I think I’m gonna pass by the bookies today. The one nearby closed down recently – its probably got something to do with the online gambling explosion – but I can’t  do all that. I only bet a couple of times a year anyway – the national and perhaps the odd game or two. But today I’m gonna try and put a bet on the 5 champions of Europe.

1. France – Marseilles
2. Italy – Inter
3. Spain – Barca
4. Germany – Bayern
5. England – Arsenal

Yes, it all looks safe until Arsenal pop up, but I need the odds to be interesting don’t I? Otherwise, I suppose I can put Chelsea in on that bet and just do a  separate bet for just the Premiership where Arsenal are at around 8 or 9/1. Maybe its sad that I’m having to splash a bit of cash on the football to excite myself these days. In previous years there’s been no need to add to the excitement so what’s changed?

Well, the football has become a touch more predictable I suppose, and the overexposure probably hasn’t helped. From an Arsenal point of view I only went to one game last season - that was a Carling cup game where season ticket holders don’t get to go unless they buy separate tickets and I have to say the atmos was far better than on normal games. In fact, last season I rented out my season ticket as I wanted to experience a season without my walk to the Emirates.

The thing is I didn’t really miss it! I would never have predicted that but its the truth – I needed a break… but I’ll be back this season – and I’ll try and catch myself a few away ties too – they’re the best – the real atmosphere’s in the back of places like Everton or Aston Villa.. Yeh, I’m in the mood – bring it on!