Our third top six clash of the season sees Manchester United host Tottenham on Monday evening. The previous, both involving Unai Emery’s Arsenal, have been brilliant to watch. This one is unlikely to be the same thriller for the neutrals.

Manchester United are the centre of attention right now and not in a good way. Their defeat to Brighton at the weekend was not just a concern because of the result, but the performance was abysmal at both ends of the field.

Mino Raiola’s outburst at Paul Scholes’ post-match comments added another few barrels of petrol to the fire. Jose Mourinho’s preseason frustration at transfers has grown into something more difficult. It feels like they are a club in turmoil yet again.

Tottenham, in stark contrast, have started well despite the chaos with their new stadium. The furore over a quiet transfer window has almost been forgotten after beginning the season with two wins and the return of Toby Alderweireld to the side is significant.

Pochettino built bridges with the Belgian – who looked destined to depart this summer – which has given him another defensive option compared to the end of last season.

Spurs have not had it all their own way so far, however. Newcastle made it difficult, and Fulham equalised through Aleksandar Mitrovic in the second half.

However, Pochettino’s side have managed to create chances regularly, even with Harry Kane clearly still struggling for fitness. Christian Eriksen is a big part of that, and he will play a key role in their build-up play at Old Trafford. The Dane is 13/4 to give an assist.

Manchester United’s midfield has been dysfunctional. Yes, that has been the case for years, but the arrival of Fred was meant to help matters. The former Shakhtar man has not played well in his two matches so far. Pogba was okay against Leicester but is still a shadow of his World Cup self.

Tottenham will flood the middle third and could really control the game. Fred has been rash so far, making his 2/1 to get booked a solid price.

Mourinho is likely to make changes to his defence for Monday night. Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof had a torrid time last weekend, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see both left out.

The United boss might have demanded to buy more players, but the performance – and his usage – of the players he has bought doesn’t suggest that would have helped.

Mourinho’s teams are usually solid defensively if nothing else. It’s hard to see such a stark turnaround on this occasion. Tottenham to score over 1.5 goals at 17/10 is good value.

Although the service may well be minimal, Romelu Lukaku to score anytime at 39/20 is a decent price. Spurs have not been rock solid at the back so far, and Lukaku could take advantage on the counter during spells of prolonged Spurs possession.

It would be textbook Mourinho to pull a result from nowhere here. Everything we have seen from United suggests otherwise, however. Their defence will be ripped apart if it’s anything like it was at Brighton and Spurs have the players to completely control the middle of the pitch.

Mourinho’s future will be in serious doubt with defeat here. Spurs are the better team right now, and should get the win, but Kane’s struggles give United a chance, albeit a small one.

TIP: Tottenham to win @ 37/20

PREDICTED SCORE: Man United 1-2 Spurs (Priced at 9/1 with 888sport)

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The four-day York Ebor Festival starts on Wednesday of this week and runs through until Saturday.

It is one of Britain’s leading summer festivals and features three top-class Group One contests and culminates with the ultra-competitive Ebor Handicap over 1m 6f on the fourth and final day.

Here is guide to what you can expect to see this week on the Knavesmire:

 

WEDNESDAY

The opening day of the Ebor Festival is named Juddmonte International Day after the showpiece event, the Juddmonte International. The Juddmonte is a Group One over 1m2f for horses aged three years and older and is renowned for bringing together the Classic generation with their elders.

It has become routine for dominant Guineas’ and Derby victors to tackle the older crop in the Juddmonte.  The race is regarded as one of the very best middle-distance contests of the summer, adding further importance to the first day of the meeting.

This year’s Juddmonte International is being billed as a “clash of the titans” by many and the race should really live up to its star billing from what we have seen from the main protagonists already this season.

Poet’s Word and Roaring Lion are vying for favouritism after featuring among 11 confirmations for Wednesday’s renewal.

The pair dominate the betting for the mile and a quarter feature but are not frightening away the opposition as Aidan O’Brien still runs his Deep Impact colt Saxon Warrior, while his son, Joseph, is not afraid to send over Latrobe, the Irish Derby winner to join battle.

The Great Voltigeur Stakes also plays a major role in the horse racing action on the Ebor meeting’s opening day. As a Group Two race over 1m 4f for three-year-old colts and geldings, the Great Voltigeur is a mid-summer alternative to the Epsom Derby.

The Grand Prix de Paris winner. Kew Gardens, currently heads the ante-post betting for this race and for the St Leger at Doncaster next month.

Mark Johnston's Dee Ex Bee, who was runner-up in the Investec Derby, and the Tim Easterby-trained Wells Farhh Go, winner of the Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket, look the best of the non-Aidan O’Brien trained runners.

The Ballydoyle trainer is responsible for half of the 16 entries.

 

THURSDAY

Day two marks Ladies’ Day at York racecourse as the Yorkshire Oaks and Lowther Stakes dominate the afternoon’s racing.

The Karl Burke-trained Laurens bids to complete a Group One hat-trick, having landed the Prix Saint-Alary and the Prix de Diane in France since filling the runner-up spot in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Her potential rivals include the Irish Oaks heroine Sea Of Class, although connections will be keeping a close eye on the weather.

Aidan O'Brien has left in Bye Bye Baby, Flattering, Forever Together and Magic Wand.

Aidan O'Brien has six entries in the Lowther Stakes as he attempts to land the valuable Group Two for juvenile fillies.

The top pick of his sextet appears to be Fairyland, who was last seen finishing third to Main Edition in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot, while his So Perfect went down by just half a length to Martyn Meade's colt Advertise in the Group One Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh last weekend and must rate as a serious contender.

 

FRIDAY

The third afternoon of the Ebor meeting is centred on the sprinters, and the Group One Nunthorpe Stakes for horses aged two and older. The contest is a blistering five-furlong sprint that is regarded as one of the strongest races in the division.

The fastest race of the week, the Coolmore Nunthorpe, is the target for Battaash who will be setting up a rematch with Blue Point on Friday afternoon.

Blue Point got the better of Battaash in the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot in June over five furlongs although he was well beaten last month in July Cup at Newmarket.

Battaash, on the other hand, bounced back to form at Glorious Goodwood, winning the King George Stakes by four lengths and showing once again that he is the world’s fastest horse.

The four-year-old filly Mabs Cross has run with credit in top sprint races this term, winning the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket in May and finishing in the first four in the Temple Stakes, the King's Stand Stakes and the Sapphire Stakes.

Judicial heads straight to the Nunthorpe after sidestepping several recent engagements in Ireland and Britain.

The Julie Camacho-trained sprinter for Elite Racing has been in good form this season, finishing second in the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket before taking a conditions race at Beverley and the Group Three Coral Charge at Sandown.

 

SATURDAY

The last day of the Ebor meeting sees the week’s showpiece event, and Europe’s richest handicap, The Ebor Handicap headlines a hugely competitive card. Raced over 1m 6f, the race brings together a number of Britain and Ireland’s best staying handicappers as they do battle for a share of the £500,000 prize-purse.

York Racecourse chairman Lord Grimthorpe said: “York is delighted that our continued commercial success in the first half of the season has allowed us to keep investing in the prize money, facilities and experience of racing at York.

"The Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival is our flagship meeting and we look forward to welcoming the racegoers and supporters to York to see the world’s best horses and jockeys competing on the Knavesmire.

"It already looks set to be a fabulous four days of racing action. Our continued thanks to our supporters and sponsors who help us to invest in racing at York.”

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

There’s never a dull moment when it comes to Premier League football. Okay, maybe there are a few when Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United are in action but their clash at Brighton & Hove Albion was an anomaly.

The Red Devils conceded three goals in a blistering first half and fans are starting to turn on the Portuguese.

Away from the Amex Stadium, there was lots of drama this weekend. Starting with Saturday afternoon’s last-gasp penalty for Newcastle against Cardiff to Manchester City’s demolition job of Huddersfield Town on Sunday, the Premier League did not disappoint.

Here are five of the most important things to take from this weekend’s action…

The Title Is Manchester City's To Lose

There’s only one place to start and that is at the Etihad Stadium. The defending champions, allegedly rocked by news of Kevin de Bruyne’s injury earlier this week, put six goals past David Wagner’s hapless Huddersfield.

via GIPHY

Liverpool face Crystal Palace on Monday evening and that City result will have raised a few eyebrows at Anfield.

The Reds invested heavily in the summer transfer window but the title is City’s to lose. Pep Guardiola’s side are a class above their domestic rivals and it would take a brave man to back against the Blues this season.

Watch this space, another hammering from City could be on the cards in the coming weeks.

 

West Ham United Need Time

With so many new faces arriving at the London Stadium this summer, it was always going to take time for West Ham to settle.

Manuel Pellegrini was given a handsome sum of money to spend in the transfer window but the Hammers are looking disjointed. Fans must be patient in order for Pellegrini to work his magic in the long term.

West Ham were poor against Liverpool on the opening weekend and they were second best against Bournemouth this weekend as well.

Bringing four or five new faces into the starting line-up and expecting players to gel immediately never works – it may take a few months before we start to see West Ham realise their full potential.

 

Harry Kane's August Run Is Over

The England international had failed to score a Premier League goal in August in well over 1,000 minutes of top flight action but that run is over.

With that mental barrier now lifted, Kane can push on and build momentum as he looks to get his hands back on the Golden Boot award – Mo Salah is going to take some stopping though.

Kane’s goal helped Tottenham to a 3-1 victory over London rivals Fulham at Wembley and the England captain had a few opportunities to add to his tally.

Backing against the 2018 World Cup Golden Boot winner in his pursuit of individual recognition would be foolish, especially considering his recent Premier League record.

 

Burnley Struggling, Watford Soaring

Sean Dyche’s Burnley may be struggling to juggle their European commitments. The Clarets failed to inspire confidence against Watford at Turf Moor on Sunday, conceding after just three minutes – not “Burnley-like” in the slightest.

The hosts were taken to extra-time by Istanbul Basaksehir on Thursday and those excursions may have taken their toll.

Meanwhile, Javi Gracia’s side are heading in the opposite direction. Watford were a class above Brighton on the opening weekend and followed that up with an equally impressive performance at Burnley.

The Hornets hadn’t scored away from home in the Premier League since January but the signs are positive for Watford in 2018/19.

 

Pressure Cranking Up On Jose Mourinho

Manchester United fans are starting to turn. Despite finishing second in the Premier League table last season, Jose Mourinho is a man under pressure.

United’s lack of transfer activity had fans fearing the worst ahead of the new campaign and Sunday’s 3-2 defeat at Brighton confirmed those doubts: the Red Devils are some way below their title rivals.

via GIPHY

United registered just two shots on target in 90 minutes – Mourinho’s side have struggled to create chances so far this season and the Red Devils are in real danger of finishing outside the top four.

Will Mourinho still be in the Old Trafford hot seat come the end of the season? Not if United play like they did against Brighton. It is as simple as that.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The Great St. Wilfrid Handicap is a flat race handicap 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 are some trends and statistics from the last ten runnings of the race.

Age (win-place-runners)

3-y-o: 1-1-8

4-y-o: 2-8-52

5-y-o: 4-7-47

6-y-o: 1-6-40

7-y-o: 2-5-24

8-y-o+: 0-3-25

The five-year-olds have been successful in the last six years.

Only one three-year-old has won since 1999 (Don’t Touch 2015). However no three-year-olds are left in the final declarations this year.

 

 

Weight

Carrying 9st 7lb+: 0-3-17

Carrying 9st-9st 6lb: 5-11-67

It may pay to concentrate on the racecard numbers 4-12 this year.

 

Form

• Ten out of ten winners had run at least three times in the current season.  All the runners still entered pass on that criterion except Glen Moss.
• Eight out of the past ten winners had run in the past twenty one days. That may lead you scratch out Aeolus, Teruntum Star, Al Qahwa, Glen Moss and Dakota Gold, due to a lack of a recent run.
• Nine out of the last ten winners either ran at Newmarket, Goodwood, Haydock or Ripon last time out. The following horses DID NOT do so:  Ice Age, Kimberella, Aeolus, Flying Pursuit, Teruntum Star, Golden Apollo, Brian The Snail, Al Qahwa, Foolaad, Glen Moss, Dakota Gold, Henley and Dark Power.
• The seven horses that DO qualify on the last run statistic are: Spring Loaded, Growl, Pipers Note, Shangai Glory, Gunmetal, Marie Of Lyon and Reputation.
• Five out of the last ten winners had previously won over course and distance. Qualifiers under that statistic are:  Pipers Note, Kimberella, Teruntum Star, Flying Pursuit and Reputation.

 

Trainer Form

David O’Meara has trained the winner three times in recent years. He saddles just one horse on this occasion, Al Qahwa.

Richard Fahey has trained the winner once in the last ten years. He is represented by Kimberella, Growl, Brian The Snail and Marie Of Lyon.

It is pretty significant that Kevin Ryan has been knocking on the door in recent years, with six of his runners placing. Ryan is represented this time by Teruntum Star.

Tim Easterby won this last year with Mattmu and this time he saddles Golden Apollo and Flying Pursuit.

 

Effect Of The Draw

Drawn 1-10: 8-18-100

Drawn 11+: 2-12-96

Horses drawn in a favourable stall this year are: Spring Loaded, Ice Age, Growl, Golden Apollo, Pipers Note, Shangai Glory, Al Qahwa, Reputation, Dakota Gold and Henley.

 

Price

Eight 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.

The first five in the horse racing betting odds for information purposes on the evening of Thursday 16th August were: Growl, Pipers Note, Golden Apollo, Flying Pursuit, Kimberella.

*Please check out the first five in the betting on the actual race day itself.

 

Notable Runners

Pipers Note

The Ruth Carr-trained Pipers Note was narrowly defeated by Mattmu in last year’s renewal and comes into this race at the top of his game.

The eight-year-old chestnut gelding is an eight time winner at Ripon and has won over course and distance.

His trainer Ruth Carr told ATR’s Simom Mapletoft: "Pipers Note is in flying form. He absolutely loves the place and goes into the race on a hat-trick so we’re really looking forward to it.

"He finished second to Mattmu in the race last year, who was a Group-class performer having his first run in a handicap, so that was a really good effort. It would be great if he could go one better on Saturday and I’m very hopeful."

He looks sure to put in another bold show.

 

Growl

The Richard Fahey-trained Growl, who was last seen finishing an excellent third in the Stewards' Cup at Glorious Goodwood, looks the pick of the Malton-based trainer’s runners.

The six-year-old could only manage ninth in the Ripon feature last year after a slow start meant he was never in the hunt for glory.

Fahey's assistant, Robin O'Ryan, said: "He just hasn't had things drop right for him yet but he has shown more in his last two runs.

"At York he was drawn on the wrong side and then in the Stewards' Cup he got messed around a bit, but that happens in these races.

"He'd be our main hope if he runs, I imagine, but you need luck in these races, you could run it five times and get five different winners.

"A few more showers wouldn't hurt him, either, but he looks to be coming back to form."

 

Flying Pursuit and Golden Apollo

Stable companions Flying Pursuit and Golden Apollo, who dominated the finish of the Dash at York recently, are understandably prominent in the betting market.

The Tim Easterby-trained pair pulled clear of the field at York, with Flying Pursuit winning by a neck, but he is 1lb worse off on Saturday.

 

Gunmetal

Since leaving Charlie Hills, Gunmetal has scored a couple of times for his new trainer, David Barron.

He ran in the Stewards Cup at Goodwood last time and this race should be more his level. He appears to click with in form jockey Ben Curtis and they could easily go well at a nice each-way price.

888sport suggests: Pipers Note and Gunmetal (e.w)

The first weekend of the Premier League was everything we expected. A sluggish start post-World Cup was nowhere to be seen, the standard was high and there was plenty of entertainment.

Next weekend should be much the same. Fixtures, on paper at least, almost all seem exciting at this time of year.

Everything is a bit of an unknown, the summer overhaul of squads gives a chance to see players many might not have watched much before.

The Saturday 3pm kick-offs have the potential to be thrilling this weekend. Here are a few thoughts and tips…

 

EVERTON vs SOUTHAMPTON

Despite Phil Jagielka being sent off, Everton battled to a 2-2 draw with Wolves last Saturday.

Richarlison was the star man in Marco Silva’s first league match at the helm, but it was an impressive team performance, something Everton fans have seen all too infrequently in the last couple of seasons.

Southampton were involved in probably the worst match of the weekend as they played out a goalless draw with Burnley.

Everton’s good record at home means Saints might have to wait another few days for their first win of the season.

Everton should control this match. Southampton need a special performance from one of their midfielders to stand a chance.

TIP: Everton to win @ 19/20

PREDICTED SCORE: Everton 2-0 Southampton (Priced at 15/2 with 888sport)

 

LEICESTER CITY vs WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Leicester played well against Manchester United in the season opener, but the absence of Jamie Vardy left them short on cutting edge.

James Maddison was excellent at Old Trafford, his eye for a pass with Vardy’s speed and timing of runs could make for a lethal combination.

Wolves were vulnerable at the back against Everton and could be caught out in transition by Vardy.

With the ball, though, the Championship winners last term were accomplished as expected. Portuguese duo Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho will win them plenty of matches this season.  

This Midlands clash could be a great match to watch. It’s a tough one to predict as a result, however. Sitting on the fence might be the best way to go.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 10/13

PREDICTED SCORE: Leicester 1-1 Wolves (Priced at 11/2 with 888sport)

 

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs FULHAM

It looked like Spurs were going to name a makeshift line-up on opening day, but Mauricio Pochettino was able to name a near-full-strength XI to face Newcastle.

It was impossible to tell that many of the squad had had a shortened preseason. Spurs played with their trademark intensity and looked every bit the side we have seen for the last few seasons.

Fulham, as often happens when a team make such significant changes to the squad, looked a bit disjointed at home to Palace.

Defensively the west Londoners were disorganised. A similar performance at Wembley could result in a pretty ugly scoreline.

Goals are the way to go in this one. Fulham could trouble Spurs’ defence, but the hosts should win this one. Unfortunately, their 27/100 price means there’s no value in backing a home win.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 8/15

PREDICTED SCORE: Tottenham 3-1 Fulham (Priced at 9/1 with 888sport)

 

WEST HAM UNITED vs AFC BOURNEMOUTH

West Ham’s defeat to Liverpool was not surprising. The manner of it, however, gave cause for concern as their midfield was blown away. Manuel Pellegrini has a tricky job to get a balanced trio in the middle third.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, got off to a flyer. Sure, beating Cardiff at home was a minimum requirement, but Eddie Howe’s side looked good in the process.

Ryan Fraser’s performance was particularly impressive. The winger is 21/2 to open the scoring.

West Ham’s revamped attack will have a better chance to influence the match this weekend. Marko Arnautovic will be pivotal again this year - the Austrian is a good price to score anytime.

TIP: Marko Arnautovic to score anytime @ 8/5

PREDICTED SCORE: West Ham 2-1 Bournemouth (Priced at 15/2 with 888sport)

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Where the Champions League has glamour, the Europa League is the home of the upset. The qualifying rounds see mismatches akin to FA Cup ties as some of Europe’s heavyweights face minnows.

Last week’s qualifying first legs were eventful. The second legs this week should be fascinating. Here are a few thoughts on four of the most intriguing matches…

CS U CRAIOVA vs RB LEIPZIG

Craiova were only refounded in 2013 and finished third in the Romanian top tier last season. It’s no surprise they couldn’t cope with Leipzig in the first leg, but they have the slightest of chances thanks to an away goal despite the match ending 3-1.

Leipzig, however, left several of their stars on the bench for the first match. Yussuf Poulsen, Emil Forsberg and Timo Werner all played at the World Cup, and might be brought in to start this match. Poulsen scored the third that probably put this out of reach for Craiova.

The 2/5 price on Leipzig to win this match in 90 minutes is a good one. This is like an extended preseason for the Bundesliga side.

TIP: Leipzig to win @ 2/5

PREDICTED SCORE: CS U Craiova 0-2 RB Leipzig (Priced at 7/1 with 888sport)

 

FC BASEL vs VITESSE

A late Ricky van Wolfswinkel goal turned this tie drastically in Basel’s favour. The Swiss club have a 1-0 lead as they head back home, making Vitesse the underdogs for progression. Basel are the favourites to win on the night at 11/20.

Vitesse, who could yet reinforce their Chelsea loan army before the window shuts, have to go on the offensive from the off and will be vulnerable as a result. A 0-0 first leg would have suited them perfectly. Instead, the Dutch side are in need of a miracle.

Basel are the better side of the two and have more European experience. After a challenging first leg, the hosts should do this easily.

TIP: FC Basel to win @ 11/20

PREDICTED SCORE: FC Basel 2-0 Vitesse (Priced at 7/1 with 888sport)

 

MARIBOR vs RANGERS

Despite a scare when Mitja Viler equalised for Maribor in the first half, Rangers got half the job done in the first leg with a 3-1 victory. Just like Leipzig, though, they are far from safe thanks to that away goal. A 2-0 victory on home soil puts Maribor through to the next round.

Steven Gerrard’s reign has largely started well, but discipline issues have already surfaced with two red cards in his first two Scottish Premiership matches. The Glaswegian giants did still win at the weekend, however, and have cruised for much of the Europa League qualifying.

Maribor were competitive in the first leg. Rangers are likely to go through, but it might not be the most comfortable night for Gerrard.

TIP: Maribor to win or draw @ 7/20

PREDICTED SCORE: Maribor 2-1 Rangers (Priced at 8/1 with 888sport)

 

BURNLEY vs ISTANBUL BASAKSEHIR

Burnley’s 0-0 draw in the first leg was exactly what we all expected of a Sean Dyche side in Europe. It wasn’t pretty, but the Clarets at least kept themselves in the tie. No goals in the away leg, however, puts severe pressure on the Burnley defence to keep another clean sheet at home.'

Another 0-0 followed for Burnley at the weekend against Southampton. This match may well take a similar pattern – one goal either way could win it. Istanbul Basaksehir had a better weekend, beating Trabzonspor 2-0 with Emmanuel Adebayor getting on the scoresheet.

Dyche admitted that the Premier League is his priority this season. A weakened team or subpar performance could cost Burnley their Europa League season.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 1/2

PREDICTED SCORE: Burnley 1-1 Istanbul Basaksehir (Priced at 21/4 with 888sport)

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The Super Cup takes place this Wednesday in Tallinn. Thanks to Spanish success in the Europa League and Champions League, we have the rather surreal prospect of a Madrid derby held over 2,300 miles (by car) away from the Spanish capital.

Real Madrid are in transition in this Ronaldo-in-Turin world. Julen Lopetegui has had a quiet window by their standards, with no superstar arriving to replace the Portuguese forward. Thibaut Courtois was the most notable acquisition, but that deal saw midfielder Mateo Kovacic depart on loan.

Los Blancos were underwhelming domestically last term, finishing 17 points off Barcelona. Yet another Champions League more than made up for that failure, though.
The playing staff might not be drastically different, but there’s a degree of uncertainty around the club in the absence of Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane.

Atletico have had a solid summer thus far. Thomas Lemar and Gelson Martins give Diego Simeone extra options in the final third, and they crucially retained the services of World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann.

They had the best defensive record in La Liga last season, conceding just 22 goals. Pair that with a reinforced frontline and Atletico will be a threat on all fronts this term.

Unlike Atletico, Real’s defence was fallible last season. They conceded 44 league goals, which was even more than Espanyol, who finished down in 11th.

Atletico, however, scored just 58 in the league, fewer than several bottom-half sides. These two teams have been incredibly close for several seasons, but they get their results in such contrasting ways.

Lopetegui’s side to score over 1.5 is good value at 8/5. A period of adaptation after Ronaldo is likely, but they still have plenty of firepower. This could be when we finally see Gareth Bale take charge on a regular basis.

He has done it in big matches on countless occasions before. The Welshman is at 21/4 to open the scoring.

Atletico to score under 1.5 at 4/11 is a very good price. If the noisiest neighbours in world football are to be successful in Estonia this week, it won’t be a high-scoring affair, it will be on the back of a solid defensive effort and opportunism in the final third.

These derbies have a familiar pattern. Real dominate the ball, Atletico sit deep and spring counter attacks with long passes towards their front two.

Diego Costa has a big role to play occupying the central defenders. The Costa versus Ramos duel is bound to flair up during the 90 minutes, both are a good bet to get carded.

Real Madrid’s midfielders, particularly Casemiro, could be a good price to pick up a card as well as he’s likely to be left isolated during spells of prolonged Real possession.

Real Madrid just edge the full-time betting at 31/20 to Atleti’s 2/1. In addition, the reigning European champions are favoured to lift the trophy at 3/4. After a summer of relative turmoil for the world’s biggest club, Atletico look a good bet to win this one.

We know Simeone’s side will be organised, and they could stifle their local rivals.

Costa to score anytime and Atletico to win at 21/4 looks a really good price ahead of this one. The Spanish international was back to his dominant self at the World Cup after a sluggish start to his second spell in Madrid, he could torment a Real Madrid defence that was vulnerable last season.

Without Ronaldo, it’s a lot less likely the Real forwards bail out any defensive mishaps.

TIP: Diego Costa to score and Atletico to win @ 21/4

PREDICTED SCORE: Atletico Madrid 1-0 Real Madrid (Priced at 8/1 with 888sport)

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The Premier League is back. Match of the Day, Super Sunday and Twitter complaining about BT’s commentators is a part of our weekends for the next eight months or so (except a few international breaks scattered into the schedule).

The campaign started off on Friday night and ended with a top-six clash on Sunday afternoon. Kneejerk reactions were everywhere.

So, here are five of our own takeaways from the first weekend of the Premier League season…

Naby Keita Is As Good As Expected

Anyone who saw Naby Keita play for Leipzig knew how good a player Liverpool were signing. There’s a risk with every new arrival that it doesn’t go to plan, though. Keita’s performance against West Ham went at least some way to calming the sceptics.

Liverpool were in complete control – as expected – against West Ham. Mo Salah got on the scoresheet once again, James Milner was his reliable self, and it was very much business as usual.

The main difference from last season was Keita, a natural playmaker in the middle third, an accomplished passer capable of taking opponents on.

There will be tougher challenges for the Guinean – Mark Noble and Declan Rice were simply not on his level – but this was a near-perfect start.

 

Sarri-Ball Is An Instant Hit

A rough start at Napoli and key players missing much of preseason suggested a sluggish first few matches for Chelsea. Maurizio Sarri’s methods take time, and he’s warned everyone of that as he looks to drastically change the style of play at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues raced out of the gates this weekend. Anything other than a victory would have been a massive upset away at Huddersfield, but the manner of the win was important as Chelsea adapt to Sarriball after two seasons of Antonio Conte 3-4-3.

N’golo Kante thrived in an advanced role, Jorginho controlled the game and Eden Hazard was devastating when he arrived off the bench (he completed six take ons in just 14 minutes).

Beating Huddersfield won’t define Chelsea’s season, but the early signs are good for Sarri’s Chelsea.

 

No Need To Worry About Dele

Dele Alli played a different role for Spurs last season, which resulted in plenty of criticism. Alli was midfielder rather than second striker for Spurs in 2017/18, a role he continued in for England at the World Cup.

His breakthrough was based on goals. Since then, his performance has been based on his goal scoring numbers above anything else.

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With Heung-min Son on the bench, Alli played further forward again at Newcastle and scored a trademark back post header. His all-round performance was great, as he looked a threat throughout.   

Adaptability is a skill, and Alli has shown he can change his role seamlessly. There’s no World Cup hangover for Dele.

 

Chasm In Class Already An Issue For Cardiff

Cardiff’s squad looked the weakest on paper when the window shut.

Neil Warnock’s side did nothing to question that as they fell to a 2-0 defeat away at Bournemouth on Saturday. Cardiff were outplayed throughout, creating very little and being carved open on multiple occasions.

Warnock brought six players in over the summer, but four were from the Championship. While they could all still be successful signings, they’re simply a lower calibre of player than many signed by their rivals.

The Welsh club face Newcastle and Huddersfield next before they face Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. At least three points are required from the next two or Warnock could be under serious pressure when they host Burnley at the end of September.

 

Palace Can Be About More Than Zaha This Year

Keeping Wilfried Zaha was crucial for Crystal Palace this summer. Roy Hodgson’s side did that, but their opening weekend win against Fulham was about so much more than Zaha.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Patrick van Aanholt were superb from the full-back positions, getting an assist apiece.

New signings Max Meyer and Cheikou Kouyate didn’t start for Hodgson, but James McArthur and Luka Milivojevic were solid. A good team performance was rewarded with a victory against a Fulham team that have a squad capable of a top-half finish this term.

Palace’s record with and without Zaha can’t be ignored. He’s become talismanic for the Eagles, but Hodgson has plenty to work with at Selhurst Park. Saturday’s performance was a benchmark for how good Palace could be this season.

Predicted league tables are everywhere in the build up to a new season. Getting 20 teams in the correct spots is near impossible, of course, but that doesn’t stop us all thinking we know exactly where everyone will finish come May.

The Premier League’s standings were hard to predict last season, they might be even trickier this year. Outside the top six, it feels like teams could finish anywhere. Within the top six, it’s going to be tight.

Matchup betting is one way to narrow it down to just a couple of teams. Simply, which one will finish higher. Here are a few thoughts on the market…

LEICESTER CITY vs WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

Having lost Riyad Mahrez this summer, Leicester are 7/10 to finish above newly promoted Wolves. The squad at Molineux is strong, particularly having added Joao Moutinho to the midfield this summer.

Leicester have retained Harry Maguire, while bringing in James Maddison, Jonny Evans and Ricardo Pereira. It’s been a decent summer for Claude Puel, but the poor second half of last season is cause for concern.

Both of these teams should be somewhere in mid-table. They’re two of the trickiest clubs to call this year. Either could get sucked into a relegation scrap but could just as easily finish in the top eight.

Wolves are understandably underdogs in this one having just been promoted. The Evens price on the Championship winners to finish above their fellow Midlanders looks good.

 

ARSENAL vs MANCHESTER UNITED

Arsenal and Manchester United’s rivalry has waned in recent years. The decline of the Gunners, retirement of Alex Ferguson (and now Arsene Wenger) and rise of the rest of the top six has contributed to that. We may see it return in 2018/19, however.

Jose Mourinho is on the cusp of his traditional third season meltdown, while Unai Emery has brought a wave of new positivity to the Emirates. Arsenal got their summer business done early and have had time to work together in preseason.

Mourinho is still complaining about transfers, and United will have the Champions League distraction to cope with, while the Gunners are likely to rest their first teamers during the Europa League group stage.

Arsenal are out at 2/1 to finish above Mourinho’s men this season. The form of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang last season and Mourinho’s comments in preseason make that great value.

 

CRYSTAL PALACE vs WEST HAM UNITED

West Ham are optimistic again. Sure, it’s happened before, but it’s meant to be different this time.

The Hammers have spent heavily this summer, Manuel Pellegrini has been able to make significant attacking additions in Felipe Anderson and Andriy Yarmolenko along with the arrival of Jack Wilshere on a free.

Roy Hodgson looks set to keep hold of Wilfried Zaha. With Zaha, the Eagles should be comfortable in mid-table. If they were to lose him, though, Palace are relegation candidates, even after the arrivals of Cheikhou Kouyate and Max Meyer.

West Ham are a very short 1/2 to get the better of this matchup. West Ham being West Ham means that isn’t great value. Palace at 7/5 could be a good price if Hodgson keeps Zaha and can add a couple more players before the window shuts.

 

CHELSEA vs TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

It’s been all change at Chelsea again. The Stamford Bridge hierarchy finally hired Maurizio Sarri, despite keeping Antonio Conte at the club for longer than anyone expected.

The Blues have managed to keep hold of Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois for now but are likely to be active before the window shuts.

Tottenham have made no signings yet this summer. It’s a mystery if they will add anyone at all. Spurs have defied expectations repeatedly in recent seasons but going into this season with the same squad as last is a risk.

With no extra depth, the strain of the Champions League will be felt harder than ever, particularly with several key players having played in the World Cup knockout rounds.

This one is split with both teams at 17/20. Chelsea are an unknown quantity this season, but if they keep Hazard, they look just about the better bet in this one.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

European club football is so nearly back with us. Players have returned back to training at different times depending on their World Cup involvement, leaving some managers with their hands tied as the season begins.

The campaign after a summer tournament can be a slow starter, particularly for those who had several players in the latter rounds in Russia.  With squads becoming clearer, let’s take a look round the top European leagues…

Bundesliga

To the surprise of literally no one, Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to win the Bundesliga at 1/7. The Bavarian giants have not had the best summer but are still a cut above the majority of their competition.

Borussia Dortmund have made changes after losing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the winter window. Andriy Yarmolenko, Sokratis, Gonzalo Castro and Andre Schurrle have all departed. The replacements are shrewd, if unexciting. It will be fun under Lucien Favre, but a challenge to Bayern is improbable.

Bayer Leverkusen, who finished outside the top four last season, are 9/10 to make the top four this time around. They have retained the majority of their talented youngsters, though, and should improve on 2017/18.

Wolfsburg had a close shave with a shock relegation but have made good additions this summer. It’d be a surprise to see them in such trouble again.

Despite scoring only 13 Bundesliga goals last season, Timo Werner looks a decent price at 11/1 to top score.

Tip: Wolfsburg to finish in the top 10 @ Evens

 

Ligue 1

Like in neighbouring Germany, the French top flight is a one-horse race. Paris Saint Germain are 1/14 to win the title before a ball is kicked. The Parisians have had to sell off players this summer, but that’s not exactly going to make this an interesting title fight.

Lyon are down to be PSG’s nearest competitors. Their summer has been a success to date, as they managed to fend off interest from Liverpool for Nabil Fekir. Fekir is value at 14/1 to be the top assister in Ligue 1.

Similar to last season, the chasing pack are expected to be very close. Lyon, Monaco and Marseille are well balanced on paper, and finished just three points apart last term.

Monaco and Marseille are both at 11/20 to make the top three. Despite losing Thomas Lemar, Fabinho and Joao Moutinho, Monaco are set to be strong again. Their recruitment and development of youngsters has been proven to produce on an annual basis. It will be interesting to see which player bursts onto the scene this year.

Marseille’s duo of Dimitri Payet and Florian Thauvin were superb last season. Assuming they can retain the pair in the dying embers of the window, Payet – who was joint-top assister in 2017/18 – is a good price at 5/1 to assist more goals than anyone else. Thauvin could be a fun 60/1 longshot for the Golden Boot.

Tip: Dimitri Payet to be top assister @ 5/1

 

La Liga

Barcelona are 4/5 to win another LaLiga title. Real Madrid are out at 8/5, a surprisingly short price given the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and the failure of the Bernabeu big wigs to recruit anyone to step into those impossibly enormous shoes.

Los Blancos have added teenagers Vinicius Junior and 22-year-old winger Alvaro Odriozola this summer. Barcelona signed Arturo Vidal, Malcom, Arthur and Clement Lenglet as they begin the post-Iniesta era.

Atletico Madrid have had the best window of big sides, however. Diego Simeone’s squad has been reinforced with Thomas Lemar, Gelson Martins, Rodri and Santiago Arias as they move on from their own club legend, Gabi.

The frontline looks formidable for the noisiest neighbours in world sport. Simeone’s side at 8/1 to win the title is one of the standout bets around Europe.

Valencia had a 12-point cushion as they claimed fourth spot last season. Having lost Joao Cancelo, they have reinforced the midfield with the arrival of the energetic Daniel Wass and youngster Uros Racic.

Their 6/4 price to make the top four looks good value given their performance last season and the summers of Sevilla and Villarreal.

Tip: Atletico Madrid to be the best in Comunidad de Madrid @ 2/1

 

Serie A

You have to go back to 2010/11 for the last time Juventus didn’t win Serie A. This summer, the Old Lady added Cristiano Ronaldo to a team that has dominated Italy for the best part of a decade. Even with Ronaldo, Juve are only 4/9 to win the league, a lengthy price compared to Bayern and PSG.

Napoli at least made it a contest last season. Things are different in Naples this year, though, with Maurizio Sarri replaced by Carlo Ancelotti and midfield lynchpin Jorginho having departed, they are 6/1 second favourites to lift the Scudetto.

Fabian Ruiz and Simone Verdi give reason for cautious optimism at Stadio San Paolo, but squad depth is still a concern as Napoli look to compete on multiple fronts.

Inter have had a massive window. Already boasting one of the elite strikers in Mauro Icardi, the Milanese club have acquired Radja Nainggolan to join Croatian duo Ivan Perisic and Marcelo Brozovic in midfield. They look great value at 13/20 to finish in the top three. Icardi at 7/2 to top score isn’t bad, either.

It’s set up to be a fascinating tussle between the top six in Italy. Milan have added certain goals in Gonzalo Higuain, Roma have refreshed their squad with a clutch of gifted youngsters and Lazio have kept hold of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Ciro Immobile.

Inter look well poised to push Juventus this season. The Perisic-to-Icardi combination will prove key if the Nerazzuri are to be a real contender for a first Scudetto since Jose Mourinho.

Tip: Ivan Perisic to be the top assister @ 13/1

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*