Hi 

We're getting that little bit nearer to the start of the football season, but to help the time pass a little quicker, I thought I would send you my tips on who I will be backing at The Open this year. 

As with any of the majors it's often tough to pick just one player from a field of 150+. This difficulty increases even more with addition that it's The Open and a certain type of player is often favoured on these courses.

Before we dive into my bets, I wanted to let you know that Sky Bet are paying a massive 10 places for each way bets this week (both new and existing account holders). It's by far the biggest I've seen, plus couple that with a £20 free bet when you place a bet of just £5 seems to be the best place to bet this week. 

The Open Picks (links will add straight to betslip)

Rickie Fowler - Fowler has been showing some great form this year with 4 top 10's from his last 5 starts. He often goes well in The Open as well and loves links golf. I think this could be Rickie's year and at 15/1 looks the best bet from the favourites. 

John Rahm - The spaniard is taking the golfing world by storm at the minute. He's been the most consistent player on tour over the last 12 months and won only last week at the Irish Open. He's going to be really tough to beat and I think he's ready for the big stage. 

Alex Noren - Probably the most underrated player in world right now, Noren is currently ranked 9th in the World Golf Rankings and is playing great. He's had a win just a month ago and 4 top 10's this year already and 4 wins in 2016. He's also won previously on links at the Welsh Open, so know's what's required to get the job done. At 45/1 he's a great each way bet.

Ian Poulter - An outside pick, most definitely but Poulter has been showing signs of form these last few weeks. Given that it was only a couple of months ago he was in trouble of losing his Tour card, the Englishman has made a typical Poulter-like bounce back to form. He's also shown in recent weeks that his game is in good shape, with a top 10 finish at the Scottish Open and T2nd at The Players a couple of months ago. Again, another good Each way bet.

Whilst looking through the Sky Bet site to see what offers they had on, I found a couple of interesting specials bets that I think I will be getting on. They aren't as big a price as above, but I think offer great value. 

Talk to you soon,

Jon