Pools tips and best bets for weekend of January 2-3

 Ten draws: Tottenham v Leeds, Birmingham v Blackburn, Huddersfield v Reading, Stoke v Bournemouth, Shrewsbury v Crewe, Barrow v Exeter, Leyton Orient v Salford, Walsall v Carlisle, Aberdeen v Dundee United, Rangers v Celtic.

Best draws: Tottenham v Leeds, Shrewsbury v Crewe, Leyton Orient v Salford, Aberdeen v Dundee United, Rangers v Celtic.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Leicester, Arsenal, Lincoln, Oxford, Wigan, St Johnstone.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Crystal Palace, Brentford, Luton, Norwich, Preston, Forest Green, Newport, Stevenage, Hibernian, Montrose.

Pick of the draws: Leeds are not flattered by their 11th placing in the Premier League and that 5-0 midweek away win at West Bromwich Albion was a huge boost. They can take a point off Tottenham, who are without a win from their past four league fixtures. Shrewsbury are steadily climbing League One  but Crewe, their visitors, are unbeaten in their last six. Leyton Orient returned to winning ways in League Two with a 2-0 midweek victory over bottom club Southend but Salford, who are eyeing promotion, should provide tougher opposition. Dundee United have recently come conjured two last-minute equalisers against Hibernian (away) and Motherwell (home) in the Scottish Premiership, which ought to bolster their belief when they travel to Aberdeen. There are signs that Celtic are regaining their mojo and I believe they'll hold runaway leaders Rangers in the Old Firm derby at Ibrox.

Away days: If Leicester can beat Tottenham away 2-0 then a Sunday trip to Newcastle won't hold any fears. A crisis at Arsenal has been averted by consecutive wins over Chelsea (home) and Brighton (away). They'll be disappointed not to make it three in a row on Saturday at struggling West Brom, who were thrashed at home by Leeds in midweek. Free-scoring League One leaders Lincoln are highly recommended at Wimbledon, as are improving Oxford, who will surely prevail at bottom club Burton. Wigan have at last climbed off the foot of the table and are in better form than hosts Swindon, who have slipped below them. In the Scottish Premiership I reckon St Johnstone will leave Ross deeper in the mire.

Homes sweet homes: Luton are still punching above their weight in the Championship and I fancy them to take another three points at the expense of disappointing Queens Park Rangers. Successive victories have sent Preston into the top half of the table and they have another winnable game against goal-shy Nottingham Forest. League Two strugglers Stevenage gained a badly needed three points at home to Cambridge in midweek and I think they'll follow that up by defeating Scunthorpe.

Pools info: Peterborough v Doncaster (No.26 on coupon), Rochdale v MK Dons (28) and Bradford City v Morecambe (33) have been postponed because of Covid and will be assessed by the pools panel.

I correctly forecast the following six draws last weekend: Leicester v Manchester United (2-2), Wolves v Tottenham (1-1), Coventry v Stoke (0-0), Exeter v Forest Green (1-1), Crawley v Newport (1-1) and Dundee United v Motherwell (1-1). 

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 26-27

Ten draws: Leicester v Manchester United, Wolves v Tottenham, Cardiff v Brentford, Coventry v Stoke, Doncaster v Accrington, Cambridge v Leyton Orient, Crawley v Newport, Exeter v Forest Green, Dundee United v Motherwell, Kilmarnock v Livingston.

Best draws: Leicester v Manchester United, Cardiff v Brentford, Doncaster v Accrington, Cambridge v Leyton Orient, Exeter v Forest Green.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Chelsea, Southampton, Swansea, Celtic, St Mirren, Notts County.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, Derby, Nottingham Forest, Reading, Blackpool, Lincoln, Southend, Rangers.

Pick of the draws: Manchester United were scintillating when beating Leeds 6-2 at home last Sunday and their marvellous form on the road in the Premier League (six wins out of seven) should serve them well at second-placed Leicester, who find it harder to win at home than away. Brentford, Championship promotion candidates and League Cup semi-finalists, are formidable opponents and they'll be disappointed not to get anything out of their trip to Cardiff. Doncaster and Accrington are two unfashionable League One sides who are in promotion contention and this fixture looks one of the best draws on the coupon. Cambridge have fallen away in League Two after occupying the promotion positions and I'm tipping Leyton Orient to come away with a point. Forest Green's climb into second place is no fluke and I fancy them to hold free-scoring Exeter.

Away days: Chelsea have lost their past two Premier League away matches to Everton (1-0) and Wolves (2-1) but they will surely end that sequence against Arsenal, who are in an alarming downward spiral. The crisis-torn Gunners are 15th, having not won in the league since early November. Southampton should have too much flair and firepower for lowly Fulham while Swansea, who are third in the Championship, will be confident of prevailing at struggling Queens Park Rangers. Celtic have a lot of ground to make up on Rangers, who are runaway leaders in the Scottish Premiership, but can make a start by defeating second-from-bottom Hamilton. St Mirren are going in the right direction and are recommended at bottom club Ross. I believe Notts County will strengthen their promotion hopes in the National League by winning at King's Lynn.

Homes sweet homes: Derby are at last perking up in the Championship and three points against inconsistent Preston are a distinct possibility. Nottingham Forest, like Derby, ought to be higher than they are and will be looking for a maximum haul against Birmingham, who seem capable of losing to anybody. Although Southend prop up League Two, their recent improvement has been noted and they have a fighting chance of victory against mid-table Colchester.

Pools info: Bournemouth v Millwall (No.13 on coupon), Gillingham v Peterborough (27), Ipswich v Northampton (28) and Sunderland v Hull (33) have been postponed because of the Covid crisis and will be assessed by the pools panel.

  

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 19-20

Ten draws: Newcastle v Fulham, Southampton v Manchester City, Huddersfield v Watford, Millwall v Nottingham Forest, Accrington v Blackpool, Wimbledon v Crewe, Rochdale v Gillingham, Forest Green v Carlisle, Grimsby v Scunthorpe, Walsall v Port Vale.

Best draws: Newcastle v Fulham, Accrington v Blackpool, Wimbledon v Crewe, Forest Green v Carlisle, Walsall v Port Vale.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Coventry, Doncaster, Lincoln, Queen's Park.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Brighton, Norwich, Swansea, Wycombe, Fleetwood, Plymouth, Bolton, Bradford City, Leyton Orient, Hibernian.

Pick of the draws: Fulham have made significant strides recently and their display in last Sunday's 1-1 home draw with Liverpool revived hopes that they will avoid a quick return to the Championship. They can pinch a point at Newcastle, although Steve Bruce's sides should never be underestimated. Accrington and Blackpool, who meet in League One on Saturday, are bang in form and go into their clash on the back of midweek victories - Accrington 2-0 at Gillingham, Blackpool 3-2 at home to high-flyers Hull. Crewe, with three wins and a draw in their last four league matches, have moved into the top half of the table and look good for a share of the spoils at Wimbledon. Promotion-chasing Forest Green and Carlisle are very evenly matched in League Two and hard to separate. There are signs that Port Vale have arrested their slump and I'm taking them to hold Walsall.

Away days: Despite their creditable midweek away draw against Manchester City, West Brom are in turmoil near the foot of the Premier League, which gives Aston Villa an ideal opportunity for another three points on the road. Bournemouth are a sound bet for an instant return to the top flight and are recommended at mid-table Luton. Sheffield Wednesday's expected revival under Tony Pulis has not materialised. They are still rooted to the bottom of the Championship and Coventry should take advantage. Consecutive home wins have put Doncaster in the League One play-off positions and they appear to have a fairly straightforward task at bottom club Burton. Although Lincoln's promotion surge has stalled with two successive home defeats, I still fancy them to overcome ailing Northampton. Queen's Park, the Scottish League Two leaders, are unbeaten after eight matches and will be confident of prevailing at Annan.

Homes sweet homes: Championship strugglers Wycombe gave second-placed Bournemouth a fright in midweek, despite going down to 10 men, and they are well worth a punt against goal-shy Queens Park Rangers. In League One, Plymouth's terrible run of six consecutive losses has to end sometime and I think it will when they host MK Dons. Bradford City's plight - third from last in League Two - has been most unexpected. I'll be surprised if their woeful form continues and their fightback could start against Cambridge on Saturday.

Pools info: I scored eight out of ten home wins last weekend. The eight were Leicester, Southampton, Bournemouth, Bristol Rovers, Peterborough, Carlisle, Morecambe and Celtic.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 12-13

Ten draws: Wolves v Aston Villa, Derby v Stoke, Nottingham Forest v Brentford, Doncaster v Gillingham, Ipswich v Portsmouth, Lincoln v Sunderland, Swindon v Fleetwood, Forest Green v Cambridge, Salford v Cheltenham, St Johnstone v Livingston.

Best draws: Wolves v Aston Villa, Derby v Stoke, Ipswich v Portsmouth, Lincoln v Sunderland, Salford v Cheltenham.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Tottenham, Liverpool, Watford, Accrington, Rangers, Hibernian.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Leicester, Southampton, Bournemouth, Cardiff, Blackpool, Bristol Rovers, Peterborough, Carlisle, Morecambe, Celtic.

Pick of the draws: Wolves were beaten 4-0 by Liverpool at Anfield last Sunday and it could have been more. However, Aston Villa have also slipped up recently and stalemate looks the likeliest outcome. Derby's 1-0 win at Millwall last weekend lifted them off the foot of the Championship table but they face a Stoke side who are contesting the play-off places. However, they have shown enough improvement under Wayne Rooney's interim management to gain a draw. Portsmouth are coming on strong in League One and will fancy their chances of at least a point at Ipswich, even though Ipswich came from a goal down to win 2-1 at Plymouth last Saturday. I believe Sunderland have made a good managerial appointment in Lee Johnson. They face a tough test at second-placed Lincoln, which I think they'll pass. Cheltenham, strong promotion contenders in League Two, may have to settle for a share of the spoils at Salford, who will probably be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.

Away days: Premier League leaders Tottenham are the pride of London at the moment and should account for Crystal Palace, although Palace scored five at West Brom last Sunday. Liverpool, having crushed Leicester (3-0) and Wolves (4-0) at Anfield, won't fear a trip to Fulham, who are just above the relegation zone. Watford regained their composure and third place with a midweek 2-0 home victory over Rotherham in the Championship and I reckon they'll have too much for goal-shy Birmingham. In League One, Accrington, now lying seventh, continue to confound the pundits and are recommended at bottom club Wigan. Rangers, 11 points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership, look banker material at Dundee United and Hibernian will also start firm favourites at Hamilton.

Homes sweet homes: Cardiff, with four consecutive Championship wins behind them, have the momentum and I'm tipping them to see off Swansea in the Welsh derby. Bristol Rovers are finding the net again under Paul Tisdale's managership, having beaten non-League Darlington 6-0 in the FA Cup second round and put four past Wimbledon last weekend. They are worth a punt against Plymouth, who are fading fast. Neil Lennon is coming under intense pressure at Celtic, who are out of the Europa League and are way behind Rangers in the Scottish Premiership. Despite all the speculation and unrest, I believe they'll stop the rot against Kilmarnock on Sunday.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 5-6

Ten draws: Chelsea v Leeds, West Brom v Crystal Palace, Stoke v Middlesbrough, Watford v Cardiff, Wimbledon v Bristol Rovers, Fleetwood v Blackpool, Cambridge v Oldham, Cheltenham v Exeter, Mansfield v Crawley, St Mirren v Aberdeen.

Best draws: Chelsea v Leeds, Watford v Cardiff, Wimbledon v Bristol Rovers, Cheltenham v Exeter, Mansfield v Crawley.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Everton, Manchester United, Doncaster, Charlton, Salford, Kilmarnock.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Manchester City, Tottenham, Bristol City, Coventry, Reading, Swansea, Accrington, Sunderland, Bolton, Newport.

Pick of the draws: Leeds' 12th position in the Premier League looks false judging by the way they played when drawing with Arsenal at home and defeating Everton away. I expect their enterprising, attacking style to test Chelsea, despite the Londoners occupying third place on merit. At first glance Watford's task against Cardiff in the Championship on Saturday seems a straightforward affair but Cardiff recorded resounding home victories over Luton last Saturday and Huddersfield in midweek and may prove difficult to beat. Wimbledon's FA Cup exit at the hands of League Two Crawley last Sunday wasn't the best preparation for the visit of Bristol Rovers, who went on a goal spree against Darlington. League Two high-fliers Cheltenham and Exeter meet on Saturday. Both won in midweek and both reached the FA Cup third round last weekend by eliminating supposedly superior opponents. Crawley's reliable away form should serve them well at lowly Mansfield but the hosts have been boosted by Nigel Clough's appointment as manager.

Away days: Burnley look set for a long, hard winter. Manchester City put five past them last Saturday, so this is a golden opportunity for Everton to get back on the winning track. Manchester United's away record this season is outstanding. Recent wins have come at Everton and Southampton, the latter after going in at the interval 2-0 down, so they are in the mood to add West Ham to their list of victims. In League One, Doncaster seem on the upgrade and well equipped to take three points at Northampton. The same goes for fourth-placed Charlton, who visit struggling Shrewsbury. I believe Salford will improve their League Two promotion prospects by beating Barrow and Kilmarnock will surely rate their chances at bottom club Hamilton in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Tottenham beat Arsenal at home towards the end of last season and now that they are Premier League leaders will be confident of doing the same on Sunday. An ailing Arsenal badly need a good result but it's hard to see them getting it against Jose Mourinho's Spurs. Late away goals in their past two Championship games have helped Coventry in their fight to avoid relegation. The goals gained 1-1 draws at Norwich and Derby and I think they'll go one better on Saturday by beating Rotherham. Bolton have put their nightmare start to the season behind them in League Two and I expect Port Vale, their opponents, to suffer.

Pools info: The Friday match between Aston Villa v Newcastle (No 1 on coupon) has been postponed  because of the coronavirus and will go down as void. Brighton v Southampton (2) is being played on Monday and will be assessed by the pools panel.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of November 28-29

Ten draws: Chelsea v Tottenham, Everton v Leeds, West Bromwich v Sheffield United, Birmingham v Millwall, Huddersfield v Middlesbrough, Reading v Bristol City, Carlisle v Doncaster, Plymouth v Lincoln, Livingston v Ayr, Albion v Stirling.

Best draws: Chelsea v Tottenham, Everton v Leeds, Reading v Bristol City, Carlisle v Doncaster, Livingston v Ayr.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Liverpool, Bournemouth, Oldham, Hull, Dunfermline, Stranraer.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Manchester City, Southampton, Derby, Norwich, Watford, Bolton, Bristol Rovers, Gillingham, Stockport, Queen's Park.

Pick of the draws: Premier League leaders Tottenham, conquerors of Manchester City last Saturday, and third-placed Chelsea are two of the in-form sides in the top flight. Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, who played under Jose Mourinho when both were at Stamford Bridge, won't want to be outsmarted by his old boss and deadlock is the most likely outcome. Everton returned to winning ways at Fulham but will probably find Leeds tougher opponents. Fourteenth position does not do Leeds justice and they were unlucky not to beat Arsenal last Sunday. I'm taking third-placed Bristol City to come away with something at Reading, who have fallen from first to sixth in the Championship. League One Doncaster will start favourites at Carlisle in the FA Cup second round but I'm tipping Carlisle, sixth in League Two, to take the tie to extra time and penalties. In the Scottish League Cup, Ayr, who are doing well in the Championship, could easily deny Premiership strugglers Livingston victory.

Away days: It's impossible to ignore the claims of Liverpool at Brighton in the Saturday lunchtime game. The Merseysiders, despite being without several injured players last Sunday, swept Leicester aside and I expect them to do something similar to Brighton. Bournemouth, in second place, have lost only once in the Championship this season and I can't see Rotherham threatening that record. Oldham have recorded two consecutive away wins in League Two. In the FA Cup on Saturday they go to Bradford City, where I think they'll make it three. There's no stopping League One leaders Hull at the moment and they'll be confident of FA Cup success at League Two Stevenage. Dunfermline should make Scottish League Cup progress at Arbroath's expense and Stranraer, in Scottish League Two, are a confident selection at bottom club Brechin.

Homes sweet homes: Southampton, flying high in the Premier League, are a delight to watch these days and well worth a punt when they host inconsistent Manchester United. Although Derby are at the foot of the Championship, they showed signs of improvement when losing narrowly at Bristol City last Saturday and can gain three badly needed points against Wycombe, who are also in the drop zone. Two National League teams, Stockport and Yeovil, contest the FA Cup second round on Saturday. Stockport are enjoying a far better season and it will be surprising if they don't make use of home advantage.

Pools info: I scored five draws out of ten last weekend: Leeds v Arsenal (0-0), Luton v Blackburn (1-1), Accrington v Lincoln (0-0), Barrow v Forest Green (2-2) and Scunthorpe v Morecambe (1-1).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of November 21-22

Ten draws: Leeds v Arsenal, Tottenham v Manchester City, Barnsley v Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth v Reading, Luton v Blackburn, Preston v Sheffield Wednesday, Accrington v Lincoln, MK Dons v Hull, Barrow v Forest Green, Scunthorpe v Morecambe.

Best draws: Leeds v Arsenal, Bournemouth v Reading, Preston v Sheffield Wednesday, MK Dons v Hull, Barrow v Forest Green.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Leicester, Chelsea, Cardiff, Watford, Brentford, Wimbledon.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Middlesbrough, Swansea, Ipswich, Peterborough, Cheltenham, Crawley, Exeter, Mansfield (Friday), Newport, Dundee United.

Pick of the draws: A fascinating game in prospect at Elland Road on Sunday: Leeds can't defend and Arsenal can't attack. Leeds have recently conceded four against Leicester (home) and Crystal Palace (away) while Arsenal have failed to score at home against Leicester and Aston Villa, so the match is finely balanced. Although leaders Reading lost 3-0 at home to Stoke in their last Championship outing, the scoreline was harsh on them and I feel they will partly make amends at Bournemouth, who have only lost once in the league this season. Tony Pulis is back in football as manager of struggling Sheffield Wednesday, who could pinch something at Preston. The Lancashire side have yet to win a league fixture at Deepdale this season. MK Dons sprang a surprise in League One last weekend by winning 2-1 at Sunderland. I believe they'll again upset the form book by holding second-placed Hull. In League Two, there are signs that Barrow, promoted from the National League, are getting into their stride. They denied high-riding Cambridge victory last Saturday and I think they'll do the same to Forest Green, who have encountered some recent setbacks.

Away days: Premier League leaders Leicester must have a great chance of beating injury-hit Liverpool at Anfield. Liverpool, the reigning champions, are likely to be without at least five regular first-team players and Leicester, who have not dropped a point away so far, are well equipped to take advantage. Chelsea, just outside the top four, seem to have solved their defensive problems and must be fancied at Newcastle. Cardiff are better than their 15th position in the Championship indicates and are worth a wager at Millwall, who convince one week and disappoint the next. Promotion candidates Watford should assert their superiority over Queens Park Rangers and mid-table Brentford are recommended at lowly Wycombe. I expect League One Wimbledon to celebrate their return to their Plough Lane ground by winning at Rochdale.

Homes sweet homes: Middlesbrough look like being in the Championship promotion mix under manager Neil Warnock. They give little away and are worth a punt against Norwich, who are higher in the table. On present form there's not much to choose between Crawley (ninth) and Carlisle (sixth) in League Two but I reckon ground advantage will give Crawley the edge. Nigel Clough has won his first three matches as Mansfield's manager and I believe the run will continue when Mansfield host Colchester on Friday.

Weekend info: Burnley v Crystal Palace (No 2 on coupon) and Wolves v Southampton (10) will be assessed by the pools panel. Mansfield v Colchester (39) is void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of November 14-15

Ten draws: Bristol Rovers v Fleetwood, Northampton v Accrington, Bradford City v Exeter, Carlisle v Cheltenham, Colchester v Leyton Orient, Harrogate v Crawley, Portugal v France, Sweden v Croatia, Hungary v Serbia, Albania v Kazakhstan.

Best draws: Northampton v Accrington, Bradford City v Exeter, Colchester v Leyton Orient, Harrogate v Crawley, Sweden v Croatia.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Peterborough, Mansfield, Stockport, Spain, Scotland, Greece.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Hull, Shrewsbury, Sunderland, Cambridge, Morecambe, Oldham, Barnet, Torquay, Netherlands, Austria.

Pick of the draws: Northampton and Accrington, both from League One, went out of the FA Cup first round to sides from a lower division and you wouldn't put money on either to win at the moment. By scoring seven in the FA Cup last weekend, League Two Bradford City showed signs of awakening but Exeter, again among the division's front-runners, will be tougher opponents than Tonbridge Angels. Colchester may still be reeling from their elimination by non-League Marine and Leyton Orient will feel they are in with a shout here. Crawley twice fought back from two goals down to win an enthralling FA Cup tie 6-5 at Torquay, who lead the National League. That sort of spirit should serve them well at Harrogate. Croatia don't seem to be the force they were in the last World Cup when they were beaten finalists and could be denied victory by Sweden as the European Nations programme resumes.

Away days: Peterborough, League One leaders and on a roll, look an away banker at Crewe, who are averaging less than a goal a game in this division. Mansfield, now managed by Nigel Clough, caused one of the biggest FA Cup upsets by winning at Sunderland last Saturday and can also surprise Forest Green, who lost heavily to Lincoln on the same day. Stockport, of the National League, beat League One Rochdale 2-1 away last weekend, so won't be fazed by having to visit lowly Dagenham & Redbridge. In the European Nations, Spain should be too strong for Switzerland while Scotland, revitalised under Steve Clarke's managership, are fancied to defeat Slovakia. Greece will probably come away from Moldova with three points.

Homes sweet homes: Shrewsbury, having beaten Cambridge and Crewe away in their past two games, are tipped to make it a hat-trick of wins when manager-less Swindon come to visit in League One. Barnet, of the National League, recorded a famous victory when their 10 men hung on to send League One Burton crashing out of the FA Cup last Sunday and I reckon they'll send Bromley home pointless. I expect Austria's improvement to be confirmed when they play Northern Ireland in the European Nations. 

Weekend pools info: The following matches have been postponed because of international call-ups and will be assessed by the pools panel: Wimbledon v Wigan (No 1 on coupon), Charlton v Rochdale (3), Lincoln v Gillingham (6), Oxford v Doncaster (8) and Grimsby v Newport (16).

More info: Five of my ten draws last weekend were Brentford v Middlesbrough (0-0), Ayr v Dunfermline (0-0), Huesca v Eibar (1-1), Atalanta v Inter Milan (1-1) and Parma v Fiorentina (0-0).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of November 7-8

Ten draws: Everton v Manchester United, Brentford v Middlesbrough, Norwich v Swansea, Watford v Coventry, Ayr v Dunfermline, Brechin v Stirling, Stenhousemuir v Edinburgh, Huesca v Eibar, Atalanta v Inter Milan, Parma v Fiorentina.

Best draws: Everton v Manchester United, Brentford v Middlesbrough, Norwich v Swansea, Watford v Coventry, Ayr v Dunfermline.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Leeds, Tottenham, Preston, Wimbledon, Dumbarton, Falkirk.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Arsenal, West Ham, Derby, Huddersfield, Reading, Boreham Wood, Torquay, Rangers, Hearts, Annan.

Pick of the draws: You're never sure what Manchester United are going to do next these days but they are playing better away than at home and I can see them holding Everton, who have lost their early season zip.  Veteran manager Neil Warnock is starting to get the best out of Middlesbrough, who are climbing the Championship table. They can get something from their visit to mid-table Brentford. Swansea are hot on the heels of leaders Reading and I believe they'll share the spoils at Norwich, whose winning sequence was ended in midweek when Millwall held them to a goalless draw at Carrow Road. Watford will begin firm favourites against Coventry but the Midlanders, who beat Reading 3-2 at home last Friday, could upset the odds again. Dunfermline lead the Scottish Championship on merit and should take at least a point at Ayr.

Away days: Leeds showed what they are capable of by defeating Aston Villa 3-0 away as well as giving champions Liverpool an almighty fright at Anfield on the opening day of the season. They are worth backing at Crystal Palace, who were well beaten at Wolves last Friday. Tottenham are among the Premier League's front-runners and must be fancied at West Brom, who have fallen into the relegation zone. Preston's best results in the Championship have been away from Deepdale, especially the 3-0 win at Reading in midweek, and I think they'll take three points off Rotherham. It's the FA Cup first round this weekend and League One Wimbledon should progress at the expense of League Two Barrow. High-flying Dumbarton are recommended at East Fife, who prop up Scottish League One, while Falkirk look a good bet at Partick. 

Homes sweet homes: Derby's recent improvement has not been reflected in their Championship results but they can put that right against Barnsley. Boreham Wood, of the National League, have a great chance of going through to the FA Cup second round when they host crisis club Southend, bottom of League Two. Torquay, who lead the National League, will approach their tie against Crawley with the same confidence. 

Pools info: Brighton v Burnley (No 2 on coupon) is being played on Friday and is therefore void.

I scored five out of six aways and eight out of 10 homes last weekend. The five aways were Chelsea, Manchester City, Sunderland, Port Vale and Motherwell. The eight homes were Tottenham, Stoke, Wycombe, Fleetwood, Peterborough, Barrow, Newport and Dunfermline.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 31-November 1

Ten draws: Aston Villa v Southampton, Newcastle v Everton, Bristol City v Norwich, Luton v Brentford, Middlesbrough v Nottingham Forest, Doncaster v Lincoln, MK Dons v Wimbledon, Cheltenham v Forest Green, Leyton Orient v Bolton, Stevenage v Grimsby.

Best draws: Aston Villa v Southampton, Bristol City v Norwich, Luton v Brentford, Doncaster v Lincoln, Leyton Orient v Bolton.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Chelsea, Manchester City, Cardiff, Sunderland, Port Vale, Motherwell.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Tottenham, Bournemouth, Preston, Stoke, Wycombe, Fleetwood, Peterborough, Barrow, Newport, Dunfermline.

Pick of the draws: Southampton brushed aside Premier League leaders Everton 2-0 at home last Sunday, so a draw at Aston Villa should not be beyond them, especially as high-riding Villa suffered an unexpected 3-0 home defeat by Leeds last Friday. Norwich are climbing the Championship table and had another good result in a 1-1 draw at Brentford in midweek. A repeat of that form gives them a fighting chance at Bristol City, who dropped a couple of home points against Swansea last weekend. Brentford don't seem to be the force of last season whereas Luton, their hosts, continue to punch above their weight. Lincoln top League One on merit but Doncaster don't give much away at home and can share the spoils. There are signs that Bolton are getting their act together in League Two. They followed up holding Cambridge to an away draw on Saturday by beating Bradford City at home in midweek and I believe they'll frustrate Leyton Orient.

Away days: Although Chelsea have underwhelmed so far, they should have too much for Burnley, who are still without a Premier League win this season. Manchester City have been weakened by injuries but they were convincing Champions League winners at Marseille and ought to see off lowly Sheffield United. In the Championship, Cardiff are recommended at Queens Park Rangers, mainly because QPR have gone seven matches without a win. Gillingham are also woefully off form and Sunderland, their League One visitors, are smart enough to take advantage. It's impossible to ignore the claims of Port Vale at rock bottom Southend in League Two and Motherwell, 4-0 winners over Ross last Saturday, look a sound bet at Livingston in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Stoke had a midweek setback when they lost 2-0 at Swansea in the Championship but they have otherwise impressed and are fancied to return to winning ways against Rotherham. Wycombe gained their first point of the season by holding Watford to a 1-1 midweek draw. They can go one better against Sheffield Wednesday, who are the only side below them in the Championship. Barrow at last tasted victory in League Two by defeating Mansfield 4-2 away. They are well worth a wager against Bradford City, who continue to disappoint.

Pools info: Coventry v Reading (No 11 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void. My predicted draws last weekend included Cardiff v Middlesbrough (1-1), Watford v Bournemouth (1-1), Burton v Wimbledon (1-1), Wigan v Plymouth (1-1) and St Johnstone v Dundee United (0-0).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 24-25

Ten draws: Southampton v Everton, Cardiff v Middlesbrough, Coventry v Blackburn, Watford v Bournemouth, Burton v Wimbledon, Sunderland v Portsmouth, Wigan v Plymouth, Bradford City v Newport, Colchester v Harrogate, St Johnstone v Dundee United.

Best draws: Southampton v Everton, Cardiff v Middlesbrough, Coventry v Blackburn, Sunderland v Portsmouth, Colchester v Harrogate.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Manchester City, Charlton, Forest Green, Leyton Orient, Celtic, Dunfermline.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Fulham, Liverpool, Wolves, Millwall, Doncaster, Oxford, Cheltenham, Exeter, Rangers, Dundee.

Pick of the draws: Southampton are going along nicely after a poor start to their Premier League season and will be encouraged by the way they fought back to draw 3-3 at Chelsea after falling two goals behind last Saturday. Also, top-of-the-table Everton will be without Richarlison, who was sent off in last weekend's Merseyside derby, and Rodriguez, who is injured. Middlesbrough's unexpected 1-0 midweek win at Bristol City knocked City off the top of the Championship. If Boro repeat that form on Saturday they will also frustrate Cardiff. A lack of goals has hindered Coventry, which is why I think they'll drop points against Blackburn. Sunderland deserve to be among the early pace-setters in League One but Portsmouth won well at Gillingham in midweek and could hold the northerners. Football League newcomers Harrogate are flying in League Two, so won't feel apprehensive about travelling to Colchester.

Away days: Manchester City achieved a welcome shut-out against Arsenal last weekend after their defensive problems. Because they are always a threat going forward, I believe they'll have enough to beat West Ham, although the Hammers will be buoyed by their fantastic late comeback at Tottenham last Sunday. Charlton have won their past two League One fixtures without conceding. I'm tipping them for a third consecutive success at Northampton. Although Forest Green lost in midweek, they are one of League Two's stronger teams and capable of seeing off Morecambe. Leyton Orient won at Tranmere in midweek and can do the same at Stevenage, who have not scored in their past four league games. In the Scottish Premiership, Celtic will be determined to bounce back from their 2-0 home defeat by fierce rivals Rangers and leave Aberdeen with maximum points. Dunfermline, of the Scottish Championship, have four wins from four in all competitions this season and must be fancied at Alloa. 

Homes sweet homes: Fulham, bottom of the Premier League, had much the better of their 1-1 draw at Sheffield United last Sunday and are well worth a punt against Crystal Palace, who are on a downward spiral. Oxford lifted themselves out of the League One drop zone by defeating Milton Keynes Dons 3-2  in midweek and they will probably climb higher after their home match with ailing Swindon on Saturday. I regarded relegated Dundee's 6-2 reverse at Hearts last Friday as a freakish result and I reckon they will make amends against Morton.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 17-18

Ten draws: Crystal Palace v Brighton, Leicester v Aston Villa, Manchester City v Arsenal, Blackburn v Nottingham Forest, Luton v Stoke, Rotherham v Norwich, Charlton v Wigan, Fleetwood v Lincoln, Crawley v Morecambe, Livingston v Kilmarnock.

Best draws: Leicester v Aston Villa, Manchester City v Arsenal, Blackburn v Nottingham Forest, Luton v Stoke, Crawley v Morecambe.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Bristol City, Millwall, Gillingham, Hull, Sunderland, Cambridge.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Everton, Sheffield United, Bournemouth, Swansea, Bristol Rovers, Ipswich, Peterborough, Plymouth, Forest Green, Port Vale.

Pick of the draws: Aston Villa's 7-2 caning of champions Liverpool ensured that they have maximum points from three matches and will have done wonders for their morale. Leicester's tails were similarly up after winning 5-2 at Manchester City but they then lost 3-0 at home to West Ham. I wonder how that result has affected team spirit. Arsenal's recent record at leading Premier League clubs is appalling but they are more resolute these days, which gives them a fighting chance at Manchester City, who have been thrashed by Leicester and held by promoted Leeds. The appointment of Chris Hughton as manager should give struggling Nottingham Forest a badly needed lift in the Championship and I've a hunch they will surprise a few people at Blackburn. Luton are doing better than expected but Stoke have defeated Wolves and Aston Villa away on reaching the last eight of the League Cup and I can see them gaining a point. By leading League Two, Morecambe have turned last season's form upside down. I'll be very surprised if they stay there but they'll be confident of avoiding defeat at mid-table Crawley.

Away days: I expect Bristol City, the early Championship leaders, to continue their progress at the expense of lowly Barnsley. Although Millwall have stalled recently, they will still probably have too much for promoted Wycombe, who lie second from bottom. Gillingham are looking genuine promotion contenders in League One and will fancy their chances at Milton Keynes Dons, who prop up the table. I regard Hull's heavy defeat at Fleetwood last weekend as just a blip and believe they will make amends at Rochdale. Sunderland are recommended at Swindon, who have lost two in a row at home, while high-flying Cambridge, in League Two, will want to confirm their superiority over Scunthorpe.

Homes sweet homes: Everton, who have not beaten Liverpool in 10 years, will never have a better chance than this weekend. The blue half of Merseyside sit proudly at the top of the Premier League, having taken maximum points from four matches, while Liverpool's collapse at Aston Villa must have shaken their confidence. Neither Sheffield United nor Fulham, who meet at Bramall Lane on Sunday, have a point in the league this season and lie 19th and 20th respectively. I reckon that Sheffield United, with ground advantage, will get off the mark. Although Port Vale have lost their past two games in League Two, they are worth a gamble against Salford, who have sacked manager Graham Alexander, despite lying fourth and staying unbeaten this season. 

Pools info: West Brom v Burnley (No 9 on coupon) is being played on Monday and will be assessed by the pools panel. I correctly forecast five draws last weekend and three of my five best draws came up: Mansfield v Stevenage (0-0), Walsall v Colchester (1-1) and France v Portugal (0-0).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 10-11

 Ten draws: Crewe v Wigan, Barrow v Leyton Orient, Mansfield v Stevenage, Walsall v Colchester, England v Belgium, France v Portugal, Iceland v Denmark, Israel v Czech Republic, Northern Ireland v Austria, Lithuania v Belarus.

Best draws: Crewe v Wigan, Mansfield v Stevenage, Walsall v Colchester, England v Belgium, France v Portugal.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Peterborough, Forest Green, Exeter, Sutton, North Macedonia, Slovenia.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Doncaster, Lincoln, Plymouth, Cheltenham, Oldham, Port Vale, Croatia, Scotland, Serbia, Greece.

Pick of the draws: Wigan seem on the upgrade, having beaten Portsmouth (away) and Doncaster (home) in their past two League One fixtures. They should come away with something from Crewe, who sit just above the relegation zone. Stevenage have been on the wrong end of some close scorelines in League Two but they are doing better than Mansfield and will be disappointed to leave empty-handed. By all accounts Walsall were lucky to avoid defeat at Forest Green last Saturday and will probably find visitors  Colchester equally tough opponents. England beat Iceland and drew with Denmark in their two previous Euro Nations encounters but Belgium are on a different level and are favourites to top England's group. France, the World Cup holders, host Portugal, the European champions. This promises to be the best match of the weekend and I think it will end all-square.

Away days: Improving Peterborough have more momentum than Northampton, who have lost consecutive League One matches to Hull (home) and Bristol Rovers (away). I expect Forest Green to go higher than their present 10th position in League Two and three points at Scunthorpe will help them do that. Exeter look back in the groove after defeating Cambridge United 2-0 at home last weekend and must be backed at Southend, who appear destined for a season of struggle. Sutton, who have six points from their opening two National League fixtures, ought to have nine once they've played Weymouth on Saturday. In the Euro Nations programme North Macedonia and Slovenia are expected to confirm their superiority over Estonia and Kosovo respectively.

Homes sweet homes: Morecambe are one of the surprising front-runners in League Two and they could come unstuck at lowly Oldham, whose brave fightback at Colchester last weekend earned them a 3-3 draw. Oldham will be determined to build on that result and they are worth a punt. It's about time Croatia, who are bottom of their four-team Euro Nations group, showed their teeth and I'm taking the 2018 World Cup finalists to gain their first points of the campaign at Sweden's expense. Scotland, who lead their group, host Slovakia, who occupy last place, and should not be inconvenienced. 

Pools info: Sunderland v Blackpool (No 8 on coupon) has been postponed and will be assessed by the pools panel.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 3-4

Ten draws: Everton v Brighton, Manchester United v Tottenham, Reading v Watford, Rotherham v Huddersfield, Blackpool v Lincoln, Burton v Portsmouth, Rochdale v Fleetwood, Wigan v Doncaster, Carlisle v Barrow, Stevenage v Salford.

Best draws: Everton v Brighton, Rotherham v Huddersfield, Burton v Portsmouth, Wigan v Doncaster, Carlisle v Barrow.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Liverpool, Manchester City, Sunderland, Ipswich, Gillingham, Port Vale.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Arsenal, Wolves, Blackburn, Middlesbrough, Hull, Colchester, Crawley, Newport, Tranmere, Hartlepool.

Pick of the draws: Brighton are playing well and were desperately unlucky to lose at home to Manchester United last Saturday. If they repeat that performance they are capable of holding Everton, one of the early Premier League front-runners on maximum points. Rotherham and Huddersfield, who meet in the Championship, are finding goals hard to come by and if any game draws a blank on Saturday it's likely to be this one. The pressure is on Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett to deliver after his team's bad start to the season in League One. Jackett and his players may go some way to doing that at Burton, who conceded four goals at Swindon last weekend. Wigan got their season up and running by winning 2-1 at Portsmouth but Doncaster, their opponents, are showing that they could be promotion contenders. Football League newcomers Barrow are without a win after three matches in League Two but they haven't been overawed in the higher division and I believe they'll deny Carlisle victory.

Away days: Premier League champions Liverpool have begun where they left off in 2019-20 and cannot be opposed, although, Aston Villa, their hosts on Sunday, are a trickier proposition this season. Manchester City's 5-2 home defeat by Leicester last Sunday was a big upset. Manager Pep Guardiola  will be anxious to bounce back as quickly as possible at Leeds and the Yorkshiremen could feel a backlash. Sunderland are among the early front-runners in League One and must be fancied at ailing Charlton. Leaders Ipswich are determined to improve on last season's mediocrity and will be confident of three points at lowly Milton Keynes. Gillingham, under manager Steve Evans, give little away and can return from Shrewsbury with a maximum haul. Port Vale, in second place, look as if they mean business in League Two and are worth a punt at Morecambe, who lie fifth.

Homes sweet homes: Middlesbrough are yet to get going in the Championship but three points are up for grabs against Barnsley, who seem likely to struggle again. It's about time that Tranmere, unluckily relegated to League Two last season on the predicted points per game basis, stopped feeling sorry for themselves and I'm taking them to spark into life against Scunthorpe. The National League fixtures start this weekend and Hartlepool look a good proposition against Aldershot, who probably won't enjoy the long journey home.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 26-27

Ten draws: Brighton v Manchester United, Crystal Palace v Everton, West Ham v Wolves, Millwall v Brentford, Northampton v Hull, Sunderland v Peterborough, Swindon v Burton, Oldham v Crawley, Southend v Morecambe, Celtic v Hibernian.

Best draws: West Ham v Wolves, Northampton v Hull, Sunderland v Peterborough, Southend v Morecambe, Celtic v Hibernian.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Chelsea, Blackburn, Swansea, Colchester, Carlisle, Kilmarnock.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Burnley, Tottenham, Bristol City, Cardiff, Crewe, Doncaster, Ipswich, Bolton, Cambridge, Cheltenham.

Pick of the draws: West Ham didn't deserve to go away from the Emirates empty-handed last Saturday and can collect their first point of the season against Wolves, who have lost at home to Stoke in the League Cup and Manchester City in the league. Northampton are adjusting well to the higher division of League One but relegated Hull will provide a stiff test and this match-up looks one of the most likely draws on the coupon. Two injury-time goals gave Peterborough a much needed victory over Fleetwood last weekend and should put them in the mood to get something at Sunderland, who are unreliable at home. Southend and Morecambe, who meet at Roots Hall on Saturday, are expected to be battling relegation from League Two and my hunch is for a low-scoring stalemate. Celtic had a far from comfortable home win over lowly Livingston in the Scottish Premiership last Saturday and may be vulnerable against Hibernian, who held Rangers 2-2 last Sunday.

Away days: I believe Chelsea will bounce back from Sunday's home defeat by Liverpool by beating West Brom, who are bottom of the Premier League and have conceded eight goals in their opening two league fixtures. In the Championship, Blackburn aren't the best travellers but they are worth a wager at Derby, who are struggling. Swansea will be confident of maximum points at Wycombe, whose stay in the Championship will probably be a short one. In League Two, on-form Colchester seem a good thing at newly promoted Barrow and Carlisle, having got off the mark against Southend, are fancied to win again at Scunthorpe. Kilmarnock beat Hamilton at home in the Scottish Premiership last weekend, despite being down to 10 men. I think they'll get another three points at St Mirren.

Homes sweet homes: I'm tipping Cardiff, 2-0 winners at Nottingham Forest last Saturday, to put Reading to the sword, despite Reading being top of the Championship. Crewe, promoted to League One, are pointless after two games but they can break their duck against MK Dons, who have also had a less than convincing start. No joy so far for Ian Evatt, newly appointed manager of Bolton in League Two. They host Newport, who knocked Watford, of the Championship, out of the League Cup in midweek. But the Welshmen may have an adverse reaction from the effort they expended on Tuesday, so have a punt on Bolton to gain their first win of the season.

Pools info: Huddersfield v Nottingham Forest (No 14 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 19-20

Ten draws: Chelsea v Liverpool, Norwich v Preston, Nottingham Forest v Cardiff, Stoke v Bristol City, Blackpool v Swindon, Burton v Accrington, Peterborough v Fleetwood, Harrogate v Walsall, Tranmere v Cheltenham, Kilmarnock v Hamilton.

Best draws: Chelsea v Liverpool, Nottingham Forest v Cardiff, Burton v Accrington, Peterborough v Fleetwood, Harrogate v Walsall.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Millwall, Ipswich, Portsmouth, Salford, Oldham, Rangers.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Arsenal, Everton, Leeds, Leicester, Southampton, Blackburn, Brentford, Luton, Hull, Newport.

Pick of the draws: I'm expecting a high-scoring stalemate when champions Liverpool go to Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Liverpool's much praised defence looked vulnerable when they beat Leeds on the opening day of the season and Chelsea have the forwards to take advantage of that. Meanwhile, Chelsea's defence is also far from secure. In the Championship, Nottingham Forest and Cardiff have flopped so far and it's hard to make a positive case for either of them. Accrington's 2-0 home victory over Peterborough in League One last Saturday indicates that they will continue to punch above their weight and I'm taking them to hold Burton. If Fleetwood's away form improves they could mount a promotion challenge and their first test is against Peterborough, who have yet to get out of the starting blocks. Harrogate's 4-0 away success at Southend in League Two was probably the best result of last weekend but Walsall will probably provide stiffer opposition for the Football League's newcomers.

Away days: Millwall, who finished just outside the Championship play-off places, will start favourites at promoted Rotherham and I think they will justify that favouritism. In League One, Ipswich will surely do better than last season and their visit to Bristol Rovers is a match they should be winning. Although Portsmouth have made a hesitant start to the campaign, I have to fancy them at Rochdale on Sunday. I reckon Salford will be in the League Two promotion mix and a win at Grimsby is within their grasp. Although Oldham lost at home to Leyton Orient last weekend, I expect them to bounce back at Stevenage, who can count themselves lucky to still be in the Football League. Rangers have made a flying start in the Scottish Premiership and the leaders are capable of extending their unbeaten run at Hibernian.

Homes sweet homes: Leeds seem more likely to adapt to a higher grade of football than Fulham, their visitors. Leeds were unlucky to come away from Anfield empty-handed last Saturday and I'm taking them to come out on top in this Premier League clash on Saturday. Southampton should also have got something at Crystal Palace and they have a good chance of making amends against Tottenham, who were poor when losing at home to Everton last Sunday. Unfashionable Luton, of the Championship, have won all their games so far, so won't be fearing a visit from Derby, who have impressed nobody.

Pools info: Aston Villa v Sheffield United (No 2 on coupon) is being played on Monday and will be assessed by the pools panel.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 12-13

Ten draws: Crystal Palace v Southampton, Barnsley v Luton, Bristol City v Coventry, Huddersfield v Norwich, Queens Park Rangers v Nottingham Forest, Wycombe v Rotherham, Lincoln v Oxford, Swindon v Rochdale, Oldham v Leyton Orient, Salford v Exeter.

Best draws: Barnsley v Luton, Bristol City v Coventry, Lincoln v Oxford, Swindon v Rochdale, Oldham v Leyton Orient.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Arsenal, Brentford, Reading, Charlton, Newport, Hibernian.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Bournemouth, Preston, Northampton, Plymouth, Bolton, Bradford City, Cheltenham, Port Vale, Walsall, Rangers.

Pick of the draws: Barnsley and Luton performed miracles to avoid the drop into League One and both won League Cup ties against the odds last Saturday. With the Football League programme starting this weekend it's hard to separate them. Promoted Coventry showed their intent when their 10 men won at MK Dons last Saturday. It shouldn't be beyond them to gain a point at Bristol City, whose promotion challenge faded at the end of last season. Oxford were unlucky not to be promoted to the Championship but won't underestimate their task at Lincoln, who are hoping to improve on last season's mid-table position. I believe promoted Swindon will recover from last week's League Cup home defeat by Charlton and share the spoils with Rochdale. Leyton Orient began the 2020-21 campaign by winning at Forest Green but may have to settle for a point at Oldham, who had a comfortable home victory over Carlisle. 

Away days: Arsenal's morale is high after lifting the FA Cup and Community Shield and intend to put down an early marker at Fulham's Craven Cottage, where they have a good record. Brentford, who were so close to the Premier League last season, are fancied to triumph at Birmingham, who don't inspire the same confidence. Reading, first-round League Cup winners last Saturday, are worth a punt at Derby, who only beat League newcomers Barrow via a penalty shoot-out. Charlton's impressive 3-1 win at Swindon last weekend will make them favourites to come away from Crewe with maximum points. In League Two, Newport should be too strong for Scunthorpe while Hibernian seem to have the measure of St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership. 

Homes sweet homes: Despite selling striker Callum Wilson to Newcastle, I expect Bournemouth to bounce back from last season's demotion and they will be disappointed with less than three points from the visit of Blackburn. Northampton's 3-0 success over Championship team Cardiff was possibly the best result of last weekend and if they play half as well this Saturday they should account for Wimbledon. Plymouth, like Northampton promoted to League One, also beat higher opposition when hosting Queens Park Rangers and they can see off visitors Blackpool.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 5-6

 Ten draws: Crewe v Lincoln, Forest Green v Leyton Orient, Ipswich v Bristol Rovers, Luton v Norwich, MK Dons v Coventry, Oldham v Carlisle, Scunthorpe v Port Vale, Walsall v Sheffield Wednesday, Azerbaijan v Luxembourg, Gibraltar v San Marino.

Best draws: Crewe v Lincoln, Luton v Norwich, MK Dons v Coventry, Scunthorpe v Port Vale, Gibraltar v San Marino.

Best bets: Six aways: Wigan, Swansea, Cardiff, Rotherham, Belgium, England.

Best bets: Ten homes: Brentford, Bristol City, Derby, Gillingham, Oxford, Peterborough, Rochdale, Swindon, Sunderland, Tranmere.

Pick of the draws: League One Lincoln's poor away record last season will be put to the test on Saturday in the League Cup first round when they visit Crewe, who have been promoted from League Two. It's my hunch that Lincoln will at least take the tie to a penalty shoot-out after 90 minutes. The way that relegated Norwich folded in last season's latter stages was worrying and Luton, who staged a remarkable late rally to stay in the Championship, will be encouraged by that. Although Coventry gained promotion to the Championship, they won't find it easy at MK Dons, who were capable of better than their 18th placing in League One last term. Port Vale, who missed the League Two play-offs by a whisker, travel to Scunthorpe, who are hoping to improve on last season's 19th position. Gibraltar v San Marino is a clash of football minnows in the first batch of Nations League matches at the weekend and neither will feel confident of seizing the day.

Away days: Wigan were desperately unlucky to drop into League One, having gone into administration, and they will be aiming to take their frustration out on Joey Barton's Fleetwood. Swansea, who reached the Championship play-offs, shouldn't be inconvenienced by Newport, of League Two, while Cardiff, who were also in the Championship play-offs, will surely see off promoted Northampton. I expect Rotherham, up from League One, to confirm their superiority over Salford. It would take a brave man to bet against Belgium these days and I can't see Denmark upsetting them in the Nations League. Iceland aren't half the side they were when they beat England in the 2016 Euros and Gareth Southgate's men are seeking revenge.

Homes sweet homes: If there's a surprise in this weekend's League Cup it may come at Rochdale, who host Huddersfield. Thanks mainly to the Cowley brothers, Huddersfield avoided relegation from the Championship and then promptly sacked them. That decision may come to haunt them this season and could work in favour of League One Rochdale, who often relish being the underdogs. Swindon, promoted into League One as champions, meet cash-strapped Charlton, who dropped out of the Championship. The momentum is with the hosts and the same can be said for Sunderland, who play relegated Hull.

Pools info: Burton v Accrington (No 6 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore  void.    

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of March 14-15

Ten draws: Watford v Leicester, Hull v Charlton, Middlesbrough v Swansea, Reading v Stoke, Sheffield Wednesday v Nottingham Forest, Blackpool v Sunderland, Gillingham v Fleetwood, Cambridge v Cheltenham, Forest Green v Northampton, Hibernian v St Johnstone.

Best draws: Watford v Leicester, Hull v Charlton, Reading v Stoke, Gillingham v Fleetwood, Forest Green v Northampton.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Chelsea, Manchester United, Peterborough, Walsall, Plymouth, Hamilton.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Manchester City, Norwich, West Ham, Queens Park Rangers, West Brom, Portsmouth, Tranmere, Exeter, Grimsby, Kilmarnock.

Pick of the draws: If Watford, fourth from bottom of the Premier League, can beat runaway leaders Liverpool so convincingly then they are capable of doing the same to third-placed Leicester. The only snag is that Leicester returned to form with a bang when defeating Aston Villa 4-0 at home on Monday and will surely show more resistance than Liverpool did. Hull and Charlton, who are both sinking like a stone in the Championship, play each other on Saturday and I can't make a positive case for either of them. Reading's fine 3-1 away win at Birmingham last weekend was matched by Stoke's 5-1 home thrashing of Hull. Stoke's away record leaves much to be desired but I believe they'll pinch a point here. Fleetwood are League One promotion hopefuls and showed their mettle by drawing 2-2 at fellow contenders Portsmouth in midweek. But Gillingham, their hosts, are no slouches either, as shown by their merited point at Sunderland last Saturday. Forest Green's terrible home form has held them back in League Two but their shock 2-0 win at Swindon last weekend will have given them the belief to hold the better-placed Northampton.

Away days: Chelsea, impressive 4-0 home winners over Everton last Sunday, look an away banker at Aston Villa, where hope of avoiding relegation from the Premier League seems to be fading fast. Manchester United, who have improved in leaps and bounds, are also a confident selection at Tottenham, whose last hope of a trophy this season disappeared when they crashed out of the Champions League in midweek. Peterborough are right back in the hunt for automatic promotion from League One and will be disappointed not to take three points at bottom club Bolton. Walsall, mid-table in League Two and fresh from defeating promotion-seeking Exeter 3-1 at home, will travel to Macclesfield with confidence. High-riding Plymouth will also be counting on a maximum haul at third-from-last Morecambe. Hamilton, with two consecutive victories, are making a spirited effort to avoid the drop in the Scottish Premiership and I'm taking them to make it a hat-trick at Ross.

Homes sweet homes: This is a must win for Norwich, the Premier League's bottom club, and I think they'll achieve it against Southampton, who have lost four out of the last five. West Ham were unlucky not to get something from their away defeats against Liverpool and Arsenal and are playing better than their lowly league position suggests. They are well worth a punt in their Sunday fixture against Wolves. Two away wins in a row against Accrington and Blackpool have revived Tranmere's chances of staying in League One and I'm backing them to make ground advantage count against Lincoln.

Pools info: Fulham v Brentford (No 13 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of March 7-8

Ten draws: Chelsea v Everton, Crystal Palace v Watford, Charlton v Middlesbrough, Preston v Queens Park Rangers, Ipswich v Coventry, MK Dons v Doncaster, Peterborough v Portsmouth, Cheltenham v Port Vale, Salford v Bradford City, St Johnstone v Livingston.

Best draws: Crystal Palace v Watford, Charlton v Middlesbrough, MK Dons v Doncaster, Peterborough v Portsmouth, Salford v Bradford City.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Manchester City, Burton, Rotherham, Oxford, Rangers, Inverness.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Arsenal, Wolves, Derby, Leeds, Stoke, Crewe, Northampton, Plymouth, Swindon, Hearts.

Pick of the draws: Watford must still be on cloud nine after that magnificent 3-0 home win over Liverpool last Saturday. It moved them out of the Premier League relegation zone but they may have to settle for a point at Crystal Palace, who have defeated Newcastle (home) and Brighton (away) in the past two weeks and are nearly safe. Charlton v Middlesbrough is a clash between two out-of-form sides in the Championship. Both are fighting to avoid relegation and it's hard to make a positive case for either of them. Doncaster's 3-1 home victory over League One high-flyers Wycombe last weekend was probably their best display of the season but their hosts, MK Dons, have also perked up and held second-placed Rotherham to a 1-1 draw last Saturday. It's getting very tight at the top of this division and Peterborough v Portsmouth is the stand-out match. Pompey gave Arsenal some anxious moments in the first half of the FA Cup fifth-round tie at Fratton Park last Monday and I believe they'll come away with a point here. Bradford City have the quality to climb back into the League Two play-off places but Salford have acquitted themselves well in their first season in the Football League and can deny them maximum points.

Away days: I think beating Real Madrid away in the Champions League and winning the League Cup for the third year in a row will lift Manchester City for the rest of the season and I tip them to come out on top against their bitter foes Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday. Burton, who have six away wins in League One, will fancy their chances of making it seven at Lincoln, who appear on a downward spiral. Promotion-seeking Rotherham let two points slip at home to MK Dons and will be anxious not to repeat this mistake when they visit Rochdale, who are just above the drop zone. Oxford are also in the promotion reckoning and will strengthen their case by beating Shrewsbury. Although Steven Gerrard's Rangers have faltered badly lately, I believe they'll gain their 10th away success of the season at Ross County. Inverness, second in the Scottish Championship, are a confident selection at struggling Alloa.

Homes sweet homes: Derby, who won impressively at Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday, could get another three Championship points on Sunday against Blackburn, who have been hindered by too many draws. Relegation-threatened Stoke are worth backing against Hull, who have completely gone off the boil and are leaking goals galore. Hearts, having already knocked Rangers out of the Scottish Cup, moved off the bottom of the Scottish Premiership with a great 3-1 midweek win at Edinburgh rivals Hibernian and can send Motherwell home pointless.

Pools info: Nottingham Forest v Millwall (No 17 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Feb 29-March 1

Ten draws: Tottenham v Wolves, West Ham v Southampton, Blackpool v Ipswich, Bolton v Accrington, Coventry v Sunderland, Doncaster v Wycombe, Bradford City v Plymouth, Forest Green v Leyton Orient, Oldham v Newport, Boreham Wood v Hartlepool.

Best draws: West Ham v Southampton, Blackpool v Ipswich, Coventry v Sunderland, Forest Green v Leyton Orient, Boreham Wood v Hartlepool.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Burnley, Leicester (Friday), Leeds, Swindon, Crewe, Walsall.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Brighton, Luton, Millwall, West Brom, Gillingham, Oxford, Portsmouth (Friday), Rotherham, Cambridge, Port Vale.

Pick of the draws: West Ham's spirited display in their narrow defeat at Anfield on Monday will have boosted their confidence in the battle to stay in the Premier League but they face Southampton, who are better away than at home and have already won six matches on the road. League One Blackpool, without a manager since the sacking of Simon Grayson, gained a rare victory in midweek and they could pinch a point against Ipswich, who have dropped out of the play-off positions. Coventry, in second place, were held at home by leaders Rotherham in midweek and I can see a revived Sunderland, who sit fourth, sharing the spoils with them. Forest Green have lost their last five at home in League Two but they can get something from the visit of Leyton Orient, who are in the bottom half. Boreham Wood are the surprise packet in the National League but they may have to settle for a point against Hartlepool, who have climbed into play-off contention.

Away days: If Burnley can beat Manchester United on their travels then they must stand a good chance against Newcastle, who could get sucked back into the relegation struggle. Norwich, the Premier League's bottom club, are seven points from safety and hope is running out. I don't believe they'll be shown any mercy by third-placed Leicester on Friday. Leeds, second in the Championship, have regained their poise in recent weeks and I think they'll take maximum points at Hull. League Two leaders Swindon are firm favourites to triumph at lowly Mansfield. Crewe, who are two points behind Swindon, should maintain the pressure by defeating Morecambe and Walsall are odds-on to increase Stevenage's misery at the foot of the table.

Homes sweet homes: Brighton will move away from the Premier League drop zone with a win over their fiercest rivals Crystal Palace. The Seasiders gained an unexpected but deserved point at Sheffield United last Saturday. Luton, who looked doomed a few weeks ago, have won three of their last four in the Championship and are worth a bet against Stoke, whose away record is dire. Millwall are also worth backing against Bristol City, who appear to be on a downward spiral.

Pools info: Middlesbrough v Nottingham Forest (No 13 on coupon) has been moved back to Monday and will be judged by the pools panel. Portsmouth v Rochdale (27) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

I got eight out of ten homes last weekend, with Chelsea, Manchester United, Wolves, Barnsley, Preston, Sunderland, Wycombe and Crewe all winning.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Feb 22-23

Ten draws: Crystal Palace v Newcastle, Leicester v Manchester City, Southampton v Aston Villa, Birmingham v Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton v Luton, Wigan v Millwall, Accrington v Rotherham, Fleetwood v Portsmouth, Northampton v Exeter, Walsall v Port Vale.

Best draws: Crystal Palace v Newcastle, Leicester v Manchester City, Birmingham v Sheffield Wednesday, Accrington v Rotherham, Fleetwood v Portsmouth.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Cardiff, Gillingham, Coventry, Doncaster, Forest Green, Motherwell.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Chelsea, Manchester United, Wolves, Barnsley, Preston, Sunderland, Wycombe, Carlisle, Crewe, Aberdeen.

Pick of the draws: Crystal Palace and Newcastle, both in mid-table, are averaging under a goal a game in the Premier League and this fixture at Selhurst Park looks ripe for a low-scoring draw. This week's bad news will have shaken Manchester City and they'll be hard-pushed to get more than a point in the late Saturday match at Leicester. Sheffield Wednesday's startling decline in the Championship has put pressure on manager Garry Monk. They have a chance to stop the rot at Monk's old club Birmingham, who are none too convincing at home. It never pays to underestimate Accrington, who are climbing the League One table and capable of holding leaders Rotherham to a draw. Fleetwood have won their past four matches but they may have to settle for parity against Portsmouth, who are in great form themselves.

Away days: Cardiff, in touching distance of the Championship play-offs, should strengthen their case by beating Stoke, whose revival has come to an abrupt halt. Gillingham, of League One, are a side on the up and I rate their chances of victory at Lincoln, who seem to be travelling in the opposite direction. Second-placed Coventry will probably go top if, as expected, they prevail at struggling Rochdale. Doncaster will travel in confidence to Shrewsbury, for whom nothing has gone right since their heroic draw against Liverpool in the fourth round of the FA Cup. League Two Forest Green are much better away than at home and are worth a punt at Scunthorpe, who are still adjusting to a change of manager. Despite the disappointment of a midweek Scottish Cup exit at the hands of St Mirren, Motherwell should take care of lowly Hamilton in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Chelsea are not in the best frame of mind after their controversial home defeat to Manchester United on Monday but they can put that right in the early Saturday game against Tottenham, who have been weakened by long-term injuries to Kane and Son. Bottom-of-the-table Barnsley's 3-0 win at Fulham, third in the Championship, was one of the upsets of last weekend and I'm tipping them to gain another three points against Middlesbrough, who have lapsed into their old bad ways. Carlisle, 21st in League Two, will see their home fixture against Morecambe (23rd) as a good chance to move further away from the relegation zone.

Pools info: Derby v Fulham (No 15 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of February 15-16

Ten draws: Charlton v Blackburn, Queens Park Rangers v Stoke, Accrington v Lincoln, Gillingham v Doncaster, Oxford v Sunderland, Cambridge v Bradford City, Oldham v Forest Green, Plymouth v Crewe, Walsall v Northampton, Cove v Edinburgh.

Best draws: Charlton v Blackburn, Queens Park Rangers v Stoke, Oxford v Sunderland, Cambridge v Bradford City, Cove v Edinburgh.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Wycombe, Peterborough, Coventry, Exeter, Salford, Dundee United (Friday).

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Arsenal, Southampton, Derby, Fulham, Leeds, Ipswich, Portsmouth, Grimsby, Swindon, Hearts.

Pick of the draws: Charlton, of the Championship, eased their relegation fears with an unexpected but deserved 1-0 away win over promotion-chasing Nottingham Forest but Blackburn, their opponents on Saturday, also had a good midweek victory (3-0 at home) against Hull and will be hard to overcome. Queens Park Rangers are struggling at the moment and Stoke, who are just clear of the drop zone, will be hoping to take advantage. League One Oxford, who gave Newcastle such a scare before bowing out of the FA Cup, face another team from the north-east, Sunderland, who have revived their promotion challenge. A point apiece looks the most likely outcome. A change of manager has seen Cambridge shoot up the League Two table with three consecutive wins but Bradford City, their opponents, are back in play-off contention and can come away with a point. Cove, the Scottish League Two leaders, have won all 11 of their home games but that sequence could be ended by Edinburgh, who are just one place and three points behind them.

Away days: Wycombe have slipped out of the League One automatic promotion places thanks to a
1-0 midweek home defeat by Fleetwood but they will surely return to winning ways at doomed Bolton. There's no stopping second-placed Peterborough (six straight wins) right now and I believe they'll continue their remarkable run by beating Fleetwood. Coventry are also bang in the promotion reckoning and must be fancied at second bottom Southend. Two successive home wins have got Exeter back on the promotion trail in League Two and they should relish a trip to cash-strapped Macclesfield. Mid-table Salford are recommended at Stevenage, who are being cast adrift at the foot of the table. Dundee United, the runaway Scottish Championship leaders, are firm favourites to prevail at lowly Alloa.

Homes sweet homes: Arsenal, who must start turning those draws into wins, have an excellent opportunity to do that on Sunday when they host Newcastle, who are flattered by their 12th position in the Premier League and were relieved to progress to the fifth round of the FA Cup against Oxford. Improving Southampton were unlucky to lose to Tottenham in an FA Cup fourth-round replay and I think they'll take it out on Burnley in the early match on Saturday. Hearts v Hamilton is a bottom-of-the-table battle in the Scottish Premiership and I believe Hearts will make the most of ground advantage.

Pools info: Hull v Swansea (No 6 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of February 8-9

Ten draws: Barnsley v Sheffield Wednesday, Millwall v West Brom, Nottingham Forest v Leeds, Stoke v Charlton, Wimbledon v Fleetwood, Shrewsbury v MK Dons, Colchester v Plymouth, Salford v Crawley, Stenhousemuir v Cowdenbeath, Boston v York.

Best draws: Millwall v West Brom, Nottingham Forest v Leeds, Stoke v Charlton, Stenhousemuir v Cowdenbeath, Boston v York.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Fulham, Rotherham (Friday), Portsmouth, Mansfield, Cheltenham, Airdrieonians.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Everton, Brentford, Huddersfield, Bristol City (Friday), Blackpool, Coventry, Wycombe, Exeter, Leyton Orient, Ayr.

Pick of the draws: Millwall made Leeds work hard for their recent 3-2 victory at Elland Road and they'll probably give Championship leaders West Bromwich Albion just as tough a test at The Den on Sunday. Promotion contenders Nottingham Forest and Leeds both had setbacks last weekend, Forest losing at Birmingham and Leeds beaten at home by struggling Wigan. There is little between them and it's difficult to pick a winner here. Stoke's hopes of avoiding relegation took a heavy blow when they crashed 4-0 at Derby last Friday. That may adversely affect them against Charlton, who also need the points. Although Cowdenbeath are third in Scottish League Two, their away record is poor. I think they'll be held by Stenhousemuir, who won 3-0 at Annan last weekend. York moved closer to the top of the Vanarama League North last Saturday but they have a fight on their hands at Boston, who are one place below them.

Away days: With West Brom and Leeds stumbling, Fulham's hopes of automatic promotion to the Premier League have been revived. They can strengthen their case by winning at mid-table Blackburn. League One leaders Rotherham show no signs of flagging and are recommended in the Friday fixture at Lincoln, who provided Southend with a rare victory last Saturday. Portsmouth, eight consecutive wins in all competitions, look a sure thing at relegation-threatened Tranmere. I believe Mansfield, 21st in League Two, will just edge it at second-from-bottom Morecambe while Cheltenham, back in the play-off places, should have too much for ailing Scunthorpe. Airdrieonians, in Scottish League One, are more effective away and will be confident of prevailing at Dumbarton.

Homes sweet homes: Everton's comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at Watford last Saturday will have bolstered their morale and they can build on that by defeating goal-shy Crystal Palace. Lowly Huddersfield gave a good account of themselves in their Championship defeat at Fulham and I'm tipping them for all three points against Queens Park Rangers, who appear to have hit a wall. It's Scottish Cup weekend and if you're looking for an upset it could happen at Championship high-flyers  Ayr, who I expect to trouble St Johnstone, in the bottom half of the Premiership.

Pools info: Five of my draws were correct last weekend: Leicester v Chelsea (2-2), West Ham v Brighton (3-3), Preston v Swansea (1-1), Mansfield v Carlisle (2-2) and Port Vale v Salford (1-1).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of February 1-2

Ten draws: Leicester v Chelsea, West Ham v Brighton, Hull v Brentford, Preston v Swansea, Accrington v Wimbledon, Ipswich v Peterborough, MK Dons v Wycombe, Mansfield v Carlisle, Port Vale v Salford, Kilmarnock v Ross.

Best draws: Leicester v Chelsea, Accrington v Wimbledon, Ipswich v Peterborough, MK Dons v Wycombe, Port Vale v Salford.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Arsenal, Norwich, Bristol City, Colchester, Northampton, Crewe.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Charlton, Fulham, Leeds, Cardiff (Friday), Oxford, Portsmouth, Cheltenham, Crawley, Hibernian, Rangers.


Pick of the draws: The disappointment of their League Cup semi-final defeat against Aston Villa in midweek may weight heavily on Leicester in Saturday's early Premier League game and Chelsea's away record of seven wins and a draw is impressive. Accrington are probably safe from relegation to League Two but they don't inspire confidence and Wimbledon, who are two places below them, can share the spoils. Ipswich were knocked off the top of League One by Rotherham in midweek and face Peterborough, whose promotion push is back on track after three consecutive victories. High-flyers Wycombe have wobbled lately and could be held by MK Dons, whose midweek home win over Rochdale put them six points clear of the relegation zone. Port Vale play Salford and these mid-table League Two sides had excellent midweek results against Exeter (3-1, home) and Cambridge (4-0, away) respectively. Perhaps the most likely draw on the coupon.

Away days: Arsenal must find a way to turn their draws (12 of them) into wins. With ace marksman Aubameyang returning after a three-match suspension, they could do it at Burnley, who have already lost six league games at Turf Moor. Norwich may be bottom of the Premier League but they have not given up hope. They played well in defeat at Tottenham and deservedly won at Burnley in the FA Cup last Saturday. Norwich will be looking for maximum points at Newcastle, who are flattered by their 14th position. Bristol City, who are better away, have climbed into the Championship play-off places and won't fear a trip to erratic Queens Park Rangers. Fifth-placed Colchester, having beaten League Two leaders Swindon 3-1 at home in midweek, will be firm favourites to prevail at ailing Cambridge and the same can be said for sixth-placed Northampton, who go to lowly Macclesfield. Crewe, back in the automatic promotion positions, can complete a trio of League Two away triumphs at Walsall.

Homes sweet homes: I'm taking Cardiff, who defeated promotion-seeking West Bromwich Albion
2-1 at home in midweek, to keep climbing the Championship table and collect another three points when Reading are the visitors on Friday. League One Portsmouth are bang in form with seven consecutive wins and I believe they'll strengthen their promotion challenge by beating Sunderland, who are two places above them. Rangers in pursuit of the Scottish Premiership title, unexpectedly slipped up last weekend at bottom club Hearts and they will be determined to make amends against under-performing Aberdeen.

Pools info: Three of my five best draws delivered last weekend: Southampton v Tottenham (1-1), Bristol Rovers v Fleetwood (0-0) and Scunthorpe v Crewe (2-2).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of January 26-27

Ten draws: Burnley v Norwich, Southampton v Tottenham, West Ham v West Brom, Bristol Rovers v Fleetwood, Carlisle v Walsall, Mansfield v Bradford City, Scunthorpe v Crewe, Hamilton v Livingston, St Johnstone v Kilmarnock, Clyde v East Fife.

Best draws: Southampton v Tottenham, West Ham v West Brom, Bristol Rovers v Fleetwood, Scunthorpe v Crewe, St Johnstone v Kilmarnock.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Sheffield United, Newport, Plymouth, Rangers, Aberdeen, Partick.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Brentford, Portsmouth, Burton, Ipswich, Sunderland (Friday), Morecambe, Salford, Motherwell, Dundee United, Falkirk.

Pick of the draws: Although Southampton slipped up at home to Wolves last Saturday after being 2-0 ahead, the threat of relegation from the Premier League is becoming a distant memory. They are at least the equals of Tottenham, whom they host in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend. Championship leaders West Bromwich Albion have stuttered lately but they have a reasonable chance of forcing a replay at West Ham, who are just above the Premier League drop zone. Bristol Rovers v Fleetwood in League One is a clash between two out-of-form sides, so a draw is the safest bet. Promotion-chasing Crewe needed an added-time equaliser to salvage a League Two point at Macclesfield in midweek and life probably won't be easier at Scunthorpe, who came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 at Bradford City last weekend. St Johnstone are catching up Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership and can share the spoils.

Away days: Sheffield United have lost only twice away this season - at Liverpool and Man City. Provided they play a reasonably strong team, that record shouldn't be in danger when they visit Millwall, of the Championship, in the FA Cup. There are signs that Newport are back in the groove after victories over League Two leaders Swindon (home) and Scunthorpe (away). I back them to make it three in a row at Leyton Orient, who have won only twice at home. Plymouth are another League Two side on a roll and will rate their chances at Stevenage, who are in deep in relegation trouble. The challenge by Rangers for the Scottish Premiership title should be strengthened when they play at bottom club Hearts on Sunday while on the same day fourth-placed Aberdeen ought to prevail at struggling St Mirren. Partick, second from bottom of the Scottish Championship but with four wins on the road, are worth a wager at Arbroath, who are tumbling down the table.

Homes sweet homes: Brentford's form, as well as their style, is very impressive and the high-flying Championship club are well capable of beating Leicester in the FA Cup. Portsmouth continue to surge up the League One table, which gives them a fighting chance of causing a cup upset against lowly Championship team Barnsley, who lost 3-0 at home to Preston in midweek. Morecambe, who are holding up League Two, don't win many football matches but have the ideal visitors in fast-fading Cambridge, who crashed 4-0 at home to fellow strugglers Stevenage last Saturday.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of January 18-19

Ten draws: Arsenal v Sheffield United, West Ham v Everton, Derby v Hull, Huddersfield v Brentford, Preston v Charlton, Doncaster v Coventry, Gillingham v Oxford, Lincoln v Blackpool, Walsall v Crawley, Barrow v Bromley.

Best draws: Arsenal v Sheffield United, Preston v Charlton, Doncaster v Coventry, Gillingham v Oxford, Walsall v Crawley.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Leicester, Chelsea, Cardiff, Portsmouth, Ipswich, Harrogate.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Norwich, Sheffield Wednesday, Swansea, Accrington, Rotherham, Wycombe, Newport, Northampton, Plymouth, Dundee United.

Pick of the draws: Sheffield United's only two away defeats in the Premier League this season have been at Liverpool and Manchester City. They deserve to be in the top six and will be confident of maintaining that record at Arsenal, who are still adjusting to a new manager and will be without their leading scorer Aubameyang, who is suspended. Preston have fallen away badly in the Championship, whereas Charlton, their visitors, appear to have arrested their slump. They played well in their 2-2 home draw with leaders West Bromwich Albion last Saturday. Seven draws show that Coventry are a tough nut to crack away from home in League One and I tip them to pinch another point at improving Doncaster. Oxford's promotion charge has been halted recently and Gillingham have the credentials to frustrate them again. Crawley's 2-1 home success against promotion-chasing Bradford City last Saturday will have boosted morale and they can share the spoils at Walsall, who are mid-table in League Two.

Away days: Leicester, third in the Premier League, surprisingly lost at home to Southampton last weekend but they have a good opportunity to return to winning ways on Sunday at Burnley, who are slipping closer to the relegation zone. Only Liverpool are doing better away than Chelsea, who will be firm favourites to beat the injury-ravaged Newcastle. Birmingham's poor record at St Andrew's in the Championship will encourage visitors Cardiff, who need three points to enter the promotion reckoning. Portsmouth, just outside the League One play-off positions, look an away banker at doomed Bolton, while third-placed Ipswich will fancy their chances at struggling Tranmere. Harrogate, who are thriving in the National League, are recommended at lowly Ebbsfleet.

Homes sweet homes: Maximum points are essential for Norwich if they are not to be cast adrift at the foot of the Premier League and I think they'll get them against fellow strugglers Bournemouth, who are having a terrible run of results, including a 3-0 home loss to Watford last Sunday. Two consecutive wins suggest that Newport are reviving and they are worth a wager against League Two leaders Swindon. The Scottish Cup always provides plenty of upsets and I believe Dundee United, the runaway Championship leaders, are worth backing against Hibernian, of the Premiership, on Sunday.

Pools info: Fulham v Middlesbrough (No 10 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void. Three of my five best draws were correct last weekend: Middlesbrough v Derby (2-2), Peterborough v Gillingham (0-0) and Leyton Orient v Grimsby (1-1).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of January 11-12

Ten draws: Brentford v Queens Park Rangers, Hull v Fulham, Middlesbrough v Derby, Stoke v Millwall, Burton v Fleetwood, Peterborough v Gillingham, Leyton Orient v Grimsby, Salford v Northampton, Swindon v Crewe, Dundee v Ayr.

Best draws: Hull v Fulham, Middlesbrough v Derby, Peterborough v Gillingham, Leyton Orient v Grimsby, Salford v Northampton.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tranmere, Plymouth, Falkirk.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Chelsea, Leicester, Wolves, Reading, Coventry, Oxford, Portsmouth, Sunderland, Exeter, Inverness.

Pick of the draws: Although Fulham had a morale-boosting FA Cup victory over Aston Villa, they won't relish a trip to free-scoring Hull, who are competing for the Championship play-off positions. Wayne Rooney's arrival is having a positive effect on Derby, who have won their past two matches, including knocking Crystal Palace out of the FA Cup. Their opponents Middlesbrough are also on an upward curve, which suggests that deadlock is the most likely result. Peterborough's League One promotion challenge has lost momentum and they'll be hard-pushed to beat Gillingham, who are away draw specialists. Ian Holloway's appointment as manager of League Two Grimsby has brought two consecutive victories and I can see them gaining a point at Leyton Orient, who have only won twice at home this season. Football League newcomers Salford are more than holding their own and I believe they'll deny Northampton, who are through to the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Away days: Manchester City, fresh from their midweek League Cup success at Manchester United, appear far too strong for Aston Villa, who fear relegation from the Premier League. Arsenal, showing signs of reviving under new manager Mikel Arteta, have a good record at Selhurst Park and can leapfrog Crystal Palace in the table. It's foolhardy to bet against Liverpool at the moment and they'll be firm favourites to leave Tottenham with maximum points. League One strugglers Tranmere forced an FA Cup replay at Watford after being 3-0 down last Saturday. That feel-good factor should continue at Southend, who look doomed to relegation. Plymouth have regained their mojo in League Two and are expected to follow last weekend's 3-1 success at Scunthorpe with three points at lowly Carlisle. I think third-placed Falkirk will strengthen their Scottish League One promotion challenge by beating Peterhead.

Homes sweet homes: Reading, one of the most improved sides in the top four divisions, are well worth a punt against the better-placed Nottingham Forest in the Championship. Oxford are looking increasingly like promotion material and I tip them to prevail when they host Rotherham, fellow promotion challengers from League One. Sunderland, after a worrying slump, are right back in the promotion mix. They defeated Lincoln 3-1 at home last Saturday and I'm backing them to upset leaders Wycombe, who are experiencing a blip.

                                                                                                                                                  

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of January 4-5

Ten draws:  Brentford v Stoke, Fleetwood v Portsmouth, Queens Park Rangers v Swansea, Rotherham v Hull, Southampton v Huddersfield, Crawley v Forest Green, Swindon v Bradford City, Dundee v Inverness, Dunfermline v Ayr, Albion v Stirling.

Best draws: Fleetwood v Portsmouth, Rotherham v Hull, Crawley v Forest Green, Swindon v Bradford City, Dunfermline v Ayr.

Weekend's best bets: Six aways: Coventry, Barnsley, Cambridge, Colchester, Dundee United, Torquay.

Weekend's best bets: Ten homes: Bournemouth, Cardiff, Charlton, Fulham, Preston, Sunderland, Cheltenham, Salford, Clyde, Raith.

Pick of the draws: It's FA Cup third round weekend and I believe Fleetwood v Portsmouth is one of the best draws on the coupon. Just two places and one point separate these League One sides. Pompey should recover from their surprising 3-1 defeat at Milton Keynes last Sunday and force a replay. Rotherham, who have emerged as automatic League One promotion contenders, have a fighting chance against Hull, mid-table in the Championship. Forest Green have faltered in their quest for promotion from League Two and may have to settle for a point at Crawley, who have moved well clear of the drop zone. League Two leaders Swindon, unexpectedly beaten 2-0 at Port Vale last Sunday, could suffer another disappointment at home to Bradford City, who have automatic promotion in their sights. Although Dunfermline lost to bottom Scottish Championship club Alloa at the weekend, they are usually strong at home and I tip them to hold the better-placed Ayr.

Away days: With two consecutive 4-1 away wins behind them in League One, Coventry's confidence must be soaring and I think they'll make the FA Cup fourth round at the expense of Bristol Rovers. Barnsley look determined to avoid relegation from the Championship and that spirit should serve them well at high-flying Crewe from League Two on Sunday. Macclesfield, deducted six points for breaches of EFL regulations, are now precariously placed in League Two and Cambridge should be able to take advantage. Colchester, in the play-off positions, are expected to confirm their superiority over bottom club Stevenage and the same can be said for Scottish Championship leaders Dundee United, who visit Queen of the South. In the National League, Torquay can cash in on the plight of Dagenham & Redbridge.

Homes sweet homes: Charlton, languishing in the Championship, haven't given their fans much to shout about but I predict an upset when they host promotion favourites West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup at The Valley on Sunday. Fulham, fifth in the Championship, have the skill and belief to knock struggling Aston Villa out of the Cup and are worth a punt. Although Preston's Championship form has suffered recently, they host Norwich, who are probably more concerned about avoiding relegation from the Premier League.