Despite the twists and turns in the transfer market, the overall picture hasn't changed since last season, which means United and Chelsea are operating within different parameters to the rest.

Liverpool fans will point to Robbie Keane as a reason they can finally make a decent challenge, but it's going to need a lot more than him.

Other than the Irishman, Rafa Benitez has signed nothing but squad players. It's very hard to see how they can close the gap.

The same goes for Arsenal, where Arsene Wenger has been losing key players rather than adding quality to his side.

United and Chelsea have occupied the top two positions now for the past three seasons and must be snapped up again (13/10 Coral) to do so again in May.

Those who agree with the top two remaining there next season and Liverpool jumping up a spot could play bet365's tricast markets.

Man Utd-Chelsea-Liverpool pays 10/1 with Chelsea-Man Utd-Liverpool 11/1.

Constantine and Akinfenwa to net first?
FOOTBALL: The Cobblers are best priced at 11/5 to continue their winning run and beat MK Dons at stadium:mk tomorrow.

The same firm go 11/5 for the draw, as do Skybet, while Dons can be backed at 9/4 with several bookies to net their first victory in Coca-Cola League One at the Cobblers' expense.

Leon Constantine and Adebayo Akinfenwa are both 15/2 with bet 365 to net first.

Avil's in with a shout of medal
olympics: Northampton's Hollie Avil is 26/1 eighth favourite to swim, bike and run her way to Olympic gold in the triathlon on Monday morning.

The Bugbrooke athlete will face stern competition from pre-race favourite Vanessa Fernandes though, who can be backed at just under 3/1.

Roade rider Tim Stockdale is way out at 50/1 to be crowned Olympic champion in the equestrian individual jumping, which takes place on Sunday and Monday in Hong Kong.

Stockdale's best chance of a medal looks to be in the team event next Thursday, where Team GB are fourth favourites to win gold at 7/1, behind Germany 2/1, Holland 6/1 and USA 6/1.

Leeds go even further clear
FOOTBALL: Leeds are now just 9/4 (Betfred) to win Coca-Cola League One after last weekend's 2-1 win at Scunthorpe and the 5-2 midweek success against Chester. Leicester are the 4/1 second favourites.

The Cobblers are now 8/1 for an unlikely title win, thanks to the 4-2 victory over Cheltenham last Saturday.
FOOTBALL: Everton are nicely priced at evens to beat Blackburn on the opening day of the Premier League season tomorrow.

The Toffees might be without Andy Johnson now, but they are still a good side, particularly at Goodison.

Blackburn have lost boss Mark Hughes and midfielder David Bentley and new chief Paul Ince has his work cut out.

Bet of the week
BACK Manchester United and Chelsea to finish as the top two in the Premier League.