Premier League Double

Two of Saturday’s 3pm kick-offs in the Premier League have draws written all over them. As always, there is value to be had here as the bookies will never price up the draw as the most likely result even if the evidence is strongly in its favour. The result - an enticing 10/1 double with Betfred.

The first match in question is Wigan v Fulham. The Latics are the 6/4 (Ladbrokes) favourites despite failing to win any of the previous 11 encounters between the two; there have been 6 draws in that sequence.

The Cottagers are hardly famed for their travelling qualities, but they should have the confidence to take something from the DW Stadium after a fine 3-0 win over WBA last weekend. On the same day Wigan slumped to a 4-0 defeat at Old Trafford. But a Fulham win must be unlikely; a side who have scored just 14 goals in 21 fixtures away from Craven Cottage under Jol. It will surely be close.

Secondly, we have West Ham v Sunderland. The Black Cats just seem to share the spoils with everyone as 3 draws from 3 top flight outings would suggest. Again, the bookies are making the hosts heavy favourites at 5/4 (WilliamHill) but the loss of Andy Carroll to injury will make a big difference.

Instead it’s the Mackems who have the striker on form in Steven Fletcher. The ex-Wolves ace has hit the ground running with 3 goals in 2 appearances for his new club. That threat, along with the legendary grit of Martin O’Neill teams could stop the Hammers from recording a third consecutive win at Upton Park this season.