Football; it's both the most supported sport in the world and the one that attracts the most bets. The biggest football leagues in the world reside in Europe, for the most part. Unfortunately, most of them finish at the same time and make the summer quite empty, leaving a void.

Luckily, there are a whole world of other sports that take place over the summer months, including some very competitive leagues for bettors to make the most of. Let's start with some football from other areas of the world...

Football

Despite the big leagues of Europe shutting down for the summer months, a lot of great football takes place over the summer – and you can bet on it all! The premier summer leagues include those in Scandinavia, East Asia, and North America.

Right now, you can bet on the Finnish Veikkausliiga, where HJK are the clear favourites at 1/5, with SJK Seinajoki not so close behind at 5/1. As for the Norwegian Eliteserien, you can get 1/7 on Rosenborg to be the best in the Midt-Norge and 6/5 on Stromsgodset to be the best in the Ostlandet, with Sarpsborg 08 at 5/2.

If Swedish football’s more your thing, turn to the premier Allsvenskan league, where you can bet on a huge range of markets, including best-promoted team, best in Stockholm, and many player markets as well. Malmo FF are edging the betting at 7/4 to win the league. The Scandinavian leagues all get underway between the middle of March and the start of April and continue through the summer.

Over in Japan and South Korea, two of the most exciting leagues are already underway. Watch any highlights of the J1-League or K-League 1 and you’ll see stands awash with colour and bouncing fans. You can follow and bet on all K-League 1 games each week, and can also back outrights in the J1-League. The Japanese top division is hotly contested, with Kawasaki Frontale at 4/1, Kashima Antlers at 9/2, and the Urawa Red Diamonds at 6/1 to win the league.

The MLS is already underway, and you can find odds for every single game as well as a huge number of outright markets, which include the MLS winner, MLS MVP winner, top goalscorer, top assists, and the winners of each conference. So far, Toronto FC are favoured to win the MLS at 4/1, with the Seattle Sounders and New York City FC at 7/1.

But, the ultimate event on the calendar this year, the biggest sports event in the world, is the World Cup. Taking place in Russia this summer, the World Cup betting is already underway. Many great teams are in the mix to win it this year, including Brazil and Germany at 19/4, France at 11/2, Spain at 7/1, and Argentina at 9/1.

 

Ice Hockey

Probably the biggest ice hockey league in the world is the NHL and, while the regular season is close to reaching its conclusion, the NHL is far from finished. The Stanley Cup playoffs get underway in April and run through to June. Playoff ice hockey produces incredible performances and huge upsets, which bettors often make the most of. In each NHL game, all year around, you can make the most of our special player markets, which include goal scorers and point scorers.

The regular season standings will greatly sway current odds but the best team in the NHL regular season has only gone on to win the Stanley Cup in eight of the last 31 seasons. So, while the Tampa Bay Lightning are 11/2 to win the cup now, other teams with rosters that are perceived to be better in the playoffs may usurp them.

The Nashville Predators have a strong team at 7/1, as do the Pittsburgh Penguins who are going for three cups in a row at 10/1. Or, there’s the Vegas Golden Knights who are brand new in the league and could complete their fairytale start with a cup win at 11/1.

 

Boxing

While there is a perceived break in the boxing world, world-class fights take place all year round. This summer, there is a stellar line-up of big boxing bouts.

May starts off with two rematches. The hotly anticipated bout between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin comes to fruition on 6^th May after the first bout controversially ended in a split decision. The Kazakh is favoured at 13/25 to win comprehensively this time around.

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The less anticipated rematch of Tony Bellew versus David Haye takes place on 5^th May, with Haye expected to redeem himself and win at 2/5. The first match saw Bellew put in a good boxing display while Haye was very poor and simply swung for the fences – which effectively resulted in an injury to his Achilles – so anything could happen in this fight.

Later in May, there’s also the mega fight on 11^th May between Oleksandr Usyk and Murat Gassiev, in which Usyk looks to demonstrate his dominance as the 33/100 favourite. In another five-star fight on 19^th May, Lee Selby takes on Josh Warrington, with the challenger at 7/2 to get a surprise win.

 

Tennis

Summer brings about two massive Grand Slam events in tennis. First comes the French Open from 27^th May to 10^th June, which the ‘King of the Clay’ Rafael Nadal is expected to win at 9/10. His closest competitor, Novak Djokovic, is at long odds of 5/1.

Shortly after the French Open comes Wimbledon, which is seen by many as the premier event on the outdoor grass calendar. In both the men’s and the women’s tennis, there are a couple of favourites to take the trophy. Roger Federer is at 7/4 while Serena Williams is at 11/4 to win at Wimbledon.

 

Formula One

The Formula One season may start at the end of March but the summer is where the top drivers begin to separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

During the summer months, F1 fans will be treated to the Spanish Grand Prix (11-13^th May), Monaco Grand Prix (24-27^th May), Canadian Grand Prix (8-10^th June), French Grand Prix (22-24^th June), Austrian Grand Prix (29^th June to 1^st July), British Grand Prix (6-8^th July), German Grand Prix (20-22^nd July), and the Hungarian Grand Prix (27-29^th July).

Coming into the season, Mercedes GP are firm 4/9 favourites to win the Constructors’ Championship, with their lead driver Lewis Hamilton at 9/10 odds of winning the Drivers’ Championship. But Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel, currently 7/2 in 888sport's betting odds, will be hot on his tail this year.

 

Baseball

Of all of the major sports leagues in North America, the MLB is the one that dominates the summer months. Preseason, or spring training, has recently started, and the season doesn’t come to a close until the World Series sometime around November. You can, of course, bet on every spring training game and regular season game now and through the summer.

As for the ultimate prize, the World Series, last year’s finalists, the Los Angeles Dodgers, are favoured at 6/1 to redeem themselves this year. Still considered to be the best team in the league, the Houston Astros are at 13/2 to win the World Series again, with the New York Yankees also on the same odds.

 

Golf

Swinging in over the summer is a huge event on the golfing calendar. The 147^th Open Championship gets underway on 19^th July and runs until 22^nd July. While Duston Johnson and Rory McIlroy are in the running at 14/1 and 12/1, respectively, it’s Jordan Spieth at 10/1 who is expected to lift the trophy.

For many, the primary betting events are those in the world of football, particularly the Premier League, the other top European divisions, and the continental club competitions. But even when the UEFA Champions League final rings in the close of the season, there is a huge range of sports and betting markets to get stuck into.

 

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

The Formula One season heads to China this weekend for the third race of the campaign. The Bahrain Grand Prix last weekend was a thriller, with Sebastian Vettel victorious for the second time in as many races despite a late push from Valtteri Bottas.

Vettel has a perfect 50 points and a 17-point lead over title rival, Lewis Hamilton. The Brit was at his attacking best to snatch a podium finish after starting ninth on the grid. Hamilton will fancy his chances of a return to form in Shanghai, though, where he was won on five occasions including in 2017.

Hamilton’s Mercedes should benefit from the long straights at Shanghai. The power of the Mercedes should see some of the highest speeds of the weekend. As is now expected, Hamilton is favourite to take pole at 4/6.

I think there’s pretty solid value in that this week given his dominance at this circuit, even after qualification disappointment last weekend.

Pirelli have picked the medium, soft and ultrasoft compounds. Hamilton and Bottas opted for a couple fewer sets of ultras than their rival Ferraris, however, which could see the Mercedes drivers look for length from their tyres during the race.

Leaving out the supersoft compound is a bit of a surprise. There’s significant variation in tyre selection across the grid, though, with teams beginning to get a sense of what works best for their setup.

Hamilton and Bottas have done well on harder compounds so far this year, which should stand them in good stead for this race. Hamilton is 19/20 to win the race, while I like the 3/5 price on Bottas to make the podium.

The story of Bahrain was the Toro Rossos. Pierre Gasly finished fourth, sending his team into a wave of post-race celebration. Perhaps a giant leap forward for the middle of the field team, or a one-off surge up the standings. Depending on your viewpoint, the 66/1 on Gasly to make the podium could be a decent longshot bet.

Any drivers from the midfield could be in with a chance at Shanghai. The tightening, chaotic turns one and two lend themselves to carnage on the first lap. A decent qualification on Saturday can quickly become an elevated race position with a smart – or fortuitous – piece of driving.

In stark contrast to the Toro Rosso joy, the Red Bulls had a disaster last weekend. Max Verstappen has endured a torrid start to the year but sits at 5/4 to make the podium in China. I think that’s on the short side given their struggles. Daniel Ricciardo’s 6/4 is a little better, though I prefer Kimi Raikonnen at that price.

The Formula One season has started brilliantly. Shanghai has the potential to follow in a similar manner. Its winding corners and DRS zones make for a challenging afternoon as a driver but has the potential for overtaking and driver error.

I am backing Hamilton to make it a sixth career win in China this weekend. Vettel will be happy to limit the damage.

 

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

The tennis betting season begins in January and runs through to November with a hectic and punishing schedule culminating in the end-of-season finals. Four Grand Slams take place throughout the course of the year and these are also commonly referred to as 'majors'.

This high-profile quartet is enjoyed by tennis fans worldwide and has provided some of the most-talked-about and memorable moments in the sport's history. Ante-post betting is incredibly popular ahead of Grand Slam events and outright markets are generally available for these tournaments all-year round.

The four Grand Slam events are spread throughout the calendar:

1) Australian Open (January)

2) French Open (May)

3) Wimbledon (June/July)

4) US Open (August/September)

Betting on Grand Slams

There are a number of differences between Grand Slam events and standard ATP or WTA tournaments. Men's matches are played over five sets, which not only means the majority of games are much longer in duration but they also provide in-play betting opportunities.

Top 50 players have the tendency to make slow starts to games in Grand Slams (particularly the Australian Open) but the extended format affords them plenty of opportunities to mount a fightback and turn the match in their favour.

Savvy tennis bettors have found that backing favourites at a set down is a profitable way of tackling Grand Slam markets. Top players are often fitter and sharper and, despite falling behind, they are still able to outlast their opponent and subsequently progress to the next round.

Lucrative prizes are on offer for those who reach the latter stages of each of the four Grand Slam tournaments and many competitive and closely-fought matches are likely to take place. Straight-sets victories are slightly less common in these events and this undoubtedly helps punters who play the over/under games markets.

Grand Slams are played on a variety of surfaces and knowing how each player is affected by this is an essential part of successful tennis betting. We profile each of the four events and focus on the important aspects and key elements that should be considered before placing bets on any of the majors.

 

Australian Open

The season gets underway with the Australian Open, which takes place in Melbourne and is contested across the final two weeks of January. It is the largest annual sporting event in the Southern Hemisphere and is played on speedy outdoor hard courts which tends to favour big-hitters. Short rallies are the norm and powerful players tend to have an advantage.

This tournament does have the ability to throw up a few surprises, although Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have dominated this event over the past decade.

Fitness is the biggest factor in Melbourne and, before placing any bets on the tournament, it's always advised to check how your chosen player ended the previous season. Warm-up tournaments such as the Brisbane International and the Hobart International are also terrific indicators and can be extremely helpful, especially when backing players during the early rounds.

Players who do not participate in these events tend to struggle to acclimatise to the often-sweltering conditions and that increases the possibility of an early exit. On the men's side, in particular, punters should look for players who have played the fewest sets and any competitor who has benefited from a walkover or early withdrawal should be backed in the next round.

 

French Open

The second slam on the calendar is the French Open, which takes place at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris and gets underway at the end of May. It is the only one of the quartet that is staged on the clay courts, often leading to long, energy-sapping rallies.

This slow surface tends to favour Spanish and South American players and must be considered as one of the most important betting angles. Generally speaking, players growing up in these regions are taught on clay courts and, having been raised on the red stuff, they are very accomplished and are extremely familiar with the steady pace of play.

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Rafa Nadal is known as the 'King of Clay' and, as of 2018, 11 of the last 15 winners of this tournament have come from either Spain or South America, with the Majorcan being responsible for nine of those successes. In the opening couple of rounds, it could be worth siding with players hailing from these regions, especially if they are competing against opponents who boast unremarkable figures on this surface.

Whilst the gap has seemingly narrowed between clay-specialists and the rest of the pack, there is a still a clear distinction so meticulously studying players' form on this surface is advantageous and single-handedly the most important betting factor in Paris.

 

Wimbledon

Wimbledon is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar and is generally considered to be the ultimate tennis Grand Slam. It is played on the grass courts of SW19 at the end of June. It is quite a short turnaround from the French Open and the grass swing is one of the shortest stages, which often results in very little time for preparation.

The courts are always in pristine condition and this allows speedy play, which favours the big-hitters and powerful servers. Milos Raonic has had relative success at the event but has been unable to match those exploits elsewhere. The Canadian is famed for his strength and ability to overpower opponents.

Wimbledon produces the highest number of aces of any tournament and this tends to result in fewer unforced errors. As a result, shorter matches are common, especially in the opening couple of rounds.

The dominance of the big four cannot be underestimated at this tournament whilst on the women's side, Serena Williams has been hugely successful in West London, taking advantage of the natural zip provided by the grass courts.

Due to time restrictions, there are a limited number of grass-court tournaments during the run-up to Wimbledon. Players who have enjoyed success at Queens, Nottingham, Eastbourne or Hertogenbosch can always be relied upon to progress well in the third slam of the season.

Some players specialise on the grass courts and, similar to the aforementioned French Open, bettors should never underestimate players who have a preference for this surface.

 

US Open

The final slam of the year takes place at Flushing Meadows in New York and is staged on the hard courts. The US Open is a unique tournament, which stipulates that the two players must enter a tie-break in the deciding set. Players who have the stamina and those who possess a decent tie-break record should always be favoured in the betting.

Fitness can play a huge part in this event and this particular tournament is synonymous with upsets. The 2014 final between Marin Cilic and Kei Nishikori is an example of underdogs prevailing, whilst, just 12 months later, Flavia Pennetta and Roberta Vinci met in the final for an unexpected all-Italian final. Don't be afraid to back the outsiders in the US Open as this event is highly likely to throw up a few surprises along the way.

The gruelling season can take its toll on some of the top players, resulting in some surprise early exits. Punishing schedules can also lead to sloppy errors on the court, which regularly leads to longer matches taking place. This is always something to factor in.

Most players have the ability to compete on the hard courts but very few can cope with the hectic schedule, which places heavy demands on the body. Don't assume that all of the top ten players are automatically going to progress to the latter stages.

Although plenty of research is always advised, there are clear betting trends and angles that punters should consider before betting on any of the four Grand Slams. The surface plays a significant part and should always be factored into ante-post punts. There are also a number of notable differences between each of the majors and its position in the tennis calendar can also have a significant impact on the outcome.

 

for more tennis bets than you can shake your racquet at, head on over to https://www.888sport.com/

 

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

I’m not quite sure if “Super” is the word that I would use to describe Sunday’s two Premier League fixtures but they could be intriguing nonetheless. Newcastle United, now practically safe from relegation, host Arsenal – fresh from their unconvincing Europa League exploits against CSKA Moscow in Russia.

In Sunday’s later game, Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United take on Championship-bound West Bromwich Albion. The Red Devils will be looking to build on last week’s 3-2 victory at Manchester City and the Baggies may be up against it at Old Trafford. Check out our top tips on Sunday’s action below…

NEWCASTLE UNITED vs ARSENAL

Rafa Benitez’s side have been superb in 2018. The Magpies, now 10^th in the Premier League table, are on a three-match winning streak and plenty of punters will like the 9/4 available for a home win with 888sport.

Newcastle cannot compete with Arsenal on a player-by-player basis but the St James’ Park faithful will be quietly confident of success this weekend. The Gunners have struggled away from home all season and this is a difficult place for any visiting side.

Arsene Wenger’s men laboured into the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday night; CSKA Moscow were on the verge of an incredible comeback before the Gunners stepped into gear in the second half.

Aaron Ramsey got his name on the scoresheet late on and the in-form Welshman is well priced at 3/1 to score on Sunday. Arsenal will create opportunities and Ramsey could be the main beneficiary – he has been in fine form in recent weeks.

For me, the under 2.5 goals mark is in play here. Newcastle will want to keep things tight in the opening exchanges whilst Arsenal may be tired after their efforts in Russia. The selection has landed in the last three matches involving these sides and 6/5 is a very good price.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 6/5

 

MANCHESTER UNITED vs WEST BROMWICH ALBION

Did anyone predict a Manchester United revival in the second half at the Etihad Stadium last weekend? The Red Devils were dead and buried before Paul Pogba inspired the visitors to three goals in the space of 17 crazy second half minutes.

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The Frenchman scored twice before Chris Smalling snatched a third and Pogba could be the man to watch again this weekend. When confidence is flowing, he is sensational and plenty of punters will be keen to take the 7/1 for Pogba to score AND assist a teammate.

A clean sheet looks likely here but you never know with Manchester United. West Brom will be looking to keep this one respectable and it would be a huge surprise to see the Baggies push in the final third. With that in mind, the win to nil at 16/25 comes into play.

West Brom are already preparing for life in England’s second tier. Alan Pardew has gone and fan favourite Darren Moore has no time to lead the Baggies out of trouble. This could get out of hand if the visitors arrive at Old Trafford with the wrong mindset.

For me, the 4/5 on offer for United to score in both halves is the bet of the day. Mourinho’s men have been criticised for playing defensively in recent months but that cannot be the case here. West Brom are there for the taking; United could score a hatful if they go for the throat.

TIP: Man United to score in both halves @ 4/5

 

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

Premier League teams have five or six league matches remaining this season. The top four is settled, the league title is heading to Manchester City, and there are surely a few players more concerned about their fitness pre-World Cup than anything else.

The focus is the relegation battle. Several teams could yet slip into the bottom three, resulting in the loss of tens of millions. A few of those teams are in action this Saturday afternoon, here are a few thoughts on the fixtures…

BURNLEY vs LEICESTER CITY

This match is probably a last chance for Leicester to catch Burnley in the battle for ‘best of the rest’. The pair have occupied seventh and eighth for much of 2018, but the Clarets currently lead their visitors by six points.

After a poor run in the early part of the calendar year, Sean Dyche’s side have returned to their remarkable knack for winning, picking up 12 straight points. The Foxes, on the other hand, have been inconsistent of late, including a home defeat to Newcastle last time out.

These two teams will be hoping to catch the other in transition. That can make for stalemate, but I think there will be goals at Turf Moor. Both sides can relax, and we might actually get a decent match as a result.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 27/20

 

CRYSTAL PALACE vs BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION

This match is bigger than the rivalry. Crystal Palace need a win. Brighton are just a couple of points from safety after a very impressive first season in the Premier League. It could be a fiery encounter at Selhurst Park, and a significant one at that.

Neither team come into this in the best form. The visitors might take a draw, which would take them to 36 points with five matches to play, but the Eagles really need a win here or they could fall back into the bottom three. Roy Hodgson and Chris Hughton have both done well this term, this match might be their biggest test yet.

Match of the Day is going to be brilliant if these predictions come off. I’m going for goals again at Selhurst.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 27/20

 

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN vs WATFORD

Huddersfield’s draw away at Brighton last weekend has pulled them to the relative safety of 16^th. The Terriers are still in danger of relegation, though, and desperately need to pick up at least one more victory. This home fixture is an ideal opportunity to do just that against a Watford side who have struggled on the road of late.

The Hornets have taken just one point from four league matches. Just about safe on 37 points, this season has waned since their flying start. There isn’t much to get excited about right now. An end of season slide could make this campaign look far worse than it has been.

I don’t see Watford upsetting the form book here. Huddersfield haven’t scored in their last two at home, but I think David Wagner’s side will at least avoid defeat, though that might not be enough.

TIP: Huddersfield to win or draw @ 4/9

 

SWANSEA CITY vs EVERTON

Swansea are another team yet to reach the safety of 37 points. Two points taken from the last nine available leaves Carlos Carvalhal’s side sitting on 32 points, only four clear of Southampton in 18^th. Home form has been key to their revival, however, having won four straight in south Wales.

Sam Allardyce’s Toffees got only their second away win of the campaign at Stoke. That match was followed by the dire 0-0 with Liverpool. It’s been a season to forget for Everton fans who were so optimistic back in August.

This is a home win for me. Everton have nothing to play for, and Swansea will be within touching distance of another Premier League season with victory. The Swans should be able to keep the visitors quiet and are likely to score at least once.

TIP: Swansea to win @ 6/4

 

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

A new record amount of prize money of £3.21 million is being offered for the 2018 Randox Health Grand National Festival, up from £3 million in 2017 and an increase of seven per cent.

As revealed at the end of last year, race values across every Jockey Club Racecourse - including Aintree - and at all levels of the sport, are benefiting from an £8-million injection during 2018.

The Randox Health Grand National Festival commences with Grand National Thursday on April 12, when the two of the four Grade 1 (G1) highlights on this unique day of high-quality racing receive a substantial prize money boost.

The G1 Aintree Hurdle is now worth £250,000 (up £50,000 on the 2017 total). First staged in 1975, it has proved to be the perfect follow-up for horses who have won the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in March. Buveur D’Air in 2017 joined other great performers such as Annie Power, Jezki, Istabraq, Morley Street, Beech Road, Dawn Run, Gaye Brief, Monksfield, Night Nurse and Comedy Of Errors by winning both the Champion Hurdle and the Aintree Hurdle.

There is a £40,000 increase for the G1 Aintree Bowl, which now has a total prize fund of £190,000. Past winners of the three mile and a furlong chase include some of the very best performers of the modern era, with Wayward Lad, Desert Orchid, See More Business, Florida Pearl, Siliviniaco Conti and Cue Card all having been successful.

The Randox Health Fox Hunters Chase, staged over the Grand National fences on Grand National Thursday, rises to £45,000, up £5,000.

Friday, April 13 is Ladies Day at the 2018 Randox Health Grand National Festival and a £50,000 boost to the feature race, the G1 JLT Melling Chase, means it has a record total prize fund of £250,000. Established in 1991 and run over two and a half miles, the JLT Melling Chase boasts outstanding winners including Don Cossack, Sprinter Sacre, Master Minded, Moscow Flyer, Viking Flagship and Remittance Man.

The G3 Randox Health Topham Chase, run over the Grand National course on Ladies Day, is worth £140,000, up £20,000, while the G3 Alder Hey Children’s Charity Handicap Hurdle increases to £75,000 from £70,000. Theatre Territory could be one to watch in this race.

On Grand National Day, Saturday, April 14, the Randox Health Grand National is the most valuable Jump race in the world with a prize fund of £1 million. A change to the distribution of this total means more for the horses placed from fourth to tenth.

The first three horses home will still receive 80 per cent of the total prize fund, but for those finishing out of the first three, there will be increases ranging between £12,300 for fourth place (£65,000 in 2018 compared to £52,700 in 2017) to £4,000 for the tenth (£5,000 in 2018 compared to £1,000 in 2017).

The fifth will now receive £40,000 (£26,500 in 2017), the sixth £30,000 (£13,200), the seventh £20,000 (£6,800), the eighth £15,000 (£3,600) and the ninth £10,000 (£2,000).

The three-mile G1 Ryanair Stayers’ Hurdle, won by the brilliant Big Buck’s for four consecutive years between 2009 and 2012, climbs by 20 per cent to £180,000 (from £150,000) while the two main supporting handicaps - the G3 Gaskells Handicap Hurdle and the Betway Handicap Chase each receive a rise of £5,000, taking them up to £75,000.

 

Grand National Selections

With plenty of rain falling on Merseyside recently and a fair few more millimetres forecast for the rest of the week and on Grand National day itself, it should pay this year to side with horses that have proven stamina over marathon trips in soft to heavy conditions.

RAZ DE MAREE (nap) may be a 13-year-old veteran chaser but he is clearly in the form of his life at the moment, a point proved when he won the Welsh Grand National at the start of January.

The history books may be stacked against the Gavin Cromwell trained gelding but trends are there to be broken and they often are in the years when the weather plays a highly significant part in influencing the outcome of the race. No 13-year-old has won the National since Sergeant Murphy in 1923 and the only other one to win was Why Not in 1894.

Ground conditions at Aintree are currently soft but the more testing it gets the better it will suit Raz De Maree’s chances.

Raz De Maree is currently trading around the 40/1 mark. If he was a nine or ten-year-old he would be priced up at around 20/1 for this race, but remember, an enthusiastic horse that is clearly still in love with his racing has absolutely no idea what price he is.

The recently purchased SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT (nb) will be bidding to give Cheveley Park Stud owners David and Patricia Thompson their second Grand National after Party Politics famously won the race in their pink and purple colours in 1992.

Trained by Sandy Thomson in Berwickshire, Seeyouatmidnight has won seven of his career starts and all of those have come with some element of “soft” in the going description.

The ten-year-old, who was third in the 2016 Scottish Grand National, has been gradually been brought back to full health after a suspensory ligament problem.  He is top class horse on his day and has previously taken the scalps of Bristol De Mai, Blaklion and Regal Encore.

At 16/1 he has every chance of giving Scotland back-to-back victories in the Grand National. 

Saturday could be a huge day in the Premier League. The relegation battle is heating up and the fight to finish in the top four is still just about alive.

Meanwhile, Manchester City can win the title this weekend after falling short last time out – Pep Guardiola’s men have now lost three successive matches in all competitions.

Tottenham Hotspur will be difficult to beat on home soil though and it could be an intriguing battle down at Wembley on Saturday night. Here are our best bets on all three fixtures…

SOUTHAMPTON vs CHELSEA

Saints put up a decent fight against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend but Mark Hughes’ men crumbled in the closing stages.

The Welshman will try to take the positives from that defeat but Southampton fans are starting to fear the worst; Saints are now three points from safety although they do have a game in hand on Crystal Palace.

Chelsea have won just one of their last six Premier League away fixtures and there is a cloud of uncertainty surrounding Antonio Conte’s future at Stamford Bridge.

Reports claimed that the Italian had walked away from the club earlier this week but those rumours were false – for the time being at least. 888sport punters can back under 1.5 away goals at 4/5.

This could be a tepid encounter. Both teams are struggling for confidence and it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see a low-scoring affair.

The under 2.5 goals mark is set at 5/6 and this has landed in six of the last seven matches at St Mary’s Stadium. With that in mind, I fancy another close contest with very few opportunities in front of goal.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 5/6

 

LIVERPOOL vs AFC Bournemouth

Jurgen Klopp’s men have been superb in recent weeks, advancing to the Champions League semi-finals after beating Manchester City in both legs.

The Reds, led by superstar striker Mo Salah, are on the verge of something special and a comfortable home victory looks likely in this fixture. Liverpool are excellent value at 4/6 to score in both halves on Saturday evening.

Bournemouth have won just one of their previous 12 away fixtures in all competitions and another heavy defeat beckons here.

The Cherries have now secured their Premier League status for another season but Eddie Howe’s men may find the going tough here. Klopp’s side could run riot if the German gives his side the green light to attack.

Salah can inspire Liverpool to victory again here but Klopp may prefer a clean sheet. 13/10 for a home win to nil looks like the best bet; this Reds are on an upward trajectory and Loris Karius is developing into a classy goalkeeper.

This could be a comfortable night for the hosts if Liverpool are at their brilliant best.

TIP: Liverpool to win to nil @ 13/10

 

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs Manchester City

Backing against Tottenham on home soil would be foolish to say the least. The Wembley Stadium curse has been lifted this season and Mauricio Pochettino’s side could put City to the sword.

The visitors will win the title at some point in the near future but the champagne may be left on ice for another week if Tottenham have their way.

Incredibly, the Premier League awarded Harry Kane THAT dubious goal against Stoke City – much to the dismay of Liverpool fans across the country.

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Kane is a 26/25 shot to score during 90 minutes here and the Spurs man will take some stopping as he looks to catch Mo Salah in the Golden Boot race. For those who fancy him to score first, Kane is available at 10/3.

Pep Guardiola’s men have gone off the boil and they may fall short again this weekend. It would take a brave man to back against Spurs at Wembley and that is why I’m siding with the north London outfit at 29/20.

Tottenham have been the Premier League’s best side in 2018 and I fancy that excellent run of form to continue on Saturday night.

TIP: Tottenham to win @ 29/20

 

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

Can Manchester City do it? That is the big question ahead of Tuesday evening. An away goal for Liverpool will surely end any possible chance of a dramatic comeback but supporters will be hoping that Pep Guardiola’s men can do the unthinkable.

In the other fixture, Roma face an even tougher task. Reversing a 4-1 aggregate score against Barcelona is never easy – that one is as good as done and dusted already. Read below for our thoughts on this week’s Champions League action…

MANCHESTER CITY vs Liverpool

Pep’s side need a miracle. City were second best for the most part of last week’s first leg at Anfield and Liverpool were good value for their 3-0 victory.

Since that defeat, City were two nil up against United before conceding three goals in the space of 16 minutes in the second half – that result meant that City will have to wait until next weekend to win the title.

The Blues looked much sharper when Sergio Aguero came onto the field and Guardiola HAS to start the Argentina striker here.

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With 21 goals in 25 matches for City this season, he is an elite option in attack and is well priced at 33/10 to open the scoring. If Aguero is back at his brilliant best, Liverpool’s defence could be in for a very long night.

But at the other end of the field, Liverpool are ruthless. Jurgen Klopp’s offensive juggernaut is showing no signs of slowing down and it would take a brave man to back against Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mo Salah on current form.

The visitors are 19/10 to score two or more goals on Tuesday evening and Reds fans will be lapping that price up.

Predicting the outright result in a game like this is difficult. Liverpool will probably sit back and try to expose City on the break – it could be an entertaining contest for neutrals.

Loris Karius was superb against Everton on Saturday afternoon and another solid showing from Liverpool’s goalkeeper could make all the difference in the destiny of this double header.

TIP: Man City to win and both teams to score @ 29/20

CORRECT SCORE: Man City 2-1 Liverpool (Priced at 8/1 with 888sport)

 

AS Roma vs FC BARCELONA

Roma do tend to score on home soil and I can see the Italian side creating a few clear-cut opportunities against this Barcelona defence.

The La Liga outfit are still dominant on home soil but they are prone to making mistakes away from Camp Nou – Roma’s price of 4/11 to score at least once is certainly worth considering.

Roma have won just seven of their previous 15 fixtures in all competitions though and it is hard to put too much faith in Eusebio Di Francesco’s side.

Going up against Europe’s top clubs is always hard but Barcelona are in that elite bracket; this is a step too far. This is an ideal chance to restore some pride after the first leg and I expect a closer contest.

But Lionel Messi and co will not fall short in their pursuit of a semi-final berth. The hard work has already been done and Barcelona should be able to coast through this one.

Still, the Argentina man will want to steal a few headlines away from Cristiano Ronaldo and the 4/1 for Messi to score a brace is worth a second glance.

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Barcelona probably aren’t going to head to Rome and score four or five goals but there is always a danger when Messi and co are involved.

For me, the soon-to-be La Liga champions will know that the job is done and they may sneak this one by the odd goal. 23/20 for Barca to win by two goals or less is well worth taking.

TIP: Barcelona to win by 2 goals or less @ 23/20

CORRECT SCORE: Roma 1-3 Barcelona (Priced at 11/1 with 888sport)

 

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

We head into the Champions League quarter-final second legs with four of the teams requiring a minor miracle. The four others will be praying they aren’t about to fall on the wrong side of history.

What looked like a tantalising draw disappointed in the first leg but hopes of second leg drama are still high with it all on the line. Fingers are well and truly crossed for a thriller or two this week. Here are a few thoughts on Wednesday's matches…

BAYERN MUNICH vs SEVILLA

Things looked a bit shaky for Bayern when they conceded the first goal in Seville last week. Fortunately for the German giants, a Jesus Navas own goal and Thiago finish put them in command of the tie heading back to Bavaria.

Having upset the odds against Liverpool in the group stage and at Old Trafford in the last 16, Sevilla should still be confident of a result in this one. Bayern, though, boast a remarkable record at the Allianz Arena. The Bundesliga side have conceded just nine goals at home in the league all season, dropping a grand total of four points along the way.

The visitors have found themselves in a real rut domestically. It became four La Liga matches without a win after a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Celta Vigo at the weekend, Sevilla are now up against it to qualify for any form of European football for next season.

The first leg was perhaps more balanced than many would have expected, in part thanks to the hostile atmosphere at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. The two away goals landed by Bayern make it hard to see beyond comfortable progression for Jupp Heynckes’ side, however.

Sevilla need to score at least twice themselves to have any chance of making the semi-finals. I just can’t see that happening without Bayern finding the net multiple times. Goals are the best way to go, in what could be a disappointing second leg.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 4/11

 

REAL MADRID vs JUVENTUS

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to astonish. It was not just the numbers that caught the eye on this occasion, but the blend of extraordinary athleticism and skill to pull off THAT bicycle kick. Ronaldo’s brace put this tie out of Juventus’ reach as the reigning champions ran out 3-0 winners in Turin last week.

Ronaldo is at 17/20 to score anytime, but I prefer the 3/1 price to find the net first. The Portuguese superstar scored yet again at the weekend to make it 16 goals in his last eight matches for Real Madrid.

After the ecstasy of their Wembley win over Spurs, this will feel like a weak way to exit Europe for the Old Lady. Max Allegri’s side will no doubt be keen to at least put pressure on the hosts, at least to avoid a five or six nil aggregate defeat.

Prospects for Allegri’s side, however, are not good. Real Madrid have won eight of 10 in the Champions League and have lost just one match in all competitions since the end of January. Heading to Madrid with a deficit is a daunting prospect, let alone with Ronaldo in this sort of form.

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As much as I’d love to tip this as a thriller, I fear the ruthlessness of Real Madrid could make this a procession. A comeback is almost impossible for the visitors. I don’t think there’s a great deal of value in this one, but I was surprised to see Real Madrid at 3/5.

TIP: Real Madrid to win @ 3/5

 

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

Last week it was Arsenal, this week it is Atletico Madrid. The two Europa League favourites both look set to secure their spot in the semi-finals; Arsenal have a 4-1 advantage over CSKA Moscow whilst Atletico ran out 2-0 winners at home to Sporting Lisbon.

Diego Simeone’s side head our latest betting markets – punters can back the Spanish outfit at 11/10 to go on and lift the trophy in Lyon’s showpiece event on May 16^th. For now, have a read of our top tips ahead of Thursday’s action…

CSKA MOSCOW vs ARSENAL

This one has ‘banana skin’ written all over it. Fortunately for Arsenal, they did most of the hard work in the first leg on home soil and the Gunners should see this one out.

CSKA have enough quality to cause problems though and the 16/25 available for three or more goals looks like an absolute certainty. There could be plenty of chances for both sides…

As good as Arsenal were offensively in the first leg, their defensive qualities left a lot to be desired. The visitors should have a safe enough lead but nerves may start to creep in if CSKA score a couple of early goals.

The English outfit are superior in almost every department – Arsenal will be quietly confident of getting the job done and bookign their spot in the semi finals.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 16/25

 

MARSEILLE vs RB LEIPZIG

Marseille lost the first leg but plenty of punters will be getting behind the French outfit on home soil. On paper, they have the quality to put Leipzig to the sword.

The Ligue 1 side ended that game strongly and could have nicked a goal late on but for some desperate Leipzig defending. An early goal will set the tone and neutrals will be expecting big things ahead of this contest.

The Bundesliga outfit were resolute at the back in front of their home fans but standing tall at the Stade Velodrome is on another level.

Leipzig play some decent football and it would be a real shame if the visitors sit back and defend. Hopefully, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men go for the throat – they could be rewarded with an away goal. 7/10 is a decent price for over 2.5 goals.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 7/10

 

RED BULL SALZBURG vs LAZIO

Expect Red Bull Salzburg to throw the kitchen sink at Lazio – even that might not be enough to overturn the current deficit.

The Austrian side notched two away goals but conceded four after an incredible second half from Simone Inzaghi’s men. It might not be as entertaining as the first leg but it still has all the makings of a fascinating contest.

There is no real need for Lazio to go out and press on Thursday evening but I fancy the away side to secure a positive result in this one.

The Serie A outfit are the more complete unit and they showed just how dangerous they can be in the first leg in Rome. 13/20 for Lazio to win or draw in Austria is the way to go here.

TIP: Lazio to win OR draw @ 13/20

 

SPORTING LISBON vs ATLETICO MADRID

Sporting need a minor miracle to turn things around against Atletico. The Portuguese side are 2-0 down after the first leg in Madrid and the visitors will almost certainly score at least once in the second leg.

Unfortunately, this looks like it could be a rather dull affair – backing against the visitors would be foolish to say the least.

Antoine Griezmann has been outstanding for Atletico again this campaign and the France star can fire his side into the next round.

At 6/4 to score on Thursday night, he is well priced and Diego Simeone will be expecting big things from his main man. With nine goals in his previous eight Atletico appearances, Griezmann can be the difference maker once again.

TIP: Atletico to win @ 4/5

 

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