likes of Kevin Nolan and Club Captain Joey Barton, many expected the Toon to struggle. It goes to show, anything can happen in football.

Pardew has managed to galvanise a team which has only shipped four goals this season adding more fuel to the Newcastle victory fire that is becoming increasingly hard to put out. The defence, under the leadership of Steven Taylor, in the form of his life, has often left Krul with little to do between the sticks. A clean sheet is certainly not out of the question on Sunday with Pardew’s men striving to remain unbeaten.

What is more astonishing however – is Newcastle’s new-found scoring ability – Bagging nine goals this season, the Magpies have found their shooting boots. The Partnership of Demba Ba alongside Leon Best has been surprisingly menacing so far, defying the doubters with 7 of the teams 9 goals between them. Theirs is a partnership that punters should look to pounce on.

Goals and assists are also coming from midfield via the in-form Gutierrez – who slotted home Newcastle’s second against Wolves a fortnight ago. Tiote, having helped the Ivory Coast to undefeated qualification to the African Cup of Nations, is certainly another to watch against Spurs.

Wolves certainly tested Newcastle’s resolve at Molineux, but their resilience was proved under Pardew. Still, Newcastle fans won’t be getting too carried away at the prospect of a season unbeaten – but on current form, the time their streak finally does come to an end may have to wait a little longer. In the meantime, punters can’t get enough of Newcastle.

Spurs

After a somewhat stuttering start to the season, Tottenham Hotspur have found their feet – they travel to Tyneside coming off the back of a north-London derby victory which further exposed the power shift between Spurs and Arsenal. Spurs now currently sit in 6th place – having won four and lost two so far – including a 4-0 win at White Hart Lane against Liverpool, where the Whites showed their cut-throat potential. Harry Redknapp has again shown himself to be as talented as they come – his side’s performances meriting him September’s manager of the month award – fully deserved on Spurs showings this season.

After the Modric saga you could have been forgiven for thinking the boat at Spurs had been well and truly rocked over the summer – as it happens they are looking as strong as ever – and that includes Modric. Tottenham gambled big as they bedded in over the Croatian – a gamble that so far has paid dividends – he is a constant outlet for the forward line and is always a solid bet to bag a goal – more often than not in spectacular fashion.

It’s goals that haven’t been a problem for the Whites after their first six games. New-boy Adebayor has regained his scintillating form of old after having struggled since leaving arch rivals Arsenal. Adebayor has netted three times in four Premier League matches so far and is sure to score more in search of the famed 20-goals a season. I’m certainly tipping Adebayor to continue his streak against Newcastle and he is at good odds to be first goal scorer.

The only issue with Spurs season so far is the defence – in six games they have conceded 10-goals – most notably due to the injuries sustained by stalwarts Dawson and Gallas who provided much of the experience and leadership to the Spurs defence.

Betting verdict

Newcastle and Spurs could both be considered a punter’s best bet – Newcastle are proving increasingly hard to beat at the back. Spurs on the other hand are proving hard to stop going forward. Both teams are two of the form teams so far which should set up an exciting match.

Newcastle have been a go-to team for punters as their unbeaten status edges further into the season – their defence is looking sharp and going forward Ba and Best are building their bond with every game. The flaw in Newcastle’s game will be in the midfield –Modric, Bale and Parker may prove a stern test for Pardew’s men.

Tottenham have the obvious edge in attack – Adebayor and Defoe are always a threat – and with Modric, Van Der Vaart and Bale supporting, the Newcastle defence will have to work hard. The obvious problem with Redknapp’s side is the injury-ravaged back four that has looked shaky at times.

Some would say that this has draw written all over it – but I’m backing Spurs to edge it and halt Newcastle’s unbeaten run which has to end sometime. Spurs may well be too strong in attack for Newcastle and are looking dangerously confident, moreover they are at good odds to win away from home.

Match Prediction: Tottenham to WIN 2-1 – 17/2 Bet365

Value Bet: Adebayor First Goalscorer – 11/2 Boylesports

Article by Ben Griffiths

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Queen Elizabeth II Stakes betting and odds

It’s QIPCO British Champions’ Day on Saturday at Ascot but many race-goers will refer to the meeting which features the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes as Frankel day, writes Mikey Mumford. And rightly so because Sir Henry Cecil’s unbeaten colt has won all of his eight races and looks a banker to end his 2011 campaign on another winning note in this mile event. He’s no working man’s price though at 1/3 across the board so it might be worth looking at the market without the impressive 2,000 Guineas winner. Marco Botti’s German 2,000 Guineas conqueror looks best of the rest after chasing home Frankel in the Greenham and the St.James’ Palace while Immortal Verse goes looking for a hat-trick.

Queen Elizabeth II Stakes tips

Bullet Train Only had one run this campaign over 1m1f in which he was last of seven at Newmarket in April and was left in mid-division in several runs as three-year-old last year. Probably supplemented as a pacemaker for Frankel (should he need one) but makes very limited appeal in this Group 1 company.

Dick Turpin Ran a bit flat for his usually high standards in the Lockinge two lengths behind stablemate Canford Cliffs. But back to winning ways over course and distance last time when looking the likely winner from a long way out. Didn’t beat too much that day but travels well and each-way claims with Richard Hughes aboard.

Poet’s Voice Last year’s winner under Frankie Dettori hasn’t won since but this is normally his time of year and posted a decent effort over a mile at Newmarket latest. Struggled in the Celebration Mile despite being sent off paper favourite but should fare better here and likely to get his good to firm ground; one to follow Frankel home.

Side Glance Largely consistent performer who hasn’t been out of the top three in each of his last nine runs. He has been competing in slightly lesser Group 1 events and was third behind Dick Turpin here in his penultimate run. Obviously has work to do with that rival but is a previous course and distance winner and could get into the minor honours.

Dubawi Gold Nice winner of the Celebration Mile at Goodwood last time (Poet’s Voice finished last of seven) but was never able to challenge in the Hungerford behind eventual winner Excelebration. Will do well to alter that form against better rated rivals; best watched.

Excelebration German 2,000 Guineas winner scooped the Hungerford last time quite easily in the end but has twice been left trailing in behind Frankel. He got within one-and-a-half lengths of Khalid Abdullah’s colt in the St James’ Palace after Frankel looked to have been idling out in front but needs to raise the bar again; could be one for the forecast though.

Frankel Unbeaten colt who had his biggest scare to date in the St James’ Palace when all out and seemingly idling out in front two runs back. But he scored impressively in the Sussex Stakes, an easy five length winner over another top class rival in Canford Cliffs which showed he is better than ever and another faultless run should make him hard to oppose.

Immortal Verse Lightly raced filly who won on her only appearance on British soil over this course and distance in June when landing the Coronation Stakes. Beat a few useful types in that race, however this assignment represents another step up in class and might find it difficult up against the colts; should run her usual sound race nevertheless.

Only one likely winner in FRANKEL to put it bluntly as he is by far and away superior to the rivals he will face. However, the betting without the market leader is interesting and Excelebration who has run well in behind Sir Henry’s colt on a couple of occasions can follow him home. Last year’s winner Poet’s Voice comes good at this time of year and could sneak into that third spot. [Mikey Mumford]

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Doncaster v Leeds Betting Preview

The Championship returns after the international break on Friday with Doncaster taking on Leeds in a Yorkshire derby. Both teams are enjoying good runs after poor starts to the season and will be looking for the win to continue this and get ahead of their rivals playing on Saturday afternoon.

Doncaster vs Leeds Betting odds

Doncaster

Doncaster Rover had a shocking start to the season and were sitting bottom of the league after 7 games with just 1 point to their name. This prompted the sacking of long-term manager Sean O’Driscoll, the arrival of Dean Saunders and Rovers haven’t looked back since. In his 3 games in charge Saunders has won 2 and drawn 1, propelling Doncaster out of the relegation zone. Billy Sharp is continuing his return from injury and the prolific striker is looking a good bet at 2.88 with Stan James to score at any time during the match. Despite the upturn in form, Rovers have struggled for goals this season, with just 6 from their 10 league games. With this in mind then, betting on under 2.5 goals with odds of 2.0 from Skybet could give a good return. Despite beating Leeds in the 2008 League 1 play-off final, Rovers have struggled against their West Yorkshire rivals at home recently, and haven’t won any of their last 3 meetings.

Leeds

Like Doncaster, Leeds also had a poor start to the season and only took 4 points from their first 5 league games. However, their form has also picked up and the Whites are now unbeaten in their last 4 league games, winning 3 and scoring 9 goals. This has left Leeds just 3 points outside the play-offs with a game in hand on their rivals. Despite their upturn in form, Leeds have still conceded 15 goals in their 10 games and have only managed to keep one clean sheet. Ross McCormack has been in blistering form for the Whites this season and is the joint top scorer in the Championship with 8 goals from 9 games. Therefore, the Scotland Striker is great odds at 11.0 with Bet365 to score 2 or more goals during the game. Leeds are slight favourites for the match on Friday and should have too much for a rejuvenated Doncaster, and so betting on a 2-1 away win at 9.0 with William Hill is looking like a good bet.

Highlighted Bets

Billy Sharp anytime scorer – 2.88 Stan James
Under 2.5 goals – 2.0 Skybet
Doncaster WIN – 3.1 William Hill
Ross McCormack to score 2 or more – 11.0 Bet365
2-1 Leeds correct score – 9.0 William Hill

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Article by Sam Markham

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Liverpool vs Man Utd Betting Preview

Liverpool

Liverpool go into this game after two impressive victories against Everton and Wolves, but the Merseyside outfit have shown inconsistency this season too. Disappointing results away to Tottenham and Stoke will tell Kenny Dalgleish that his side still have work to do and his strike force will need to find some sharpness if they are to improve on a very average 10 goals in 7 games. The past five meetings however tell us that Liverpool step up to the challenge when it comes to Manchester United and they have recorded some very impressive victories, such as the 4-1 of two seasons ago. They’ll be hoping that key players Glen Johnson and Daniel Agger return for this big clash against a side that can score goals.

Man Utd

Sir Alex Ferguson knows his side enter this bitter clash with an undefeated start to the league season but perhaps more importantly, knowing his side have taken maximum points against top rivals such as Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea. However, it has to be said that all these games have come at Old Trafford and United haven’t been as comfortable away from home, as shown by the recent 1-1 with Stoke City. Their ability to score many goals (27 in 7 games) means that United cannot be written off and you’d fancy them to get on the score sheet, especially if in-form winger Ashley Young is fit to start following his recent injury. United have good form against the big clubs and always rise to a new challenge, making them a very difficult side to beat.

MANCHESTER UNITED TO WIN – 7/5 William Hill

Liverpool edge the recent head-to-heads when it comes to this fixture but Manchester United are favourites to walk away with all three points this time round. The flying start made by United this season highlights a gap in quality when compared to the slightly inconsistent Liverpool. With Liverpool potentially missing Johnson and Agger, their defence could fall victim to a brilliant United attack that is led by the inform Wayne Rooney and supported by the equally impressive Young and Nani. Also, Liverpool’s average strike-rate this season makes it unlikely that they’ll break United down often enough to repeat the feat of scoring several goals against them as in the past.

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Article by Matt Wood

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Betfred Cesarewitch betting and odds

The Betfred Cesarewitch provides the pick of the action on Future Champions day at Newmarket this weekend, writes Mikey Mumford. Thirty-four runners will head to post to do battle over 2m2f and Nicky Henderson’s Veiled currently shades favouritism in her hat-trick bid. Elsewhere, Seb Sanders and Sir Mark Prescott team up with Tuscan Gold, while Frankie Dettori takes the ride on Never Can Tell.

Betfred Cesarewitch betting tips

Veiled Looking to complete her hat-trick after wins here and at Ascot this year and won at further than this last time out. Eddie Ahern is aboard again and excellent claims should she get good ground. She looks the one to beat.

Keys Quite lightly raced sort who continued his fine three-year-old form into this year and duly picked up a decent Ascot Handicap last time. Has shown he is capable on different conditions although yet to race beyond 2m, there should be no doubts about the trip. The nature of his penultimate Newbury win should put him in the picture.

Kazbow Lost out the last twice in tight-knit finishes but had won gamely the time before at Doncaster when making all over 1m6f. Unraced beyond 2m and while connections seem confident he’ll get the trip not sure this is ideal, danger though if he stays.

Never Can Tell Game winner over 1m7f at Chester last time but had lost out to Colour Vision who he meets again the time before that. Work to do to reverse the form with that rival but a largely consistent performer who could easily outrun his odds but more for place claims than win purposes.

Cosimo De Medici Won the last twice including over course and distance last time in the trial for this race. Has more going for him than some of these and although often slowly away he often does his best work late in the day and each-way claims here.

Tuscan Gold Run only once this year when a one pace third at Goodwood but had been performing well on the all-weather and on turf last year. Lack of racing this campaign would be a slight worry though but stays at least 2m and chances if breaking well from central draw.

Beyond Has won half of his 10 career starts but the majority of those have come in weak races. However, his win in a Sandown event last time proved he has the ability to compete in better races but this company might be too much for him.

Becausewecan Good performer for Mark Johnston and won a decent event at Ffos Las last time when up against younger and improving sorts. Has work to do though on his Ascot effort in June where he finished in mid-division and never going the pace of the leaders but couldn’t be in better heart.

Another fascinating big field handicap which could go one of several ways. Veiled makes most appeal on her latest form and as a previous course winner but she’s taking on the men here. And for that reason, KEYS looks an excellent option; he was most impressive at Newbury two runs back and a similar performance should put him in the mix. Becausewecan and Cosimo De Medici have also been running consistently of late and can reward those each-way punters. [Mikey Mumford]

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Montenegro vs England betting preview

Montenegro

The Montenegrins come into this game knowing they must win here to have any hopes of qualifying. After a 0-0 draw at Wembley in October last year where they suffocated much of England’s play, they must now come out looking to score.

Can Montenegro face a team of England’s quality, with the pressure qualification on them and the need for victory, and come out with a result? The quality of players such as Fiorentina Stevan Jovetic and Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic (Montenegro’s captain) can certainly bring them moments, but a sustained attacking performance is a different matter. Their five goals in six group games does not inspire confidence.

Their recent qualification form is poor too. Whether their current position in the group is justified remains to be seen after a home draw against Bulgaria was followed by defeat away in Wales, the team who currently sit in bottom place.

Montenegro vs England Betting odds

England

The Toffees go into the lunchtime kick off on the back of just 1 defeat in 6 games in all competitions and they put in a good defensive display against Man City during that loss. Although it was a frustrating transfer window again for Everton fans, they still look like a solid mid table side that could mount a push for Europe and will give Liverpool a tough game. Tim Cahill has a great ability of scoring important goals and so the forward is looking like a good bet at 8.0 with Bet365 to open the scoring on the day. Although the Toffees do go into the game slight underdogs at 3.3 with Coral, the tight nature of derby games between these two means that it may not be a bad bet at all. Everton have conceded on average of 1 goal a game this season and scored an average of 1 a game also, therefore betting on a 1-1 draw should give a decent return at 7.0 from Ladbrokes.

Liverpool

England require a point in Montenegro to confirm qualification to Poland/Ukraine 2012, and will expect at least that here. Their last game of the qualifying stages takes them on their travels, where they have been most successful as of late. Three wins from three away matches in these group stages, scoring eight goals and only conceding one, makes 1.75 look a decent price on the Three Lions.

Manager Fabio Capello is expected to pair Manchester United teammates Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney up front together, with Welbeck leading the line. Welbeck has already shown this season that he can bring performances out of Rooney, taking the forward role very similarly to Javier Hernandez, making runs and space that Rooney thrives from.

The midfield is full of options, with prematurely written of Frank Lampard finding his scoring boots for Chelsea last weekend with a hat trick, whilst Scott Parker offer deeper options for shielding the defence.

More should be read from the performance away in Bulgaria than at home to Wales in the context of this match. Capello seems to have drilled his side into a perfect shape for tactics on their travels, and England can carry that on here.

Match Prediction: ENGLAND WIN – 1.75 Stan James

The overriding factor in this game is the quality England possess. With Montenegro looking for a win, an England goal will force them out into attack, and it’s hard to argue against England scoring when you consider their away record and their attacking talent. Welbeck, Young and Rooney have been in terrific form for Manchester United, and that pace on the counter could lead England to glory. The side also showed in Bulgaria that they were comfortable picking teams off, after absorbing early pressure before exploiting the gaps left by their opponents.

That away form is hard to ignore too. Eight goals in three away fixtures suggests they have adapted to the conditions they have met, and thrived. Montenegro themselves have fallen apart in recent group fixtures, with the draw to Bulgaria and defeat against Wales, and are there for the taking.

With all this in mind, the markets could be too weighted towards a tight game. 2.15 is a great price for over 2.5 goals, a value bet with England’s scoring record and Montenegro’s need for a result.

Danny Welbeck is also well priced, will be the real striker in England’s XI and could be value at 8.5 for the first goal.

Match Odds:-

Montenegro – 5.5 Bet 365
Draw – 3.5 Sky Bet
England – 1.75 Stan James

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Tottenham v Arsenal Betting Preview

Tottenham: League Position: 6th, League Form: LLWWW

After playing the Premier League’s top two in their opening two matches, Tottenham have started to show their true colours over recent weeks. The 4-0 victory over Liverpool showcased the best of their high tempo, attacking game, and has restored confidence.

Apart from their return to form Manager Harry Redknapp must be delighted with how his summer acquisitions have settled. ‘Keeper Brad Friedel looks as comfortable as his experience would have lead us to expect, whilst Scott Parker and Emmanuel Adebayor have slotted in and performed from day one. On top of that, Luka Modric has settled back into his game after the on/off transfer saga of the summer.

More than enough incentive is on offer this weekend. There is the chance to open a five point gap on a top four rival, but probably more importantly for the fans, there is the opportunity to further demoralise North London rivals Arsenal after their poor start.

Tottenham v Arsenal Betting odds

Arsenal: League Position: 13th, League Form: LLWLW

Make or break for Arsenal? A defeat here leaves them five points short of Tottenham, and then, if each team takes three points this weekend, a possible six points behind Liverpool, nine behind Chelsea and 12 behind Manchester United and Manchester City. The title would already look to be slipping away from them, whilst they can ill afford to give away such a deficit in the battle for Champions League football.

Victories against Shrewsbury, Bolton and Olympiakos in their last three games has done little to inspire confidence, and came without the Arsenal swagger of previous seasons.

Arsene Wenger’s side have won only four of their last 17 league games, and are winless in seven away league matches. What their frail defence does not need right now is a physical, pacey and vengeful striker waiting to attack them. Enter Adebayor.

However, the victory here would lift the whole club, force them back into form and put them in reach of their rivals, whilst leapfrogging Tottenham. The game should be open, there were eleven goals in the two league fixtures last season, which could lend itself to both sides styles.

Match Prediction: Tottenham Win – 2.2 William Hill

Premier League history has Arsenal as the dominant force in North London football, but the arrival of Harry Redknapp on Spurs has helped swing the pendulum to a more level playing field. In fact, last season Arsenal took only a point from the two league games these sides played. Since Harry Redknapp joined Tottenham, Spurs have won two, drawn three and lost two of the seven meetings in all competitions.

Tottenham’s attacking options are playing with more confidence than Arsenal’s, their midfield looks in perfect balance whilst Arsene’s men miss key components due to injury and the defence, especially centre back pairing of King and Dawson, is far more trusted than Arsenal’s.

The figure of Adebayor will loom over this fixture too. Returning to play against Arsenal for the team he once dominated so many times when in red. Eight Arsenal goals in nine North London derbies, can he perform on this fierce stage again, and become only the second man to score for both of the sides in this derby’s history. The Tottenham alternative could come from Van Der Vaart, how has three goals in two outings in this fixture.

Highlighted bets

Over/Under: Over 2.5 Goals – 1.68 188Bet
First Goalscorer: Emmanuel Adebayor – 6.00 Bet 365
Correct Score: 3-2 Tottenham Win – 26.00 Bet Fred
Both Teams To Score: 1.57 Coral
First to Score for Their Team: Robin Van Persie – 4.33 Bet 365
Anytime Goalscorer Double: Adebayor and Van Persie – 6.5 William Hill

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Everton vs Liverpool Betting Preview

It’s that time of the year again as the first Merseryside derby of the season takes place this Saturday lunchtime at Goodison Park. Everton won this fixture last season and will be hoping for more of the same this year as they head into the clash slight underdogs against their closest rivals. Both sides have had a decent start to the season and a win for either team could do wonders for their league position.

Everton vs Liverpool Betting odds

Everton

The Toffees go into the lunchtime kick off on the back of just 1 defeat in 6 games in all competitions and they put in a good defensive display against Man City during that loss. Although it was a frustrating transfer window again for Everton fans, they still look like a solid mid table side that could mount a push for Europe and will give Liverpool a tough game. Tim Cahill has a great ability of scoring important goals and so the forward is looking like a good bet at 8.0 with Bet365 to open the scoring on the day. Although the Toffees do go into the game slight underdogs at 3.3 with Coral, the tight nature of derby games between these two means that it may not be a bad bet at all. Everton have conceded on average of 1 goal a game this season and scored an average of 1 a game also, therefore betting on a 1-1 draw should give a decent return at 7.0 from Ladbrokes.

Liverpool

Liverpool have made a fairly solid start to the season, winning 3 of their 6 league games, but after the money they spent in the transfer window many expected more. Nevertheless they have some good players who will gel over the season and produce the goods. One of those is Luis Suarez and the Uruguayan has had a good start to the season already, which is why backing him at 2.5 with Paddy Power to score at any time could be a smart bet. Liverpool will be desperate to atone for their defeat here last season and as it will be a tight game, a 2-1 away win is looking good with odds of 11.0 available from Ladbrokes. Steven Gerard could continue his comeback from injury on Saturday and if the England man does then that will surely only boost Liverpool’s chances.

Highlighted bets

1-1 Draw – 7.0 Ladbrokes
Cahill first goal scorer – 8.0 Bet365
Suarez anytime scorer – 2.5 Paddy Power
Under 2.5 goals – 1.73 Stan James
2-1 Liverpool WIN – 11.0 Ladbrokes

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