SUNDAY WORLD CUP BOOKIE BREAKER *TOP PLAY* 

An early red card ruined Colombia's World Cup opener. They were forced to play 87 minutes of their opening match with 10 men following Carlos Sanchez's sending off and took a 2-1 loss to Japan. There's at lot of talent in this team, and James Rodriguez could start this one after coming on as a substitute against Japan. 

Poland fell 2-1 to Senegal in their opening game and leading striker Robert Lewandowski was nowhere to be seen. They've now lost seven of their last nine World Cup games, failing to score in six of those defeats.

Both teams will be desperate for a win here, but I really like Colombia to come through in the end. 

10* play on Colombia. 

SUNDAY WORLD CUP MONEYMAKER

Both Senegal and Japan won their opening matches, but note that Japan had a numerical advantage for 87 minutes in their opener following an early red card for Colombia. Senegal looked solid at the back until conceding late in their 2-1 win against Poland, and they have a great mix of power and pace. Japan might have beaten Colombia, but from what I saw in the first game I think they'll be too light to handle a full-strength Senegal. 

8* play on Senegal. 

SATURDAY WORLD CUP TOTAL *TOP PLAY*

Reigning world champions Germany are in a "must-win" situation after 1-0 loss to Mexico. We have seen several of the top nations struggle to break down weaker opposition here in the World Cup, and here Germany will face a Sweden side happy to sit deep and try to soak up the pressure in hopes of a 0-0 draw as they already have three points in the bag since beating South Korea. Sweden offer very little going forward though, and their goal against South Korea was their first in 402 minutes of international football. They defend very well though, and only one of Sweden's last 10 games has had more than two goals. 

10* play on UNDER. 

SERBIA / SWITZERLAND *TOTAL THRASHING*

Write up posted shortly. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED NIGERIA / ICELAND *BOOKIE BREAKER*

Iceland claimed a 1-1 draw against Argentina in their tournament opener, and they must like their chances of advancing to the next round with a win here. They're extremely well organized but still underrated by the bookmakers for whatever reason. Nigeria took a 2-0 loss to Croatia in their first game and only a victory here would suffice. Perfect set up for Iceland to put the nail in the cofffin. 

10* play in Iceland PK. 

ARGENTINA / CROATIA *BANKROLL BUILDER*

Argentina need to win if they are to keep qualification in their own hands after being held to a 1-1 draw against Iceland. But Argentina can't just throw everything they have going forward as a loss would guarantee they're going home, and they'll face a tough Croatia side happy to sit back and soak up the pressure as they're in a great spot following a 2-0 triumph over Nigeria.

Croatia boast a star-studded midfield, and it won't be easy for La Albiceleste to get the ball passed it to their strikers. We can also note that Croatia have never lost their second group game at a World Cup, conceding just one goal in four matches. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* WORLD CUP *BOOKIE BREAKER* (THURSDAY GAME)

Denmark impressed in their 1-0 win over Peru in their first game of the group stage. Here they'll face an Aussie side which fell 2-1 to France in their tournament opener, and they need to go for 3 points here which should benefit Denmark who are very dangerous on the counter. 

10* play on Denmark. 

WEDNESDAY WORLD CUP *PUNISHER*

Morocco will be desperate for a win here after suffering a 1-0 loss to Iran due to a heartbreaking 95th minute own goal. They have an injury crisis at right-back; Nordin Amrabat is ruled out with concussion and regular right-back Nabil Dirar remains sidelined with a knee injury, something that will play right into the hands of Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo who is free to roam around up front and exploit weaknesses. 

Portugal managed a 3-3 draw with Spain in their tournament opener after a Ronaldo hat-trick. Watch them take advantage of the space behind Morocco's defense as they push forward, and I would not be surprised to see another hat-trick from Ronaldo here. 

8* play on Portugal. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

We won with Russia when they defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the World Cup opener, but I think they're in for a much tougher game here against Egypt.

To be fair, Russia were not even that good, but Saudi Arabia put up arguably one of the worst performances in World Cup history ...

Egypt will be desperate for a win after coming up just short to Jose Gimenez's 89th-minute winner for Uruguay in their tournament opener. Hopefully they'll have Mohamed Salah back from injury here, as he was left on the bench against Russia despite pre-match claims from boss Hector Cuper that the Liverpool superstar was "almost 100 percent" fit following his shoulder injury. They can't afford to rest Salah here, and I expect Egypt to grind out at least a point. 

10* Soccer Game of the Week: Egypt +0.5. 

WORLD CUP GROUP H *BANKROLL BUILDER*

Poland won two of their last three friendlies leading up to the World Cup and beat Lithuania 4-0 in their last game. Senegal meanwhile may have defeated South Korea 2-0 (thanks to an own goal and a penalty kick) their last time out, but they drew three and lost one prior to that triumph, despite playing teams like Uzbekistan and Luxembourg. 

Poland striker (and captain) Robert Lewandowski was the top scorer in the 2018 European World Cup qualifiers with 16 goals in only 10 games. He'll give the Senegal defenders plenty of trouble, and one goal from Lewa should be enough to win this contest. 

8* play on Poland. 

SOUTH KOREA/SWEDEN *CA$H COW*

Sweden scored a total of just three goals in their six friendlies leading up to the World Cup and got shut out in each of their last three. They do not have much firepower without Zlatan Ibrahimovic (retired from international football) and know they have to defend well to stand a chance against any opponent. They do however defend very well and held seven clean sheets in qualification. South Korea finished second on their qualification group with an 11-10 goal differential in 10 games, and were unable to run up the score despite playing some rather weak opponents. Goals should come at a premium here, and we might very well see the first 0-0 game of the tournament.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

 I think we're getting a great price on Serbi here as they open their World Cup campaign against Costa Rica on Sunday. With Switzerland and Brazil also in the group this is a "must win" game for both sides if they want to make it trough to the next round, something that should benefit Serbia and their direct style of football. 

Costa Rica took teams by surprise back in 2014, but opponents will be better prepared for them this time around. We can also note that they lost their last two friendly matches against England and Belgium, while also conceding six goals. 

10* SOCCER Game of the Week: Serbia. 

TOP RATED WORLD CUP GROUP D *BOOKIE BREAKER*

Nigeria cruised through their qualifying group and was the first African team to book their spot in Russia, but I think they'll come up short here. 

Croatia have a great mix of experience and skill with world-class talent such as Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic among their ranks. Their weakness is on the defensive end of the pitch, but an extremely solid midfield and dangerous strikers well make up for it. 

We can also note that they own a good record against teams from outside of Europe and South America, having won eight of their last 10 games against such opponents. 

Nigeria have the youngest squad of any team in the competition and I fully expect Croatia to run away with this game. 

10* play on Croatia. 

TOP RATED SPAIN/PORTUGAL *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The preparations could no doubt have been better for Spain after having sacked head coach Julen Lopetegui due to the fact that he was named the new Real Madrid boss only two days before their opening World Cup match with Portugal. 

Fernando Hierro will take over the managerial responsibilities, and I think this will unite the squad and that they'll react in a good way. Hierro is taking over one of the most talented groups anywhere on the planet, and they have a great mix of experience and youth. 

Portugal is a one-man-band with Cristiano Ronaldo carrying the team, and while it's enough to beat poor and mediocre teams, I don't see them being able to hurt a side like Spain.

10* play on Spain. 

IRAN/MOROCCO *MONEYMAKER*

Both Iran and Morocco rely on a solid defense. Morocco conceded just one goal in their eight games in qualifying for the World Cup and the only team not to concede a single goal in the third round of CAF qualifiers (six games). Iran gave up only five goals in their 18 qualifying matches and were unbeaten, winning 12 games and drawing the other six. With this expected to be a low-scoring affair, I think we're getting great value on the draw. 

5* play on DRAW.

WORLD CUP GROUP A *NO BRAINER*

Uruguay are without a doubt the best team in Group A, and I expect them to kick off the tournament with an easy win against Egypt.

Egypt are sweating the fitness of their star man, free-scoring Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah. He sustained a serious shoulder injury in last month’s Champions League final defeat and is doubtful for this contest. 

Uruguay have a tremendous front pairing in Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez, both capable of winning this game on their own and they have an extremely solid center-back duo in captain Diego Godin and Jose Giminez. Uruguay's solid core will be too much for Egypt to handle. 

8* play on Uruguay. 

2018 FIFA WORLD CUP OPENER

Make no mistake, this Russia team is not great, or even good, but the home nation is quite "fortunate" to be matched up with one of the absolute weakest sides of the tournament here in the opener of 2018 FIFA World Cup. 

Russia have consistency, experience and home advantage (which should be massive) while Saudi Arabia have an inexperienced squad and have fired two coaches since qualifying for the tournament. They're in their first World Cup since 2006 and are winless in their last 10 games at the World Cup, losing eight of them.

Also, I don't claim to have any inside information, but let's think about it; would Russia's big leader (not the coach) allow his team to lose the tournament opener after all these years of preparation...?

Let's keep the stake down due to the excessive juice though. 

5* play on Russia. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLS)

The LA Galaxy are coming off back-to-back 1-0 triumphs, and I think they'll be involved in another low-scoring contest when hosting FC Dallas Wednesday night. 

"We’ve gutted out the last two games," LA Galaxy manager Sigi Schmid said after the most recent victory. "But, the main thing is that we’ve played to zero, and as we said at halftime we said look just keep it a zero, we’ll find a goal. This is a team that will somehow find a goal. And, we found a goal. So, what I’m happy with is that I think defensively over the last two games, we’ve bent a little bit, but we’ve been stronger."

Dallas have allowed just 11 goals in 11 games on the season for the best defensive record in the Western Conference and we can note that Galaxy will be without suspended striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic for this matchup. 

10* MLS Game of the Week: Under

GAME OF THE MONTH (SOCCER)

West Bromwich have improved down the stretch but will never the less be relegated after this game. West Brom caretaker manager Darren Moore admits he may make changes to his relegated side and I think this is a great price on Crystal Palace who will want to put on a show in front of the home fans in the last game of the season. Crystal Palace have gone five games without defeat and they've scored eight goals in the last two games home at Selhurst Park. 

10* Game of the Month (Soccer): Crystal Palace. 

TOP RATED PREMIER LEAGUE *MIDWEEK MADNESS* TOTAL

Chelsea are coming off five consecutive wins, and they've allowed a total of just three goals during that stretch with three straight clean sheets. Huddersfield have scored just 11 goals in their 18 games on the road this season and are desperate for points to avoid relegation. Each of Huddersfield's last eight games have seen a maximum of two goals. 

10* play on Huddersfield @ Chelsea to go UNDER 3 goals. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

Liverpool are likely to be drained, both physically and mentally, after a tough game against Roma in the Champions League semi-finals midweek. The Reds have won only three of their last 11 Premier League matches directly following a Champions League fixture, and who could blame them for eyeing the upcoming Champions League final already. They'll visit a Chelsea side which has had a disappointing season overall, but picked up the pace down the stretch coming off four straight victories. Chelsea are trying to catch Liverpool or Tottenham for a place in the top four, and I think the focused and rested home team will get the job done in this contest.

10* play on Chelsea. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (BIG PAYOUT)

Everton are coming off back-to-back wins against Newcastle and Huddersfield but are stuck in "no man's land" with only two games left of the season. Southampton meanwhile are coming off an important 2-1 win over Bournemouth but are still parked in the relegation zone at 18th place, one point behind Swansea in 17th. There should be a huge motivational advantage for the visitors in this matchup, and I'm going for a BIG PAYOUT on the road team to win this game outright. 

8* play on Southampton. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (SOCCER)

Arsenal are awful on the road and have already lost nine Premier League away games this season. They're the only club in the top four English divisions to have lost all of their away league fixtures in 2018. I expect manager Arsene Wenger to make changes to the Arsenal team that faced Atletico Madrid in midweek, giving the home team a clear advantage in this contest. 

Manchester United are unbeaten in 10 home league matches against Arsenal (W7, D3) since September 2006. They're a solid 13-2-2 with a 35-8 goal differential home at Old Trafford in the Premier League this season.

10* Soccer Game of the Month on Manchester United. 

SATURDAY *PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER* (TOTAL)

Liverpool have scored the second most goals in the Premier League this season, but the focus is not on the league anymore. They're likely to rest key pieces and give fringe players time on the field here with a second-leg tie with Roma in the Champions League semi-finals on the schedule next week. 

Stoke are in a tough position, entering Saturday in the relegation zone and they likely need to win each of their remaining three games to avoid relegation. They can't afford to allow Liverpool to score the first goal and chase the game, especially with their own offensive struggles (just 32 goals in 35 games in EPL this season).

8* play on Stoke @ Liverpool to go UNDER the total. 

SUNDAY PREMIER LEAGUE TOTAL

We'll see a classic London derby at Emirates on Sunday when Arsenal host West Ham. I don't think we'll be entertained with many goals in this contest.

Arsenal have all their focus on Europa League and might very well rest players for the upcoming game against Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals next week. West Ham have played pretty good defense lately, coming off back-to-back 1-1 draws against Stoke and Chelsea. 

This will be the third meeting of the season, and the previous two matchups saw a total of just one goal scored. 

8* play on UNDER. 

PREMIER LEAGUE *PUNISHER*

Write up posted shortly

5* play on Liverpool. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE *PUNISHER*

West Ham and Stoke are both battling for their Premier League life with the Hammers just six points above the relegation zone and Stoke second to last, five points from safety. 

Stoke's form is terrible, coming off four straight defeats and they have scored just seven Premier League goals this calendar year, fewer than any other side. They're the worst road team in the league with just eight points and 10 defeats in their 16 games away from home. 

West Ham have won two of their last three at home and could be boosted by the return from injury of Andy Carroll, James Collins and Manuel Lanzini. The confidence should be high after recording a 1-1 draw at Chelsea on April 8, and this looks like good price on the home team IMO. 

10* play on West Ham United. 

Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League game (no clean sheets during that stretch) and they're banged up at the defensive end of the field. They took a 3-1 loss to Tottenham here at Stamford Bridge their last time out.

West Ham are coming off a 3-0 win against Southampton but had conceded a total of 11 goals in three straight defeats prior to that triumph. The Hammers are only five points above the relegation zone so they're in dire need of points while Chelsea would need a small miracle to catch any of the top 4 teams. 

8* play on West Ham @ Chelsea to go OVER the total. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League game (no clean sheets during that stretch) and they're banged up at the defensive end of the field. They took a 3-1 loss to Tottenham here at Stamford Bridge their last time out.

West Ham are coming off a 3-0 win against Southampton but had conceded a total of 11 goals in three straight defeats prior to that triumph. The Hammers are only five points above the relegation zone so they're in dire need of points while Chelsea would need a small miracle to catch any of the top 4 teams. 

8* play on West Ham +1.5. 

SOCCER 3-PACK

Manchester City have already all but won the league, entering this game 16 points clear of 2nd placed Manchester United. I think they'll show up for this game after taking a 3-0 loss to Liverpool in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals earlier this week. I don't see Pep Guardiola resting key players here as the team needs to build some momentum for the second leg next week. 

United have lost eight of the last 13 league Manchester derbies and we can note that City are unbeaten in their last 27 home league games (W22, D5), winning the last 14 in a row. United meanwhile have only won one of their last 10 away league games against any of the other "Big Six" teams in the league. 

8* play on Manchester City.

SOCCER 3-PACK

Liverpool are coming off an impressive 3-0 win over Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. They've won three in a row and seven of their last nine, outscoring opponents by a total of 23-2 in the triumphs. Liverpool have lost just twice in their last 11 away Premier League games (W8, D1) and over is 13-3 in their 16 road games in the league this season. Six of Everton's last eight games have seen three goals or more. 

8* play on Liverpool.

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

Liverpool are coming off an impressive 3-0 win over Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. They've won three in a row and seven of their last nine, outscoring opponents by a total of 23-2 in the triumphs. Liverpool have lost just twice in their last 11 away Premier League games (W8, D1) and over is 13-3 in their 16 road games in the league this season. Six of Everton's last eight games have seen three goals or more. 

10* Soccer Game of the Week play on LIV @ EVE to go OVER the total. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

We lost with Leicester City as our soccer Game of the Week last Saturday as they managed just a 1-1 draw with Stoke despite a huge dominance in possession and goals-scoring opportunities. I expect the Foxes to deliver the goods this week instead when they host Bournemouth.

Leicester have won just two of their last 11 league games, but I like what I've seen on the pitch lately and forward Shinji Okazaki could be available here after a three-match lay-off with a knee injury. Bournemouth have only kept one clean sheet in their last 15 Premier League games and Leicester should score plenty of goals after last week's disappointing result. 

My SOCCER Game of the Week is a 10* play on Leicester. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Manchester City defeated Arsenal 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final at neutral ground (Wembley) on Sunday. Here they'll visit the Gunners at Emirates Stadium, but I think they'll get the job done on the road as well.

Man City are sitting top of the table, 13 points clear of Man United while Arsenal are just 6th, eight points behind Chelsea in 5th. The Gunners have won only one of their eight league games this season against the other teams in the top six and failed to keep a clean sheet in each of their last nine Premier League games. Man City have plenty of offensive firepower and should have no trouble to take advantage of this leaky Arsenal defense. 

My selection is an 8* play on Man City. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Manchester United will host Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday, and I think goals will come at a premium for both sides. 

United have conceded just five goals in 13 Premier League home games this season while Chelsea have won just two of their last nine away matches in all competitions (D4, L3), often struggling to score. We can also note that Chelsea have scored only one goal through their last four visits to Old Trafford. 

Each of Man U's last five games all competitions included have gone under 2.5 goals.

My selection is an 8* play on Under

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

I Really like Leicester to come through with a victory when they host Stoke early on Saturday. Leicester are undefeated through their last six home games in the league and FA Cup, winning four of those games. Stoke are winless through their last nine on the road all competitions included, losing six of those. They have managed just one win away from home in EPL this season, losing nine times out of 13!

King Power Stadium has not been a happy place for the Potters in their recent visits. In their last two visits they’ve failed to score and conceded a total of five goals (2-0, 3-0). Furthermore, Stoke have not won against Leicester in five attempts (D3, L2).

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Leicester. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

Barcelona will visit Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie. Chelsea are coming off a pair of dominant wins against Hull and West Brom, but they've won just four of their past 12 games in all competitions and it's a huge step in competition here, taking on a Barca side that is seven points clear at the top of La Liga. Barcelona have the best defensive record in the Champions League this season, conceding only one goal in six games. They enter this game riding an eight-game undefeated run in all competitions, where they have conceded just two goals while scoring 15 times.

Chelsea will no doubt have trouble scoring while the Los Blaugranas rarely leave a game scoreless thanks to world class strikers like Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi. 

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Barcelona. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

The last time these two teams met was back in September of last year, when Barcelona made light work of Eibar as they claimed a 6-1 win. They've won each of the last seven meetings by at least two goals and Barca will enter this contest looking to end a two-game winless streak in La Liga. They're still top of the table, but Atletico Madrid are now only seven points behind so Barcelona will want to try everything in their power to retain that gap. Eibar have only recorded one loss in their last 12 La Liga outings, but they've been leaky at home of late, not keeping a clean sheet on their own turf in six league home games.

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Barcelona. 

TOP RATED 10* CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CRU$HER

We backed Tottenham to beat Arsenal over the weekend (which they did), but I think they're in for a tougher game when they visit Juventus in the first leg of the first round of the Champions League knockout round here on Tuesday. Note that Spurs have had just three days of rest since that draining performance against the Gunners while Juventus have had four days rest since a comfortable 2-0 triumph over Fiorentina. The Italians are in terrific form, entering this game on an 11-game winning streak and they've conceded just one goal through their last 16 games!

My selection is a 10* play on Juventus. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Newcastle have the worst home record in the top flight and they've not won at home in the league since October. They have scored just 11 goals while conceding 15 in 13 games in front of the home fans, and I expect another low-scoring contest when they host Man United on Sunday.

The visitors are still trying to figure out how to get the best out of recently signed Alexis Sanchez, and we can note that Sanchez has played four Premier League games against Newcastle without scoring.

Manchester United have allowed a league-best 18 goals this season and kept clean sheets in five of their last six Premier League games. I expect them to sit back and try and kill the game rather than keep going forward if they were to take the lead. 

My selection is a 10* play on Man U @ Newcastle to go UNDER the total. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

Arsenal defeated Everton 5-1 their last time out, but that was home at the Emirates. They've struggled on the road and we can note that they're winless in 15 Premier League away games against the current top five clubs. Tottenham are trying to chase down 2nd-placed Man Utd and they've gone 12 home games without defeat in the Premier League, winning eight of the past 10. 

Spurs have scored in 14 successive Premier League games since a 2-0 defeat at Arsenal on 18 November while the Gunners have gone eight league games without a clean sheet since mid-December. Harry Kane has scored six goals in six league games against Arsenal and could very well prove to be the deciding factor here. 

My SOCCER Game of the Week is a 10* play on Tottenham. 

TOP RATED 10* EPL PUNISHER TOTTENHAM @ LIVERPOOL

Tottenham won the last encounter with Liverpool 4-1, and I think goals will come fast and easy for both teams when they clash at Anfield Road on Sunday. Note that Spurs Harry Kane has scored 18 goals in his last 13 Premier League away games.

Both teams are battling for Champions League/Europa League spots, and Liverpool in particular have a propensity of being involved in high-scoring affairs when taking on top opponents. Just look at the following results:  

Liverpool – Manchester City: 4-3
Arsenal – Liverpool: 3-3
Tottenham – Liverpool: 4-1
Liverpool – Manchester United: 0-0
Liverpool – Chelsea: 1-1
Manchester City – Liverpool: 5-0
Liverpool – Arsenal: 4-0

Expect fireworks. 

My selection is a 10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

Manchester United are likely to hand Alexis Sanchez his home debut when they host Huddersfield on Saturday, but I still think goals will come at a premium for both sides. United will try to bounce back from a 2-0 loss to Tottenham which ended an eight-game unbeaten league run. It also ended a sequence of four successive league clean sheets. Huddersfield have lost their last four league games and scored in just three of their 12 away league fixtures. I expect a 1-0, 2-0 win for the home side, and I think we're getting an excellent number on the total. 

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Manchester United have had an exceptional start to 2018 with five straight victories no goals conceded. I think their stellar defensive play continues here when they visit Tottenham on Wednesday. Spurs are coming off back-to-back 1-1 draws and they've conceded just nine goals in 12 home games in the Premier League this season. Man U won the first meeting of the season 1-0, and goals are likely to be scarce this time around as well. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

West Ham United are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches against Crystal Palace, winning three and drawing two. They took a 2-0 loss at Wigan in the FA Cup a couple of days ago but are undefeated through their last five in the league, winning two and drawing three. Here they'll host a Crystal Palace side that has lost each of its last two on the road, getting outscored 6-2 in the process. Terrific price on the home side for a draw-no-bet pick here. 

My selection is a 10* play on West Ham United PK. 

TOP RATED 10* CARABAO CUP CA$H COW

The first leg of this Carabao Cup semi-final tie ended in a 0-0 draw, and I think we'll see another cagey affair when London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea clash at the Emirates Stadium Wednesday night. 

Arsenal have lost their superstar Alexis Sanchez to Manchester United. They got Henrikh Mkhitaryan (plus cash) in exchange, but he's cup tied for this contest and both Danny Welbeck and Olivier Giroud are out injured, making Arsenal a little light in the offensive area. 

Chelsea boast a rock solid defense and has conceded only 16 goals in 24 Premier League games on the season. They'll surely sit back and hope to score on the counter, but Arsenal can't afford to get too offensive as a goal conceded would be devastating due to the away goal rule. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* MONDAY PREMIER LEAGUE MONEYMAKER

Liverpool are coming off five straight triumphs, including an impressive 4-3 victory against Man City last week. I don't think they'll have any trouble with Swansea who are parked at the bottom of the table with 35 goals conceded through 23 games. Liverpool have scored the second most goals in the Premier League and five of their last six wins on the road were by a two-goal margin or more. 

My selection is a 10* play on Liverpool -1.5. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Southampton are having a terrible season, entering this contest in the relegation zone and winless (5D, 5L) through their last 10 games. Here they'll face a Tottenham side that is 8-1-1 through its last 10 games all competitions included (lone loss during that stretch against Man City) and coming off a 4-0 triumph over Everton. They've won three straight meetings with the Saints, the most recent a 5-2 victory in Boxing Day. 

My selection is an 8* play on Tottenham. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Burnley and Manchester United played a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford a couple of weeks ago. I think we'll see plenty of goals again when the teams clash on Turf Moor this Saturday.

Burnley have lost four of their last six games and conceded a total of 12 goals during that stretch. Man United will no doubt be throwing everything they got forward in their bid to catch Man City at the top of the table, not only for points but also goal differential. Manchester United's road games have seen an average of 2.9 gpg, and I think we'll see at least three goals in this contest. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

West Ham United enter this contest unbeaten in their last six games in all competitions (W3, D3) and they've scored an impressive 15 goals through their last six Premier League contests. Here they'll host a Bournemouth side that has kept just one clean sheet through its last eight and is winless (D3, L4) through its last seven away games in all competitions. 

The Hammers have played up to their potential since manager David Moyes took over from Slaven Bilic, and I think they'll keep rolling' here. 

My selection is a 10* play on West Ham United. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (SOCCER)

Manchester City have just about ran away with the Premier League already, despite being close to only halfway through the season as they're currently 15 points clear of Manchester United at the top of the table with an astonishing 64-13 goal differential. They're aiming to go through the season unbeaten so there's no way they'll look past the Reds here at Anfield. 

Man City have conceded only five goals in 11 away games on the season and here they'll face a Liverpool side just lost its best player in Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona.

The Citizens annihilated Liverpool 5-0 at the Etihad back in September and Pep Guardiola clearly has Jurgen Klopp and his all-out-attack tactics figured out. 

My Soccer Game of the Month is a 10* play on Manchester City. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Swansea enter this matchup dead last in the Premier League with only 13 goals scored through 22 games. Newcastle have had a poor first half of the season as well, but they've won three of their last five and conceded just two goals through their last four games. I expect the visitors to "park the bus" in order to try and escape with a 0-0 draw, leading to a low-scoring contest. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* THURSDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

West Ham United have had a disappointing first half of the season, but they're coming off a solid month of December. The Hammers have recorded 3 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses (each defeat by just one goal) through their last eight games, despite facing Arsenal x 2, Chelsea and Man City during that stretch. West Ham are desperate for points entering this contest just one point above the relegation zone, and I think they'll give London rivals Tottenham all they can handle here.

Note that Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has never lost to West Ham dito David Moyes in a Premier League match, but he also has just one win and three draws. There have only been three goals in their four meetings and I expect the Hammers to keep this a close game. 

My selection is a 10* play on West Ham +1.5

MIKE'S NEW YEAR'S DAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Manchester United are coming off three straight draws, the most recent a 0-0 result against Southampton only two days ago. They lost striker Romelu Lukaku to a head injury in that game, and goals won't come easy here with Zlatan Ibrahimovic also ruled out for a month with a knee problem. 

Everton manager Sam Allardyce have done a great job with the team defensively since taking, conceding only four goals in nine (league and cup) games. The Toffees are not scoring a ton either though, and they've been shut out in two of their last three games. Former Man Utd striker Wayne Rooney leads Everton with 10 league goals, but surely the Red Devils' defenders will make a point of keeping him scoreless. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Tottenham Hotspur look like a solid home favorite when they host Southampton on Boxing Day. The visitors have just one win through their last 10 games and they've scored just one goal in eight Premier League road games on the season. Tottenham meanwhile have won three of their last four league games and scored 11 goals during this period. They're unbeaten in their last 11 league games played on Boxing Day, winning eight of them. Southampton haven't kept a clean sheet in 10 Premier League games and I expect Spurs prolific offense to be too much to handle here. 

My selection is a 5* play on Tottenham. 

SOCCER 3-PACK

Man United took a shocking 2-1 loss against Bristol City in the EFL Cup midweek. I expect to see a quick response when they visit Leicester City on Saturday. 

Leicester's 3-0 home defeat by Crystal Palace last weekend ended their four-match winning streak and they followed that up with a loss after penalties to Man City in the EFL Cup midweek. 

Leicester have lost all five league fixtures this season against the teams that begin this round of matches in the top five of the table and this looks like a tough matchup with 2nd placed United. The Red Devils' manager Jose Mourinho has won five of his six league encounters with Leicester and United have won three on the road. 

My selection is an 8* play on Man Utd. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

West Ham United have turned a corner under new manager David Moyes and picked up seven points in their last three games, despite facing both Arsenal and Chelsea during that stretch. The Hammers have kept clean sheets in each of those three contests and here they'll host a Newcastle side in shambles, entering this game without a win in nine Premier League games (D1, L8). 

Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic remains out with a back injury and manager Rafael Benitez will assess several players with minor injuries.

West Ham have won their last two Premier League home games against Newcastle, and this looks like an excellent price on the Hammers to keep that run going. 

My EPL Game of the Week is a 10* play on West Ham United. 

SOCCER 3-PACK

This is probably the last chance for Real Madrid to save the domestic season, entering this game in 4th place, 11 points behind unbeaten league leaders Barcelona. Real Madrid can not afford not to win this game, and I think they'll come through in front of the home fans at Santiago Bernabéu. 

Real Madrid forwards Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale are both "100%" ready to play in El Clasico against Barcelona after fitness problems, says boss Zinedine Zidane. Ronaldo worked alone earlier this week, with a calf knock, but trained properly on Friday - while Bale is recovering from a calf problem

Real Madrid have won the last two Clasicos, both in this year's Spanish Super Cup (3-1 at Nou Camp and 2-0 at Bernabeu).

My selection is an 8* play on Real Madrid. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (SOCCER)

Leicester City have lost just one of their last 11 games, and they enter Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace as winners of four straight. We can also note that they're unbeaten in each of their last four Premier League encounters with Crystal Palace (W3, D1). 

Palace are undefeated through their last six games, but they've failed to score a single goal through eight away games this season! Their star striker Christian Benteke is without a goal in his last 13 Premier League games overall - his longest barren run in the division. Leicester meanwhile have only failed to score in one of their last 15 league games at home. 

This is a terrific price on Leicester IMO. 

My Premier League Game of the Month is a 10* play on Leicester City.

WEDNESDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

I think West Ham look good to get at least a point when they host Arsenal on Wednesday. The Gunners have won just two of their eight top-flight games on the road this season (D2, L4) while West Ham's three Premier League wins have all come at home, having beaten Huddersfield, Swansea and most recently Chelsea. 

My selection is an 8* play on West Ham. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

It's too early to talk about a "must win game", but 2nd placed Manchester United surely can't afford to let league-leading Manchester City win here and pull even further away at the top of the Premier League table. Already trailing by eight points, I have no doubt that Jose Mourinho will go for the win here. 

United have won four in a row, including an impressive 3-1 win at Arsenal last weekend. Man City took a 2-1 loss at Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine) in the Champions League midweek while Man United took care of business against CSKA Moscow at home.  

This is too good of a price on Man United at home to pass up on. BIG BET on United. 

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Manchester United. 

TOP RATED 10* CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TOTAL

Real Madrid have already secured their place in the last 16 of the Champions League while Dortmund are battling for 3rd place in the group and a Europa League spot. Dortmund have a ton of injuries though with Durm, Rode, Reus, Liszczek, Philipp, Castro, Götze and Toljan all set to miss this game. Real Madrid are likely to rest their superstars with this game meaning next to nothing for them, and I expect an uninspired performance from both teams leading to few goals. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

TUESDAY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BANKROLL BUILDER

Chelsea will host Atletico Madrid in the last game of the group stage for both teams, and I like the home team to come through with a win. 

Chelsea, are guaranteed a spot in last 16 already, and they would finish top of the group with victory here at Stamford Bridge. Atletico meanwhile need to go for the win in order to catch second placed Roma who are two points ahead. I think we'll see a wide open affair, favoring the home team who will have fresher legs. 

Note that Chelsea have an outstanding home record against Spanish opposition in the Champions League. Of 15 such occasions, the Blues have lost just twice (Barcelona, Atletico), drawing four and winning the remaining nine. Atletico have failed to even register a goal away from home in the Champions League this year. 

My selection is an 8* play on Chelsea. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER) - MIKE'S MAN U @ ARSENAL BEST BET

Manchester United are coming off a 4-2 win at Watford, but the visitors manager Jose Mourinho is likely to take a more cautious approach when his Man U side visits Arsenal on Saturday. 

So far this season Manchester United have visited Liverpool (0-0) and Chelsea (1-0 loss) of the top teams, both low-scoring affairs, and that's pretty always much been Mourinho's approach when visiting top sides, to just lock down defensively, go for the 0-0 draw and take the point. 

We can also note that Man U's striker Romelu Lukaku is struggling to find the net with just one goal in his last 11 games after finding the net 11 times in his first 10 appearances for the club. The Gunners are solid at home and have conceded just four goals at the Emirates on the season, three of which came in the 4-3 opening day win over Leicester City.

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Man U @ Arsenal Under 2.5 goals 

TUESDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Man United are going through a tough part of the schedule with a ton of games in short period of time. They looked sluggish in their 1-0 win over Brighton over the weekend, and I predict another low-scoring contest when they visit Watford on Tuesday. United have struggled to impose themselves in the final third in recent games away from home, scoring just once in their last three PL road games. Watford have recorded successive league wins for the first time this season, keeping clean sheets in both games while Jose Mourinho's United have conceded just six goals so far this season. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Arsenal defeated Tottenham last weekend, but that's also their lone win through their last five games all competitions included. They took a loss at Koln in the Europa League on Thursday and fatigue might be an issue here. Burnley are extremely strong home at Turf Moor, going undefeated their since losing to WBA in the season opener. They have some impressive results this season with draws with Tottenham and Liverpool and a win against Chelsea. Impressive. 

My selection is a 10* play on Burnley +1

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER) MIKE'S TOP RATED EPL MAJOR WAGER

Liverpool's performance at Seville in the Champions League earlier this week should be enough to to motivate this pick alone. They held a 3-0 lead after the first half but gave up three goals in the second half to go home with just a draw. Liverpool have plenty of offensively talented players, but they really struggle at the back. Chelsea are coming off back-to-back 4-0 victories, the most recent at Qarabag in the Champions League mid-week. They won comfortably despite resting Alvaro Morata, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Andreas Christensen and Gary Cahill, and manager Antonio Conte also had the luxury to haul Edin Hazard, Marcos Alonso and N'Golo Kante off early. I think we'll see two sides going for the win, resulting in a wide open and high-scoring contest.

My EPL Game of the Week is a 10* play on Over. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Manchester United took a 1-0 loss at Basel in the Champions League earlier this week. Here they'll host Brighton, a team that has exceeded all expectations so far in its first season in the English top flight. Brighton are undefeated through their last five games, and while I think United will grind out a win in the end, I like Brighton to keep it close.  

My selection is an 8* play on Brighton. 

EUROPA LEAGUE BOOKIE BASHER

Neither Ostersund or Zorya Luhansk were given much of a chance to go through from this Europa League group, also containing Athletic Bilbao and Hertha Berlin. They're however the two teams top of the table entering round five of the group stage, and I think Ostersund will keep rolling at home here and secure their spot in the next round with a win. It's been snowing quite heavily in northern Sweden the last couple of days, and the weather plus the artificial turf they'll play on will benefit the home team. Zorya Luhansk are winless through their last five games all competitions included and this looks like a good price on the home team. 

My selection is an 8* play on Ostersund. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BANKROLL BUILDER

Manchester United will visit Basel in the Champions League on Wednesday, and I think they'll return home to England with three more points and a guaranteed group victory. Man U defeated Basel 3-0 home at Old Trafford a couple of weeks ago and they're coming off a dominant display in last weekend's 4-1 win against Newcastle. Basel are second in the group, but they had gone three straight games all competitions included without a win before defeating Sion 5-1 last weekend. They took a 3-1 loss against CSKA Moscow at home their last time out in the Champions League, and today's opponent is much much stronger than CSKA. 

My selection is an 8* play on Man Utd. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BANKROLL BUILDER

Sevilla host Liverpool in the Champions League on Tuesday, and I would be very surprised if we won't see at least four goals in this contest.

Liverpool enter this game on a four-game winning streak, scoring a total of 13 goals in the process. Their defending often leaves a lot to be desired though, and Sevilla no doubt have the weapons to hurt them. Each of Sevilla's last seven games have seen three goals or more and we saw a 2-2 draw when they took on Liverpool at Anfield about two months ago.

My selection is an 8* play on Over.

MONDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Brighton are doing surprisingly well here in their first season in the Premier League, particularly at home where they've picked up eight points in five games (2W 2D 1L). On Monday they'll host a Stoke City side that has picked up only four points in five games on the road (1W 1D 3L), with 11 goals conceded in those games. Brighton forward Glenn Murray has scored four goals in his last three games and he won't have to worry about injured Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland. 

My selection is an 8* play on Brighton. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE GAME OF THE WEEK

Arsenal are undefeated home at Emirates Stadium through five Premier League games this season, but I think that winning streak will come to an end when they host North London rivals Tottenham on Saturday. Spurs have the second best road record in the league with four wins and a loss, and they're undefeated through the last six PL meetings with Arsenal with two wins and four draws. 

Tottenham have a well oiled machine with all players well happy to fight for manager Mauricio Pochettino while Arsenal's two superstars Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil seem to be all but happy with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. 

We can also note that Spurs trio Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Harry Winks are all expected to feature despite pulling out of the England squad during the International break. Good time for them to rest and recover. 

With the risk of a draw, I recommend taking Tottenham +0, which gives us our stake back in case of a draw. 

My Premier League Game of the Week is a 10* play on Tottenham PK. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER MAN U @ CHELSEA

Manchester United will visit Chelsea on Sunday, and I think there's good value on the visitors at +0 (PK, draw no bet) in this matchup. 

It's extremely hard to score on Man U as they've conceded just four goals in 10 Premier League games on the season. Manager Jose Mourinho will surely come here with a defensive game plan hoping to hit Chelsea on the counter. As a former manager of Chelsea he knows this team inside and out, and I'm sure he'll find a way to exploit their few weaknesses

Note that the Blues have lost two league games home at Stanford Bridge already this season and they took a 3-0 beating at Rome in the Champions League earlier this week. Man U meanwhile must feel very confident, having lost just one game in all competitions this season. 

My selection is an 8* play on Manchester United. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER) - MIKE'S TOP RATED 10* EPL BEST BET

Newcastle opened their return to the Premier League with a pair of losses, but they've been doing quite well since. They enter the weekend with the fifth best home record in the English top flight while visiting Bournemouth have just one win and four losses through their five games on the road. Bournemouth have an abysmal 6-14 goal differential through 10 games overall this season, and one single Newcastle goal could very well be enough to clinch this game. 

As a bonus we can note that Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has lost just once in 58 home top-flight games played on a Saturday (W47, D10) and he has won 66% of his home games in charge of Newcastle, with 25 victories from 38 games in all competitions.

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Newcastle United. 

TOP RATED 10* EUROPA LEAGUE LEADOFF BANKROLL BUILDER

Spanish Athletic Bilbao are massive favorites when they host Swedish Ostersund in the Europa League on Thursday, despite the visitors sitting top of the table with seven points in three games while Bilbao are third in the group with just two points.

Ostersund are undefeated through their last seven games (5W, 2D) all competitions included, including a 2-2 draw at home against this Bilbao team two weeks ago. Bilbao meanwhile are winless through their last four games (2D, 2L). 

Do not underestimate Ostersund, I would not be surprised to see them travel back home with a point and I really don't see them losing by more than one goal.

My selection is a 10* play on Ostersund +1.5 goals. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LEADOFF WINNER

These two teams met in Germany two weeks ago, a contest RB Leipzig claimed in an entertaining game that finished 3-2. Porto have scored nine and conceded one in three domestic games since, and I think we'll see plenty of goals here.

These are the two sides battling for second place in Group G behind Besiktas, and a draw would no neither team any good.

Leipzig are coming off a 2-0 loss to Bayern Munich, but I don't see them getting shut out in back-to-back games and this is a team with plenty of offensive talent. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

TOP RATED 10* CHAMPIONS LEAGUE UNDERTAKER - TOTAL BOOKIE BURIAL

Manchester United host Benfica in Champions League on Tuesday. They're coming off a 1-0 victory against Tottenham and have allowed just two goals through their last six games. They've kept clean sheets in 11 of their 15 games so far this season in all competitions. Man U won 1-0 at Benfica two weeks ago and are sitting top of Group A with a perfect nine points after three games. Their style of play may not be pretty, but it's effective. I think Man U manager Jose Mourinho would be happy with a draw here, and I wouldn’t completely rule out a 0-0 end result. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

MONDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PARTY STARTER

Burnley have won just one game home at Turf Moor this season while winning at both Chelsea and Everton while earning excellent draws away to Tottenham and Liverpool. I think they'll boost their home record with a win against Newcastle on Monday. The visitors have won four of their opening nine league games, but note that those victories were against West Ham, Swansea, Stoke, and Crystal Palace, clubs that occupied four of the bottom six places in the table going into this weekend's round of fixtures. We can also note that Newcastle have won only one of their past 15 Premier League away games (D3, L11).

I really don't think Newcastle should be favored in this matchup and I think this is an excellent price on Burnley, considering we'll get the money back in case of a draw.

My selection is an 8* play on Burnley. 

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Brighton are coming off an impressive 3-0 victory at West Ham. They had won three straight games here at Amex Stadium before settling for a 1-1 draw against Everton due to a late Wayne Rooney goal their last time out in front of the home fans.

Southampton have been a big disappointment this season, and I don't think they should be favorites here at Brighton.

Great value on the home team. 

My selection is an 8* play on Brighton & Hove. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Purely a stat driven play. EPL games involving Watford this season have witnessed 32 goals at 3.55 a game while games involving Stoke have seen a total of 30 goals at 3.33 per game.

Over/Under 2.5 goals 6-3 for both teams on the season.

My selection is an 8* play on Over.

GAME OF THE WEEK (EPL) 

Watford took a 4-2 beating at Chelsea their last game but defeated Arsenal 2-1 their last time out in front of the home fans at Vicarage Road. I think they look good to pick up another home win here as they host Stoke City who have lost three and picked up just one point in their four games on the road so far (they have won just one of their last 12 Premier League away games dating back to last season (D3, L8)). 

Stoke have lost six of their last seven games all competitions included and they have the worst defensive record in the English top flight with 20 goals conceded.

My EPL Game of the Week is a 10* play on Watford. 

TOP RATED 10* EFL CUP TUESDAY TOTAL

We lost with an under featuring Manchester United vs. Huddersfield over the weekend, but I'm backing the under again here when Man United clash with Swansea in the EFL Cup on Tuesday. Swansea are struggling to score and their top striker Wilfried Bony is doubtful for this midweek cup tie having been out with a hamstring injury. Man U will no doubt give a bunch of fringe players a run-around here with a tough matchup against Tottenham on deck this weekend. I bet manager Jose Mourinho wants to see a good defensive display though after giving up two goals last weekend, and I think we'll see a 1-0 away win or a 1-1 draw. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER) MIKE'S TOP RATED 10* EPL MAJOR WAGER

I think we'll see a low-scoring game when Manchester United visit Huddersfield on Saturday. 

Huddersfield have a 5-9 goal differential through their first eight games in the Premier League, so even though the visitors is the second highest scoring side in the EPL this season it could be difficult to breach the home defense here. 

We can also note that Man Utd have kept nine clean sheets in their last 10 EPL matches and could become the first team to keep eight clean sheets in their first nine games of a season.

The tough schedule is already starting to catch up with Man United, and they looked kind of sluggish in their 1-0 win at Benfica in the Champions League earlier this week. I think Jose Mourinho would be happy with another 1-0 victory here. 

My Soccer Game of the Week is a 10* play on Under. 

MONDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

We find Leicester down in the relegation zone with just five points in seven games as they head into this Monday matchup with the West Bromwich Albions. 

It's however easy to forgive them for being short on points when looking at their opening schedule with four of their first seven opponents named Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United. 

I like Leicester to put a beating on WBA here when taking on a more manageable opponent home at King Power Stadium. WBA are winless in five league matches, including successive away defeats. In fact, their only Premier League away win in this calendar year was 1-0 at Burnley in August (W1, D4, L7).

Note that Leicester forward Jamie Vardy is available to face West Brom, having made a full recovery from a hip problem during the international break.

My selection is an 8* play on Leicester.

PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER (TOTAL)

Southampton will host Everton in the Premier League on Sunday, and this has all the signs of a low-scoring affair. Note that Southampton have failed to score in eight of their last nine home matches in the Premier League. There have been under 2.5 goals scored in seven of Southampton's last eight home league games and they've tallied just five while conceding seven in seven games overall this season. Newcastle have scored seven while conceding six in seven league games on the season, and they're coming off a confidence boosting 1-1 draw against Liverpool. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

GAME OF THE YEAR (SOCCER) MIKE'S TOP RATED 10* EPL BEST BET

Manchester United are tied at the top of the table with their noisy neighbor Manchester City, both with 19 points (3W 1D 0L). This will be the Red Devils' first real test of the season as they visit Liverpool at Anfield Road. I think they'll pass, and this looks like an excellent price on the visitors in my opinion. 

Liverpool will have to do without speedy winger Sadio Mane who faces a six-week absence with a hamstring injury sustained while on international duty for Senegal. Often Liverpool's most dangerous attacker in big games, his absence is a huge blow. We can also note that Liverpool’s players have been well-traveled over the international break and could face a disadvantage, with the squad travelling a total of 75,484 miles by the time they return to Anfield for the return of the Premier League; 5,793 miles further than the Man Utd Squad (69,691 miles).

Liverpool have won just one of their lats six games all competitions included while Man United have won six straight with a blistering 20-2 goal differential.

Man United are undefeated through the last six Premier League meetings with four wins and a pair of draws. 

My Premier League/Soccer Game of the Year is a 10* play on Manchester United

WALES/IRELAND WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

1. Serbia 18 Pts
2. Wales 17 Pts
3. Ireland 16 Pts 

A Wales win against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff on Monday night would secure a World Cup qualifying play-off place, and possibly win the group and qualify directly if Serbia were to drop points against Georgia. A draw would not guarantee Wales reaching the play-offs so they'll definitely go for the win. The good news is that Ireland will push forward for a win as well with the chance to overtake Wales in the standings, but I like the home team to come out ahead. 

My selection is an 8* play on Wales. 

Swedish Soccer

My selection is an 8* play on IFK Ostersund.

SUPERETTAN AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE

Gefle are fighting to avoid relegation from Superettan (the Swedish second tied), entering this game fourth from the bottom. The form is good though, having won four of their last five games and scoring 11 goals in the process. Helsingborg meanwhile are trying to catch Trelleborg for the playoff spot and potential promotion to Allsvenskan, and they've been involved in several high-scoring contests lately despite coming off a 0-0 draw.

Helsingborg's 12 games on the road this season have seen an average of 3.1 goals per game while Gelfe's 12 home games have seen an average of 3.2 gpg. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE GAME OF THE WEEK

Before the season started I had West Ham as my sleeper pick in the Premier League. They've done very little to prove me right so far, but I like what I've seen in recent weeks. West Ham opened the campaign with three straight defeats, but they've picked up four points through their last three games, and their 3-2 loss to Tottenham in their most recent game is not a result to be ashamed of. 

It's positive to see the Hammers scoring goals, something visiting Swansea have struggled with all season. The Swans have managed just three goals through six league games (West Ham striker Javier Hernandez's total tally alone) and their last-minute loss to Watford at home their last time out can't be good for the team morale. 

My Premier League Game of the Week is on West Ham. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TOTAL WEDNESDAY

Both teams won their first game of the group stage, and I think we'll see two sides focused on not losing here. Man United are a big favorite (as they should be), but this is a long travel for the visitors and they might not have the legs or will to push the tempo here. CSKA have played great defense lately with three clean sheets through their last five games, and goals should come at a premium in this contest. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

Champions League Total

Borussia Dortmund host Real Madrid in the second game of the group stage on Tuesday. Dortmund lost their first game 3-1 at Tottenham, but they've done extremely well in Bundesliga with 16 points and a 19-1 goal differential through six games. 

Real Madrid meanwhile are struggling domestically but defeated APOEL 3-0 in their first game of the Champions League.

Dortmund really need to win this game, and that will give the visitors plenty of opportunities to hit them on the counter, something they do better than any other team in the world. 

These two teams face each other in the group stage last season as well, with both games finishing 2-2. Look for goals.

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE GAME OF THE WEEK

Premier League leading Manchester United will visit 9th placed Southampton on Saturday. The Red Devils have won all but one of their seven games all competitions included (a 2-2 draw at Stoke), and they've beaten each of their last three opponents by at least three goals. 

Southampton are coming off a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace and have lost just once in the league, but they have mediocre 4-4 goal differential in five EPL games. Their issues to score goals is a huge concern, especially here as that's not a problem at all for the visitors who boast a 16-2 goal-differential in their five Premier League games. 

Man United manager Jose Mourinho has a ton of competent players to choose from and he's extremely good at coming up with a game plan for all kinds of opponents. This is a great price on Manchester United to keep rolling. 

My Premier League Game of the Week is a 10* play on Manchester United. 

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Manchester United played a 2-2 draw at Stoke in their most recent Premier League game but they've won all other competitive games this season, all four of those victories were by at least two goals. 

Everton are coming off three straight defeats (all by at least two goals) and they took a 3-0 beating at Atalanta in the Europa League Thursday. It will be a tough ask for Ronald Koeman to have the squad ready again here on short rest. 

Man United defeated Basel 3-0 in the Champions League on Wednesday. They'll miss Paul Pogba who is out with a hamstring injury, but they enjoy the benefit of a really deep squad so the tight schedule and injuries shouldn't affect them as much as Everton. 

My selection is a 10* play on Man United -1.5.

TOP RATED 10* PREMIER LEAGUE GAME OF THE WEEK

Crystal Palace are dead last in the Premier League, without both a single goal and a single point. They enter this game with a new manager in charge as former England boss Roy Hodgson takes over from Frank de Boer. 

I will say this though; Crystal Palace have played much better than the results would suggest, and Hodgson's arrival should provide a lift to the players and enough to deliver a win here. 

Southampton have five points to their name with just three goals scored through four games, all goals in a 3-2 victory against West Ham in Gameweek 2.   

The teams have split the last eight meetings, and I think this is a great price on Crystal Palace home at Selhurst Park. I'm going big here despite the long odds. 

My EPL Game of the Week is a 10* play on Crystal Palace. 

EUROPA LEAGUE TOTAL

Ostersund are arguably the biggest success story in the Europa League this season. They played their first season ever in the Swedish top flight last year and qualified for the Europa League by winning the domestic cup. They've knocked out some really strong sides on their way to the group stage, and they've done so playing positive and attacking football.

I think we'll see a wide open high-scoring contest when they travel to Ukraine to take on FC Zorya Lugansk on Thursday.

Zorya have plenty of Europa League experience, and they know they can't afford to drop points at home. I think they'll come out all guns blazing and we should see plenty of goal-scoring opportunities with both teams' strength on the ball.

Ostersund have scored in seven of their last eight games and Zorya in each of their last five (all five seeing at least three goals total). 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TOTAL

Both Napoli and Shaktar Donetsk are coming off six consecutive victories, and they've both scored at least two goals in each game during the winning streak. I think we'll see a wide open high-scoring encounter. Shaktar will won't back down in front of the home fans, and Napoli should get plenty of opportunities to hit the home team on the counter. No injuries to key players on either side, and I'm backing the over. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

JUVENTUS/BARCELONA ECL ENFORCER

Two teams with an amazing array of talent, but keep in mind that's true on both ends of the field. While names like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Paulo Dybala get the headlines, these sides rarely give up goals. Barcelona have started the domestic season with three straight clean sheets while Juventus have allowed two goals in three games in Serie A. 

Barca and Juventus played a 0-0 draw in the last meeting here at Camp Noi last year, and I predict another low-scoring contest as neither team want to start the Champions League campaign with a defeat. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

MONDAY PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

I had high hopes for West Ham United heading into the season, but they head into Monday's clash with Huddersfield off three straight losses and a 2-10 goal differential. I think they'll get the win they so desperately need here against Huddersfield.

The visitors are undefeated with two wins and a draw and three straight clean sheets in the process, but they've had a fairly easy schedule.

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic won't get many more games to turn it around, especially with the amount of talent he has at his disposal. I think he'll try every trick in the book to bag three points here, and that he will succeed. 

My selection is an 8* play on West Ham.