Do your research for maximum football returns

Betting on football has always been popular, with fans flocking to high street shops en route to grounds on a Saturday afternoon, but online betting makes it easier and gives the customer much more choice.

There are so many different markets available to punters it can be a bit of a minefield but, whatever you bet on, it is important to do your research beforehand to ensue you have the best possible chance of getting a return.

There are numerous previews available both in print form and online prior to any match and the best football predictions will carry statistics to back up what the author feels may happen over the 90 minutes.

Despite the many markets available, betting on the full time result is still the most popular and possibly the most exciting of all wagers, as you can live through your bet with every kick of the game.

Look for trends in a team’s performances, whether they are solid away from home and generally play for a draw, or do they have a cavalier coach who likes to attack at even the toughest grounds.

There are clubs who seem to falter at certain stadiums, with Tottenham struggling to come to terms with their temporary Wembley home during last season’s Champions League run, and they were always a good bet to be beaten or held to a draw at home.

Team selection and injuries to key players both need to be considered when placing a football bet, as some sides have a strong 1^st XI but no strength in depth.

It is possible to bet on the number of goals scored in a match, with the under/over market popular and again, delve into the history between teams to improve your chances of success.

Some clubs are known to favour long ball tactics and if they are matched against one with solid central defenders and defensive midfielders, then quite often they will cancel each other out.

It may not be much of a spectacle to watch but those who have bet on under 1.5 goals to be scored could be quids in!

It is possible to bet on the number of corners won by a team and obviously, here you must look for the side that is likely to enjoy the most possession and will spend the majority of the game close to the opposition goal.

There are far too many bets to list them all but, as a general rule, bet with your head, not with your heart.

You may want a side to win but put your hard-earned cash on the one you think will win.

Make sure you do not get too greedy with accumulators. These can be lucrative but predicting one correct result can be tricky at times so to get five is like winning the lottery!

Finally, steer clear of friendlies as they are notorious for being ‘coupon busters’ and rarely represent what would happen if points or trophies were up for grabs.

Pre-season games are a real betting no-no as players tend to conserve themselves for the campaign ahead and they can throw up some unusual results.

Have patience with your football bets as you are not going to win all the time, with the nature of the beautiful game meaning there will always be shock results to ruin your day.