For every major sporting event, the traders at Sporting Index provide us with a preview called Trading Talk -analysing all the factors that affect how you spread bet!

We're sharing all this vital info on our Trading Talk page -this includes Prem & FA Cup football, Rugby, Test Match & ODI Cricket, race meetings, grand slam tennis and golf.

Trading Talk - European Championships 2012

Poland and Ukraine are this year's hosts of the European Championships and spread buyers of Spain's outright tournament index will be hoping they can defend their title. As the reigning European and World Champions, Vicente del Bosque's side are atop of the outright tournament index on Sporting Index and look the side to beat. Spread sellers of Spain's outright index will be wishing that David Villa's absence will prove a huge hindrance in their bid for a third consecutive international tournament triumph. Those spread punters looking to take on Spain will be pleased to be made aware of the fact that Villa scored five of Spain's seven goals in the 2010 World Cup and is their main threat upfront.

Since the Premier League season came to its conclusion, England's outright tournament index has been the hottest topic up and down the country. Sellers of the spread may be aware that England have reached only one semi-final in their previous eight European championships and have been knocked out at the group stage four times in their last six European competitions. Spread buyers of England's tournament index might be banking on form during qualification and international friendlies, where England have lost just twice in their last 16 games.

Sporting Index's tournament team goals is another popular market that will likely have spread bettors taking an interest in. Spread buyers of Dutch tournament goals at the Euros will be encouraged to hear that they scored 37 times in qualifying, averaging 3.7 goals a game. Those spread bettors hoping to sell Holland's total goals may like to note that both Robin van Persie and Klass-Jan Huntelaar were prolific for their respective domestic clubs, scoring 30 and 29 times during the English and German campaign.

However, spread sellers of Holland goals for the European competition will likely have seen that they are in a group with Germany and Portugal who only conceded seven and 12 goals in their ten qualifying games respectively.

England finished top scorers in Group G with 17 goals and that will please spread buyers of the Three Lions' tournament goals. The Three Lions' averaged 2.1 goals per game during qualifying. England's last European tournament was in 2004 and the side finished highest scorers in Group B, averaging 2.7 goals per game and that will be well received by spread buyers of England's tournament goals in Poland and Ukraine. Wayne Rooney is banned for the opening two England matches and that might cause spread punters to debate selling England tournament goals.

Another interesting market that may catch the eye of spread betting fans is Sporting Index's Total tournament goals market. Spread buyers of tournament total goals will be pleased to know that the last three European championships have averaged 80 goals in the tournament.

Trading Talk - French Open

The 2012 French Open will once again have spread betting enthusiasts debating whether anyone can steal Rafa Nadal's crown at Roland Garros. Nadal tops the Sporting Index tournament index on the back of another impeccable display at the clay Grand Slam in 2011, where he dropped just three sets in the tournament. That will likely encourage those spread punters looking to buy Nadal's outright tournament index. Even more beneficial for spread buyers is that Nadal has defeated world number one Novak Djokovic in two clay finals already this year - in Monte Carlo and most recently in Rome.

Nadal won his sixth Grand Slam in Paris last year beating his old nemesis Roger Federer and he will be looking to add an eleventh career Grand Slam trophy to his cabinet. However, his greatest threat comes from world number one Novak Djokovic. Spread enthusiasts selling Djokovic's tournament index may want to consider that the Serbian beat Nadal in the Australian Open final earlier this year and is a proven player for the big occasions winning his last six Grand Slam finals.

Meetings between the top four players this year have all been close with many sets being settled in tie-breaks and that will spark debate among those that enjoy a spread bet on the total games market ahead of this year's final. Spread sellers of total games for the French Open final might tread carefully after witnessing 44 games in the Australian Open decider earlier this year between Djokovic and Nadal. This may also encourage X-Court buyers as three of the four sets in the French Open last year contained at least 12 games.

Spread buyers of Andy Murray's tournament index might be tempted to go for the Scot considering he reached the semi-finals in 2011, which was his best finish since reaching the 2008 quarter-finals. However, spread sellers might have seen that Murray only reached the last 16 in Rome and the quarter-finals in Monte Carlo.

In the women's draw, Maria Sharapova is finding form at the right time with a three sets win over Li Na in Rome. That was Sharapova's fifth final on the tour this season - winning two of those. However, spread sellers of Sharapova's tournament index could point out that she has never got past the semi-final's in Paris and has been knocked out before the semi-final stage five times in the last seven years.

Last year's women's final was won by Li Na, beating Francesca Schiavone 6-4 7-6. The straight sets victory was the tenth successive final that was settled within two sets. Spread bettors looking at the total games market for the final might like to know that the 2011 showdown produced the most games in ten years with 23. Spread sellers would highlight that there have been some low accumulative game totals in finals though, 15 in 2007 and 12 in 2005. The average number of games in the past nine women's finals is 17.8.

Trading Talk – Premier League Preview

After 35 games of an enthralling season, it looks as if it could all come down to the Manchester derby as spread bettors wonder which club will make a defining stand in the title race.

A few games ago spread buyers of Man United’s Championship Index were sitting pretty with an eight point advantage. Spread buyers now know that should Man City win on Monday evening, Roberto Mancini’s side will go top on goal difference.

Spread punters planning on buying City’s win index will likely know just how strong the side have been at home in the league this season, winning 16 of their 17 games and drawing the remaining one. City’s spread supporters will also probably remember the 6-1 drubbing at Old Trafford they registered over the Red Devils. Those spread enthusiasts buying United’s win index could argue that Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have beaten City twice this season – once being in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium.

Further encouragement for spread buyers of United’s win index is that the Red Devils have not lost on their past three league visits to City – winning two of those. Spread bettors with an interest in the match supremacy market may have seen that the last league game between the two sides finished 6-1. That afternoon proved a hugely successful one for spread punters who bought total goal minutes as there were three late goals and a sum of 501 points. The most recent United game against City produced a total goal minutes make-up of 193 points and the Community Shield game wielded 283 points.

Total goal buyers will be happy to hear that there have been 17 goals scored in the three Manchester derby fixtures this season. However, total goal sellers will take confidence that City’s last home league game against United finished goalless.

In two of the three Manchester derby games this year there have already been three goals scored in the 90th minute and that will please those spread bettors with an interest in the ‘last match goal’ market. However, spread sellers of that market could point to the last two games between the sides at City that produced the final strike in the 52nd minute in a 1-0 United defeat and a goalless draw.

With so much riding on the game, spread bettors may look towards the bookings index market given the feisty nature of a derby. Spread buyers of the bookings index will be delighted to learn that there have been three red cards in the past three competitive City/United matches.

Wayne Rooney is now just one behind Robin van Persie in the Premier League scoring charts and spread punters looking at his player performance index will be delighted to learn that the striker has scored eleven times in his last ten starts in the league. Rooney scored a brace in his last league game and two in the last meeting against City, which will offer further encouragement for buyers of his player performance spread.

Trading Talk – Premier League Preview

It's one big game after another for Chelsea at the moment, as this time the Blues' spread supporters prepare for a huge fixture against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Spread buyers of the total goals market have profited well from this fixture in the past as there have been 30 goals scored in the previous eight fixtures between the two sides. Further support for total goal buyers is that earlier this season Arsenal came through an eight goal thriller at Stamford Bridge.

Spread bettors looking at Sporting Index's match supremacy market will be intrigued to know that the last six fixtures between the two clubs have ended with a winning margin of at least two goals on four occasions. Another interesting factor for those spread enthusiasts looking at the match supremacy market is that Chelsea have kept three clean sheets in their last five outings against the Gunners.

For any spread punters that like a bet on the 'time of last match goal' market they will be interested to learn that the Gunners have scored in the last five minutes in three of their previous four home games.

This will also be encouraging news for spread buyers of total goal minutes. Spread buyers of the market will take plenty of positives from the fact that the average total over the past five Chelsea/Arsenal contests currently stands at 197 minutes.
On Sunday Manchester United welcome in form Everton to Old Trafford for a crucial Premier League game and spread buyers of the host's outright Championship index will be hoping United can secure their 15th home league win from 18 matches.

Those spread punters contemplating buying the match supremacy will be more than happy to hear that Everton have failed to score against Man United in seven out of the last 12 matches. Anyone hoping to buy Everton's win index should take note that the Toffees have won just once in 12 Premier League outings against Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils.

Spread betting fans who keep a close eye on the bookings index might have spotted that the past five Everton games with United have averaged 48 points. Another plus for spread buyers of the bookings index is that this season has produced the most yellow cards at this stage than any other campaign to date.

Everton have tended to struggle for goals at Old Trafford and spread bettors hoping to sell Everton's match goals may have seen that Moyes' side haven't scored at the Theatre of Dreams since December 2007. United have averaged 2.6 goals at home in the league thus far and that news will be well received by spread buyers of total match goals in Sunday's game.

Wayne Rooney will line-up against his former club once more and spread punters looking at his player performance index will be delighted to learn that the striker has scored nine times in his last nine starts in the league.

Trading Talk – FA Cup – Semi-Finals

Liverpool face Everton and Chelsea meet Tottenham in the FA Cup semi-finals where local bragging rights as well as a place in the final are up for grabs. The Merseyside derby gets the action underway on Saturday lunchtime and Everton's spread supporters might recall that it was Everton that progressed when these rivals last met in the FA Cup.

Dan Gosling's winner 118 minutes into the replay was enough to give Everton the victory, but spread sellers of the Toffees' win index will likely have seen that they have already been beaten twice this year by Liverpool. Any spread punters looking to buy Everton's win index will be disappointed to hear that in both the Toffees' defeats to Liverpool they have failed to find the back of the net.

Merseyside derbies are renowned for their passion and that will likely have spread punters that enjoy a bet on the bookings index stand up and take note. Spread buyers of the bookings index will be pleased to hear that there has been seven yellow cards and one red card issued in the two league meetings between the clubs this campaign. Those looking to sell the bookings index might like to learn that there was an average of 68 points on the bookings total across Everton's two FA Cup games against Liverpool in the 2008/09 campaign – with one red card.

Steven Gerrard has had plenty of success in this fixture and spread buyers of his player performance index will be encouraged that the midfielder scored a hat-trick against David Moyes' side on the most recent meeting. Further support for buyers of Gerrard's player performance spread is that he scored the equaliser in the first cup tie three years ago. Those spread punters that enjoy a like on the total goals market may have seen that Nikica Jelavic's arrival at Everton has seen his new club average 2.4 goals per game across their previous five fixtures.

Sunday sees Tottenham take on Chelsea and spread buyers of Spurs' win index will be hoping they can get the better of their London rivals at the third time of asking this term. Those spread bettors with an interest in the match supremacy market might like to know that the two league meetings between the clubs finished all square. Match supremacy sellers could point to the Blues' last Wembley fixture against Spurs that ended 1-1 at 90 minutes, before Jonathan Woodgate scored the winner in extra-time.

Spread punters debating a bet on the bookings index market may have seen that the two meetings this season have averaged 35 points. Spread sellers looking at the total goals market will be pleased to hear that there has only been two goals between the two sides so far this season. However, there is some positive news for total goal buyers as before this season the previous four fixtures between the two teams had produced 11 goals – while the three previous FA Cup meetings between the two sides accumulated 13 goals.

Trading Talk – Premier League Preview

The Premier League returns at the weekend and there are two huge games involving the North London clubs to keep spread bettors entertained. Liverpool kick things off when they welcome Arsenal to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime and then Manchester United travel to White Hart Lane for Sunday's late game.

Spread buyers of Liverpool's outright championship index will be hoping that the Reds' Carling Cup triumph can spur them onto a strong finish and beating Arsenal would be a start. The Reds' spread supporters will be pleased to find that the side haven't lost to the Gunners in three matches and they won the reverse fixture 2-0 at the Emirates earlier this season. Those keen on buying the match supremacy will likely be aware that Kenny Dalglish's side remain unbeaten in the league at Anfield since August.

Interestingly, there have been a number of late goals in the recent meetings between the clubs and that will please those spread punters looking at Sporting Index's last match goal market. Luis Suarez scored Liverpool's second at the Emirates in the 90th minute and that was the third game running that has seen the last goal scored in the final minute in an Arsenal/Liverpool game.

Another trait of recent Liverpool versus Arsenal matches is red cards and that news will be well received by spread enthusiasts that enjoy a bet on the bookings index. Emmanuel Frimpong was sent off when the Gunners hosted Liverpool earlier in the term and that was the third dismissal in as many games. Spread buyers of the bookings index will be pleased to hear that the average bookings total in the previous three Liverpool fixtures against Arsenal currently stands at 72 points.

Ryan Giggs' late goal at Carrow Road extended United's unbeaten run away from home to three matches. Spread punters buying United's win index will argue that the Red Devils have not lost against their next opponents for 24 matches across all competitions.

Spread bettors that enjoy a punt on the match supremacy market may like to learn that Spurs have only scored two goals against United in their previous six meetings.

Although Harry Redknapp's side were beaten 5-2 at the Emirates last Sunday, Spurs have been excellent at home all season which will offer encouragement to those selling the match supremacy. Spurs have lost only once at home in the league all season and they have scored 13 times in their past six league contests.

Anyone keen on selling total goals for the game might argue that although there were three goals in the reverse fixture this season, it finished in a goalless draw when United last visited Tottenham in the league. Total goals buyers could refute that by stating that the average number of goals in the past seven United/Spurs contests across all competitions currently stands at 3.1 per game. United's previous two league games in Tottenham have produced an average of 80 on the bookings make-up and that may tempt spread punters to have another buy on Sunday.

Trading Talk – Six Nations (Week 3)

As the Six Nations tournament gathers pace, England face their biggest challenge yet when the attacking Welsh side visit Twickenham. Stuart Lancaster's tenure as England coach has began well with two wins on the bounce and spread punters can buy their outright tournament index at 30 with Sporting Index. As it stands Warren Gatland's Wales side are spread favourites, at 46, to lift their first Six Nations trophy since 2008 - where they landed the illustrious Grand Slam.

Both England and Wales head into Saturday's contest boasting of 100% records from two matches and something must give at Rugby HQ. In last year's competition the Red Rose lost out to Wales 19-9 at the Millenium Stadium to the delight of those spread bettors that bought the host's win index that afternoon. Those keen to buy England's win index on Saturday might like to know that the defeat in Wales ended a run of three straight Red Rose victories over their next opponents. Over the years these two nations have met 122 times and England's spread supporters will be happy to hear that the side have won 56 of those, while they have lost on 54 occasions.

Sellers of England's supremacy spread against Wales might not be aware that the side have won their past two games against Wales at Twickenham, although they did lose to Wales four years ago in London. The winning margin in the most recent Wales/England match was ten points, while the average winning margin over the past six internationals stands at eight points. Those spread enthusiasts that enjoy a bet on the supremacy markets may have seen that the largest winning margin in the past six Wales/England games is by 13 points in 2010, while the smallest was four points in 2011.

Total points buyers will likely be a little concerned that the Red Rose have only managed 32 points in their opening two Six Nations matches. Wales have scored 18 additional points and that news will be well received by spread bettors debating buying the visitor's total points. In the past six England matches against Wales there have been 245 points scored, which averages out at 41 points per contest.

Sporting Index's total tries market often proves a popular choice among spread punters. Spread sellers of total tries might have seen that the Red Rose failed to score a five-pointer when they last faced Wales and there was just one try in the match. Buyers of the total tries spread could point to England's last game with Wales at Twickenham where five tries were run in. In the past six Wales matches against England there have been 20 tries scored, at an average of 3.33 per game.

Those spread bettors with an interest in the bookings market will be pleased to learn that there were two yellow cards issued when England last met Wales – both for Gatland's side. That was the second occasion in three meetings between England and Wales that two players have been sent to the sin-bin.

Trading Talk – Six Nations (Week 1)

England will look to start a new era by claiming a second successive Six Nations trophy after winning four of their five matches in the 2011 competition. Sporting Index have made France favourites on the outright index quoting their spread at 37-40, while the Red Rose are quoted at 25-28.

Stuart Lancaster's first game in charge sees England take on Scotland at Murrayfield and buyers of the Red Rose's supremacy will be hoping the side can secure a third consecutive win over Andy Robinson's side. Further encouragement for spread bettors buying England's supremacy is that the Red Rose last lost to Scotland four internationals ago following a 9-15 defeat at Murrayfield.

Scotland's spread supporters will take heart that the side did manage a 15-15 draw on England's last game North of the border. Those spread punters looking to sell England's supremacy might like to know that England's last win over Scotland was by just four points, while the previous victory was by a margin of six points.

Total point buyers for the game will be interested to learn that there were 28 points scored in the last England v Scotland contest. The average number of points scored in England's last three internationals against Scotland currently stands at 32 points.

Chris Ashton's total tries market for the tournament will likely be a hot topic after the winger scored six times in the 2011 competition. Spread buyers of England's total tournament tries might also be aware that the Saracens winger finished joint-top scorer at the 2011 World Cup with six. However, spread sellers of England's tournament tries will have likely seen that the side were only sixth top scorers at the World Cup – with 20 tries.

All the action kicks-off with France welcoming Italy to Paris after so nearly beating New Zealand in the World Cup final. Spread enthusiasts looking to buy Italy's supremacy will recall the surprise 22-21 win over France in Rome last year. Those buying Les Bleus' supremacy could argue that the side had won the previous 12 internationals against the Azzurri. In fact France have only ever lost twice to Italy in their history and not once in France, which will please buyers of their supremacy.

Ireland welcome Wales on Sunday looking for revenge after the Welsh edged past them in the World Cup to the delight of spread buyers of their tournament index that day. Spread buyers of Wales' win index on Sunday will be happy to hear that Warren Gatland's side have beaten Ireland the past two contests.

Spread sellers of Wales' supremacy may have seen that Ireland handed the visitors a 27-12 defeat on their last trip to Ireland.

Three of the last four Dublin meetings between the countries have resulted in an Irish triumph by 15 points and that will be welcome news to spread buyers of the host's supremacy.

For anyone that enjoys a spread bet on the total tries market it might be useful to know that there were four tries when Ireland and Wales last met. Spread sellers of the total tries market should note that there were only two players to cross the line in the contest before.

Trading Talk – FA Cup – Fourth Round

Manchester United face their second huge FA Cup game on the spin when they travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool for a place in the fifth round. Spread bettors that have bought Man United's outright index at 39 will be hoping that the club can lift the famous trophy for the first time since 2004 – following a 3-0 win over Millwall.

Total goal buyers in Liverpool's game against Man Utd will likely recall that the Red Devils beat Man City 3-2 in the third round. The total goal minutes for the match reached 193 points with City scoring twice after the break to make for a nervy finish at the Etihad Stadium. Spread punters hoping to buy goals on Saturday will also be happy to hear that the Reds reached the fourth round with a 5-1 victory over Oldham and the total goal minutes make-up finished at 350 points.

Those spread enthusiasts planning on selling goals might well argue that the league game earlier in the campaign between the clubs only saw two goals, while the FA Cup meeting in January 2011 was a 1-0 ed win. However, goal buyers will be buoyed that four of the previous six meetings between these clubs have produced at least three goals – at an average of three per contest.

Those spread bettors debating buying the Liverpool/United match supremacy will be worried that Kenny Dalglish's outfit have really suffered at home in the league since August. While spread sellers of the match supremacy will be happy to learn that United boast of the best away record in the Premier League with eight victories from eleven fixtures and just one defeat.

Spread buyers of Liverpool's win index will not be pleased to learn that the Reds have only won four of their eleven home league games, drawing the remaining seven. Reds' spread supporters will take some encouragement that they have yet to lose at home in the league, although drawing to clubs like Wolves, Swansea and Blackburn was somewhat unexpected.

United and Liverpool have had a long and fierce rivalry over the years and that may well interest spread punters that enjoy a bet on the bookings index. Spread buyers of the bookings index for United's visit to Anfield might remember that Vincent Kompany was sent off in United's last FA Cup game. The defender's first half dismissal helped contribute to a bookings index total of 65 points.

Interestingly, Liverpool's most recent game against Sir Alex Ferguson's side in the FA Cup saw Steven Gerrard dismissed and the bookings total reached 45 points that afternoon. The highest bookings sum over the past few seasons was United's game at Anfield in 2009 where two reds were brandished to make up a hefty 100 points to the delight of spread buyers of the bookings index that afternoon.

Spread sellers of the bookings index could counter that the Reds' past two fixtures against United have not produced a red card and the average bookings total in those games stands at 45 points.

Premier League Preview

Manchester City remain unbeaten after 14 matches, but spread buyers of their outright Premier League index will be aware that Roberto Mancini's side have another tricky game on Monday. Spread buyers of Manchester United's outright index will recognise this as an opportunity to close the gap at the top, given the Red Devils face Wolves at home on Saturday before City travel to Stamford Bridge.

Andre Villas- Boas' side hammered Valencia on Tuesday evening to secure their place in the last 16 of the Champions League and spread buyers of their win index will be hoping the side can win their third successive game. Chelsea have won their past two league matches 3-0 and anyone looking for a spread bet on the match supremacy market will be hoping the side can keep a third clean sheet in four fixtures.

Spread punters interested in the match supremacy market will also be intrigued to learn that both games between these clubs last year were won to nil. Chelsea have won three of the last four home league matches against City, scoring nine times in those victories.

Even though City lost at Stamford Bridge on their last visit, their game in West London in the 2009/10 campaign ended in a 4-2 win and that will please buyers of the visitor's win index. Total goal buyers will have fond memories of that clash and will also be happy to learn that City have averaged 3.4 goals per league game since August. Any spread enthusiast intent on selling total goals will point to the fact that neither league game in 2010/11 produced more than two goals.

Sporting Index's total goal minutes market will likely generate plenty of discussion as City's 4-2 triumph in February last year produced an impressive 391 points. Spread buyers of total goal minutes will also take encouragement that there were two late goals in City's last visit to Stamford Bridge as the sum reached 168 points.

There were 11 cautions issued in Chelsea's two games against City last campaign, but it's the meeting in West London during the 2010/11 term that will have buyers of the bookings spread most excited. That contest produced two dismissals as Juliano Belletti and Michael Ballack saw red in a fixture that accumulated a total of 90 points, to the delight of spread buyers that afternoon.
Before Monday's game, Sunderland welcome Blackburn to the Stadium of Light and buyers of their win index will be eager the side can get a third successive home league win against Rovers. Yakubu's player performance spread might attract attention after the Nigerian scored four times in Rovers' last outing – his individual goal minutes reached 204 points.

Those spread punters looking to buy the match supremacy will be happy to hear that the Black Cats didn't concede in two league games against Rovers last term, while they scored three in the most recent game on Wearside.

Sporting Index's 'time of first match goal' market may also be one for spread bettors given the opener in Sunderland's last two games against Rovers has arrived in the 11th and 21st minute respectively.

Trading Talk – Rugby World Cup Final

There'll be plenty of spread bettors that feel it should be Wales taking on New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final, but whatever the case, France have the opportunity to upset the odds on Sunday.

The contest will be the seventh Rugby World Cup final and spread buyers of the host's win index will be desperately hoping they can lift their first Webb Ellis trophy since the opening competition in 1987. Spread punters might be interested to learn that the 2011 showdown will be a repeat of the inaugural final – a game the All Blacks won 29-9.

Looking back through the finals will reveal to total point buyers that there have been a total of 182 points scored in the six matches at an average of 30 points per game. Total point buyers for Sunday's final will be hoping for a repeat of 1999 final between France and Australia where the Wallabies won 35-12. Those looking to sell total points on Sunday will highlight the 1991 game where there were just 18 points scored when Australia defeated England.

As it stands, New Zealand have scored 293 points to France's 152 during their six matches at this tournament. Spread sellers of the total points market will have been encouraged that France failed to score a try against a Welsh side with 14 men for the majority of the semi-final and accumulated just nine points.

Spread enthusiasts looking at the match supremacy market might have seen that in the six finals to date there have been two contests that have needed extra time to settle the game. Graham Henry's side also are the tournament's top try scorers this year and have ran in 39 thus far. France are seventh in the try scoring table with 15, which sellers of the underdog's points will be encouraged to hear.

Those keen on having a spread bet on the total tries market will likely recall that there were no five-pointers in the final four years ago. Spread sellers of total tries will be intrigued to learn that there have been ten tries scored in six finals and the highest total in a game was in 1987 when four players crossed the line.

Any spread bettors interested in the bookings index will be intrigued to find that Sonny Bill Williams' yellow card was the first the side have received at the tournament. Les Bleus have also only had one player sin-binned, which will spark debate amongst spread bettors planning on buying the bookings spread.

The two nations will meet for the 51st time in their history and it's the All Blacks that lead the head-to-head record with 38 victories to 12 defeats, which will please spread bettors buying the host's win index. Those spread punters selling the Kiwi's win index might well argue that Les Bleus have won three of the past four meetings. However these two rugby sides have already met once in the competition and it was the All Blacks that prevailed by 37 points to 17.

Trading Talk – Rugby World Cup Semi-Finals

After a month of exhilarating rugby action there are only four nations remaining and spread bettors can look forward to another pulsating weekend when Wales take on France and New Zealand meet Australia. Those spread punters that bought the All Blacks' outright index at the start of the competition will be delighted the side remain on course to lift their first Webb Ellis trophy since the inaugural 1987 tournament.

The opening semi-final sees England's conquerors, France, go up against Wales and spread sellers of the match supremacy will have been delighted with Les Bleus' last eight performance. Spread buyers of France's win index will be hoping that the side can reach the third Rugby World Cup final in their history and a first since 1999 in Wales.

Marc Lievremont's side failed to score a single try in their semi-final against England four years ago and buyers of their win index will be banking on a much improved performance in Auckland.

When these two sides meet on Saturday it will be for the 89th time and Wales' spread supporters will be happy to hear they edge the head-to-head record by 43 wins to 42 – with three draws. However, buyers of Wales' win index will be concerned to hear that the side have lost their past three meetings with Les Bleus. In the most recent game in March, France ran out 28-9 winners and total try buyers might be aware that Wales failed to score a try in the game.

The two Wales defeats in 2010 and 2009 were by a far closer margin, which will be of interest to those spread enthusiasts addressing the match supremacy. The 2010 and 2009 losses were by six and five points respectively.

New Zealand then take on Australia and buyers of the host's win index will be hopeful of the side avoiding a third defeat in four meetings with the Wallabies. The All Blacks have only lost to the Wallabies on 47 occasions during their 166 contests – with 114 victories in their favour. Match supremacy punters might like to know that there have been only five draws between the two nations since their first meeting in 1903.

Total point buyers will be pleased to find that Graham Henry's side are the leading scorers in the competition with 273 points – at an average of 55 points per match. The All Blacks are also the leading try scorers with 38, which will spark debate amongst spread bettors looking at the total tries market for Sunday.

Those spread bettors interested in the bookings index will be intrigued to find that neither Australia nor New Zealand has been shown a yellow card in their opening five fixtures. Spread sellers of the bookings index will take further encouragement that there have been no sin-bins in the All Blacks' last five meetings with Australia.

Any punters that are considering a buy of the bookings index will be hoping for a repeat of the 2010 match in Melbourne, where each side had a player sin-binned and the Aussies also had Drew Mitchell sent off for a second yellow card.

Trading Talk – Rugby World Cup 2011

The seventh Rugby World Cup is just a few weeks away and spread bettors will be preparing themselves for plenty of early starts for some thrilling rugby action. Spread punters may have seen that New Zealand were piped to the post in the Tri Nations by Australia, but the hosts remain 85-87 outright spread favourites (100pts winner, 80pts – Runner-Up, 60pts – Third, 50pts – Fourth etc).

Buyers of the All Blacks' outright index will argue that coach Graham Henry rested key players for their defeat in South Africa a fortnight ago – including fly-half Dan Carter. Having won the inaugural World Cup in 1987, New Zealand have failed to live up to their reputation on the greatest stage and spread sellers of the outright index will be pleased to hear they have only reached the final on one other occasion - back in 1995.

Newly-crowned Tri-Nations champions, Australia, will head to New Zealand in fine spirits after a 25-20 victory in their final match. Spread bettors will be pleased to find that the Wallabies have won the competition in 1991 and 1999, while they finished runners-up in the 2003 tournament. Spread sellers of the Australian outright index may have seen that the side did concede 79 points during the Tri-Nations, with a points difference of +13.

Spread buyers of South Africa's outright index will be hoping the decision to rest a number of their starting XV for the Tri-Nations will pay off in New Zealand. Peter de Villiers was able to call upon his key players in the Springbok's 18-5 win over the All Blacks, which will cause concern to those looking to sell their outright index. Sellers of South Africa's outright index will also be aware that the side are the current world champions having beaten England 15-6 four years ago in France.

Martin Johnson's men signed off their preparations with a solid 9-20 victory over Ireland which will offer hope to England's spread supporters that they can claim their second title. Further encouragement for buyers of England's outright index is that the side have reached the final in the past two competitions, while they also came second in the 1991 final against Australia.

England also showed they have what it takes to win the major tournaments after they claimed the Six Nations in March, which will put some doubt into those spread bettors looking to sell their outright index.

France will also offer hope for their spread supporters after beating Ireland twice in their final two warm-up matches before the world cup. Marc Lièvremont's France narrowly lost out to England in the Six Nations when finishing two points behind. Spread sellers of their outright index might argue that the French have not reached the final since 1999.

Spread punters will be interested to hear that the 2007 final didn't produce a single try, but the 2003 final saw two trys in the match. Any spread enthusiasts looking at the total points market for the final will be intrigued to hear that the highest total in a final came in 1987 when New Zealand beat France 29-19, while the lowest was Australia's 12-6 win over England in 1991.

Trading Talk – The US Open Tennis

The final Grand Slam of the year gets underway on Monday evening and spread bettors will be anxiously waiting to hear the news of Novak Djokovic's injury. Spread punters looking to buy Djokovic's outright index (100pts for winner, 70pts for runner-up, 50pts for losing semi-finalist etc.) will have been particularly disappointed to see him retire early from the Cincinnati Masters final against Andy Murray trailing 4-6, 0-3.

Even with a potential shoulder complaint, the world number one has been in sublime form in 2011 and spread buyers of his outright index will be pleased to learn that he has only lost twice in 59 matches this season. Anyone planning on selling the Serbian's outright index might like to know that he has never won the US Open, although he reached the final in 2007 and 2010.

While the final in Cincinnati remained competitive, Murray outplayed his opponent and that will be a huge bonus to spread buyers of Murray's outright index. A Grand Slam remains elusive for the Scot and buyers of his outright index will be interested to hear that he has reached the final at the Australian Open and the last four in Paris and at Wimbledon during 2011.

Spread enthusiasts will have noticed that Roger Federer is no longer the player he once was, but he showed at the French Open he still has the game to take down anyone on his day. At the semi-final stage in Paris he brilliantly beat Djokovic and that may lead some spread punters to look at his outright index in New York.

Rafael Nadal clinched the career Grand Slam by winning the 2010 US Open and buyers of his outright index will be hoping for back-to-back victories at Flushing Meadows. The Spaniard has won at least one Grand Slam title in seven consecutive seasons, but sellers of his outright index may have seen that he lost in the Rogers Cup first round in Canada and then lost to Mardy Fish at the Cincinnati Masters quarter finals last week.

The 2009 US Open winner, Juan Martin Del Potro, enjoys playing on the hard surface and the Argentine may attract spread bettors' interests once more in New York. However, spread sellers of his outright index should note that he lost in the second round in Montreal and Cincinnati over the past couple of weeks.

Sporting Index as always offer plenty of interesting spread markets for Grand Slam matches, one of which is the total games market. Spread buyers of the total games market for the men's final will be looking for another 2009 contest which lasted an impressive 53 games, as will buyers of the match distance spread (100pts for five sets, 50pts for four sets).
Another market of interest for spread punters is the X-courts market. Spread buyers will again hope for a repeat of the final two years ago which accumulated 138 points. However, spread sellers of the X-courts market may have spotted that the past 4 women's finals have all been decided in two sets – with Clijsters beating Zvonareva 6-2, 6-1 in only an hour in 2010.

Trading Talk – Premier League Seaon Preview

Spread bettors might have been a little surprised after the Premier League's opening weekend as all home sides failed to win for the first time in history. Both Chelsea and Arsenal were unable to pick up maximum points to the delight of any spread punters supporting either Stoke or Newcastle, respectively.

The Gunners fans will get their first opportunity to see the side at the Emirates this season when Liverpool make the trip to North London and sellers of their win index will be pleased to see that Cesc Fabregas has finally completed his move to Barcelona. Spread buyers of the host's win index will have noted that the Reds blew a 1-0 lead at Anfield to drop two points against Sunderland on Saturday. Those spread punters having a bet on Liverpool's win index will be intrigued to know that the Gunners won only 58% of their home matches last season, although they did have the league's best away record.

In comparison, the Reds won only 26% of their league games on the road during the same campaign. Anyone having a spread bet on the match supremacy market may like to know that there was nothing to separate the sides last term, as both games finished in a 1-1 draw. The 1-1 result at the Emirates in April was the third consecutive match between the sides which has seen fewer than three goals – which will please those selling total goals. Fans might recall that the last meeting produced two goals after the 90th minute and that may encourage spread bettors interested in the total goal minutes market.

Andre Villas-Boas has his first game in charge at Stamford Bridge this weekend when West Brom visit and buyers of Chelsea's win index will be delighted to hear that the side have beaten the Baggies in every Premier League contest. Anyone selling the Blues' win index should be aware that the run stretches for ten league matches, where they have also outscored their opponents 29 goals to three. Total goal buyers with Sporting Index may also remember that Chelsea hammered six past the Baggies on their last trip to the Bridge.

Any spread enthusiasts that enjoy a bet on the bookings index will be interested to learn that there have been only three yellow cards handed out over the past three meetings between West Brom and Chelsea.

The defending champions face Tottenham on Monday evening and buyers of their win index will argue that Man United have not lost against their next opponents for 23 matches across all competitions.

Spread bettors looking at the match supremacy market may like to know that Spurs have managed to score only two goals against United in their last five meetings. Rafael Da Silva was sent off last time these sides faced each other and buyers of the bookings index will be hoping for another 85 point total at Old Trafford.

Trading Talk – Wimbledon 2011

With Queen's done and dusted a day later than planned, the grass court season moves onto Wimbledon and spread bettors will be hoping for another entertaining Grand Slam. Spread punters will have noted that the first two Slams of the year have gone to different players and the Sporting Index traders have installed Roger Federer as favourite for the third.
After Andy Murray's performance at Queen's, some spread enthusiasts will be inclined to back him to follow Monday's triumph with another at SW19. The Scot's spread supporters might like to know that since the tournament's inception in 1979 there have six different players to do the Queen's/Wimbledon double – Rafa Nadal was the last to manage it in 2008.

Rafa Nadal won his tenth career Grand Slam at Roland Garros and spread buyers of his win index in London will be confident of the Spaniard defending his 2010 Wimbledon title. The world number one defeated Tomas Berdych in three sets last year, which secured his second Grand Slam on grass. Interestingly, between the Spaniard and Roger Federer the pair have won every Wimbledon title since 2002. Punters looking to sell Nadal's win index might have noted his poor showing at Queen's, where he suffered a 6-7 (3-7), 6-4 and 6-1 loss to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the last eight.

Those spread punters looking to buy Novak Djokovic's win index for Wimbledon will be hoping he can continue his fine form this season that saw him go 37 matches unbeaten. The Serb pulled out of the Queen's Championship to rest and because of that his record on grass remains won 31 and lost 11. Djokovic has twice before reached the Wimbledon semis and was surprisingly beaten by Berdych in last year's tournament at the same stage.

The 2010 final was the first time in four years that it had been settled in three sets and the total games market reached 31 points. Spread punters who enjoy a bet on the total games market will likely recall the epic 2009 final between Federer and Andy Roddick as the total games sum reached 77 points. The X-courts spread market made up an impressive 361 points that year. Nadal's three set victory in last year's final only accumulated 77 points in Sporting Index's X-courts market. In the finals over the past eight years, all but one have featured at least one tie-break, five have featured two tie-breaks and three needed five sets to settle the outcome.

In the women's draw, most spread bettors will be wondering whether Serena Williams can make a successful return to SW19 after a year long absence. Those buying the younger Williams' win index will be pleased to hear that she has been victorious in the last two years and is now just one Wimbledon title behind her sister's haul of five.

Another intriguing factor for Serena's spread supporters will be that since 2000 there have only been two finals that have not featured a Williams sister. Sellers of the total games market for the women's final will be happy to find that the past four finals have only been two sets. The average total games number in that period currently stands at 19.25 games.

Trading Talk – Six Nations Final Round

After an entertaining five weeks of rugby, spread bettors are only a game away from the conclusion of the 2011 Six Nations. Those that bought England's outright index at the beginning of February (60pts to the winner, 40pts for second, 20pts for third, 10pts for fourth and 5pts for fifth) will be delighted that the side are leading the way with a game to go. England's spread supporters may be aware that barring a loss and a 42 point Wales victory in Paris, Martin Johnson's side will be crowned champions.

To achieve the Grand Slam for the first time in eight years, England must beat Ireland at the Aviva Stadium and buyers of the Red Rose's win index will be a little concerned after the performance against Scotland. Those spread bettors looking to sell England's win index against the Irish will have taken encouragement that the visitors only crossed the line once last time out.

Ireland and England have met on 62 occasions over the years and England's spread followers will be pleased to find the side edge the contests 30 to 28, with 4 draws. All of England's past three games in Ireland have finished in the host's favour. England's spread supporters must delve back to 2003 for the last victory on Irish soil – a 42-6 triumph.

Spread bettors looking to sell England's match supremacy will be interested to find that the average winning margin in the past three games in Ireland is 12.3 points. Those buying England's supremacy will be hoping to avoid a repeat of the 2007 defeat which finished 43-13.

Wales travel to Paris with the feint hope of winning the Six Nations after a controversial 19-13 victory in Cardiff. Those spread enthusiasts looking ahead to the game should note that the Welsh have been beaten on their two most recent trips to the Stade de France.

France last lost to Wales at home in 2005 and the hosts were comfortably beaten 33-5 that day. The average points total for the last five matches between these sides in France is 49.6, the largest total coming in 2001 in a 43-35 thriller edged by Wales.

The average winning margin in that five game period is 11.6 points. In this year's competition the French have scored 89 points and have conceded 82, compared to Wales' 86 points and 61.

Should Italy beat Scotland they will finish off the bottom of the table for the first time since 2007. To the delight of anyone that bought Italy's win index against the French they pulled off the shock of the tournament with a 22-21 scoreline.

Scotland have beaten Italy in seven of their eight meetings in Scotland, which will please buyers of their spreads. Sellers of the total tries market will be happy to hear that Italy failed to score a try on their most recent game at Murrayfield.

Trading Talk – Cricket - World Cup Preview

The tenth cricket World Cup is almost upon us and there is much for spread bettors to weigh-up before diving in. Starting with England, and Andrew Strauss's men are likely to have Sporting Index's spread punters particularly torn.

On the one hand, spread buyers of their outright index at 22 (winner = 60 points; runner-up = 40 points; lose semi-final = 20 points; lose in the quarter-final = 10 points; group stage = 0 points) will still be thinking of the back-to-back Ashes wins the Test side secured, including the comprehensive victory Down Under this winter. While not as fresh in the memory banks, there is also last year's triumph at the World Twenty20 to boost the same spread buyers' hopes. The experience in winning a maiden major international trophy was a huge monkey off the team's back, says all-rounder Paul Collingwood. Spread sellers of the Three Lions' outright index will be blocking this out and pointing directly to the 6-1 defeat the side suffered at the hands of Australia in their recent ODI series, with this competition taking the same 50-over format.

Sporting Index makes India its outright favourite and spread buyers at 30 of the joint-host – Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are the others – will be hoping a partisan backing will see the ICC's top-ranked Test side into at least the final in order to return a profit. Spread bettors getting with the 1983 champions in the spread betting firm's Group B Index (group Winner = 60 points, runner-up = 40 points, third = 30 points, fourth = 20 points, fifth = 10 points, sixth = 5 points, seventh = 0 points) will only turn a profit if they claim top spot. Spread sellers of India's position in this market at 42 will be relying on the combination of South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland or Netherlands to topple MS Dhoni's men.

In the other pool, Sri Lanka's Group A index spread is set at 41-44 and spread buyers will be predicting the 1996 winners of this tournament can replicate the feat they achieved then when they topped the group, romping home with a 100 percent record. To do that, the only previous host to have ever lifted the trophy, will need to finish above Australia – just as it did 15 years ago. The Michael Clarke-led one day side is top of the ICC rankings in this form of the game and spread bettors will be quoted a spread of 39-42 for the Aussies' Group A index. Australia's spread sellers in this market – and in the tournament outright index at 23 (spread 23-26) will be keeping their fingers crossed that Australia's tournament winning run ends with the hat-trick the Baggy Greens achieved when taking the crown in the West Indies four years ago.

Trading Talk – Champions League – Round of 16

The long wait is finally over as spread bettors once again turn their attentions to Champions League action and the first week should be an absolute belter. Spread punters have had plenty of time to decide their favourites for the competition and the Sporting Index traders have Barcelona at 55-58 pts to lift the trophy at Wembley.

Barca meet Arsenal at the Emirates and spread buyers of the Gunners' win index will be looking for revenge after the Catalans knocked the Gunners out of the competition last year. Those spread enthusiasts looking to sell the Barca/Arsenal match supremacy may be aware that before last weekend the visitor's had not conceded a goal in five matches – scoring 17 times. There will be concern for match supremacy sellers that the Gunners have never beaten their Spanish opposition in five meetings – producing three defeats and two draws.

Those looking to sell the visitor's win index spread may have noted that Barca have not enjoyed as much European success on the road as they have done at the Nou Camp. When Barca beat Panathinaikos in the final group game, it was their first in six away outings and that will please sellers of the club's win index.

Those spread bettors that enjoy a punt on the total goals market may have seen that Barcelona have scored ten times against Arsenal in their five meetings. The highest scoring game was in North London when the visitors ran out 4-2 winners in 1999, to the delight of goal buyers that evening. The Gunners' performance in the group stages will also offer encouragement to goal buyers given they scored 14 times in their three home fixtures.

Total goal minute punters should take note that the last time these sides met at the Emirates, all four goals in the draw arrived in the second half – reaching 259 points.
Leo Messi scored four times in the most recent clash with Arsenal and that will delight those looking for a bet on his individual performance spread. His goal minutes for that particular game accumulated 188 points on the spread. The Argentine has six goals in six European matches this year.

Tottenham travel to the San Siro once more where they face AC Milan and buyers of Spurs' win index on the spreads will take encouragement that the opposition won only one of their three home group games.

In the group stage matches the games involving Massimiliano Allegri's side averaged 2.3 goals and the highest scoring game was a 2-2 draw at home to Real Madrid. Sellers of the bookings spread may have seen that Spurs have only been handed four yellow cards in their three European away games. However, buyers will argue that Heurelho Gomes was dismissed in Tottenham's last trip to Milan – the overall points for that game totaling 65 points.

Trading Talk – Premier League Preview

Yet again there is another fantastic weekend of Premier League games for spread bettors to get involved with and after the January transfer window there are plenty of additional story lines. The match-up that most spread punters will be talking about is Liverpool's visit to Stamford Bridge, where they are likely to face former Kop idol Fernando Torres.
Roman Abramovic has recruited David Luiz and Fernando Torres in the attempt to rescue Chelsea's season and their current outright Championship Index is available to buy at 30-33. Spread bettors may recall that Liverpool ran out 2-0 winners in the clash earlier in the campaign, as Torres grabbed brace at Anfield. Spread sellers of Chelsea's win index will be a little concerned that the home side have won three of the last five meetings between the clubs.

Games between these two sides have not featured many cards of late and sellers of the bookings spread will have seen that there have been only seven yellow cards issued in the last three matches. Buyers of the bookings spread will be looking for a repeat of the game at Anfield in 2009 – the bookings total reached 95 points as Frank Lampard was given his marching orders.

Total goal buyers are likely to remember the 2008/09 season where the two sides met on four occasions – the two European encounters alone produced 12 goals in two matches. The Champions League game at Stamford Bridge was a 4-4 thriller and the total goal minutes accumulated 482 points. Those looking to sell the total goal minutes spread might argue that the past six meetings between Chelsea and Liverpool have averaged 49 minutes.

Even with Chelsea's January spending, Manchester United remain favourites on Sporting Index's Championship Index with a spread of 49-52. Sir Alex Ferguson's side travel to Molineux for Saturday's late kick off and buyers of the United/Wolves match supremacy will be happy to see that the Red Devils have beaten Wolves in their past six matches.
Those spread punters willing to take on United may recall that Ji-Sung Park scored a 90th minute winner at Old Trafford in November to deny Mick McCarthy a point. In fact, the last three meetings have all been settled by a single goal which will offer encouragement to match supremacy sellers.

Spread buyers of the last match goal may have noted that Park's last minute winner in the first league encounter with Wolves was the second United have scored against McCarthy's outfit this term. The other being in the fourth round of the Carling Cup.
Wayne Rooney's player performance spread will have sparked plenty of debate among spread bettors following his brace against Villa on Tuesday evening. Dimitar Berbatov continues to thrive in the league, he already has 19 goals but sellers of his goal minutes will be encouraged that he has only managed four on the road.

Trading Talk - La Liga Preview

With the start of the Spanish football season only a short time away, teams are playing their last pre-season friendlies and spread bettors will be completing their research before deciding where to place their money. Once again La Liga has dominated the transfer news with a number of key players moving clubs, although some spread punters will argue the biggest move was Jose Mourinho's from Internazionale. The self-proclaimed 'Special One' is now the top man at Real Madrid and any spread buyers of their outright championship index will be delighted with the appointment. Real have not won the league since 2007/08, so their spread supporters will be praying Jose can change their fortunes. Mourinho has managed to win the league at his first attempt at his previous two clubs, Chelsea and Inter.

Buyers of Barcelona's outright index will also be happy with the signings made, in particular the acquisition of David Villa. Those thinking of buying Barca's outright index will be aware Catalans have won the previous two leagues titles and possess a hugely talented squad. Goals have been a commonplace in the past two seasons for Pep Guardiola's side and spread buyers will be hoping for more of the same. Buyers of Barca's outright index will be pleased to find that the side scored 105 league goals in 2008/09 and 98 goals last season. Punters who enjoy betting on the total goals spread markets for Barca games will be pleased that the side scored an average of 2.68 goals a matchin the league last year at the Nou Camp.

Spread bettors looking outside the top two Spanish clubs would do well to look at Sevilla, who won the Copa del Rey last year. Their spread supporters will know if they can hang on to Luis Fabiano the side will be in line for another solid season. Sellers will argue that the Andalucían club are on decline, having only just beaten Real Majorca to fourth last season, needing a last minute goal on the final day of the campaign.

Valencia's chances will have been considered carefully by spread bettors as some key men have departed during the summer. David Silva and Villa contributed 29 goals to their side last season and sellers of the club's outright index will argue that losing them will seriously hinder their chances.

At the other end of the table spread punters will be looking to profit from the weaker sides. Malaga survived the drop by the skin of their teeth and spread sellers of their outright index will be hoping for relegation this time around. The bookings market might be of interest to spread bettors as the seaside team averaged three yellows cards per game last year and accumulated ten red cards.

Levante are another side that will make survival their main aim after gaining promotion in 2009/10 but spread sellers of the side's outright index will be predicting a swift return to the Segunda division. Sellers of their spread will be interested to know the last time Levante were in the top league they finished bottom.

Trading Talk - The Championship Preview

The country's spread betting public can get stuck into another year of Championship action on Friday evening as newly promoted Norwich host Watford at Carrow Road. Spread bettors will be aware that the opening weekend doesn't settle the season; however it should give a clearer idea of how managers have prepared their sides over the summer.

While football fans eagerly await the Championship to get underway, the Sporting Index traders have been hard at work setting the league's total points spreads. Those punters that enjoy a bet on the outright points index will have seen that Middlesbrough are the current favourites with a spread of 74-76 points.

Spread bettors might be interested to know that Newcastle picked up 102 points last campaign on their way to promotion and West Brom took 91 points as runner-up. Buyers of Boro's spread this year will see the potential to make a healthy profit if they do clinch the title. Since 2000, no Championship winning side has taken less than 81 points - when West Brom beat Stoke to first place in 2007/08. Those playing the league's points spread should also note that three sides have reached over 100 points in the past ten years - Newcastle last season, Reading in 2005/06 and Fulham in 2000/01.

The average points total for league winners in the same period is 95. Spread sellers of the most fancied sides' points in the Championship will be intrigued to know that the league features 17 clubs that have previously played in the Premier League. It could be a very competitive season with plenty of clubs taking points off each other.

Sporting Index predict that Bristol City will just squeeze into the play-offs in May according to the team's ranking of sixth on the outright index. The Robins' spread supporters will be encouraged by the signing of David James. Those punters debating selling the spread will be interested to know that the fewest number of points needed to gain a play-off spot in the last ten years was 70, both last year and in 2007/08. Buyers of any playoff chasing side's outright index should be aware that the most points a sixth-placed side has reached is 75 - in 2006/07, 2005/06 and 2001/02. The ten-year average is 73 points.

The relegation battle will be one for spread bettors to keep an eye on this year with so many strong sides in the division. Sporting Index have placed Scunthorpe, Watford and Crystal Palace in the bottom three on their points index - they can be bought at 48.5, 52 and 54 respectively. Spread sellers of these sides' points will do well to look back at the points totals for bottom placed sides during the past ten seasons. The lowest total the bottom-placed side managed was Stockport's 26 points in 2001/02. Punters looking to buy the Iron's spread might like to know that the highest total a side has made and still finished last since 2000 was 39 points in 2008/09 and 2002/03. The average total in the past ten seasons for the last-placed club is 35 which will please spread bettors looking to sell the weaker club's points.

Trading Talk - Premier League Preview

The race for the Premier League title has the potential to be one of the most fascinating for years and spread bettors will have plenty of opportunities to make a profit in the process. The two main contenders are likely to be Chelsea and Manchester United, which is reflected in Sporting Index's Premier League points spread market. Chelsea lead the way with a spread of 82 - 83.5 and those spread punters tempted to buy will remember the 86 points that the side scored last year. Spread buyers of Man United's points spread, at 82, will hope the team can claim their 19 th domestic league title.

Supporters of either club's outright spreads will have been disappointed with the injury news from both camps. Petr Cech will miss the opening four weeks of league action, while United's spread will have been rocked by the injuries to Rio Ferdinand and Owen Hargreaves. Wayne Rooney was poor in South Africa and spread buyers of United's outright index will need him to find club form from the off. Chelsea are going for their second successive league title and buyers of their outright index spread might be worried the side have only added the talents of Yossi Benayoun, although Michael Essien's return will be a concern to sellers of the side's outright spread.

A lot of the transfer action has revolved around Manchester City and they are third in the total points spread market at 73.5 - 75. Having already signed David Silva, Yaya Toure and Jerome Boateng, City's spread followers would argue they have a squad good enough to challenge the leaders. Spread punters willing to sell their Premier League index will count on Roberto Mancini failing to keep a healthy team spirit with so many new arrivals.

Arsene Wenger has also been fairly busy in the transfer window having secured the services of Marouane Chamakh and Laurent Koscielny. Those that have bought the Gunners' spread at 74.5 will be desperate for both to make an immediate impact, especially as they travel to Anfield for their opening fixture.

Liverpool's spread supporters know that Roy Hodgson still has a number of issues to conclude; mainly Fernando Torres' future. Punters looking to sell Liverpool's spread at 68.5 will hope Joe Cole's arrival at Anfield won't be enough to persuade the Spanish forward to remain on Merseyside. The Reds' Spanish number nine still managed to score 18 league goals from just 22 matches last year.

Other clubs' spread punters will be following with interest will be Tottenham, Everton and Aston Villa. Any spread bettor thxxat bought Spurs' outright index last campaign will have made a healthy profit from their fourth-place finish and make-up of 70. From August, Harry Redknapp will lead his team into the Champions League and sellers of their total points spread at 66 will expect the side to have trouble balancing both Europe and the League.

David Moyes' Everton side have added Jermaine Beckford, who along with fit again Mikel Arteta will offer plenty of encouragement to their outright point buyers at 62. Spread bettors that have sold Aston Villa's points at 61 maybe foresee Martin O'Neill's side again succumbing to fatigue towards the end of the season.

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