Saturday Accumulator

In the same way that Wigan finally pulled off a result when they really, really needed one last week, I think Blackburn Rovers will finally get their victory this weekend. They entertain a plucky Swansea City side who don’t travel well and who didn’t score a goal throughout November. In the Championship, Leeds and Brighton look like strong bets; both at home, top seven sides, on form, yet longer than evens money to win. Perfect accumulator fodder.

Steve Kean came in for yet more criticism for fielding an under-strength side in the Carling Cup during midweek. The Blackburn boss has a great chance to show that he made the right move at Ewood Park on Saturday, and the team news is encouraging. The defensive trio of Christopher Samba, Martin Olsson and Michel Salgado should return and add steel against opponents who have already gone 270 minutes without finding the net.

The Swans will probably be without striker Danny Graham, while defender Angel Rangel is a regular at the back who will be missing. With two points accrued from a possible 18 away from Wales, Brendan Rodgers’ side should expect another tough afternoon. Blackburn now have a run of crunch fixtures than could see them move up the table (Swansea, Sunderland, WBA and Bolton). Three of them are at home, and Rovers still have enough spirit to get the ball rolling in this one.

Into the Championship; I strongly fancy Leeds United to put on a big performance in memory of Gary Speed at Elland Road. Simon Grayson’s side were magnificent in his honour on Tuesday night, defeating Nott’m Forest 4-0 at the City Ground. That made it three wins in four as the Yorkshire side moved up to fourth in the table. The strange thing is that Leeds are playing well, but are actually due a win on their own patch. There have been recent defeats to Barnsley and Blackpool, but I’d be amazed if they didn’t get back on track on this poignant occasion against Millwall.

I made reference to Forest losing 4-0 at home the other night; Andy Reid was sent-off in that match and will be sorely missed for the weekend clash with Brighton. The Seagulls are over their slump now and only sit outside the play-off spots on goal difference. Gus Poyet’s side have won three of their last four - only slipping up against impressive Southampton. In contrast, Steve Cotterill’s new team have suffered three defeats in their last four and have slipped back into the relegation zone. WilliamHill therefore seem generous offering us 13/10 on the this one going to form.

We maximise our accumulator value because this same firm is offering the best odds on the market for each of the individual matches. Back Blackburn, Leeds and Brighton to win at best treble odds of just under 10/1 (WilliamHill).