England offer value option

England look a value bet to beat France in their international in Paris on Wednesday night.

The Three Lions are available at 23-10 with several firms and that looks a big price, with the England squad having everything to play for/prove under new coach Fabio Capello and France’s recent efforts making them anything but bet-compelling.

Capello has certainly wasted no time stamping his authority on the England job and his decision to hand Rio Ferdinand the captaincy speaks volumes for his unblinkered approach. The Manchester United defender had been an 8-1 chance to get the role.

England were workmanlike, rather than spectacular, when beating Switzerland 2-1 in Capello’s first match in charge last month.

It was an encouraging start, though, and Capello will be anxious to win again and help create a feelgood factor after England’s failure to reach the European Championship finals.

His final line-up remains something of a mystery but David Beckham is expected to win his 100th cap and is 5-1 with Ladbrokes to surpass Bobby Moore’s 108 caps and lead the outfield players’ role of honour. Perhaps, more significant, Frank Lampard is also set to return.

France are 11-10 with most firms but the evidence of their past two friendlies - they drew 2-2 with Morocco in November and lost lost 1-0 to Spain last month - makes that look a skinny price. And those who fancy them to win Euro 2008 at a best price of 9-1 should remember that Scotland beat them 1-0 away from home in September.