West Ham United vs Manchester United
Thursday 10th May 2018
FA Premier League, London Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Main Event – Kick-Off: 19:45 

West Ham United vs Manchester United – Having suffered defeat at the hands of Brighton last week, Manchester United will be looking to bounce as they face West Ham at the Olympic Stadium.

That defeat was United’s seventh in the league this season and left them a whopping 17 points behind Manchester City. However, they only need one point from their last two games to secure second place. The Red Devils should achieve that feat comfortably; they face Watford at Old Trafford after this game at the weekend. It’s been an indifferent campaign for Jose Mourinho. On one hand, there is no doubt they have improved but having spent so much money, they are still miles away from City’s level. It will take another summer of investment for United; a centre-back, left-back and centre midfielder will be high on Mourinho’s list of priorities. Mourinho criticised his fringe players following their defeat to Brighton, with the likes of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial failing to take their chance.

West Ham sealed their top-flight status last weekend with an impressive 2-0 win at Leicester City. The victory took the Hammers to 15thin the league, five points clear of the bottom three. Marko Arnautovic has been the shining light in an otherwise dull campaign for West Ham.

After signing in the summer for £25 million the Austrian has managed 11 goals in his debut campaign; making him the club’s top scorer. In completing his mission, by lifting the club to safety, it will be interesting to see what David Moyes’ future holds. Despite a relatively successful time in charge, I’m not sure he is the man to take them forward.

Michael Oliver is the referee in East London, just days after officiating Swansea’s game against Southampton. The Englishman has an average booking points total of 7.7, the fifth highest in the league (of officials who have refereed 20+ games). As a result, I’d advise a maximum of 40+ match booking points.

This game might seem like is a bit of a dead rubber but it will matter to Mourinho. He’ll want to see a reaction from his side as they look to build momentum ahead of the FA Cup final.

West Ham United vs Manchester United will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League / Sky Sports Main Event, with kick-off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: West Ham United 1-2 Manchester United

Suggested tips – West Ham United vs Manchester United – (BET365):

  • Correct score, United to win 2-1 – (link no longer available).
  • Rashford to score anytime – (link no longer available).
  • Arnautovic to score first – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – West Ham United vs Manchester United – (SKYBET):

  • Price Boost – Paul Pogba to score from outside the area – 9/1.
  • Scorecast Boost: Lingard to score first and United to win 1-0 or 2-0 – 18/1. 
  • Popular Bets – Smalling to score a header and Arnautovic to score from outside the area – 200/1.
  • RequestABet up to 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 13/8. (NAP).

Odds and markets last updated on 10 May 2018 @18:28 GMT. Markets unlikely to be updated before kick off.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from this weeks domestic action from the UK including both Championship Play-Off Semi-Finals.

Swansea City vs Southampton
Tuesday 8th May 2018
FA Premier League, Liberty Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Main Event – Kick-Off: 19:45 

Swansea City vs Southampton: Swansea host Southampton in a ‘winner-takes-all’ game at the bottom of the Premier League.

The phrase ‘relegation six-pointer’ is a term often used too often, but it has never been more fitting for this game. Southampton sit level on point with Swansea, with just two league games remaining. Only goal difference is keeping the Saints out of the bottom three. They were denied a deserved victory at the weekend as Tom Davies struck in the 96th minute to break their hearts. Despite the late equaliser, the point was enough to lift them out of the bottom three and above Swansea. Southampton face league champions Manchester City at St Mary’s on the last day of the season, so this game is a must win. Huddersfield’s drawn with City has moved them three points clear of the bottom three, making it even more likely one of these two sides will drop into the Championship.

Swansea come into this game without a win in eight games in all competitions. Despite a fantastic start to life at the Liberty Stadium, Carlos Carvalhal’s side have struggled for form in recent weeks. At home, however, they have lost just one of their last six league games, winning four. Swansea face already-relegated Stoke City at home on the final day of the season, meaning a draw would still leave them with a chance of surviving. Victory would all but seal Premier League safety for another season.

Michael Oliver is the referee for Tuesday’s crucial fixture. The Englishman has an average booking points total of 37.7, the fifth highest in the league (of officials who have refereed 20+ games). As one of the league’s highest-rated referees, this a game he should be able to handle if not, the ramifications for either side could be colossal.

Both sides know they can’t afford to lose this game. As a result, I think it will be quite a cagey match, with little between the two teams. Consequently, I’m punting for a score-draw, which would suit Swansea more than Southampton.

Swansea City vs Southampton will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League HD with kick-off at 19:45.

Prediction: Swansea City 1-1 Southampton

Suggested tips – Swansea City vs Southampton  – (BET365):

  • Correct score, draw 1-1 – (link no longer available).
  • J Ayew to score first – (link no longer available).
  • BTTS – Yes – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Swansea City vs Southampton  – (SKYBET):

  • Austin to score and win – 2/1.
  • Group Correct Score – Draw 1-1, 2-2 or 3-3 – 10/3. (NB 2).
  • Request-A-Bet up to 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 6/5. (NAP).
  • SkyBet – Horse Racing/Football – Cross Sport Specials / RequestABet – Captain Simon (19.30 Ludlow) to win & Both Teams to Score (Swansea v Southampton) – 11/2. (NB).
  • Request-A-Bet up to 10/1 – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 13/2. (NBB).

Odds and markets last updated on 8 May 2018 @18:58 GMT. Markets unlikely to be updated before kick off – we added the last pick (BTTS, 4+ corners) just now at 18:58.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews from this weeks domestic cup action from the UK.

Chelsea vs Liverpool
Sunday 6th May 2018
FA Premier League, Stamford Bridge

Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 16:30 

Chelsea vs Liverpool – Chelsea host Liverpool in a must-win fixture as they bid to keep their faint hopes of a top-four finish alive.

Chelsea know that anything less than a victory will spell the end of their quest for Champions League football next season. The Blues are currently fifth in the league, six points behind Liverpool with a game in hand. Victory at Stamford Bridge would see them move to within three points of the Reds, with a game to spare. Whilst this season has been a bitterly disappointing campaign for the reigning champions, they could still salvage something from it. If they could snatch fourth place, alongside the FA Cup, then all would not be lost.

Chelsea’s squad needs a shake-up in the summer. The average age of the squad is 28, with a number of older players past their best. Having dismantled the spine of his title-winning side last summer, Conte has failed to replace those players. Nemanja Matic, David Luiz and Diego Costa have all been missed, due to poor recruitment. Chelsea have won their last four games all competitions but haven’t won at home in the league since March.

Liverpool secured their place in the Champions League final this week. Despite a 4-2 defeat in Rome, Jurgen Klopp’s side progressed into the final where they will face Real Madrid. The task until then is simple; secure a top-four finish. A draw this weekend would all but do that but three points would mathematically end any doubts. Liverpool have had a fantastic season; which could be topped off with European glory. A second-consecutive season in the top four also shows their progress domestically. With a few more additions – in the goalkeeping and defensive department – Liverpool could push for the title next year.

Anthony Taylor is the referee for Sunday’s crucial game. The Englishman has previously taken charge of this fixture, which Chelsea won 2-1 back in 2014. He has an average booking points total of 34.6 from 25 top-flight matches. This is an average score compared to other officials, so I’d steer clear of any high scoring booking points bets.

Chelsea have got to win this game. If they throw everything at Liverpool it could leave them susceptible to counter-attacks. It remains to be seen how sharp Liverpool will be following their midweek exploits but I see this one being a draw.

Chelsea vs Liverpool will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League with kick-off at 16:30.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-2 Liverpool.

Suggested Tips – Chelsea vs Liverpool (BET365)

  • Correct score, draw 2-2 – (link no longer available).
  • Firmino to score in anytime – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Chelsea vs Liverpool (SKYBET)

  • Morata and Salah to both score – 4/1.
  • BTTS and draw – 3/1.
  • BTTS and over 2.5 goals – 11/10.

Stoke City vs Crystal Palace
Saturday 5th May 2018
FA Premier League, BET365 Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 12:30

Stoke City vs Crystal Palace: Stoke host Crystal Palace in a must-win game at the bottom of the Premier League.

Time is running out for Paul Lambert’s side. The Potters are three points away from safety after picking up a point at Anfield last week. That 0-0 draw was Stoke’s first clean sheet in six games and keeps them undefeated in three matches. With a game against Swansea on the last day of the season to come, the next two results will shape their season. In order to move out of the bottom three, they would need to secure their first win in 12 games. That result against Huddersfield was Lambert’s only win in charge, a record he will need to rectify in the last two games.

Crystal Palace have all but secured their place in the next season’s top flight after picking up seven points from three games. Their 5-0 thumping of Leicester underlined the incredible job Roy Hodgson has done as Palace boss. The Eagles were bottom after 11 games with just four points, then six points adrift of safety. Since then, they’ve picked up 27 points in 24 games; a phenomenal turn around. The biggest task now is keeping hold of Wilfried Zaha. The former Manchester United man has been the catalyst in Palace’s revival and is attracting interest from a number of top-four clubs.

Martin Atkinson is the referee for this crunch clash at the Bet365 Stadium. The Englishman has an average booking points total of 41, the highest in the league. With so much on the line in this fixture, tempers could easily flare. I’d advise a maximum of 40+ booking points each team.

This is such an important game for Stoke. Realistically, they have to win to have any hopes of surviving. However, I think they’ll fall short against an in-form Palace side, resulting in a draw.

Stoke City vs Crystal Palace will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League with kick-off at 12:30 GMT

Prediction: Stoke City 1-1 Crystal Palace

Suggested tips – Stoke City vs Crystal Palace – (BET365):

  • Correct score, draw 1-1 – (link no longer available).
  • Zaha to score anytime- (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Stoke City vs Crystal Palace – (SKYBET):

  • Stoke to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 5/2.
  • Benteke and Shaqiri to both score – 17/2.
  • Stoke to win and under 2.5 goals – 9/2.

Odds and markets last updated on 4th May 2018 @15:53 GMT. Markets will be updated ahead of kick off so check back again before kick-off to see if there’s been any updates to the above picks.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews for this weekend’s FA Premier League and SkyBet Championship action.

Brighton vs Manchester United
Friday 4th May 2018
FA Premier League, Falmer Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Main Event – Kick-Off: 20:00 

Friday night’s live game see’s Brighton vs Manchester United. United will be looking to secure second place as they visit the South Coast to play Brighton.

Jose Mourinho’s side have won their last three games in all competitions, including last week’s victory over Arsenal. Marouane Fellaini’s stoppage-time winner gave United all three points, moving them five points clear of third-placed Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp’s side have just two matches left to play, whilst United need one win from their remaining three fixtures to finish second. Whilst they have been in the shadows of their city rivals this season, United have still made progress. If they can win the FA Cup this will only further strengthen this argument. They can still end the season with 86 points, which would be enough to win the title most another season.

Brighton can secure their place in next season’s Premier League with another win. In truth, Chris Hughton’s men have probably already done enough to retain their top-flight status but another victory would ease any doubts. The Seagulls are seven games without a win, although they’ve lost just one of their last four games in all competitions. Their last home games saw them fight back to draw 1-1 with Tottenham, whilst Arsenal fell to defeat at the Amex last month. With United, City and Liverpool to come before the season’s end, trying to pick up another point or two could be crucial.

Craig Pawson is the referee for this Friday night fixture. The Englishman has an average booking 39.1, one of the highest in the division. With that in mind, I would advise a maximum booking points total of 30+ each team as I don’t see this being a bad-tempered affair.

Brighton have proven they are capable of getting a result at home. United, however, will want to end the season in style and I think they will edge this match.

Brighton vs Manchester United will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event with kick off at 20:00 GMT.

Prediciton: Brighton 1-2 Manchester United

Suggested tips – Brighton vs Manchester United (BET365):

  • Correct score, United to win 2-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Brighton vs Manchester United (SKYBET):

  • Alexis to score and win – 5/2.
  • Lukaku and Murray to both score – 5/1.
  • BTTS and United to win – 5/2.
  • United to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 7/4.

Odds and markets last updated on 4th May 2018 @15:53 GMT. Markets will unlikely be updated ahead of kick off.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews for this weekend’s FA Premier League and SkyBet Championship action.

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal
Thursday 3rd May 2018
UEFA Europa League, Semi-final, Second Leg, Wanda Metropolitano

Live BT Sport 2 – Kick-Off: 20:05

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal: Arsenal take a trip to Spain to face Atletico Madrid with both sides looking to book their place in the final of the competition.

Atletico come into this game as favourites, following their 1-1 draw at the Emirates last week. Despite being reduced to ten men after just nine minutes, Diego Simeone’s men left London with a crucial away goal. Whilst Antoine Griezmann grabbed the goal, the plaudits fell on the shoulders of Jan Oblak. The Atletico stopper proved why he is one of the world’s best with a string of impressive saves to keep his side level. In addition to Oblak’s brilliance, Atletico defended manfully to deny the Gunners. Diego Godin, in particular, stood out as he led his side to a fantastic result.

In true Arsenal fashion, Arsene Wenger’s side managed to throw away a goal advantage against ten men. The Gunners allowed Griezmann to catch them on the break and score what could be a pivotal away goal. The goal itself illustrated the difference between the two sides; Atletico are renowned for their defensive prowess, whereas Arsenal crumble at the first sign of trouble. A bright spark from the first leg was another goal for Alexandre Lacazette. Since returning from injury the Frenchman has rediscovered his goal-scoring touch. With four goals in his last three games, he appears to be finding his feet in the capital.

Gianluca Rocchi is the referee on Thursday night. The Italian could be a good omen for the Gunners, with no English team yet to lose in a game he has officiated. In Serie A he has averaged five cards per game, showing 69 yellow cards in 15 matches. As a result, I would avoid going big on booking points for this tie. I’d advise a maximum of total 40+.

This game is hard to call. I wouldn’t expect many goals, with it being such a tight match. I think Atletico might nick it, with Arsenal needing to score. Griezmann to score anytime would be my selected bet for this game, as both sides fight it out for a place in the final.

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal will be televised live in the UK on BT Sport with kick off at 20:05.

Prediction: Atletico Madrid 1-0 Arsenal

Suggested tips – Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, Atletico 1-0 – (link no longer available).
  • Costa to score first – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal (SKYBET):

  • Griezmann to score anytime – 10/11.
  • Atletico to win by exactly one goal – 5/2.
  • Pundits Pick – Phil Thompson’s RAB – Costa & Greizmann to score and Atletico Madrid to win to nil – 12/1. (NB2)
  • Lacazette to score and draw – 11/1.
  • Pundits Pick – Matt Le Tissier’s RAB – Costa to score first and Atletico Madrid to win to nil – 8/1.  (NB 1)
  • Player Shots on Target Multiples – Antoince Griezmann 3 shots on Target & Aaron Ramsey 1+ shots on target – 13/2 . (NAP)

Odds and markets last updated on 3 May 2018 @18:22 GMT. Markets unlikely to be updated prior to kick off.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around this weekends domestic action in the Premier League and Championship.

Roma vs Liverpool
Wednesday 2nd May 2018
UEFA Champions League, Semi-Final, Second Leg, Stadio Olimpico

Live on BT Sport – Kick-Off: 19:45

Roma vs Liverpool – Liverpool face a trip to the Stadio Olympico to face Roma in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.

The Reds 5-2 victory over La Lupa last week helped them place on foot in the final of this year’s competition. Goals from Mohamad Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane did the damage as Jurgen Klopp’s side raced into a five-goal lead. However, in true Liverpool fashion, the Reds failed to see the game out, conceding two late away goals and gifting Roma an avenue back into the tie. After their famous 3-0 fightback in the last round against Barcelona, Roma need the same result again to progress. Keeping Liverpool out at the other end, however, is a task that many have failed with this season. There’s no doubt Liverpool will have chances to grab themselves an away goal, or two. Should they nab one, on the counter-attack then they should see themselves through.

Liverpool rested men at the weekend in preparation for this crucial game. As a result, they stuttered to a 0-0 draw with Stoke, leaving them still sweating on a top-four finish. They hold a six-point lead over Chelsea but have played a game more. They must also travel to Stamford Bridge before the season is out. Should Chelsea win both those games, they would be level on points with Klopp’s side.

Roma responded to their defeat with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Chievo. The result keeps them in third place, level on points with Lazio. After scoring at Anfield, Edin Dzeko continued his fine form in front of goal with another brace. That took his tally for the season to 25 including six goals in his last eight games.

Damir Skomina will be the referee in Rome. The Slovenian has officiated six games in Europe this season, issuing 38 yellow cards and 0 reds. This averages at 63.3, which is extremely high. As a result, I would advise a maximum booking points total of 30+ each time.

Interestingly, Liverpool have a 100% losing record in matches officiated by Skomina. However, I think that run will end on Wednesday night. The Reds showed in the first-leg their ability to hurt Roma and on the counter-attack, I think they could be even more dangerous.

Roma vs Liverpool will be televised live in the UK on BT Sport with kick-off at 19:45.

Prediction: Roma 2-2 Liverpool

Suggested Tips – Roma vs Liverpool (BET365):

  • Correct score, draw 2-2 – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Roma vs Liverpool (SKYBET):

  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Dzeko to score, over 2.5 goals, 8+ Roma corners and 60+ match booking pts – 20/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Roma v Liverpool – BTTS, 3+ corners each team and Fazio, Jesus, Henderson & Lovren to be carded – 100/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABets – Roma v Liverpool – Kolarov, Firmino & Mane 1+ shots on target each, 8+ match corners and 40+ match booking pts – 9/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 11/1 to 28/1 – Roma v Liverpool – Roma to score 2+ goals, Dzeko & Salah 2+ shots on target each & Firmino 1+ shots on target and 6+ Roma corners – 11/1.
  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Roma v Liverpool – Roma to score 2+ goals, 5+ Roma corners and 20+ Liverpool booking pts – 5/2. (NAP)
  • BTTS, over 2.5 goals, 8+ match corners and 40+ match booking pts – 7/4.

Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich
Tuesday 1st May 2018
UEFA Champions League, Semi-Final, Second Leg, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Live on BT Sport – Kick-Off: 19:45

Real Madrid vs Bayern: Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the second leg  of their Champions League semi-final looking to secure a third consecutive final appearance.

Goals from Marcelo and Marco Asensio gave Madrid a 2-1 victory at the Allianz Arena. Despite taking the lead through Joshua Kimmich, Bayern conceded two crucial away goal which sees them chasing the game ahead of their meeting at the Bernabeu. Zinedine Zidane’s side held a lead from the first-leg in the last round before almost losing to Juventus. This time around they will be much more focused on securing a third Champions League final in as many years. Gareth Bale continues to struggle to break into the side, after being left as an unused substitute in Germany. With Zidane preferring Isco, Asensio and Lucas Vasquez from the start, the Welshman’s future looks far from secure. Speculation has risen about a potential deal which could see long-term target Robert Lewandowski head to the Bernabeu, with Bale moving to Bayern.

Bayern come into this game as the underdogs. They must to score at least twice against the current holders to stand a chance of making it through to the final. With that in mind, expect Bayern to name a bold team selection as they bid to break down Real. This game is far from over, though; this year’s competition has been full of memorable comebacks. Jupp Heynckes’ side bounced back from defeat with a 4-1 victory at the weekend and will be confident of getting a result on Tuesday night.

Cuneyt Cakir is the referee for this crunch clash. The Turkishman, who has been an international referee since 2006, was in charge of a number of this season’s group stage matches, including Bayern’s 3-1 home victory over Paris Saint-Germain F.C and Real Madrid’s 3-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. He has an average booki g points total of 55.4 this season, which is very high. As a result, I’d advise a maximum points total of 30+ each team.

Real Madrid are in the ascendancy in this tie. They hold the lead and know Bayern have to come and attack them. Zidane should be able to navigate them to yet another final and I’m backing them to win.

Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich will be televised live in the UK on BT Sport with kick-off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Bayern Munich.

Suggested tips – Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich – (BET365):

  • Correct score, Madrid 3-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich – (SKYBET):

  • Ronaldo to score a brace – 7/2.
  • Ronaldo and Lewandowski to both score – 11/4.
  • Isco to score and Real to win in 90 mins – 6/1.
  • Over 2.5 goals, over 10.5 corners and over 35 booking points – 15/8.

Spurs vs Watford
Monday 30th April 2018
FA Premier League, Wembley Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 20:00 

Spurs vs Watford – Spurs host Watford this Monday night in Premier League action.

With the season drawing to its conclusion, Spurs are hoping to cement their place in the top four places. Meanwhile, Watford have very little to play for, with their Premier League status safe for another season.

The hosts are currently fourth in the Premier League with Chelsea trying to catch them up. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have had another very impressive campaign, with Harry Kane, yet again, stealing the headlines. The striker has spearheaded an attack that have managed to find the net 66 times in their 34 outings. They have also managed to score two or more goals in 50% of their matches all season. Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli have also illustrated their class in recent weeks.

Defensively, Spurs have been rather tight and rigid at the back. Jan Vertonghen and Ben Davies have been two stand out performers throughout the Premier League season. They have been part of a back four that have conceded 31 goals all season and managed to keep a clean sheet in 41% of their matches. It’s tough to see past this strong North London outfit.

The visitors are currently 12th in the Premier League and far away from any danger that could occur. Whilst their attack has been rather prolific, at times their defence has made for poor viewing. They enter the match with 3 draws and 3 losses in their last six matches. Over the course of the season they have scored 42 times and managed two or more in 42% of their games.

However, defensively Watford have not been a pretty side. They have conceded 60 goals all season with only West Ham and Stoke conceding more. They’ve picked the ball out of their net 13 times in their last six games and kept a clean sheet in 25% of their matches all campaign. They have a tough evening ahead of them.

The referee for this match will be Michael Oliver. The official has awarded an average of 38.7 booking points in his 27 Premier League appearances.

The match will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and will kick off at 20:00pm.

Prediction: 3-0 Spurs

Suggested tips – Spurs vs Watford – (BET365):

  • Spurs to win to nil – (link no longer available).
  • Correct score, Spurs to Win 3-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Spurs vs Watford – (SKYBET):

  • Le Tissier’s RAB: Kane, Ali and Erickson to score and Spurs win 3-0 – 80/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Ali, Soin, Eriksen, & Deeney each 1+ shots on target, 6+ Tottenham corners, and 30+ match booking points – 18/1.
  • RequestABets up to 10/1 – Kane to score and Tottenham to win 3-0 – 7/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Kane to score, Tottenham to win, BTTS – No, 8+ match corners and Dembele to be carded points – 28/1. (NAP)

Odds and markets last updated on 30th April 2018 @18:35 GMT. Markets will be not be updated ahead of kick off.

Don’t forget to keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for more previews for this upcoming weekends FA Premier League and European football action from the Champions League and Europa League.

Manchester United vs Arsenal
Sunday 29th April 2018
FA Premier League, Old Trafford

Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 16:30 

Manchester United vs Arsenal – But for it being Arsene Wenger’s final trip to Old Trafford as Arsenal manager, Sunday’s Premier League showdown at Manchester United means very little.

The vicious rivalry of yesteryear has dimmed in recent times, leaving this once massive date in the English football calendar looking rather insignificant amid the greater scheme of things. That is the case more than ever this season.

United are coasting in second place, unlikely to be caught by those below, and with their sights set on lifting the FA Cup final next month.

That could be key to their motivation this weekend. Manager Jose Mourinho has complained about his players’ inability to perform at a consistently high level this year and will be demanding they can continue where they left off while knocking Tottenham out of the Cup last Saturday.

Many felt the 2-1 comeback at Wembley United’s most complete, exciting display of the season and their Portuguese coach will expect them to retain the momentum gained.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are sixth in the table, with only the threat of being overtaken by Burnley to keep them on their guard.

Battling off the pitch to dispel rumours Wenger is being forced out by the board – rather than it being a mutual decision, the players have responded well in the two games since his departure at the end of the season was confirmed.

They thumped West Ham 4-1 at the Emirates last Sunday, and then played even better in the home leg of their Europa League clash with Atletico Madrid.

Unfortunately, they were not as ruthless in front of goal, though. They scored once from 27 shots – and then allowed ten-man Atletico to snatch an undeserved late equaliser and 1-1 draw.

With the semi-final tie so evenly poised – and the second leg in Madrid looming large four days after the United game – Wenger is likely to ring the changes and field a virtual second-string line-up.

Which hardly bodes well for any sort of upset on Sunday.

United are very strong on their patch this term. They have lost only three of 24 in all competitions, winning 19 of those.

You could argue Wenger’s reserves cannot do worse on the road than his regulars. Arsenal have not taken a point on their travels in 2018. They have won only three times in 16 away league games, losing a nightmare nine.

Arsenal have not won in the league at Old Trafford in ten attempts. They last won there in September 2006. However, they have drawn two of their last three at United.

Scorers: Alexis Sanchez is beginning to deliver. He followed two assists in the 3-2 derby win over Man City with a goal in last weekend’s FA Cup semi-final win over Spurs – his second in four games.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, cup-tied in the Europa League, seems certain to lead the Arsenal line. The Gabon striker has scored five in his last seven appearances.

Referee Kevin Friend has shown 40 yellows in 18 league games this season, an average 2.2 per match. He is yet to show a red card.

Manchester United vs Arsenal will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League HD with kick-off at 16:30 GMT.

Prediction: Manchester United to win 2-0.

Suggested tips – Manchester United vs Arsenal – (BET365):

  • Manchester United to win to nil – (link no longer available).
  • Correct score, Manchester United to Win 2-0 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Manchester United vs Arsenal – (SKYBET):

  • RequestABet 80/1 and above – Sanchez, Rashford & Lukaku to score, Manchester United win 4-0 – 100/1.
  • Le Tissier’s RAB: Lukaku & Sanchez to score and Manchester United win 2-0 – 66/1.
  • RequestABet 80/1 and above – Lukaku & Sanchez to score, Manchester United win 2-0 and under 40 match booking points – 100/1.
  • Price Boost – Nemanja Matic and Granit Xhaka both to be carded  – 8/1.
  • Price Boost – Pogba to score outside the area  – 8/1.
  • Player to be Carded Boost – Callum Chambers to be carded  – 2/1. (NAP)
  • Player to be Carded Boost – Ainsley Mainland-Niles to be carded  – 6/1. (NB)
  • RequestABet up to 10/1 – Manchester United to score 2+ goals, 5+ Manchester United corners & 20+ Arsenal booking points – 13/8. (NAP 2)
  • RequestABet 80/1 and above – Sanchez to score, Manchester United to win and score 2+ goals, 7+ match corners, and 20 Arsemal booking points – 9/2. (NB 2)
  • RequestABet 80/1 and above – Lukaku & Sanchez to score, Xhaka & Chambers to be carded – 50/1. (NB 3)
  • RequestABet 80/1 and above – Lukaku & Sanchez to score, Manchester United win 2-0 and under 40 match booking points – 100/1. (Outsider)