At times, football can be very difficult to predict. Everyone remembers Leicester’s ridiculous run to the Premier League title in 2016, but very few fans would have backed the dream to come true (odds of 5000/1 were available).
While Man City’s charge to the title was much more predictable last season, there were plenty of shocks: Burnley nicking a Europa League place and Crystal Palace escaping relegation were among the unpredictable outcomes.
Below is an attempt to list next season’s Top 10 (in reverse order), with some reasoning thrown in for each. The latest odds are supplied by William Hill. If you want to back any, check the latest bonuses for some extra value.
- Wolves
A team transformed in recent years and one with big ambitions for the future. Not everything is without controversy, including Wolves’ links to agent Jorge Mendes. But they are going to spend and build something lasting at Molineux. At 11/10, Wolves to finish in the top half looks decent value.
- Crystal Palace
Has any manager redeemed his reputation as quickly as Roy Hodgson? He deserves more recognition for the job he did at Palace last season. They had no points when he joined and looked certain to be relegated, but ended up in 11th. 9/4 they finish in the Top 10 looks a steal. One caveat though: they must keep hold of Wilfred Zaha.
- West Ham
Despite tumultuous times at the club, the Hammers will spend big in the summer. They have also appointed one of the world’s most underrated managers in Manuel Pellegrini. Should the fans, unlike last season, get behind the team, the a Top 10 finish (9/4) is within sight. [Read more…]