Pools tips for this weekend January 1-2

Treble chance (home teams): Liverpool, Stoke, Norwich, Watford, Colchester, Walsall, Lincoln, Aberdeen, Hamilton, St Johnstone.

Best draws: Liverpool, Norwich, Watford, Aberdeen, Hamilton.

Aways: Arsenal, Ipswich, Derby, Bournemouth, Torquay.

Homes: Manchester City, Tottenham, Doncaster, Hull, Nottingham Forest, Hartlepool, Plymouth, Burton, Gillingham.


Pick of the draws: Bolton's rise in the Premier League has been one of the features of the season and they look good for a point at Liverpool, who are nowhere near the force they were. Queens Park Rangers have spectacularly recovered from their blip as Championship leaders and visit fellow promotion contenders Norwich, who are not as convincing at home as they are away. Watford play Portsmouth at Vicarage Road - a meeting of two teams who are consistently inconsistent. In the Scottish Premier League, lowly Aberdeen, now managed by Craig Brown, are tipped to end their losing home sequence against mid-table Dundee United while Hamilton, without a home victory all season, can at least hold fading Motherwell.

Away days: A goal in stoppage time denied Arsenal victory at St Andrew's last season, but they should go one better on Saturday against a goal-shy Birmingham side who are fighting relegation. Have a punt on Ipswich springing a surprise at Coventry, who have lost both their Christmas fixtures in the Championship. Although Derby have surprisingly lost five matches in a row, they will surely be too strong for managerless Preston, who are rock-bottom. For a team chasing League One promotion, Bournemouth's away form is poor, but I'm backing them to improve on that by beating a disappointing Swindon. Torquay to increase Hereford's misery at the bottom of League Two.

Homes sweet homes: A frustrated Doncaster, whose two games were postponed over Christmas, could be in the mood to take it out on relegation-threatened Scunthorpe. Hull are fancied to continue their climb up the Championship at the expense of Leicester. In League One, Hartlepool, who are making a surprising charge for the play-offs, are expected to account for Oldham. In League Two, take a chance on Burton defeating the higher-placed Shrewsbury while Gillingham, who are flying, will probably send Stevenage home pointless.

Pools tips for this weekend December 26-27

Treble chance (home teams): Arsenal, Blackburn, Ipswich, Leicester, Scunthorpe,  Bristol Rovers, Peterborough, Macclesfield, Kilmarnock, Partick. 


Best draws: Arsenal, Scunthorpe, Bristol Rovers, Macclesfield, Kilmarnock. 


Aways: Tottenham, Norwich, Hull, Brentford, Gillingham. 


Homes: Everton, Derby, Reading, Bournemouth, Exeter, Huddersfield, Leyton Orient, Notts County, Port Vale. Because of the severe winter weather, there is again likely to be major disruption to the holiday fixtures. If postponements are the rule rather than the exception, punters are advised to keep an eye on the selections of the pools panel, which should be published the following day in the national newspapers. A happy Christmas to you all. 


Pick of the draws: Arsenal appear to have a mental block when playing the top teams but this time should be the equal of Chelsea, who have had their own problems recently. I am taking Scunthorpe, last but one in the Championship, to end their wretched run of results at home against Preston, who are bottom. Bristol Rovers have slipped into the League One relegation zone and may have to settle for a point against 23rd-placed Walsall, who unexpectedly won at Charlton last week. There are only four points separating Macclesfield (10th) from Morecambe (20th) in League Two, so don’t be surprised if this match ends in deadlock. In the Scottish Premier League, Kilmarnock, who have not drawn at home, host Hearts, who have not drawn away. I predict both sequences to end. 


Away days: Tottenham can strengthen their claims for a Champions League place with victory at Aston Villa, who have struggled since Martin O’Neill’s departure. Norwich’s away form has elevated them into the Championship play-off positions and it is difficult to see relegation-threatened Crystal Palace stopping them. Hull are fancied to continue their improvement at the expense of managerless Sheffield United. In League One, Brentford (five away wins already) look too strong for bottom club Yeovil, and in League Two, Gillingham, who travel to Aldershot, are tipped to gain their fourth consecutive away victory.  


Homes sweet homes: Take a chance on Derby. Despite losing four matches in a row in the Championship, they have not played badly and can turn things around against Doncaster. Reading were one of the sides who beat Derby and maximum points are again likely when they play Bristol City. Leyton Orient are on the upgrade in League One and should be backed to defeat MK Dons, who do not travel well. Paul Ince’s Notts County are showing signs of coming into form, whereas Rochdale, their visitors, are on a downward spiral. County will leapfrog Rochdale if they win.                                    

Pools tips for this weekend December 18-19

Treble chance (home teams):  Birmingham, Blackpool, Ipswich, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Accrington, Gillingham, Oxford, Hearts. 


Best draws: Birmingham, Blackpool, Nottingham Forest, Gillingham, Hearts. 


Aways: Swansea, Sheffield Wednesday, Oldham, Southampton, Lincoln. 


Homes: Arsenal, Liverpool, West Bromwich, Leeds, Watford, Hartlepool, Swindon, Bury, Cheltenham.  


Pick of the draws: Apart from Fulham, no team has drawn more matches in the Premier League this season than Birmingham, and I can see them sharing the spoils again this weekend when inconsistent Newcastle visit St Andrew’s. Blackpool’s fine victory at Stoke last Saturday should inspire them to hold Tottenham, who have not kept a clean sheet in the league since the opening day of the season. Crystal Palace have an awful away record, but they are fighting hard to avoid relegation from the Championship and capable of taking a point off Nottingham Forest, who are underachieving. Gillingham are charging up the League Two table and I expect them to deny leaders Chesterfield at Priestfield Stadium. In the Scottish Premier League, Inverness Caledonian Thistle, who deservedly held Rangers last weekend, can maintain their unbeaten away record against in-form Hearts. 


Away days: Sheffield United are in turmoil, having lost their manager Gary Speed to the Wales job, and Championship promotion contenders Swansea are tipped to take advantage. Sheffield Wednesday, thriving under new ownership, have surged into the automatic League One promotion places and are a confident selection to win at Exeter. It’s worth backing Oldham to gain maximum points against an ailing MK Dons while Southampton can make amends for their surprising home defeat last Saturday by winning at lowly Walsall. Aldershot’s slump in League Two looks set to continue as Lincoln, perking up under new manager Steve Tillson, are the visitors. 


Homes sweet homes: Leeds are on a roll, having soared into the Championship play-off positions. After their comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at Burnley last Saturday, they must fancy their chances of toppling leaders Queens Park Rangers, who lost their unbeaten record to Watford last weekend. Hartlepool regularly punch above their weight in League One and could hand promotion-chasing Charlton their second consecutive league defeat. Swindon, who are still feeling sore about their FA Cup exit at the hands of non-League Crawley, will probably take it out on Tranmere. In League Two, third-placed Bury are fancied to end their run of home reverses against the League newcomers Stevenage. 

Pools tips for this weekend December 11-12

Treble chance (home teams): Stoke, Wolves, Burnley, Leicester, Oldham, Barnet, Chesterfield, Macclesfield, Dundee United, St Mirren. 


Best draws: Stoke, Wolves, Barnet, Chesterfield, Macclesfield. 


Aways: Liverpool, Manchester City, Derby, Cardiff, MK Dons. 


Homes: Bolton, Everton, Tottenham, Preston, Reading, Bournemouth, Carlisle, Charlton, Bradford City.  


Pick of the draws: Blackpool have won many friends with the way they have entertained this season and look good for a point at Stoke. Next-to-bottom Wolves are desperate for maximum points but their opponents, Birmingham, are resilient and can add to their five away draws. In League Two, Accrington are also away draw specialists, having been involved in seven stalemates on the road. They are tipped to make it eight at Barnet. Play-off contenders Torquay have lost only once on their travels. I expect them to collect a point at second-placed Chesterfield, who have lost their past two home matches. Two consecutive victories have enabled Gillingham to lose their away inferiority complex and they can hold Macclesfield. 


Away days: Newcastle have been rocked by the surprise sacking of manager Chris Hughton, whereas Liverpool have revived under Roy Hodgson, climbing to eighth place. I expect them to maintain their improvement at St James’ Park. Manchester City played their best football of the season when winning at Fulham two weeks ago and should repeat the dose against bottom club West Ham. Derby have dropped out of the Championship play-off places after two consecutive defeats, but I back them to return to winning ways at Bristol City. Promotion-chasing Cardiff have had a wobble but will probably steady themselves against relegation-threatened Middlesbrough. In League One, MK Dons to beat struggling Notts County, who are managed by former Dons boss Paul Ince. 


Homes sweet homes: I expect Bolton, flourishing under Owen Coyle, to defeat Blackburn, who are not the same force away from Ewood Park. Chelsea are losing ground in a fascinating Premier League title race and in-form Tottenham are in the mood to cash in at White Hart Lane. Preston, bottom of the Championship, are in desperate need of maximum points and will never have a better chance of getting them against Ipswich, who are in freefall, having lost their last five in the league. Middle-of-the-table Reading are fancied to dent the promotion ambitions of Coventry. 

Pools tips for this weekend December 4-5

Treble chance (home teams): Birmingham, Manchester City, Derby, Ipswich, Swindon, Accrington, Gillingham, Oxford, Inverness, St Johnstone. 


Best draws: Birmingham, Ipswich, Swindon, Gillingham, Oxford. 


Aways: Manchester United, Bournemouth, Southampton, Bradford City, Wycombe. 


Homes: Arsenal, West Bromwich, Coventry, Doncaster, Millwall, Portsmouth, Leyton Orient, Bury, Cheltenham. 


Pick of the draws: Tottenham are flying at the moment, but Birmingham are no pushover at St Andrew’s, as Chelsea found to their cost two weeks ago. Ipswich have lost four on the trot in the league, but I expect them to stop the rot by pinching a point off promotion challengers Swansea at Portman Road. Sheffield Wednesday are the form team in League One, but may find it hard to gain maximum points at Swindon, who are better than their lowly position suggests. In League Two, Gillingham have emerged from their slump and I’m tipping them to hold fifth-placed Rotherham. Next-to-bottom Barnet can take advantage of Oxford’s poor home form. 


Away days: League One Bournemouth to sustain their promotion challenge with victory at Bristol Rovers while Southampton should prove too strong for Hartlepool, despite the long journey to the north-east. In League Two, Aldershot are reeling from their FA Cup second-round exit at the hands of non-League Dover, so don’t be surprised if Bradford City cash in. Wycombe have been defeated only once on the road this season and are a confident selection to beat Crewe, who are making a habit of losing to the sides above them. 


Home sweet homes: West Bromwich Albion got back on the winning track in fine style at Everton last Saturday and should be victorious against Newcastle. Coventry, who have edged into the Championship play-offs, look to have too much in their locker for relegation-troubled Middlesbrough and I’m backing Millwall to add to Scunthorpe’s worries. Leyton Orient are just above the relegation zone in League One, but are playing well enough to surprise Carlisle. Chesterfield have lost confidence as well as the League Two leadership to Port Vale; third-placed Bury will be encouraged by that.

Pools tips for this weekend November 27-28

Treble chance (home teams):  Newcastle, Stoke, Barnsley, Burnley, Crystal Palace, Hamilton, Motherwell, Albion, Hucknall, Marine. 


Best draws: Newcastle, Stoke, Burnley, Hamilton, Motherwell. 


Aways: Sheffield United, Cardiff, Coventry, Rangers, Falkirk. 


Homes: Bolton, Everton, Fulham, West Ham, Norwich, Celtic, Hibernian, Ayr, Forfar. 


Pick of the draws: Premier League leaders Chelsea have lost three of their last four league matches and Newcastle, up one week, down the next, can take advantage of their lapse in form at St James’ Park. Stoke have gained maximum points from their last three games but I expect Manchester City, who won so convincingly at Fulham last Sunday, to check their progress. Derby, under Nigel Clough, are the most improved side in the Championship and playing well enough to hold Burnley at Turf Moor. The Scottish Premier League relegation scrap between bottom club Hamilton and third-from-bottom St Mirren looks like ending in stalemate, as does the match between Motherwell (5th) and Hearts (3rd).  


Away days: Sheffield United are moving clear of relegation trouble in the Championship and can continue their climb with victory at Bristol City, who are just above the drop zone themselves. I am taking second-placed Cardiff to end the unbeaten record of Championship leaders Queens Park Rangers. Cardiff have already won six away matches this season and another one on Saturday will see them overtake QPR. Coventry are strongly fancied to beat Scunthorpe, who struggle at home. Dundee United earned their draw at Celtic last Saturday but I cannot see them stopping Rangers, who have not dropped an away point all season. Falkirk are a confident selection to beat Morton in the Scottish First Division. 


Homes sweet homes: Everton played well in their 2-2 draw at Sunderland on Monday and appear too strong for West Bromwich Albion, who are in freefall. I expect Fulham to bounce straight back from their heavy defeat last Sunday when they host goal-shy Birmingham. Bottom club West Ham, in desperate need of three points for fear of being cast adrift, may benefit from a Wigan team weakened by suspensions. In the Championship, Norwich are the confident tip to win the East Anglian derby. Get on Hibernian to defeat St Johnstone in the Scottish Premier League. 

Pools Tips for this weekend November 20-21

Treble chance (home teams): Blackpool, Bolton, Bristol City, Doncaster, Norwich, Watford, Leyton Orient, Port Vale, Aberdeen, Inverness. 


Best draws: Blackpool, Bolton, Doncaster, Norwich, Aberdeen.


Aways: Aston Villa, Burnley, Oldham, Swindon, Carlisle. 


Homes: Liverpool, Manchester United, Cardiff, Derby, Hull, Charlton, Southampton, Barnet, Bradford.  


Pick of the draws: Wolves, next to bottom of the Premier League, have been especially poor on their travels, losing five of their six matches, but they visit Blackpool, who have struggled at home. Newcastle’s best results have come away from St James’ Park and they can collect another point at Bolton, despite the Lancashire club climbing to just outside the Champions League places. In the Championship, Doncaster v Swansea and Norwich v Leeds are fair bets to end in stalemate while in Scotland, I expect Premier League crisis club Aberdeen to be held by St Johnstone. 


Away days: Aston Villa’s youngsters gave Manchester United an almighty scare last Saturday and a repeat of that form should be enough to win at Blackburn. Championship promotion contenders Burnley are due an away victory, having drawn six games on the road this season, and could get it at Coventry, who have gone off the boil, losing their past two matches. In League One, promoted Rochdale are on the slide and Swindon are in the sort of form to take advantage. 


Homes sweet homes: Liverpool will be anxious to show that last Saturday’s setback at Stoke was a mere blip and they should be backed to see off West Ham. Relegation-threatened Hull gained a much-needed boost in the Championship by beating Preston last weekend, so take a chance on them doing the same to inconsistent Ipswich. Southampton are flying in League One after a sluggish start and they can overtake ailing Peterborough by beating them at St Mary’s. I have a hunch that League Two bottom club Barnet, encouraged by a fine draw at Torquay, will spring a surprise when they host Northampton. 

Pools Tips for this weekend November 13-14

Treble chance (home teams): Everton, West Ham, Wolves, Leicester, Carlisle, Peterborough, Northampton, Dunfermline, Partick, Queen of South.


Best draws: Wolves, Leicester, Carlisle, Peterborough, Dunfermline.


Aways: Liverpool, West Bromwich, MK Dons, Crewe, Aldershot.


Homes: Newcastle, Tottenham, Ipswich, Leeds, Millwall, Swansea, Swindon, Sheffield Wednesday, Hereford.


Pick of the draws: Lowly Wolves are playing better than their results suggest while their visitors, Bolton, are a more attractive and effective team these days. It all points to a stalemate. Leicester are making progress under new manager Sven Goran Eriksson and are tipped to hold Derby, who have soared into the Championship play-off places. In League One, Southampton have made rapid strides under former Scunthorpe boss Nigel Adkins and can gain a draw at Carlisle. Charlton have come alive in recent weeks and I expect them to share the spoils at fellow promotion contenders Peterborough. The Scottish First Division looks ripe for draws and Dunfermline (2nd) v Raith (1st) appears the best bet.


Away days: Liverpool have recovered well from their uncertain start to the season and they are a confident selection to beat Stoke. West Bromwich Albion have stumbled recently but can put that right at Wigan, who will do well to escape relegation. In League One, the handily placed MK Dons are due for a win on the road (six defeats out of seven) and may get it at inconsistent Brentford. In League Two, Crewe can take advantage of the crisis of confidence at Gillingham and Aldershot are worth a punt at Macclesfield.


Homes sweet homes: Newcastle to continue their Premier League climb at the expense of Fulham. Ipswich will probably have enough in the tank to beat Barnsley, who are brittle on their travels. Leeds have got to click at home sometime and should do so against Bristol City. Swindon, inspired by their terrific 4-0 victory at Plymouth in the FA Cup first round last Saturday, will feel confident of denting Colchester’s promotion prospects while Hereford, without a home win all season but enjoying a new lease of life, could surprise Cheltenham.

Pools Tips for this weekend November 6-7

Pick of the draws:  Birmingham are finding goals elusive while the Premier League’s bottom club, West Ham, made Arsenal work hard for victory at the Emirates last Saturday. I am expecting a low-scoring encounter at St Andrew’s and, on recent evidence, the Hammers should gain a point. In the Championship, Cardiff, the new leaders and the highest scorers, host third-placed Swansea, who have conceded less than a goal a game. Deadlock is the likeliest option. I am tipping fourth-placed Coventry to be held by mid-table Leeds, who are showing better form away, and Burnley to add to their five away draws at Norwich. In the Scottish First Division, Dundee, devastated by their 25-point penalty for going into administration, may find beating Partick beyond them.

Away days: Fast-improving Everton to win at Blackpool, who struggled at home to overcome nine-man West Bromwich Albion on Monday. In the Scottish Premier League, Dundee United will probably be too strong for Hamilton Academical, who have yet to record a home victory this season. I am taking Kilmarnock to follow up their 3-0 win at Hearts on Monday by coming out on top at St Johnstone. In the Second Division, I’m confident that Alloa will take advantage of East Fife’s indifferent home form.

Homes sweet homes: Blackburn were unlucky against Chelsea last Saturday and can make Wigan pay. Fulham played their best football of the season at home to Wigan and ought to have too much for a goal-shy Aston Villa. Back Bristol City to continue their revival against Preston. Cowdenbeath are still punching above their weight in the Scottish First Division and are tipped to beat Stirling. I have a hunch that Clyde will come good against East Stirling when the Third Division’s bottom two clubs meet. 

Treble chance (home teams): Birmingham, Liverpool, Cardiff, Coventry, Norwich, Inverness, Dundee, Arbroath, Elgin, Buxton.

Best draws: Birmingham, Cardiff, Coventry, Norwich, Dundee.

Aways: Everton, Dundee United, Kilmarnock, Rangers, Alloa.

Homes: Arsenal, Blackburn, Fulham, Manchester United, Barnsley, Bristol City, Celtic, Cowdenbeath, Clyde.

Pools tips for this weekend October 30-31

Pick of the draws: Liverpool looked more like their old selves when beating Blackburn at Anfield last Sunday and are tipped to hold Bolton at the Reebok. Watford’s excellent away form is keeping them in the Championship promotion hunt and I expect them to gain a point at mid-table Derby. Charlton, who stopped their slide in League One by winning a high-scoring thriller at Carlisle last Saturday, may have to settle for deadlock against a reviving Sheffield Wednesday while MK Dons can halt their losing away sequence at lowly Tranmere. In Scotland, Division One basement club Partick, who have yet to draw at home, host Cowdenbeath, who have yet to draw away. I predict a stalemate.


Away days: Manchester City’s 10 men did themselves proud in defeat by Arsenal last Sunday. Their 11 will surely be too strong for Wolves, who are next to bottom in the Premier League. Championship promotion contenders Swansea are a confident selection to increase the anxiety at Crystal Palace and in-form Brighton, the clear League One leaders, are worth a bet to beat one of their nearest challengers, Peterborough. In League Two, Bury are good travellers (four wins and a draw in six matches) and can prevail at Aldershot.


Homes sweet homes: Aston Villa, unlucky to lose at Sunderland last Saturday, to win the Midlands derby against Birmingham; Everton to continue their climb in the Premier League and send Stoke nearer the relegation zone; struggling,  Middlesbrough, now managed by Tony Mowbray, to come good against ailing Bristol City; Dagenham & Redbridge, who are bottom of League One, to spring a surprise against Hartlepool and Oldham to triumph over Plymouth. 


Treble chance (home teams): Bolton, Newcastle, Derby, Reading, Sheffield United, Charlton, Exeter, Tranmere, Dundee United, Partick.


Best draws: Bolton, Derby, Charlton, Tranmere, Partick.


Aways: Chelsea, Manchester City, Swansea, Brighton, Bury.


Homes: Arsenal, Aston Villa, Everton, Barnsley, Middlesbrough, Dagenham & Redbridge, Huddersfield, Oldham, Accrington.

Pools tips for this weekend October 23-24

Pick of the draws: The Premier League looks the best place for draws this weekend and Wigan v Bolton appears the soundest bet. Only two points separate the teams and both enjoyed good results last Saturday - Wigan drawing 2-2 at Newcastle and Bolton beating Stoke 2-1 at the Reebok. In the Championship, Portsmouth are beginning to thrive under Steve Cotterill and look good for at least a point at Hull, who have acquired the draw habit at home. Leeds and Cardiff, both genuine promotion challengers, are tipped to share the spoils at Elland Road. In League One, lowly Brentford can prevent high-flying Peterborough from taking maximum points. The Londoners are playing better than their 21st placing indicates. Colchester v Notts County is a mid-table tussle that will probably end in deadlock.

Away days: Blackpool’s away form (three wins already) is responsible for their encouraging start in the Premier League, so don’t be surprised if they add struggling Birmingham to their list of victims. Derby are the most improved team in the Championship and it’s worth taking a chance on them at Millwall. Have a punt on Huddersfield winning at shot-shy Plymouth and Bradford City to continue their revival with victory at Burton. League Two promotion hopefuls Port Vale should get back on the winning track at Cheltenham. 

Homes sweet homes: In-form West Bromwich are a confident selection to overcome Fulham. Coventry should send Barnsley packing while Watford can make up for their unexpected defeat at Portsmouth last Saturday with three points against Scunthorpe. Sheffield Wednesday are coming on strong and should be backed to beat fellow promotion contenders Bournemouth. In League Two, a revitalised Hereford, who host Accrington, look set for their first home win of the season. 

Treble chance (home teams): Sunderland, West Ham, Wigan, Hull, Leeds, Brentford, Colchester, Swindon, Kilmarnock, Queen of South.

Best draws: Wigan, Hull, Leeds, Brentford, Colchester.

Aways: Blackpool, Derby, Huddersfield, Bradford City, Port Vale.

Homes: Chelsea, West Bromwich, Coventry, Norwich, Watford, Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday, Bury, Hereford.

Pools tips for this weekend October 16-17

Pick of the draws: Chelsea could have their four-point lead in the Premier League reduced by Saturday evening if their opponents Aston Villa continue to prosper under new manager Gerard Houllier. Blackpool are more than holding their own in top-flight company and after winning at Anfield they can deny Manchester City victory at Bloomfield Road. Preston’s astonishing comeback from 4-1 down to win 6-4 at Leeds two weeks ago should enable them to gain a point at Derby, who have also improved. Southampton are fancied to confirm their progress under Nigel Adkins by drawing at Huddersfield.


Away days: Bottom club West Ham to win at next-to-bottom Wolves, who have fallen away after starting brightly. Championship promotion contenders Burnley are tipped to gain their first win on the road against Sheffield United. League One leaders Brighton were unlucky not to beat Bournemouth last Saturday. They can return to winning ways at Charlton, who have underachieved so far. Sheffield Wednesday look good for three points at Yeovil while In League Two, it’s worth backing Oxford (unbeaten away) to prevail at Macclesfield (weak at home).


Homes sweet homes: Back Bolton to record their first home win of the season when they entertain Stoke. Owen Coyle’s improving team are overdue a victory at the Reebok. Newcastle should make amends for recent home disappointments by defeating Wigan, who are notoriously fragile. Lowly Crystal Palace were unlucky to lose to Championship leaders Queens Park Rangers at Selhurst Park two weeks ago but can triumph against Millwall. Leyton Orient were also impressive in defeat at Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday and are a good bet to overcome Hartlepool. If Aldershot can win with 10 men at Oxford last Saturday then they should be capable of seeing off Morecambe.


Treble chance (home teams): Aston Villa, Blackpool, Fulham, Derby, Middlesbrough, Portsmouth, Bournemouth, Huddersfield, Southend, Dundee United.


Best draws: Aston Villa, Blackpool, Derby, Bournemouth, Huddersfield.


Aways: West Ham, Burnley, Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday, Oxford.


Homes: Arsenal, Bolton, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Ipswich, Leyton Orient, Peterborough, Aldershot, Shrewsbury.

Pools tips for this weekend October 9-10

Pick of the draws: Seventh-placed Wycombe are unbeaten away in League Two and are fancied to retain that record at Burton, who have yet to lose at home. Crewe, who have drawn their past two home matches, look likely to make it three in a row against Torquay, who rediscovered their form by drawing at Shrewsbury last weekend. Altrincham, although bottom of the Blue Square Bet Premier, have begun to pick up points and can hold Histon, who are also struggling. Promotion contenders Mansfield look good for a point at Rushden & Diamonds and AC Wimbledon are backed to share the spoils at Wrexham.


Away days: Peterborough to strengthen their League One promotion challenge by beating Hartlepool, who are weak at home. Similarly, Charlton could exploit Plymouth’s frailties at Home Park. Accrington are one of the surprise packets of the season. Having scored seven against Gillingham last Saturday, take a chance on them winning at Bury, who are one place higher in fifth. Grimsby, who are steadily climbing the Blue Square Bet Premier, should continue their progress with victory against middle-of-the-table Kidderminster.


Homes sweet homes: Sheffield Wednesday stopped the rot with a good win at Notts County and ought to account for lowly Leyton Orient at Hillsborough. Southampton are also on the upgrade and should be backed to defeat Tranmere. As I predicted, Barnet won the battle of the League Two strugglers against Hereford last Saturday and they can again collect maximum points against Bradford City, who just cannot get going. Have a gamble on France, under their new manager Laurent Blanc, to come good against Romania in the European Championship qualifier. 


Treble chance (home teams): Brentford, Burton, Crewe, Morecambe, Gateshead, Histon, Rushden & Diamonds, Wrexham, Lewes, Redditch.


Best draws: Burton, Crewe, Histon, Rushden & Diamonds, Wrexham.


Aways: Peterborough, Charlton, Accrington, Port Vale, Grimsby.


Homes: MK Dons, Rochdale, Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton, Barnet, Chesterfield, Rotherham, France, Buxton.

Pools tips for this weekend October 2-3

Pick of the draws: There is little to separate Stoke and Blackburn, who both had fine away wins at the weekend. They meet at the Britannia Stadium. Gerard Houllier has made a good start as Aston Villa’s manager and his team are tipped to nick a point at Tottenham, whose Premier League progress has been slowed by injuries. In the Championship, Leicester are in turmoil and will struggle to gain more than a draw at home to Scunthorpe, who tend to punch above their weight. Nigel Clough’s Derby must be in better heart after two wins in a row and can stop Swansea’s run of four consecutive home victories. In Scotland, Falkirk (third in Division One) v Cowdenbeath (fourth) is the most likely stalemate.

Away days: Although Everton have still to win in the Premier League, they are playing better than their lowly position suggests. They may get that bit of luck they need at Birmingham, who are due a setback at home after going a year unbeaten at St Andrew’s. Cardiff can strengthen their Championship promotion challenge by beating Barnsley while Norwich are expected to recover from their surprise home defeat by Hull with a victory at Bristol City. Free-scoring Watford are on course to make it four away wins out of five when they travel to Sheffield United. In League One, Swindon look capable of taking maximum points from their trip to Dagenham & Redbridge.

Homes sweet homes: West Ham can follow up last Saturday’s success over London rivals Tottenham by beating injury-troubled Fulham. Hull may have turned the corner with that away victory against Norwich last Saturday and can see off Coventry. Ground advantage should give Huddersfield the edge over Bristol Rovers in their League One clash while Plymouth ought to benefit from Hartlepool’s long, tiring journey to Devon. Put your faith in Barnet to win the battle of the League Two strugglers against Hereford.

Treble chance (home teams): Stoke, Tottenham, Doncaster, Leicester, Swansea, Southampton, Bradford City, Bury, St Johnstone, Falkirk.

Best draws: Stoke, Tottenham, Leicester, Swansea, Falkirk.

Aways: Everton, Cardiff, Norwich, Watford, Swindon.

Homes: Liverpool, West Ham, Hull, Huddersfield, Oldham, Plymouth, Accrington, Aldershot, Barnet.

Pools tips for this weekend 25-26 September

Pick of the draws: Premier League newcomers Blackpool have already suffered heavy defeats at Arsenal and Chelsea but will surely find Blackburn less formidable opponents at Bloomfield Road. In the Championship, Leeds will have their work cut out at Elland Road against Sheffield United, who are managed by the former Leeds player Gary Speed. Nottingham Forest have drawn all three of their home matches in their surprisingly sluggish start. Don't be surprised if they make it four against Swansea, who are tipped to gain their first away point of the season.  Scotland could provide its fair share of draws this weekend with Hamilton v Kilmarnock (Scottish Premier) and Cowdenbeath v Dundee (Scottish First) the most likely stalemates.


Away days: Ipswich are riding high in the Championship and will feel confident of handing Scunthorpe their third home defeat of the season. Huddersfield's remarkable second-half comeback against Yeovil took them to the top of League One. They are capable of staying there by winning at Swindon. Southend should be too strong for League Two strugglers Hereford while Bradford City are showing signs of emerging from their trough and can climb the table with victory at Northampton.


Homes sweet homes: Watford's 6-1 triumph at Millwall last Saturday was the result of the weekend and marks them out as Championship promotion contenders. They are overdue a home win and will probably get it against Gordon Strachan's Middlesbrough. In League One, Bristol Rovers have not done themselves justice so far but should rectify that when they entertain Notts County. Morecambe can make life more painful for bottom club Barnet. Stockport are on the upgrade and Aldershot have good reason to be apprehensive when they visit Edgeley Park.


Treble chance (home teams): Blackpool, Cardiff, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Rochdale, Rotherham, Hamilton, St Mirren, Cowdenbeath, Raith.


Best draws: Blackpool, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Hamilton, Cowdenbeath.


Aways: Tottenham, Ipswich, Huddersfield, Southend, Bradford City.


Homes: Birmingham, Coventry, Derby, Norwich, Watford, Bristol Rovers, Crewe, Morecambe, Stockport.

Pools tips for this weekend 18-19 September

Pick of the draws:  Fulham, even without their injured England striker Bobby Zamora, are a good bet to maintain their unbeaten record at Blackburn. Mark Hughes, the Fulham manager, will be doubly determined to do well on his return to his old club. Reading have yet to lose on the road in the Championship and should keep that run going at Middlesbrough, who have been mediocre. 

Rochdale are surprising everybody in League One, where they are unbeaten away. They are tipped to keep that record intact at MK Dons. Although Southampton have been boosted by the appointment of former Scunthorpe boss Nigel Adkins as manager, they will probably have to settle for a point against Colchester at St Mary’s. Two high-scoring teams in League Two, Burton and Crewe, meet in what is likely to be another stalemate.

Away days: Manchester City’s performances have been better than their results so far. They can rectify that at lowly Wigan on Sunday. Newly promoted Dagenham & Redbridge are finding life tough in League One and visiting Bristol Rovers are not expected to show any sympathy. Table-topping and free-scoring Peterborough can enhance their promotion credentials with victory at Exeter. Bournemouth are worth a punt at Oldham while in League Two Gillingham will be confident of gaining that long-awaited away win against out-of-sorts Bradford City.

Homes sweet homes: Everton’s marvellous comeback against Manchester United at Goodison Park should inspire them to their first win of the season against Newcastle. West Bromwich finished strongly in their draw against Tottenham last Saturday and a repeat of that form would see them end Birmingham’s unbeaten run. Take a chance on Hull upsetting Nottingham Forest while Swansea, formidable on their own ground, are fancied to beat managerless Scunthorpe. In League Two, Chesterfield, who host Cheltenham, are a good bet to make it four home wins out of four.

Treble chance (home teams): Blackburn, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Preston, MK Dons, Plymouth, Southampton, Barnet, Burton, Dundee.

Best draws: Blackburn, Middlesbrough, MK Dons, Southampton, Burton.

Aways: Manchester City, Bristol Rovers, Peterborough, Bournemouth, Gillingham.

Homes: Everton, Tottenham, West Bromwich, Barnsley, Hull, Swansea, Bury, Chesterfield, Oxford.

Pools tips for this weekend 11-12 September

Pick of the draws: Manchester United have begun well but Everton beat them convincingly at Goodison Park last season and, despite a poor start in the Premier League, are capable of holding them to a draw at the same venue this time. A draw is also within Blackpool's reach at Newcastle, with both promoted teams showing signs that they may survive in a higher division.
            
Notts County have come alive in League One and can continue their improvement at Charlton, who have lost two in a row. I have a hunch that Oldham, who are thriving under new manager Paul Dickov, will end Peterborough's 100 per cent home record, while in League Two don't be surprised if Barnet, who got off the mark in style against Cheltenham last Saturday, gain their first away point of the season at Lincoln.


Away days: Ipswich are worth backing to add to Portsmouth's gloom. Huddersfield, last season's League One play-off semi-finalists, should have too much firepower for Leyton Orient. Tranmere, who were surprising 1-0 winners over Peterborough last Saturday, are equipped to carry on the good work at Yeovil, who have slipped into the relegation zone. An improving Oxford are strongly fancied to beat Hereford, who have not won since the opening day of the season.


Homes sweet homes: Fulham to halt the early progress of Wolves at Craven Cottage. Scunthorpe's impressive home form should account for Bristol City, who are struggling to adjust to the sudden departure of manager Steve Coppell. Promoted Rochdale have surprised a few people and can continue their climb up League One by defeating Walsall. Swindon, 3-0 winners against deflated Southampton in the Johnstone Paints Trophy last week, are a good bet to do it again when they meet in the league.


Treble chance (home teams): Birmingham, Everton, Newcastle, Brighton, Charlton, Peterborough, Cheltenham, Lincoln, Dundee United, Dunfermline.


Best draws: Everton, Newcastle, Charlton, Peterborough, Lincoln.


Aways: Chelsea, Ipswich, Huddersfield, Tranmere, Oxford.


Homes: Fulham, Manchester City, Cardiff, Leeds, Scunthorpe, Bournemouth, Colchester, Rochdale, Swindon.

Arsenal's World Cup analysis Gunflash 540

Eleven Gunners were represented at this summer’s World Cup in South Africa and the one with the biggest smile at the end of it was midfield maestro Cesc Fabregas, who played a significant part in Spain lifting the Jules Rimet trophy for the first time. The Arsenal captain played the last 35 minutes of the final against Holland. During that period he missed a chance to break the deadlock when one-on-one with Holland’s goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg but typically made amends by creating the winner for Andres Iniesta four minutes from the end of extra time. 


It was somehow appropriate that a mediocre tournament should end with a sterile, ill-tempered match. The harassed English referee Howard Webb issued 13 yellow cards - easily a record for a World Cup final - the second of which led to John Heitinga’s dismissal in extra time, but the red card should have come out far earlier than it did. Holland’s Nigel de Jong and Mark van Bommel committed terrible first-half fouls which deserved instant dismissal but one suspects Webb was under considerable pressure from FIFA’s top brass to keep 22 players on the pitch for as long as possible in this football showpiece.


Arsenal’s Robin van Persie was the first to be carded for a rash foul and his evening failed to improve. Playing as a lone striker, the Dutchman hardly touched the ball for the first 20 minutes and he was forced to feed off scraps for the entire match. I cannot recall a scoring chance falling to Van Persie over the 120 minutes, which was an indictment of the negative way Holland played. Although Holland won every game apart from the final, it was a frustrating tournament for Van Persie, who scored only once - against Cameroon -and was never seen at his best. The Dutch were only four minutes away from taking the final into a penalty shoot-out but this cynical team were not a patch on the sides of 1974 and 1978 who entranced everybody but ultimately lost those World Cup finals to West Germany and Argentina respectively. Sadly, they did not deserve to make it third time lucky. Even their 1970s Dutch legend Johan Cruyff deplored their tactics and said he was pleased Spain won. At least Holland were responsible for one of the goals of the tournament which came from their 35-year-old captain and former Arsenal defender Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who scored from 35 yards in their 3-2 semi-final victory against Uruguay. He would love to have repeated the feat against Spain, his final bow before retiring.


The Spaniards, the pre-tournament favourites, deservedly added the World Cup to their European title of two years ago. They are a fine side, if slightly over-praised by some of the pundits. I do not think they are as appealing or as exciting as the team who won the European Championship in 2008. Fabregas was not first choice for them then and he was not first choice for them here. My view is that Spain would have won both trophies more convincingly if Fabregas had played more often. He is as creative as the Barcelona trio and fellow midfielders Xabi Alonso, Xavi Hernandez and Iniesta and more of a goal threat, as his 19 strikes for Arsenal last season suggest. Spain scored only eight goals in their seven matches, the last four of which ended 1-0. They remind me of Arsenal in many ways. Technically gifted, dominating possession but lacking width and a cutting edge. Their shooting seldom equalled their approach play and it was interesting that for all their fluency against Germany in the semi-finals - probably their best performance - their winning goal came from a corner fiercely headed home by Carles Puyol. 


Nicklas Bendtner was hindered by a groin injury throughout the tournament but still made his mark. He netted in Denmark’s 2-1 victory over Cameroon in the group stage, and it was his fine pass that led to Dennis Rommedahl’s spectacular second-half winner. Bendtner’s tournament ended when Japan defeated the Danes 3-1 in their final group game. 


Cameroon were another country who failed to clear the first hurdle. It might have been different if they had picked Alex Song in their first match against Japan. Instead, Song was confined to the substitutes’ bench as Cameroon lost 1-0 and by the time he did play - against Denmark - they were facing an uphill battle to qualify. Cameroon were the only country who lost every game in the World Cup.


Emmanuel Eboue did his utmost for Ivory Coast but his and his country’s cause was not helped by the negative mindset of manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, especially in their goalless draw with Portugal in the group stage. 


Philippe Senderos, who has since joined Fulham on a free transfer, was still an Arsenal player when the tournament started but he was injured during Switzerland’s startling 1-0 victory over Spain in their opening group match and did not take any further part. That proved to be the high point for Switzerland, for they went on to lose to Chile and were held to a goalless draw by Honduras.


Carlos Vela, the Mexico forward, was another injury victim and disappointed not to be more involved in their campaign, which ended in the round of 16 when they were beaten 3-1 by Argentina.


France was one of the few countries who did worse than England, so it was a World Cup to forget for Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Abou Diaby and Gael Clichy, although Clichy spent most of his time on the subs’ bench. The hostility between the French players and manager Raymond Domenech boiled over and the ill-feeling was reflected in their listless displays against Uruguay, Mexico and South Africa. When former Arsenal striker  Nicolas Anelka was sent home after a row with Domenech, it looked as if most of the French players wanted to follow him. France finished bottom of their group but were only participating in the World Cup finals because Thierry Henry’s blatant handball which led to the winning goal against the Republic of Ireland in qualifying was not spotted by the referee or the linesman. A great pity, for the Irish would have made far worthier finalists. 


The reputations of two Arsenal players, Theo Walcott, of England, and Samir Nasri, of France, were enhanced by not going to the World Cup. I was one of those who felt that Walcott had not shown enough consistency to earn selection by manager Fabio Capello, but England made such a mess of things that he could scarcely have done worse than any of the first-choice players. Nasri, like Walcott, was downcast after being surprisingly excluded from a French party of 23 to South Africa but must have had mixed feelings after watching his colleagues implode. 


England looked worryingly vulnerable and disjointed in warm-up matches against Mexico and Japan and the feeling that the team had gone backwards since the end of qualifying was confirmed when the World Cup began in earnest. England and Capello fouled up big-time, failing to top a group that included the United States, Slovenia and Algeria and playing rubbish in the process. If England had beaten Algeria or the United States or scored one more goal against Slovenia they would not have had to face the vibrant Germans in the round of 16. However, England played so badly against Germany that they would probably have been defeated by Ghana if the group had turned out differently. 


What sank Capello, who is lucky to still be in a job, was not so much opting for a rigid 4-4-2 as relying on players who were not match fit. Ledley King and Gareth Barry ought to have been left at home while Wayne Rooney was so dire that it was hard to believe he was not hampered by an injury sustained a few months previously. The biggest embarrassment was when Emile Heskey was sent on against Germany with about 15 minutes left and England losing 4-1. Capello’s decision reminded me of 1992 when Graham Taylor took Gary Lineker off with England needing to score against Sweden to stay in the European Championship. That proved to be the beginning of the end of Taylor’s time as England manager. Could Capello suffer a similar fate?


World Cup 2010 will be remembered for the unpopular Jabulani ball and the endlessly irritating vuvuzela. The tournament also saw big-name players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Fernando Torres, Kaka, Rooney, and Steven Gerrard flop. One of the best matches was the third-place fixture between Germany and Uruguay - a game which few felt the World Cup needed. The absence of fear, however, encouraged both teams to be adventurous and it was difficult to recall one backward pass. If only the same could have been said for the rest of the competition. Instead, safety-first proliferated and some countries, notably Greece, Switzerland and Portugal, seemed frightened to cross the halfway line. Incidentally, New Zealand, the World Cup outsiders, were the only country to go home undefeated. Funny old game eh?

Pools tips for this weekend 4-5 September

Pick of the draws:  Rochdale are adapting well following their promotion to League One and will fancy their chances of getting something at Southampton, who may be in some disarray after their manager Alan Pardew was surprisingly sacked this week. Bradford City have made a faltering start to their campaign in League Two but can regain some pride by holding Port Vale at home. A draw is also the most likely result when second-placed Shrewsbury host third-placed Rotherham. Neither have lost in the league this season and I expect it to stay that way. Don't be surprised if the League Two leaders Torquay drop their first points of the season at Southend, who have shown a marked improvement in the past week, taking Wolves to extra time in the Carling Cup at Molineux and beating Bradford City away.


Away days: Charlton lost at Huddersfield last Saturday but are tipped to bounce straight back by winning at Exeter, who look to be in for a long, hard winter. It's high time Gillingham ended their barren run on their travels. They have not won away for more than a year but can put that right at Bury, who are erratic at home. In the Blue Square Premier, Kidderminster are a good bet to worsen the plight of bottom club Altrincham, for whom nothing goes right.


Homes sweet homes: Notts County recovered from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 at Bournemouth last Saturday  and are fancied to go one better against Yeovil. In League Two, Macclesfield should make home advantage count against fellow strugglers Stockport, while in the Blue Square Premier, Cambridge United, who sent Eastbourne home pointless on Monday, can do the same to Gateshead. Hayes & Yeading, who gained a creditable point at promotion favourites Luton on Monday, should see off struggling Histon.


Treble chance (home teams):  Dagenham & Redbridge, Southampton, Bradford, Oxford, Shrewsbury, Southend, Newport, York, Corby, Worcester.


Best draws: Southampton, Bradford, Shrewsbury, Southend, York.


Aways: Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton, Cheltenham, Gillingham, Kidderminster.


Homes: Huddersfield, Notts County, Oldham, Walsall, Aldershot, Macclesfield, Cambridge, Hayes & Yeading, Mansfield.

Pools tips for this weekend 28-29 August

Pick of the draws: Two well-matched teams, Bolton and Birmingham, have made encouraging starts to the season in the Premier League and I expect them to cancel each other out at the Reebok stadium on Sunday. Derby have suffered three consecutive defeats since their opening-day victory at Leeds, yet Nigel Clough's side are no soft touch at home and capable of holding top-of-the-table Queens Park Rangers. Burnley appear to have no hangover from last season's relegation and can collect a point at Swansea, who tend to blow hot and cold. Sheffield Wednesday (at Hartlepool) and Football League newcomers Stevenage (at Aldershot) are also tipped to share the spoils.


Away days: Free-scoring Arsenal are in the mood and well equipped to avenge last season's defeat at Blackburn. Newcastle, fresh from their six-goal hammering of Aston Villa, are worth a flutter at Wolves, while Cardiff, boosted by the loan signing of Craig Bellamy, should be too strong for struggling Portsmouth. Rotherham, who scored seven against Cheltenham last Saturday, won't need nearly as many goals to defeat Hereford.


Homes sweet homes: Expect lowly Sheffield United, under new manager Gary Speed, to gain their first win of the season against Preston in the Championship. In League One, get on Brentford, buoyed by their Carling Cup victory over Hull, to conquer Rochdale. Gus Poyet's Brighton seem in better shape now and are backed to confirm their improvement against Walsall. Leyton Orient earned a creditable point at Southampton last Saturday, which should give them the confidence to beat Exeter.


Treble chance (home teams) : Bolton, Barnsley, Derby, Swansea, Watford, Bristol Rovers, Hartlepool, MK Dons, Aldershot, St Mirren.


Best draws: Bolton, Derby, Swansea, Hartlepool, Aldershot.


Aways: Arsenal, Newcastle, Cardiff, Peterborough, Rotherham.


Homes: Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham, Ipswich, Sheffield United, Brentford, Brighton, Leyton Orient.

Pools tips for this weekend 21-22 August

Pick of the draws: West Ham were heavily beaten at Aston Villa last Saturday but they are a different proposition at home and tipped to share the spoils with Bolton. Promoted Millwall have got off to a real flyer in the Championship - top of the table, two wins out of two, seven goals scored and none conceded - but Leeds, who were also promoted, can check their progress at Elland Road.


In League One, Oldham have won their opening two matches under their new manager Paul Dickov, which should give them the confidence to get something at Charlton, who have also started with a couple of victories. By contrast, Notts County are struggling - two defeats, no goals scored and six conceded - but they can stop the rot at home to Dagenham & Redbridge.


Away days: Tottenham deserved better than a goalless draw against Manchester City last Saturday when only England keeper Joe Hart stood between them and a handsome victory. And despite Tottenham's sloppy display against Young Boys of Berne in the Champions League, I suspect that they will have too much for Stoke, who were disappointing in defeat at Wolves. Bristol Rovers are fancied to win at Exeter, who are reeling from the tragic death from bowel cancer of their striker Adam Stansfield. Also in League One, Bournemouth, who put five past Peterborough last Saturday, should keep up the good work at Tranmere.


Homes sweet homes: Have a flutter on Bristol City, making light of Steve Coppell's sudden departure as manager, to beat Barnsley. Norwich returned to winning ways with a last-minute goal against Scunthorpe last Saturday and can collect another three points against Swansea, who are often meek on their travels. Play-off losers Nottingham Forest have made a stuttering start to the season and Reading look a good bet to add to their problems. Brian McDermott's side expect to be promotion contenders.


Treble chance (home teams): West Bromwich, West Ham, Leeds, Preston, Charlton, Notts County, Yeovil, Bury, St Johnstone, Morton.


Best draws: West Ham, Leeds, Preston, Charlton, Notts County.


Aways: Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea, Bristol Rovers, Bournemouth.


Homes: Arsenal, Everton, Bristol City, Norwich, Queens Park Rangers, Reading, Southampton, Accrington, Chesterfield.