One of the most unpredictable Premier League seasons for years can be summed up by comparing pre-season odds to the numbers now at the halfway stage -- with Leicester City’s title odds slashed from 5,000-1 to 14-1 after their stunning start.
Claudio Ranieri’s side, who needed a remarkable late charge to avoid relegation last season, are flying high in second place and are now rated 11-10 for a top-four finish, compared to 200-1 in August according to British bookmaker William Hill.
Converesly, champions Chelsea were 7-4 favourites to retain their title but now, having sacked manager Jose Mourniho and languishing in 14th place, they are 150-1. Their top-four ambitions, initially a 1-33 shot, are now rated 10-1.
League leaders Arsenal and Manchester City are 11-8 joint favourites (from 7-2 and 3-1) to win the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur at 8-1 to take the honours for the first time since 1961, from 150-1 at the start of the season.
At the foot of the table Aston Villa are 1-16 for relegation, compared to 5-2 pre-season.