It's matchday two in Denmark, and FC Midtjylland is gearing up to face Silkeborg later today.

FC Midtjylland had a promising start to the season, securing a win against Hvidovre IF and performing well in their recent Europa League match.

On the other hand, Silkeborg suffered a loss at home against Brondby during the opening weekend and is fully aware of the challenges they will face during this away trip. Their performance in pre-season was inconsistent, which carried over into the opening weekend, resulting in three losses in their last five games.

While FC Midtjylland did lose a friendly match against Aalborg at the beginning of July, they have since displayed impressive form, winning their last four matches. As a result, they enter this fixture as clear favorites to achieve victory.

In previous encounters between these two clubs, the matches have been closely contested, with a 3-3 draw being the outcome in their last head-to-head. Moreover, two out of their last three meetings have ended in draws. However, one thing that remains constant is the abundance of goals in their clashes, with a total of 15 goals scored in their last three encounters.

Additionally, FC Midtjylland has a strong track record when hosting these games, having won four out of the last five occasions. Considering their current form and historical performance at home, I am confident that FC Midtjylland will emerge victorious in this fixture.

Back FC Midtjylland to secure the win.

Upon thoroughly analyzing this match and closely observing both teams' performances throughout the season, it becomes evident to me that the home side, Halmstad, is poised for a victory today.

While Halmstad's performances this season may not have been extraordinary, when compared to their opponents, they are performing significantly better. Currently holding the seventh spot with 25 points, they stand in stark contrast to Varberg, who languishes at the bottom of the league with a mere eight points from 16 games.

Halmstad's home record has been a mix of results, comprising three wins, three draws, and two losses this campaign. However, what's impressive is their unbeaten streak in the last eight league games, both at home and away, securing four wins in that period, including a notable 2-1 away triumph against today's opponents, Varberg.

On the contrary, Varberg has struggled on the road, managing only one away win out of eight games, suffering five defeats in the process. Their current form, home and away, over the last six matches has been disheartening, with five defeats and just one draw.

Despite my efforts to find reasons to hesitate in favor of Halmstad, I have been unsuccessful. While they may not be among the top-performing teams in the league, they are certainly far from being one of the worst. Positioned as a mid-table team, Halmstad is significantly stronger than Varberg, who has been in a dismal state lately.

Moreover, Halmstad playing in front of their passionate home fans only reinforces my conviction that they are destined for victory today, and I anticipate them to cover the spread comfortably.

Molde, the reigning Norwegian champions, face a challenging task in defending their title, as their chances of retaining it appear slim. However, they still have a strong incentive to secure a European spot, currently sitting just outside the qualifying positions. Therefore, a victory in this match becomes crucial.

Molde's away performances have been inconsistent this season, posing as a weakness for them. Nevertheless, there are signs of improvement as they notably defeated Valerenga 4-0 in their last road game and held the runaway league leaders, Bodo/Glimt, to a 2-2 draw at their home ground. Recent form suggests that they are starting to find their rhythm away from home and overall have won four and drawn one of their last five matches.

Stabaek, on the other hand, finds themselves dangerously close to the relegation zone. Dropping points is not an option for them, but their current position reflects the quality of their team and their recent results.

At the start of the season, Stabaek displayed strength at home, remaining undefeated in their first six home games. However, they have experienced a slight decline recently, with just one point earned in their last three home matches, contributing to an overall tally of only two points from their last seven league matches, both home and away.

Considering the above analysis, I have a strong conviction that Molde will emerge victorious in today's match. Their current form appears promising, while Stabaek's performance raises concerns. I am backing last season's champions to cover the 3/4 ball spread today.

The pick in this one has to be Australia and I am confident they will not only win this game but win it by a couple of goals.

The Nigerians did very well holding Canada to a 0-0 draw in their opening game, they were second-best throughout the game, they saw just 32% of the ball, managed just one shot on goal, although they did restrict the Canadians to just three shots on goal and had less than half the completed passes that Canada had.

There is no reason to think it will be any different in this game, the Aussies will dominate and it is just a question of how clinical they will be in front of the goal.

In terms of form, the Aussies have won 10 of their last 11  matches and rarely concede keeping seven clean sheets in those 11 games.

Nigeria have come into some sort of form winning three and drawing one of their last four, however, prior to that they had lost seven on the bounce and none of their recent wins was against one of the top sides.

One last factor is the home crowd, which is a huge advantage for the Aussies and all things carefully considered, the Australians winning and covering the spread is the bet I am placing with full confidence.

It is quite hard to oppose the USA and for very good reason. They are the tournament's favourites and while they were underwhelming in their first game, they did win it 3-0.

The reason I say underwhelming is that they were minus six on the spread, they shows what was expected from them.

The Netherlands also won their first game of the tournament, a very credible 1-0 win over Portugal but they will find the USA a lot more daunting an opponent.

Don't get me wrong, the Netherlands are a good side but they are not at the level of the States, for example, the USA are on a ten-game winning run,  whereas the Netherlands are 6-3 in wins to losses.

The spread has been generally set at 1/2 or 3/4 but in reality, it should be 1.5 so I am more than happy to take the USA giving up 3/4 on the spread.

Tromso will face Brann in what promises to be a closely contested encounter. Both clubs currently have 27 points on the league table and will be eager to secure a victory to improve their position.

Tromso's recent form has been mixed, with a defeat against Rosenborg in their last game, making it two consecutive matches without a win. Nonetheless, they have been stronger at home, having not lost any of their last three matches at their home ground.

Brann comes into this fixture with some confidence, having secured a win against Stromsgodset in their previous match. However, their record at Tromso's ground has not been impressive, with just one victory in the last five encounters there. Additionally, they have struggled in away matches, suffering two losses in their recent league games on the road.

With both teams determined to claim victory and create a three-point gap between them, the match is likely to be fiercely contested. Tromso will look to Vegard Erlien, their leading scorer, to find the back of the net and inspire his team to a much-needed win in front of their home supporters.

Based on the current scenario, the prediction for this fixture is that Tromso will not lose and therefore backing them with a 0 ball creates a good safety net in the event of a draw.

Molde is determined to secure a spot in the top three of the Norwegian league and secure a place in European competition as they take on Sarpsborg in this upcoming game.

Currently, Molde is just one point behind Brann, who holds the final European spot on the league table. They will be highly motivated to close this gap with a victory in this fixture. However, Sarpsborg will not make it easy for them.

Molde has been in exceptional form lately, with no losses and four wins in their last five league and cup matches, even managing a 2-2 draw against Bodo/Glimt. This impressive form indicates that Sarpsborg will have a tough time dealing with Molde's attacking prowess.

On the other hand, Sarpsborg arrives for this fixture on the back of a three-game losing streak in both the league and cup. This has cost them valuable points, and it seems like another defeat is likely when they face Molde.

Additionally, Molde has a remarkable record in head-to-head matches against Sarpsborg, winning the last four encounters. They have been dominant in their home games against Sarpsborg, securing six consecutive wins when hosting them.

Considering all these factors, the prediction for this game is that Molde will emerge victorious, likely winning by at least two goals. Their recent form and strong track record against Sarpsborg make them the favorites to secure a positive result in this fixture

In this upcoming game, Hacken has a chance to overtake Elfsborg at the top of the Swedish league table when they visit Vaernamo.

Hacken is just one point behind the league leaders, though they have played one more game. As the season enters a crucial stage, every team is expected to be focused and determined, and Hacken understands the importance of not underestimating their struggling hosts.

Vaernamo, with only 16 league points, is dangerously close to the relegation spots on the league table. This makes them vulnerable and an attractive target for the visiting Hacken side, which has been in superb form throughout the season.

Hacken comes into this fixture having won all their last four competitive games, including both legs of their Champions League qualifiers against TNS. Their top form and recent success make them strong contenders in this match against Vaernamo.

Furthermore, Vaernamo's home record has been disappointing, with three losses in their last five home matches. Additionally, their previous encounters with Hacken at home have resulted in two losses.

Considering Hacken's top shape and their eagerness to reclaim the top spot in the league, it is highly likely that they will emerge victorious in this fixture against Vaernamo.

The first round of fixtures in the Danish league includes an exciting game between Lyngby and Copenhagen, promising a thrilling encounter.

While some Scandinavian countries started their league seasons earlier, Denmark's calendar follows a different schedule, more closely aligned with other top European leagues. The Danish league features several strong teams, and both Lyngby and Copenhagen are known for providing exciting matches.

In their preparations for the season, Lyngby played four friendly matches and won just one. On the other hand, Copenhagen won two and lost one of their friendly games. Additionally, Copenhagen finished last season on a high note, which would boost their fans' confidence heading into the new campaign.

Copenhagen has been dominant in recent encounters between these two clubs, securing four wins and no losses in their last five meetings. Even when playing at Lyngby's ground, Copenhagen continues to assert its dominance, having won 3-0 in their previous visit.

While Lyngby will undoubtedly aim to start the season strongly, the odds are stacked against them in this fixture. Surprises can happen on the opening day of the season, but Copenhagen possesses the qualities and capabilities to secure a victory and beat the spread.

In this round of 16 league games, Swedish league leaders Elfsborg will face Djurgarden, aiming to move four points clear of Hacken at the top of the table.

Elfsborg's excellent form throughout much of the season has propelled them to the first position. However, in their last game, they were held to a draw at home by Goteborg, which could provide motivation for Djurgarden to target a victory against them.

Djurgarden is also in superb form, having won their last three league matches and remaining unbeaten in their last five games, including friendlies. Although they currently trail Elfsborg by six points in the standings, this game presents an opportunity for them to narrow the gap.

Notably, Djurgarden has been strong at home, maintaining an unbeaten record in the league so far. On the other hand, Elfsborg has been dominant in away matches, winning all their last five league games on the road. This suggests that the match is likely to be closely contested.

However, despite Elfsborg's current top position, their recent history at Djurgarden's ground has not been favorable, as they have only managed one win in their last eight visits. Additionally, dropping points at home in their previous fixture could affect their confidence.

Considering Djurgarden's solid home record and Elfsborg's struggles in previous visits, the prediction for this game is a victory for Djurgarden. The home team's form and advantage, coupled with Elfsborg's recent draw at home, indicate that Djurgarden has a good chance of coming out on top in this closely-fought encounter.

World Cup hosts Australia welcomes Ireland in a match that presents a perfect opportunity for the Aussies to make a winning start in front of their passionate home crowd.

Australia has been diligently preparing for this tournament and their recent track record is impressive, having won nine out of their last ten matches. Notably, they secured significant victories against European Champions England and Spain, who are considered strong contenders, ranked third behind England and the USA in the World Cup favorites list.

On the other hand, Ireland's performance has been less inspiring lately. They managed only one win in their last five matches, which came against the lower-ranked team Zambia. In contrast, they suffered defeats at the hands of the USA twice and France, conceding six goals and failing to score any in those games.

While Ireland had a good run of form last year, their current performance has been disappointing. On the contrary, everything seems to be going in Australia's favor at the moment. They are in great form, playing in front of their enthusiastic home supporters in what is anticipated to be a sold-out stadium.

Considering these factors, it's reasonable to expect that Australia will dominate the match and comfortably cover the spread against Ireland, setting a positive tone for their World Cup campaign.

The much-anticipated Women's World Cup has finally commenced, providing a promising opportunity for astute bettors. The tournament opens with a match between New Zealand and Norway, where it seems highly likely that Norway will emerge victorious.

Although this Norwegian team might not be as formidable as their previous counterparts, they still possess an edge over New Zealand. Considering New Zealand's recent performances in 2023, where they suffered defeats such as 4-0 and 5-0 against the United States, 3-0 against Nigeria, 2-0 against Argentina, and 5-0 against Portugal, it is evident that they have struggled. In fact, out of the nine matches they have played this year, they have only managed one win and one draw, while losing the remaining seven.

On the other hand, Norway has had a mixed year so far, with one win, two draws, and two losses. However, it's worth noting that they faced stronger opponents, including draws against France and Sweden, both of whom are considered among the top six favorites to win the tournament outright.

Considering the clear difference in quality between the two teams, it appears prudent to back Norway to cover the spread in this opening encounter.

Lillestrom is coming into this match on the back of two consecutive wins, and they will be looking to make it three in a row. They have been solid defensively in recent matches, conceding only 1.13 goals per game in their last 8 league matches. This is a significant improvement from their early season form when they conceded an average of 1.54 goals per game.

In addition, Lillestrom has been scoring goals with more regularity in recent matches. They have scored more than 2 goals in 4 of their last 8 matches, and they have a number of dangerous attacking players who can create chances.

Aalesund are in poor form, having lost their last 2 matches. They have also been struggling to score goals, scoring only 1.13 goals per game in their last 8 league matches. This is a significant drop from their early season form when they scored an average of 1.92 goals per game.

Aalesund have also been poor defensively, conceding 2.38 goals per game in their last 8 league matches. This is a major concern for them, as they will need to improve their form if they want to avoid relegation.

Lillestrom has better recent form and is a more balanced team. Aalesund will need to improve their form if they want to get anything out of this match.

I expect that Lillestrom will win this match by at least 2 goals. Lillestrom has a good chance of scoring early in the match, and they will be confident of keeping a clean sheet against Aalesund's struggling attack. If Lillestrom can get a two-goal lead, it will be very difficult for Aalesund to come back.

Take Lillestrom to cover the spread.

Brann is undoubtedly considered the strong favorites in this match, and to some extent, this perception is justified. However, I don't believe they will be runaway winners in this encounter.

The standings show only a four-point gap between Brann and today's opponents, Stromsgodset, with the latter having a game in hand. In recent head-to-head matchups, Stromsgodset has been more successful, winning three out of the last five games, while Brann managed to secure just one victory.

Brann's home performances this season have been impressive, winning five out of seven games and drawing twice. On four occasions, they won by at least a two-goal margin.

On the other hand, Stromsgodset's away results cannot be overlooked. Out of their seven away trips, they have lost by two or more goals only once, proving that they are not a team that easily gives in.

While Brann might emerge victorious, it is doubtful that they will win by more than a one-goal margin. Based on this analysis, I am inclined to take Stromsgodset plus 1 1/4 in terms of confidence in their performance.

This match primarily revolves around Bodo/Glimt, and it's not to underestimate their opponents, but Haugesund is facing a significant challenge, and the scoreline could be significant.

Bodo/Glimt stands as the top team in Norway, poised to secure their third title in four years, leading the standings by an impressive 11 points.

Haugesund is not a weak team, but they fall into the mid-table category, and their goal difference this season has been poor, sitting at a woeful minus-seven. In contrast, Bodo/Glimt boasts a remarkable plus-23 goal difference.

Bodo/Glimt's dominance has been evident throughout the season, particularly at home, where they have achieved 3-0, 5-1, and 4-0 wins. Out of 14 games played, they have failed to win by a margin of two or more goals only on five occasions.

Head-to-head encounters between the two teams have also been in Bodo/Glimt's favor, with the home side winning four out of the last six matchups by at least a two-goal margin.

Considering all factors, it becomes apparent that this match is predominantly about Bodo/Glimt and their remarkable capabilities. Weighing everything up, the most likely outcome of this game is that the home side will secure a victory by two goals or more.

In an intriguing matchup, St. Louis City is set to face the struggling Inter Miami, and it promises to be an exciting clash.

St. Louis has showcased an impressive attacking prowess this season, averaging 1.82 goals per game. Their ability to find the back of the net has resulted in several high-scoring victories, with 8 of their wins secured by a margin of 2 goals or more.

St. Louis enjoys a significant advantage when playing at home, boasting a fortress-like record. They have scored in 10 out of 11 home matches, making it a daunting challenge for any opposing team to breach their defense.

However, St. Louis has faced some challenges with consistency, as their recent record of only 3 wins from 8 games shows. Nevertheless, this inconsistency pales in comparison to Inter Miami's recent struggles.

Inter Miami is grappling with a prolonged 10-match winless streak in the league, which is a major concern. This lack of victories could impact their confidence and morale, making it difficult for them to turn things around.

Compounding Inter Miami's woes is their suspect defense, conceding at least one goal in each of their last 19 matches. Their struggles are even more evident in away matches, losing 8 out of 10 games on the road.

Given St. Louis's potent scoring ability and Inter Miami's current struggles, the odds favor St. Louis emerging victorious in this encounter. The home advantage is likely to play a crucial role, allowing St. Louis to exploit Miami's defensive frailties and secure a convincing 2-goal margin win.

The form in the Norwegian league is starting to settle down and one thing that has become clear is that Valerenga is in form and Lillestrom is not.

Having lost two of their first three games Valerenga have since bounced back and are now unbeaten in their last six league wins registering four wins and two draws. They have won all four home games this season and three of those by a minium of two goals.

Lillestrom have won just once from their last 14 away games this season and last and in this campaign have two losses and two draws away, they are on a winless run of four games and have just one win from their last seven games in the league and that was a home game.

So, we have one team, Valerenga, on form and formidable at home and on the other hand, we have Lillestrom that cannot buy an away win and are in terrible form.

All things considered, I am backing Valerenga to win

Take Valerenga -1

Final Bundesliga game of the season and this is one of the matches that both teams have something to play for.

Dortmund are two points behind Bayern Munich and will need to win this game and hope Bayern lose at home, which is very unlikely, to claim the title.

Monchengladbach are in a three-way battle for the final Champions League qualification spot, if they drop points today and their rivals pick up points, which is very possible, then they will miss out on qualifying for Europe's elite competition next season.

Both sides have had mixed results recently and it will come down to which team wants it more today.

For me, I believe that it is the home side that will want it more, Dortmund kind of already know they have lost the title barring a miracle and I can see that having an impact as the game progresses.

Monchengladbach know that they have to win as well and unlike Dortmund, have their own destiny in their own hands.

I am backing Monchengladbach to get the win in front of their own fans.

If Roma want to make the top-four this is a game they really must win, however, Genoa still need points to avoid relegation and so it will not be an easy game for the visitors.

Genoa are six points clear of the relegation zone and are probably safe but they cannot take anything for granted and will try to pick up at least a point.

Roma are just one point behind Atalanta in fourth and with Atalanta playing Lazio today, who are also desperate for a top-four spot you can see how valuable a win today will be for Roma.

Genoa are not in good form at all, they have just one win in their last ten games, strangely enough against Juventus and are on a six-game winless streak.

Roma has hit form at the right time collecting three wins and two draws in their last five games and carry momentum into this game.

I expect Roma to get the win today and maintain their Champions League qualification hopes.

Take Roma -0.5

Huge game for Chelsea, they can go third with a win today and give their Champions League hopes a massive boost, however, Watford will not be easy to beat.

Watford can no longer finish seventh and so only have the FA Cup final to look forward to as a route to Europe next season but that does not mean they will not try today, they really will.

Chelsea travelled to Germany Thursday night and so may be a bit tired but they have a fresh and rested Eden Hazard and that is critical.

I do expect Chelsea to win but they are vulnerable in defence and I suspect they will have to score at least twice in this game as I do see Watford scoring.

While I do see Chelsea winning I do not see it being by two clear goals and therfore the best bet for me is to back Watford +1.5

Take Watford +1.5

This is the final regular game of the season in the Championship, Rotherham are already relegated but Middlesbrough can still make the playoffs if Derby County drop points today, which is possible.

That means that Middlesbrough have to win this game, a draw is no good due to goal difference, only three points and Derby not winning will put them into the playoffs.

Rotherham will be more relaxed but they are a poor side, that is why they have been relegated but they do have home advantage and will want to see their season out at home with a win.

Middlesbrough will not care they are the away side, they will be confident they can beat Rotherham and will approach this game with one thing in mind and that is to win.

I fully expect Boro to collect all three points and they will as long as they play to their abilities and do not allow nerves to get the better of them.

Take Middlesbrough -0.75

Tottenham have been struggling recently, they are clearly tired after a long season but they know a win today will give them Champions League football next season and I expect them to lift themselves one last time.

Bournemouth will be no pushovers, they are more relaxed now as they have nothing to play for and will of course be up for playing one of the best teams in England.

Neither team is in great form right now, Bournemouth have won just once in their last six games and Tottenham just once in their last five games.

Tottenham have lost their last five away games on the bounce and Bournemouth have not won in their last five home games.

But all said and done Tottenham do have a massive prize to play for today and providing they have the energy they will win.

Take Tottenham -0.5

West Ham have always been tough opponents for Tottenham and will definitely raise their game today, however, I am confident that Spurs will win and by at least a couple of goals.

They are unbeaten in their new stadium, they have not yet conceded a goal and they know a win today will put them very close to champions league qualification.

Spurs do have a long injury list and have the upcoming Champions League semi-final against Ajax to consider but they will still put out a very strong team today.

West Ham will be more attack minded than Brighton was midweek and that will open the game up for Tottenham, it was hard for them against Brighton because they basically put 11 men behind the ball and defended for the entire game, it is sometimes difficult to break teams down that play like that, that will not be the case today.

I see an open game but do expect Spurs to win and and take a huge step towards confirming their Champions League presence for next season.

Take Tottenham -1.5

Rosenborg have got off to a very slow start to the Norwegian season and find themselves second bottom after three games but rest assured they remain one of the best teams in Norwegian football and are second favourites behind Molde to win the title.

Stromgodset has had a mixed start with one win, one draw and one loss but they are not going to be contenders for the title they are well below Rosenborg in the betting and all things being equalled are a far inferior team.

I fully expect Rosenborg to get into gear today, they are at home and I cannot see anything other than a win for them and for them to kick start their season.

Take Rosenborg -0.75

West Brom still have an outside hope of grabbing an automatic promotion spot to the Premier League, it is unlikely but while ever there is hope they will fight with every breath.

Reading could still be relegated but again, it is unlikely but it does mean that they will be fighting as much as West Brom today for points.

But West Brom have the better recent form with five wins and two losses from their last seven games and even though they are the away side I am backing them to get the win today.

Take West Bron -0.25

A win for Derby County and they could end the day in a play off spot and with so few games to go they simply have no choice but to go all out for the win and I am confident that is what will happen.

QPR are basically safe, they will not be relegated and that will affect how they play, but even if they were in more danger I still would not be able to make a case for them, they are dreadful on the road having lost six and drawn two of their last eight away games.

Derby are far stronger at home and have won their last two home games 6-1 and 4-0 and I cannot see any reason why they will not continue with that sort of form in front of their own fans today.

Take Derby -0.75

This could be the game that deals a massive blow to Sheff Utd automatic promotion hopes.

As things stand right now it is in their hands with three games to go but if Leeds United better Sheff Utd result today they would move into the automatic promotion spot with just two games to go, so, Sheff Utd will go all out for the win.

But, Hull are not a bad home side, they are probably too far behind to get a playoff spot but to them, this game is a sort of a derby, they are both Yorkshire clubs and for Hull they would love to win this game.

It will be a tight game and Sheff Utd are favourites but it would not be a huge surprise if this game ends in a draw and for me, there is more chance of a draw or Hull win than a Sheff Utd win.

Take Hull City +0.5

Arsenal are fresh from knocking Napoli out of the Europa League and will be looking to move into third position in the Premier League with a win over Crystal Palace today.

A draw keeps Arsenal in fourth, whereas a win puts them above Tottenham into third and  means that it is purely in their hands now if they finish top-four and qualify for next seasons Champions League.

Arsenal have been formidable at home but it should be remembered that Palace are the only team to have beaten Man City at their ground in the league this season and so they will not be easy to beat.

A win for Palace makes it almost certain they will not be relegated and so they have their own incentive to put up a good fight today and I expect a good perfromance from them.

Arsenal are clearly favourites but they will have to win by two goals today for this pick to lose and I do not see that happening, I see nerves playing a part and Palace being very tough to break down.

Take Crystal Palace +1.25

Everton have had some very good results at home against the top six and I am backing them to get another one today.

They have recently beaten Chelsea and Arsenal and will be confident they can repeat those feats against an average Man Utd side.

Reality has come home to United since the initial euphoria of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer taking charge and going on a long unbeaten run culminating in the historic defeat of PSG in Paris but since then they have been dumped out of Europe, the FA Cup and lost points in the top-four race.

I am sure this will be an entertaining game but with home advantage and the incentive of finishing in the top seven still within their grasp, I am going for Everton to at the very least not lose this game.

Take Everton PK

Schalke are still in a relegation battle though they are not in serious trouble and Hoffenheim are battling for a place in Europe without an outside chance of making the Champions League.

In better words both teams have something to play for.

Schalke are better than their position and I actually watched them live a couple of weeks ago and they were very unlucky to lose at home to Eintracht Frankfurt and if they reproduce that performance they will get something from this game.

Hoffenheim have hit form at the right time and have registered four wins and one draw from their last five Bundesliga games, but only one of those wins was away and overall their away from has been poor with just two wins from their last seven road games in the league.

I expect Schalke to fight for their lives today and give Hoffenheim a real battle and despite their recent poor form I feel there is more chance of either a home win or draw than there is an away win for Hoffenheim.

Take Schalke -0.5

Huddersfield have already been relegated and there is very little reason to think they will all of a sudden improve because the pressure is off.

Watford were very unlucky to lose to Arsenal last Monday, they were down to ten men and still outplayed them and unlike their opponents today they do have something to play for and that is seventh position and possible entry into the Europa League next season.

Watford will be without Troy Deeney their talisman but they coped just fine when he got sent off on Monday and will do so again.

Huddersfield have home advantage but that has not done them much good all season and I doubt it will today.

Take Watford -0.5

Bournemouth bounced back to form with a massive 5-0 away win over Brighton last week and now that they are back at home I expect them to continue to win.

Fulham have been relegated but they still picked themselves up and beat Everton last week, a very good win for them, however, they remain a very limited side and have a very poor away record this season.

Fulham has lost 15 and drawn two of their 17 away games this season, that alone tells you how awful they have been on the road this season.

Bournemouth have drawn two and lost two of their last four home games but previous to that they only ever lost to the elite clubs at home and beat the teams on their level or below them.

All things considered, I am very confident Bournemouth will beat Fulham today.

Take Bournemouth -0.75

On paper, you would say Arsenal to win but that would mean ignoring their woeful away form this season and I simply cannot do that.

Watford are not a bad home side, a win today and they go seventh, they are in the FA Cup final and enter this game on a high, they have a history of bullying Arsenal and I can see that happening again today.

The Arsenal manager Unai Emery has to rest some players ahead of Thursday's second leg clash with Napoli in the Europa League and so it is very unlikely we will see the strongest possible Arsenal team today and that can only play into the hands of Watford.

Everton showed how weak Arsenal are on the road and I expect that Watford will do the same thing.

Arsenal will not be easy to beat and a draw is a possibility and on balance taking Watford on the spreads is the best bet here.

Take Watford +0.25

An extremely important game for both sides and both teams will be desperate for the win as they battle against relegation from La Liga.

Girona are in the slightly better position four points ahead of Villarreal but it is Villarreal with the better recent form.

Villarreal has lost two of their last three La Liga games however they managed a 4-4 draw with Barcelona in those three games and prior to that sequence they had won two on the bounce, so two losses in their last five league games.

Girona has won once and lost four of their last five league games and have lost five of their last six home games.

Villarreal are also in the Europa League and lost midweek to Valencia and will have their eye on the second leg of that tie on Thursday but becase they lost at home 3-1 that means they are very likely now to concentrate on the league and will field their best team today and not rest any players.

For me, there is more chance of a Villarreal win than a Girona win and a draw will see stakes returned.

Take Villarreal PK

I cannot see anything other than an Eintracht Frankfurt win today with the only real risk is that they put out a weakened team because of their second leg Europa League tie in four days time, but even then, I would still expect them to get the better of a poor Augsburg side.

Frankfurt has been in great form in the league, they have won six in a row and are fighting hard for a Champions League spot and know a win today will put them four points ahead of fifth place Borussia Monchengladbach with just five games to go,whereas dropped points would put them in a vulnerable position.

Augsburg are still in a relegation dog fight, though it is not as severe as it could be, they are currently seven points clear of automatic relegation and four points above the relegation playoff spot and so a win for them would be huge.

But, the form of Frankfurt is simply too good right now, they are at home and they have just as much, if not more incentive to win than their opponents.

Take Frankfurt -1

Huge game for both teams with so much to play for but based on the respective form and performances of both teams this season as well as their respective home and away records I am going with Liverpool to beat Chelsea today and maintain their push for the title.

Chelsea have improved in recent games but they remain vulnerable away from home in the league as four losses in their last six away games prove.

Liverpool, on the other hand, are formidable at home, they have won 14 and drawn two of their 16 home games in the league this season, they have beaten Man Utd, Arsenal and Tottenham already and drawn with Man City, whatever way you look at it, they are irrestiable in front of their own fans.

Also, when you watch Chelsea they never look convincing and have struggled for a lot of their wins, the same cannot be said about Liverpool and I expect them to show their superior class today.

Take Liverpool -0.75

The Derby della Lanterna is the local Genoa derby between Sampdoria and Genoa and even though today Sampdoria are the home side it should be noted that both these teams play in the same stadium.

Sampdoria has been the slightly better team this season but there is not too much between these two and the two last meetings have ended in draws, however, Samprdoria did win four on the bounce prior to those games.

There is no real point analysing home and away form to determine who has the better records because it is not really relevant in this context but Sampdoria are in better form overall right now, they have won four of their last seven Serie A games with the three losses against very decent opposition, whereas Genoa have won just once in their lasts even games and that was a freak result against Juventus of all teams.

All things considered, I am going with Sampdoria to scrape the win based on superior recent form.

Take Samdowia -0.25

Both these teams have something to play for but at different ends of the table and with home advantage I am backing Bilbao to emerge the winners.

Athletico Bilbao are fighting for a place in Europe next season, they are within three points of Valencia who occupy the final European spot and if results go in their favour today, which is possible, then they could find themselves on the same points as Valencia with just six games to go.

Rayo Vallecano are second bottom and in deep trouble but a couple of wins and they could easily lift themselves out of the relegation zone so you can be assured they will put in a very strong effort today.

However, Bilbao have the far better form right now with three wins and two draws in their last six games, whereas Vallecano have eight losses in their last ten La Liga games.

Then there is the respective home and away form, Bilbao have won five and drawn three of their last eight games while Vallecano have lost five away games on the bounce.

Take Bilbao -1

A win today for Norwich City will take them nine points clear of Sheff Utd in third position with just four games left in the Championship, that will put them potentially within one game of automatic promotion to the Premier League, a huge prize and more than enough incentive for them going into this game today.

Wigan are fighting for survival in the Championship and will not just roll over but 20 places and 44 points behind Norwch gives you a clear indication of the difference in class between these two teams.

Norwich have won five of their last six away games, whereas Wigan have not lost in their last seven at home but have drawn four of those games.

In better words, Wigan are doing ok at home and are not easy to knock over but Norwich are quite formidable away and are more than capable of breaking down Wigan today.

All things considered, an away win looks the bet.

Take Norwich -0.75

Both teams have been in relatively good form recently, however, the home form of Torino is far superior to the away form of Cagliari and that is the main difference today for me.

Additionally, Torino are playing for a place in Europe next season, whereas Cagliari do not have the same incentive as they are sure to finish lower mid-table.

Torino have lost just once in their last seven home games, winning the other six while Cagliari have won just once and lost the other six in their lasts seven aways, albeit that solitary win in that sequence was last time they were on the road.

The home form is with Torino, they ahve more incentive and I am backing them to maintain their push for a place in next seasons European tournaments.

Take Torino -0.5

There is a good chance that by the time this game kicks off Leeds United will find themselves outside of the automatic promotion spots in the English Championship and that will give them all the incentive in the world to go out and win.

That said, the same can be said of Sheff Weds to some degree, they would love to damage their local rivals, though if they did that it would let in their even more bitter local enemies Sheff Utd, but Wednesday need the points to maintain their outside hopes of making the playoffs themselves so it will be a passionate closely fought game.

Leeds are very strong at home they have won nine of their last 12 home games, they are in decent form, whereas Sheff Weds are not as strong on the road, they have not lost too much recently relying on a lot of draws when away from home, but they are not prolific winners either and I cannot see them holding out for the entire game against a motivated Leeds United.

All things considered, I am backing Leeds to win and probably by a couple of goals.

Hard to see anything other than a Sheffield United win today.

United are in a three-way battle for automatic promotion to the Premier League and in fact, it is probably only a two horse race for one spot with Leeds United as Norwich look in a great position to finish top.

Home games against teams like Millwall, who are a whopping 37 points and 16 places below them should be a certain three points and while there is a case to be made for Millwall, it is a very small one.

Basically, Millwall are in a relegation dog fight and will give it everything today, they are fighting for Championship survival but with home advantage and the far better form it is hard to United not winning this game.

Take Sheff Utd -0.75

I cannot see anything else than a Werder Bremen win today

Bremen have won three of their last four home games and are unbeaten in front of their own fans in their last seven home games and overall, they are on a 11 game unbeaten run, they are fighting for a place in Europe and are still mathematically in with a chance of making the Champions League.

Freiburg has nothing to play for really, they are 11 points clear of the relegation zone and are probably safe, that does not mean they will not play for points but they hardly have the same incentive that Bremen have.

Additionally, Freiburg's form is poor, they are struggling to buy a win and while they do draw a few games they are not exactly the strongest opponenets for Bremen to contend with.

All things considered, I am going for a convincing home win.

I am confident that Tottenham will win this game and win it with ease.

Huddersfield have been relegated and so they really have nothing to lose, they can play free from pressure to some degree but they were relegated for a reason, they are not very good, in fact, they are rank poor.

They have no motivation, no incentive and nothing to play for, which is not the case with Tottenham.

Tottenham have to win to maintain their top four position, they are under immense pressure from their closest competitors and this game has to be seen as a banker for them, nothing is guaranteed in soccer but this comes as close as possible to a guaranteed three points.

They have taken to their new stadium like a duck to water, their confidence is sky high and even with Harry Kane out I stll have them winning this game by at least two goals, probably three or more.

Take Tottenham -1.75

I am backing Sampdoria to get the home win today against a faltering Roma side and at worse, to at least get a draw.

Sampdoria have won four of their last six Serie A games, they did go through a mini-slump but have since come out of that and last time at home they beat AC Milan 1-0, they do remain a little inconsistent as the loss in their last game away at Torino showed but in all fairness Torino are in good form right now.

Roma has hit a little slump of their own, they have just one win in their last five games and that was at home against Empoli, they have lost their last two away games and could fall behind Sampdoria in the standings with a loss today.

There is not much between these two teams but with home advantage and the better recent form Sampdoria has to be the pick.

I have gone with the spreads and the added insurance of stakes returned in the event of a draw,

Take Sampdoria PK

Valencia are in great form right now, they beat Real Madrid last time out 2-1 and that scoreline flatters Madrid, they have finally started winning instead of drawing and have now won four of their last five La Liga games and are unbeaten in their last 12 league games.

Valencia are now just one point out of the top four and a Champions League qualification spot and know that any dropped points today would be a huge blow.

Rayo Vallecano is facing relegation, they are second bottom in the standings, they have lost eight of their last nine La Liga games and are now on a five-game winless streak at home.

Valencia is in much better form and has huge momentum behind them, Rayo is in terrible shape and unable to buy a win.

All things considered, I am backing Valencia to collect all three points despite being the away side.

Take Valencia -0.5

Birmingham are in woeful form right now, they have lost five games on the bounce and are dropping down the table like a stone in water.

Leeds United are fighting to win an automatic promotion spot to the Premier League and have won six of their last eight Championship games.

The battle for an automatic promotion spot is between three teams and right now, Leeds occupy the second and final automatic spot by two points from Sheff Utd, they simply cannot afford to drop points today, they are in fine form generally and are playing a team whose confidence is shot to pieces.

Birmingham does have home advantage but recently that has done them no good with four losses and a draw from their last six games at home.

All things considered and taking into account the circumstances of this game I am backing Leeds to win.

Take Leeds -0.5

When I first added this game to my shortlist for the day I was a little hesitant, however, the more I analysed the game the more convinced I became that Frankfurt would win.

Frankfurt has won five on the bounce and are unbeaten in their last ten Bundesliga games, this is a team in great form right now.

Compare that with Schalke who have won just once in their last nine Bundesliga games and have won just once at home in their last seven Bundesliga games.

Frankfurt are fighting for a Champions League qualification spot, whereas Schalke are not yet safe from relegation.

Schlake may have home advantage and generally, that counts for something but I am not convinced it will make much difference today.

All things considered, I am backing Frankfurt to win.

Take Frankfurt -0.25

The spread on this one is fairly high but Feyenoord has the quality to cover it.

Heerenveen has actually improved recently but their upturn in fortunes has to be seen in context, they have won four of their last five league games, two at home and two on the road but three of those wins have been against teams lower than them in the standings and for the most part in the relegation dog fight, they have not beaten any team of note.

Feyenoord are a team of note, they may not have had the best season and do suffer the odd surprise defeat, as an example two recent home losses to Willem and inexplicably to Fortuna Sittard but generally speaking they are formidable at home as a 2-1 win over leaders PSV shows and of course the 6-2 thrashing of Ajax and also their last four home wins have all been by at least three goals.

It should also be noted that those two recent home losses have been their only dropped points at home all season.

I fully expect Feyenoord to play their usual game at home today and to win by at least two goals.

Take Feyenoord -1.75

Getting this one in early as I think the spread is too small.

I fully expect Tottenham to win this game and win it comfortably.

They did very well away at Liverpool and were unlucky not to win the actual game and even though they ended up losing thanks to a very late freaky own goal they proved that their recent form has not dampened their confidence.

They are finally in their new Billion dollar stadium, it will be packed and rocking and with Man Utd losing they will be determined to get all three points to cement their top four position and put the pressure back on their local rivals Arsenal.

Palace are very mediocre, they are probably safe from relegation but the 25 points they are behind Tottenham shows you the difference between these two teams.

Home advantage and huge motivation plus the fact they are simply better side make Spurs the definite pick and to win by at least two goals.

Take Tottenham -1.25

Villarreal is in trouble, they are in a serious relegation dogfight, though in recent weeks if you include the Europa League, they have improved but in La Liga, they are very inconsistent and are still losing far too many critical games.

Barcelona are steaming towards another title, they are ten points clear of Atletico Madrid, they enter this game with six La Liga wins on the bounce and over their last 16 La Liga games have won 14 and drawn two, they are in tremendous form.

Villarreal have just three home wins all season long, two of those came from their last three home games, however, one was against Real Vallecano who are second bottom.

All things considered, I cannot see anything other than an away win here, Villarreal will be fighting for survival and they are improving but they are up against the best team in Spain and probably in world club football.

Take Barcelona -1

I am backing Juventus to get back to winning ways on the road after suffering a surprise 2-0 loss to Genoa last time they were away.

Juve are going to win the title yet again, they are 15 points ahead of Napoli in second and are by far the best team in Italy, they do not like losing and did win at home after that Genoa loss but even that win was sluggish and I expect to see a much better performance from them today.

Cagliari is in decent form, they have won four of their last six Serie A games and have won their last three home games 2-1 and one of those wins was against Inter Milan, who may not be on the same level as Juventus but are considered a better team than Cagliari.

Even though their form has improved I do struggle to see Cagliari getting anything from this game, they are a clear 45 points below their opponents and as long as Juve play to form they will win.

Take Juventus -0.75

Watford has lost three of their last six Premier League games and won three, however, those three losses were all away and were against Man Utd, Man City and Liverpool, games they were fully expected to lose, the three wins were two at home and one on the road and so their recent form is not that bad when you consider who they were playing.

Fulham has lost 11 of their last 12 games in the league and on the road, they have lost 14 and drawn two of their last 16 away games this season, literally the worst away record in the Premier League this season.

A loss for Fulham today and they will be relegated, that is how bad they have been this season and no doubt they will fight for their lives today but you have to ask yourself why are Fulham in this position and the reason is simple, they are not good enough.

With home advantage and the incentive of going seventh and being the best team outside the top six, I take Watford to win this game and probably comfortably.

Take Watford -0.75

St Etienne may have lost three of their last four home games but they were against the teams occupying first, second and third in Ligue 1 and outside those losses in front of their own fans they have won nine and drawn two without any losses, the bottom line is that St Etienne have only lost on their own ground against the top three.

Nimes have lost four of their last five away games, and their five away wins this season have been against mediocre teams with the best placed being a win over 11th placed Strasbourg, in better words, when they play a team in the top ten, which St Ettiene is, they tend to lose.

St Etienne won their last game 5-0 away to Caen, whereas Nimes are on a winless three-game streak with two losses and a draw.

The form is with St Ettiene, they have home advantage and are playing a promoted team that has not had any decent results against a team like today's opponent.

Take St Etienne -0.75

Due to travelling, there is just a brief summary of this game today, however, this game has been thoroughly analysed and researched and this pick comes with total confidence.

This is a must-win game for Ajax, they lose and they can basically kiss goodbye to their title hopes, whereas PSV will be almost certain to win the title.

Ajax has won 11 and drawn three from their 13 home games this season and while PSV has a good away record winning nine from their 13 away games they have shown some vulnerabilities in recent weeks on the road needing last-minute goals to secure draws.

All things considered, I am backing Ajax to win and keep their title hopes alive.

Take Ajax -0.75

Due to travelling, there is just a brief summary of this game today, however, this game has been thoroughly analysed and researched and this pick comes with total confidence.

Leicester City has hit form recently winning three of their last four games, including their last two home games, whereas Bournemouth have hit a blip, winning just once in their last seven league games and lost eight of their last nine away games with the solitary win in that run coming in their last away game against bottom club Huddersfield.

Take Leicester -0.5

Due to travelling, there is just a brief summary of this game today, however, this game has been thoroughly analysed and researched and this pick comes with total confidence.

Watford is not a bad team despite some recent heavy losses against Liverpool and Man City which were their only losses in their last six games. United have been on a great run but they have lost their last two games, once in the league and once in the FA Cup and are starting to show signs of vulnerabilities.

For this pick to lose United will have to win by two goals and I do not see that happening.

Take Watford +1.25

Due to travelling, there is just a brief summary of this game today, however, this game has been thoroughly analysed and researched and this pick comes with total confidence.

Leeds will be desperate to bounce back from their loss to Sheff Utd, however, that was only their third loss in the Championship over their last 13 games and two of those losses were against the two sides fighting them for an automatic promotion spot. Millwall have lost four of their last five games with the only win being against Birmingham and are in a fight to avoid relegation.

Take Leeds -1

Due to travelling, there is just a brief summary of this game today, however, this game has been thoroughly analysed and researched and this pick comes with total confidence.

Derby went through a terrible run but have steadied the ship with two draws and a win and have now put that terrible form behind them, they are still very much in the race for a promotion playoff and are playing a very inconsistent Rotherham side third from bottom.

Take Derby -0.75 

This European qualification match looks like it is going to be a very tight affair.

I was tempted to back Under 2.5 goals but there was very little value in that bet and once I analysed this game I came to the conclusion that the best pick would be to back Romania +0.5.

The Romanians have improved over the last couple of years, they have lost just once since May 2017, they did miss out on the 2018 world cup finals but since that disappointment have lost to only the rejuvenated Netherlands.

There was a friendly between these two in Romania that ended up with a Romanian win but in all fairness that result can be ignored, but what cannot be ignored is that over their last ten internationals they have won seven and drawn three and that included six competitive games.

Sweden did well in the World cup finals, reaching the quarterfinals before succumbing to England but since then they have has some very mixed results and it is not too easy to define where they are right now, they are generally a very defensive side and scoring is not their best feature.

With the Romanians improving and the Swedes being a little inconsistent I am of the opinion that there is more of a chance of this game ending in either a Romanian win or the game ending in a draw than I am in a Swedish win.

Take Romania +0.5

I am backing Everton to get something from this game against a stuttering Chelsea.

Chelsea may have won convincingly in the Europa League mid-week but in the Premier League they are consistent at being inconsistent, they struggled to claim a point at home against Wolves last time out requiring a last-minute equaliser, they did dominate that game but their failure to break Wolves down is telling, they have won just three of their last seven league games and have lost three of their last five away games.

Everton are not setting the world on fire, they should be doing much better and their loss to Newcastle last week was devastating after leading 2-0, they are not in good form at all but they showed against Liverpool that when focussed that they can hold their own, they will be looking to bounce back from the bad loss to Newcastle and in front of their home fans against a top-six side I expect them to raise their game.

If Chelsea was in better form in the league and had not had a long journey mid-week I would go for them but they just keep letting themselves down and while they are playing a poor Everton side I am of the belief that with home advantage and a determination to bounce back from last weeks loss that there is more chance of this game being either a draw or home win as opposed to an away win.

Take Everton +0.5

Atalanta has been great for me recently and I see no reason to turn my back on them now.

Atalanta is in good form right now after a blip, they will go fifth today with a win and that puts them in an automatic Europa League spot, and just three points behind a Champions League spot, that gives them huge motivation, they are scoring for fun, they are the second highest scorers in Italy, they are fairly strong at home and while their defence is still a slight worry they are up against the joint lowest scorers in Serie A.

Chievo are rock bottom, they have just ten points this season, though it should be 13 but for a deduction, they struggle to score goals, a huge 36 less than Atalanta, they have conceded a whopping 53 goals and that is not a good sign when you are facing a prolific goalscoring team like Atalanta away, they have collected just two points and scored two goals from their last six away games.

Whatever way you look at this game it screams home win for Atalanta and by at least two goals.

Take Atalanta -1.75

On paper, you would automatically think this is a win for Ajax but that would be a mistake.

A lot has been made of Ajax win over Real Madrid in the Champions League but that is not the performance they put in every week and a quick look at the form table, which covers the last six games, AZ are actually above Ajax in the Dutch league.

Ajax has lost two of their last six away games including a 6-2 loss to Feyenoord, who are just three points ahead of AZ in the league, point is that Ajax are in form but no better than AZ and they are vulnerable on the road.

Of course, Ajax have had some stunning away wins this season, they are a top team but in terms of Dutch football AZ are not that far behind them, they have won their last five home games on the bounce and come into this game in tremendous form in front of their home fans.

The handicap has been set fairly high for AZ and that is good enough for me, I was actually tempted to back them to get the win outright but getting +1 on the handicap is a gift for me.

Take AZ +1

I am very confident that Torino will win this game and enhance their chances of making European football next season.

Torino has now gone seven games unbeaten, they have won five in that sequence including wins over Inter and Atalanta, they are barely conceding goals, just once in their last seven games and they really are on fire right now.

Bologna did win last time out at home to Cagliari but they did lose three on the bounce before that and have just two wins in their last 14 games, they are in bad shape, they are in the relegation zone and have a terrible away record with just one win on the road all season.

Bologna's form has improved recently, that must be said, they have collected seven points from a possible 18, however, when you compare that to the form of Torino, 14 points from a possible 18 then you can see the difference.

On every level, current form, home and away records and actual quality of squad it is difficult to see anything other than a clear home win.

Take Torino -0.5

Norwich City may well be the away team in this Championship clash but I can not see anything but a clear win for them.

Norwich are the league leaders, they are going for one of two automatic promotion spots and while no game is a given, they have to feel that this game is three points in the bag.

Norwich have won five on the bounce and eight n their last ten Championship games, they lead the standings by two points and depending on results today could be as much as seven points ahead of third spot and with just eight games to go after today they will have one foot in the Premier League but that means they must win this game.

Rotherham is a poor side, they are third bottom and facing relegation, though it must be noted that over the last three games they have won two so there is a little turnaround in form but they did lose the other game in that sequence and those wins were over teams closer to the bottom than the top.

If Norwich play to form and they are certainly in form right now they will win and win by at least a couple of goals.

Take Norwich -1

I expect Borussia Monchengladbach to get the win today.

Monchengladbach did go through a blip which has damaged their Champions League qualification ambitions but they did get back to winning ways last time out and now they are back at home I do expect them to make it two wins on a bounce.

Monchengladbach is barely holding onto the fourth spot in the Bundesliga but a win today will see them go third and put a little breathing space between themselves and Eintracht Frankfurt in the fifth position.

Freiburg is fairly safe now, they will not be relegated unless they have a complete meltdown and they certainly will not be making a European qualification spot, they are below mid-table and will most likely remain there for the rest of the season but in all fairness, their form has improved significantly in recent weeks.

That said, Freiburg is a limited side and if Monchengladbach play to their true form today and I believe they will then the home side will emerge the winners.

All things considered, I am going with Monchengladbach to win by at least a couple of goals.

Take Monchengladbach -1

I am backing Arsenal to overcome the two-goal deficit from the first leg in this last 16 Europa League clash.

Everything that could go wrong went wrong for Arsenal in the first leg, they were leading 1-0 until Sokratis sending off and even then the loss was only 3-1 after an 88th-minute goal from Rennes.

We have seen the true Arsenal many times this season, especially at home and most recently against Man Utd and I fully expect that we will see that Arsenal today.

There is a huge gulf between these two teams, the first leg result is giving a false impression that these two teams are closer than what they really are.

I can make no case for Rennes, they are not good enough, they will lose this game and it is just a question of by how many in my opinion and the truth is that I would have still backed Arsenal if the handicap was as high as -2.5.

Take Arsenal -1.75

Today I  will be backing Norwich to continue their fine form and register another win that will take them back to the top of the Championship.

It is now fast approaching the end game in the Championship and the battle for automatic promotion to the Premier League is now basically a three horse race with just two spots available.

A win for Norwich tonight will put them four points above third-placed Sheffield United, not a huge gap but definitely significant with so few games remaining and that alone is all the motivation that Norwich needs.

Hull are still in with an outside chance of making a playoff place but it is now looking unlikely, not only will they have to put together a winning run but hope for a few teams above them to falter, but it is fair to say they still have something to play for.

That said, Hull are a limited side, especially away and their current form on the road is poor, they have lost four on the bounce scoring just once and conceding 13 in that sequence, compare that with Norwich who have won four and drawn once in their last five home games.

All things considered, I am taking Norwich to win and to win by at least two goals.

Take Norwich -1

I am fully expecting a huge reaction from Real Madrid following their humiliation in the Champions League midweek to Ajax.

It is clear that Real are not the same team they were last year but some perspective is required, the loss to Ajax was one of those games that just went wrong for them, they beat Ajax in the Netherlands in the first leg and so it is not as if they became a flop overnight and yes they did lose three games from four before that but two of those games were against Barcelona, they are still third in La Liga and while no longer title contenders, they are certainly better than the likes of Real Valladolid.

Valladolid for their part enter this game with just one win in their last 13 games, they are in a relegation dog fight and have the second worse current form in the league, whereas Real Madrid has the third best form over the last six games.

Real Madrid will show in this game that they are still a top team and I will be very surprised if we do not see a massive response from them and I do expect them to win this game by at least a couple of goals.

Take Real Madrid -1

Chelsea have hit a rich vein of form with four wins and a draw from their last five games in all competitions, their confidence has been restored and with Tottenham losing on Saturday they now have the added motivation of closing in on a top-four spot and depending on the result between Arsenal and Man Utd could even end up in the fourth spot by Sunday evening.

Wolves are in the seventh position, just one behind Chelsea but they are 13 points behind and basically have no chance of European football next season, they are guaranteed Premier League football for another campaign and while they will still be highly motivated, it will not be quite as sharp as Chelsea's.

Wolves are also quite poor on the road, yes they beat Tottenham away but apart from that they really are inconsistent but they are due some credit, their current form is nearly as good as Chelsea's but some context is required, they have played only one top ten side in their last six games and that was against ninth-placed West Ham, whereas Chelsea have played the likes of Tottenham, Man City and Arsenal over the same period.

The bottom line for me is that Chelsea is playing far better than Wolves at the moment, they are on a roll, confidence is huge and so is the motivation and of course, they have home advantage.

All things considered, I see Chelsea winning this by at least a couple of goals.

I am giving Tottenham one more chance today and will be backing them to beat relegation-threatened Southampton.

Southampton was unlucky against Man Utd last week losing 3-2 and they have improved in recent weeks after a poor season, but even that improvement has been patchy and despite being at home today they are paying one of the best teams in the league that appear to have got their mojo back after a little bit of a stumble.

Tottenham was impressive beating Dortmund 1-0 midweek in the Champions League in Germany and that followed a hard-fought draw against Arsenal, which on the face of it was nothing special but that followed a two-game losing sequence which seriously dented the title aspirations and to then come back with a draw against Arsenal and a win away against Dortmund shows their character and that they are now past that momentary blip.

This will not be a walkover for Tottenham, they are playing against a team fighting for their lives who have not given up, as Southampton showed against Man Utd, but if Spurs play to their normal standards they will win this game.

Take Tottenham -0.5

I am backing Crystal Palace to collect all three points against Brighton today.

This game is a case of two teams going in the opposite directions, yes Brighton won last weekend but that was at home against bottom side Huddersfield Town, a win they struggled to get and that was after collecting just a single win in their previous 12 Premier League matches, they really are not a team in form right now.

Palace, on the other hand, are hitting form at the right time, they have lost just once in their last six Premier League games and that was against a rejuvenated Man Utd, racking up three wins and two draws in that period, in fact, they have better recent form than both Tottenham and Liverpool.

Basically, we have a team in good form with home advantage against a team struggling to get points home or away.

All things considered, I am confident Crystal Palace will win this game.

Take Palace -0.5

I cannot see anything other than a win for Sheffield United today and a comfortable win at that.

Sheffield have the third best home record in the Championship, they are on fire right now, a win in this UK lunchtime game will momentarily take them into second in the table just four points behind leaders Norwich City, they are fighting tooth and nail for an automatic promotion spot to the Premier League and enter this game with the second best recent form in the Championship.

Rotherham are a poor side, they are third bottom and have a serious relegation fight on their hands, their form has improved in all fairness, with five draws and a win in their last six Championship games but whenever they play the top sides on the road they lose and lose by at least two goals and today they are up against a very good Championship side in excellent form.

Rotherham will be very defensive today but I just cannot see them holding out against a team at home determined to win and also determined to build up their goal difference which could end up being of critical importance come the end of the season.

All things considered, I simply cannot see anything other than a home win and for Sheffield to win by at least two goals.

Take Sheffield United -1.25

This game represents a fantastic opportunity for Norwich City to extend their lead at the top of the Championship to five points and cement their position in an automatic promotion spot to the Premier League.

Norwich is a hard team to beat at home, they have won three of their last four at home with the other game being a draw against third-placed Sheff Utd and enter this game with the third-best current form figures, in better words, they are in excellent form.

Swansea City has lost their last three away games in the Championship on the bounce, they are not the best travellers and their current overall form is very average losing three of their last six games and winning just twice.

What we have here is a team with huge motivation, home advantage and in excellent form against a team mired in mid-table obscurity, in poor form and poor traveller.

All things considered, I am backing Norwich to get the win.

Take Norwich -0.75

There is a significant difference in class between the Austrian Bundesliga and the Italian Serie A and I expect that to show today with a clear win for Napoli.

There may have been an argument that Napoli would not have taken this competition too seriously after being eliminated from the Champions League but a 5-1 aggregate win over Zurich put that to bed rather quickly and it must be noted that this is a Napoli side that beat Liverpool and twice held PSG in the Champions League this season.

Napoli are second in Serie A and generally speaking are a formidable home side with only Juventus beating them in their last 27 home games in all competitions and in that sequence they won 12 times by at least two goals and 21 wins overall.

Salzburg is not a bad side, they are dominating the Austrian Bundesliga and lead the standings by 11 points after just 20 games but they did lose 4-2 to Lazio last season in this competition in Italy and when they play the top teams they tend to lose, they have beaten the likes of Celtic and even Dortmund last season, so they are capable but losses to the likes of Marseille, Lazio and even Club Brugge give a more realistic gauge of their chances today.

All things considered, I am very confident Napoli will win and by at least two goals.

Take Napoli -1

Chelsea have put their horrendous period behind them, they did lose 4-0 to Bournemouth, 6-0 to Man City and 2-0 to Man Utd at home, but since those results they have shown significant improvement, they have had their confidence restored and there is now a strong belief at Stamford Bridge that they will go on and win this competition.

Chelsea has a great record in the Europa League, especially at home, they have won all four games at home this season in the competition and won three of those by two or more goals, in fact, this season they have won seven and drawn once in their eight Europa League games. They are taking this competition very seriously and will be looking to take a healthy lead to Ukraine for the second leg.

Kyiv is a decent team but definitely not what you would call an elite European team, they have not played any teams this year close to Chelsea's ability and have had the odd bad result against bad teams, today is their first real test against top-class opposition and reality will set in fairly quickly at Stamford Bridge.

All things considered, I fully expect the superior class of Chelsea to show today and expect them to run out clear winners by a minimum of two goals.

Take Chelsea -1.5

Wolves were very disappointing losing 1-0 away to Huddersfield midweek even though it was a last minute winner and will be looking to get back to winning ways against a very poor Cardiff team.

While Wolves were disappointing Cardiff were even worse losing 3-0 to Everton which followed a 5-1 mauling to Watford and in both those games, Cardiff were the home side.

Cardiff have been appalling on the road this season, they may have managed two wins and one draw over their last five away games but they have lost an incredible nine times from 13 away games this season and based on their current form it is hard to see them improving that today.

Wolves are not bad at home, they have won six, drawn three and lost five, which on the face of it is not spectacular but you have to consider that three of the teams they lost to are either on the same points as them or above them in the standings and that they have beaten the likes of Chelsea and held the likes of Man City.

It is very difficult to make a case for Cardiff, you can but it is a stretch, they are facing relegation while Wolves are battling for a European spot, they are awful away while Wolves are tough at home and Cardiff's recent form is just dreadful.

Take Wolves -1

Huddersfield finally won a game beating Wolves last time out with a 90th-minute goal, however, that masks just how poor they are and I see them losing yet again today.

Prior to the win over Wolves, Huddersfield had lost 15 games and drawn just once in all competitions, that is how bad they have been and it must be noted that the win over Wolves was at home, today they are away.

Brighton is in a slump for sure, they are winless over their lasts seven Premier League games and have now been dragged down into the relegation dog fight but they have home advantage today and while their recent home form has been poor they are still a far better home side than what Huddersfield are away.

Brighton have lost just four times at home all season and three of those losses were against Tottenham, Chelsea and Liverpool, in better words when they play the poorer teams in the league and Huddersfield are the actual worse team, they do not lose and invariably win.

Also, the recent poor form of Brighton, especially at home needs context, as an example over their last six home games, they lost to Chelsea, Liverpool and Burnley, but they beat Everton and drew with Arsenal and Watford, point is that the losses were expected for the most part, Burnley aside and their other results were not bad at all.

The bottom line for me is that Brighton at home is simply the better team compared to Huddersfield away and I expect that to show today.

Take Brighton -0.5

Bayer Leverkusen lost last time out but that was away and against league leaders Borussia Dortmund and previous to that they had won four on the bounce and I am backing them to get back to winning ways today against Freiburg.

Freiburg have been playing better recently, they won last time out 5-1 against Augsburg and drew their three games previous to that, in better words, they are on a mini unbeaten run but the fact is that they only managed one win in that run and overall are not what one would describe as formidable opponents.

For starters, Freiburg has just two wins from their 11 away games this season, they are poor travellers, whereas Bayer has won five and lost just once in their last six home games.

The bottom line here is that Bayer has a far better home record than Freiburg have away and on current form, despite last weeks results, Bayer has the far better form.

I was a little hesitant that the spread was above one but on balance I am far more confident in Bayer winning by a couple of goals than I am in Freiburg getting anything from this game or keeping Bayer to just a one-goal margin.

Take Bayer Leverkusen -1.25

The league cup final and I cannot see anything other than a win for Man City.

To some extent we can forget the 6-0 thrashing that City handed out to Chelsea just a few weeks ago, for starters, City were at home and that game was over within 30 minutes, that was a one-off result and will not be repeated again today, however, it did show the huge gulf between these two teams and while I do not see City winning by six goals, I do see them winning by at least two.

Chelsea will be nervous facing City again but at the same time they will welcome it, they will want to put right that huge defeat but the facts are that they are an inferior team, they simply do not have the depth of talent that City have and certainly not the confidence and to some degree, the arrogance.

City is a brilliant team, they will go after Chelsea from word go and I just cannot see the Blues defence keeping the City forward line at bay for the whole 90 minutes.

Chelsea has lost too many games recently, put in too many poor performances for them to be backed with any confidence today, in contrast, City has shown time and time again that they are a match for any team in world football and everything points to a convincing City win today.

Take City -1

I am backing Atletico Madrid to win this game and by at least two clear goals.

I actually opposed Atletico against Juventus in the Champions League because on the evidence of watching them play I felt they had lost something, I could not quite put my finger on it but they were no longer the formidable force they once were, I was wrong, but that had to do with a change in attitude from Atletico and not because of their recent form.

If they play like they did against Juventus they will win this game with ease, they are playing a team fighting for their La Liga lives and there is a reason for that, Villarreal has been poor this season, they have improved for sure, but remain a limited team.

Villarreal is on a five-game unbeaten run in all competitions, their confidence is restored but it is fragile and with Atletico getting back to the form they have been lacking recently I am confident that this will be the game that Villarreal's unbeaten run comes to an end.

Atletico have home advantage, they have to win to keep the pressure on Barcelona at the top and that is exactly what I expect them to do today.

Take Atletico -1

The advantage is clearly with Arsenal today, they are fresh from a good midweek win in Europe and are at home but they have not been playing like world beaters and are a team with flaws, especially in defence where keeping a clean sheet seems to be a difficulty for them

Southampton is having a poor season, they lost their league game at home to Cardiff but prior to that they had gone on a three-game unbeaten run and started to show signs that they can drag themselves out of the relegation zone.

It should also be noted that Arsenal did lose away to Southampton earlier in the season and that was at a time when Arsenal was on a huge unbeaten run and Southampton were really struggling.

Arsenal should win this game but I simply cannot back them on the spread with confidence, they always seem to concede, they have conceded in 22 of their 26 league games this season and while they may win this game I do not see them doing by two clear goals and it would not be a surprise at all if the Gunners do not, in fact, win, Southampton have already proven they can match them this season.

All things considered, I am backing Southampton +1.25

I am backing Newcastle United to get the better of Huddersfield Town in the Premier League today.

Newcastle has improved to some degree, whereas Huddersfield has not and with home advantage against the second worst team on the road in the Premier League Newcastle will be very confident of picking up all three points.

Newcastle has won their last two home games, including a hugely impressive 2-1 win over Man City.

Huddersfield, on the other hand, have lost five of their last six away games, with only a draw at Cardiff in that sequence and over their last 13 Premier League games they have lost 12 and drawn just once, whatever way you look at that, it is horrendous.

Newcastle is slowly rising up the table and Huddersfield are rooted to the bottom with almost no hope of avoiding relegation this season.

Newcastle have the form and home advantage and Huddersfield have almost nothing going for them,

Take Newcastle -0.5

Big game for both teams today in the Championship, Bristol City will be looking to get something from this game to maintain both their playoff position and automatic promotion hopes, Norwich is currently top of the standings and knows a win would be huge for their automatic promotion ambitions.

Norwich did stumble a little ten days ago with an uncharacteristic loss away at Preston but then bounced back with a huge 4-0 away win over Bolton, they are strong at home with seven wins and two draws in their last ten Championship home games.

Bristol City are on a seven game winning run in the Championship, in fact, they have not lost in their last 13 league games going right back to October, they are clearly in excellent form, they have won their last three away games on the bounce and enter this game with huge confidence.

So, we have two teams in excellent form with a load to play for but the reason I am going with Norwich is two-fold.

First, they have home advantage and that is significant and secondly they have the much better head to head record over their opponents, in fact, you have to go back ten years since Bristol got the better of Norwich, though there have been a good few draws.

All things considered, I am backing Norwich to squeeze out the win.

Take Norwich -0.5

Tottenham, despite some high profile injuries, continues to defy pundits and remain in both the Champions League and Premier League title race and are my pick to win this game.

They have the best away record in the league, better than both Man City and Liverpool, they will go within 2 points of City at the top of the standings with a win today and could even welcome back their best player Harry Kane.

Burnley have a half decent home record, however, they have lost at home this season to Man Utd, Chelsea and Liverpool, all top six teams, in better words, when they host a top six team they lose.

Burnley have lost the last two meetings between these two teams at Turf Moor, 3-0 and 2-0 and unless there is a dramatic shift in form it is hard to see how the result will be any different today.

Tottenham keep on winning, yes, they have been scraping wins but that is always the sign of a top quality team, Burnley will be competitive but there is a gulf in quality between these two teams and if Spurs play to form and there is no reason why they will not then it will be an away win.

Take Tottenham -0.75

Dynamo Kyiv did very well to get a draw away at Olympiakos in the first leg and I am backing them to go one better and get the win today.

Kyiv is on a winter break which makes their 2-2 draw in Greece all the more impressive, they have had mixed results recently, both in friendlies and competitive games but then so have Olympiakos and in terms of actual form, there is not much between them.

Because of the away goals, Kyiv has the advantage and Olympiakos will have to go for goal and that means that Kyiv will probably be looking to play counter-attack football today even though they are the home side.

Kyiv will not sit back completely, they will have gained confidence from the first leg but because of the conditions of this game they will want to stay organised and defensive as much as possible but I am of the opinion that because Olympiakos will be forced to attack that will give a lot of opportunities to Kyiv to grab a goal themselves.

The way I see this game unfolding makes backing the home side the most logical bet to have and one that I will be doing.

Take Kyiv -0.25

Interesting Europa League game, the first leg finished 0-0 which gives Genk a slight advantage, however, a single goal from Slavia Praha and Genk will have to score twice.

Both teams top their respective leagues, however, the Belgium League is a bit stronger than the Czech league and despite the maths of an away goal, the advantage is with Genk.

Both teams lost at the weekend, no doubt because they had one eye on this game and weirdly enough, both those defeats were against their nearest rivals in their leagues.

Even looking at the respective home and away form there is little to separate these two sides, Genk has won four of their last five home games in all competitions and Slavia have won three of their last four away games.

This game for me, all comes down to home advantage and the fact that I believe that the Belgium league is stronger than the Czech league and based on that I do see Genk squeezing out a narrow win.

Take Genk -0.5

Bayer Leverkusen drew 0-0 with Krasnador in the first leg of this Europa League tie and I am very confident that they will win this game now they are back at home and win it fairly comfortably.

Even though Bayer Leverkusen was away they absolutely dominated the first game, they had 65% of the possession, they had eight corners to Krasnadors one, they edged shots on goal 4-3 and 10-7 on shots overall.

I expect those sort of stats to be similar again today if not better, Bayer have home advantage and that is significant in Germany, their form has improved massively in recent weeks after a poor start to the season and they will be much fitter than their rivals, who are coming off a mid-season winter break.

Krasnador had their opportunity to take a lead into this game and failed and now that they are playing away, against a team from a far stronger league who outplayed them in the first game, I cannot see anything other than a loss for the Russian side.

I expect Leverkusen to take an early lead which will force the Russian side to attack and that will leave them vulnerable at the back and I see Bayer winning this game by 2-3 goals.

Take Bayer Leverkusen -1.25

Fenerbahce carries a 1-0 lead from the first leg against Zenit in this Europa League last 32 clash.

The Turkish side has the advantage of being in the middle of their season while Zenit has been on a two-month winter break, but there are good reasons to back the Russian side to get the win today.

For starters, Fenerbahce is having a poor season, they have turned their form around a little recently but they remain in 15th place (out of 18) in the Turkish league and could only muster a home draw against Konyaspor at the weekend and are on a four-game winless run away from home in all competitions.

Zenit came a little unstuck before the winter break but remain top of the Russian League and have put a good run together in friendly games, they will have come on a lot following the game against Fenerbahce and will be fitter and more match ready for it.

Fenerbahce just need a draw or even to lose by a single goal as long as they get an away goal and that will determine how they play this game, which will initially be defensive minded, Zenit will have no choice but to go for the win and that will be how they approach this match and a lot will depend on whether there is an early goal or not.

All things considered, I am of the opinion that Zenit has more going for them and will get the win today, whether they qualify is another matter.

Take Zenit -0.5

Two massive teams playing in the biggest club competition in the world, what more could one ask for.

I am backing Juventus not to lose this game tonight even though they are the away side and that is simply because they continue to play at a very high level, whereas Atletico has been poor recently, even when winning.

I watched Atletico away at Rayo Vallecano and I thought they were poor despite winning 1-0, I saw them against Real Madrid at home and they were woeful and deserved to lose and that was against a Real Madrid side that is as poor as it has been in years.

Juventus away in Serie A have been absolutely dominant winning ten, drawing one and losing none, they did lose a dead rubber in the Champions League away to Young Boys of Switzerland but that game was of no importance and they also lost badly away to Atalanta in the Italian Cup, but apart from that they have been imperious all season long.

Atletico on their day can be devastating, they remain a top quality side but not right now, they are not playing anywhere near their best and if there is one team you need to be at your best for it is Juventus, or you will lose.

I was tempted to back Juventus outright but have taken the safety-first approach of backing them on the spread so that in the event of a draw stakes are returned.

Take Juventus PK

A home win is very important at this stage of the Europa League and that is what Sevilla will be going for, by the same criteria Lazio know that they will need to keep the scoreline down and if possible grab an away goal and that is what will determine the mentality of these teams today.

Sevilla has improved at home, they recently beat Barcelona 2-0, held Atletico Madrid to a draw and beaten Real Madrid 3-0, they have won seven of their last nine home league games and drawn the other two, they are a team in form on their home ground.

Lazio will be competitive, they are probably about the same level as Sevilla but are very hit and miss on the road in their league, they have won three, lost four and drawn two in their last nine away league games and come into this game in very inconsistent form when travelling.

Considering the home form of Sevilla and the quality of teams they have beaten recently I am backing them to end this game as the winners.

Take Sevilla -0.75

Third-bottom welcomes third top in La Liga and for a variety of reasons I am backing Atletico Madrid to collect all three points and get their stuttering season back on track.

Atletico has lost their last two games, they are now seven points behind league leaders Barcelona and have dropped one point behind bitter rivals Real Madrid, they will be desperate to get back to winning ways and this game offers them a great opportunity to do just that.

Atletico has won seven and drawn two of the last nine meetings between these two teams and know that they must make that eight wins from ten if they are to have any hopes of maintaining their slim title hopes.

Rayo Vallecano has also lost their last two games and will approach this game with a different mindset to Atletico, they will be very defensive, they will be happy with a point even though they are the home side, they may well be in the relegation zone but there are at least seven teams above them that are in this relegation dog fight and a point against a top three team is priceless.

Atletico will have too much for Rayo today and I am confident that they will not just win this game but win it by at least two goals.

Take Atletico -1

Clash of two top teams in the Premier League today but the truth is that there is a big gulf between Chelsea and Man City and I am taking City to win this game and by at least two goals.

This season at home Man City have beaten Arsenal and Man Utd (two top six teams) by two goals and while they beat Liverpool by just the one goal it must be noted that Liverpool are the league leaders.

Chelsea has lost away to Arsenal and Tottenham (two top six teams) by two goals and enter this game on the back of two away losses that has seen them concede six and score none and that includes a humiliating 4-0 loss to Bournemouth.

The point is that when Chelsea play a top six team away they lose and when Man City play a top-six team at home they win and in both cases, it is usually a two-goal difference.

City is pushing for the league title and a win today will see them go top, albeit having played one game more than Liverpool, whereas Chelsea is struggling to push for a top-four spot, though any positive result today will see them go fourth.

City are simply the better team, they have home advantage and while Chelsea are an obvious threat their results this season have shown that when it matters they are found wanting.

Take Man City -1.25

Frosinone are heading for relegation, they did very well to beat Bologna last week 4-0 but that was really a bit of a freak result and that was only their second win in their last 14 Serie A games, they are a poor team and today they are playing a team in great home form.

Sampdoria have won their last four Serie A home games on the bounce scoring 12 goals and conceding just the once, they have won all those games by a minimum of two goals and their only defeats, home or away, in their last ten league games have been against the top two sides in Serie A, Juventus and Napoli.

In terms of current form, Sampdoria has the fifth-best record in Italy with 10 points from a possible 18 over their last six games, compare that with Frosinone who has the 15th best record with just five points from a possible 18.

Whatever way I look at this I cannot see anything but a Sampdoria win and the only question for me was how many they would win by and taking on board their current home form I am confident they will beat the team second bottom by at least two goals.

Take Sampdoria -1

Tottenham is currently without two of their top players in Harry Kane and Dele Alli but that has not stopped them from winning even if they have had to leave it late to secure the victories.

Tottenham have won nine of their last 11 Premier League games and will get within two points of the second spot, well, until Manchester City face off against Chelsea later in the day.

Confidence at Spurs remains intact despite some frustration from the fans and another win today will keep them in the title race, albeit as outsiders.

Leicester City have been playing well but four losses in their last six games have dented their confidence, they did very well to draw away to Liverpool and were unfortunate not to get anything from the loss to Man Utd but they do keep coming up short, especially against the top teams.

Tottenham have home advantage if you can call it home advantage at Wembley Stadium and they will dominate this game as they do in almost every game they play, if they can finish better than they have been doing recently they could easily win this game by two or three goals.

I am confident that Tottenham will win and maintain their push for the title.

Take Tottenham -0.75 

I am backing Atletico Madrid to get the win with the added security of stakes being returned in the event of a draw.

Real Madrid are not the same team they have been in recent seasons, they are really struggling this season by their own high standards, their form has improved in recent weeks in the league and they now have four wins on the bounce under their belt but they remain vulnerable and remain eight points behind league leaders Barcelona and two behind today's opponents.

Atletico lost very surprisingly last week away at Betis but they have won eight of their last nine home games with one draw and that was against Barcelona, they have lost just once at home in their last 32 La Liga games and will be facing a Real Madrid side today that they know is not the strongest one they have faced in a long time.

Real may well be on a good run but even in those recent wins they have struggled to get some of those wins with goals coming in the last 10-15 minutes, they have also won nicely, there is no denying that but you have to look at the opposition.

In my opinion, there is far more chance of this game ending in either a win for Atletico Madrid or ending in a draw than there is of Real Madrid winning and my bet today reflects that.

Take Atletico Madrid PK

I cannot oppose Arsenal today, yes, their recent form on the road has been poor but today they are playing the worse team in the Premier League, a team that has just one win and 10 losses at home from their 13 home games this season and if they cannot collect all three points against Huddersfield today then they really can give up any hope of finishing top four.

Arsenal have shown their quality this season, they have beaten the likes of Tottenham and Chelsea, yes they were both at home but regardless, it shows that if they are in the mood, if their manager sends them out with the right team and tactics they are a top team, their confidence is still intact, they will know that their away record has to improve and this game gives them every opportunity to do that.

It is very difficult to make a case for Huddersfield, they have one draw and 12 losses from their last 13 Premier League games and if you are desperate you could point to the 1-0 loss away at Arsenal as proof that they if they can lose by just one goal away to the Gunners that there is every chance they can get a better result at home, I just do not see that, especially when you consider that Arsenal had much more possession in that game, more shots on goal and should really have won by two or three.

All things considered, I expect Arsenal to get the win today, they are a far better team and as long as they approach this game fully focussed they should win by at least two goals.

Take Arsenal -1

Borrusia Monchengladbach are second in the Bundesliga and deservedly so, they are formidable at home, they have won all nine games in front of their fans in the league scoring 25 goals and conceding just three and have won their last seven home games by more than two goals, whatever way you look at that, it is impressive.

Hertha Berlin are a decent mid-table side, they have a mixed away record and can look at a 2-2 away draw at league leaders Dortmund for comfort and in their last five away games have had two wins but they were against the bottom two and the truth is that they really are up against it today against a team that takes no prisoners on their own ground.

This is not a game that Monchengladbach can afford to drop points in if they are to retain any hope of catching Dortmund at the top, also, they may be comfortable in a champions league spot right now but a couple of bad results and that could change, they have the incentive to win this game and a perfect home record to protect.

Hertha have a fighting chance of course, but the odds are stacked against them, they have just one win in their last six league games and are out of form right now.

All things considered, I am backing Monchengladbach to win this game fairly comfortably.

Take Monchengladbach -1

Dortmund is the best team in Germany right now, they lead the Bundesliga by seven points, they are unbeaten at home winning nine and drawing just once and they have been beating all-comers rather comfortably.

Hoffenheim are actually quite good on the road in the Bundesliga, they have won four and drawn three of their last seven away games, quite impressive, but when they are away at the better teams, Bayern Munich as an example, they lose, they are a full 20 points behind Dortmund in the standings and will enter this game very defensively minded.

That is how this game will unfold, I fully expect Dortmund to dominate and the big question is, can Hoffenheim hold out for the entire 90 minutes against the highest scorers in Germany, I think not, Dortmund nearly always score at home, the last time they did not was 13 months ago and only once all season have they failed to score at least once.

Of course, if Dortmund score then Hoffenheim can always score as well, but the point I am making is that Dortmund will be on the attack all game, that Hoffenheim will not hold out and that there is far more chance of Dortmund scoring two or three goals than Hoffenheim scoring just once.

This game for me will be attack against defence and with that in mind, I am backing Dortmund to get the win.

Take Dortmund -0.75

This could actually be a fairly tight game but I am confident that Leipzig will emerge the winners today.

There are just five points between these two teams today but Leipzig have the huge advantage of being at home, they are very strong in front of their home fans and have lost just once this season in front of their fans and that was last time out against league leaders Dortmund 1-0, prior to that loss they have won seven and drawn just twice when in their home stadium.

Frankfurt is not the strongest away side, they enter this game with four away wins this season but generally those wins have been against poor teams, they struggle against top opposition on the road and if you go back over a couple of seasons their away record is awful, they have just two wins in their last eight Bundesliga games and right now, they are not in the best form, in fact, over their last six games they have collected just six points from a possible 18, whereas Leipzig has collected 12 points over the same period and those six points lost were against Bayern Munich and Dortmund.

All things considered, I believe that Leipzig will have too much for Frankfurt today and will win.

Take Leipzig -0.5