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    Virgil van Dijk looking great value to expose hidden Arsenal weakness in Anfield clash –  Weekend Wager’s best bets

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager is back to give you the best set of betting tips for this weekend’s Premier League action.The title race may be over, but the Champions League race is only hotting up as some blockbuster fixtures hit the calendar.Our betting experts have some great tips for the weekend’s Premier League actionCredit: ReutersFirst of all we have the best two teams in the country facing off at Anfield as Arsenal look to restore some pride and end their season on a high on their visit to champions Liverpool.Elsewhere, Newcastle play Chelsea in what could be a pivotal match for the top five.And Bournemouth host Aston Villa as Unai Emery’s team look to claw their way into the Champions League spots.We have all that and more on this weekends edition as host, Will Pugh, is joined by football journalist, Kweku Afari, and Betfair betting expert, James Mackie.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLiverpool vs Arsenal – Sunday, 4:30pmKweku: Mohamed Salah to score anytime. 7/5″When I was looking at this, I could not believe the odds. “They’re aiming for my bet. Mo Salah to score anytime, 7-5.”Let’s remember Salah is the top goal scorer in the Premier League, has scored 28 league goals this season, and also leads the league in assists.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”He is by far the best player in the league and the man for the big occasion as well. Most read in Football”The stats back it up, Salah has scored 11 Premier League goals against Arsenal, only netting more against Manchester United, 13 goals, and Tottenham, 12 goals. This week’s title: How ‘brave’ Arsenal were denied by PSG in Champions League semi-final”So, you know Salah, when it’s a big occasion, especially off the back of last week where it was a bit disappointing, you know it’s going to turn up for Liverpool.Will: Draw. 15/8Will thinks deflated Arsenal will draw with on the beach LiverpoolCredit: Getty”I was racking my brains about this game, and it’s so hard to call with not loads riding on it. Obviously a little bit of pride. Arsenal will be sort of mentally deflated. “So if I had to pick, I’d say maybe Liverpool, you know, big party atmosphere, as there will be at Anfield. But I just couldn’t pick a winner. So I’ve gone draw 15-8. I know it’s not very adventurous, but I just couldn’t see anything anywhere else result-wise.”Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 14 home games against Arsenal in all competitions, won seven and drawn seven since a 2-0 defeat in the Premier League in September 2012. “So that tells me Arsenal probably aren’t going to win. Arsenal, though, are unbeaten in their last five Premier League games against Liverpool with two wins and three draws, which is their longest run without defeat against Liverpool since a run of eight between October 2007 and April 2011. “This is also the third time Arsenal are facing the Prem champions in a season once the title has already been confirmed. “And the last two was a 1-0 draw with Man Utd in 2012-13 and actually beat Liverpool in 2019-20.”James: 2+ shots for Virgil van Dijk. 12/5James reckons Virgil van Dijk’s aerial prowess is too good to ignoreCredit: Getty”I’ve looked down at the, what a seriously special player, Virgil van Dijk. And he scored two in his last four. So when you look at stuff like that, you’ve got to think, right, can he keep going?”He’s just an absolute menace off corners. And another stat to back up this bet is it’s Virgil van Dijk to have two plus shots in the game at 12-5. It was 4-9 for just one, 12-5 for two.”He scored two in his last four, but he’s had two plus shots in three of those four games. So the stats are there. He’s been doing it already.”Another thing I was looking at here as well is that Arsenal conceded 39 per cent of their goals in the Premier League this season from set-piece situations. That’s the most from any side in the Premier League.”But yeah, look, the stats back it up. You’re getting 12-5 about Van Dijk. He’s going to go for every corner. “Also, it’s the main man’s 300th Premier League game on Sunday. So look, what better way than going, give me the 12-5, two plus shots.Speaker 2: So that’s the hidden value for me there.”Bournemouth vs Aston Villa – Saturday 5:30pmKweku: Emiliano Martinez 5+ saves. 11/4″The stats back this up as well. Bournemouth have had more shots following a high turnover than any other side in the Premier League this season, with 65. “Their 65 shots and eight goals from high turnovers this season are the most of any of their top five campaigns, which is eight, which suggests the high press from [Andoni] Iraola, the fact that Bournemouth are up and at them, converts into chances.”And I think that Martinez, like I say, will be a very busy man. Kweku believes it’s a sure bet Emiliano Martinez will have a busy afternoonCredit: Getty”And only Salah with 121 and Cole Palmer with 120 shots have had more shots than Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, who’s had 118 this season. “So it suggests that Bournemouth do create chances. They don’t always take them. “But the fact that there’s a world-class shotstopper in Martinez in goal for Aston Villa and Bournemouth all have a lot of shots, I think Martinez, five or more saves, 11/4. I like it.Will: Draw HT, Bournemouth win FT. 11/2″Bournemouth have scored more goals in second-half stoppage time than any other team in the Premier League this season, while only Southampton, on ten, have conceded more than Aston Villa have in that time. “Villa have conceded eight in second-half stoppage time. Bournemouth have scored eight in second-half stoppage time. So they’ve got the stamina. They can go deep into games. “Bournemouth lost 1-0 at home to Aston Villa in their first ever Premier League match in August 2015. But since then, the Cherries are unbeaten in three at home to Villa, scoring exactly two goals in each of those games.Bournemouth should have enough about them to win at home after 90 minutesCredit: Rex”That’s two victories and one draw. So they’ve got a good record against them, they’ve got used to playing them. And Bournemouth have won seven of their 13 Premier League games against teams starting the day above them in the table this season.”They’ve drawn three and lost three of the other ones that they didn’t win, which is the highest win rate of any side to play more than one such game this term. “So more than half of their games, they’ve played against teams above them in the league at time of kick-off. They have come out victorious. So I did really like that. I do give Bournemouth a chance. I think they’re getting a bit underrated this season.”James: Ollie Watkins to score or assist. 11/10″I think this is the bet of the weekend. “When you’re getting odds against about top strikers in the Premier League, either scoring or assisting, you’ve got to have a look and take advantage. And Ollie Watkins is the man that I’m looking at here.”Watkins has been directly involved in five goals in his four Premier League starts against Bournemouth. Ollie Watkins is up against one of his favourite opponents in BournemouthCredit: Getty”One goal, four assists. He’s four assists against the Cherries, the most against any opponent he’s got.”Absolutely superb. “And like I said, when you’re looking, not even just to score, to assist as well, and you get an 11-10 about their talisman up top, who’s bagged all season, I think it’s a brilliant bet.Ascot, Victoria Cup – Saturday, 2:40pm It is set to be another exciting week at the Ascot RacecourseCredit: ReutersJames: Qirat 5/1″It’s Qirat at the top of the market of 5-1. This horse for Ralph Beckett, Ross O’Ryan’s one of the best jockeys I think around at the moment. He’s doing the steering.”This horse has got some proven form already at Ascot in an 18-runner handicap. But what I like from this horse is I think we’ve got a group horse in a handicap here. “So you see horses that are running against lesser horses. They’ve got a bit bigger weight. They’re going to go on to deeper waters later on in the season.”It’s his first run of the season. He’s racing off a mark of 99. He’s won off a mark of 92. He’s finished second last twice off marks of 97 and 98.”Back at Ascot on the straight where he’s already done it, finished second in a really good handicap. Read More on The Sun”I think at 5-1 off what, five or six pounds higher. I think he’s going to go on to deeper waters. And I think 5-1, I think he’s got a cracking chance in this handicap, Qirat.18+ | GambleAware.org | Please Gamble Responsibly More

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    Can Arsenal exploit the horror Man Utd stat that haunts Ruben Amorim’s flops? Weekend Wager’s best bets

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager uses in-depth stats and razor-sharp analysis to bring you the best value bets from the upcoming bumper weekend of sport.Joining our very own Will Pugh on this week’s show is football broadcaster Kweku Afari and Betfair betting expert Sam Rosbottom.Arsenal take on Manchester United in the weekend’s biggest gameCredit: GettyThis week the panel gave their thoughts on how punters could make the most of the weekend’s biggest Premier League fixture, Manchester United vs Arsenal, and the bottom of the table scrap between Wolves and Everton.While they also weighed in on the Six Nations action and the Betfair Imperial Cup at Sandown.Check out all our best bets for the weekend below, in association with Betfair.Manchester United vs ArsenalKewku Afari: Arsenal to win & over 2.5 goals – 21/10READ MORE ON MAN UTD”If you look at Arsenal team, they’re strange when it comes to results. “Sometimes they can’t hit a barn door with banjo and sometimes, as we saw a midweek against PSV, they can put multiple goals in against the opposition. “I’m looking Manchester United here, and in six of their last seven games at Old Trafford the opposition has scored at least two goals. “And so I’m looking at them defensively. I’m looking at them in terms of Andre Onana the way that he doesn’t fill the fans of confidence. Most read in Football”They’re a team that do leak goals, especially at home.”Will Pugh: Mikel Merino to score first – 13/2″Merino’s got three goals in his last four appearances and notched one of the seven at PSV, didn’t he? and got two off the bench in that sort of striker debut [vs Leicester].”But as well as the Merino stats, since the weekend of Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge, only Leicester (13) have conceded the opening goal in more Premier League games than Manchester United, who have gone 1-0 down 12 times.”While Arsenal have scored in each of their last 10 Premier League away games against Manchester United.”They have 13 goals in those 10 games, having only managed to score 10 in their first 22 visits to Old Trafford.”Mikel Merino has scored three goals in four games since stepping in as Arsenal’s makeshift centre-forwardCredit: AFPSam Rosbottom: Arsenal HT/Draw FT – 12/1″I don’t think Arsenal are going to win this game. You have to go back to December 1 to find the last time Manchester United won a first half, that was against Everton at Old Trafford.”But they have won the second half in 8 of their last 11 matches.”The stats show that Manchester United are turning into a second half team”.Wolves vs Everton Kewku Afari: Beto to score anytime – 21/10″He’s scored five goals in his last five Premier League games. That’s more than his previous 44 games, which is… unbelievable.”And in the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, he’s been very, very important. So they are relying on Beto. “Also, in his last five Premier League matches, he’s had two or more shots on target. So I expect him to come to the fore for Everton this weekend.”Will Pugh: Jorgen Strand Larsen to 2+ shots on target – 11/4″Jorgen Strand Larsen has been targeted by passes in the box 85 times this season, which is the most of any player in the Premier League.”While only Dominic Solanke has made more forward runs into the opposition penalty box at 237 than Strand-Larsen has – he’s really a focal point for Wolves.”I think Strand-Larsen has been doing some good work and he’s a real asset to them”.Sam Rosbottom: Jack Harrison 1+ shot on target – 6/4″Jack Harrison has been very unfortunate. He has an unwanted record.”He’s got the highest expected goals total of any player yet to score in the Premier League this season at 2.9xG – meaning he should have scored three times.”I’m not actually going to go with him to score though, but I do think there’s value in him to have a shot on target.”He’s had seven shots in his last six games and we just need one of them to be on target this weekend.”Jack Harrison is due a goal this seasonCredit: RexEngland vs Italy – Six NationsSam Rosbottom: Italy +16 – 2/1 “England are absolutely massive favourites against Italy, but we laugh about how tight England games have been. “And Italy, so far this tournament aren’t the whipping boys that they usually are. Wales are the whipping boys, not Italy.”So I’m looking at the handicap market here and I think there’s an opportunity to get Italy on side at plus 16 which is 2-1.”So essentially, England can win the game But if they win by a margin smaller than 16 points then we win the bet.””I don’t think it’s going to be tight, obviously because England should do the business, but I don’t think it’s going to be as big a gap as everybody’s anticipating here.”England are strong favourites to beat Italy this weekendCredit: PABetfair Imperial Cup at SandownSam Rosbottom: Go Dante – 11/2, Bo Zenith – 11/2, Lump Sum – 8/1 and Knickerbockerglory e/w – 14/1″Obviously, lots of movement already in the market following the news that last year’s winner, Go Dante, was 25/1. “There’s been a big gamble on him, now backed into joint favour at 11/2, now joint favourite along with Bo Zenith.”Lump Sum, who was the favourite, moving the other way, was 5/1, now 8/1. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s a horse in here that I quite fancy for each way for five places at 14/1 – Knickerbockerglory.”I think that’s a SWEET each way shout”.Go Dante has seen its odds drop massivelyCredit: Rex More

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    ‘Gem of a bet’ – Why Maguire is Man Utd’s dangerman & how foul play could be worth a flutter in Leicester v Arsenal game

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager uses in-depth stats and cutting-edge analysis to unearth the best value bets ahead of the sporting weekend.Joining our very own Will Pugh this week is football journalist Kweku Afari and betting expert Sam Rosbottom, who will be looking for the best value on a packed two days of action.SunSport’s Weekend Wager team are finding the best value bets for this weekendCredit: SunSportThere’s plenty at stake when Tottenham host Manchester United as Ange Postecoglou looks for his THIRD win of the season over the Red Devils.There’s also some great bets to be found in Arsenal’s trip to Leicester as they pray for a new goal scorer to emerge.And punters can get some tasty tips for the Betfair Ascot Chase, as well as the winner of this season’s Super League Grand Final.Check out all our best bets for the weekend below:READ MORE IN FOOTBALLManuel Ugarte could wind up in the book once againCredit: ReutersTOTTENHAM VS MAN UTDKWEKU AFARI: “There’s two selections I like in this game. United to win by exactly one goal, 4/1.“Plus Manuel Ugarte to be carded, 9/5.“I’ve put them both together: 11/1.“Ugarte is United’s most booked player in the Premier League with eight yellows.Most read in Football“The second most in the league, and that’s from 13, so I expect him in the book.“In terms of Spurs, they have already lost 13 games this season. 12 of those 13 have been by only one goal.“They’re always in games. I expect United to win but I expect it to be close.”Harry Maguire may be United’s dangerman against SpursCredit: APWILL PUGH: “I’m going Harry Maguire to have a shot and receive a card. That’s 9/2.“If you only like one, Maguire to have a shot is 8/11.“And Maguire to receive a card is 11/5.“Maguire has had five shots in his last eight league starts and has received four yellows in his last six starts.”Spurs are hoping to beat United for the third time this seasonCredit: ReutersSAM ROSBOTTOM: “I just can’t see United beating Spurs. This will be the third time they’ve played this season, Spurs won 3-0 and 4-3 in the cup.“United have conceded at least two goals in each of their last four league games against Spurs.“For me, Spurs to score over 2.5 goals at 5/2 is a solid bet.”SunSport’s best Tottenham vs Man Utd betsMan Utd to win by exactly one goal: 4/1Manuel Ugarte to be carded: 9/5Both bets combined: 11/1Harry Maguire to have a shot: 8/11Harry Maguire to receive a card: 11/5Both bets combined: 9/2Tottenham to score over 2.5 goals: 5/2Arsenal are being backed to beat Leicester with easeCredit: GettyLEICESTER VS ARSENALKWEKU AFARI: “Pretty straightforward. I’ve got Arsenal to win to nil, 11/10.“Arsenal are unbeaten in their last seven away league games. “Leicester have lost their last four league home games to nil.”Martin Odegaard could be Arsenal’s main goal threatCredit: GettyWILL PUGH: “Havertz is out. Their only real goal hope is Martin Odegaard.“So I’ve got Odegaard goal or assist at evens.“Leicester, no clean sheets in 17 league matches. Second most goals conceded.“Of Arsenal’s available players, Odegaard has had the highest XG of 0.27 across his last 30 games.”James Justin could have a tough timeCredit: AlamySAM ROSBOTTOM: “There’s something I really like here.“James Justin to commit two-plus fouls is 11/4.“He’s committed eight fouls in his last four appearances. Trossard will play left wing, he’s been fouled 15 times in his last 10 games.“Miles Lewis-Skelly has been fouled 13 times in his last five games. I think it’s a great bet.”SunSport’s best Leicester vs Arsenal betsArsenal to win to nil: 11/10Martin Odegaard goal or assist: EvensJames Justin to commit two-plus fouls: 11/4Corbetts Cross is hoping for glory at AscotCredit: PABETFAIR ASCOT CHASESAM ROSBOTTOM: “We can’t split Corbetts Cross and Pic D’Orhy at the moment. Both market favourites at 2/1.“L’Homme Presse is at 5/2 and Blue Lord is 10/1.“Then Le Patron at 16/1 and Flegmatik at 100/1.“Pic D’Orhy won this race last time and isn’t going to Cheltenham, they’re targeting Aintree.“Corbetts Cross going for the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. It’s difficult to pick between them.”SunSport’s best Betfair Ascot Chase betsCorbetts Cross: 2/1Pic D’Orhy: 2/1L’Homme Presse: 5/2Blue Lord: 10/1Le Patron: 16/1Flegmatik: 100/1Wigan are favourites to defend their Super League titleCredit: GettySUPER LEAGUESAM ROSBOTTOM: “It’s very similar to the regular season outright.“For Grand Final winners, Wigan are up there at 11/8.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Warrington are 5/1 and St Helen’s are 5/1.“Hull KR are 11/2. It’s an interesting one, expect these outright odds to shift around as results come in.”SunSport’s best Super League betsTo win the Grand Final:Wigan: 11/8Warrington: 5/1St Helen’s: 5/1Hull KR: 11/2Leeds Rhinos: 10/1Catalans Dragons: 11/1Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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    Punter wins incredible £78,000 bet thanks to dramatic 93rd-minute goal clinching 23-leg accumulator

    A PUNTER has won an incredible £78,000 bet after a dramatic 93rd minute goal clinched a 23-leg accumulator.The giddy gambler placed a £20 bet on the amount of goals across games in numerous leagues including England, Italy and Spain.A punter turned a £20 bet into a £78,000 jackpot with a 23-team accumulatorCredit: PAA late Sheffield Wednesday goal sealed the amazing betCredit: PAThe punter correctly predicted over 1.5 goals in 19 of the 23 games, as well as goals in both halves for the remaining four.However, their bet was not coming in due to Sheffield Wednesday losing 1-0 to West Brom.But in the 93rd minute, Callum Paterson netted a dramatic late strike to get their acca over the line.West Brom went on to score an even later winner in the 96th minute, but the result did not matter due to the amount of goals needed already being reached.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe punter’s longest-priced selection was 17/20, with the shortest at odds of 1/5.And it saw their £20 bet become a £78,294.17 jackpot.Teams involved in the accumulator included Juventus, Arsenal, Newcastle and Wrexham.And the punter will now be planning how to spend their incredible winnings.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSSpokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, said: “This has to be one of the most impressive accumulator bets we’ve seen in some time with correct goals-based predictions in an scarcely believable 23 European and international football fixtures across the course of this week.“Sticking to bets on over 1.5 goals and goals in both halves, this is not merely a lucky flutter.Football icons’ strange hobbies“But there must have been some seriously tense moments on Saturday afternoon when West Brom v Sheffield Wednesday ticked to 90 minutes with only one goal on the scoresheet.“What a rollercoaster of emotions this punter must have been on this week, with the final correct prediction on Saturday landing them a huge £78,294.17 from just a £20 outlay, to end the week on the ultimate high.” More

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    Gabriel having it out with Haaland and ANOTHER Arsenal red could be knockout value as Weekend Wagers reveals best bets

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager uses in-depth stats and cutting-edge analysis to unearth the best value bets ahead of the sporting weekend.Joining our very own Will Pugh this week is football journalist Kweku Afari and betting expert Sam Rosbottom, who will be looking for the best value on a packed two days of action.SunSport’s Weekend Wager team are finding the best value bets for this weekendCredit: SunSportThere’s plenty at stake when Man City travel to rivals Arsenal on Sunday, with Erling Haaland and Gabriel Magalhaes set to renew their rivalry.There’s also a derby in the Midlands as Wolves host an Aston Villa side with a depleted backline.And punters can also look forward to some tasty tips for the Six Nations, as well as some horse racing.Check out all our best bets for the weekend below:READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCould there be another red card for Arsenal this weekend?Credit: GettyARSENAL VS MAN CITYKweku Afari: “My tip is Arsenal to receive a red card at 17/2.“Ill discipline has underpinned Arsenal ever since Mikel Arteta took charge.“Arsenal have received 19 red cards since he took over in December 2019, the most in the Premier League.“There’s been reds this season for Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, William Saliba and Myles Lewis-Skelly.Most read in Football“Four reds, the most in the Premier League so far.”And I fully expect that to continue this weekend.”Erling Haaland and Gabriel Magalhaes could clash heads againCredit: GettyWill Pugh: “I have gone for Gabriel Magalhaes to be fouled two or more times in the game at 4/1. “The Gabriel/Erling Haaland battle that is going to ensue… “Gabriel has been fouled 11 times in the last 10 games.“Haaland has committed seven fouls in the last 11 matches.“They’ve got history. I just fancy them going head to head.”Josko Gvardiol is sure to be a threat for CityCredit: GettySam Rosbottom: “Looking at other markets that take my fancy, Josko Gvardiol to have two shots or more in the match at 11/4 is a tasty price for me.“It’s one of those you can throw into a bet builder, set pieces could be big in this game.“He’s had 12 shots in his last eight Premier League games. “He’s the league’s top-scoring defender at the minute with five goals.”And he’s also City’s third-top scorer.”SunSport’s best Arsenal vs Man City betsArsenal to receive a red card: 17/2Gabriel Magalhaes to be fouled 2+ times: 4/1Josko Gvardiol to have 2+ shots: 11/4Ezri Konsa will be an aerial threat for Villa at WolvesCredit: GettyWOLVES VS ASTON VILLAKweku Afari: “Huge game. Ezri Konsa to score at 12/1.“This Villa team has suffered with injuries — Pau Torres, Tyrone Mings, Amadou Onana.“Konsa is a threat in the box. He’s only scored once in 21 games but he will be their focal point at set pieces.“Wolves have conceded 303 fouls in the league — only second to Bournemouth on 309.“There’s going to be lots of balls going into Wolves’ box from Villa and I expect Konsa to be busy.“Now this stat is going to blow your mind. Wolves have shipped in 19 set-piece goals this season — excluding penalties — the most of any side.“The only side who conceded 20 in a season were Spurs in the 07/08 season and I expect Wolves to beat that this weekend.”Jorgen Strand Larsen has made the second-most runs into the opposition box this seasonCredit: GettyWill Pugh: “Talking of brave, Jorgen Strand Larsen to have 2+ shots on target in the game at 5/2.“Only Dominic Solanke, with 237, has had more runs into the opposition’s penalty area this season than Strand Larsen on 210.“And 80 of those 210 runs into the area have been targeted by passes by a Wolves player.“He’s had 10 shots on target in his last eight league matches. And he’s had at least one shot on target in six of those last eight games.“With Mings’ injury and Villa’s defensive frailties, I fancy he’ll get a lot of opportunities.”Youri Tielemans loves a shot from distanceCredit: GettySam Rosbottom: “Straight in there, Youri Tielemans to have two or more shots at 9/5.“It’s a great option to have for a bet builder. He’s had nine shots in his last five Premier League starts.“He had two blocked shots and one unblocked shot against West Ham.“When Wolves mark players, I think Tielemans will fly under the radar and he does get forward and into the box.”SunSport’s best Wolves vs Aston Villa betsEzri Konsa to score: 12/1Jorgen Strand Larsen to have 2+ shots on target: 5/2Youri Tielemans to have 2+ shots: 9/5Galopin Des Champs is favourite to win in DublinCredit: PADUBLIN RACING FESTIVALSam Rosbottom: “There’s one race that stands out for me and it’s the Irish Gold Cup.“Galopin Des Champs coming up against Fact To File.“Going into this race they’ve had two races so far this season up against each other. It’s currently 1-1.“Galopin Des Champs is the favourite in this at 4/7. While Fact to File is currently 7/2.“Whoever wins, we’re likely to see some implication for the Cheltenham anti-post Gold Cup market as well.“For the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Galopin Des Champs is favourite at 4/5, going for three in a row.“But if Fact to File wins on Saturday it could shake the market up completely.“Fact to File is 4/1 for the Gold Cup. But it’s a big ask. Galopin is a really strong horse and it would be a big surprise if it doesn’t do the business this weekend.”SunSport’s best racing betsDublin Racing Festival — Irish Gold Cup winnerGalopin des Champs: 4/7Fact to File: 7/2Cheltenham Racing Festival: Gold Cup winnerGalopin des Champs: 4/5Fact to File: 4/1England have been tipped to lose their Six Nations openerCredit: GettyIRELAND VS ENGLANDSam Rosbottom: “We’ve got the Lions tour this summer, players are going to want to play for that.“Currently France are the favourites for the Six Nations at 6/4.“Ireland could make history and become the only side to win three in a row at 7/4.“England are 4/1 to win at the minute. 10 losses against the top four sides in 11 attempts.“But the one win they did get in that time came in the Six Nations at Twickenham against Ireland, which stopped them winning the Grand Slam last year.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s a massive game. But it’s not very patriotic. Ireland to win with a -6 handicap at Evens.“Revenge is on the line, England have a lot to do still. Ireland look a sound bet.”SunSport’s best Six Nations betsIreland vs EnglandIreland to beat England with a -6 handicap: EvensSix Nations winner oddsFrance: 6/4Ireland: 7/4England: 4/1Scotland: 8/1Wales: 45/1Italy: 100/1Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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    From snorting coke to moaning he was ‘too big’ to ref Coventry, nine moments in David Coote’s downfall

    TWO days after his Klopp comments went viral, The Sun revealed on November 13 Coote snorted cocaine in a video taken on July 6 while he was officiating at the Euros.COOTE: “The drugs happened on an entirely ad-hoc basis. It fills me with a huge sense of shame to sit here and to say that I took that route.”The nine moments in Premier League referee David Coote’s downfallCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd1.The Sun revealed that Coote snorted cocaine in a video taken while he was officiating at the Euros2.Coote said in video chats table toppers Liverpool ‘will not win the Premier League’Credit: GettyCOOTE said in video chats table toppers Liverpool “will not win the Premier League”.COOTE: “I guess I’m a human being who made a mistake in a moment I now deeply regret.”3.He branded the Reds defender Andy Robertson a ‘Scottish p****’Credit: GettyTHE ref branded the Reds defender Andy Robertson a “Scottish p****.”COOTE: “I certainly don’t think that. Everybody who takes to the football field is full of emotion. When we’re involved in the game, things will be said that people don’t mean. Read More on Sport”I’m pretty sure there’s been plenty of players or managers that have said things about me they wouldn’t sit here and say they believe. The same is true of us as match officials.”4.Coote said Everton’s Goodison Park was the worst place to referee, due to the fans ‘shouting abuse so close to the pitch’Credit: GettyHE said Everton’s Goodison Park was the worst place to referee, due to the fans “shouting abuse so close to the pitch”.COOTE: “It’s certainly not the worst place to officiate. Each ground, depending on how the result goes, can be just as difficult as any other. “So there’s no particular ground that’s more difficult than the other because it’s all really circumstance dependent.”Most read in Football5.The ref said he hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it is ‘too far away’Credit: GettyCOOTE said he hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it is “too far away”.COOTE: “We’re asked to go north, south, east and west, and all over Europe. Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder”There’s teams of officials that have been as far as Kazakhstan to do games. I was sent to Indonesia, so distance travel is never an issue.”6.He moaned he was ‘too big’ to have to ref at Coventry’s ground for their Championship clash against Oxford UtdCredit: GettyTHE ref moaned he was “too big” to have to ref at Coventry’s ground for their Championship clash against Oxford Utd on August 16.COOTE: “The Championship is a fantastic league and my experience of Coventry and all of the other games in the league have been really good ones — some of the most exciting football you’ll get to see.”7.The ref arranged a drugs party during Tottenham’s Carabao Cup win over Manchester CityCredit: ReutersCOOTE arranged a drugs party during Tottenham’s Carabao Cup win over Manchester City on October 30. During the interval he messaged his pal to say: “Hope you’re getting ready for me.”COOTE: “It never happened. These kinds of messages were among the behaviours I engaged with in order to escape.“It was almost like a different me and it’s something I really regret doing.“Clearly now I regret entering into those conversations.“I’ve paid the price for having them and that’s been a heavy one from a career and emotional perspective.”8.Coote giving a yellow card to Leeds’ Ezgjan Alioski before a 2019 match against West BromCredit: YouTubeAT the centre of an FA betting probe after he discussed giving a yellow card to Leeds’ Ezgjan Alioski before a 2019 match against West Brom. He messaged a pal: “I hope you backed as discussed.”COOTE: “I can categorically say that I’ve only ever done my best when I’ve gone onto the field of play.”9. Coote was sacked by Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL)Credit: PASACKED by the PGMOL.COOTE: “I have nearly 30 years experience of refereeing and I understood the implications of the situation I found myself in and the position the PGMOL were in.”The Sun’s back page reported on Coote’s X-rated Klopp rantIT’S VERY BRAVE MOVEBy AMAL FASHANU, Niece of Justin who runs foundation in his name“IT is very brave for anyone to come out, but more so for someone in the public eye.“This will affect David Coote and is a big step but it should have less of an effect that in would on a player. It’s not the same level of fame.”Amal Fashanu, niece of JustinCredit: Darren FletcherNorwich striker Justin killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come outCredit: Getty – ContributorAmal, whose former Norwich striker uncle killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come out, added: “We’d love to chat to him at the foundation.“We’d be there to offer any support and counselling.“We also help people with mental health problems and would be there for him if that was an issue.“There’s still something very wrong at the top of football.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’re in 2025, when everyone is supposedly liberal and accepting, yet something is stopping these men accepting who they are.“Football is still failing in this regard.” More

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    The Sun’s new betting show Weekend Wager hits the target thanks to Fulham star who delivered against Man Utd

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager got off to a flying start – with a 17/2 tip that came in after just 18 minutes.In the first of our weekly shows digging out the best value bets from the sporting world, our betting experts racked their brains to preview the sporting weekend.Alex Iwobi delivered a 17/2 tip from SunSport’s Weekend WagerCredit: GettyOur new weekly betting show provides the perfect preview to the weekend’s sporting actionCredit: SunSportAnd that included a superb tip from Betfair’s guru James Mackie.Mackie’s suggestion for Fulham’s home clash with Manchester United on Sunday night was all about Alex Iwobi.On the show, he said: “I’ve just gone for a single selection here. And I think it’s actually a bit of hidden value here. It’s 17/2 for Alex Iwobi to have two shots on target.“If you look at some of the stats around Iwobi, he’s had two first shots in each of his last five matches. Including three shots on target in his last three.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“He has been absolutely superb under Silva. That front four have been absolutely brilliant and Iwobi’s been a big part of that.“If you look on the side, he’s going to play against Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui.“They give up opportunities, left, right and centre. I think it’s a cracking bet.”And so it proved.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesBecause after just 18 MINUTES at Craven Cottage, Iwobi had already registered two shots on target and the 17/2 tip had come in.That was not the only success Mackie enjoyed this weekend, either.Man Utd’s Player Ratings vs FulhamHe also had East India Dock to win the 1.15 at Cheltenham on Saturday.He caught the value as he tipped James Owen’s hurdler at evens – with the 4-year-old winning by a massive TEN LENGTHS after being backed in to 1/2.Mackie added: “The last Cheltenham meeting before the Cheltenham Festival in March. Seven unbelievable trials for that four days in March.“I’ve gone for at Cheltenham, look, it’s not going to blow anyone away. It’s even money.“It’s one to start you off for your day before the football begins at three o’clock. It’s the East India Dock to win the 1.15 at Cheltenham.“This horse, he won last time out at Cheltenham in a Grade 2 Triumph Trial in November and I personally think this should be shorter. He’s only run twice over hurdles. He’s improved from run to run.“He was a brilliant flat horse and I think he’s going places for trainer James Owen this season.”“The angle to take with him, though, if you don’t want to take the short price of even money, he’s 6/1 for the Triumph Hurdle at the Festival. I think he’ll be about three or two to one after winning.“So maybe the angle is to play the anti-post market at a bigger price and watch and have a really nice ticket when it comes to the Cheltenham Festival.”READ MORE SUN STORIESEast India Dock is indeed now 11/4 for the Triumph Hurdle, the first race on the final day of the festival.Our next episode of Weekend Wager will drop on Friday – giving you plenty of time to place your bets before another blockbuster set of sporting fixtures.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.ukEast India Dock won the 1.15 at Cheltenham – as tipped on Weekend WagerCredit: PA More

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    Get £60 in FREE BETS when you stake £10 on football with William Hill

    WILLIAM HILL are offering punters a truly spectacular welcome bonus, and it’s available to claim right now!Brand new William Hill customers who register an account will be rewarded with a colossal £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football and in the casino!
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    Get £60 in free bets when you stake £10 on football with William HillCredit: WILLIAM HILL
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    William Hill: Claim your £60 welcome bonus – click here*
    *18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:
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    Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
    Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org
    Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More