The World Cup qualfiers kick off this weekend and England, even at their worst, will surely make it through to the 2010 World Cup.

The bookmakers are confident England will do it, pricing them at 1/4 to do so and indeed most firms make them odds-on to top group six too, although VC Bet are offering even money.

Croatia are 13/8 (Betdirect) to finish first and with Ukraine the only other realistic challengers – but not the force they once were – then it's looking like a two-horse race. If you're desperate to have a bet on England, it's probably wise to see how England do in Croatia next Wednesday before taking the plunge.

Tomorrow, England will undoubtedly enjoy a relatively straightforward victory against Andorra. Totesport's offer of 11/2 on a 3-0 win for Fabio Capello's men looks the best bet.

In the weekend's other games, injury-hit Wales should still have too much for Azerbaijan at home (2/5, Ladbrokes), while Scotland are 13/10 to win in Macedonia.

Henry next for cash-rich City?
FOOTBALL: Manchester City have turned football on its head following their success in out-bidding Chelsea for Robinho's signature and Paddy Power are betting on who will be the next shock signing to Mark Hughes' squad.

Barcelona striker Thierry Henry is the 11/2 favourite to be the next big name arriving at Eastlands. City's summer target, Ronaldinho, and David Villa are both 15/2.

Europe to make it a fabulous four
GOLF: The golf scene this month will be dominated by the Ryder Cup, with Europe chasing a fourth straight victory.

The USA haven't won it since 1999 and I can't see the pattern changing at Valhalla.

Europe deserve to be outright market leaders (5/6, Ladbrokes) this time and not simply on Ryder Cup matches, which have seen Europe dominate.

Tiger Woods aside – and he won't even be playing – the Europeans have been playing the better golf around the world and producing it in the Majors. Not just with Padraig Harrington, but the likes of Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia as well.

Those who fancy the tie, a result that would be enough to retain the cup for Europe, can get 12/1 at Betdirect and Partybets.

Robinho hurts the bookies
FOOTBALL: Party bets.com were forced to make some massive payouts following Robinho's shock move to Manchester City on transfer deadline day.

When the news broke of City's takeover by Abu Dhabi, the firm were quick to offer odds on a host of future markets for Mark Hughes' side.

They made Robinho a crazy 66/1 to be wearing a City shirt by this time next year, ensuring several lucky punters walked away with more than £1,500 for a £25 stake.

Bet of the week
Back England to win 3-0 in Andorra tomorrow (totesport, 11/2)