EMMET RYAN: A London derby headlines a mouth-watering weekend of EPL betting action. It’s time to pick some winners.
It’s safe to say that Arsene Wenger and José Mourinho aren’t exactly drinking buddies but they could be the best of pals and there would still be an added bite to Sunday’s clash between Arsenal and Chelsea. For the champions-elect, it’s about getting that one step closer to lifting the EPL trophy. For the Gunners, the small matter of breathing room in the race for second place really can’t be ignored. Any result for Arsenal on Sunday is a big boost as the Gunners need to keep Man City and Man United at arm’s length in the run-in.
This game screams of a cagey affair. Mourinho loves to counter-punch away from home and Wenger has shown in previous meetings with Chelsea that he isn’t overly keen on opening up against the Blues. With not losing far more important than winning for both sides, it’s hard to see either side forcing the issue for most of the game. An odd goal might nick it but the big value is in the most boring result. Bet on the draw at 3.25 for the best value.
The early game on Sunday pits Everton against Man United with two teams who have enjoyed radically different seasons. At this stage this season simply has to be viewed as a let-down for Roberto Martinez. For all the talent at his disposal, the Toffees have stuttered to mid-table spot and it seems just about what they deserve. Despite falling to Chelsea last time out, United have won back a lot of punters and at least one tipster this season. Louis Van Gaal needed time but he’s shaped a real outfit now and they look tremendous value in this one. Bet on Man United at 2.22 to win.
Finally we shift out attention to Saturday’s early game which sees Southampton, a team that provide stats nerds like myself wrong, host Spurs. A slide was expected by the Saints but every model said they would at least stay in the Champions League discussion until late in the year. Now the prospect of the Europa League is a big ask for Southampton. Seventh might be enough, and they won’t fall further than that, but to be safe Southampton have to secure sixth. I don’t see them getting any help at home on Saturday. Bet on Tottenham Hotspur at 3.95 to win.
