While the Premier League is known for having arguably the best atmospheres in the world of football, supporters will soon have to get used to games being played in near silence. As a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, frequent discussions are being held regarding a potential resumption in June, providing that fixtures are played at neutral venues. Although it is a topic which will inevitably divide opinion, there is every chance that it could become the new norm until the global crisis is brought to an end. From a bookmakers perspective, it may lead to changes when it comes to compiling betting odds, and punters will also have to reassess their previous preferences in order to maximise their returns.
When considering your Premier League bets at Spbo Bet, Liverpool will naturally receive a lot of attention as they bid to end their three-decade wait for a top-flight crown. Assuming that the current schedule remains the same, Jurgen Klopp's side will return with a Merseyside derby against Everton, which has the potential to be a surreal experience for all involved given the usual decibel level created by their respective fans. Nevertheless, a neutral venue, and a desire to secure the title as soon as possible, should lead to Liverpool hitting the ground running against opposition who must push for maximum points as they look to move closer to the top seven. Liverpool should be avoided if and when they become champions but for now at least, they should be everyone's first pick.
However, Manchester City and Manchester United should also benefit from playing at neutral venues. Although there is an argument that playing away from the Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford will be detrimental to their ambitions, you also have to take into account that teams will be less defensive if they do not have to face the two North-West giants on away territory. With that in mind, expect some dominant performances from the sides managed by Pep Guardiola and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, especially against teams who are in mid-table and have little to play for.
United have already had experience of playing behind closed doors this season and came through that experience with a 5-0 victory over LASK Linz in the Europa League. That match was played on the same day as Wolverhampton Wanderers faced Olympiakos in the same circumstances in Greece, and Nuno Espirito Santo's should be better for the experience. You should also take into account that Wolves play with a style of play which requires discipline, something which they have been able to enforce regardless of their surroundings. In theory, playing in an empty stadium should not hinder the West Midlands side, who are motivated to claim a spot in the top six.
As far as the bottom half of the table is concerned, keep an eye on Southampton. Given their poor record at St Mary's this season, Ralph Hasenhuttl will be happy enough with any decision to play away from their South-coast home, while six victories have already been registered in 14 away games since the beginning of August. The Saints have some tough fixtures to come, most notably against the two Manchester clubs, but be ready to take advantage of some generous betting odds involving Southampton in the coming weeks and months.
