The English Premier League is starting to look a little crowded at the top of the ladder. Just to add some interest to football betting, Manchester City, who currently lead the race, are starting to look a little vulnerable. City have lost their last two games at home, and both were important games – the first against rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup, and the second against Liverpool in the Carling Cup. After looking strong, they could finish the season with no silverware at all.
Manchester City lead the table on 48 points just three clear of Manchester United and Tottenham. Manchester United (1/6) host Bolton (18/1) this weekend whilst Tottenham (3/10) host Wolverhampton (12/1). Wolves have been a tricky team to beat this season, they seem to keep their best for the top sides. On Monday, Manchester City (2/5) make the tricky trip to Wigan (9/1) – and Wigan have a few prized scalps at home this season.
Chelsea are back in fourth spot on 37 points, a point clear of Arsenal with Liverpool a further two points behind and Newcastle another a point behind them. Chelsea (5/12) host Sunderland (8/1) while Arsenal (5/6) face a real test away to Swansea (9/2). Swansea don’t win too many games, but they do have a good record for holding teams to a draw. Liverpool (4/9) host Stoke (15/2) in what should be a relatively easy game given Stoke’s current record. Meanwhile, Newcastle (4/5) are the side unlucky enough to draw Queens Park Rangers (4/1) the weekend they gain a new manager. New managers often create a spark that see their charges performing well during the first few weeks.
Our tips for the weekend – there’s little value backing the leaders at short odds, however, we feel a wager on the Wigan-Manchester City draw is well worth some thought as the draw between Arsenal and Swansea. We’re also tipping a revitalized QPR to play well – you can back them to win, or take on Newcastle through a betting exchange – 5/4 for a Newcastle loss looks to be good value.
The best bet for the weekend may well be Everton (11/5) to defeat Aston Villa (6/4). This is, as the betting suggests, an open match that could swing either way. Villa at home is no certainty and Everton are playing well on the road. We think the 11/5 for Everton is well worth following.