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(Image: GETTY)

Glen Manning, 44, staked £2 at 750/1 on Theo Walcott to open the scoring in the match and for it to finish 4-4.

It was an inspired punt from the North Yorkshire coach builder – as Walcott scored first before the thrilling game saw Liverpool hold out for a dramatic 4-3 win.

He must have had his heart in his mouth during the closing stages of the game, as Arsenal battled in vain to grab an equaliser – and earn him a big pay-out.

(Image: GETTY) (Image: GETTY)

But despite the bet falling agonisingly short, bookmakers Paddy Power have decided to pay out the whopping £1,500 windfall.

Glen said: "I couldn’t believe I was so close, I really thought I’d done it.

"After Theo Walcott missed his penalty I thought that was that – but to come so close is incredible.

"When Paddy called me I was shocked – I had to ask if it was a prank call!"

But luckily for Glen, it was no prank and he's now got the enviable dilemma of what to do with all his extra dosh.

A spokesman for Paddy Power said: "It’s exactly this sort of inspired craziness that we respect – a couple of hours ago, most would have scoffed at Glen’s bet.

"Now, we all can’t believe how close he was.

"As the punters’ champion, we thought it was only right that we paid out on this one – Glen clearly knew what he was talking about."