PREMIER LEAGUE Weekend PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Friday, August 25, 2006)

A Ferd in the hand is worth two on the box There's only one thing in life that's more enjoyable than an evening with the wife and kids, and that's an evening without the wife and kids. Whenever I'm lucky enough to be rid of the evil one and her two clones, I like to relax in front of the box with a couple of lagers watching quality television programming. As the free-view doesn't kick off until 11:00pm, my programme of choice is ideally football related and entertaining, thus immediately ruling Soccer AM out of the equation. With the exception of the imperious Jeff Stelling show on a Saturday afternoon, other programmes struggle to match my demanding criteria, so you can imagine my unconfined joy when news broke that Rio Ferdinand was set to enter the world of light entertainment. His wind-up show was a disappointment, the sketch where he 'murked' the drug testers by forgetting to turn up was left out, as was the one where he 'murked' the Man U board by refusing to sign a contract until their wage offer rose from £100,000 to £110,000 a week. I imagine the sketch where he was going to 'murk' Martin Jol by pretending to bid £18m for Michael Carrick was pulled for being too unrealistic. Rio has been offered another bite at the TV cherry, the premise being that Ferd and his crew will 'pimp' up the pads of….fellow millionaire professional footballers. I literally can wait. Talking of pimping, Wayne Rooney misses United's match against Watford due to the FA upholding a ridiculous ban for a red card in a friendly. Rooney's agent hit back by threatening to withhold Wayne's image rights; I can only guess that Rooney suggested 'upping the ante' and Stretford misunderstood. United have won their last six against Watford, the Mancs are the weekend nap at 2/5. With Rooney banned, best pal Cristiano 'more dives than Glasgow' Ronaldo should be backed to net the opener. Ronnie's been priced up at 15/2, a price so big I almost fell over. Watford were absolutely robbed by the ref at Goodison Park, they're now playing Man U, they'll be lucky if they're awarded a throw in. Watford won't score, take 21/20 about a United win coupled with a clean sheet. Arsenal have treated Man City in recent years like Ben Thatcher treats Pedro Mendes, they've pounded on them unmercifully. (Mendes is not the first person to be unable to work thanks to Thatcher.) Arsenal have left Manchester with all three points on their last eight visits, you've got to fancy the Gunners at 8/11 to reach number nine. Someone's going to take a pommeling at the hands of the Wenger boys soon, there's a decent chance it'll be Thatcher's mob. Blackburn players do enjoy a challenge. The wild Rovers had two players sent off on the opening day, that's virtually a friendly for Savage & co. Chelsea were turned over at Ewood Park last season, a repeat is out of the question. A wounded Chelsea are a great bet at 4/7 to make amends for their Boro bashing. I had my fingers burnt by Liverpool last week, but the Reds can make amends at home to West Ham. Liverpool's attacking options were limited when Stevie G snatched the FA Cup from the Hammers' grasp in May, but now they have three quality marksmen and Peter Crouch competing for a start. The Pool should be backed at a healthy 1/2. Fulham look a promising investment at home to Sheff U at 10/11. Chris Coleman's battlers won the same amount of home matches as Manchester United last season, only a disastrous campaign on the road ensured a 12th place finish. I'm a little worried about the Malbranque situation, Chris Coleman appears to be cutting off his nose to spite his face; that's only a good idea if you're Iain Dowie. If the Cottagers come anywhere near replicating last season's home form, we're venturing towards decent stake territory. David O'Leary's lackadaisical attitude ensured the Villa team rolled over and died away at Arsenal in a 5-0 defeat just four months ago, yet under Martin O'Neill, the same group of players were able to fight like the wife 'when the decorators visit' to nick a commendable draw. The Villa are worth a bet at 7/5 at home to Newcastle, simply because of the O'Neill factor. I'm a great believer in positive thinking. There's an old saying that I hold dear, 'If at first you don't succeed, then Paul Jewell will probably buy you'. You shouldn't kick a dead dog, but I can't help but feel that the signing of Heskey will prove disastrous for Wigan. Reading have started the season well, they're worth a second look at 3/1 to leave the JJB with three points. The acc of the week: The accer this week is so certain, that even under extreme torture it would refuse to budge. Liverpool, Fulham, Tottenham, Arsenal and Aston Villa are the good things, you're looking at a payout of 17/1. The weekend specials: "A little Camp?" - Ivan Campo to score with a header 20/1 "A professional Fowl" - Robbie Fowler to score a penalty 6/1 "Bull's high" - Jimmy Bullard to score with a header 14/1 "A very dirty Vid" - Mark Viduka to be sent off 20/1 The quote of the week: "He's not intelligent." Jose 'all tact' Mourinho, when asked about Michael Essien. The lay man: Sheff Utd are begging to be laid at 10/3 for their trip to the Cottage, this is possibly how the expression 'easy money' originated. Help yourself at Betfair, Backandlay or Betdaq. Weekend Betting: Liverpool v West Ham Saturday 26th August 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus Liverpool 1/2 Draw 10/3 West Ham 15/2 Get on: Liverpool Match Special: Bellamy to score two or more goals 5/1 Charlton v Bolton Saturday 26th August 15.00 Charlton 6/4 Draw 9/4 Bolton 9/5 Get on: Draw Match Special: Match to finish 1-1 11/2 Fulham v Sheff Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00 Fulham 10/11 Draw 9/4 Sheff Utd 3/1 Get on: Fulham Match Special: Papa Bouba Diop to score with a header 10/1 Tottenham v Everton Saturday 26th August 15.00 Tottenham 4/5 Draw 12/5 Everton 4/1 Get on: Tottenham Match Special: Berbatov and Keane both to score 13/2 Watford v Man Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00 Watford 15/2 Draw 10/3 Man Utd 2/5 Get on: Man Utd Match Special: Ronaldo to score direct from a free-kick 8/1 Wigan v Reading Saturday 26th August 15.00 Wigan Evs Draw 9/4 Reading 3/1 Get on: Reading Match Special: Lita to score the only goal of the game 50/1 Man City v Arsenal Saturday 26th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus Man City 9/2 Draw 13/5 Arsenal 8/11 Get on: Arsenal Match Special: Henry to score a hat-trick 25/1 Aston Villa v Newcastle Sunday 27th August 14.00 Live on Sky Aston Villa 7/5 Draw 9/4 Newcastle 2/1 Get on: Aston Villa Match Special: Angel to score with a header 6/1 Blackburn v Chelsea Sunday 27th August 16.00 Live on Sky Blackburn 6/1 Draw 11/4 Chelsea 4/7 Get on: Chelsea Match Special: John Terry to score at any time 5/1 Middlesbrough v Portsmouth Monday 28th August 20.00 Live on Sky Middlesbrough 5/4 Draw 5/2 Portsmouth 11/4 Get on: Draw Match Special: Boateng to be booked 6/4 Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 7:56 AM

PREMIER LEAGUE weekend PREVIEW by David Walker ()

Walker's Word - Weekend 26-28 August 2006 By David Walker Manchester United have a great opportunity to maintain their winning start to the season while Chelsea are playing catch-up for a change. Bolton Wanderers could also keep Charlton Athletic rooted to the foot of the table. Liverpool vs West Ham United Saturday lunch time presents the replay of the FA Cup final with Liverpool winning the lions share of previous encounters at Anfield. The Reds have won the last five meetings at home, with the Hammers last taking something back to London during the 1998/99 season when the sides drew 2-2. Alan Pardew’s side have began the season well, with a win and a draw and striker Bobby Zamora has already bagged two goals this campaign. Liverpool have started slowly, managing a draw against Sheffield United on the opening game of the season, but with Champions League qualification secured, they can focus their attention on more domestic matters. Walker’s Word: Liverpool to win @ 4/9 (UK Betting) Charlton Athletic vs Bolton Wanderers After two matches, Charlton are rock bottom of the Premiership and things could get worse by 5pm. The Addicks have suffered defeats against West Ham and Manchester United and go into this match knowing Bolton have won on their last three visits to The Valley. Last season it was 1-0 and three of the previous four meetings have seen the Trotters emerge 2-1 victors. Kevin Nolan has scored twice in his last three visits and could be a good investment on the “to score any time market� as could a 2-1 correct score prediction in favour of the visitors. Walker’s Word: Bolton to continue Charlton’s misery @ 7/4 (Betfred) Fulham vs Sheffield United United earned a credible draw against Liverpool on the opening game of the season but haven’t played since, so it is difficult to judge how they will fair against some of the more "mediocre" teams in the top flight. Fulham, however, were thumped 5-1 at Manchester United last Sunday and needed a last gasp penalty to salvage a draw against Bolton midweek. The Cottagers were almost unbeatable at home last season and that is what I will base my prediction on for this match. Walker’s Word: Fulham’s reputation at home to shine through @ 10/11 (Coral) Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton Following an opening day defeat against Bolton, Spurs cruised past Sheffield United in the week and will be expected to do the same against Everton. The Toffees have made a solid start to the campaign, beating Watford and drawing at Blackburn, but they have lost their last four visits to White Hart Lane. Spurs have won 2-0, 5-2, 3-0 and 4-3 in their last four meetings with Everton and bar a 1-1 draw in the 2001/02 season, have won seven of their last eight meetings at home. Such a record can not be ignored this weekend. Walker’s Word: Spurs love beating Everton at White Hart Lane @ 8/11 (Paddy Power) Watford vs Manchester United Even without Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes during the week, Manchester United were a class above Charlton as they won 3-0 at The Valley. It is arguable Watford are not a strong as their London rivals and with United in such good early season form, it is hard to make a case against them. Walker’s Word: United to keep winning @ 2/5 (Ladbrokes) Wigan Athletic vs Reading Reading have made an excellent start to the season, akin to what Wigan achieved last term. After just one game for Wigan this season, a 2-1 defeat at Newcastle last weekend, it’s too early to tell how they are going to fair following the departures of Jason Roberts and Jimmy Bullard. I’m going to be boring and predict a draw. Walker’s Word: The match to finish all square @ 9/4 (VCBet) Manchester City vs Arsenal In the eight times these two have met in the Premiership in Manchester, Arsenal have won eight times, including the last seven. City have also been on the receiving end of a few heavy defeats, such as the 5-1 battering in the 2002/03 season and a 4-0 reverse in 2001/02. City have not fared well so far this season, managing a goalless draw with Portsmouth following an 3-0 opening day defeat at Chelsea while Arsene Wenger rested a few players in the 2-1 defeat of Dinamo Zagreb in preparation for this match. Wenger will not expect any slip ups after a disappointing draw with Aston Villa to mark their first season at the Emirates Stadium and Arsenal will be expected to emulate the 3-1 score they achieved last season. Walker’s Word: The Gunners to prevail @ 4/6 (Ladbrokes) Aston Villa vs Newcastle United Sunday sees a rejuvenated Aston Villa tackle Newcastle, who have won their only Premiership fixture so far this season. Despite no new arrivals and squad members Kevin Phillips and Mathieu Berson leaving in the week, there is a real buzz around Villa Park following the arrival of Martin O’Neill. An opening day draw at Arsenal was followed up by a 2-1 win against Reading after they fell behind after four minutes. Newcastle bolstered their forward line with the signing of Inter Milan striker Obafemi Martins to replace the injured Michael Owen but it may not be enough to return to Tyneside with all three points. Walker’s Word: A hard fought draw @ 23/10 (VCBet) Blackburn Rovers vs Chelsea Chelsea suffered a shock defeat at Middlesbrough in the week, a stark contrast to their nine-match winning start to last season. Chelsea won their opening game comfortably against Manchester City and will be expected to beat Blackburn who have had a tough start to the campaign. A 3-0 opening day defeat at Portsmouth was followed up by a 1-1 draw at home to Everton and Chelsea are a cut above both of those teams. Blackburn won this fixture 1-0 last May but the Blues had already sewn up the Premiership by then. Walker’s Word: Chelsea to get back on track @ 4/7 (Betfred) Middlesbrough vs Portsmouth Monday night pits Boro, who won beat Chelsea in their last match at the Riverside Stadium against an improving Portsmouth side. Boro fans will expect another win but this fixture has been a low scoring draw in three Premiership meetings – finishing 1-1 twice and 0-0 in 2003. A potential Monday night yawnfest in the making and the “Under 2.5 goals� market is an alternative to backing the draw. Walker’s Word: A low scoring bore draw @ 9/4 (Coral) David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week. Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 7:23 AM

PREMIER LEAGUE Weekend PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Thursday, August 17, 2006)

A Drog with two ricks Occasionally, a person can become so synonymous with a certain action that the English language will evolve as a result. For example, if the sight of anything Portuguese sends you into a psychotic rage, you're 'doing a Rooney', if your alcoholic wife beats you up due to unresolved rage issues, she's 'knocked out a Gerry', and if you pay six times over the correct market value for a mediocre footballer, you've 'pulled a Fergie'. We've all been had in the net on the odd occasion, but Fergie has bought more turkeys than Sainsbury's in recent years. Michael Carrick is the latest addition to a list that includes Kleberson, Forlan, Veron and my personal favourite, the Djemba brothers. After blowing an incredible £18.6m on the talented but ultimately limited midfielder, Sir Alex has once again been tucked up like a sleeping baby. Fulham can continue the theme of stitching up the purple- nosed one. Rooney's a fitness doubt for the Old Trafford opener; after reading his autobiography, it comes as no surprise that he's struggling with a groin injury. Fulham scored twice against Man U in both of their meetings last season, 12/1 about a shock is just too big. If Martin Jol has finished laughing, he'll take his Tottenham team to a tricky match at the Reebok. Jol has bought and sold exceptionally well in the summer, with Berbatov and Zokora being standout additions to the squad. Zokora believes he can be the 'Vieira of the Lane'; expect him to be completely outplayed by Fabregas when they meet Arsenal. Tottenham are a decent team, but they always struggle against Bolton (they've lost six of their last seven league matches); I can't see past the draw at 9/4. The Liverpool players will be pleased to hear that Neil Warnock is banned from the touchline when they visit Bramall Lane, although this may not stop Warnock from launching threatening paper aeroplanes from the stand. Liverpool's reserves saw off a full strength Chelsea last week, their first team receive the nap of the week award at a healthy 4/7. Wigan manager Paul Jewell is a jovial character, but something tells me he won't be smiling after his team take a mullering at St James' Park. Wigan faced Newcastle on three occasions last season, the team playing at home won every match. Dull, but true. Wigan have Heskey, Newcastle have the points in the bag at 8/11. Everton must be backed at 8/13 at home to new boys Watford. The partnership of Beattie and Johnson looks promising; Beattie can win the flick-ons to allow AJ to go down to 'earn' the penalty. Watford have visited Goodison Park on nine previous occasions, they've lost every time. Gareth Southgate has been busy in the transfer market, the signing of Julio Arca for less than £2m looks an inspired piece of business. Reading are nicknamed the Royals, and like their German counterparts in Buckingham Palace, they'll remain pointless on Saturday night. I do like the Boro at 9/5. The Villa fans are a lot like me, happiness can be gained from just one little Yank. The Villa have lost at Highbury for the last eight years, it's a good job this one is being played at the Emirates, they're unbeaten there. There's a momentum behind the Villa thanks to the takeover (I was a Randy Lerner once) and the arrival of Martin 'The Saviour' O'Neill; it would be folly to invest in the Gunners at 3/10. A red card in the match is on offer at 7/2; Graeme Poll is 'officiating', so you're 50% less likely to collect. Michael Ballack was substituted after 25 minutes in the Community Shield, I know what it's like to finish prematurely, it's no picnic. Four of the previous six matches between Chelsea and Man City have finished 1-0, with Drogba almost certain to squander a couple of chances; a repeat of the 1-0 scoreline at 6/1 looks a decent wager. If Ballack and Shevchenko both start, I'd rather be on a 2-0 stroll for the Champions at a healthy 11/2. Last week's accer hit both posts and the bar before being cleared off the line, this week's will fly straight in the top corner. Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Chelsea are the chosen ones, the accer will pay out at 14/1 when successful. The weekend specials: "Tim'll fix it" - Cahill to score with a header 11/2 "Young a tart" - Luke Young to be booked for diving 16/1 "A bitter Lehmann" - Aston Villa to score a goal Evs "Duff'll bag" - Damien Duff to score two or more goals 9/1 The quote of the week: "What I'm looking for is flexibility." Steve McClaren knows the score. The probably misheard quote of the week: "I'm internally grateful to Steve McClaren." Dean Ashton desperately wanted that cap. The lay man: You've got to love the betting exchanges. People are lining up to back Arsenal at 1/3; if you 'lay' that bet, you're effectively backing either the draw or a Villa win at 3/1. Happy, happy days. Weekend Betting: Sheff Utd v Liverpool Saturday 19th August 12.45 Live on Sky Sheff Utd 6/1Draw 14/5Liverpool 4/7 Arsenal v Aston Villa Saturday 19th August 15.00 Arsenal 3/10Draw 7/2Aston Villa 12/1 Everton v Watford Saturday 19th August 15.00 Everton 8/13Draw 5/2Watford 5/1 Newcastle v Wigan Saturday 19th August 15.00 Newcastle 8/11Draw 5/2Wigan 4/1 Portsmouth v Blackburn Saturday 19th August 15.00 Portsmouth 6/4Draw 9/4Blackburn 21/10 Reading v Middlesbrough Saturday 19th August 15.00 Reading 6/4Draw 9/4Middlesbrough 9/5 West Ham v Charlton Saturday 19th August 15.00 West Ham 11/10Draw 9/4Charlton 3/1 Bolton v Tottenham Saturday 19th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus Bolton 17/10Draw 9/4Tottenham 17/10 Man Utd v Fulham Sunday 20th August 13.30 Live on Premiership Plus Man Utd 3/10Draw 9/2Fulham 12/1 Chelsea v Man City Sunday 20th August 16.00 Live on Sky Chelsea 1/4Draw 9/2Man City 12/1 Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 3:38 PM

PREMIER LEAGUE weekend PREVIEW by David Walker ()

Walker's Word - Weekend 19-20 August 2006 By David Walker A new season kicks off this weekend and see's the return of Walker's Word. Another 10 months of non-stop top flight football action begins on Saturday with both the opening and closing matches ripe for picking a couple of shock results at great odds writes David Walker. Saturday 19 August Sheffield United vs Liverpool Sheffield United make their Premiership return after a 12 year absence at lunch time, to kick off another 10 months of top flight action. The bookmakers are predicting a cakewalk for visiting Liverpool, but Blades boss Neil Warnock will have other ideas. During the 2002/03 Carling Cup, United beat Liverpool 2-1 at Bramall Lane, drew 0-0 at home in 1993/94 and beat the Reds 1-0 the previous year in the Premiership's debut season. Liverpool may have one eye on their Champions League tie against Maccabi Haifa three days later which still hangs in the balance at 2-1 in the Reds favour. Walker's Word: A "shock" draw to go against the bookmakers @ 12/5 (Coral) Arsenal vs Aston Villa There is unlikely to be any such shock result at the new Emirates Stadium however. Arsenal have beaten the Villains for the past eight seasons on home soil, including a 5-0 thumping last April. With the takeover at Aston Villa still not completed and new manager Martin O'Neill only recently installed, Villa could continue the form which saw them lose three of their last four matches at the end of last season. Walker's Word: Arsenal to christen their new ground with a win @ 3/10 (VCBet) Everton vs Watford Watford travel to Goodison Park on their Premiership return in the knowledge they have never beaten Everton on their home turf. Even more daunting is the in the eight times the pair have met in Merseyside, the Toffees have won every single encounter. The last time these two met was in the Premiership was during the 1999/00 campaign where Everton ran out 4-2 winners thanks to two goals apiece from Mark Hughes and USA striker Joe-Max Moore. Walker's Word: Everton like playing Watford so back them @ 4/6 (Totalbet) Newcastle United vs Wigan Athletic Newcastle beat Wigan 3-1 last season in the middle of their five-match winning run towards the end of the campaign. The Magpies will be without the injured Michael Owen and the retired Alan Shearer, who scored twice in that match, but strikers Alberto Luque and Shola Ameobi have been in good form pre season. The Wigan squad has seen numerous changes this summer, including the arrival of record signing Emile Heskey, but it will be the home side cheering by 4-45pm. Walker's Word: Newcastle to continue their good form @ 8/11 (Paddy Power) Portsmouth vs Blackburn Rovers Blackburn Rovers have not lost at Fratton Park on league or cup duty since an old second division clash in 1990 which saw Pompey win 3-2. Since then, Rovers have enjoyed good fortune on the south coast, including three wins and two draws in their past five visits. Mark Hughes' side should find the Pompey defence a bit sterner since the arrivals of Sol Campbell and Glen Johnson but new strikers Jason Roberts, who scored at Fratton Park last season, and Benni McCarthy will give them plenty to think about on Saturday afternoon. Walker's Word: An away win for Blackburn @ 21/10 (Bet365) Reading vs Middlesbrough The last time Reading beat Middlesbrough at home was in 1927 and the duo have rarely met since. The last time they met was in Division One in 1998 where a Paul Gascoigne and Paul Merson-inspired Boro won 1-0 thanks to a Marco Branca goal. However, Reading have improved a lot since then and suffered just one defeat at the Madejski Stadium last season. The Premiership will be a massive step up for them but with opposition manager Gareth Southgate still wet behind the ears, they could send their supporters home happy by holding Boro to an opening day draw. Walker's Word: A point for both sides, draw @ 11/5 (Paddy Power) West Ham United vs Charlton Athletic Charlton have a good recent record at Upton Park which will give new manager Iain Dowie optimism as he returns to top-flight management. In their last five visits to East London, the Addicks have won twice and drawn once – a goalless draw last season. The Hammers will be rocked by Dean Ashton's ankle injury which could keep him out of the game for four months while the evergreen Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and last season's top English goal scorer, Darren Bent, lines up against them. Add to it Dowie spent four years in two separate spells as a West Ham player and you have all the ingredients for an intriguing encounter. Walker's Word: Iain Dowie to get one over on his old side @ 11/4 (Betfred) Bolton Wanderers vs Tottenham Hotspur The betting prospects on this match are more interesting than the on pitch action is likely to be, given the 5.15 Saturday kick-offs are usually drab, low scoring affairs. Bolton have beaten Spurs at the Reebok Stadium for the last four seasons yet the bookmakers insist on pricing up the visitors as the favourites. Walker's Word: There is value in backing Bolton @ 9/5 (UK Betting) Sunday 20 August Manchester United vs Fulham Sunday lunch time pits Alex Ferguson's title pretenders against Chris Coleman's unhappy travellers and there is likely to be only one outcome. United have beaten Fulham at Old Trafford for the past five seasons and given the Cottagers dismal away record, which saw them win just once on their travels last season, this run is likely to continue. Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes face a three match ban, but this does not come into effect until after Sunday's match. Walker's Word: One for the big hitters, United @ 3/10 (Ladbrokes) Chelsea vs Manchester City Will Chelsea's domestic dominance continue this season following the summer signings of Germany captain Michael Ballack and AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko? According to the bookmakers, it will, and price Manchester City up at a massive 14/1 to beat the Blues at Stamford Bridge, something no team in the Premiership could do last season. Frankly, it's an insult considering it's the opening game of the season and Chelsea haven't exactly been firing on all cylinders pre season, including last Sunday's Community Shield defeat against Liverpool. Walker's Word: Hope for a real upset @ 14/1 (UK Betting) David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week. Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 3:22 PM

BUNDESLIGA ante-post PREVIEW (Friday, August 11, 2006)

The 2006 World Cup was a tremendous advert for Germany's friendliness and organisational skills, but it hasn't changed the downward trajectory of its domestic league which now struggles to attract top players. Ruud Van Nistelrooy's preference for Real Madrid over Bayern Munich is a good illustration. The defending Bundesliga Champions - double winners for consecutive seasons, and title holders in five of the last seven campaigns - were frustrated by their inability to land a big name player in the off-season to replace their talismanic captain, Michael Ballack, who has joined English Premiership Champions, Chelsea. Nevertheless, the Bavarians still start as hot favourites with www.pinnaclesports.com to repeat the hat-trick of titles achieved from 1999-2001, priced at 1.63. With no natural successor to the leadership and goal threat of the national captain, or the experienced outgoing Brazilian defensive midfielder Ze Roberto, Felix Magath is looking to Bastian Schweinsteiger and new signing, Lukas Podolski - voted "Best Young Player of the World Cup" - to fill the void after successful World Cup campaigns. One of the likeliest candidates to capitalise on a transitional season for Bayern, are Werder Bremen, the last club other than Munich to win the Bundesliga title (in 2004) a double winning season for the side. Coach, Thomas Schaaf, proved that was no fluke with top-three finishes in the two subsequent seasons. During his five years in charge Schaaf has made a huge impact, helped in that time by the streamlining of the club's business structure. Bremen have one of the League's youngest squads, with goals provided by Golden Boot winning Miroslav Klose, supplied from midfield by international compatriots Tim Borowski and Torsten Frings. Bremen's 2-0 League Cup win over Bayern Munich on August 5th underlined their title credentials. So long as WB endure the loss of influential French midfield playmaker, Johan Micoud, the www.pinnaclesports.com quote of 5.14 to lift the Bundesliga trophy could be excellent value. Bremen's victory at Hamburg on the final day of last season demoted their Northern rivals to a third place finish, and there should be little between the clubs again this term. With an early Champions League qualifier Thomas Doll's side should be well primed for the start of the season. Last term's UEFA Intertoto campaign (beginning a month before the German league) inspired a terrific start to the season - SV lost just once in 27 games in all competition. Hamburg were the only club to do the double over Bayern Munich and, but for a dip in form as the season wore on, could have challenged for the title itself. With a little more staying-power that is a possibility this time around. They are priced at 8.08 to win the league. At the same odds are Schalke 04. They haven't won the German title since 1958, but have twice finished runners-up in the last six seasons, on both occasions behind Bayern Munich, and since 2001 have never finished outside the top seven. There has been a changing of the guard at last season's UEFA Cup semi-finalists with youth replacing experience. Head coach, Mirko Slomka, is out to improve Schalke's goal scoring record, as last season no team in the top six scored fewer goals than Schalke. He has brought in Turkish striker, Halil Altinttop, who last season scored 20 times for Kaiserslautern, to link up with his twin brother Hamit, who plays in midfield. www.pinnaclesports.com market suggests it would be a shock if one of the highlighted quartet doesn't bag the 2007 Bundesliga title, but if you fancy any of the chasing pack you can get prices of 15.1 and upward. For a smarter way to bet the Bundesliga visit www.pinnaclesports.com Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 8:43 AM

COMMUNITY SHIELD and CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Thursday, August 10, 2006)

A tie, with a Lam starter Sometimes in life you have to be willing to compromise. This morning for example, it was too chilly for a t-shirt, yet perplexingly, a little too warm for a jacket. After considering my options at length, i embraced the middle ground by selecting a long sleeved top. An almost identical situation is currently in play in the Middle East; they could do worse than 'be like the G' and consider a compromise, as could all bettors looking to take an interest in the Community Shield. There's a stigma involved with backing a draw in a football match, you're basically telling the bookmaker that you're not smart enough to solve the conundrum, but with so many question marks surrounding the preparation of both Chelsea and Liverpool, backing the draw at 11/5 will prove a profitable concession. Jose's getting his excuses in early by claiming his players are under prepared, the reality is that Rafa has him by the short and baldies. Mourinho has come out on top in only two of his last seven face-offs with Benitez, Jose's incessant whining is an exercise in pre-emptive damage limitation. Chelsea can't be backed at 11/10, a 1-1 scoreline must be at 11/2. Frank Lampard's autobiography made fascinating reading. He claimed that his legs were heavy during the World Cup; talk about stating the obvious. He was told that he was the fittest England player; you can get 8/11 about a typo. Frankie's performances in Germany were truly, truly awful, but there are few that can argue with the fact that 'Lamb lard' always performs for his club. The Lamp is an 8/1 shot to open the scoring. Jose has gone to the extreme of shaving his head in a symbolic gesture that he is ready to go to war. Jose's no mug, when entering the field of battle, it's almost compulsory to have a German in the vicinity, hence the signing of Ballack. A sending off has been priced up at 11/4, if Craig Bellamy was on the pitch on his own that would tempt. Bellamy and Pennant should both be in the starting 11 for the Pool, and let's be honest; it's probably not the last time they'll appear in a line-up. Bellamy remains controversial, but the boyo can play. The Bell has been chalked up at 15/2 to score the last goal. There's another full Championship programme to get our teeth into, and Southampton are the weekend nap at home to West Brom. I fancy the Saints to be there or thereabouts at the end of the season, 11/8 is too big against a mediocre Albion side. Paradoxically, I can't see the Saints performing well in the Cup competitions, with Pele in their team; they won't get past a semi. Ex-Baggie Rob Earnshaw found the net in midweek, and goals to Earnie are like bottles of buckfast to the wife, one begets another. Norwich look a great investment at 10/11 to beat Luton and the pacy, goofy, dwarf-like striker should be backed at 4/1 to bang in the opener. Crystal Palace host Leeds in a potential cracker and the Eagles are the selection at 5/4 to maintain their 100% record. Leeds were denied a win in midweek when Shahbaz scored a 90th minute equaliser for QPR; if a little camp Scotsman can breach your defence, Macken and Morrison could literally run riot. Leicester and Ipswich are both as pointless as voting on a big brother eviction, so an 'O' must go when they meet at the Walkers. Ipswich can take comfort from their performances in narrow defeats to Palace and Wolves while embarrassing defeats to Luton and Burnley will do little for the goalless Foxes. You can't touch the crisp nibblers at odds on; you must accept the tractor factor; back Ipswich at a humongous 11/4. Top marks to Billy Sharp for his superb goal celebration in midweek, Scunthorpe's sharpshooter delighted all with a superb impression of our very own Monty. (That's England's latest spin sensation, not the large-breasted golfing choker.) On a related note, Saturday sees the last episode of Cricket AM, I enjoyed it immensely; it was like Soccer AM, only funny. Scunthorpe should be backed at 6/4 to see off a Crewe side in terminal decline. Norwich, Southampton, Crystal Palace and Gretna form the accer of the week, it pays out at a whopping 17/1. Get on now, or forever hold your piece. Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 10:36 AM

PREMIER LEAGUE ante-post PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Tuesday, August 01, 2006)

The Thin Blue Swine I'm no stranger to police attention. I was once driving along with the wife when the boys in blue pulled me over. The copper asked me if I'd been drinking."Not a drop" I replied, "Was I speeding?""No Sir, it's the state of the bint in the passenger seat that aroused my suspicion." My run in with the Old Bill pigeon-holes me alongside young Wayne Rooney. The Scouse nutcase had his possessions lifted from his parent's house recently; imagine that, a robbery in Liverpool. If anyone offers you a half-eaten Big Mac wrapped in losing betting slips, you should contact the filth immediately. For Rooney, it's been a summer to forget. The big lad's temperament was called in to question at the World Cup, when after a couple of niggling challenges from the opposition players, Rooney decided to jump on Ricardo Carvalho's testicles like they were a couple of hairy chicken nuggets. Ricky 'The Soprano' Carvalho will have a thirst for vengeance as a result of his severe case of the 'numb plum' at the hands of the Roonatic. They say that revenge is a dish best served with two veg, depriving Wayne Rooney of a champion's medal will be a little payback. Chelsea are 1/2 to retain their title; that's a plum betting opportunity. Luckily, there is a betting without Chelsea market, and I'm favouring Arsenal to pip Man U to the runners-up spot. It looks like Real Madrid have failed in their attempt to lure Fabregas from the Emirates (paying for Cesc is quite an appealing prospect), while United are set to lose Ronnie and the Ruud boy. 2/1 about the Gunners in a two horse race seems more than fair. Ricardo Carvalho is not the first man to end up with an angry pair of plums, Neville Neville set the trend 30 years ago. Phil Neville's Everton teammates look a decent bet at 14/1 to come out on top in the betting 'without the big 4'. One of the results of Chelsea's 'buy every good player in the world' policy, is that the relegation battle has evolved into a 'dolphin' market; it's more interesting than the title race for betting porpoises. Wigan performed miracles last season, but they've lost Chimbonda and bought Heskey, which is like swapping a Porsche for a wheelbarrow. Take 4/1 about Wigan dropping a division. Paul Jewell managed to keep Bradford in the Premier League for a season a few years ago; before being relegated the following term, finishing rock bottom. Jewell may be a real character, but so is Homer Simpson, and you wouldn't want him in charge of your football team. (Unless it was a straight choice between Simpson and Souness, then you'd have to seriously reconsider your position.) Wigan are worth a small nibble at 20/1 to finish bottom of the heap. Thierry Henry believes that his appearance in the Champions League and World Cup finals prove that he is a winner, although technically, that makes him a double loser. It's rare for an 11/4 shot to represent value in a 120 runner race, but you can't look beyond the great man for the Golden Boot. Henry has topped the charts in four of the last five campaigns (he narrowly lost out to Van the man by a single goal four seasons ago); only a serious injury to the world's greatest player will prevent you from collecting. The following guide covers everything you need to know for the upcoming Premiership season, and in all likelihood, plenty more that you didn't. Arsenal Winners 8/1Relegation 1,500/1 Where they'll finish - 2nd Coming second is rarely enjoyable, but will represent a successful season for the Gunners. Season Special - Arsenal to finish above Liverpool 10/11 Aston Villa Winners 1,000/1 Relegation 5/1 Where they'll finish - 12th The Villa squad is one of the smallest in the Premiership, and as my wife always says, you can't compose a symphony with a small organ. They could do with a billionaire to take over, I'm feeling Randy. Season Special - Aston Villa to finish 15th or higher 4/7 Blackburn Winners 350/1 Relegation 25/1 Where they'll finish - 9th Robbie Savage is on his way to Europe. God help those poor continentals. Season Special - Blackburn to finish 7th or lower 4/11 Bolton Winners 500/1 Relegation 22/1 Where they'll finish - 7th While England are lumbered with Steve McClaren, Bolton get to keep hold of the miracle man Sam Allardyce. The best result of the summer. Season Special - Bolton to finish above Blackburn 6/5 Charlton Winners 2,000/1 Relegation 3/1 Where they'll finish - 17th Darren Bent misses the start of the season as he hasn't mastered the art of sandwich making. They'll miss the Curb. Season Special - Darren Bent to be Charlton's top scorer Evs Chelsea Winners 1/2 Relegation 10,000/1 Where they'll finish - 1st The Lamp failed to shine in Germany, but always burns brightly in the Premiership. Ballack and Shevchenko can both play, Paddy Power will probably pay out at the end of August. Season Special - Shevchenko to score 17 league goals or fewer 5/6 Everton Winners 500/1 Relegation 16/1 Where they'll finish - 5th Andy Johnson is a quality striker, Tim Cahill is a quality midfielder and Phil Neville is a defender. I like their chances. Season Special - Everton to win 'without the big 4' 14/1 Fulham Winners 1,500/1 Relegation 5/1 Where they'll finish - 16th The antics of Jimmy Bullard should entertain the Cottagers. Somewhere, there's a psychiatric unit missing a patient. Season Special - Fulham to finish above Wigan 10/11 Liverpool Winners 17/2 Relegation 1,500/1 Where they'll finish - 4th I read that Craig Bellamy remains polemical, I'm not bilingual, I assume polemical is Welsh for a tool. Season Special - Gerrard to score more league goals than Bellamy 7/4 Man City Winners 750/1 Relegation 9/1 Where they'll finish - 15th City have signed Hamann from Liverpool via Bolton in the strangest transfer tale since David Unsworth's wife told him he couldn't stay in the Midlands. It won't help. Season Special - Samaras to score more league goals than Vassell 8/11 Man United Winners 8/1 Relegation 2,500/1 Where they'll finish - 3rd Fergie may end up needing a taxi out of Old Trafford by the end of the season. He should have kept his Van. Season Special - Man U to earn 75 league points or less 11/8 Middlesbrough Winners 500/1 Relegation 16/1 Where they'll finish - 10th Even a novice manager such as Gareth 'paint-dryingly dull' Southgate inspires more confidence than Steve 'what's he ever done' McClaren; they'll improve on last year. Season Special - Boro to finish above Newcastle 6/4 Newcastle Winners 175/1 Relegation 40/1 Where they'll finish - 11th Roeder was given the job although he lacks the necessary coaching qualifications. Luckily, Duff-man will prevent a relegation battle. Oh yeah. Season Special - Duff to be Newcastle's top scorer 8/1 Portsmouth Winners 1,000/1 Relegation 8/1 Where they'll finish - 13th Harry Redknapp is no stranger to a little punt, if he backs Pompey to stay up he'll have landed another touch. Season Special - Pompey to stay up 1/7 Reading Winners 2,500/1 Relegation 6/4 Where they'll finish - 14th Steve Coppell once walked out of Manchester after 33 days, what took him so long? Reading can be last season's Wigan. Season Special - Reading to finish above Sheff Utd and Watford 5/4 Sheffield United Winners 5,000/1 Relegation 4/6 Where they'll finish - 18th Neil Warnock will be an exciting addition to the Premiership, there's a severe shortage of managers who want to break opponent's legs. Season Special - Sheff U to finish 18th 7/2 Tottenham Winners 80/1 Relegation 200/1 Where they'll finish - 6th In Defoe and Berbatov, they have a pair of quality strikers. I like a nice pair. Season Special - Tottenham to finish 6th or lower 8/11 Watford Winners 5,000/1 Relegation 4/7 Where they'll finish - 19th Watford are like Big Brother's Imogen, they're not very attractive, they may go down at Christmas. Season Special - Watford to finish in the bottom two Evs West Ham Winners 750/1 Relegation 9/1 Where they'll finish - 8th Lee Bowyer should be a good signing; now that's what I call an attacking midfielder. Season Special - Dean Ashton to be the top English goal scorer 20/1 Wigan Winners 1,500/1 Relegation 4/1 Where they'll finish - 20th Bought Heskey to score goals, I'll predict three. Season Special - Wigan to finish bottom of the league 20/1 Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 1:13 PM