At the risk of sounding too much like the Kicking Bets blog, I thought this was a great bet. William Hill had this price this afternoon, I'm not sure how long it had been there, but it got taken down swiftly after I had £800 on, hardly a large exposure for them, being the big company that they are.
This is the first bet I've had with a bookmaker outside of Betfair for a long time. I used to place a lot of bets with various companies until one by one they began cutting down the amount I was allowed to bet and sometimes asking me to stop betting altogether. I've been very lucky to get this bet on. I did want much more on that this, but it was all they were willing to lay. I would be very surprised if Beckham wasn't subbed at some point.. Either way, I'm going to this match, so it'll be fun cheering for Becks to be taken off. Decent odds for a fun punt.
::update::update::update:: 1st June 9:45am
As JohnT from The Gambler has kindly pointed out, Bet Direct are offering their own Beckham Specials, the same bet with them is 2/5 ! With Beckham offered at 7/4 to play the entire match. I could close out my bet for a risk free profit, but I intend to let it run. Here's a snap of the Bet Direct site. Pleasing.
I would not be the slightest bit surprised if Beckham did not start the match.
Cole left, Carrick and Lampard with Gerrard out wide right may be the starting midfield 4.
That said, if Beckham does start, Bentley may well get a run on the right in the last 15.
I will certainly keep an eye out during the match with your wager in mind.
Posted by: Sand Racer | June 01, 2007 at 12:38 AM
I feel fairly confident he'll start given all the hype and controversy it would be an anti climax to have him on the bench. I do agree with the thought of him coming off though, if only so he can be applauded (or booed) by the crowd. Bentley deserves a run out you are right.
Posted by: Matt | June 01, 2007 at 08:25 AM
I see Bet Direct are offering 7/4 Beckham to play the full 90 minutes. :-).
Posted by: The Gambler. | June 01, 2007 at 09:35 AM
You're a beautiful man John T :) Now that's funny! Not that I'm getting out of my bet, but nice to have the option.. More proof that I priced it up properly in my eyes.
Posted by: Matt | June 01, 2007 at 09:38 AM
I certainly witnessed Beckham get replaced By the enigma that Jermaine Jenas.
Just as well you won a few quid Matt. £25 for parking a car near Wembley is a bit grim.
Posted by: Sand Racer | June 01, 2007 at 10:32 PM
Hey it's a winner ! The first bet I ever post up on the blog ahead of time and it comes in. Don't expect me to make a habit though, this was a fairly exceptional bet.
Sandracer, I got the train up to Wembley with the fans. All I can say is the tube had a rather strong smell of BO and Alcohol.. hehe btw, if you ever get invited to a Box there I recommend you take it, they are fantastic, excellent food as well. Thanks to Betfair for the invite :)
Posted by: Matt | June 02, 2007 at 11:32 AM