Liverpool are currently sitting at the top of the Premier League table with an 11-point lead over second-placed Arsenal, but with 11 games still left to play, Betfred boss Fred Done has made the bold decision to pay out over £1 million to punters who backed the Reds, believing the title race is effectively over.

A history of early payouts

Fred Done has a bit of a reputation for early payouts, this being the tenth time he’s made this move in the Premier League. And his track record is impressive, making the right call seven out of nine times.

However, one of his biggest miscalculations came in 1998 when Manchester United was sitting in a 12-point lead. Betfred paid out early, only for Arsenal to stage a stunning comeback and claim the title. As a die-hard United fan, Done must have felt that one.

All publicity is good publicity

You might wonder why a bookmaker would take such a risk with so many games left to play. But in reality, early payouts generate significant publicity and goodwill; the move ensures Betfred remains in the spotlight, and punters always appreciate getting their winnings early.

Fred Done acknowledged the emotional weight of his decision, saying, “As a lifelong Manchester United fan, it pains me having to pay out on Liverpool winning the Premier League title for a second time. After this weekend’s results, I believe the writing is on the wall and Liverpool will win the league this season in convincing fashion.”

But Betfred isn’t the only one making this call. Paddy Power also paid out early on Liverpool’s title win, doing so after Arsenal’s shock 1-0 home defeat to West Ham.

Could history repeat itself?

Football is known for its unpredictability. Just ask Leicester City, who defied 5000/1 odds to win the Premier League in 2016. There’s still a lot of football left to play, and at this point nothing is guaranteed.

However, under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have only dropped points in two games since the turn of the year; a draw at home to Manchester United and another away to Nottingham Forest, so if they maintain this form it’ll be tough for anyone to catch them.

The question is, has Fred Done jumped the gun? Whatever happens, Betfred has ensured that the last 11 games of the season will be even more intriguing.

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