With the UEFA Europa League kicking off this evening, William Hill have boosted the price on any English team to win the competition to 11/2.
Let’s take a look at the sides contesting this season, and their chances of making it a third English team in as many years to win the competition.
Bournemouth are the shortest priced of the three English contenders at 9/1, and they begin their European campaign with arguably the toughest opening assignment of the trio as they travel to Spain to face Real Sociedad.
Bournemouth’s progression has been one of the more notable stories in English football in recent seasons, and a strong run in Europe would represent another significant step forward for the club.
They have a difficult first hurdle to clear, but if they can come through it, 9/1 could look increasingly interesting as the competition progresses.
Crystal Palace enter the Europa League as 16/1 shots to lift the trophy and will be hoping to make a flying start when they welcome Lech Poznan to Selhurst Park.
Europa League football represents a significant milestone for Palace after Conference League glory, and they have been handed a home tie against opponents they will expect to beat.
A positive start could be particularly important given the demands of navigating a European campaign alongside domestic football. At 16/1, Palace are further down the outright market than Bournemouth but have the European pedigree and their opening fixture provides an excellent opportunity to build some early momentum.
Sunderland are the biggest-priced of the three English teams at 18/1, but they have been given an ideal opportunity to make an early statement when AZ Alkmaar visit the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland are just 1/2 to win, with AZ 5/1 and the draw available at 16/5.
The prospect of a home Europa League night will be a major occasion, and victory against a strong Dutch side would immediately provide Sunderland with a significant boost.
Their 18/1 price means there is plenty of ground to make up on the leading contenders, but a strong start could change the complexion of their campaign quickly.
The opening round
All three English sides face very different tests, but there is a realistic possibility of seeing each begin with three points.
Sunderland and Crystal Palace are both strong favourites at home, while Bournemouth face a considerably tougher challenge away from home.
With the boosted odds of 11/2 offered on any English team winning the competition, the three sides give punters three different routes into the boosted market.
Bournemouth have the shortest outright price, Palace have the advantage of a favourable home opener, while Sunderland can make a statement in front of their own supporters.
A third consecutive English winner would continue the country’s impressive recent record in the competition, but the first step is navigating the opening round.
Prices accurate at time of writing – odds subject to change.
