Reds still favourites, despite Ronaldo’s departure

Sport betting

MEGABUCKS signings and big-name departures have sparked feverish activity in the betting market for the 2009/10 Premier League season.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from champions Manchester United has, inevitably, prompted punters to look elsewhere for potential winners.

But the bookies are convinced the Reds have enough in reserve to successfully defend their title, United being available at a best-priced 15-8.

Chelsea seem to have fended off Manchester City’s bid for skipper John Terry and are solid second favourites at 12-5, while last year’s runners-up Liverpool are their shortest price for years — a rather meagre 3-1.

Arsenal, with key players returning from injury, look interesting at 9-1 but, despite their continuing spending spree, this could be a season too soon to seriously consider Manchester City, although die-hard fans may wish to take the 25-1 on offer.

Tottenham, at 100-1, are next in the betting.

As for Athletic, they are 33-1 to win the League One title under the guidance of new boss Dave Penney (pictured left).

Athletic are 10-1 for promotion, while only doom and gloom merchants would be interested in the 9-1 being quoted for them to be relegated.

Leeds are 7-2 to win the title, with Norwich at 7-1, Charlton 9-1, M K Dons 11-1 and Huddersfield 12s.

BARROW Raiders, tipped here at the start of the season at 28-1, are now down to 11-8 to win rugby league’s Northern Rail Cup on Sunday.

The Cumbrian side take on favourites Widnes (8-15), surprise winners over Halifax in the last four, in the Blackpool final.