Despite the obvious draw of competitions such as the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga, the Champions League remains the focus of the most ardent football supporters across Europe and the rest of the world.

Whilst fans of every club eagerly anticipate the group stage draw to see who their side will be pitting their wits against, the knockout stages really do separate the wheat from the chaff and represent the real business end of Europe's top club competition.

With the calibre of teams on show, it goes without saying that the competition has had its fair share of classic clashes over the years and so, without further ado, below is a rundown of the most memorable ties that will live long in the memory of every football fan, no matter who they support.

2017: Barcelona 6-1 Paris Saint-Germain

With Barcelona inexplicably losing the first leg of this last 16 clash 4-0, it looked extremely unlikely that the Spanish giants would be able to turn things around against a PSG side full of confidence and flair.

After leading 3-0 after 50 minutes, Edinson Cavani did his best to dampen Barca's spirit with a 62nd-minute goal but the Uruguayans' effort was to no avail as Sergi Roberto scored in added time to send the Nou Camp into raptures.

Upon the final whistle, Unai Emery was left with his head in his hands, Rio Ferdinand almost trashed the BT Sports studio with his wild celebrations and Luis Enrique remarked in his post-match interview that "this is a sport for crazy people...I'd like to cry, but tears do not come out." Cracking stuff.

 

2012: Barcelona 2-2 Chelsea

Under Roberto Di Matteo, Chelsea had a newfound steely resolve and proved this in the first leg of the 2012 semi-final with a narrow 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge. However, the Blues found themselves 2-0 down at half-time with goals from the sublime Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets.

As if things couldn't get any worse for Chelsea, their chances of progressing through to the final suffered a further blow when skipper John Terry was sent off for kneeing Alexis Sanchez.

In a miraculous turn of events, Ramires brilliantly chipped Victor Valdes before Chelsea misfit Fernando Torres ran the full length of the pitch and coolly slotted the ball home, which consequently led to much-loved pundit Gary Neville making some of the strangest sounds we've ever heard.

 

2005: AC Milan 3-3 Liverpool

Touted by many (not including Manchester United fans) as the most dramatic and memorable Champions League tie in the modern era, Liverpool's 2005 Champions League triumph still feels like some sort of distant, vivid dream.

In the Premier League that year, Liverpool had finished a mind-boggling 37 points behind champions Chelsea and 'boasted' a squad that consisted of Djimi Traore, Steve Finnan and Harry Kewell. When you consider that Mo Salah is the red-hot favourite at 3/4 to win the top flight's Golden Boot award, it's fair to say that things have improved somewhat since then.

After finding his team 3-0 down, Steven Gerrard grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and, along with Vladimir Smicer and Xabi Alonso, put himself on the scoresheet to force a tense penalty shootout.

With spaghetti legs that Anfield legend Bruce Grobbelaar would have been proud of, Jerzey Dudek went on to provide a penalty-saving masterclass and Liverpool lifted their fifth and most remarkable cup European Cup in their history.

 

2017: Manchester City 5-3 AS Monaco

In a game that saw Manchester City come from behind twice, this eight-goal thriller marked the arrival of Leonardo Jardim's young, energetic side onto the European stage. Sadly, this ultimately meant that other clubs ended up nicking their best players - City themselves got in on the act, acquriing Portuguese talisman Bernardo Silva.

Nevertheless, the game between the two teams will live long in the memory, and goals from Sergio Aguero, John Stones and Leroy Sane completed one of the most memorable last 16 clashes in the history of the Champions League.

Unfortunately for Pep Guardiola's men, City lost 3-1 in the return leg three weeks later and were ultimately sent packing. With the Premier League title all but secured, Pep and co will be aiming to win this year's competition and bookmakers tend to agree that they will - Manchester City are EVS to reach the final in Kiev on the 26th May.

 

2013: Borussia Dortmund 3-2 Malaga

Bearing in mind that Jurgen Klopp's men had blitzed through a group consisting of Real Madrid and Manchester City and breezed past Shakhtar Donetsk in the last 16, Champions League new boys Malaga looked easy pickings on paper.

Fortunately, football isn't played on paper and, after the first leg in Spain ended goallessly, Dortmund were 2-1 down with eight minutes left on the clock, needing two goals to progress into the semi-final.

After Marco Reus equalised in the 91st minute, the world sensed that something big was about to happen and that came in the form of Brazilian centre-back Felipe Santana, who completed the comeback two minutes later whilst being all of two yards offside. After some crazy celebrations, Jurgen Klopp said: "My assistants and me were looking at each other in shock and saying 'this is crazy' [...] this is the best I've ever felt."

 

1999: Juventus 2-3 Manchester United

Whilst every football fan on the planet will remember Manchester United's Champions League final victory over Bayern Munich in their iconic treble-winning season, their semi-final clash with Juventus was arguably the game that won them the competition.

As Manchester United captain, Roy Keane dragged the team through more games than you can shake a stick at but his performance in this match is rightly considered by many to be his best in a United shirt.

After Filippo Inzaghi controversially put the 'Old Lady' 2-0 in front within the first 11 minutes of the game, Keane was instrumental in United's resurgence, playing a vital role in both Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke's goals as well as netting one for himself.

As many footballing aficionados will know, Keane was also booked in the game and missed the final as a result but was in attendance to watch his team beat Bayern Munich in one of the most unforgettable finals in the modern era.

 

More of the Same? There's Only One Way To Find Out...

With this year's Champions League reaching fever pitch, we now know the quarter final line-up. Despite the fact that Tottenham couldn't manage to get past a dogged Juventus side, an English side is still 13/10 to lift the Champions League trophy come May, although Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Barcelona will have something to say about that.

Whilst it's becoming increasingly difficult to pick a winner, one thing that we can be certain of is that there are plenty of twists left in this year's Champions League tale so sit back, enjoy the ride and, if your team doesn't win, don't fret - we have a World Cup to look forward to after this. Result.

 

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

With the five-day confirmations just a week away on April 9^th and the final declarations being made at 10am on April 12^th, we take a look at the probable final line-up with a brief runner-by-runner guide.

There is a maximum field of 40 runners plus four reserves - the second part of our Grand National preview is available here...

Total Recall

A fast-improving chaser from the yard that won the Grand National in 2005.

An easy winner over hurdles at Leopardstown, plus the Ladbrokes Gold Trophy Handicap back in December.  He fell three from home in the Gold Cup.

Blaklion

Fourth in the last year’s renewal. Rated 9lbs higher this year, but enjoys these fences and has been a popular choice since winning the Becher Chase here in December. Will be of interest if Haydock has not left its mark on him.

Tiger Roll

Recorded his second Cheltenham Festival win when romping home in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase. Will stay the trip and has finished in the top three in 10 of his 15 chase starts to date.

Minella Rocco

Was runner-up in the 2017 Cheltenham Gold Cup, but hasn’t really built on that since. Former winner of the 4m National Hunt Chase for novices at the Cheltenham Festival which proves he can stay.

The Last Samuri

Came second in the 2016 Grand National, but finished well back in 16^th place 12 months ago. Loves the track and fences and should give another bold showing.

Anibale Fly

Never raced at Aintree and done most of his racing in Ireland. Recently came third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

From a shrewd stable and his Paddy Power Chase victory last Christmas gives him leading claims.

Seeyouatmidnight

Has won or placed six times from eight chase starts but has only had one run since March last year due to a ligament problem.

Was third in the 2016 Scottish National and has beaten some notable scalps. He is a strong contender at a good price.

Gold Present

Notched up back-to-back wins at Newbury and Ascot in December. He fell in last year's Topham Chase and hails from a stable that has never won the race.

Regal Encore

Ran into 8^th place in the Grand National in 2017. Gets in off the same mark so every chance he could be in the mix again, however significant improvement will be required to go seven places better this year.

Ucello Conti

Went off the favourite the race 12 months ago, but unseated at the 22nd fence when in mid division. Rated 2lbs lower this season.

Was also fourth in the 2016 Becher Chase over these fences and knows them well.

Gas Line Boy

Won the Grand Sefton over the Grand National fences in December and stays all day. Came 5^th in last year’s race and his trainer Ian Williams has just hit a purple patch at present. A respected each-way player.

Rathvinden

Winner of the Cheltenham National Hunt Challenge Chase saw his odds sliced from 50/1 to 20/1 in a blink of the eye.  Has been running with credit in decent Grade One races in Ireland and has won four of his ten chase starts.

Vieux Lion Rouge

Was well-fancied for the race in 2017 and finished a fair 6th that day, beaten 27 lengths. Only rated a pound higher and has won over these fences before (2016 Becher Chase). Campaigned quietly this season and could easily spring an upset.

I Just Know

Sue Smith’s runner has an excellent record with eight wins or places from ten chase starts and recently won over 3m6f at Catterick so clearly has stamina and solid jumping ability. Stable won the race in 2013 with Aurora’s Encore.

Vicente

Winner of the Scottish National twice before and owned by Trevor Hemmings, who has won this race three times in the past.

Unseated at the first fence 12 months ago and may be routed back up to Ayr again.

Pleasant Company

Came 9th in 2017 and off a pound lower mark would have a chance of improving on that run. Comes from a top stable but it is debatable whether his stamina held out 12 months ago.

The Dutchman

Winner of the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock in January, but pulled-up in the Grand National Trial there last time in desperate going. Only had 8 chase runs and been placed in the top 3 in 6 of those. Acts on most ground and could be an interesting outsider for the Tizzard team.

Milansbar

Will be ridden by the new star of the 2017/18 season, Bryony Frost. Won the Classic Chase at Warwick in January, but failed to follow-up next time in the Eider Chase. Finished second over 4m1f in the Midlands National last time out so clearly has no stamina issues.

Vintage Clouds

Fourth in the Welsh National and has won at Aintree in the past. A very consistent sort and his trainer has won the National before. Ran well at the Festival and is the type to still be galloping hard at the end when others have cried enough.

Raz De Maree

He came 8th in the 2014 running and unseated last year and this will be his last chance to take the spoils.

Clearly in great heart this season at the age of thirteen – a point proven with his marvellous win in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.

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

With the five-day confirmations just a week away on April 9^th and the final declarations being made at 10am on April 12^th, we take a look at the probable final line-up with a brief runner-by-runner guide.

There is a maximum field of 40 runners plus four reserves - check out our thoughts on the first half of the field here...

 

Shantou Flyer

Notched up four second place finishes on the bounce this season, the last of which was at the Cheltenham Festival but all were on heavy ground. He pulled-up in last year's race and the suspicion is that connections will run him in the Topham instead.

 

Warriors Tale

Second in the Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster in January but this distance is somewhat of an unknown for him.  Recently bought by leading Grand National owner, Trevor Hemmings, and comes from the Paul Nicholls yard that won this in 2012.

 

Buywise

Regarded by many as somewhat of an enigma but on his day he can spring a surprise. Well handicapped on old form and was 12th in the 2016 running.  Don’t expect to see anything of him until very late in the race.

 

Alpha Des Obeaux

Ran second in the 2016 Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and came 8th in the 2017 Irish National. This Irish runner is often seen in Graded races and his yard took this race in 2016 for the same connections. Not one to dismiss lightly.

 

Baie Des Iles

Katie Walsh’s third on Seabass remains the closest any female jockey has come to landing the world’s greatest steeplechase and she will be hoping to go two better here on the seven-year-old mare trained by her husband. No seven-year-old has won since 1940 and the last winning mare was in 1951.

 

Captain Redbeard

Won the Tommy Whittle Chase this season at Haydock Park.  He is 9lbs higher for that win but ran a creditable second in the Peter Marsh off this rating next time. He came 6th in the Grand Sefton so has handled these fences this fences before. There are certainly a lot worse 100/1 chances around.

 

Carlingford Lough

Former winner of the Grade One Punchestown Gold Cup and has run well in some top company during his career, notching up more than £500k in the process. Hopelessly out of form this season but does have plenty of back class should he rediscover it.

 

Perfect Candidate

The eleven-year-old was pulled up last year but does have 6lbs less to carry this time and was a good winner at Cheltenham in Nov over 3m3f. He has only pulled-up twice in his 30 start career.

 

Tenor Nivernais

Came 17^th in the race 12 months ago and gets in off the same mark this year. Stable won the race in 2009 with Mon Mome but this runner does not appear to be in the same league as him.

 

Go Conquer

Has been aimed at this race all season and goes into the race in good form having won two of his four starts since October. Often front-runs but will his stamina last out in this marathon test?

 

Acapella Bourgeois

He was a 32 length Grade One winner at Navan last season. However, he has been the beaten favourite many times this season and is a pretty unreliable sort at the moment.  Look elsewhere.

 

A Genie In Abottle

Ran well to be second in the BobbyJo Chase at Fairyhouse in February and skipped the Irish Grand National in favour of a tilt at this. Has beaten Tiger Roll and Mala Beach this season so is certainly no slouch. There is however an unknown quantity about the trip.

 

Chase The Spud

Won the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter last season and started this season off with another win at Haydock but has subsequently been pulled up at Chepstow and Newcastle. He probably needs rain of biblical proportions to figure here.

 

Saint Are

Saint Are is an Aintree stalwart and has run there 12 times including the last two Grand Nationals where he fell the first year but was a very respectable third place finisher last year. His experience over the fences will be invaluable and you can see him being in the shake up again this year.

 

Beeves

Has the experience over the national fences having competed in the Becher Chase in 2016 when finishing in eighth after a clear round. Finished off last season in fine form with wins at Fakenham and Perth. Trainer Jenny Candlish does seem to peak around this time every year so this one is worth a precautionary look on the day.

 

Virgilio

Virgilio has run at Aintree six times, winning three times and finishing third on a fourth occasion. He has put in two poor runs this season but has since undergone a wind operation which may or may not revive his fortunes.

 

Maggio

Maggie sprang a 50/1 shock victory in 2016 in the race just before the Grand National after he failed to make the cut for the main event itself. This year the thirteen-year-old has finally made the race proper but you would suspect he would want some juice in the ground again.

 

Pendra

Pendra has only been seen three times since December 2015. He ran in the 2016 Grand National and finished 13^th, came second in the 2017 Kim Muir, then ran 15^th in the Kim Muir this season. He is clearly a fragile sort and winning this race looks an extremely tall order.

 

Final Nudge

Third in the Welsh National and gets in off a low weight here. Acts on most ground and finished in the top three in 7 of this 10 chase starts. Likely to get overlooked in the betting because he doesn’t come from a well known stable.

 

Childrens List

Fair bits of form, but pulled-up in the Grand National Trial at Punchestown in February. Certainly does not look like Willie Mullins’ best chance and most be a doubtful starter.

 

Lord Windermere

Winner of the 2014 Cheltenham Gold Cup and was 7th in this race 12 months ago. This will be his third attempt at the race. Dangerous to ignore purely because of what he has achieved in the past and the fact that he could just recapture that old spark.

 

Double Ross

He finished fourth in the Kim Muir Handicap Chase at Cheltenham last time out showing signs of his old ability. His trainer is no stranger to sending out Grand National winners having done so twice before.

 

Houblon Des Obeaux

Finished in 10th place in last year's Grand National and will be carrying 6lb less this year. Venetia William’s eleven-year-old has contested some top races over the years but you do get the distinct impression that his form is waining nowadays.

 

Splash Of Ginge

A decent handicapper that won the BetVictor Gold Cup at Cheltenham this season and ran a blinder at The Festival last time out. Very borderline whether he will get in but should he do so he would be a very popular winner for local businessman John Nield.

This is when the Premier League should be at its most interesting. Teams have either six or seven matches to play. Everything should be on the line. Unfortunately, this year it’s a little different.

Few teams have much to play for even with over a month left, and the main storylines could well be about the contests for World Cup places.

The relegation battle is all we really have. That’s okay, of course, because it’s still a fierce competition in the bottom-half. We’re here to look at this weekend’s 3pm kick-offs, so here are a few thoughts…

AFC Bournemouth vs CRYSTAL PALACE

Late heartbreak at home to Liverpool makes this match even more significant for Crystal Palace. Roy Hodgson could see his team drop into the bottom three if they fail to win here. The Eagles picked up a vital win in their last away match, and they will be positive of doing the same on the south coast.

Bournemouth were held by Watford last weekend. Eddie Howe has comfortably guided his team to safety once again, however, despite only winning six matches at home so far this season. The Cherries have only won once in their last five, and it will be interesting to see how they deal with Wilfried Zaha here.

I like the 11/20 price on Palace to avoid defeat. Bournemouth have not been at their best of late and could begin to relax a bit.

TIP: Crystal Palace to win OR draw @ 11/20

 

BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION vs Huddersfield Town

Brighton have suffered back-to-back defeats that have lurched them into the relegation conversation again. A stellar run took the Seagulls to 34 points, which probably has them a win from safety, but a daunting set of remaining fixtures has Chris Hughton’s side under pressure in this one.

The visiting Terriers have taken just a solitary point in four league matches. David Wagner’s team look the most likely to drop into the bottom three should Stoke or Southampton pull off a dramatic escape.

Brighton have been great at home all season. I expect that to continue here. It might be a low-scoring affair, but it’ll be enough to get Hughton across the line.

TIP: Brighton to win @ 4/5

 

LEICESTER CITY vs Newcastle United

Consecutive wins to nil have put Newcastle a whisker away from safety. Amid the talks of takeover and discontent around the club, stability of another Premier League campaign is a necessity. Rafael Benitez has worked his magic.

Leicester recovered from a bit of a winter blip to go unbeaten in four, winning their last two. Claude Puel’s side are playing fast-paced, quick-break football that made the Foxes a sporting sensation. Riyad Mahrez is back somewhere near his best, and the Algerian could be the difference maker here.

The hosts are without a win in three straight at home. The 19/20 price to pick up three points seems good value, though, given that Newcastle have picked up two points from the last 12 available on the road.

TIP: Leicester to win @ 19/20

 

Stoke City vs TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

A trip to the blustery Potteries used to be fearsome. That intimidation has waned as Stoke City have dropped from mid-table side to relegation candidates. Stoke have not won at home since January and have only been victorious at the Bet365 Stadium five times all season.

Spurs head to the West Midlands full of confidence. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have the best record in the league in 2018, and as good as confirmed their Champions League status for next season with an historic win over Chelsea last weekend.

via GIPHY

Stoke put up a bit of resistance against Arsenal. Unfortunately for Paul Lambert, Spurs are simply a better team than Arsenal. This could get ugly.

TIP: Tottenham to win @ 8/25

 

WATFORD vs Burnley

Watford’s draw with Bournemouth last weekend took them to 37 points. That should be safe this season. The Hornets flirted with a special campaign in the opening months, but the turbulence around Marco Silva’s final weeks in the job have meant they will have to settle for a comfortable mid-table finish.

Burnley were the latest team to beat West Brom in their last outing. Sean Dyche’s case for Manager of the Year is only getting stronger, and the Clarets could yet catch Arsenal in sixth. Three straight wins have kept Burnley in seventh in this remarkable campaign.

The hosts are unbeaten in five on home soil. Burnley have made a habit of defying odds over the last two seasons, but I fancy Watford to put their Premier League status beyond doubt.

TIP: Watford to win OR draw @ 33/100

 

West Bromwich Albion vs SWANSEA CITY

West Brom sacked Alan Pardew this week but are yet to name a replacement for this match. The Baggies are already preparing for the Championship next season having won just one of their last 30 Premier League matches.

Carlos Carvalhal takes his Swansea team to the midlands boasting a great recent record, despite taking one point from their last two. The Welsh club have picked up more points in 2018 than Chelsea and Arsenal.

It’s meltdown time at the Hawthorns. I don’t think Pardew’s departure will change too much, but it could be enough to end the losing streak.

TIP: Swansea to win OR draw @ 4/7

 

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

Ex Manchester United and England defender Paul Parker believes there is not only a significant chasm in class between Manchester City and his former club on the pitch this season but in the technical area too. 

“When you look at Pep and Jose you have to say there is a massive gap. Pep is evolving and he realises that the game offers him more scope now with what he wants to do because of how the game is going. Whereas Mourinho as a coach he’s not really evolved and he’s still doing what he did at Porto and Inter Milan.

“You have to move on. Sir Alex moved on and got different coaches who had different coaches and because of that United still won titles and still dominated. You want players to move on and to improve but really it comes down to getting the right teacher, a person who doesn’t only believe in himself but in the abilities of the player and what they can do”.

The respected right-back, who won every domestic honour going during his five years at Old Trafford, does not solely attribute the gulf to the two coach’s very different methods and philosophies however. Football too plays a part.

“Without a doubt the modern game suits Pep Guardiola more than Jose Mourinho. The style of it. The lack of physicality. Mind games no longer seem to work and trying to stop the play with niggly fouls, well, the referees can see through all of that now and will penalise.

"The Premier League gives teams who want to play football every opportunity to do so and that’s because it’s a business now and customers want value for money. If people don’t get entertained they will go elsewhere.”

The E word has blighted Mourinho’s two year stint with the Red Devils with many critical of the stolid fare he favours at a club known for getting fans off their seats. Parker goes further and insists that his cautious approach renders the signing of even the world’s most exciting talents pointless.

“Manchester United could go and sign the best player in the world but is that player going to be allowed to play and show why he’s the best player in the world? No matter how much is spent will those players be allowed to show what their best strengths are?

"That’s the big problem. We see this all the time and these players come and it doesn’t work out because they’re no longer the players they were at their former clubs. That comes down to Mourinho’s style of football.”

Such thinking places serious doubt on a strongly rumoured summer move materialising.

“You have to wonder whether Gareth Bale would fit in. Where would he play? He’s not a wide player anymore and likes to do his work through the middle. There are a lot of players who are already placed in the middle and the problem is a need for someone who is happy to provide width and stay out wide. Martial wants to come in.

"Rashford wants to come in and is very good at it. Bale would just be another player who wants to be a centre-forward.

“From a marketing side it makes sense but you have to ask if Gareth Bale would be comfortable there and given freedom. He’s not a player to track back and his first thought is always offensive and to run at people with pace and will he be given a chance to do that?”

Parker was speaking ahead of a momentous Manchester derby this weekend that will see the blue half of the city crowned champions should they win. It’s a fixture that pits each side’s most instrumental figures together in a fascinating midfield battle yet according to the 53 year old pundit it’s a match-up that’s woefully one-sided to United’s great cost.

“The gap between Pogba and De Bruyne could end up a nineteen-point gap. We’re talking about potential up against class. There are good players but to become a great player you have to do it consistently week in and week out and that’s what De Bruyne does.”

On the Frenchman’s struggles this term absolutely no punches are pulled for a player yet to justify his enormous fee.

“Can Pogba become the player he wants to be? He can but his priority has got to be his football – that should stick out more than his hair. It’s fine to have all the haircuts and emojis and whatever but to earn all that go and do your talking on the pitch. Everybody knows he can do it because everybody saw him at Juventus. He was fantastic in that style of play and the players around him helped him.

"So he needs help and his first priority when he’s asked what he wants to be and replies that he wants to be the best player in this team is to say, ‘well forget your hairdresser for a while’. Just go out there and become a player first then you can do what you want with your hair because people won’t notice anyway because they’ll only see the player.”

“De Bruyne won’t do anything with his hair and he doesn’t have an emoji: he’s playing football and when you talk about the best five players in the world you’ll mention Messi, Ronaldo, Salah and De Bruyne will be in there. When you mention Pogba people will have a little bit of a laugh then talk about his hair and the problems he has with Mourinho. That’s not really what you should be known for when you cost £89m.”

It can be assumed then that Pogba would be missing from the engine room in a combined City and United XI if selected by Parker. In the event only one man in Red makes the grade.

“I would go with just the goalkeeper. Under pressure you can always hang your hat on David De Gea making the save. That’s why he’s going to win the Manchester United Player of the Year award again for the fourth time.”

 

Paul Parker’s Quick-Fire Questions

Score predictions for the Manchester derby?

"3-1 to City." (Currently priced at 23/2 with 888sport)

 

First goal-scorer?

"Raheem Sterling." (Currently priced at 5/1 with 888sport)

 

Who will win the FA Cup this season?

"I’ve got a funny feeling for Spurs." (Currently priced at 2/1 with 888sport)

 

Who will win the Champions League?

"Real Madrid." (Currently priced at 11/4 with 888sport)

 

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

The Premier League is stuck in the shadow of European football this week. The glamour of knockout football supersedes the grind of domestic action, particularly when the league is lacking competitiveness.

Relegation is the only point of interest with over a month of the season remaining. Draw your own conclusions from that.

The two matches coming up this Sunday have plenty riding on them, however. Here are a few thoughts and tips…

ARSENAL vs SOUTHAMPTON

Arsenal fall into the bracket of nothing to play for. The Gunners are again left in limbo during the latter weeks of the Premier League season, with the Europa League their primary focus. It has been a season of turmoil at the Emirates again.

The visiting Southampton are in trouble. They suffered a 3-0 defeat to relegation rivals, West Ham, last weekend. That was the same score line that Arsenal dispatched Stoke by. The Potters currently accompany the Saints in the bottom three. Southampton’s new manager, Mark Hughes, faces an uphill battle for survival after the disaster at the London Stadium last time out.

Southampton lost 3-0 away to Newcastle in the match before the West Ham drubbing. Their road record has not been poor this year, though, having been hard to beat for the majority of the campaign, but – as is the tale of their season – they have struggled to convert that into victories.

Despite another underwhelming campaign, Arsenal have been very good at the Emirates. Only the two Manchester clubs have picked up more points at home, and the Gunners’ only two defeats in front of their own fans have come at the hands of Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho’s teams.

What may give Southampton a glimmer of an upset, however, is the focus on the Europa League. Arsene Wenger may well opt to rest players like Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey. Unfortunately for Hughes’ side, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a certain starter. The former Dortmund marksman has scored four in his last three outings - he is 10/13 to extend that run this weekend.

Southampton are desperate now. Hughes was appointed for that quick managerial boost, but the disappointment of last weekend leaves the club in the mire. A dramatic turnaround for this match is a necessity for Saints, anything less could see them cut adrift should Crystal Palace and Huddersfield pick up points.

I expect the visitors to chase the game here. Hughes will have his side playing on the front foot more than his predecessor, which may be a disaster, but it certainly makes goals likely.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 16/25

CORRECT SCORE: Arsenal 2-2 Southampton (Priced at 13/1 with 888sport)

 

Chelsea vs WEST HAM UNITED

West Ham head to Stamford Bridge in their most positive mood for a while. The unrest of the crowd prior to the international break was brushed into the annals of history with the victory over Southampton, which put the Hammers five points clear of the bottom three with seven matches left to play.

Chelsea, on the other hand, are in a muddle again. Even in their darkest times, the Blues have always been able to fall back on their record against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge. It was not just the way they lost to the Lilywhites last weekend, but the manner of it. Antonio Conte has lost the fans, and it’s a matter of time until there’s a change in the Chelsea dugout.

The hosts are in a bad way. Nine league defeats has left them with no hope of Champions League qualification, meaning their attention is likely to turn to the FA Cup. Four of those defeats have come at Stamford Bridge, too.

West Ham have really struggled on the road of late, however. David Moyes’ side have lost three straight away from their controversial home, conceding 11 goals in the process. The attack has been an issue, too, despite the obvious talent.

Balancing these options has been a challenge for Moyes, who will be without Michail Antonio for the remainder of the season. Antonio could have been a danger on the counter attacking Chelsea’s weak left.

Without Champions League football to worry about, Chelsea should be near full strength for this one. Conte has been unable to get the team playing as a unit in the last few months. The midfield is too often flimsy, while their play in the final third has been all too dependent on moments of individual magic.

A lot of this match depends on which version of Marko Arnautovic is on show. If the Austrian is anything like his inspired best from last weekend, he will tear this Chelsea defence apart. Chelsea’s uninspiring form – which has seen them lose four of six in the league – makes the visitors good value.

TIP: West Ham to win or draw @ 29/10

CORRECT SCORE: Chelsea 1-2 West Ham United (Priced at 25/1 with 888sport)

 

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

It is a bold claim, and especially so for a young player who has so far struggled to live up to the high expectations that accompanied his £25m move from PSV Eindhoven last summer. Andrei Kanchelskis, though, is insistent, and considering the Ukranian regularly tore full-backs apart with his devastating wing-play in arguably Sir Alex Ferguson’s greatest United side, then who are we to argue? 

His analysis on the specialist art is well worth listening to, with an expertise amassed from playing in Ukraine, England and Scotland for nearly two decades at the very highest level. 

And that makes his assessment of Anthony Martial, the Reds’ other big-money exciting prospect, all the more pertinent. “Martial is no out and out winger like Ryan Giggs was in his early days. His best position is attacking down the middle, that is where his future will be.”

There will be many Stretford End residents who heartily agree, though sadly for the 13 times Premier League champions the debate has been rather moot of late, with Louis Van Gaal’s side rarely threatening in the attacking third whether that be out wide or central. Tuesday night’s 3-0 triumph over Stoke hints at better things to come, and will certainly have been a relief for the Dutch coach whose pragmatism was beginning to test even the most patient of supporters. Kanchelskis is sympathetic to the paying public who are used to more ambitious fare.

“I can understand the fans’ frustration because for a long time Manchester United dominated English football and the Premier League and won trophies. There have been some difficulties for the club after Sir Alex Ferguson, who was obviously a great man and worked for a long time at Man United. The fans loved him. Now that’s finished they have made some changes and they have lost their intimidation factor.” 

“If you get the ball out wide with wingers and play more aggressive there is more chance of scoring goals. Now it’s normal for Manchester United to keep possession, pass, pass, backpass. There is no attacking. This is a different system and now it is cautious. We played 4-4-2 with wingers – myself, Ryan Giggs, Ronaldo, David Beckham. There were so many good wingers. But Van Gaal doesn’t want to play with wingers.”

He may not hug the touchline in the style of a traditional number 11, but one creative talent Van Gaal has given a chance to this season is Jesse Lingard. His emergence on the United left has been a rare bright spot in a largely disappointing campaign, but Kanchelskis clearly remains sceptical on how much impact the home-grown 23 year old can have.

“I know he is a good player but not so consistent. He plays well one game, then the next his level drops, followed by a poor game. Great players maintain their level. You need to play at a certain level for Manchester United in every game like Dennis Irwin, season after season. Lingard must be consistent if he is to make it at Old Trafford.”

It can safely be assumed that these enacting standards will be required next term should the red half of Manchester wish to challenge their neighbours City and more so after the Blues confirmed this week they have secured the services of Pep Guardiola. 

The Bayern boss arrives with a gold seal of excellence, having won the Champions League on two occasions and transformed the modern game as we know it. Kanchelskis insists however that England will ultimately prove to be the managerial maestro’s litmus test.

“The midfield he had a Barcelona maybe made it easy for him. In Spain there are only three teams so there is a high per cent that you’ll win the league. At Man City it is different because there are five or six clubs and even big surprises like Leicester City. So in England we will see if he’s a good coach or not so good coach.” 

Guardiola in the City technical area will add even more spice to next year’s Manchester derbies and, having played in several himself, Kanchelskis will be well aware of what will be at stake. Yet for the likeable 47 year old nothing compares to the hostility and passion that emits from a local affair 200 miles north.

“I’ve played in a lot of derbies – United v City, Everton against Liverpool and in front of 100,000 fans in Moscow - but for me Celtic v Rangers was the best atmosphere and the toughest to play in.”

Quick-fire questions

How will Manchester United fare against Chelsea?
United to win 2-1

Bet on Manchester United against Chelsea

Who will win the 2015/16 Premier League Golden Boot?
Aguero

Bet on 2015/16 Premier League Golden Boot

Who will win the 2015/16 Premier League?
Manchester City

Bet on 2015/16 Premier League winner

Who will win this years Champions League?
Bayern Munich

Bet on Champions League winner

who will win the 2016 European Championships?
Germany

Bet on 2016 European Championships winner

 

 

Former Red Devils defender David May believes a lack of leadership on the pitch can partly be blamed for the vast sixteen point gap that presently exists between the red and blue halves of Manchester.

The two-time Premier League winner’s theory would certainly explain Jose Mourinho’s highly publicised ‘rant’ a fortnight ago that saw the Portuguese coach openly criticise his players while additionally detailing the club’s limited achievements in recent years. Perhaps with nobody telling cold, hard truths on the pitch Mourinho felt he must do it himself?

Whatever his motivations it was a press conference that many disapproved of with widespread accusations that the United boss was guilty of talking down his club and personnel. 

“It depends on how you interpret it. I’ve heard some people say that it was the right thing to do. Others said it was the wrong thing to do. But that’s who Mourinho is and if he wants to call the players out in the press that’s his prerogative. He’s the manager of Manchester United and gets paid millions of pounds a year to do that so he has the right to say what he wants. If people don’t like it…tough. It’s down to the players to respond to it.”

“I don’t know and the press don’t know but he might be absolutely ripping their heads off in the dressing room and I’m sure at times he has done that. He’s looking for a reaction. So when they then go out onto the pitch and don’t do what they’ve been told to do maybe he got fed up with it and thought ‘you know what, the only way I can get a reaction out of them is by bringing it all out in the press’.”

The player most being alluded to here of course is full-back Luke Shaw who, not for the first time, has been singled out with negative comments from his manager. May is not wholly sympathetic to the England star’s situation. 

“I think Luke is a top, top player and one of the best left-backs in the country but is he doing what Jose is asking him to do? That’s why it looks like they’ve fell out or rather people have perceived that they’ve fallen out because whenever there is a substitution it’s Luke who is taken off. After the Brighton game Jose actually said that they had worked all week on something and Luke hadn’t done it. That’s from the manager’s mouth.”

It would not be hugely surprising if the 22 year old’s immediate future lies away from Old Trafford and with United facing the possibility of a trophy-less season more departures are expected too as they make way for costly new arrivals. May is anticipating a minimum of four.

“I think we need another midfielder and a left-back would be sensible. Obviously Ash is doing ever so well but it depends on what happens with Luke. We need another centre-half too and a centre-forward to put pressure on Lukaku. I think Lukaku has been outstanding to score better than one in two when he’s up there on his own. He should be pretty pleased with his season so far”

Mention of Ashley Young prompts talk of this summer’s World Cup in Russia and with the rejuvenated, reinvented talent firmly in contention for a plane seat May is happy to go one step further and insist he’s currently ahead of all of his rivals.

“Ash deserves a starting spot in the World Cup, definitely. I think he’s been absolutely brilliant. If you’re playing regularly as a left-back for Manchester United then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be playing for England. He’s come on leaps and bounds and you would never have thought eighteen months ago that he’d be pushing Luke Shaw out of the way and making the position his own.”

In an otherwise disappointing campaign for the Mancunian giants Young is not the only player to provide cause for optimism. Up front Marcus Rashford continues to greatly impress and the lightning quick superstarlet will be keen to get his teeth into the world’s meanest back-lines on the world’s largest stage this June. The ex-Blackburn centre-back who now enjoys presenting for MUTV is clearly relishing the prospect. 

“Depending on how far England get that will determine how many goals Rashford scores but if you look at the Euros in 2016 he terrorised the right-backs in very little game-time. Given the opportunity – and he will be given that opportunity – he can be the brightest star for England in the World Cup”
Another supreme talent expected to shine at the World Cup is France’s Paul Pogba and should that happen United fans will understandably wonder why they don’t see such performances on a regular basis closer to home. 

Pogba is not the only big piece in the puzzle that has struggled to fit in to a side studded with big-name stars this season though at least in the case of Alexis Sanchez the Chilean has the excuse of still finding his bearings. Appreciating this May is on this occasion sympathetic, believing it is only a matter of time before we see the energetic brilliance that became the norm in North London.

“Personally I think he’s trying too hard. He wants to be involved in everything but he needs to be told that standing still is a good position. He’s an absolutely fantastic player and everybody knows that after what he did with Arsenal but he needs to take a step back and enjoy it. He’s forever looking for the ball but sometimes you have to let the ball find you”

David May’s quick-fire questions

Score prediction for Manchester United v Swansea?
3-0 - Bet on Manchester United v Swansea

Who will be the first goal-scorer?
Lukaku 

Who will win the FA Cup this season?
Manchester United - Bet on who will win the FA Cup

Who will win the Champions League?
Juventus - Bet on who will win the Champions League

 

The Champions League returns this week. We are down to the final eight in Europe’s premier club competition. Unlike the last 16, the quarter-finals are jammed into one week, leaving us with a couple of fixtures on Tuesday and Wednesday.

That’s good news for fans who enjoy a multi-screen session. We’ll be doing just that, so here are a few thoughts and tips from Wednesday’s ties…

FC BARCELONA vs AS Roma

Barcelona are unbeaten in 30 La Liga matches this season. That stretch was nearly ended by Sevilla on Saturday, but a certain Lionel Messi snatched a 2-2 draw. The Catalan giants are a cosy nine points clear atop Spain’s first division and are one of the frontrunners to lift yet another Champions League trophy.

The visiting Roma side are in limbo comparatively. What once looked like a potential title-winning campaign has left the club protecting their Champions League status in Serie A. A draw with out-of-form Bologna at the weekend was hardly the perfect way to prepare for a trip to the Camp Nou, where Barcelona dispatched Chelsea in the last 16.

Barca are unbeaten on home turf in all competitions this season. The absence of all-action midfielder Radja Nainggolan makes the task even harder for the Italian side, despite their decent form of late. As we saw from Chelsea, this Barcelona defence is fallible. The trouble for Roma is, without Nainggolan, their ability to transition quickly is limited.

This could be all over after this tie. Roma’s defence has been good on the road in Serie A this term, but this is an altogether different prospect.

TIP: Lionel Messi to score and Barcelona to win @ 4/6

CORRECT SCORE: Barcelona 3-1 Roma (17/2 with 888sport)

 

LIVERPOOL vs MANCHESTER CITY

This is the tie of the round. Two teams from the same nation meeting as early as the last eight is usually a disappointment given how frequently they play each other anyway, but this match is different. Liverpool and Manchester City are the two best teams to watch in Europe right now. They are expected to deliver a thriller under the lights at Anfield.

via GIPHY

Liverpool ended City’s hopes of invincibility with their 4-3 in this fixture earlier in the season. The blueprint for that day was the same that is always is from Jurgen Klopp, and there’s no reason for that to change here. Liverpool have lost just once in 23 home matches this season.

Klopp has won more matches against Pep Guardiola than anyone else on the planet. Manchester City will have learnt from their league meeting, however, which could see Guardiola alter his approach slightly. The probable return of Sergio Aguero looms large, too.

City walked all over Everton on Saturday evening a few hours after Liverpool left it late to grab the points against Crystal Palace. Those matches are hardly comparable to this, but the extra effort exerted by Liverpool could be a factor in the last 20 minutes on Wednesday night.

Both teams have good defensive records of late, but I can’t see that continuing here. Neither side is capable of making this cagey, and neither manager will be inclined to do so. Expect goals, maybe quite a few of them.

TIP: Over 3.5 goals @ 37/20

CORRECT SCORE: Liverpool 2-2 Man City (10/1 with 888sport)

 

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

The 2018 Formula One season begins at the end of March with Lewis Hamilton looking to defend his Drivers’ Championship crown. The 33-year-old won his fourth title last season, beating rival Sebastian Vettel with a dominant run of form down the stretch.

Hamilton will now search for his second title on the bounce, which would take him clear of Vettel and level with Juan Manuel Fangio with five crowns, leaving him behind only Michael Schumacher. However, the Brit will be tested in his quest for the crown throughout the course of the season.

Vettel will lead the challengers, with Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas along with Red Bull drivers Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo also pushing for the Championship. It promises to be an enthralling battle and we’ll now break down our betting markets and tips for the 2018 season.

Drivers’ Championship Winner

The first item on the docket is deciding who will win the Drivers’ Championship. It’s a fairly simple task of picking the winner, with the best odds available before the start of the season before the results come thick and fast - although there will be a market for every driver on the circuit.

Experts will tell you there are six true contenders for the crown but they will come from the three leading teams; namely, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. The last winner that did not come from one of those outfits was Jenson Button in 2009.

In the last 17 seasons, only three drivers have triumphed when not racing for those three elite sides – Fernando Alonso, Hamilton and the previously mentioned Button. Consider value when lining up a bet on the Drivers’ Championship but there also has to be a realistic angle, so focus on the top six drivers – Hamilton, Vettel, Bottas, Verstappen, Ricciardo and Kimi Raikkonen.

The key points of the season are the opening three races of the term, with the drivers beginning to settle into their new cars. Vettel last season got off to a good start to put Hamilton under pressure. However, after Mercedes were allowed to adapt at the mid-season break, the Brit reigned in his rival. The middle break in the term proves to be just as important as the start of the campaign and is certainly worth monitoring.

Constructors’ Championship Winner

Another simple way to bet, which is simply lining up the team that will attain the most points in the campaign and combining the scores of their two drivers into a sum total.

Again, it’s dominated by the elite teams and it's not hard to predict which side will be up there at the end of the campaign: Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. In the last 10 seasons, only Brawn has managed to break the stranglehold of Mercedes and Red Bull at the top of the standings.

Even Ferrari has endured a drought, failing to win the Constructors’ Championship since 2008 when Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen combined to win the crown. This is reflected in the Italian outfit’s 7/2 odds for the 2018 campaign.

Pre-Season Prop Bets

There are a few proposition bets that can be made before the start of the season. For instance, there are markets available for how many victories Hamilton et al will have over the course of the term. The same bet can be made regarding pole positions and retirements.

Hamilton has averaged 10 wins per year since 2014, which could be worth tracking in an over/under market. Vettel has averaged two wins a season in the same time period, which is incredibly noteworthy in the battle for the crown. Retirements ruined the 2017 campaign for Verstappen and to some degree Ricciardo.

The Dutchman was forced out of seven races last term. Reliability has been an issue at Red Bull, making the completed races market one to watch, especially for the Austrian outfit.

Race Winner

The simplest bet to take during a Grand Prix weekend is picking the winner of the race. Hamilton will likely lead the way with the shortest odds due to his dominance over the last four seasons. Vettel will not be far behind him.

Therefore, you will not find the best value by choosing a race winner. Indeed the two drivers, especially Hamilton, have their fortress venues where they are rarely beaten. As a result, it’s worth analysing where they are weaker. Hamilton, for example, has struggled at the Australian Grand Prix, recording just two wins in 11 attempts.

Compare that to his record in China and the United Kingdom, where he has notched five victories on each circuit over the course of his career. Analysing the circuits is also a worthwhile venture. The tight corners of Monte Carlo for the Monaco Grand Prix throw up interesting results – therefore it’s worth paying attention to past records at venues before taking a punt.

Pole Position

Another form of punt for the racing weekend is decided on the Saturday before the race. Earning pole is all about the speed around the track rather than the specific tactics for the Grand Prix. The odds will be shortest on the leading teams, with the usual suspects. However, it has been known to spring a surprise or two in recent history.

Practice sessions before qualifying can offer an insight into how the battle for first place on the grid will fall. There’s no exact science behind it but, again, monitoring past successes on the circuit along with form could yield positive results.

Podium Finish

This bet allows the possibility for drivers for the lesser teams to feature in your bet, picking a competitor to finish in the top three of the Grand Prix. You will see the less fancied drivers weave their way into contention at least on a handful of occasions over the course of the season.

The value of the odds drops from winner to podium due to the greater chance of success. As a result, monitoring form and perhaps experience at a venue could see the bet be a fruitful endeavour.

Top Six Finish

Placing a bet for a driver to finish in the top six offers a different market to break up the monotony of winner or pole bets. Value is affected due to the stronger possibility of the result. However, if you fancy one of the lesser-known competitors to pull off an upset, it’s worth a crack.

Fastest Lap

The market is simply who does the fastest lap of the track. Usually, it will be the leading car due to open space ahead of the driver. However, it has been known to throw up surprises now and again.

Paying attention to qualifying is key for this market to assess the speeds of all cars on the circuit and whether they will be able to replicate the form on race day.

Margin Of Victory

This is an over-under for the margin of the driver’s triumph on race day. The market will offer odds on over/under six seconds, or 10 seconds depending on the comfort of the win. Incredible small and large margins of victory will have the best value as close finishes and truly dominant victories are rarely seen on Sundays. Therefore, it will be best to back them to yield a healthy profit.

 

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