Irish bookmakers Paddy Power have paid out a total of £400,000 to punters who backed Chelsea to win the Premier League, despite more than half of the season remaining.

Jose Mourinho’s men have already opened up a four-point lead at the top of table and will break the 100-point barrier if they keep up their formidable form.

For those struggling to comprehend Paddy Power’s decision, this remarkably, isn’t the first time the infamous tweeters have rewarded customers so early in the season. In fact, this is late by the standards they set nearly decade ago.

Ironically, during the 2005/06 campaign it was Mourinho’s Chelsea once again setting the early pace, and within just a month of the season, Paddy Power had already crowned Chelsea champions.

The bookmakers were correct on that occasion, but not all have been so fortunate.

In 1998, Betfred founder and Manchester United supporter Fred Done paid out over £500,000 with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side 12 points clear of rivals Arsenal, only to see the Gunners clinch the title.

Fourteen years later and Betfred would repeat history, paying out another £500,000 with his beloved United five points clear of rivals Manchester City with only a month remaining.

On this occasion, Christmas has come early, with one punter sent to reap £22,400 and 44 others having placed at least £1,000 on Chelsea to win.

Picture Credits: Paddy Power