He’s already turned a significant profit and could well make significantly more, but one Ladbrokes punter would still have some mixed feelings if Leicester is to pull off one of the great sporting fairytales and win the English Premier League.
The man, from regional New South Wales, made eight separate bets totalling just $55.80 on Leicester winning the league, three bets worth $16 at $5001 prior to the season starting and a further five worth $39.80 at $3001 after it had begun.
For that, his potential collect was $199,400.
“I’m not sure whether he’s a genius or a die-hard Leicester fan but, either way, it was some masterful punting on his part,” Ladbrokes Head of Media, Roger Oldridge said.
But here is the catch. The man has cashed out all but one $4 bet of his initial wagers, made at odds of 5000-1.
“He’s made $6000 already and stands to collect another $20,000 if they pull it off, provided he let’s that ride,” Oldridge said.
Another shrewd Ladbrokes customer saw enough early days to outlay $80 at 80-1. He is yet to cash any out and stands to collect $6400 if Leicester claims the crown.
Having started the season at $5001, Leicester is now a $4 shot with Ladbrokes, the same price it was to be relegated before the opening game.
As short as $3 prior to last night’s game, Leicester has eased on the back of its loss to Arsenal, who is now $2.40 outright favourite.
Tottenham is giving its fans a rare chance to dream with 12 matches remaining with Spurs now into a $3.40 second favourite after beating Manchester City, who has drifted to $6.
Leicester is by far Ladbrokes worst result with more bets on the apparent minnow than any other team.
“Punters just love a fairytale … and a pay day,” Oldridge said.
