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Antonio Valencia scores for Manchester United
Champions already? One bookmaker thinks so. Photograph: Anna Gowthorpe/PA
Champions already? One bookmaker thinks so. Photograph: Anna Gowthorpe/PA

He thinks it's all over: bookie pays out on Manchester United title win

This article is more than 11 years old
Betfred declares title race over with seven games remaining
Same bookmaker lost £500,000 in 1998 after paying out early

A Manchester United-supporting bookmaker has tempted fate once again by paying out on his side retaining the Premier League title – even though there are still seven games remaining this season.

Monday's 2-0 win over Blackburn Rovers moved United five points clear of Manchester City and Betfred's Fred Done has risked the ire – and possible ridicule – of the blue half of Manchester by declaring the race already over.

Done lost £500,000 in 1998 when he was the first bookmaker to pay out early on the league winners. United were 12 points clear of Arsenal at the time, but went on to lose the title by one point.

"Back in 1998 Fergie told me to never pay out early again but Sir Alex need not worry, I've not got it wrong this time," he said. "United are past the post for a record 20th title. Even with the derby to come a five point lead is just too much for City."

However, despite writing City off this season, Betfred has installed them as 7/4 favourites for the 2012-13 title.

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