Odds quoted are from Paddy Power This column has long held the conviction that bookies put too much stock in footballing tradition rather than form. Monaghan are now in uncharted territory, and as tough as their quarter-final draw is, it still affords them the precious gift of motivation . . . Kerry in Croke Park, nobody's giving us a chance lads, let's play. It's a daunting task though, and as much as we think Monaghan have been undervalued all season, Kerry remain an embarrassment of riches. The handicap is dangerous too, with no better team than Kerry to add a few "attering grace notes once the game is dead. We do reckon if Monaghan aren't beaten by their own jersey, as Roy Keane might say, they'll give this a serious rattle. Their star performer for the last few seasons has been Tommy Freeman (right) and he's vital to any hopes they might have of winning. For the truly optimistic, you can get 40-1 that he nets first and Monaghan go on and win. But we reckon a more likely outcome is Freeman stepping up to accept the man-of-the-match award. He's always been a standout player, and even if Kerry win through with a workmanlike display, he may still be the most obvious talent on show and a popular choice.

BACK FULHAM TO BEAT ARSENAL TODAY 9-1

Odds quoted are from Paddy Power It seems like only yesterday we were recommending a punt on Fulham to upset the odds at the Emirates Stadium. In fact it was only three and a bit months ago but we're not about to let complaints of self-plagiarisation get in the way of a good bet. Back in late April, Fulham were on the verge of relegation and we predicted a rambunctious underdog display from Lawrie Sanchez's side. As it happened, they were limper than a gay limpet's wrist but were still a missed header away from leading with "ve minutes left. Having kept his side up, Sanchez has made some intriguing signings and may be quietly creating one of the season's surprise packages. If he can bring the best out of David Healy and Diomansy Kamara and combine it with the proven quality of Brian McBride, Alexei Smertin and Jimmy Bullard, his side might be safe quicker than many expect. Arsenal have lost their obvious talisman but will also be without the inspiration of Gilberto Silva for their opening "xtures.

Without himself and Thierry, Fulham are capable of springing the biggest opening weekend surprise.

So crazy it just might work. . .

BACK GARETH SOUTHGATE TO BE NEXT PREMIER LEAGUE MANAGER OUT OF A JOB 12-1 Odds quoted from Paddy Power He did a reasonable job last season, but Gareth Southgate (right) looks long odds to get a big red boot out the door if results don't go Middlesbrough's way. Mark Viduka's goals will be hugely missed and with rumours swirling about Yakubu's departure, it would be little surprise to see Boro in the basement come November.