The first of the major trophies goes on the line this weekend as Manchester United and Aston Villa met for the final of the Carling Cup. Online bookmakers have posted United as early favourites in the Wembley final with odds averaging around the 13/15 mark. There are one two bookmakers who are quoting evens, however, I don’t expect those odds to last too long at all.

Villa, on the other hand, have been supported in small wages at around 4/1 with the best prices being 17/4. The worst price is 7/2 so if you fancy Villa, grabbing them at the 4’s could turn out to be a good price. Of course, the real question is, who will win?

United have been the cup’s kings in recent years, however, their form coming into this game will not fill their supporters with a lot of hope. Under normal circumstances you would expect to see United’s odds a lot shorter, perhaps even as short as 1/2.

The ninety minute draw has been a popular result and has been backed to less than 7/2 – that’s an interesting bet considering the form of these two sides. Extra time has been required a couple of times over the last five years and this final looks to be just as close.

Of the two, I like Villa. I like their game play and I think they may be better suited to Wembley. United are playing well at home but seem to get the jitters away from home. Villa are a little more consistent away from home. At 4/1, they are great odds and certainly worth considering.

Online bookmakers are also taking special side bets on the game as well. If you don’t like straight out bets, check out some of the side bets.