Man Utd still odds-on for title despite first defeat
Published:Manchester United’s betting odds have drifted slightly to 4/6 to win the Premier League after they finally suffered their first defeat of the season at lowly Wolves.
The absence of Rio Ferdinand for the Red Devils seemed to be a huge factor as they performed well below the level of form that they had displayed throughout much of their opening 24 games of the season.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s team are no doubt at their best when Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are their central defensive partnership, but the England international injured a calf in the warm up and Jonny Evans was called in as a late replacement.
He is now expected to be out for two weeks and Ferguson must decide whether Evans or Chris Smalling are the best choice to partner Vidic for the crunch derby with Manchester City on February 12th.
Manchester United’s nearest pursuers Arsenal failed to take advantage after blowing a 4-0 lead away at Newcastle.
Their 4-4 draw at St James’ Park means they are four points behind Manchester United and now 11/4 to win the Premier League.
Manchester City had no such troubles in cruising to a 3-0 triumph over West Brom and they are now back into 14/1 to win the Premier League after ending a disappointing sequence of one point from two games.
Wolves’ victory also boosted their chances of securing Premier League survival as they are now back in touch with the rest of the table.
However, with fellow relegation candidates Wigan also winning against Blackburn, the victory has had little impact on their survival odds.
Wolves are 4/7 to be relegated this season, with Wigan remaining the 1/2 favourites in this betting market.
A £25 stake on Chelsea winning the Premier League would return £137.50. New customers can sign up here for a free £25 bet.
