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.
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.
— 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*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
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.
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*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
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.
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] #LUFCpic.twitter.com/rswZk3YIlB
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*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
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.
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…
Joe Gomez
Gomez’s inclusion may raise a few eyebrows but it is no more than he deserves after an incredible 2019/20 campaign.
Sneaking into our top Premier League defender rankings, Gomez made the centre-back spot next to Van Dijk his own last season and he is a pivotal figure for Liverpool.
Early Premier League Odds odds have Manchester City as favourites to win the title this campaign but Gomez can help Liverpool to retain their crown.
Liverpool fans have praised Gomez for his improvement over the last 12 months and it would be a huge surprise if Jurgen Klopp breaks up the Gomez-Van Dijk partnership going forward.
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.
Photo credit: Rui Vieira / AP Photo
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…
Ricardo Pereira
The first of two Leicester players, Pereira was a revelation in the 2019/20 Premier League campaign. With three goals in 27 games, he is just as important going forward as he is defensively.
Football fans across the country have claimed that Pereira is the most underrated player in English football and you could make a viable argument for that view.
Pereira missed the end of last season through injury and his absence was clear for all to see as Leicester dropped out of the top four.
With the Foxes full-back nearing full fitness, Pereira can shine at the King Power Stadium this season and he is one to watch in 888 tips ahead of Leicester matches.
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.
Photo credit: Leila Coker / AP Photo
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.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
A huge hit since moving to Old Trafford, Wan-Bissaka is widely regarded as the Premier League’s top right-back when it comes to defending.
Admittedly, he could offer more going forward but purists would argue that Wan-Bissaka’s job is to defend and he does that exceptionally well.
Without a shadow of a doubt, Wan-Bissaka has given Manchester United a reliable option at the position and his impact and influence has been clear for all to see.
Wan-Bissaka is good enough to start for England but unfortunately for him, he is up against Alexander-Arnold. However, he is a close second in the England right-back stakes.
Andrew Robertson
Quite possibly the top left back in world football, Robertson has played a pivotal role for Liverpool since joining the club from Hull City in 2017.
The Scotland international is arguably the most consistent player in this Liverpool side – he rarely has a bad game and he always gives 110%.
Robertson was an absolute shoo-in to feature in our 888sport Team of the Season and the Liverpool faithful love his attitude, both on and off the pitch.
While the Reds have moved to sign Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos, Robertson’s position is under no immediate threat and he can continue to shine week in, week out.
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.
Photo credit: Rui Vieira / AP Photo
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.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Astute going forward and reliable defensively, Alexander-Arnold is a fantastic footballer. A real fan favourite at Anfield, the England star is now one of the top full-backs in world football.
He ticks all the right boxes to enjoy a long and successful career at the highest level and he will have a positive impact on online betting odds for years to come.
The Liverpool right-back notched four goals and 13 assists last season – an impressive return for a midfielder let alone a defender.
Something of a set-piece specialist, Alexander-Arnold is clear as the top right-back in English football and he is a player to watch as Liverpool bid to retain the Premier League title.
Virgil van Dijk
The undisputed best centre-back in the Premier League, Van Dijk has been key to Liverpool’s success in recent years.
The Netherlands star was tipped for the 2019 Ballon d’Or but had to settle for second place – though he will almost certainly go close again next year.
An absolute shoo-in for our 888 sport prediction Team of the Season for 2019/20, Van Dijk is the complete package and many believe he is the best defender in Premier League history.
While that may be a little far fetched at this stage of his career, Van Dijk certainly ranks top of the current Premier League defenders list.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
The Leeds United transfer news juggernaut just keeps on rolling with the club confirming two new signings on Monday evening.
Jack Harrison will remain at Elland Road on a season-long loan from Manchester City for the third year in a row, having played for Leeds in 2018/19 and 2019/20.
However, it is the deal for 18-year-old Joe Gelhardt that has raised eyebrows ahead of Leeds’ return to the Premier League. He won't change any 888 sport prediction odds regarding relegation though...
✍️ #LUFC are delighted to announce the signing of Joe Gelhardt from Wigan Athletic on a four-year deal
The former Wigan Athletic striker has joined the club on a four-year deal and his acquisition is another sign that Leeds are planning for a long and successful future.
Gelhardt made 18 appearances in the Championship last season, notching one goal but he is still learning his trade and could thrive at Elland Road.
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa knows how to get the most out of Harrison and we could see Gelhardt take his game to the next level under the Argentine’s leadership.
Leeds United Transfers News: Could Edouard Join Leeds This Summer?
According to reports, Leeds have shown interest in signing talented Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League campaign.
One of the biggest Leeds United player rumours so far this summer, Edouard has hit the ground running in the early stages of the Scottish Premiership campaign and he could be an invaluable asset for Leeds on their return to the top flight.
Patrick Bamford scored just 16 goals in 47 games last season while Eddie Nketjah and Jean-Kevin Augustin scored a combined five goals. If Leeds want to boost their Premier League betting relegation odds, a signing of Edouard's calibre is a must.
With comparisons to Leeds United legend Mark Viduka, Edouard could be a huge hit at Elland Road and his goal scoring record speaks for itself.
According to The Sunday Mirror, Leeds will have to meet Celtic’s £20 million valuation in order to tempt the Scottish Premiership champions to sell.
The Frenchman notched an impressive 27 goals in 45 appearances for Celtic last season, while also recording an incredible 19 assists as well.
With Edouard directly involved in an average of over a goal a game, he ticks all the right boxes to succeed in the Premier League and fans will be hoping that this is an accurate Leeds United transfer rumour.
Cody Drameh Linked With Shock Leeds Move
Last but not least, Leeds United transfer news sources have also linked Cody Drameh with a move to the Championship winners.
Entering the final year of his contract, Drameh has expressed a desire to move but Fulham are keen to negotiate a new deal to keep the youngster at Craven Cottage.
Follow the latest Leeds United transfers news in the coming days for more updates on the Drameh situation, as well as other Leeds United player rumours.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
The Europa League final has changed over the years. Up until the late 1990s, it was a two-legged affair and the competition, of course, has experienced an overhaul from the UEFA Cup to the Europa League.
Europa League betting is heating up as this year’s final rounds get underway. Two English clubs are still in with a shot of winning it and following in the footsteps of the victors in our list of the 10 greatest Europa League finals.
Travelling through the decades, from extra time crackers to last-minute winners, these are the top Europa League (and UEFA Cup) finals…
Liverpool 5-4 Deportivo Alaves
Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion hosted the 2001 UEFA Cup final. It was Liverpool’s third final appearance in the competition. They faced a Deportivo Alaves side without the same pedigree, but who had seen off Inter Milan earlier in the competition.
Liverpool were pursuing a treble after lifting the League and FA Cups. When Markus Babbel and Steven Gerrard put them two up inside 17 minutes, it looked like a comfortable evening in Germany for Gerard Houllier’s side. That quickly changed.
Alaves scored in the 26th minute, and even though Gary McCallister converted a penalty before half-time, the game was far from settled.
Javi Moreno tied it up with a quick brace. Robbie Fowler put Liverpool ahead in the 70th, before a dramatic Jordi Cruyff equaliser late on.
Alaves had two players sent off in extra time before a golden own goal handed Liverpool their third trophy of the season.
Sevilla 3-2 Dnipro
Sevilla faced a difficult path to the Europa League final in 2014-15. They made their way through the knockout rounds to meet Dnipro in the final, who had eliminated both Ajax and Napoli already in the competition.
Goals flew in, with Nikola Kalinic giving the Europa League tips underdogs an early lead. A goal from Ruslan Rotan on the stroke of half-time made it 2-2 at the break, and Sevilla took charge in the second half.
Carlos Bacca scored his second of the match in the 73rd minute to secure yet another Europa League triumph for the Andalusian side.
Porto 3-2 Celtic
Around 80,000 Celtic fans travelled to Seville for the 2003 UEFA Cup final. No Portuguese or Scottish team had won the tournament before this match, and it was Jose Mourinho’s Porto who came out on top.
Derlei scored in first half added time, triggering a thrilling few minutes at the start of the second half. It was nil-nil in the 44th minute and 2-2 by the 58th.
Derlei was the eventual difference maker, netting in the 115th minute to win Porto’s first European trophy since 1987.
Napoli 5-4 Stuttgart (agg)
The San Paolo was bouncing for the first leg. Football betting tips expected Diego Maradona’s Napoli to get the better of Stuttgart.
The visitors took the lead in the first half, and the Serie A club had to wait until the final quarter of the match to get back into it, a Maradona penalty and a late goal from Careca secured a 2-1 win.
The second leg was a cracker. Alemao gave Napoli the lead, but Jurgen Klinsmann soon equalised.
Napoli took charge, making it 2-1 before the interval, and Careca put them 3-1 up, but Stuttgart made a late push, scoring twice in the last 20 minutes.
Unfortunately for the Bundesliga club, it wasn’t enough and Napoli ran out 5-4 winners on aggregate.
All four of the 1979-1980 UEFA Cup semi-finalists were German clubs. Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Monchengladbach overcame their Bundesliga rivals in the last four to book their places in the final.
The tie started at Bokelbergstadion in front of 25,000, and a late goal from Gladbach skipper Christian Kulik saw the hosts claim a 3-2 victory. Switching to Frankfurt for the second leg, the tie became cagier.
A late goal from Fred Schaub put Frankfurt ahead. The majority of the 59,000 fans were crossing their fingers for the final 10 minutes as Friedel Rausch’s side held on to win the competition on away goals.
Ipswich Town 5-4 AZ Alkmaar (agg)
It was a momentous occasion when Ipswich and AZ Alkmaar met in the 1981 UEFA Cup final. Both were appearing in their first European final, having seen off Koln and FC Sochaux respectively in the semis.
The tie began at Portman Road. Ipswich were a wounded squad, players carrying injuries and running through pain to get on the pitch for the final.
Their grit paid off with a 3-0 victory in front of their home crowd – most European football expert picks would have thought the tie was over.
When Ipswich took the lead four minutes into the second leg they looked comfortable.
That changed when AZ were 2-1 up 20 minutes later. It was 3-2 by half-time, and Jos Jonker’s 73rd minute goal made it an uncomfortable finish for Ipswich.
Chelsea 4-1 Arsenal
It’s not often two teams from the same nation meet in a European final. It’s rarer still that two teams from the same city meet in those circumstances.
There was narrative aplenty. It was Eden Hazard’s last match for the club, Olivier Giroud matched up with his former team, Unai Emery had a proud Europa League record to preserve, Arsenal could qualify for the Champions League.
After a so-so first half, Chelsea ran riot. There was no final magic for a dysfunctional Arsenal, and Maurizio Sarri finally got his hands on a trophy.
Atletico Madrid 2-1 Fulham
Fulham’s route to the 2010 final, and the win over Juventus in particular, was spectacular. No online football betting gave them a hope of going so far.
Facing an Atletico side featuring Diego Forlan and a young Sergio Aguero, Roy Hodgson’s team put in a great performance, forcing extra time.
Unfortunately, fatigue got the better of them, and Aguero and Forlan linked up for a winner in the 116th minute.
Sevilla 2-2 Espanyol
There were three Spanish sides in the last four in 2007. Sevilla saw off Osasuna, while Espanyol got the better of Werder Bremen. The two met up in Glasgow for the final.
After first half goals from Albert Riera and Adriano, the sides were inseparable. Extra time beckoned, but even then, they could not be split after goals from Jonatas and Frederic Kanoute.
Sevilla won the competition for the second time in two seasons thanks to a 3-1 penalty shootout victory.
Chelsea 2-1 Benfica
Chelsea became the first team ever to hold the Europa League and Champions League simultaneously in 2013. Their defence of the big one had gone badly, seeing them knocked into the Europa League in the group stage.
The final was uneventful for the first 45. It came alive in the second half. Fernando Torres hustled his way to score the opener on the hour, before a Cesar Azpilicueta handball allowed Oscar Cardozo to equalise from the spot.
With the match seemingly heading for extra time, Chelsea had a corner.
Like in Munich 12 months before, Mata swung it in. Branislav Ivanovic leapt highest at the back post and his looping header into the far corner won it for Chelsea in added time.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Frank Augstein / AP Photo*
Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.
He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.
Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.
Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.
Some are picturesque, some are renowned for their hostile welcoming of opponents. Picking the top 10 cricket stadia in the world requires a mix of criteria.
All of these grounds have unique characteristics to be considered in cricket betting tips.
Greatest Cricket Grounds:
Lord's
MCG
Eden Gardens
Galle
Newlands
Edgbaston
Basin Reserve
The Wanderers
The Gabba
Kensington Oval
Many have been home to historic moments in the game; World Cup finals, Ashes victories, record-breaking knocks.
Narrowing it down to 10 wasn’t easy. There could be a long list of honourable mentions. Here are the ones that made the cut, starting with the Home of Cricket…
Lord’s
There are grounds that have benefited and suffered from modernisation to come.
Lord’s is about the past, the Long Room, the majestic pavilion and all the matches that have gone before. The first-known match at Lord’s took place in 1814.
Many things can be said about the dos and don’ts at Lord’s, and it can be pretentious, but there’s no denying it’s a wonderful place, particularly for a Test.
MCG
The Boxing Day Test at the MCG, with almost 100,000 in attendance, should be near the top of any cricket fan’s bucket list.
The sheer size of the ground is stunning, and unsurprisingly, it generates quite an atmosphere.
Bay 13 has a well-deserved reputation. The ‘G’ is not the nicest place for visiting teams, but like playing at Lord’s, it is a momentous occasion for any cricketer to play at a ground that has hosted cricket matches for over 150 years.
Eden Gardens
A 66,000-strong crowd at Eden Gardens is the loudest cricket gets. The base level of noise is ear-piercing. When there’s a moment of controversy or excitement, players can barely communicate.
World Cup finals, that VVS Laxman-inspired win, and big IPL matches. Eden Gardens has seen it all.
The home crowd is always a betting online factor to consider at Eden Gardens.
Galle
Galle International Stadium had to be rebuilt following the 2004 tsunami. The ground kept everything that made it so beautiful.
The backdrop of a 16th-century fort, complete with clock tower, is incomparable in international cricket.
The crowds are more party than cauldron and are significantly bolstered by an enthusiastic Barmy Army when England are touring.
Newlands
Not every angle of Newlands is perfect, but the trademark shot with Table Mountain in the background is as good as it gets.
It’s no surprise that England fans flock to Cape Town for the Newlands Test every few years.
Like every ground, the grass banks have gradually been replaced with less attractive seating. That is only a minor downside to a ground that has been in existence since the late-1880s.
Edgbaston
Not the first that comes to mind when thinking of the best cricket grounds, Warwickshire’s Edgbaston has been developed as well as any.
The capacity has increased (it’s the second-biggest ground in England), but without making it a dull, concrete bowl.
England get their best support in Birmingham. It has been home to T20 Finals Day, and the Hollies Stand is a party atmosphere not seen at every ground in the UK.
Edgbaston cannot be mentioned here without a nod towards the 2005 Ashes Test and Brian Lara’s 501 not out.
Basin Reserve
Where others in this top 10 are about a vibrant or hostile crowd, New Zealand’s Basin Reserve is an altogether more relaxed cricketing experience.
It’s no surprise that the Kiwi crowd is much friendlier than their Australian counterparts.
Located at the foot of Mount Victoria and with a capacity just north of 11,000, the Basin Reserve is like a gorgeous oversized club ground compared to the towering stands elsewhere.
The Wanderers
Another that brings atmosphere over aesthetics, The Wanderers in Johannesburg is commonly known as The Bullring for its circular shape and ground-shaking atmosphere.
Just ask Kevin Pietersen what it’s like walking out to bat in front of a full house.
Australia and South Africa’s extraordinary, record-breaking ODI took place in Johannesburg, as did Michael Atherton’s epic 10-hour knock.
A newer ground than most, having been built in the 1950s, The Wanderers’ still has its fair share of history.
The Gabba
Far from the prettiest cricket ground in the world, The Gabba is renowned as a fortress for the Australians.
They haven’t lost a Test in Brisbane since 1988, and as the traditional Ashes opener, it carries bad memories for England fans.
Any team that visits gets an almighty welcome from the locals, but it’s particularly ferocious on that first morning of the first Ashes Test.
For England players who have never played an away Ashes series before, The Gabbatoir is quite an introduction.
Kensington Oval
The Kensington Oval isn’t the ground it once was, yet it remains an iconic venue for West Indian cricket.
Investment was thrown into Caribbean stadia for the World Cup earlier this century, and while it was well-meaning, it snatched some charm.
Built in 1882, the Bridgetown ground hosted Australia’s win over Sri Lanka in the 2007 World Cup final. Its 28,000 capacity is far from the biggest on this list, but when it gets full, it can be as atmospheric as anywhere on the planet.
Check out 888sport’s cricket betting for the latest West Indies odds.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Alastair Grant / AP Photo*
Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.
He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.
Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.
Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.
Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi could be set for a shock move to Leeds United ahead of their return to the Premier League.
One of the hottest Leeds transfer rumours this summer, the Belgium forward looks set to leave Chelsea after a disappointing campaign at Stamford Bridge.
According to Get French Football News, Batshuayi’s agent has reached out to Leeds to open negotiations with his client ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League season.
A wave of Leeds transfers are expected this summer ahead of their return to England’s top flight and Batshuayi, valued at around £25 million, could do a sterling job at Elland Road.
With 13 goals in 59 Premier League matches, Batshuayi has struggled at the highest level thus far but could be well suited to Marcelo Bielsa’s style of football.
With loan spells at Borussia Dortmund, Valencia and Crystal Palace under his belt, Batshuayi has gained invaluable experience across Europe and could be a real asset for Leeds in their bid to avoid relegation.
Potential Leeds Transfers: Edinson Cavani
It would be some scalp if Leeds could pull off a shock move for Uruguay international Edinson Cavani.
Released by Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the 2019/20 season, Cavani is one of Europe’s most prolific goal scorers and he could shine at Elland Road.
Cavani would undoubtedly be one of the biggest Leeds transfers of all-time and the Elland Road faithful will be hoping that the club can get a deal over the line.
The 33-year-old has been linked with Atletico Madrid and Benfica in recent months but the Uruguay international is yet to sign a contract ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
A switch to the Premier League would do Cavani’s legacy no harm whatsoever, having thrived in Serie A and Ligue 1 in recent years.
The Edinson Cavani transfer link to Leeds United should be enough to remind us that their return to the Premier League is a big deal. pic.twitter.com/tmIknX3ycs
— Kayishema Tity Thierry (@TityThiery_velo) July 31, 2020
Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani has spoken publicly about potentially signing Cavani ahead of the upcoming season – fuelling the Leeds transfers hype band wagon.
Radrizzani said: “In addition to his quality, Cavani could contribute with his physicality and adapt here, but I’ve never talked about him with the coach.
“Having said that, we’ve certainly thought about him and we’ll see, given he’s still available on a free transfer.”
Cavani has scored 353 goals in 586 club appearances throughout his career, while notching an impressive 50 goals in 116 matches for Uruguay.
With 16 major trophies to his name, Cavani knows what it takes to win at the highest level and he could be key to Leeds’ hopes of staying in the Premier League next season.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Thibault Camus / AP Photo*
Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.
He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.
As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible.
Depending on when their deals began, some of the highest paid players in the NBA are on identical salaries for the 2019-20 season.
The 10 highest paid players are listed below - they have had varying degrees of impact on 888 betting in 2019-20…
Steph Curry
A hand injury meant Steph Curry spent much of the regular season on the sidelines.
After five straight NBA Finals appearances, the Golden State Warriors fell to the worst record in the NBA. With a high draft pick to come, they will be back among the top NBA betting teams again in 2020-21.
Curry’s salary is the greatest in the league, but it’s one of four big contracts on the Warriors’ roster.
Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson will all be taking home significant money for the foreseeable future, too.
Chris Paul
Seen as a near-untradeable contract until he was actually traded last offseason, Chris Paul has been a man on a mission in 2019-20.
Paul delivered in crunch time throughout the season, taking the Oklahoma City Thunder comfortably into a playoff spot.
Depending on the direction the Thunder go in, Paul could be on the move again this offseason. His performances alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and co. have shown he’s far from finished.
The two remaining years on this deal could yet put potential trade partners off, however.
Russell Westbrook
The Houston Rockets swapped Paul’s contract for Russell Westbrook’s.
Westbrook has an extra season left on his deal, and though they are both point guards, the two future Hall of Famers play the position in very different ways. Houston have had to change their game as a result.
Westbrook came into his own in the weeks before the hiatus. The Rockets’ ultra-small lineups space the floor more than he’s ever had before.
Westbrook’s limitations are well known, but even in his thirties, his sheer athleticism is thrilling.
James Harden
A perennial MVP candidate, James Harden continues to post historic scoring numbers.
Changing backcourt partner has meant some adaptation for Harden, though his usage rate remains above 36% and he once again leads the league in scoring by a distance.
Houston have been in win-now mode for several years. With Harden and Westbrook’s contracts, there will be difficult years to come, and they are nearing the now-or-never point.
Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant’s fitness will be crucial for anyone looking to bet on basketball next season.
The Brooklyn Nets, with Durant and Kyrie Irving, are a fascinating team. The front office has some big decisions to make this offseason. Prior to his injury, Durant was in the reckoning to be considered the best player in the NBA.
Whether he deserved that title or not, there’s no question that the former Seattle Supersonic has been a top five player for the best part of a decade.
John Wall
John Wall hasn’t played in an NBA game since Boxing Day 2018. The Washington Wizards, carrying Wall’s contract, have been stuck as a result.
It has helped Bradley Beal’s development, but Washington have been in mid-lottery nothingness for a couple seasons.
The level Wall reaches when he returns to the court will determine where the Wizards are heading.
A Beal trade, a lengthy rebuild, is possible, though it would be a lot of fun to see the All-NBA version of Wall alongside peak Beal.
LeBron James
One of the all-time leaders in NBA All-Star appearances, LeBron James’ contract is not befitting of his status in the game.
James’ career moves have not been focused on maximum salary – he could be earning much more than this.
LeBron has an array of business interests. He makes plenty more money aside from his NBA wage.
James joined the Lakers to pursue a championship. With Anthony Davis alongside him, he’s in position to do that in the Orlando bubble.
Kyle Lowry
Finally getting the praise he deserves, Kyle Lowry is a reigning NBA champion and one of the best paid players in the league.
The Toronto Raptors point guard was in the final year of a three-year, $100 million contract, but it was extended for another season back in October.
The Raps have been an uplifting tale this season. Lowry is the heart of this team, a team that has been every bit as impressive despite the departures of Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.
He’s not the highest profile name on this list, but the Raptors have got good value for that contract.
Blake Griffin
The most likely contract on this list to be traded this offseason, Blake Griffin’s future is uncertain once again as the Detroit Pistons begin a rebuild.
Griffin was a stud in 2018-19, but injuries resurfaced this year. He played just 18 games as the Pistons fell to a dismal 20-46 before the season was suspended.
Traded by the Clippers to become the Pistons’ star man, Griffin’s has evolved from a dunking machine in his early years in the NBA to a point forward.
He’s developed range, a serviceable three-point shot, and carried Detroit to the playoffs last season. Who will he be playing for when the 2020-21 campaign begins?
Paul George
Many basketball betting tips favoured the Los Angeles Clippers to win the title on the back of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard’s arrivals last summer.
George’s first year in LA has been interrupted by load management and niggling injury, but the wing duo have shown flashes of what they can do together.
George is a six-time All-Star and one of the very best defenders in the league at his position.
He might not be good enough to be the number one guy on a title contender, but he’s a special second option.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Jeff Chiu / AP Photo*
Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.
He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.
Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.
Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.
Saturday should have seen the Shergar Cup take place at Ascot but because of the current restrictions on international travel, the event was called off some time ago.
But all is not lost as there is still a quite competitive card taking place at the Berkshire venue on Saturday afternoon.
Terrestrial TV coverage in the UK features top races from Ascot, Newmarket and Haydock, so let’s take a whistle-stop tour through all of those races in order to identify a winner or two.
1.50 Ascot – Class 2 Handicap (6f)
Richard Hannon’s Theotherside is certainly the form horse in this field of ten having not finished out of the top three places in all of her races this season, and having won at Newmarket just a fortnight ago.
The three-year-old filly is clearly in great heart and she is going to take some stopping in this horse racing betting contest.
Chil Chil for the King Power ownership is sure to have her supporters and she has been running well all season herself.
Andrew Balding and Oisin Murphy are a formidable winning team when they pair up and it will be hard to see her finishing out of the frame.
2.05 Haydock – Dick Hern Stakes (1m)
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Veracious has yet to be seen on a racetrack this season but her reputation precedes her and she is an odds-on shot with the majority of bookmakers.
The 2019 Falmouth winner was a model of consistency last season and contested all the top races. With all due respect to the others in the race, she towers head and shoulders above them in terms of her form figures.
Farzeen was blown away by Lady Bowthorpe at Ascot last time out, but that was a very hotly contested race and she can only improve from the experience.
2.25 Ascot – Celebration Handicap (1m)
At first glance, Shelir’s form figures this season look like nothing to write home about but amongst them are a series of good handicap efforts and interestingly David O’Meara has swerved an engagement at Haydock in favour of this race instead.
O’Meara teams up with his ace jockey Danny Tudhope here and off an attractive weight, Shelir looks like what they call “a handicap snip”.
Roger Varian is sure to have Game Player fit and raring to go on his seasonal debut and most of his Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum-owned runners have generally performed well first time up.
Jalaad presents the all-powerful Godolphin Stud and the Kodiac gelding could quite easily follow up on his gutsy York victory last time.
2.40 Haydock – Rose Of Lancaster Stakes (1m 2f)
The John Gosden-trained Global Giant can claim top honours and take the prestigious Rose Of Lancaster Stakes at the Merseyside track.
The five-year-old son of Shamardal landed the Listed Steventon Stakes at Newbury last time out to make it two wins from three starts since making the transfer from Ed Dunlop’s yard to that of John Gosden.
One of our expert horse racing tips this weekend, Global Giant is clearly a horse on an upward curve and Gosden’s main objective is to run him in the Bahrain International Trophy later in the year.
In the meantime Gosden and Dettori will try and pick up some of the swag on offer at Haydock Park along the way.
The Roger Charlton-trained Extra Elusive warrants plenty of respect under a “hungry for winners” Hollie Doyle, while Sir Michael Stoute’s Zaaki is no back number either.
3.00 Ascot - Millionaire Handicap (2m)
The starting point for picking out winners in these distance handicaps on the Flat tends to be siding with the horses that have actually run over such a journey, and secondly checking out whether they are a course and distance winner.
Three horses have run over the two mile test, namely Eddystone Rock, Charlie D and Mondain, but only the first named horse has actually completed such a race at this track.
John Best’s eight-year-old was last seen finishing well down the pack at Royal Ascot but he shouldn’t be written off on the back of that run and could quite easily bounce back to something like his superb showing at York last August.
8 victories from 62 career starts is no mean feat and Eddystone Rock is certainly worth an each-way poke in this.
Charlie D won two distance races like this last August, while Mondain is very attractively weighted near the bottom of the handicap under top jockey Andrea Atzeni.
3.20 Newmarket – Sweet Solera Stakes (7f)
Some of the top fillies around descend on Newmarket to contest the Sweet Solera and Charlie Appleby’s Danilova arrives here on the crest of a wave.
The daughter of Dubawi won at Newmarket last Saturday at a shade of odds-on. She scored quite comfortably in the end coming home 1½ lengths clear of Senita.
✅ Daughter of Dubawi ✅ Half-sister to Listed winner Skiffle ✅ Off the mark for @godolphin
Danilova puts her experience to good use to shed the maiden tag second time out for Charlie Appleby & William Buick at @NewmarketRace
As per the majority of the Godolphin newcomers, she is definitely an exciting prospect and following up again this weekend is a distinct possibility.
Setarhe for the Roger Varian-stable has run three times this season already and will certainly know her job, while it is significant that Richard Hannon left Fly Miss Helen in the race after being mob handed with entries for this earlier in the week.
3.35 Ascot - Thames Hospice Handicap (1m 4f)
This is a rather open handicap on paper with all twelve runners in with some sort of a chance on the face of it - making it a nightmare for horse racing betting tips.
The Charlie Fellowes-trained Jeremiah has returned from a spell on the sidelines well, bouncing back to form with a dogged win over course and distance here a fortnight ago after two initial poor outings.
The five-year-old is partnered by Jim Crowley again and providing the dreaded bounce factor doesn’t kick in, they should put up another bold show.
Out of Jeremiah’s last race we can also take Koeman. Koeman was last seen running his best race for some time when chasing home Jeremiah at Ascot and he looks like he’ll be worth another interest.
The six-year-old appears to thrive at the Berkshire track and is also a course and winner too, which offers plenty of encouragement to anyone pondering whether to chance him as an each-way flutter in this.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Matt Slocum / AP Photo*
Steven is a sports and horse racing enthusiast and is a member of the Horseracing Writers and Photographers Association (HWPA) in the United Kingdom.
He is a regular visitor to Paris Longchamp for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and a lifelong fan of the Aintree Grand National, a subject he writes about 52 weeks of the year. Last year he reached the impressive milestone of attending the last 30 renewals of the Grand National.
Steven graduated from the University Of Lancaster in 1996 with a B.A (Hons) in Urban Policy & Race Relations (major) with Contemporary Religions & Belief Systems (minor) and still wonders if any of these help him find the winners?
He writes for a number of websites and online publications and you can sometimes hear him at the weekend discussing racing on a number of local radio stations.
