1. Research is Key: Before placing any bets, research teams, players, form, injuries, and historical match-ups. The more informed you are, the better your betting decisions will be and the more you will be able to spot over and under priced opportunities.

2. Understand the Odds: Familiarize yourself with different types of odds (fractional, decimal) and how they represent probabilities. Understanding odds helps you assess potential returns accurately.

3. Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses by betting more than you can afford or "doubling up" on your next bet. Responsible bankroll management is crucial for long-term success. (And above all, it ensures your gambling remains a safe, enjoyable activity.)

4. Shop Around for the Best Odds: Compare odds from multiple bookmakers to ensure you're getting the best possible value for your bets. Even slight differences in odds can significantly impact your profits over time. You’ll even occasionally come across arbitrage opportunities based on different odds offered, allowing you to back all match outcomes and make a profit either way.  

5. Focus on Specific Markets: Instead of spreading your bets across numerous markets, specialize in a few where you have a deeper understanding. Whether it's match outcomes, goal totals, or individual player stats, specialising can lead to more informed decisions. Develop your knowledge and back yourself when it comes to placing your bets.

6. Consider Value, Not Just Winners: Look for bets where the odds offered by bookmakers underestimate the likelihood of an outcome occurring. Betting on value increases your long-term profitability, even if it means betting against the favourite. This goes hand in hand with your specialist knowledge - the bookies have to cover every market available. You can focus on one or two.

7. Stay Disciplined: Avoid impulsive betting decisions based on emotions or “gut feelings”. Stick to your pre-defined strategies and only place bets when the conditions meet your criteria. This is the most important rule for maintaining your account balance and the difference between professional and amateur gamblers. If a bet loses, just accept it and start the next round afresh. 

8. Keep Your Emotions in Check: Don't let biases cloud your judgment. Assess matches objectively and bet based on probabilities rather than personal preferences. Never back a team just because you're a fan. Challenge yourself to stop and think whenever you want to back ‘your’ team.

9. Utilize Betting Exchanges: Betting exchanges like Betfair allow you to bet against other punters, offering more flexibility and often better odds than traditional bookmakers. Explore the possibilities of laying bets to hedge or minimize risks.

10. Track Your Bets and Learn from Mistakes: Keep a record of your betting activity, including wins, losses, and the reasoning behind each bet. Analysing past performance can help identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in your betting strategy. Most online bookies will have a variety of "My Account History" features allowing you to see your wins/losses and net deposits/withdrawals over time.

Remember, patience, research, and discipline are the keys to long-term profitability.

Bonus top tip: If you don’t yet have a betting account, make sure you get a good sign up deal. All the online bookies offer them and most will offer something like "Deposit £10 and get an additional £30 in free bets". These free bets are usually paid in credits (so if your bet wins you only get the profit element back) but it’s great value and will allow you to hone your football betting skills at low risk.