The New Breed versus The Old Guard - Betting News with Betfred

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It is a mouth-watering clash of the billionaires with big ambitions at Eastlands this weekend as Chelsea and Manchester City clash this Saturday.

Roman Abramovich revolutionised the Premier League when he took over Chelsea and sprayed his millions around to bring quality footballers to the club, which led to Jose Mourinho leading them to the Premier League title.

Now the new boys on the block are City, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan has spent hundreds of millions of pounds in his short term at the helm in the hope of bringing success to Eastlands.

It is a case of the old guard versus the new breed when the two teams meet, and this game is set to be Chelsea's sternest test yet of their ability to defend the Premier League title they won last season.

Carlo Ancelotti's side are 6/5 in the online football betting to head back to the capital with all three points.

The West London side have been in scintillating scoring form this season and have blown away all that came before them in the Premier League, scoring 21 goals in their first five Premier League fixtures of the campaign.
However things could be different on Saturday lunchtime, when they face a City side that did the double over them last season - and many punters may see a City win at 5/2 as an enticing Premier League bet.

Didier Drogba, who has looked very impressive in the opening weeks of the season and is 9/2 with Betfred to open the scoring at Eastlands, claims contrary to public opinion, that Chelsea have not had an "easy start" to their season, but he admits the true test of their title credentials lie in the forthcoming games.

He said: "City will be a good test to see if we can deal with better opposition. After that it is Arsenal - another big one - so it's a crucial period."

Both teams are coming into this game having lost in the Carling Cup in midweek and seen one chance of silverware go begging. However it is the Premier League title that both teams, and their Chairman have their eyes on winning, so it should be an exciting affair when they take to the field.

My Tip of the Weekend:

Chelsea should be too strong for the inconsistent City and I expect them to continue their superb scoring form, so Betfred's 4/1 for the Londoner's to score three goals or more looks like good value. Also Carlos Tevez at 11/2 to score first in the match looks a steal.

Saturday 25th September: Chelsea v Manchester City, kick-off 12.45pm - Live on Sky Sports 2.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Will Stoke Play the Role of Villains? - Betting News with Betfred

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Aston Villa fans will be hoping the classic 'new manager' syndrome kicks in when they face Stoke City in the Premier League on Monday night.

Despite the season being only a few games old, it has been a rollercoaster ride for Villa fans. Firstly Martin O'Neill unexpectedly resigned just five days before the opening day of the season.
Then caretaker boss Kevin MacDonald went from hero after victory on the opening day, to villain following a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of newly promoted Newcastle United, all in the space of a week!

Now former Liverpool manager Gérard Houllier has been 'unofficially' handed the reins at the club.

Although Houllier has been announced through the media as the new Villa boss, and unveiled as the new man at the helm of the Birmingham based club via a press conference this afternoon - it has become apparent that his tenure does not in fact start this Monday night.

As Houllier 'negotiates' his exit from the role as the French Football Federation's (FFF) technical director, he will not be in the dugout for Monday's trip to Stoke in the Premier League, with caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald running the team in his absence.

Villa are currently sitting in the Premier League top four and their powers of recovery were evident in their win over Everton last time out. To get a win against the Blues after being trounced by Newcastle, and then going out of Europe in calamitous style to Rapid Vienna only days earlier, showed the fighting spirit among the team.

Struggling Stoke who have not won a point all season are 13/8 in the Premier League betting to stop the rot on Monday night.

If Villa can show a similar resolve against The Potters, who are always tough to beat at the Britannia Stadium, then the 15/8 on offer for Villa to take all three points could well be seen as a good football bet by many punters.

Many football fans will be wondering what effect Houllier will have on the players at Villa Park. It has been a long while since he was a Premier League manager and his success at Liverpool came a decade ago.

It will be interesting to see how the players perform for the new man and how they feel about him replacing MacDonald, who is clearly highly thought of by the players, and has spent many years at the club.

Houllier said that he was disappointed MacDonald, who took over the reins following O'Neill's shock departure in August, had turned down the chance to work as his assistant. "I am working on naming an assistant manager," the Frenchman continued.
"Joint management doesn't work, but in some capacity as assistant manager he (MacDonald) would have been helpful. He could also have maybe learnt the trade and, who knows, taken over from me. But I understand his decision, he's a nice bloke so I won't hurt him - I told him I'd like him to stay at the club."

Once Houllier is 'officially' installed as Villa's new first-team manager, MacDonald will return to his job as reserve team boss.
Houllier could take charge of the team at Villa Park for the visit of Bolton in the league on the 18th September, or possibly for the midweek Carling Cup clash against Blackburn, or failing that the league trip to Molineux on the 26th September.

Meanwhile Kevin Macdonald will reside in the dugout on Monday night, and will continue to do so until further notice, OR when the contractual issues between Villa and the FFF are finally resolved.

My Tip for Monday night:

This is going to be a very close game and Stoke are notoriously tough at home, so Betfred's 9/4 for the match to end in a draw seems a logical outcome.

Monday 13th September: Stoke City v Aston Villa, kick-off 8pm - Live on Sky Sports

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

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Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has been given possibly the hardest challenge to start his Premier League life with his new club, and he now has to do it without his marquee summer signing.



Joe Cole's sending off in the opening weekend draw with Arsenal means he is now unavailable for Monday's clash with Premier League moneybags Manchester City, with Liverpool priced at 23/10 win the clash with Betfred.



Hodgson's predecessor Rafa Benitez was criticised all the time for tinkering so it was interesting to see how many changes the new man made in the Europa League qualifier with Trabzonspor.



The boss gave a second half run-out to Fernando Torres, who the football odds make 11/2 to score the first goal on Monday, and he looked much fresher than he did during the World Cup, so the Spaniard could be in line for a start at Eastlands.



Daniel Agger and Javier Mascherano are struggling with injuries and if the duo recover then they could face new signings James Milner and Mario Balotelli, who will both be making their Premier League debuts.



It is the first home game for City this season, and given their multi-million pound spending spree during the summer they will want to put on a good show for their fans.



They were disappointing against Spurs in their opening game and know they need a good start to the season if they want to win the Premier League title this season – something which they are 9/1 to do with Betfred compared to Liverpool who are priced at 14/1.



There is no doubting the overall strength of the City squad, something that Hodgson would love to have at Anfield, so the clash at Eastlands looks like it could be a sign of how both sides are likely to do over the coming season.



My Tip for Monday Night:



It's early days and neither team has settled into the season yet. Therefore I expect both teams to cancel each other out at Eastlands, and the game to end in a 1-1 draw, which at 11/2 looks a reasonable bet.



Manchester City v Liverpool - Monday 23rd August, kick-off 8pm, live on Sky Sports.



By Drew Swainston

(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Edgar has Landed!

Oh, what a time to be a Crystal Palace fan!

Just weeks, literally, after the Championship club were on the brink of going out of business, and on the very day it is announced they are 'officially' out of administration, the new owners and management team have pulled the most almighty, humongous rabbit out a seemingly invisible hat!

Days ago fellow championship rivals Cardiff were celebrating their very own coup in the form of Craig Bellamy, without a doubt a terrific footballer, but with a temperament that saw him more or less 'forced' out of the bright lights of Manchester, as he chose the somewhat less salubrious surroundings and the somewhat dimmer lights of his home town, as he joined Cardiff City F.C on loan.

Why Cardiff? Well Bellamy is a Welshman, he comes from Cardiff, has a home in the vicinity, his family are still based in Wales and he wants to play first-team football. He can have ALL that at Cardiff for the same money, instead of collecting splinters while sitting on the bench at City, playing second fiddle to fellow strikers: Tevez, Robinho, Adebayor, Jo, Santa Cruz and Balotelli.

I myself was scratching my head at the beginning of the week as I wondered how on earth a club struggling financially, not dissimilar to the plight that Palace found themselves in, could afford to bring on board such a player and offer him first team football for a 'mere' £45,000 per week (and that is only half of his contracted weekly wage), while those good citizens........er 'samaritans' at Eastlands, the blue side of Greater Manchester have agreed with the 'Bluebirds' to subsidize the outstanding balance of Bellamy's wages, the further £45,000 per week - sheer unadulterated madness!

In my humble opinion this year is promotion to the Premier League or bust for Cardiff City.........the scenario of putting all your eggs in one basket and 'hoping' for the most fruitful outcome. A BIG gamble that can only end one of two ways - glorious success over 46 league games resulting in Premier League football next season, or au revoir to English club football, the League of Wales awaits you!

Now the cynics out there may well point the finger at Palace and justifiably so. I wholly and naturally expect plenty of vigorous finger wagging in the direction of London SE25 over the forthcoming days and possibly weeks, and I fully understand and accept any sort of denigration and vilification regarding the events today.

How much you may well ask are this recently rescued club going to pay a 37 year-old former Dutch international who hasn't kicked a ball in anger for two years, to pull on Palace's red n' blue shirt?
Well you can be sure the new owners (CPFC2010) will have done their maths and that if this arrangement was a non-viable monetary option, the plug would have been pulled immediately. These guys have just saved the club, in no way will they put their money and the clubs security in jeopardy, less than 24 hours after exiting administration.

But in Edgar Davids (pictured right) you have a man and a football player that once graced the game across Europe, from the days of his Ajax debut back in 1992, followed by a glorious career at the likes of footballing giants AC Milan, Juventus, Barcelona, and Inter Milan, as well as a spell at Tottenham, winning numerous club trophies throughout his illustrious playing career, not to mention his 74 international caps for the Netherlands.

Now he is a Crystal Palace player on a 'pay-as-you-play deal', who will provide as much off the pitch as on it!
Crystal Palace have a football academy second only to Arsenal's, and the youngsters at Palace in the shape of Zaha, Cadogan, Clyne, Djilali, Scannell, Holland and Pinney to name but a few can surely only benefit from the arrival of a genuine 'footballing icon' at their Club, whether it be on the training ground, in the dressing room, in the form of advice or even as a shoulder to cry on!

The obvious income Davids will bring to the Club will more than likely come in the form of an initial (and hopefully a prolonged) increase in crowd attendances at Selhurst Park, from shirt sales and possibly even designer glasses. Any income by whatever means can only be of benefit to the Club.

The Club itself will undoubtably receive additional media exposure, possibly resulting in an increase in the number of live TV games shown, and therefore the increased revenue that is generated as a result.

On the otherhand maybe Davids will become an overbearing unwanted media distraction at the club, ruffle a few feathers and put a few noses out of joint amongst the more experienced, senior players already at the club. Maybe Davids will pick up a serious injury, be unable to sustain the level of fitness required, along with the hunger or desire and passion required on match day. A cold, wet Tuesday night fixture away at Deepdale, the Keepmoat or Turf Moor hardly rivals the Stadio Olimpico di Torino or the L'Estadi Camp Nou.

But football fans, even if Davids move to South London doesn't work our for whatever reason, remember he is on a 'pay-as-you-play' deal, an absolutely crucial condition of his contract, bearing in mind the current economic climate.
I believe every single football club in the country would like to have had the 'opportunity' of working with a player of his calibre, whether your club be Birmingham, Blackburn, Barnsley, Brighton or Bury!

Edgar Davids will be at Selhurst Park at tomorrow's game against Ipswich Town to be introduced to the crowd.

'Edgar the Eagle' a Crystal Palace player, 20th August 2010 - What a story, what a coup, what football dreams are made of............. bring it on!

The Physio Room - Injury Update

With the new Premier League season only days away, managers, chairman and owners are busy wheeling and dealing in the transfer market, in an effort to strengthen their squads.

So spare a thought for the English Premier League clubs' physios and medical teams and their 'healing hands.'

Here is why:

The 2009/10 Premier League season finished on the 9th May, the F.A Cup Final took place on the 15th May, and many English Premier League (EPL) players were involved in international friendlies prior to the World Cup, which itself began on the 11th June.

On the 24th May England themselves hosted Mexico at Wembley, on the 30th England played Japan in Austria, and after arriving in South Africa they had another warm-up game before their opening World Cup group fixture against the USA on the 12th June. They played Algeria on the 18th June, Slovenia on the 23rd, before going out of the competition on the 27th to Germany.

The English Premier League is littered with 'foreign players' from all over the world, who participated in the World Cup, yet ply their trade on English shores.
The World Cup lasted a full month for a few of them, culminating in the Final on the 11th July.

On their return the pre-season friendlies were immediately upon them.

Last Sunday saw the traditional season curtain raiser - the 'Community Shield' played at Wembley, which was this year unusually competitive, as Chelsea and Manchester United locked horns in an effort to get a winning and early physcological advantage over their fiercest rivals.

Tonight sees an 'England XI' play Hungary in what can only be best described as an ill advised, badly timed and meaningless international friendly, which will involve the participation of Premier League players just 72 hours before the new season kicks-off!

What remains to be seen is how well the various managers and their coaching staff along with the healing hands of their respective physios can manage their squads, rotate them effectively and nurse their injured players through the early opening season exchanges, whilst being able to juggle and prioritise their fixtures, and in doing so succeed in maximising performances and results.

Many teams will start the season without some key players, already victims of injuries picked up last season, during the World Cup or in pre-season.

Obviously some Premier League teams have the budget to sustain sufficiently large enough squads to nullify this problem as best possible. However with the transfer window still open, they still have the opportunity to shore up any problem areas, with additional players, whether they be through loan deals or permanent moves.

Meanwhile there is a full programme of English Premier League fixtures this weekend, so here is your chance to catch up on which players are definitely out injured, who is doubtful or struggling, and who will be fit to play for their clubs.

Click on the 'link' to find out the latest on your Club's injury worries, and how soon it will be before some of your teams players will be back in action.

Will City Buy the Premier League? - Betting News with Betfred

It's Crunch Time In The Premier League - Betting News with Betfred

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The last weekend of the season looms and the Premier League title is on the line, so at least we all have one exciting last hurrah before contemplating another summer waiting for the domestic football to return - at least there's the 2010 Football World Cup to tide us over.

Obviously all eyes are going to be focused on Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford this Sunday as title rivals Chelsea and Manchester United face Wigan and Stoke respectively.

If Chelsea can beat the Latics then the title is theirs, and the football odds make them massive 1/10 favourites to win the match. Wigan, on the other hand are 25/1 shots to spring a surprise.

A shock slip-up by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge means a United victory over Stoke would see the trophy remain at Old Trafford, but Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard feels Chelsea are going into this vital game with great momentum.

"There is still another game to go but we are in a good position. If you are going to win titles you are going to have these moments," he said.

The England midfielder has been instrumental yet again for Chelsea this season so there would be no surprises if he got on the scoresheet to help win the Premier League title for Chelsea - he can be backed to score first at 3/1 with Betfred.

It is important to note that in the case of a surprise Chelsea defeat, nothing but a United win will suffice, as a draw at Old Trafford will still hand the title to Carlo Ancelotti's side on goal difference.

However, as this game should be a walk in the park for Chelsea the real betting value lies elsewhere this weekend, specifically at Old Traford where Manchester United could buckle under the strain of a long season.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
Although Sir Alex Ferguson's sides are renowned for achieving the impossible, the current crop have looked fragile at times this season, particularly in defence. I think the pressure could get to United, and they are playing a tough no-nonsense Stoke outfit, so Betfred's 13/2 for a draw at Old Trafford looks the value bet of the day.

Chelsea v Wigan - Sunday 9th May, kick-off 4pm, live on Sky Sports 1.
Man Utd v Stoke - Sunday 9th May, kick-off 4pm, live on Sky Sports 3.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Fiery encounter could light up the Emirates - Betting News with Betfred

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Emmanuel Adebayor will enter the proverbial lion's den when he returns to the Emirates in a light blue shirt on Saturday evening.

The Togolese striker left Arsenal to join Manchester City last summer and then further incurred the wrath of Gunners fans as he raked Robin van Persie with his studs and then celebrated in front of the away support during his new side's 4-2 win earlier this season.

Adebayor was given a one match ban for his behaviour in that tie and Kolo Toure, who also swapped life in North London for Manchester, has warned him not to get carried away again if he scores - and the striker is 6/1 to be first goal scorer with Betfred.

Toure, who will be looking to help Ivory Coast upset the World Cup 2010 betting in the summer, said: "He needs to show more intelligence because we all know what he did was not the best reaction - and as a friend I've told him that."

City need a win to ensure they remain in contention for a top four finish, as they are two points behind Spurs with four games to go. This urgency could mean many punters see City to win at 3/1 with Betfred as a decent football bet.

Spurs and City will clash at Eastlands at the beginning of May in a tie which could go some way to deciding which of them qualifies for the Champions League.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
I expect a much closer encounter between City and Arsenal this weekend than their meeting earlier this season at Eastlands, so my tip is under 2.5 goals in the game, which can be backed @ 6/5 with Betfred and looks the value bet - Saturday 24th April, kick-off 5.30pm, live on ESPN.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Liverpool Out For Revenge Over Beach Ball Victors - Betting News with Betfred

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Liverpool will be hoping for their luck to turn when they face Sunderland at Anfield on Sunday, after the previous meeting between the two teams ended in controversy.

Back in October 2009 the Reds went down 1-0 to the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light, after Darren Bent's shot hit a beach ball thrown on to the pitch by a Liverpool fan, causing it to dramatically change direction, before nestling in the back of the net.

With the form Bent has been in recently punters might fancy the 8/1 on offer with Betfred for him to be first goalscorer on Sunday, with or without outside assistance.

The incident caused huge controversy, and ultimately cost Liverpool valuable points. Five months on and with Liverpool's season faltering, they will have to pull out all the stops if they are going to finish at best in fourth place at the end of this seasons Premier League campaign.

They currently lie sixth, four points behind Tottenham who occupy fourth place and two points behind Manchester City in fifth, both of whom have played a game less than The Reds.

Manager Rafa Benitez has called for his big players to step up to the plate in the coming weeks to ensure Liverpool qualify for next season's Champions League.
The football betting odds make the Merseysiders favourites for Sunday's game at 1/3, but their stuttering form could make a draw at 4/1 a good bet.

The Spanish manager will be aware of the threat Sunderland can pose to his side, who could be still reeling from their defeat to Premier League leaders Manchester United last weekend.

"Sometimes when you talk about big names, top-class players, you are expecting something from them when the team is not doing well," said Benitez.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has admitted in recent days that his performances this season have been lacklustre. He told Sky Sports News he has failed to reach the level he expects of himself, which has left him disappointed. He will certainly need to improve if he is to help England to justify their World Cup 2010 odds in South Africa this summer, and he could show signs of improvement here. Gerrard is 9/2 to grab the first goal on Sunday.

My tip Of The Weekend:
I expect a tight game with few goals at Anfield, so Betfred's odds of 7/2 for the game to be all square at half-time and Liverpool to be victorious at full-time is very attractive - Sunday 28th March, kick-off 4pm, live on Sky.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

The Physio Room - Injury Update

With between eight and nine Premier league fixtures remaining of the 2009/10 season, there are only a one or two things that can be said are concrete!

When you take a look at the league table, Pompey are down, but there are two relegation place remaining, and potentially seven clubs in danger of the drop.

At the other end of the table any of the current top three teams: Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal could win the title, and four teams are fighting it out for that 'exclusive' fourth place finish - and a glamorous, income fuelled participation in the Champions League next season.
Let's also not forget the UEFA Europa League 'consolation' prize, that is up for grabs for those sides finishing outside the top four.

That leaves just three or four Premier League teams in mid-table limbo, with little else to play for, other than pride. However the performances on the field of these sides, the likes of Birmingham, Everton, Fulham and Stoke could seriously effect the final outcome of those teams immediately above and below them - so they themselves still have an important part to play as the season reaches its climax.

For example, this weekend Fulham and Stoke play Manchester City and Tottenham respectively. Spurs and City are both vying for that final Champions league berth and will get no change from their mid-table opponents. Messieurs Hodgson and Pullis simply don't do favours!

Matches are coming thick and fast as we speak, more so for some than others. On Tuesday this week Chelsea played Inter Milan, whilst Villa and Wigan had a League fixture to fulfill. On Monday evening Liverpool entertained Portsmouth again in the League, and were back in action last night against Lille in the UEFA Europa League, whilst Fulham took on Juventus in the same competition.

To add into the mix there is a full programme of English Premier League fixtures this weekend, and the FA Cup semi-finals all involving Premier League sides are also on the horizon. Although these cup games are still some three weeks away, they may however be in the back of some players/managers minds.

What remains to be seen is how well the various managers and their coaching staff along with the healing hands of their respective physios can manage their squads, rotate them effectively and nurse their injured players through to the end of the season, whilst being able to juggle and prioritise their fixtures.

Obviously some Premier League teams have the budget to sustain sufficiently large enough squads to nullify this problem as best possible. It could be as much down to luck and good fortune on the injury front, as anything else, as to which teams succeed or fail come May.

Here is your chance to catch up on which players are currently out injured, who are close to a return to first-team action, and which players are really struggling to be fit to play any further part for their respective clubs, before the season ends.

Click on the 'link' to find out the latest on your Club's injury worries.

City Need To Be Wary Of Bent Threat - Betting News with Betfred

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Manchester City will have to be wary of the threat that Darren Bent brings as they continue their battle for a Premier League Top Four finish, with a visit to the north-east at the weekend.

City currently occupy fifth spot in the Premier League, but were given a boost when rivals Liverpool lost at Wigan earlier this week. Roberto Mancini's men will now look to increase the pressure on the Reds, as they vie for that fourth-placed finish and with it a lucrative Champions League campaign next season.
The Blues visit Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday.

On Tuesday night, Sunderland ended their 14-match winless run in the league dating back to October, with a 4-0 demolition of Bolton Wanderers, and some fans might fancy them to get another result on Sunday, with the Black Cats priced at 23/10 to win with Betfred, compared to the 6/5 on offer for City to take the spoils.

Darren Bent scored a hat-trick in that game, which took his tally for the season to 19 goals and his manager Steve Bruce has hailed him as a "natural goalscorer," who should be in contention for a place in Fabio Capello's England World Cup squad.

"To be at a team in the bottom half of the table and to get what he has got, it's fantastic. It is unbelievable with ten games to go," Bruce said.

However, it seems unlikely the striker will have the opportunity to boost England's World Cup chances, as Capello seems to view him as a fringe player at best.

Despite this, only Wayne Rooney has a better goal tally than Bent so far this season, and the former Spurs man could be a good bet to grab a goal against City and damage their top four bid. He is priced at 6/1 with Betfred to open the scoring in the game on Sunday.

Manchester City's last outing in the Premier League was their impressive 4-2 win over title-chasing Chelsea, which left many Premier League fans in the same mind set as goalkeeper Shay Given, who is convinced City can continue their fine form and finish in the top four.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
City, with home advantage will be too strong for Sunderland, despite their terrific midweek win, so my tip is City to win 3-1, which can be backed @ 16/1 with Betfred - Sunday 14th March, kick-off 4pm, live on Sky.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Clash Of The Wanderers - Betting News with Betfred

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The Wanderers of Wolverhampton and Bolton share a rich history as founder members of the Football League, but their future as Premier League rivals hangs in the balance.

It will be one of those infamous relegation 'six-pointers' that fans and pundits always harp on about when Bolton Wanderers play host to Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday. Both clubs are firmly embroiled in the relegation dogfight, separated by only one point with Bolton in 18th and Wolves sitting two places higher.

It was expected that Bolton would experience a resurgence under Owen Coyle, when he left Burnley to replace the sacked Gary Megson in early January.

But having won only one Premier Leaue game in eight since becoming manager of The Trotters, ironically against his former employers, the expected upsurge in performances and results has failed to materialize. Burnley themselves currently lie only one place below Bolton in 19th spot by virtue of an inferior goal difference.

I think the most disturbing statistic to consider is the fact that Bolton have only scored two goals in the last six Premiership games and have an equally terrible defensive record to boot.

Wolves too have struggled for goals, and along with Portsmouth have the league's most ineffective attack.
Wolves, however have looked more promising in recent weeks. Mick McCarthy's men having beaten Spurs and despite losing to Premier League leaders Chelsea, at times played some positive football.

Wolves captain Karl Henry puts their change in fortune down to the new formation that McCarthy has implemented. The side now plays 4-5-1 rather than 4-4-2, which was used earlier in the season, and the switch seems to be working.
Henry claims the new formation makes the side harder to break down and helps them create more chances as Kevin Doyle is a willing battler and runner up front.

Those who fancy Wolves to continue impressing can get 10/3 on them to win with Betfred.

"There has been a definite improvement in our performances since we have gone to the five-man midfield," the captain said.

"We know the way the gaffer wants to play that formation and, definitely away from home, you don't need to be charging forward and being too gung-ho."

McCarthy has been full of praise for the ex-Reading hitman Doyle, and Betfred's online betting odds make him 7/1 to score first in the game.

The gaffer said his Irish forward could trouble even the best Premier League defences, and could prove to be a bargain at £6.5 million, if he scores the goals that keep Wolves in the top flight.

Currently, the Premier League betting suggests Wolves are more likely to be relegated than Bolton, but a win for McCarthy's men on Saturday could change that significantly.

The Tip Of The Weekend:
Both teams will be desperate for a win but defensive lapses should ensure goals aplenty.
The tip of the weekend is a 2-2 draw @ 14/1 with Betfred - Saturday 27th February, kick-off 3pm.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

It's The Carlos and Emmanuel Show - Betting News with Betfred

Stoke City fans hoping their side can cause an upset and beat Manchester City in the FA Cup should be wary of a blossoming double act that will be looking to strike them down.

The two sides meet at Eastlands on Saturday to see who will make it into the last eight of the FA Cup and Stoke's defence are going to come up against two strikers who are bang in form and both loving life under new boss Roberto Mancini.

Emmanuel Adebayor and Carlos Tevez both scored in their side's 2-0 win over Bolton in midweek, a result which ensured City continue to put pressure on the Premier League top four. They currently lie fifth, level on points with Liverpool and with two games in hand.

Stoke, 12th in the Premier League must take some comfort from the fact they knocked Premier League title chasers Arsenal out of the FA Cup at The Britannia Stadium in the previous round, but worryingly have only managed to win twice on the road this season, at Tottenham in October in the League and at Leyton Orient in the Carling Cup back in August.

Any punters fancying the Potters to pull off what would be a 'cup shock' can back a Stoke win at odds of 7/1 with Betfred.

However, the FA Cup odds suggest 'The Blues' could go all the way to Wembley and Adebayor fancies their chances.

The Togo skipper has told the club's official website, "he is happy when he sees his strike partner score and the two are working hard together to fire City to success this season."

"If he can score 30 goals and I only score a few, I'll be more than happy. Because if Carlos and his goals help us to win things, I'll be very happy for us all," said Adebayor.

"We still have a chance to be at Wembley in the FA Cup and are in the running for fourth place in the Premier League. We will keep going and enjoy ourselves. We want to keep that dream."

The current form of City's striking duo could mean the Stoke defence are in for a torid 90 minutes and odds of 5/1 for their side to win 2-0 could be seen as a good bet by some fans.


The Tip Of The Weekend:
Carlos Tevez to be first goalscorer and Manchester City to win 3-0 @ 28/1 with Betfred - Saturday 13th February, kick-off 5.15pm, live on ITV1

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

The Physio Room - Injury Update

As we approach the so called 'business' end of the season, the race for honours is hotting up, while the contenders for the dreaded drop out of the financially lucrative Premier League is still far from decided.

Two points separate Chelsea and Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title, with Arsenal lying third. On Sunday second play third as Chelsea host Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

The race for the fourth and final Champions League spot for next seasons competition looks like it will be between Tottenham, Liverpool, Man City and Aston Villa.

It's a particularly hectic time of year for some teams:

Man Utd and Aston Villa also have domestic cup silverwear on their minds, as they meet in the Carling Cup final at Wembley at the end of this month.

Chelsea, Man Utd, and Arsenal also have 1st leg Champions League fixtures coming up in ten days time, with the 2nd legs in early to mid March.
Meanwhile Everton, Liverpool and Fulham have two legged ties coming up this month in their last of 32 round of the UEFA Europa League.

At the other end of the Premier League table Portsmouth are being slowly cast adrift, and have well documented problems off the field as well as on it.
Current boss Avram Grant needs to provide some divine inspiration if he is to close the six point gap that separates them from safety.
This weekend struggling Pompey travel to Old Trafford to face Man Utd - a daunting task at the best of times!

Newly promoted Burnley along with Hull occupy the other two relegation positions at present, but only three points separate them and Wigan in 14th position, so it looks like it's going to be 'squeaky bum' time right down to the final games of the season for them, along with the likes of Wolves, Bolton and West Ham.

To add into the mix the fact that Chelsea, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Man City, Wigan, Bolton and Portsmouth are still in this seasons F.A Cup, and their 5th round ties are to be played next weekend simply means there is no let up for any team at present, whatever their league position!

What remains to be seen is how well the various managers and their coaching staff along with the healing hands of their respective physios can manage their squads, rotate them effectively and nurse their injuried players through to the end of the season, whilst being able to juggle and prioritise their fixtures, and in doing so succeed in reaching their individual goals!

Obviously some Premier League teams have the budget to sustain sufficiently large enough squads to nullify this problem as best possible. However with the transfer window now shut, and only loan deals possible it could be as much down to luck and good fortune on the injury front, as anything else, as to which teams succeed or fail come May.

Meanwhile there is a full programme of English Premier League fixtures this weekend, so here is your chance to catch up on which players are out injured and who will be fit to play for their clubs.

Click on the 'link' to find out the latest on your Club's injury worries, and how soon it will be before some of your teams players will be back in action.

Rooney: ' Top Dog' At United - Betting News with Betfred

Wayne Rooney continues to develop as a footballer and according to his manager Sir Alex Ferguson, he is the man who can fire the goals that will bring silverware to Old Trafford this season.

The England striker has scored 20 goals in 28 games this season and his manager is convinced that no forward in the country can currently match his number 10.

Ferguson claims Rooney is highly likely to break the 30-goal barrier this season and he is "happy" with the player's form.

"The main reason he is scoring more goals is because he is in the right place at the right time. That's what goalscorers do," said the Scotsman.

"Wayne has become more aware of the penalty box, too. Playing him in that direct role gives him an appetite."

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti recently claimed that Manchester United would be a completely different team without Rooney, and the The Blues' gaffer added the England striker is carrying his side.

United travel to rivals Arsenal on Sunday knowing the result could have a huge impact on their Premier League title odds.

The Red Devils are 19/10 to win at The Emirates this Sunday.

Rooney is certainly on fire for United at the moment, and is priced at 6/1 to be the outright first goalscorer on Sunday.
However their defence has looked leaky in recent weeks and punters may see this and home advantage as the reason why an Arsenal win at 7/5 might represent the value bet.

However, given that neither side will want to lose, the tip of the weekend is the 1-1 draw which is currently at 11/2 in the football betting.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
A 1-1 draw priced @ 11/2 with Betfred - Sunday 31st January, kick-off at 4pm, live on Sky.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Coyle Facing Tricky Task On Return To Bolton - Betting News with Betfred

Cesc Fabregas could return to inspire Arsenal at the weekend and rain all over the parade that is Owen Coyle's first match in charge of Bolton.

The Scottish manager officially took the reins at Bolton earlier this week after the club agreed a compensation package with Burnley, allowing Coyle to return to the club he played for between 1993 and 1995.

It is common that new managers inspire their new teams to victory in their first game in charge, but Coyle's Bolton team faces a tricky home tie against Premier League title chasers Arsenal on Sunday, and so The Trotters are as big as 4/1 with to win the match.

Arsenal are currently in third place in the Premier League and they could be boosted for the trip to the Reebok Stadium by the return of influential midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

The Spanish midfielder has missed the last three games with the hamstring injury which he aggravated in his match-winning substitute appearance against Aston Villa on the 27th December.

He claims to have been working hard to regain his fitness, and is now optimistic of playing a part in the Bolton clash.

Fabregas said: "My hamstring feels 100 per cent now. The snow may have disrupted the football, but it hasn't interrupted my rehab."

Arsenal are well-fancied at 4/7 to ruin Coyle's homecoming party at the Reebok Stadium. Bolton's defensive problems this season could hint at an Arsenal win, but Bolton could raise their game to impress their new manager so 13/5 with Betfred for the match to be drawn may be the best Premier League bet of the weekend.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
A 1-1 draw priced @ 6/1 with Betfred - Sunday 17th January, kick-off at 4pm, live on Sky.

By Drew Swainston
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Liverpool Looking To Get Campaign Back On Track Versus Wolves - Betting Tips with Betfred

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has admitted his side must look to win all their remaining Premier League games in order to finish in the top four.

The Anfield club are currently in eighth place in the Premier League, having only won eight of their 18 games this season, and face a resurgent Wolves side on Boxing Day, who have taken nine out of a possible twelve points in their last four fixtures.

Wolves are an outside bet at Premier League odds of 15/2 with Betfred, but 'could be' worth a small wager on the basis of a very inconsistent Red's team this term, who have only been victorious in five of their nine games at Anfield.

Liverpool are eight points adrift of Aston Villa in fourth place and Brazilian midfielder Lucas thinks the side's target must now be to win "almost every game" in order to get back into the Champions League next season.

"Wolves have quality. We have to respect them and try to show our own quality and play well for the fans," said Lucas.

"All games are tough in the Premier League, so we have to prepare well, work hard and have confidence. We have quality and if we can play well we can beat anyone."

Odds with Betfred of 5/1 for a 2-0 victory for Liverpool could be a good offering as the Reds will be looking to recover quickly from their 2-0 defeat at Portsmouth last weekend.

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy could also make big changes to his side, like he did against Manchester United earlier in the month, which would also make 8/1 for there to be over 2.5 goals in the tie a good football bet.


My Tip Of The Weekend:
Back over 2.5 goals @ 8/1 in the Liverpool versus Wolves fixture on Boxing Day - kick-off 5.30pm GMT.

By Charlotte Cook
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

Arsenal Suffering Ahead Of Crucial Trip To Anfield - Betting News with Betfred

Arsenal are suffering from their worst injury crisis in recent years, as they prepare for this weekend's crucial Premier League match against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

The Emirates treatment room must seem like the set of a war movie as almost a dozen first-team players are currently ruled out of the game.

Robin van Persie, Nicklas Bendtner, Gael Clichy, Theo Walcott, Abou Diaby, Kieran Gibbs and Johan Djourou were all missing ahead of last weekend's victory against Stoke City.

Then, during the 2-0 win, Tomas Rosicky, Emmanuel Eboue, Armand Traore and William Gallas all picked up knocks that could see them miss the Liverpool tie.

Arsenal are priced at 15/8 with Betfred to win at Anfield and could be well-fancied as Liverpool have been struggling in the Premier League this season, having won only seven of their 15 games to date.

Arsenal's gap behind top-placed Chelsea reduced to eight points after the West London club lost to Manchester City at the weekend, and Arsene Wenger thinks his Gunners side can still upset the domestic football odds and mount a challenge for the Premier League title.

The Frenchman has bemoaned his side's lack of luck with injuries this season, and claims they are suffering more than any other side at the top of the table.

"You cannot say there is not a reason for it but we have not found it yet," said Wenger.

"It's the worst season for injuries for us. And they are all in the same area - in the offensive side. Last year it was in the defensive side."


My Tip Of The Weekend:
A 0-0 draw priced @ 15/2 with Betfred could be seen by many as a likely score as both teams are struggling offensively and the game may be tight and nervy as it is a must-win for both sides.

By Charlotte Cook
(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

To All Football Fans Out There...............Xmas Is Coming! Who Is Your Favourite Football Player?

Are you a football fan, but stuck for gift ideas this Christmas!
Have you a family, relatives or friends who are mad about football?

Then look no further!

How would you like to purchase a professional photograph of a favourite player or players?
As long as they play in England, then there is a great chance I can get you an original unsigned print of them playing for their respective clubs.

Unsigned photographs come in two sizes:

16" X 12" at £8 each (not inc.postage & packing)
12" X 8" at £6 each (not inc.postage & packing)

* Depending on who the photo is of, it is possible I may be able to get it signed for you as well - in time for Xmas!

The cost of signed photos varies significantly depending on the club involved.

All pictures are unframed, so that the recipients of your gift can choose the type/style that best suits their taste.

Whether you live in the UK, USA, Europe or further afield then email me at mla.ross@virgin.net with your request & I will get back to you within 24 hours.

The Physio Room - Injury Update

With the Word Cup draw from Cape Town, South Africa only about six hours away (5.30pm GMT), there will be plenty of nervous, anxious faces looking on to see who England are drawn against in the opening phase of the competition.

Obviously the fans' will be keen to see that England get a favourable draw in the group stages, perhaps joined by the likes of Slovenia and New Zealand, rather than the Ivory Coast or France - but what about the players?

The likes of Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, John Terry and Ashley Cole will without doubt be watching with great interest.

However those players on the fringes will probably be more concerned not who we draw but whether they themselves will be on the plane to South Africa next summer.
Obviously England boss Fabio Capello will want to take his strongest possible squad to the biggest tournament in world football. Capello is unlikely to name a squad that contains out of form players, or anybody struggling with a slight injury.

Therefore the fringe players if they are to force their way into the squad will only be able to do so if they are being picked on a regular basis by their respective club managers, show good form and stay injury free.

Players such as: David James, Ben Foster, Joe Cole, Peter Crouch, Ashley Young, Darren Bent, Phil Jagielka, Ledley King, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Carlton Cole, Mathhew Upson, Wayne Bridge and Stewart Downing to name but a few, will probably all be sweating on their places in the England squad when it is narrowed down to the final 22.

Meanwhile there is a full programme of English Premier League fixtures this weekend, so here is your chance to catch up on which players are out injured and who will be fit to play for their clubs.

Click on the 'link' to find out the latest on your Club's injury worries, and how soon it will be before some of your teams players will be back in action.

David Moyses' Everton are injury ravaged at the moment, and have eleven players on the treatment table as we speak. A couple may in contention for at least a place on the bench for Sunday's visit of Tottenham.
Arsenal and West Ham are also struggling with injuries, while Wigan have no injury worries going into their game with Birmingham at the DW stadium tomorrow.