Chelsea’s fall from grace has continued following their 1-3 loss to Arsenal and the future is not looking particularly bright. While they have been struggling to find any real form, Manchester United have powered on and remain the only Premier League club to be undefeated so far this season. They sit comfortably on top of the table two points clear of Arsenal – and United still have a game in hand to extend that lead. Online bookmakers have firmed their price into even money with Chelsea, once evens themselves, now out to 4/1.
We are into that mad period that ends each year with sides having to play four games in as little as ten days. This is going to stretch some sides to the limit. It’s probably not good for the sport, but it can be good for punters if you’re prepared to take a risk or two. However, there is not too much to get excited about in today’s games – hopefully we tip a couple of longer priced winners.
The late game looks to be a contender for that today. Manchester United may be on top of the ladder, and they may be undefeated all season, but on the road they have managed to draw six of the seven games played. Their hosts today are Birmingham and while they have struggled recently, they do have a couple of their stars back. Birmingham have an impressive home record being undefeated for almost 15 months now. Manchester United’s betting odds of 8/15 look a little weak given those stats while Birmingham’s odds of 6/1 look fairly attractive. The draw at 7/2 looks to be the best bet of the three – especially given the pair’s current record.
The other game that really appeals as a standout is the one between Sunderland and Blackpool. Sunderland have an impressive record at home with five wins and four draws from their last nine. However, Blackpool have underrated all season yet they continue to surprise punters and online bookmakers alike. Blackpool have been solid in defense and can score goals in tough situations. They beat Stoke on their turf, always a tough task. Sunderland at 8/13 are a little short while Blackpool look to be good value at 11/2. The draw at 3/1 again looks to be great value.
In both those games, you can back both the draw and the longer priced sides to win, and still profit if only one gets up. Use a smart betting system and you’re assured of a profit with one result, an even bigger profit if both of our predictions get up. Look for value during this mad week of football and you’re sure to profit – the betting odds are in your favour.