Colombian attacking midfielder, James Rodriguez, is likely to leave Real Madrid this summer after sitting on the bench for most of last season. His relationship with manager and ex-Real Madrid legend, Zinedine Zidane, has turned sour and is a big reason for his likely departure; the latest incident being an awkward viral video of Rodriguez not acknowledging Zidane amongst their recent Champions League victory celebrations.

Rodriguez signed for Real Madrid in the summer of 2014 after an astounding World Cup campaign with Columbia, stealing the spotlight with fantastic creativity and flair as well as grabbing goal of the tournament. Rodriguez is a hot item on the transfer market, with many big clubs linked with the Colombian. Here are some of the odds SkyBet are offering on the 25-year-old’s future come September 3rd:

Chelsea- 3/1

Antonio Conte will be looking to strengthen his already impeccable squad list with players of Rodriguez’ calibre. Whether James is top of his list is questionable- with recent rumours suggesting Chelsea are not willing to meet the £70 million price tag. But rumours are just that, rumours. Rodriguez could be a possible target if Belgian winger, Eden Hazard, was to leave Stamford Bridge with Rodriguez’ club, Real Madrid, apparently showing interest in Hazard. Chelsea fans would love to see Rodriguez join their squad, but plenty of other big clubs are in pursuit of the Colombian.

Inter Milan- 7/2

Inter Milan recently joined the extensive list of clubs hunting down Rodriguez. A move to the Italian league may not be in the best interest of the 25-year-old, who has attracted attention from larger, more competitive clubs and leagues. There’s no doubt he’d fit in at Milan, playing with Mauro Icardi, Ivan Perisic and Eder could conjure up a very potent attack for Inter however Rodriguez is a world-class player. Do world-class players still transfer to a club like Inter Milan? They used to but not anymore.

Manchester United- 7/2

The club that has been stealing the James Rodriguez headlines is Manchester United. Jose Mourinho isn’t a shy figure when it comes to transfers and will surely flex his financial muscle yet again this summer. With Zlatan Ibrahimovic and possibly Wayne Rooney out the door this window, a creative, young, vibrant attacker like James Rodriguez would fit in like a glove. A lot of fans are seeing Old Trafford as the most likely destination for the Colombian this summer.

SkyBet are also offering odds for Rodriguez to move to:

PSG- 4/1

To Stay at Real Madrid- 7/1

Bayern Munich- 12/1

AC Milan- 16/1

Arsenal- 18/1

Liverpool- 20/1

Any Chinese Club- 25/1

Manchester City- 33/1

Dead-ball specialist, Gylfi Sigurdsson, is amidst plenty of rumours suggesting he will leave Premier League club, Swansea City. The Icelandic is currently partaking his second spell in South Wales having spent a season on loan from 1899 Hoffenheim in 2012. The 27-year-old caught the eye of a dazzling aray of clubs however, Tottenham Hotspur got his signature. In 2014, Sigurdsson left Spurs to return to Swansea and has propelled his status for club and country ever since.

In the 2016/17 Premier League campaign, Gylfi Sigurdsson went from strength to strength and was the main catalyst in Swansea’s impressive survival. Sigurdsson ended the season with nine goals and 13 assists in the League, some impressive stats that have turned a lot of heads. He’s arguably the best player in the league from a dead-ball scenario, a trait that has only boosted his value both on and off the pitch. Swansea City will have a tough time keeping hold of the Icelandic playmaker for another season.

Here are some odd the odds SkyBet are offering on Sigurdsson’s future come September 3rd:

Everton- 4/6

It isn’t the first transfer window that Everton have pursued Gylfi Sigurdsson. Most transfer windows they are sniffing around his feet, and now with their almost imminent departures of Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku, ‘The Toffees’ are in desperate need of probable replacements. Sigurdsson’s ability to create opportunities from nothing and his constant threat over a free-kick or corner is a desirable trait to a club like Everton; who have pacey wingers who profit from through-balls and physical, tall players inside the box. This would be a good move for the Icelandic playmaker, however some believe he can play for a better side than Everton.

To Stay at Swansea City- 11/4

Keeping Gylfi Sigurdsson at Swansea City is priority number one for manager, Paul Clement. His sheer work-rate and quality on the ball has been vital to Swansea’s survival in the Premier League and the fans adore the player. Sigurdsson feels at home in South Wales however nobody could blame him if a bigger club came knocking for him. The general consensus is that he is better than Swansea City, but whether he decides to stay and help Swansea reach a higher standard and league finish is only for him to know. This would be a huge boost for the club and fans.

Leicester City- 4/1

The 2015/16 Premier League champions would love a player of Gylfi Sigurdsson’s ability amongst their ranks. Leicester City manager, Craig Shakespeare, is expected to have a busy window, looking for an assortment of fresh legs to spice up the squad. Leicester fans have made their feeling known on Sigurdsson, expressing their desire to attain the midfielder, however it is questionable whether Leicester City is enough of a step up. ‘The Foxes’ odds have shortened massively in the past week, could the bookies know something we don’t?

SkyBet are also offering odds for Sigurdsson to move to:

Tottenham- 14/1

Southampton-16/1

West Ham- 18/1

Liverpool- 20/1

Newcastle- 22/1

Chelsea- 33/1

English goalkeeper, Joe Hart, faces a summer of uncertainty regarding his future. The Manchester City keeper has arrived back after a season on loan at Torino, in the Italian Serie A. Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, hasn’t been shy when admitting that Hart isn’t apart of his plans at Manchester City and explained his ‘lack of ability with the ball at his feet’ was a big factor. Still regarded as England’s number one despite fierce competition, Hart will now have to see how Manchester City will act upon his future.

After his Italian endeavour, it’s clear that the Englishman still hasn’t recovered from his nightmare at the 2016 European Championships and desperately needs a fresh start this summer. Here are some of the odds that SkyBet are offering on Joe Hart’s future as of September 3rd 2017:

West Ham- 6/4

After a rocky season for West Ham and Slaven Bilic, stability is required for the following season at West Ham. Following fans disrupt regarding the new stadium and the Dimitri Payet saga, a signing like Joe Hart would definitely be a step in the right direction, for all involved. Hart would profit hugely from this potential move; the new setting and competing against Premier League team’s weekly is key for Hart on his road back to the top. This would be a clever transfer for Hart, but is it realistic?

Chelsea- 9/2

The Premier League champions have had a terrific season and are now setting up for an even bigger one after regaining Champions League football after a season without. Back-up goalkeeper, Asmir Begovic has waved Stamford Bridge goodbye and has left a space that Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, will need to fill. Joe Hart will be attracted to a big club like Chelsea, but would probably riding the bench all season turn him off? Thibaut Courtios had an incredible season so it’s unlikely Hart would replace him as first choice goalkeeper.

Liverpool- 9/2

Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, is recruiting for a huge upcoming season for ‘The Reds’ who will be playing in the Champions League. Current first choice goalkeeper, Simon Mignolet, divides opinion amongst Liverpool fans hence why Hart has been linked to Anfield. He can create moments of magic but also makes some howlers. Klopp seems to be happy with his goalkeeping options but must be slightly tempted by an available Joe Hart.

SkyBet are also offering odds on Hart to move to:

To Stay at Manchester City- 6/1

Manchester United- 9/1

Everton- 16/1

Crystal Palace- 20/1

Leicester City- 20/1

Roma- 20/1

Torino- 20/1

Horse Racing Preview

Here is our horse racing preview for Wednesday 14th June 2017 across UK and Ireland Horse Racing today, unit stakes advised upon each selection.

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 14th June 2017 – Yarmouth 2.40pm -Haven Seashore Holiday Park Handicap

Zubaidah – 5/2 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 14th June 2017 – Yarmouth 3.10pm – Seadell Shops & Holiday Chalets Hemsby Handicap

Beyond Recall – 13/2 – 1pt stake (EW)

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 14th June 2017 – Yarmouth 3.40pm – Injured Jockeys Fund Handicap

Robbie Roo Roo – 11/2 – 1pt stake (EW)

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 14th June 2017 -Worcester 4.50pm -Allelys General Haulage Claiming Hurdle

Saffron Wells – 7/4 – 2pt stake

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Today’s horse racing preview has four selections which come from Haydock Park with a Nap on the cards. Two nice priced winners yesterday at 4/1 and 11/2 and it was good to see Ms Gillard finally win at the 16th attempt.

 

15.00 Haydock  – Watch Racing UK In HD Handicap (0-90) (7.9f)

Michael Bells yard are having a good spell at present and their representative here is Fire Brigade. His run two runs back when beating Trading Punches has not really had a form boost with the runner up being significantly beaten at Sandown, but I am going to take that on board as the runner up was taking a large step up in trip.

The run in the Silver Bowl over 8.1f here at Haydock eighteen days ago would have to put him in with a very live claim of producing his third career success this afternoon under the eye-catching booking of William Buick. His present mark of 80 is there to be seriously exploited.

Intimate Art is another that is representing a yard that are gradually starting to hit a little form of late for Andrew Balding. Sadly, no Oisin Murphy this afternoon and David Probert reclaims the ride.

Being just denied on the all-weather in a 0-100 rated handicap speaks solid volumes, still looking for his first turf win, but not that exposed so will improve.

Fire Brigade : 2pt win @ 4/1 (BOG)

15.30 Haydock – Lowtown Maiden Stakes (7.9f)

William Haggas’s entry here was pulled last weekend from a very good maiden, Addeybb is having his second run and I am hoping that he has found a weak enough race to justify his Newbury run last month, with the third Top Mission and the fifth Rigoletto both winning recently the form line and experience needs to be put to good use.

But he’s not going to have it all his own way, with Godolphin having a strong hand here and both at the top end of the market it’s going to go on pedigree for me here. Now even though I do like Addeybb who will progress, it’s the Godolphin entry Naaeebb that stands out in this.

The son of Lonhro who’s progeny’s over this trip first time out are excelling and through Dubai Millennium he looks the best of the two runners that should go close.

Dane O’Neil rode a winner yesterday for trainer Henry Spiller at Salisbury and you would have thought is number one over Josephine Gordon.

Mutaraaby is the son of Tamayuz, three runs under his belt which has seen him contend behind recent winner Zenon and a good second to Oasis Charm, even though he will win races, I just feel his very vulnerable to his stablemate this afternoon.

Naaeebb : 2pt win @ 13/8 (BOG) 

16.00 Haydock – Racing UK HD Handicap (0-85) (6.9f)

I was quiet taken in the manner that Merlin won for Michael Bell at Nottingham last month. The maiden was not that strong, but he looked above average in the way he drew clear inside the closing stages.

But I think their punching above their weight here putting him into a 0-85 on handicap debut considering the fourth and fifth have been easily beaten in 0-65 categories.

Andrew Balding’s Rely On Me has already run well in a 0-85 when just denied at Leicester two weeks ago. The third and fourth from that race were subsequent winners and I think he is the one to beat.

Best of the rest, Fahey’s versatile Vaulted will be thereabouts if coming on from his second at Musselburgh in a 0-70 affair, will have to improve but most do under this trainer.

Rely On Me : 3pt win (NAP) @ 5/2 (BOG)

17.00 Haydock – Tyldeseley Maiden Stakes (11.6f)

Off the back of a good second to Charlie Appleby’s Janszoom at Lingfield last month and with the fourth Perfect in Pink coming out and franking that form, UAE King surely should be going one better this afternoon back at the same trip.

The fact that Roger Varian has not dropped the Frankel off spring back to 9f speaks volumes that he’s likely to get further than this. He has a Royal Ascot entry in the Queen Vase, so a solid run here is very much expected.

Likely favourite is to be Charlie Appleby’s Festival of Ages, very nicely bred and with no pressure as yet of future entries, is a learning curve.

UAE King : 2pt win @ 15/8 (NB) (BOG)

 

One to possibly note is Noble Manners today, looks exposed after just three runs, but Fran Norton on board who I rate highly, seems to know how to get horse back on track or to win (14.30 Haydock)

Also Mahler’s Star has run well enough to get the nod this afternoon in the 14.50 Worcester.

 

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Friendly, Stade de France, France 8pm

France vs England – Match Preview – France take on England at Stade de France in a friendly this evening. Both Nations were in World Cup Qualifying action last week with neither side winning.

France went to Sweden and were undone by a last minute blunder by French goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris and lost the game 2-1.

England went to Scotland and though going a goal ahead, were lucky to end the game in a draw, after two stunning free kicks from Scotsman Leigh Griffiths.

Tonight’s game will be full of changes and new tactics and both sides have fully fit squads to choose from.

Kylian Mbappe Lottin looks set for his 2nd International cap against England Photo Credit: skysports.com

Team News

France manager Didier Deschamps may make a few changes to shake up the inconsistent form shown by his team as he stated “No one has guarantees”. Monaco’s wonderkid, Kylian Mbappe Lottin looks set to make his 2nd international appearance and could start alongside Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud, who scored a cracker against Sweden. The likes of Paul Pogba and Antoine Griezmann are sure to make an appearance.

Harry Kane will captain England against France Photo Credit: skysports.com

England will be without goalkeeper Joe Hart as Gareth Southgate revealed he will not be taking part. Many believe Hart was to blame for both set piece goals against Scotland. However, the England manager has stated that Hart still remains his no.1 but there will be competition for the place. Burnley’s Tom Heaton and Stoke’s Jack Butland will play one half each this evening.

Ben Gibson and Kieran Trippier will be hoping for debuts in England’s defence and Harry Kane looks set to keep his place upfront with the captains armband on once again.

Summary

France are odds on to win this tie, especially being on home turf. England could muster up a win if more energetic but do have one day less rest going into the game.

With debuts wanting to show their worth to the squad and with the likes of Harry Kane and Mbappe Lottin on the field, it seems likely that we could be in for an exciting game, even if it is a friendly.

 

Suggested Tips:

 

The status of a Legend doesn’t get thrown around too often in the Premier League, which is just who Wayne Rooney is. Legends are the upper echelon of Premier League greats, the players who left us on the edge of our seats, providing first class footballing entertainment every weekend.

From when he first came onto our television screens, it was clear he was special. Wayne Rooney had an eye for goal unlike no other; his tenacious, bulldog-esc mannerisms made him feared by many defences across the globe. Having joined Manchester United back in 2004, 183 club goals later and it appears Wayne Rooney could be on his way out of Old Trafford. The 31-year-old has been gradually pushed out of the starting eleven and has failed to impress too often when given his chance this season. All good things must come to an end and it seems this heroic legacy could be coming to an end.

With plenty of rumours surrounding the Englishman’s future, here are some of the odds SkyBet are offering on Rooney’s future come September 3rd.

Any Chinese Club- 8/11

The Chinese Super League is becoming a mouth-watering prospect for many football players due to its astronomical wealth. The weekly wages for some of Europe’s average players who moved to China are gobsmacking, and could be a very tempting option for Rooney. Having created a longstanding legacy at one of the World’s largest clubs, Rooney has achieved what many professionals dream of. So, no one could blame him for moving where the money is and collecting a few huge pay checks before hanging up his boots. It would be a shame to see a player still with so much talent fly over to China, as many still believe he could survive in the Premier League.

To stay at Manchester United- 7/2

To remain a Manchester United player is what every ‘Red Devils’ fan would love to see. However, his frustrations in his lack of game time has led to the transfer saga he and the club now find themselves in. With Manchester United and Jose Mourinho looking to once again dominate European football, its questionable whether a 31-year-old, Wayne Rooney, is a valuable enough asset to keep hold of. It would be a wonderful thing to witness Rooney end his career at the club he has seen so much glory at. So, it’s tough to see if he has the stomach to leave the club if he is told he won’t be played as much as he’d like.

Everton- 5/1

Going back to where it all started. A very young Wayne Rooney began his illustrious career at Goodison Park and is surely tempted in a return to his childhood club. The dynamic of the Everton side would really find value in Rooney’s ability, with the almost definite departure of Ross Barkley being another factor that would attract Rooney, for game time. Also, young attacking players such as Tom Davies can only profit off training every day with a legend like Rooney. This would be a good move for the Englishman if he wants to continue competing at a high level.

SkyBet are also offering odds for Rooney to move to:

Any MLS Club- 8/1

Crystal Palace- 28/1

Stoke- 8/1

Celtic- 25/1

Newcastle- 33/1

Dutch centre-back, Virgil van Dijk, is being heavily rumoured with a transfer away from his current club, Southampton. The 25-year-old has turned a lot of heads during his time at Southampton, having showcased great leadership and stability at the back whilst also being a credit to Southampton’s attack, popping up with some crucial goals.

Injury ended his 2016/17 campaign early back in January and the defender has been amidst transfer rumours ever since. With interest now hotting up in van Dijk, Southampton will have a mission on their hands to keep a hold of him. Will he stay or will he go? Here are some of the odds SkyBet are offering on van Dijk’s future come September 3rd:

Liverpool – Evens

Jurgen Klopp hasn’t been shy in admitting he needs defensive reinforcements this summer. Having qualified for the Champions League next season, Liverpool need a new centre back now more than ever. A young, abrasive, fearless leader would be perfect for ‘The Red’s’ and Virgil van Dijk fits the bill. Having expressed his own interest in a move to Anfield, it’s no surprise that Liverpool are favourites to snap up the centre-back. Though Liverpool have recently come out and stated they do not wish to move for the player due to Southampton believing the Reds had earlier tapped the player up.

Manchester City- 11/2

Van Dijk would be accepted by all Manchester City fans if he were to sign for ‘The Citizens’. Pep Guardiola didn’t have his dream first season at the Etihad but was able to attain Champions League football for next season. Manchester City’s defence took a hammering from pundits during the 2016/17 season, conceding too many easy goals through sloppy play. The general consensus is a player of van Dijk’s calibre and standard would be a fantastic addition to their defence. He could strike up a youthful and exciting partnership with John Stones, a sight all City fans would love to see come September 3rd 2017.

To stay at Southampton- 2/1

There is no doubting that van Dijk is Southampton’s most valuable asset. His value is through the roof and if sold, could bring the club an awful lot of money to then spend on other young talents. However, Southampton have remained firm in insisting that the centre-back is worth £70 million, according to The Daily Mail. The Dutchman has clearly been tempted by Champions League clubs interest, however hasn’t insisted his future is not with ‘The Saints’. It would be a huge boost to Southampton if he were to stay, as they will look to improve on their previous efforts in which van Dijk was side-lined for half of the season.

SkyBet are also offering odds for van Dijk to move to:

Chelsea – 8/1

Arsenal – 12/1

Everton – 20/1

Manchester United – 20/1

Horse Racing Preview

Here is our horse racing preview for Tuesday 13th June 2017 across UK and Ireland Horse Racing today, unit stakes advised upon each selection.

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 13th June 2017 – Salisbury 3pm -Bathwick Tyres Maiden Stakes

La Rav – 10/3 – 1pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 13th June 2017 – Salisbury 3.30pm – Sharp’s Doom Bar Handicap

Secret Agent – 10/3 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 13th June 2017 – Lingfield 6.50pm – Happy 30th Birthday Siobhan Barden Fillies’ Handicap

All My Love – 13/8 – 3pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 13th June 2017 -Lingfield 7.20pm – Injured Jockeys Fund Handicap

Akavit – 9/4 – 2pt stake

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Today’s horse racing preview comes from Yarmouth and Lingfield. Frustrating day once more yesterday and it’s just hard to judge what is good in Ruth Carr’s yard these days, well at least we know Sovereign Debt is no flake of a horse.

 

I can only apologise for tipping up an odds on shot yesterday, if you read my blog you won’t see that on many occasions, was not that impressive either.

 

14.15 Yarmouth  – Norfolk Chamber Of Commerce Maiden Fillies Stakes (6f)

A competitive maiden here which has attracted top trainers and the tissue favourite here is Roger Varian’s Hermosita. The yard’s juveniles are going well this year and this daughter of Exceed & Excel is just another that has to be taken seriously on debut.

John Gosden’s 180,000 purchase Tivoli has a very speedy pedigree being by Dark Angel and a half-sister to sprinter Elletelle, she would be worth noting in the market if positive vibes come across.

Simon Crisford’s juveniles I think have been much more disappointing this year, their two year lots are minimum, but still have to be respected none the less.

The selection though is a bit of a price, partnered by Ryan Moore and trained by Michael Bell who represents First Drive; this nicely bred daughter of Street Cry will represent our noble Queen. The yard has been hitting above their averages for juveniles this season.

First Drive : 1pt each way @ 7/1 (BOG)

15.15 Yarmouth  – Well Balanced Ledger John H Simpson Accountant’s Fillies Handicap (0-70) (10.1f)

Theydon Girls got her head in front at the fifth time of asking over course and distance seven days ago, she won with some authority in a 0-55 handicap, takes a significant hike here and could be very vulnerable this time around.

Now I am becoming a sucker for this horse, Ms Gillard is far better than what she has been showing us, but 0-14 does not read well on her current resume.

For me she just finds the will to carry her runs through, but her recent Doncaster run when behind Livella Fella also saw the runner up Miss Ranger frank the form at the weekend.

Main danger has to come in the likes of Poppy Time who was beaten into fourth over course and distance only recently and danger once more. This is last chance saloon today with Ms Gillard, Crowley on board a big plus.

Ms Gillard : 2pt win @ 4/1 (BOG)

15.45 Yarmouth – Racing Welfare Handicap (0-80) (8f)

I actually like just the one entry here from the Marco Botti yard in Moolazim. Found all sorts of trouble when beaten favourite at Lingfield.

That was a 0-85 which has resulted in the winner going on to conquer at Goodwood, the second and third have won on that merit. Moolazim will have to really dig deep to win but very capable.

Willie Haggas’s Hakeem was impressive when winning on debut over course and distance forty-nine days ago. The third that day was a 150/1 shot and without sounding condescending he has gone on to frank that form.

Moolazim : 2pts each way @ 11/2 (BOG)

20.20 Lingfield – Takethereins17 Fillies Novice Stakes (6f)

Another each way outsider here who represents Tom Dascombe’s yard in Silver Bullet. Her fifth on debut reads quiet well when behind Main Desire who won the Marygate Fillies Stakes at York. It’s a race that will no doubt throw up winners.

Philimore of Richard Hannon’s would not have to be anything special to run well on debut. Daughter of Invincible Spirit through the blood line of Roy, so definitely a danger to all.

Silver Bullet : 1pt each way @ 12/1 (BOG)

 

Good luck today, Gamble Responsibly

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