Greyhound racing has been popular in the United Kingdom for decades though most sports fans would agree that dog racing tips lag some way behind horse racing. 

While some of the most famous greyhounds have raced in Britain, it is a well followed sport around the world, particularly in the United States of America and Australia.

Punters looking to bet on greyhounds can find a plethora of information online but nothing quite beats the thrill of dog racing betting live at an official greyhound track, even though the options are plentiful on 888's sports betting pages.

Greyhounds Betting Guide

The ultimate goal for greyhound owners is to win the biggest events on the planet.

In the United Kingdom, the Greyhound Derby fixtures are the target for the best dogs and betting tips on those races are widely available with most bookmakers.

Without further ado, it is time to get down to the best greyhound betting tips for punters here at 888sport.

Remember – always gamble responsibly when betting on greyhounds and be sure to do lots of research when looking at the latest dogs betting odds.

The Great St. Wilfrid is one of Yorkshire’s most famous sprint handicaps and is run over a distance of six furlongs at Ripon racecourse.

The race derives its name from the patron saint of Ripon, St. Wilfrid. In fact the winning owner receives a trophy which depicts St. Wilfrid on horseback.

Ripon has hosted some of the most exciting, prestigious and enjoyable racing in the country for more than 300 years and this is the most valuable race on their calendar. Here at 888sport, we offer free horse racing betting tips on the race each year.

Here are some trends and statistics from the last 10 runnings of the race.

Last 10 Winners & SPs:

• 2019 - Dakota Gold (5/1 fav)
• 2018 – Gunmetal (10/1)
• 2017 – Mattmu (25/1)
• 2016 – Nameitwhatyoulike (16/1)
• 2015 – Don’t Touch (4/1 fav)
• 2014 – Out Do (7/1 fav)
• 2013 – Baccarat (9/2 fav)
• 2012 – Pepper Lane (20/1)
• 2011 – Pepper Lane (11/1)
• 2010 – Damika (18/1)

Age (Win-Place-Runners)

• 3-y-o: 1-1-7
• 4-y-o: 2-8-53
• 5-y-o: 5-6-46
• 6-y-o: 0-6-36
• 7-y-o: 2-5-21
• 8-y-o+: 0-3-18

Five five-year-olds have been successful in the last eight years.  There are five of them in a field of 20 this year.

Only one horse aged nine or older has won since 1992 (Green Dollar) which is not a great statistic for the likeable veteran, Watchable - he is likely to popular in online betting picks.

Weight

Just one horse has carried more than 9st 1lb to victory in the last ten years- that was Dakota Gold last year (9-7). Just two horses (Dakota Gold & Watchable) carry over 9st 1lb this year.

Form

• Ten out of ten winners had run at least three times in the current season.  All the runners this Sunday pass on that score except Deputise and Royal Residence.
• Eight out of the past ten winners had run in the past twenty one days. That may lead you scratch out Dakota Gold, Motagally, Deputise and Abel Handy due to the lack of a recent run.
• Ten out of the last ten winners either ran at York, Newmarket, Goodwood, Haydock or Ripon last time out. The following horses DID NOT do so: Watchable, Motagally, Typhoon Ten, Deputise, Abel Handy, Abate and Thegreatestshowman.
• The 13 horses that DO qualify by having their last run at either York, Newmarket, Goodwood, Haydock or Ripon are: Dakota Gold, Mr Lupton, Kimifive, Golden Apollo, Brian The Snail, Hyperfocus, Staxton, Citron Major, Gunmetal, I Am A Dreamer, George Bowen, Royal Residence, Highly Sprung.
• Six out of the last ten winners had previously won over course and distance. Qualifiers under that trend are:  Dakota Gold, Hyperfocus, Staxton, Citron Major, Gunmetal, I Am A Dreamer and Abate.

Trainer Form

• David O’Meara has trained the winner three times in recent years. He saddles Watchable and Abel Handy this time.
• Richard Fahey has trained the winner once in the last ten years. He is represented by Mr Lupton and George Bowen.
• David Barron has won the race twice in his career and he sends out the 2018 winner Gunmetal to do battle once more.
• Tim Easterby is also a two-time winner of this race and he sends out Golden Apollo, Hyperfocus and Staxton.

Price

Six of the last ten winners of the race have been 11/1 or shorter. Horses that have come from the first five in the betting have had a significant prominence - a popular statistic in UK horse racing tips for the race.

The first five in the betting for information purposes on the evening of Friday 14th August are: Kimifive, Motagally, Dakota Gold, Staxton and Gunmetal.

Draw

1. Drawn 1-10: 6 wins
2. Drawn 11+: 4 wins

It must be noted however that the last two winners have been drawn in stalls 19 and 15.

Horses drawn in a more favourable stall this year, based on the last ten years are: Typhoon Ten, Deputise, Hyperfocus, Citron Major, Gunmetal, I Am A Dreamer, Abel Handy, Royal Residence, Highly Sprung, Thegreatestshowman.

Going off the betting, it is highly likely that the ten year draw trend will be a 50/50 split after this year’s race.

Runner-By-Runner Guide:

Dakota Gold

Won this race last year but is now 8lbs higher and is struggling to find his form this season. 3/5

? The well-backed Dakota Gold takes the Great St Wilfrid field apart! 

? Michael Dods' charge goes one better than this race 12 months ago.pic.twitter.com/XlrpF1HkkG

— Sporting Life (@SportingLife) August 17, 2019

Watchable

Has hit a purple patch of form just recently and was just touched off here in a tight photo finish a couple of runs ago. 4/5

Mr Lupton

Last won in May 2019 and has invariably been finishing nearer to the rear than to the front in his most recent outings. 1/5

Motagally

A rare Hamdan Al Maktoum runner in this race and he won’t just be here for the beautiful scenery. 4/5

Kimifive

In the form of his life at the moment but unfortunately cannot get his head in front. Narrowly touched off in the Stewards’ Cup 4/5

Golden Apollo

Won last year’s Ayr Silver Cup and regularly contests all these major sprint handicaps. Stable and jockey both in top form. 5/5

Well, after plenty of deliberation I think I've narrowed Sunday's Great St Wilfrid down to two - Golden Apollo and Hyperfocus. If somebody could tell the Hornblower that would be great! ?#Ripon

— Steve Mullington (@mulldog) August 14, 2020

Brian The Snail

Running out of his shell this season and should put in another solid performance. 4/5

Typhoon Ten

Done most of his racing on the all-weather but did win on the turf at Windsor last time. 3/5

Deputise

Prolific two-year-old winner on the all-weather but also won a 5f race at Chester. He may struggle in this company. 1/5

Hyperfocus

Runner-up in last year’s consolation race for this but needs to show the same level of form quickly. 3/5

Staxton

Got the better of several of these just ten days ago but he’s never won back-to-back. 4/5

Citron Major

Won here over C&D at the end of July and has the potential to reach the podium. 3/5

Gunmetal

Won this in 2018 and ran a cracker behind Staxton here last time out. 4/5

I Am A Dreamer

Needs to dream of June 20th when he sprang a 22/1 surprise at this track. 2/5

George Bowen

Currently running like a shadow of his former self which hardly inspires confidence. 1/5

Abel Handy

Represents an in form stable and his last two runs at Catterick have been very encouraging. 3/5

Royal Residence

Two visits to Ripon this season have resulted in two sound beatings. 1/5

Abate

Ran poorly at Thirsk last time but before that was having a pretty decent time of things. 3/5

Highly Sprung

Has 11 career wins to his name and was only beaten 4l in the Stewards’ Cup. The betting underestimates him. 3/5

Thegreatestshowman

His ¾l third to Blue Vega a couple of runs ago reads well now and he could go well at the foot of the handicap. 3/5

888 Prediction: Who Wins?

Tim Easterby is popping in the winners left, right and centre at the moment and he is triple handed in this Ripon feature.

On this occasion I will leave out Staxton because he has never doubled up with his victories, thus leaving me with Golden Apollo and Hyperfocus who I think will run big races.

David Allan has all the riding nouse to utilise stall 18, while any repetition of Hyperfocus’ run twelve months ago will see him bang there too. You don't need to browse the expert horse racing tips to realise that.

888sport suggests: Golden Apollo and Hyperfocus (e/w).

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Ripon Racecourse*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 14th August 2020

Reports in Germany claim that Leeds United are one of four clubs to bid for Mainz striker Jean-Paul Boetius this summer.

According to news publication BILD, Boetius’ agent Erkan Alkan has revealed that there are a number of clubs who are considering a move for the 26-year-old.

Leeds will face stiff competition from the likes of Fulham, Fiorentina and Sevilla if they are to sign Boetius in the 2020 summer transfer window.

Boetius enjoyed an impressive 2019/20 campaign, notching four Bundesliga goals and five assists in 28 league games for Mainz.

It is understood that Mainz’s price tag is too high but Leeds could be tempted to match that figure if the club decide that Boetius is the right fit for Marcelo Bielsa’s side.

Leeds have been active in the summer window but Boetius is another Leeds United transfer rumour that could materialise into a genuine signing in the coming weeks.

Journalist Says Batshuayi IS On Leeds’ Radar

Phil Hay is one of the best Leeds United player rumours journalists in the business and he has confirmed that Michy Batshuayi is still a transfer target for the Elland Road club.

Rumours seemed to have fizzled out in recent weeks but Hay has revealed that Bielsa’s side are still considering a bid for the Belgium forward.

“One who’s been mentioned and is definitely of interest is Michy Batshuayi down at Chelsea. Bielsa knows him from Marseille and knows a lot abut his game,” said Hay.

If Leeds are looking at Michy Batshuayi as suggested in Phils podcast what I would say if there is no doubt the kid has talent but there is a lot missing to his game including consistency, Bielsa would need to work his magic on him and improve him #lufc

— Kershaw (@DavidKershaw7) August 14, 2020

“He wouldn’t be somebody who would have to adapt massively to what Bielsa does. Despite the fact that it has never really happened for him at Chelsea, he is only 26.”

While the chance to play first team football on a regular basis will be tempting for Batshuayi, Leeds may struggle to meet his £100,000 per week wage demands.

Batshuayi started just one Premier League game for Chelsea last season, making a total of 15 appearances in all competitions.

Leeds Linked With £91 Million Benfica Star

20-year-old Florentino Luis has been named as a potential transfer target for the likes of AC Milan and Real Betis this summer but Leeds are the latest club to be mentioned as a potential landing spot for the youngster.

The player has a staggering £91 million release clause but Benfica are likely to consider selling the youngster for a much lower transfer fee.

With discussions over a new contract stalling, Luis could be tempted to consider a switch to the Premier League if the price is right.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 14th August 2020

According to reports, Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa is looking to bring Stuttgart forward Nicolas Gonzalez to the club this summer.

With Leeds preparing for a long-awaited return to the Premier League, Bielsa knows just how important shrewd investment is in the transfer window.

Like Bielsa, Gonzalez is Argentinian and the 22-year-old has been linked with a number of clubs across Europe, including Inter Milan and Atalanta.

Multiple sources have claimed that Leeds are contemplating a move for Gonzalez, with one news publication hinting that the Stuttgart man has already looked at the club facilities.

"It seems as though we're looking at Nico Gonzalez quite seriously,” according to the All Stats Aren’t We podcast.

“Allegedly he's been over to Leeds and had a look around the training facilities and the stadium. I suspect he’s the highest player on that list of left-wing positions.”

This latest piece of Leeds United transfer news is certainly interesting, particularly as most of the club’s activity so far this summer has focused on home grown players.

With uncertainty over travel restrictions across Europe, Leeds fans believe that Bielsa must be very interested to consider a move for the Stuttgart attacker.

Leeds Open To Robbie Gotts Loan

A new deal looks imminent for Leeds midfielder Robbie Gotts despite continued interest from the likes of Huddersfield Town, Hull City and Blackpool.

Gotts made two appearances in all competitions for Leeds last season but Bielsa sees the Whites academy graduate as part of his long term plans at Elland Road.

Phil Hay of the Athletic confirmed this latest piece of Leeds United transfer news: “Robbie Gotts will be tied to new terms and, I think, he will find a loan club.

“He’s got an amount of interest in him: Huddersfield, naturally, who have Carlos Corberan as coach now, are keen, but also Hull and Blackpool would like to take him.”

A loan deal for Gotts wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world. The Leeds midfielder can gain some invaluable experience before returning to the club as a more rounded talent.

Leeds Linked With £2 Million Liverpool Defender

According to TeamTalk, Leeds are debating whether to meet Liverpool’s £2 million asking price for defender Yasser Larouci.

The French-born Algerian made two appearances for the club last season but played no part in their 2019/20 Premier League success.

With just one year left on his current contract, Liverpool are looking to cash in on the 19-year-old before he is eligible to depart on a free transfer in 12 months time.

Leeds have been linked with Arsenal defender Rob Holding in recent weeks but wages may be a major issue in that particular deal.
 

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 14th August 2020

Cody Drameh has revealed that he would love to follow in Benjamin Mendy’s footsteps while working under Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa.

Speaking to the club’s official website, the 18-year-old has expressed his desire to take his game to new heights – just as Mendy did under Bielsa’s guidance.

“First and foremost, I want to try and break into the first team and the club has ambition so will see where it goes,” he said.

“Marcelo Bielsa has managed a lot of big, big names, including Argentina’s national team.

“The one I was very interested in was Benjamin Mendy, the way he transformed him and obviously I’m a full back so hopefully he can do the same thing to me as he did to Benjamin. I’m just very excited to work with him.”

Despite not making his senior debut for Fulham before moving to Elland Road, Drameh has set his sights on breaking into the Leeds first team in the 2020/21 campaign.

Leeds fans will be hoping that Drameh can live up to the hype at the club and he could be set for a long and successful future at Elland Road.

Leeds To Tempt Borna Barisic Away From Rangers?

Rangers defender Borna Barisic has impressed since moving to Ibrox as one of Steven Gerrard’s first signings back in 2018.

Previously plying his trade for Osijek, Barisic played a total of 40 games in all competitions for Rangers last season and he has enjoyed a solid start to the 2020/21 campaign.

While Leeds United transfer rumours fuelled hints of a switch, the Daily Record has stated that the player has no plans to depart and Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has confirmed that view.

Leeds are plotting a move for Rangers star Borna Barisic with Marcelo Bielsa in the market for a new left-back. (Football Insider) #Lufc #Rangers pic.twitter.com/l78eRVX7XT

— All Leeds TV (@AllLeedsTV) August 7, 2020

Speaking in his press conference ahead of their clash with St Johnstone, Gerrard said: “Borna’s focused here, he’s signed a long contract.

“He’s really settled, he’s in fantastic form and we’re delighted to have him. Nothing’s come to us in terms of that situation, but it’s no surprise.”

Former Real Madrid Striker Set For Leeds Switch?

Espanyol striker Raul de Tomas has been linked with a potential move to Elland Road this summer though rumours are yet to materialise into anything serious.

The former Real Madrid striker could give Leeds a welcome boost in the final third as the Whites look to strengthen their squad after a 16-year absence from the Premier League.

Find the latest Leeds United transfers news on the 888sport blog - day in, day out.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 13th August 2020

According to the latest Leeds United transfers news report, Nahitan Nandez has been linked with a sensational move to Elland Road this summer.

Having signed for Cagliari last summer, Nandez enjoyed an impressive first season in Serie A and a number of Premier League clubs have been linked with the 24-year-old.

West Ham have shown interest in the midfielder in recent months but Leeds are the latest top flight side to be linked with a move for Nandez ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.

With a €36 million release clause in his contract, Nandez won’t come cheap but he certainly ticks all the right boxes to enjoy a long and successful career in the Premier League.

Leeds are actively looking to make a number of signings ahead of their return to England’s top flight and a talented midfielder will be one of their top priorities.

Gazzetta dello Sport have claimed that the Cagliari midfielder could be deemed surplus to requirements at the club and Leeds are one of the biggest clubs to have shown interest.

Interestingly, Bielsa’s side were linked with Nandez prior to his move to Cagliari so there is a clear link there and he is one to watch in Leeds United transfer rumours.

Leeds Confident Bielsa Will Sign New Deal

While Bielsa is technically out of contract, Leeds are reportedly confident that the Argentine will sign a new deal at the club ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League campaign.

Bielsa has worked wonders since taking over at Elland Road and sources believe that the 65-year-old is close to signing a new deal at the club.

Ex-Leeds midfielder has hinted at a new contract for Bielsa in the coming weeks and Whites fans should be excited at what the future holds.

Whatever happens in the coming weeks, one thing is for sure – Leeds’ football betting odds of remaining in the top flight will be boosted if Bielsa’s contract is sorted before the opening weekend.

Leeds Could Target Lyanco If White Move Fails

With Gaetano Berardi suffering a long term injury and Ben White’s switch hitting a bump in the road, Torino defender Lyanco could be a realistic replacement in the transfer window.

Leeds United are one of the clubs interested in Brazilian defender Lyanco, with Torino wanting €10m for the player [O Jogo] #LUFC pic.twitter.com/OYLj4YryzV

— LUFC transfer updates (@LufcTransfer) August 11, 2020

Leeds are looking to sign a new centre-back ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League campaign and Lyanco could be worth considering for the right price.

Reports claim that Sporting Lisbon failed in their bid to sign the Torino star but Bielsa’s side are in a stronger financial position and could capitalise with a shrewd move.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 13th August 2020

Arsenal defender Rob Holding ticks all the right boxes and could be a suitable target for Leeds United before the end of the summer transfer window.

Holding has gained invaluable Premier League experience during his time at the Emirates Stadium but may be tempted to move to Elland Road in a bid to secure regular first team football.

With Mikel Arteta looking to strengthen Arsenal’s defence ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League campaign, Holding may be deemed surplus to requirements in north London.

As reported here earlier today, Brighton have once again stated that White is not for sale this summer.

The Seagulls have already rejected two bids from Leeds and are unlikely to entertain offers that do not meet their asking price.

In Holding, Leeds could potentially sign a proven Premier League defender and his £25,000 a week wage demands are below even the average Championship salary.

As Leeds United player rumours go, Holding would be a pretty big catch and he would be a competent replacement for White, who spent the last two years on loan at Elland Road.

Ian Poveda Set For Leeds Promotion?

Leeds have been linked with a move for Ryan Fraser but the former Bournemouth winger’s wage demands may price the Whites out of the market.

The Scotland star rejected a £67,000 per week contract with Bournemouth and he is likely to ask for £100,000 per week ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League campaign.

Got a feeling Ian Poveda could be some player for Leeds next season? #LUFC pic.twitter.com/gJj79KNuyw

— Connor Mahoney! LUFC (C) ? (@ConnorMOT92) July 29, 2020

Instead, it might be wise for Bielsa to consider promoting Poveda to the starting line-up on a more frequent basis.

Having started just one game for Leeds in 2019/20, Poveda wasn’t given a fair opportunity last season and he could be Bielsa’s wildcard at the top level.

Leeds Failed In Bid To Sign Jonathan David

With Patrick Bamford and Tyler Roberts combining for 20 Championship goals last season, Leeds were always going to look for cover upfront ahead of their return to the Premier League.

The Whites were linked with David but the 20-year-old will join Lille instead after the French side agreed a £30 million deal with Gent.

A striker remains a top priority for Bielsa ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League season and there will be plenty of Leeds United transfer news rumours before the window shuts.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 12th August 2020

Leeds United are one of a host of Premier League clubs weighing up a move for Ryan Fraser ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.

The former AFC Bournemouth winger was released by the club earlier this summer and the likes of Fulham, West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal have been linked with the 26-year-old.

Fraser would certainly bolster Leeds’ attacking threat and he would bring invaluable top flight experience to a squad that is currently lacking Premier League nous.

While Fraser’s lucrative wage demands may be a bit of an issue, Leeds may be willing to bite the bullet given the fact that the Scot is available on a free transfer.

One of Fraser’s best traits is his work rate and that energy and enthusiasm would certainly suit Marcelo Bielsa’s style of play.

He would arguably walk straight into the Leeds starting line-up and this is a Leeds United transfer rumour that will get Whites fans excited.

Brighton Confirm Ben White Is Not For Sale

Brighton & Hove Albion have once again reiterated that defender Ben White is not for sale this summer.

According to reports, the Seagulls have already rejected two bids from Leeds and Brighton have made it clear that White is part of their long-term plans at the Amex Stadium.

Two bids turned down by Brighton for Ben White according to Sky Sports, however he’s also rejected two contract offers.

BELIEVE ? #lufc pic.twitter.com/jBTqkCeRWe

— Right In The Gary Kellys ? (@RITGK) August 8, 2020

This latest Leeds transfers news comes as a bitter blow to the club, particularly after White was so central to their Championship success last season.

Anyone looking at 888 tips regarding Leeds United player rumours may wish to give up the ghost now – barring a lucrative bid or if the 22-year-old submits a transfer request.

Jeff Hendrick Is An Interesting Free Agent

Having rejected a new deal at Burnley, Republic of Ireland midfielder Jeff Hendrick decided to walk away from Turf Moor at the end of the 2019/20 Premier League season.

Even the most optimistic 888 prediction follower would’ve said that was a foolish move but he could reap rewards with a move to Leeds United in the summer transfer window.

Hendrick knows what it takes to survive in the Premier League and he is a reliable option in the middle of the pitch.

With over 50 international caps on his resume, Hendrick could swing the balance of football betting tips in favour of Leeds should he make the switch to Elland Road.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 12th August 2020

Divock Origi could be the player to solve Leeds United’s attacking troubles, according to former England striker Kevin Phillips.

The Liverpool forward has scored a number of important goals since moving to Anfield but has found himself playing second fiddle to Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

Origi scored the winner in the 2018/19 Champions League final but the Belgium forward has struggled to break into the Liverpool starting line-up on a regular basis.

With that in mind, Jurgen Klopp could be tempted to part ways with the 25-year-old ahead of the upcoming campaign.

I’d take origi at Leeds. Definitely.

— Dom Brady (@Bradylicious_) August 7, 2020

Phillips concedes that Origi might not want to leave Liverpool for a team fighting to avoid relegation next season but suggests that playing first team football may tempt the Belgian to consider a switch.

“He has won the Champions League and the Premier League and now he might just want to go and play football”, he said.

“When you go to somewhere like Villa or Leeds from Liverpool you expect to be playing virtually every game. That might be in the player’s thoughts.”

While a popular figure with Liverpool fans, Origi started just 13 matches in all competitions last season and an Elland Road switch could benefit all parties.

He may feature in Premier League predictions on a more regular basis if he joins Leeds in the coming weeks...

Milad Mohammadi Looks Like A Real Prospect

Stuart Dallas was superb at left-back last season but the latest Leeds United transfers news is suggesting that the club are eyeing up a move for 26-year-old Milad Mohammadi.

The KAA Gent defender was named in the Jupiler Pro League’s Team of the Season after an incredible 2019/20 campaign and he has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs.

Mohammadi is a regular starter for the Iran national team and appeared at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

While he may not swing the balance of power when it comes to 888 tips, he could be a key figure for Leeds should he move to Elland Road this summer.

Matty Cash: Good Enough For Premier League?

Nottingham Forest star Matty Cash has been linked with a number of clubs across Europe, including Leeds United, Aston Villa and AC Milan.

Sheffield United have tabled a bid of £10m for Nottingham Forest’s Matty Cash. Leeds, Aston Villa and Milan are also interested [Sheffield Star] #LUFC pic.twitter.com/rswZk3YIlB

— LUFC transfer updates (@LufcTransfer) August 11, 2020

The Sheffield Star are reporting that Sheffield United have made a £10 million bid for the 23-year-old but that is shy of Forest’s £15 million valuation.

One of the biggest Leeds United transfer rumours of the day, Cash would certainly bolster Leeds in the full-back area – and he is particularly strong going forward which is an added bonus.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*

FIRST PUBLISHED: 11th August 2020

The defender position is one of the toughest in football.

You can go from hero to zero in a split second and the Premier League is one of the hardest leagues in the world for defensive players.

Football betting odds can change in the blink of an eye because of defenders; whether that is down to a last-ditch tackle or thunderous header from a set piece.

Without a shadow of a doubt, the best defenders are invaluable to success at the highest level.

Best Premier League Defenders - 2021:

• Joe Gomez

• Toby Alderweireld

• Harry Maguire

• Ricardo Pereira

• Caglar Soyuncu

• Aaron Wan-Bissaka

• Andrew Robertson

• Aymeric Laporte

• Trent Alexander-Arnold

• Virgil van Dijk

Some of the greatest ever defenders have made a living in England’s top flight.

The likes of Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and John Terry are amongst the best of all-time and there are one or two current stars who could enter that discussion.

Without further ado, it is time to look at the top 10 defenders in the Premier League.

You don’t have to be a football betting tips expert to name a certain Dutchman on the list but a couple of these names may surprise you…

Toby Alderweireld

Alderweireld has ranked as one of the best Premier League defenders for the last few years and the Belgium defender continues to hold his own in this esteemed company.

While Tottenham weren’t quite as reliable last season as they have been in other seasons, Alderweireld remains the one standout performer at the heart of the defence.

The former Atletico Madrid man is your stereotypical Jose Mourinho defender and he is likely to be one of the first names on the teamsheet during the Portuguese’s reign.

You don’t need to look at Premier League predictions to determine that Alderweireld isn’t a top five centre-back anymore but he is well worth a spot in the top 10 rankings.

Harry Maguire

While he certainly has his critics, Maguire deserves a spot on this list. In terms of leadership qualities and being comfortable on the ball, he is up there with the best of them.

The Manchester United captain has yet to fully justify his £80 million price tag but Maguire has certainly helped to steady the ship at Old Trafford this season.

The Red Devils are shorter in the outright winner odds than at this stage last season and that is largely down to Maguire’s impact and influence at the back.

With the right centre-back partner, Maguire could take his game to the next level in 2020/21. Watch this space…

Caglar Soyuncu

Another potential surprise inclusion on this list, Soyuncu has taken to the Premier League like a duck to water since joining Leicester City back in 2018.

The Turkey star has flourished since taking over from Maguire and many Leicester fans agree that Soyuncu is actually a more reliable centre-back option.

While the Foxes narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification, Soyuncu can help Brendan Rodgers’ side challenge again in 2020/21 and they are worth a look in top four betting odds.

Linked with Barcelona in the summer transfer window, Soyuncu’s stock is rising but it looks like he will stay at Leicester for the time being.

Aymeric Laporte

The only Manchester City player on this best defenders rankings list, Laporte is an exceptional talent when fully fit. Without the Frenchman, City would be in real trouble.

Following in the footsteps of Vincent Kompany was never going to be easy but Laporte has thrived as City’s main man in defence. On his day, he is just as important as Van Dijk.

Pep Guardiola is looking to sign a top class defender to play alongside Laporte but there is no doubt that the Frenchman will remain as City’s defensive leader.

Fingers crossed Laporte can stay injury-free for the entire 2020/21 Premier League season and we could see the Manchester City man at his brilliant best.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*