2008 CARLING CUP BETTING TIPS

The Carling Cup is in full swing and this week's action is taking place on Tuesday and Wednesday. Two big four clubs are in action and we will likely get another look at Arsene Wenger's youth squad as he continues along with his tradition of allowing his up-and-coming players to have a run out against lower league opposition. Manchester United and Spurs will be action on Wednesday and both games should be wide open as Blackburn and Watford are certainly no pushovers. Burnley- ArsenalAfter Burnley's dramatic victory against Chelsea, everybody was reminded of just how magical the Carling Cup really can be. Now everybody is wondering whether lightning truly can strike twice in the same place as Burnley look to pull off a similar result against the gunners. Seemingly, this must look to be a slightly easier game than the Chelsea match and if Burnley can nick an early goal and then set up shop in front of their own goal it may be easier said than done for Nicklas Bentdner and co. This is a great match for live betting as the odds on Burnley will be quite good and the are very much in with a shout in this match. Derby- StokeDerby and Stoke are two relatively evenly matched teams even though they're in separate divisions. Frankly, I would have to rate Stoke a bit higher than Derby (who truly were an embarrassment to the Premier League last season) and I'm confident that Rory Delap will be here to do what he does best. Stoke are without Dave Kitson so they will lack bite up front. I am confident, however, that they will find space down the flanks and it will ultimately be Derby's undoing. Manchester United- BlackburnUnited will likely field an under-strength team and names like Manucho, Possebon and the Da Silvas will likely all feature. Tevez and Giggs also look set for appearances as Ferguson is looking for a blend of youth and experience with an eye firmly fixed on this weekend's clash with Sunderland. In all honesty there really has never been a better time to play Sunderland. I think Paul Ince will play his best players, but I'm confident that Ferguson's team is deep enough to answer any questions Ince's men will ask of United. Watford- TottenhamHarry Redknapp's honeymoon phase at White Hart Lane is clearly over and he's lucky that he's coming up against Championship opposition at this point in lieu of facing a more seasoned Premier League side. I have a feeling that you'll see the majority of Spurs regular first team, although he may be seeking an opportunity to give a chance to some fringe players. Either way, I can see the Hornets really giving them a go, but I think Spurs will settle the game down and take it in the second half.