Rooney heads top Euro 2012 bets as knockout stages approach

As the knockout stage of the European championships are now upon us, there is no shortage in the amount of markets available to bet on for Ladbrokes customers.

England’s progression to the last eight will ensure that patriotic punters maintain an interest too, and markets regarding the Three Lions kick off our selections.

Wayne Rooney to be top England scorer at 6/4

After marking his return from suspension with the winner against Ukraine, Wayne Rooney has been installed as clear favourite to top score for England at the tournament.

Rooney wasn’t at peak fitness when his solitary strike saw him join his team-mates at the top of England’s goal charts, and with improvement expected in the knockout phase, he looks a great call to outscore his colleagues at 6/4.

Steven Gerrard to be Player of the Tournament at 20/1

Whilst sceptics remain unconvinced that England can go all the way at Euro 2012, captain Steven Gerrard’s inspirational displays could go a long way to ensure progression.

The Liverpool midfielder has already racked up three assists and a man-of-the-match accolade in Poland and Ukraine, and is growing in stature with each performance at the tournament.

Though he may be seen as a far-fetched chance against the more glamorous profiles of Mesut Ozil and Cristiano Ronaldo, he looks massive at 20/1 to be named Player of the Tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo to be top tournament scorer at 7/2

Although Portugal are unfancied to go all the way in the tournament, the two games they are expected to have remaining may be all Ronaldo needs to land the Golden Boot award.

The Real Madrid star inspired his side to victory over Holland in their final group game, turning in a stellar performance in which he scored twice.

That double put him just one goal behind leading tournament scorer Mario Gomez, and the free-kick and penalty specialist looks worth investment at 7/2.

Spain stage of elimination – quarter-final at 13/8

Whilst this is certain to be the most eyebrow-raising of the selections, the performances so far of the pre-tournament favourites have suggested they could be set for an early exit.

The defending champions remain second-favourites to win the competition, but with tactical uncertainty rife, and meeting a France side that has lost only one in their last 24, they may have their work cut out, and be sent packing at 13/8.

Exactly three matches to go to extra-time at 3/1

As the fear of sudden elimination sets in at the knockout stage of the tournament, value can be found in backing a number of matches to reach extra-time.

The more tentative approaches of sides often contributes to draws after 90 minutes, and with three knockout ties going to extra-time in the past three European championships, the trend could continue at 3/1.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.