Ipswich v Derby

Let’s jump in right away, shall we?

Let’s be honest, Ipswich are as good as relegated, and I’m backing Derby to heap more misery onto Paul Lambert’s beleaguered side.

With James Collins still injured and top-scorer Freddie Sears out for the season, Town’s already slim chances against Derby have pretty much evaporated.

The Tractor Boys have lost seven of their last eight in The Championship, and Derby, who have a middling away record (three away wins in seven), will see this as a great chance to snatch up three crucial points.

This should be an away win.

Derby - 1pt @ 23/25

Preston v Norwich

Now for the first of two away wins: I’m backing Norwich to beat Preston at Deepdale.

This one is a little touch-and-go considering Preston are unbeaten in five, but with no win at home since December 15th. Norwich – who have won seven of their last 12 away games (drawing the rest) – will still feel this is very winnable, particularly because they’re ferociously chasing promotion.

There’s no doubting the task that lies before Norwich is a tough one on Wednesday, but considering their last away result was a 3-1 victory at Elland Road, there’s no reason why they can’t do the business against Preston.  

Norwich - 1pt @ 21/20

Wigan v Stoke

Interestingly, Stoke – who have lost six of their last eight league matches – are favourites to beat Wigan at the DW.

This is despite the fact that the Latics have won consecutive home games against Aston Villa and QPR, and Stoke (who haven’t scored in three matches) are winless on the road since October.

Wigan’s abysmal away record sees them fighting for their lives towards the bottom of the league, although – barring a three-game blip last month – they’ve been very strong on their own turf, which is why I’m backing them to win.

Priced at a pretty massive 48/25, Wigan to register a third straight home win against such an out-of-form Stoke side is a big tempter.

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Wigan - 1pt @ 48/25