It tames tigers this gambling lark. It really does. Last Sunday, I had a £60 bet on Manchester United and Arsenal to win, with both teams to score. The double was paying over £700. I was an injury-time Ainsley Maitland-Niles worldie away from collecting.
I’m still not really over it. Also, I’m not having it that Maitland-Niles is still only 29.
One to ponder. Why is it impossible to say Dua Lipa without sounding like Dennis from Auf Wiedersehen, Pet?
Read on for a breakdown of the best bets and football predictions from Sports News Blitz’s punting laureate, The Bookie Basher. This week’s Premier League betting tips include the big Manchester derby on Sunday, September 13.
Tottenham vs Everton
Tottenham could really do with a win here. They have taken just one point from their first three Premier League games.
They have also spent a fortune. Yet Spurs have still failed to score in the league.
The goalless draw at Nottingham Forest at least showed some defensive resistance. However, Spurs failed to register a shot on target.
The lack of a recognised centre-forward remains a concern for Roberto De Zerbi. His new-look side still needs to find an attacking spark.
The betting question is whether Tottenham’s strong home record against Everton can outweigh their current form.
Spurs have won the last five league meetings between these clubs in North London. That run includes a 1-0 victory in May.
However, Everton look dangerous at the moment. That makes them a tricky opponent for a Tottenham side short of confidence in front of goal.
I’m going Desmond.
Suggested bet: 2-2 draw at 14/1 (bet365 / Betfred / Boylesports)
Sunderland vs Arsenal
There is something faintly cruel about sending Arsenal fans to Sunderland at 8pm on a Saturday.
That comes after their Champions League trip to Naples on Wednesday. Apparently, spending Saturday afternoon doing something sensible was not an option.
Sunderland have made an encouraging start. They also have no major injury or suspension concerns.
Arsenal, though, possess the deeper squad.
The Gunners won 1-0 in Italy. They also dominated Napoli during their opening Champions League game.
A bet on Arsenal to win without conceding looks appealing.
Suggested bet: Arsenal to win to nil at 13/10 (Hills)
Coventry City vs Brighton
Newly promoted Coventry City have yet to pick up a point. However, they have shown signs that they can compete at this level.
Frank Lampard’s Sky Blues lost only 1-0 to Manchester City last time out. That defeat came at the Etihad.
Brighton, meanwhile, have been involved in plenty of goals.
I’m not going to overcomplicate this one.
The Bookie Basher predictive algorithm reckons there is a 79% chance of two things happening this Sunday. Brighton win, and I upset the members of my dad’s social club again while the bingo is on.
Suggested bet: Brighton to win and over 2.5 goals at 15/8 (Sky Bet)
Manchester United vs Manchester City
The first Manchester derby of the season could be a classic.
Manchester City sit at the top of the table. However, they do not have a great recent record in this fixture.
City have won only one of their last four Premier League games against Manchester United. They have also drawn one and lost two.
Manchester United have also been strong at home.
The Red Devils have won nine of their last 10 Premier League home games since Michael Carrick took charge in January. They have scored at least twice in each of those victories.
Carrick is a strange cat, no?
He is 45, but his hair remains the same as it did 20 years ago. I am convinced his barnet will one day be studied at Harvard.
This game reeks of goals.
The season is still young, but Erling Haaland is doing Erling Haaland things. He is already as short as 4/7 with some firms to finish as the Premier League’s top scorer.
Bruno Fernandes has also impressed. He has three goals and one assist during an erratic start for Manchester United.
Bet builder announced, and my rationale is thus:
You’re the outcast – you’re the underclass
But you don’t care – because you’re living fast
Suggested bet: Bruno Fernandes to score / Erling Haaland to score / Rayan Cherki to assist at 12/1 (bet365)
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