Picks for 10 Dec, 2008

HOT PICK: GRENOBLE
Top Picks: Fiorentina (DRAW), Celtic.
Additions: AaB Aalborg, Zenit St Petersburg.

Match analysis are as follows:

1) Grenoble (+3/4 on AH)
Ratings: 9/10
Originally slated for 29th Nov, this postponed match provides Grenoble with a chance to get back on track after some disappointing results (4 draws out of last 6). Nice have one of the best home records, being 1 of 4 remaining unbeaten teams at home. A closer look, however, will reveal that they tend to draw almost as much as win - and mostly by 1 goal difference. Stats also suggest that Grenoble has a 72.73% to grab at least a draw here, especially when their away stats read an average of 1.17 goals scored as well as concede in all competitions. A small punt on outright win for the away team is worth trying too.

2) Fiorentina (outright DRAW)
Ratings: 8/10
Bottom two of Group F square up for the opportunity to participate in the UEFA Cup as the top 2 teams of the group are already assured of qualifications. With Steaua expected to attack for the win to overtake their opponent, Fiorentina will soak up the pressure and defend for a draw. The Italians are tough to break down, and considering that they have yet to draw in their last 8 away matches, the odds look tasty for an outright DRAW as a point is enough for Fiorentina to sneak into the UEFA Cup knockout round.

3) Celtic (-1/4 on AH)
Ratings: 8/10
Most might dismiss this match as irrelevant but a closer look at Group E's table will reveal some interesting points. Villareal, together with Man Utd, have already qualified BUT Celtic still has an UEFA Cup spot to play for. Trailing AaB Aalborg by 3pts, Celtic can sneak through the back door with a win should Man Utd defeat AaB at home. Traditionally strong at home, Celtic has the advantage to make this tie count as Villareal will be distracted by their upcoming league fixtures against the top 5 teams consecutively - namely Sevilla, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Valencia - in the following weeks!