Sanchez Brace Sinks Poor England

Alexis Sanchez makes it two

Outclassed. Outgunned. Outplayed. That would be my three word summary of what I witnessed on friday night. 

A brace for Barcelona front man Alexis Sanchez either side of half-time was enough for Chile to seal a comprehensive and deserved 2-0 victory at Wembley.

England were poor from the off and despite three debutants in the sides it was the more established players who let the team down. England may have been missing some key personal however I honestly do not think they would have made that much difference.

The game highlighted many issues within the England team and the trouble they will have at next summer's World Cup.

The Chilean's started very brightly and in all honestly could have been three up by half-time and England could not have complained. Man of the match Alexis Sanchez opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a diving header past the helpless debutant Fraser Forster. Then in the 90th minute a woeful defensive error from Cahill sent Sanchez clean through before cooly chipping Forster. I thought Forster maybe went down too soon and made Sanchez mind up for him however I do not blame him,  Sanchez was through one on one and Forster was left totally exposed.

Forster had a very good game making some very good saves as well as being virtually blameless for both goals. For me he is a real contender for that number 1 spot. Joe Hart will be back for the Germany game but the pressure on him will be huge.

Defensively England were very poor all night, with Cahill and Jones looking totally out of their depth. The lack of pace between the pair was exposed badly as they both resembled big, slow, traction engines compared to the dainty, skilful, quick and balance of the Chilean forwards. This must give Roy Hodgson a major concern over this area of the team. Also I am a big fan of Leighton Baines but he had a torrid night. You could argue that he had no cover however it was not his best game to put it nicely. For sure Ashley Cole will now start on Tuesday against the Germans.

Attacking wise England were not much better as we struggled to create anything of real note. The Chileans did show their 'professional' nature throughout the game as when any English player did break through or look like starting something they were immediately fouled as happened to Jack Wilshire on a few occasions. Although in the main, England hardly troubled the weak Chilean back line.

The first issue that struck me was the speed of the Chileans. Now I am not just talking about speed in a physical sense, of which they had plenty, but also mentally. The speed of the Chile side combined with their delightful ball skills was something England just could not cope with. Even more worrying is that granted this is a good Chilean side by they are not of the level of Brazil or Argentina.

I still look on in disbelief when I see the likes of James Milner starting and finishing with a central midfield of Tom Cleverley and Jordan Henderson. None of these players are good enough for International Football and should not be on the plane to Brazil. End of. They bring nothing, they do not even impress for their respected clubs in the Premier League. I was disappointed Lambert did not get any game time as I feel he should be given a chance. I hope to see him in the Germany game even if just for last 20/30 minutes.

I do not like to over analyse friendlies as they should be used to try new players and formations as is done by other major international sides but this was a particularly painful watch. I do not think Hodgson should be criticised for trying new players. I think he will have learnt an awful lot about some of those players from last night.

Of the debutants Forster looked good while Lallana and Rodriguez struggled. Neither really managed to impact on the game in the way they would have hoped but I feel Lallana will start against Germany.

England really were taught a lesson by a fine Chilean side. What is also concerning is this was in England, at Wembley in November. What chance have we got in South America?

England were booed off at the end and I expect changes for Germany game. I expect Hart, Walker, Gerrard, Cole, Sturridge and Townsend to start while changes at centre back with certainly Jagielka and possibly Smalling.  

England Calls For Rodriguez And Lallana

Rodriguez has had a strong start to the season.

Southampton duo Jay Rodriguez and Adam Lallana have both been brought into the England squad for the upcoming friendlies with Chile and Germany.

Both players have had strong starts to the season and join fellow Southampton player Rickie Lambert by earning a call up.

Rodriguez endured a difficult time at the start of last season after his £6million move from Burnley and was even labelled the worst summer signing by some journalists. However he has worked very hard and is now a main stay of the Southampton team. 

Whether they are good enough for International football remains to be seen but this is the perfect opportunity try them out. 

Roy Hodgson confirmed that Joe Hart would start in one of the friendlies despite losing his place at Manchester City recently.  Hodgson confirmed Hart is his number one. Personally I would like to see Fraser Forster in both games. I feel he deserves a chance and should be given game time. It would do Hart good to know his place is under threat for both club and country. 

Looking at the squad a couple of names stand out - but for the wrong reasons. Jordan Henderson and Tom Cleverley for me really do not deserve a place. Neither have had particularly strong starts to the season and feel others could have been given a chance. I honestly feel that if they didn't not play for Liverpool and Manchester United respectively they would not be in the squad. 

Despite this I like the fact that Hodgson is willing to try new players, unlike his predecessor, and gives people a chance who deserve it as this gives hope to others within the Premier League. I hope to see Lallana, Rodriguez, Barkley, Lambert and Forster all getting game time.   

Goalkeepers

Fraser Forster, Joe Hart, John Ruddy.

Defenders

Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Kieran Gibbs, Phil Jagielka, Glen Johnson, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Kyle Walker.

Midfielders

Ross Barkley, Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Adam Lallana, Frank Lampard, James Milner, Andros Townsend, Jack Wilshere.

Forwards

Jermain Defoe, Rickie Lambert, Jay Rodriguez, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge, Daniel Welbeck.

Time for English Football State of Origin

Origin is huge success in Australia. 

Every year I watch the State of Origin in Australian Rugby League witnesses passion, drama and great entertainment. This is where the states of Queensland and New South Wales faces each other in a three match series.

The series has been a huge success since its creation in the early 1980's and is now one of the most anticipated matches of the year in Australia with sell out crowds and a worldwide audience.

I have always wondered why this idea is not used in English football. You could easily have North v South. Having sat through numerous boring friendlies for the England team, this would be something new and different. I think it would be a great concept as it could be seen as almost a trial match for the England team.

Also I believe the British public will get behind it, and I am sure they would be sell outs if sold/marketed properly. You could have three matches held over the country.

Game 1: North - Old Trafford

Game 2: South - The Emirates

Game 3: Midlands - Villa Park

Also to prevent the chance of draws, if level after 90 minutes it should go straight to penalties. The pressure of this would be the closest the pressure of a World Cup or European Championships. 

Now the teams would be an issue whether they are decided by birth place, first professional appearance, club and also which side to players from the Midlands go on. Personally I would say birth-place and players from the midlands can be selected by either side, so if chosen by both the player decides. Decisions by these players stick, you could not play for South one year and North the next.  

Also you would have to decide whether Scottish and Welsh players would be allowed to play. Personally I would say no but it is open to debate. 

For Example :

TEAM SOUTH:

                                          HART

G.JOHNSON          TERRY           FERDINAND            COLE

                  LAMPARD    PARKER      WILSHERE

WALCOTT                       DEFOE                           STURRDIGE



Manager : Harry Redknapp




TEAM NORTH :

                                             FOSTER

   JONES                LESCOTT        CAHILL              BAINES

                    GERRARD    CARRICK        MILNER

  A. JOHNSON                ROONEY                         WELBECK
                                   



Manager : David Moyes

This is just hypothetical. But I would want to see this.

Obviously there are many obstacles, such as the clubs and scheduling but I think the FA should work with the Premier League to make it happen. It is a guaranteed sell out with rights sold around the world. 

It would benefit the England team and Roy Hodgson as he would see these players without the foreigners around them to judge them. It would also highlight the growing issue of lack of English players in the Premier League and it could also be a stepping stone between club and county. 

I will be sending this idea to the FA. 

Ferdinand and Crouch left out as Hodgson names England squad

Hodgson names squad

There was much speculation and intrigue about the announcement of this squad however in the end many will be left scratching their heads. In my opinion certain decisions in the squad baffle me as do some of those who did not make the 23. 

The squad itself is again a squad of obvious names without that many new faces nor ideas. I understand Hodgson's argument of trying to pick the players who qualified for the tournament however I would have liked to have seen more changes. His inclusion of so many Liverpool players is also confusing. England have been written off by nearly all with regards to this tournament so I am a bit disappointed that the same old names have been picked. 

No call for Rio

The main talking point has been the leaving out of Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand (left). In the press conference Roy Hodgson said it was for 'pure footballing reasons' citing the fact that he has only played once for england in the last year. Although using this thought process the inclusion of Steven Gerrard should be brought into question. Many of the press and people on social media sites are lamenting his absence although for me it is no surprise. Personally I would not have taken him. I do not feel his form this year has been good enough as without Nemanja Vidic by his side he has showed how vulnerable he is. His fitness would also worry me and for these reasons I would have left him out. Many are citing to the problem with John Terry as the reason for his admission although I do believe Hodgson when he said that that played no part in the decision. 

Goalkeepers:

In truth I do not have any problem with his selection in this area. Hopefully Joe Hart remains fit for the entire tournament. With regards to who is available this is the three I would have picked. The only change would be Robert Green out and Ben Foster in however due to Foster's self-exile from being picked this is not possible. I am very happy for John Ruddy. He has had a wonderful season and it is good that he is getting his chance. He throughly deserved to be picked. 

Defenders:

This area has caused a few raised eyebrows since the announcement earlier today. Despite as I mentioned earlier the well documented exclusion of Ferdinand, for me it is the exclusion of Micah Richards which disappoints me most. He deserves to be in the squad, his performances this year have proved that. He has improved so much in recent times and you cannot compare him to the raw, awkward and error - prone player he was 3 years ago. You do wonder what he has to do to be picked. His absence is even more galling when you consider that due to Kyle Walker's injury it seems that Richards is not even number two. Without doubt these two are the best right-backs England has. Therefore the selection of Glen Johnson is baffling. He has been poor this year and his defensive weaknesses have be highlighted time and time again in an England shirt. He is without doubt a weak link.  

I am also unhappy with this idea of Phil Jones playing right-back. He is clearly not a right-back and should not be used so. He also looks uncomfortable and out of position. This will be exploited when we play the top sides. I do agree with his inclusion but hope he is not asked to fill in at right-back. It seems crazy to me that we would rather take a man seen as a utility and fill in when there is a proper right-back available. Elsewhere I do not have too many complains, Ashley Cole and Leighton Baines deserve their places as does Gary Cahill. For me Cahill is the best central defender England has. Joleon Lescott has received many plaudits this season for his role in Manchester City's title win however I do feel that his performances have been made to look better due to the fact that he plays alongside Vincent Kompany, one of the best defenders in the world. Lescott is also prone to lapses in concentration and errors as shown in the final game against QPR. This for me has been England problem for years, all of our so called 'top' centre backs play along side world class players that cover their floors. For example Vidic for Ferdinand, Ricardo Carvalho for John Terry, Kompany for Lescott. This is why when they play together in the big games England's defence looks poor. 

Terry picked for Euro squad

Finally the inclusion on John Terry (right) was almost a given despite the fact that I would not take him. I do not see how we can succeed with him. The mans on and off the field antics are deplorable. Many have spoken of his place in the dressing room now he is not captain as potentially difficult. This was seen in South Africa with the 'Terry press conference'. He loves being the man in charge, we have seen this at Chelsea for years, undermining any manager he want and ultimately getting them the sack e.g Andre Villas Boas. Their is a reason why so many people joke about Terry running the Chelsea team. This along with the racism case hanging over him presents a very dangerous man to have in your team. Hodgson played the 'innocent until proven guilty' card however we all know he is guilty and how bad it that going to look when he is found guilty? Especially with the rumours it was pick Terry or Ferdinand. So we picked the racist. Many will argue that he should be judged on the field, however that provides no help for the Terry cause. In the last few weeks he has been torn apart twice by Andy Carroll and let his team down with his mindless sending out at the Nou Camp. It he was willing to do that in the Champions League semi-final as the captain of his 'beloved' Chelsea, you cannot take him. He could cost you the tournament. 

Despite my criticism of the defenders we have selected the truth is if not them then who? That is the problem, we do not have enough players to pick from. Other centre halves are Chris Smalling- injured or Ledley King and Jamie Carragher both too old, slow and injury prone. Our reserve defender Phil Jagielka is a great player and I would loved to have had him in the squad. For me he is greatly underrated. He and Lescott had a good partnership at Everton and it is very rare to have two players who have played together with regularity. This is another reason I think he picked Terry due to his partnership with Cahill. I do think that Cole, Cahill and Terry will be in the starting line-up for the France game. 

On the whole even if I accept the Terry decision the selection of Johnson I can not as Micah Richards should be on the plane. 

Midfield:

Hodgson has flooded the midfield by selecting nine players. He has picked the classic names of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Gereth Barry. These three were always going to be picked despite for me Gerrard's worrying lack of form and Barry being, for me, poor. He is another one who is covered up by his Manchester City teammates. He is billed as a defensive midfielder who breaks up plays i.e the classic role of Claude Makelele although you could never compare him to the great man. For me he does not stop anything. He is too slow and players breeze past him. His performance in the hammering by Germany showed that. The way Mezut Ozil covered around 50 metres as Barry struggled to cover 20 to win the ball and then process to power away form him. 

Something new- Chamberlain gets the nod

Elsewhere I was delighted by the inclusion of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (right) and also happy to see Theo Walcott and Scott Parker. Chamberlain deserves his chance as he has shown his class this season. Walcott is a dangerous player and I hope he shows his true talent and of course Scott Parker. A terrific player who should have been in the World Cup squad two years ago. Ashley Young despite the diving deserves to be in and could prove a very useful asset for England. 

On the other hand the inclusion of Stewart Downing angers me. The man has been awful all year. 

1.NO Premier League assists

2.NO Premier League goals.`

How can this man be taken as an attacking winger. The man in the reserve list is that of Adam Johnson. Two years ago I wrote an article lamenting the fact that he was not picked for the World Cup squad. Now two year on and I am doing the same. The truth is this boy has talent. He has unfortunately suffered as I suspected due to the fact that he does not play regular football. I am sure that if he played every week he would be in this squad no doubt. He is a far superior player to Stewart Downing. For me he will have to leave City to get regular football. I honestly would have preferred Wolves' Matt Jarvis, Swansea's Scott Sinclair or Chelsea Daniel Strurridge (who is a reserve) to Downing. Finally the inclusion of bag-carrier James Milner is a frustrating one. He adds nothing to the team. People say he is a utility man although for me he is just poor in a range of different positions. He is always shown up on the international stage and will be again if used. Literally Ryan Taylor of Newcastle could do what Milner does will ease. 

Strikers:

Carroll lucky to be included

Hodgson's decision to go with four is interesting. I understand that due to the formation we play we would not require many forwards however would have liked to have seen five. The selection of Wayne Rooney was a given despite him missing games one and two by which time England could in theory be out. Danny Welbeck was another obvious one and despite me not being a fan he can do a job and hate to say it but the fact he plays for Manchester United made his selection a cert. Andy Carroll (left) is one I agree with as he offers something completely different. He has shown the form that got him his big money move and England cap recently although he can feel mightily lucky to be included. Jermaine Defoe I do not agree with. For me he is far too wasteful in front of goal which in the big games will cost you. I see why he has been picked due to being small, fast and adds to the balance of the squad having a smaller forward. I honestly feel if Darren Bent was fit he would have bee picked over him.  

Of those who have missed out I feel sorry for Grant Holt. Second highest English scorer behind Rooney this year. For me he deserved a chance. I am not saying he should start however what sort of message does it send when he has the season he has had and does not get picked. I am sure if he was signed by Liverpool or a Manchester United he would have been picked. He plays for unfashionable Norwich and people laugh at his style but the man has ability and to not even be a reserve is a joke. Peter Crouch can also feel unlucky. I suppose Carroll has been chosen over him although Crouch's international goal scoring record is awesome. I am sure he will be very very disappointed.

Overall the squad does not fill me with hope for the tournamnet. The same names, going to another tournament, whereby the same outcome looks extremely likely. I do not like the fact that so many of the squad are from the top teams again. Players are lesser clubs never get the recognition. Fact. Grant Holt is a prime example. My annoyance is not that they are not in the team but they never seem to get a chance. The England squad is a closed shop. 

My hopes for the tournament are slim, I hope we get out of the groups however cannot see us going further then that. For me the Germans will win it and watch out for the French to be the surprise team. 

England squad for Euro 2012:

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Man City), Rob Green (West Ham), John Ruddy (Norwich)

Defenders: Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Man United), John Terry (Chelsea), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Leighton Baines (Everton)

Midfielders: Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Gareth Barry (Man City), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham), Ashley Young (Man United), James Milner (Man City)

Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Man United), Danny Welbeck (Man United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham)

Standby players: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Weekend Tips

It is finally here. The final day of the Premier League season is upon us and what a day it will be. I cannot remember a time when the title, top four places and relegation issues will all be decided on the final day. It is going to be very tense and exciting afternoon, which will involve many twists and turns. A full 10 matches all kicking of at 3pm for the only time during the season. Personally I cannot wait. 

Also this weekend we have huge Challenge Cup Quarter-final action and Saturday racing from Ascot, Haydock, Nottingham and Lingfield. 

Last weekend my bet of the day came through as Chelsea beat Liverpool. It was all going as I had predicted, a 3-0 win for Chelsea, until Andy Carroll came on and changed the game. Luckily they hung on and I collected the winnings. 

Football:

It is written in the stars?
Hughes heads back to the Ethiad

So many massive games this weekend. Only four of the ten games, have no effect on the title, Champions League places and relegation. It is difficult to know where to start. Although I will start will the title race. Personally I can not see anything other then a Manchester City win over relegation threatened Queens Park Rangers. At home, with the team they have and the way they are playing it is difficult to see how they will not win. However we have seen some incredible things this season in the division. City are @ 1/8 (SkyBet) to win this one, 8/1(SkyBet) the draw and a massive 14/1 (SkyBet) for the unthinkable QPR win. Roberto Mancini must be expecting to win this one although another interesting element is that of current QPR manager, and former Manchester City manager, Mark Hughes (left). Sacked by City, Hughes says he is not motivated by revenge, although you can bet he would love to deny City winning the title as well as keeping QPR up. Also players such as Nedum Onuoha, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Joey Barton going back to their former club. It is almost written in the stars that a team managed by Hughes will deny City with a goal scored by an ex-city player. This is without doubt Sir Alex Ferguson's dream. It seems far-fetched but you never never know. 

Ferguson hoping for an incredible day 

Meanwhile Sir Alex Ferguson's (right) Manchester United are travelling to Sunderland. This is potentially a difficult one. Sunderland have been poor of late, as they appear to be thinking about their holidays. Although final day of the season, final home game and hosting United they may just be up for it. I expect United to win @2/5 (SkyBet) as I think they will attack Sunderland from the off, although they have been wasteful in front of goal. If you fancy Sunderland here you will get 13/2 (SkyBet) or the draw @7/2 (SkyBet). I think United will just win this one 2-1. 

The race for top four it now at the final stage. Chelsea have dropped out of the running which leaves Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle United to battle it out for 3rd/4th/5th. However with the possibility of Chelsea winning the Champions League it is now made it even more important to finish third as to guarantee that Champions League place. Arsenal travel to take on West Brom in Roy Hodgson final game in charge. Tottenham are at home to Fulham and Newcastle face a very tough trip to in-form Everton. Arsenal are an unbelievably short, 1/66 (SkyBet) to finish sunday in the top four, Tottenham are 1/8 (SkyBet) and Newcastle are 9/2 (SkyBet).

Hodgson hoping for perfect send off

The bookies seems certain that Arsenal will come third however I am not sure. I think the game against West Brom is going to be very very hard. I have made this one my bet of the day. I honestly believe that West Brom @4/1 (SkyBet) will win this one, if Tottenham and Newcastle United can take advantage is another issue. For me Arsenal showed their weaknesses last week against Norwich and I can see West Brom doing to Arsenal what they did to Chelsea and pick up a 1-0 win. It is Roy Hodgson's (right) last game and so a big performance is expected, on top of this they are also the home side which is a plus for them. For me this is a good bet. I think Arsene Wenger will be very very worried about this one. The bookies go Arsenal @8/13 (SkyBet) and the draw is at @3/1 (SkyBet).

Finally for me Bolton are looking a cert for relegation. Even if QPR fail to get anything from the Ethiad, Bolton will have to win at Stoke. Stoke in truth have nothing to play for and people will remember what Wigan did their last year. However the way Bolton have been playing I cannot see it. Last week was huge, to throw away a 2 goal lead at home to West Brom was the final nail in the coffin for me.

Bolton are 4/11 (SkyBet) to go down with QPR @11/5 (SkyBet)

Bet of the Day: West Brom @4/1(SkyBet) to beat Arsenal. 

Longshot of the game: Hollywood script bet - QPR to draw at Manchester City @8/1 (SkyBet)

Accumulator: Chelsea, Swansea, Norwich and Wigan @ 14/1 (SkyBet)

Horse-Racing:

Win bet:  Beachfire @11/2(SkyBet) in the 3.45 @ Lingfield 

Each-way bet: Hawkeyethenoo @12/1(SkyBet) in the 3.25 @Ascot

Rugby League:

Leeds Rhinos won as expectedly last night as they beat Leigh 60-12 to progress to the semi-finals. Today it is the massive game between St Helens and Wigan Warriors. This one is very very tough to call. Both on form, both with terrific players. St Helens are  @11/8 (SkyBet) and Wigan are @10/11(SkyBet) I think St Helens will edge it, I predict 24-20. On Sunday, I expect Huddersfield Giants @1/33 (SkyBet) to progress with a home win over London Broncos @8/1 (SkyBet) and Catalan Dragons @8/11(SkyBet) to beat Warrington Wolves @11/10 (SkyBet). This one is going to be a great game. Catalan in France are very very tough, not many teams go to the south of France and come back with anything another then defeat. 

Weekend Tips

This week, we have a full football fixture list, including the final day of the Championship and Horse-Racing from Sandown, Market Rasen, Rippon and Punchestown as well as Rugby League Challenge Cup action. So there are plenty of chances for money to be made. Last week was not a bad weekend despite the horse-racing failures, the football bets made the money. My bet of the day, QPR to beat Tottenham came in @3/1 hope you had that as well as my prediction of an Arsenal/Chelsea draw @16/5 and Ched Evan-less Sheffield United's defeat to the MK Dons.

Football:

This week's bet of the day is not a big price nor an outsider however I can not see any other result.

Villa looks doomed. More misery
predicted for Mcleish today

It is the derby game involving Roy Hodgson's West Brom and Alex Mcleish's (left) Aston Villa. West Brom are 11/10 (Skybet) for the win and both a Aston Villa win and draw is @12/5 (SkyBet). West Brom are a good side and awkward away from home. They won last week away at Anfield and confidence will be high. They are literally the complete opposite of Aston Villa. Villa are devoid of ideas and quality. Villa's defeat in mid-week showed just how poor Villa really are. It may be said that West Brom 'have nothing to play for' however they have in this one. A derby for a start and also the chance to send local rivals towards the Championship. That is insidentically exactly where Aston Villa are heading. I said it weeks ago take the 12/1 Villa to go down, now it is down to 5/1 (SkyBet) however this still presents a great bet. After today they will be nearer 7/2 as their slide continued. To me Alex Mcleish looks a beaten man  whose time at Villa Park is coming to an end. I do believe he will be sacked whether they stay up or not. For me they will not pick up a single point from now to the end of the season.

Another defeat looking likely at Carrow Road
for Dalglish

The larger bet in the Premier League is that of a home win for Paul Lambert's Norwich against Liverpool. Norwich @11/4 represent a great price. Liverpool are still playing poorly and will be focusing on the FA Cup final. Carrow Road is a very tricky away day, and I do not think Liverpool will be up for the fight. Kenny Dalglish's (right) Liverpool also still have a problem with scoring and despite Norwich's leaking defence can not see them winning this one. Liverpool are 10/11 (SkyBet) and the draw it 13/5 (SkyBet) My fun bet prediction Grant Holt to score first - Norwich win 3-1 @125/1 (SkyBet)

Elsewhere in the Premier League both Newcastle and Arsenal have tricky trips to the DW and Britannia respectively in the race for top four. I would not be surprised if both slipped up here. The bookies agree with Wigan at 13/8 (SkyBet) for the win however Stoke are a larger 16/5 (SkyBet) in what is in truth a great bet. Arsenal always struggle at the Britannia so maybe worth a few quid. Newcastle to make it seven wins on the spin is @6/4 (SkyBet) and Arsenal to return to winning ways is a very short 5/6 (SkyBet).

Now leaving the Premier League, it is the final day of the Championship and who will go up with Reading is the main question. West Ham need to win and I think will @2/5 (SkyBet) at home to Hull and need Southampton lose at home to all ready relegated Coventry City. This is very unlikely and Southampton are @ 1/4 (SkyBet) to win. If it is a draw West Ham need to win by 3 goals or more to go up, so it will be a tense afternoon no doubt.  For the shock Coventry win the odds are a huge 10/1 (SkyBet). I will be leaving this one alone.

Bet of the day: West Brom to beat Aston Villa @11/10 (SkyBet)

                          Norwich to beat Liverpool @11/4 (SkyBet)

Also get on Villa to go down at 5/1 (SkyBet)

Horse Racing:

At Sandown in the 1.30 Songsmith @16/1 (SkyBet) presents an each-way punt. Elsewhere at Sandown I will just be watching especially the 3.45 to see how Twice Over, Sri Putra, Poet and Columbian perform. At Market Rasen there are plenty of small fields so good chance for winners her. Bet of the meeting is Ballyoliver in the 2.10 at 7/2 @(SkyBet). Other then these two I am leaving the Horses alone, as feel better value bets today can be found in the Football and Rugby League.

Rugby League:

Kear senses a shcok

Challenge Cup weekend and last night Featherstone Rovers put on a magnificent performance n their defeat to the mighty Wigan Warriors 32-16. However my bet of this round is that of a lower division side causing a shock. Legendary coach and Challenge Cup upset king John Kear's (left) Batley Bulldogs take on Super League side the London Broncos tomorrow. Now in theory they should not have a chance however at 8/1 (SkyBet) they are a good price. The Broncos' are near the bottom of Super League and have not being playing well, especially away from home. Batley will be incredibly fired up for this one and think it will be a great game. The Broncos' Super League class should tell, as well as superior fitness but I have a feeling that this one could be a shock.

Hopefully I have predicted some winners here. Good luck with any bets you have this week. 

Weekend Tips

This weekend presents another opportunity to back more winners. With a full football fixture list and racing from Newbury and Doncaster today chances are a plenty to pick more winners.

Football:

West Brom to add to Chelsea's misery

Two Saturday Premier League fixtures stick out for me. Blackburn at home to Villa looks worth a gamble. Blackburn are 11-8 (SkyBet) for the home win and I will be taking this. The other game is that of West Brom/Chelsea. A terrific result last week for Roy Hodgson's (Left) West Brom and I think them winning this one is great odds (3-1 with SkyBet) . Despite Chelsea's win last week I am still not convinced by them. This is be a tough one for them. The big match between Arsenal and Liverpool will be close and for me a draw (11-5 SkyBet).

On Sunday, I predict a very tough tyne-wear derby with Newcastle just having another to win (11-10 SkyBet). However the huge game between Spurs and Manchester United will be a draw for me at 12-5 (SkyBet).

Accumulator Wins: Man City, Sheffield United, Cheltenham and Crawley at 3.5-1 (SkyBet) looks good to me.

Bet of the Day: West Brom 3-1 with SkyBet.

Longshot of the day: Three Draws -> Stoke/Norwich, Wigan/Swansea and QPR/Everton

Horse Racing :

Each -Way -> Mad Max in the 3.10 at Newbury (8-1 with SkyBet)

Win -> Back Bob Back in the 4.55 at Newbury (9-2 with SkyBet)

Good luck with your bets this week.