West Bromwich Albion
Under the astute guidance of Italian Roberto Di Matteo West Brom quietly negotiated their way back into the Premier League with an 'easy on the eye' style of play.
The acquisitions of Nicky Shorey from Aston Villa and Steven Reid from Blackburn could give Brom some much needed Premier League experience but it may not be enough as I see an immediate return to the Championship on the horzon.
Prediction: 19th
West Ham United
With Gianfranco Zola gone and Avram Grant as his replacement there have been some notable changes at Upton Park, not least in terms of playing staff.
The most notable additions include New Zealand defender Winston Reid, German Thomas Hitzlsberger and Portsmouth old boy Frederic Piquionne.
Grant could go on to prove that his former emplyers across London made a mistake in sacking him two years ago after narrowly missing out on Champions League glory.
Prediction: 13th
Wigan Athletic
Wigan's Latin American scouting system have been utilised once more after signing Mauro Boselli for 6 million pounds from Argentinian club Estudiantes.
Coach Roberto Martinez will be hoping he can have a similar impact to previous Latin American imports, such as Hugo Rodellega, Antonio Valencia and Wilson Palacios.
If he does not, Wigan may find themselves back in the Championship after eight seasons in the top flight.
Prediction: 18th
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Mick McCarthy has been busy raiding last season's relegated clubs as he looks to secure Premiership status for a second season.
Stephen Hunt and Steven Mouyokolo have arrived from Hull City along with Steven Fletcher from Burnley, all for a combined 12 million pounds.
These buys should enable the club to stay in the Premier League, but not without a tough fight.
Prediction: 17th
Friday, August 13, 2010
Premier League Preview
Newcastle United
A welcome return to the top flight for the Magpies after just a one season absence should ensure that they have enough experience to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
Acquiring Dan Gosling on a free transfer from Everton might help their cause but it is not known as to whether Sol Campbell's ageing limbs, nevermind his expanding waist, are up to the task.
Thier home form, though, should see them have enough to retain top flight status.
Prediction: 15th
Stoke City
This week manager Tony Pulis splashed out 5 million quid (rising to 8 million, depending on appearances/success) on Kenwyne Jones in the hope that he can provide the firepower that Stoke require to maintain their place at the top table.
With the sale of James Beattie imminent, aligned with the arrival of Jones, some might say Pulis is jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire.
However, if he can extract the best from Jones, Stoke should avoid relegation - but only just.
Prediction: 16th
Sunderland
After a frenetic summer of transfer activity in 2009, this summer has been somewhat quieter in the North East.
The departure of Kenwyne Jones could turn out well for both sides mainly due to his troublesome relationship with boss Steve Bruce.
Also where there is Darren Bent there are goals, at least at this level.
Sunderland should be well clear of any relegation scrap. In fact, they may even be looking towards Europe, if not from their league position then via one of the cups.
Prediction: 9th
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs are another side who have been unusually quiet on the transfer front this summer. Much of that could be dependent on the outcome of the Champions League qualifier with the Young Boys of Bern.
Should they negotiate that tie much of Spurs' season will be occupied with their European exploits which could hamper them as they try to retain their top four status.
Ledley King's knees are not getting any better and Jonathon Woodgate may never kick a ball again so these could be tough times for the North Londoners.
Nevertheless, Champions League football will be a sight to behold at White Hart Lane this season and being at the foot of the table under Juande Ramos is but a distant memory.
Prediction: 7th
A welcome return to the top flight for the Magpies after just a one season absence should ensure that they have enough experience to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
Acquiring Dan Gosling on a free transfer from Everton might help their cause but it is not known as to whether Sol Campbell's ageing limbs, nevermind his expanding waist, are up to the task.
Thier home form, though, should see them have enough to retain top flight status.
Prediction: 15th
Stoke City
This week manager Tony Pulis splashed out 5 million quid (rising to 8 million, depending on appearances/success) on Kenwyne Jones in the hope that he can provide the firepower that Stoke require to maintain their place at the top table.
With the sale of James Beattie imminent, aligned with the arrival of Jones, some might say Pulis is jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire.
However, if he can extract the best from Jones, Stoke should avoid relegation - but only just.
Prediction: 16th
Sunderland
After a frenetic summer of transfer activity in 2009, this summer has been somewhat quieter in the North East.
The departure of Kenwyne Jones could turn out well for both sides mainly due to his troublesome relationship with boss Steve Bruce.
Also where there is Darren Bent there are goals, at least at this level.
Sunderland should be well clear of any relegation scrap. In fact, they may even be looking towards Europe, if not from their league position then via one of the cups.
Prediction: 9th
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs are another side who have been unusually quiet on the transfer front this summer. Much of that could be dependent on the outcome of the Champions League qualifier with the Young Boys of Bern.
Should they negotiate that tie much of Spurs' season will be occupied with their European exploits which could hamper them as they try to retain their top four status.
Ledley King's knees are not getting any better and Jonathon Woodgate may never kick a ball again so these could be tough times for the North Londoners.
Nevertheless, Champions League football will be a sight to behold at White Hart Lane this season and being at the foot of the table under Juande Ramos is but a distant memory.
Prediction: 7th
Premier League Preview
Liverpool
Whether or not new owners are in place before the end of August is open to debate but what is not is that things may just be on the up at Anfield. Roy Hodgson replacing Rafa Benitez at the helm has had a calming influence on the club and star players Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have been retained due to the belief that the corner may have been turned.
The acquisition of Joe Cole could turn out to be an inspired one on Hodgson's behalf and Milan Jovanovic could set the Premier League alight if his World Cup performances are anything to go by.
However, the loss of Javier Mascherano can only weaken Liverpool's midfield and it might just be enough to prevent them from making a return to the top four.
Prediction: 5th
Manchester City
Well, where do you start with a team that are set to break the 100 million pounds barrier with the seemingly inevitable signing of Mario Balotelli.
Coach Roberto Mancini will be under immense pressure to deliver, not just a Champions League spot, but a trophy to Eastlands this season.
The former has to be a distinct possibility but it could be the latter that costs him his job.
Prediction: 4th
Manchester United
Javier 'Chicarito' Hernandez should help ease the goalscoring burden on Wayne Rooney as United look to erase the memory of losing their domestic title to Chelsea.
The new contract signed by defender Nemanja Vidic will be a welcome relief to Sir Alex Ferguson and the continued development of Johnny Evans at the heart of their defence will also help, particularly in the continued absence of Rio Ferdinand.
Much will depend on how quickly Rooney overcomes his World Cup blues but if he hits the ground running the Red Devils will be difficult to stop.
Prediction: 1st
Whether or not new owners are in place before the end of August is open to debate but what is not is that things may just be on the up at Anfield. Roy Hodgson replacing Rafa Benitez at the helm has had a calming influence on the club and star players Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have been retained due to the belief that the corner may have been turned.
The acquisition of Joe Cole could turn out to be an inspired one on Hodgson's behalf and Milan Jovanovic could set the Premier League alight if his World Cup performances are anything to go by.
However, the loss of Javier Mascherano can only weaken Liverpool's midfield and it might just be enough to prevent them from making a return to the top four.
Prediction: 5th
Manchester City
Well, where do you start with a team that are set to break the 100 million pounds barrier with the seemingly inevitable signing of Mario Balotelli.
Coach Roberto Mancini will be under immense pressure to deliver, not just a Champions League spot, but a trophy to Eastlands this season.
The former has to be a distinct possibility but it could be the latter that costs him his job.
Prediction: 4th
Manchester United
Javier 'Chicarito' Hernandez should help ease the goalscoring burden on Wayne Rooney as United look to erase the memory of losing their domestic title to Chelsea.
The new contract signed by defender Nemanja Vidic will be a welcome relief to Sir Alex Ferguson and the continued development of Johnny Evans at the heart of their defence will also help, particularly in the continued absence of Rio Ferdinand.
Much will depend on how quickly Rooney overcomes his World Cup blues but if he hits the ground running the Red Devils will be difficult to stop.
Prediction: 1st
Premier League Preview
Chelsea
Chelsea are not the only team near the top of the table, but there is a feeling that the Blues have stood still this summer, depsite the additions of Brazilian midfielder Ramires and Yossi Benayoun from Liverpool.
Benayoun will be no more than a squad player and Ramires may take time to adapt to English football.
Furthermore, the departures of Joe Cole and Ricardo Carvalho, nevermind the continued unhappiness of Ashley Cole, can only harm the champions.
A susceptibility at the back was offset by a flurry of goals last season but if John Terry and Petr Cech continue their decline do not expect an ageing squad to perform such heroics again.
Prediction: 2nd
Everton
Desite a slow start, including a 6-1 home defeat to Arsenal, Everton narrowly missed out on a European place last season.
In fact, aside from Chelsea and Manchester United, they were the top points scorers in the second half of the season.
Furthermore, the retention of Steven Pienaar and, in particular, Mikel Arteta can only strenghen David Moyes' hand.
Without the cloud of Joleon Lescott that hung over the Toffees at the beginning of last season and if they can steer clear of the debilitating injuries that disrupted them last term then expect Everton to fly and push for a Champions League place.
Prediction: 6th
Fulham
Despite what was widely recognised as a successful season last term, mainly due to their Europa League exploits, Fulham finished the domestic season limply, ending up 12th after being in the top half for most of the campaign.
The loss of manager Roy Hodgson, who was described by owner Mohammed Al Fayed as a "Bugger", cannot be underestimated.
Nevertheless, incoming head coach Mark Hughes should be able to steady the ship. Whether that will be enough to convince goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer that he should stay at Craven Cottage is another question entirely.
Prediction: 12th
Chelsea are not the only team near the top of the table, but there is a feeling that the Blues have stood still this summer, depsite the additions of Brazilian midfielder Ramires and Yossi Benayoun from Liverpool.
Benayoun will be no more than a squad player and Ramires may take time to adapt to English football.
Furthermore, the departures of Joe Cole and Ricardo Carvalho, nevermind the continued unhappiness of Ashley Cole, can only harm the champions.
A susceptibility at the back was offset by a flurry of goals last season but if John Terry and Petr Cech continue their decline do not expect an ageing squad to perform such heroics again.
Prediction: 2nd
Everton
Desite a slow start, including a 6-1 home defeat to Arsenal, Everton narrowly missed out on a European place last season.
In fact, aside from Chelsea and Manchester United, they were the top points scorers in the second half of the season.
Furthermore, the retention of Steven Pienaar and, in particular, Mikel Arteta can only strenghen David Moyes' hand.
Without the cloud of Joleon Lescott that hung over the Toffees at the beginning of last season and if they can steer clear of the debilitating injuries that disrupted them last term then expect Everton to fly and push for a Champions League place.
Prediction: 6th
Fulham
Despite what was widely recognised as a successful season last term, mainly due to their Europa League exploits, Fulham finished the domestic season limply, ending up 12th after being in the top half for most of the campaign.
The loss of manager Roy Hodgson, who was described by owner Mohammed Al Fayed as a "Bugger", cannot be underestimated.
Nevertheless, incoming head coach Mark Hughes should be able to steady the ship. Whether that will be enough to convince goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer that he should stay at Craven Cottage is another question entirely.
Prediction: 12th
Premier League Preview
Blackburn
Rovers, like so many clubs in the middling area of the league, will find it hard to break into the upper echelons. Nevertheless, it is clear that manager Sam Allardyce is trying to build something, much like he did with Bolton.
Blackburn will remain difficult to beat but need to improve on the away form, particularly in the goalscoring department which is presumably why Allardyce moved for the loan signing of Mame Diouf from Manchester United. Much will be expected of him to provide the goals to propel Rovers up the league.
Prediction: 10th
Blackpool
Even with a decent sized squad you would imagine that Blackpool would struggle, particularly as they finished more than 30 points behind Championship winners Newcastle en route to promotion, but Pool cannot boast more than 16 professional players at the time of writing.
Undoubtedly manager Ian Holloway will provide plenty of colour to the Premier League with his unique style of management.
However, that style is likely to be witnessed for just the one season as they will struggle against the big boys.
Prediction: 20th
Bolton
Since taking over, Owen Coyle has slowly improved Wanderers, both in terms of style of play and results, and I expect that steady improvement to continue this season.
The free transfer signing of Martin Petrov from Manchester City could turn to be the transfer of the summer (he's already scored in pre-season), though the loss of Jack Wilshire after returning to Arsenal from his loan spell will come as a blow.
Nevertheless, attaining Niko Klasnic on a permanent deal from French club Nantes can only aid Coyle as he attempts to lift Bolton into the top half of the table.
Prediction: 11th
Rovers, like so many clubs in the middling area of the league, will find it hard to break into the upper echelons. Nevertheless, it is clear that manager Sam Allardyce is trying to build something, much like he did with Bolton.
Blackburn will remain difficult to beat but need to improve on the away form, particularly in the goalscoring department which is presumably why Allardyce moved for the loan signing of Mame Diouf from Manchester United. Much will be expected of him to provide the goals to propel Rovers up the league.
Prediction: 10th
Blackpool
Even with a decent sized squad you would imagine that Blackpool would struggle, particularly as they finished more than 30 points behind Championship winners Newcastle en route to promotion, but Pool cannot boast more than 16 professional players at the time of writing.
Undoubtedly manager Ian Holloway will provide plenty of colour to the Premier League with his unique style of management.
However, that style is likely to be witnessed for just the one season as they will struggle against the big boys.
Prediction: 20th
Bolton
Since taking over, Owen Coyle has slowly improved Wanderers, both in terms of style of play and results, and I expect that steady improvement to continue this season.
The free transfer signing of Martin Petrov from Manchester City could turn to be the transfer of the summer (he's already scored in pre-season), though the loss of Jack Wilshire after returning to Arsenal from his loan spell will come as a blow.
Nevertheless, attaining Niko Klasnic on a permanent deal from French club Nantes can only aid Coyle as he attempts to lift Bolton into the top half of the table.
Prediction: 11th
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Premier League Preview
Arsenal
The addition of Laurent Koscielny to the backline can only solidify an occasionally shakey defence. Moreover, the free transfer arrival of Marouane Chamakh will almost certainly turn out to be another fine acquisition by Arsene Wenger.
Chamakh looks like he has the makings of doing really well, whether it be as a foil for Van Persie, or as the lone frontman in the Dutchman's absence, which was sorely missed last season.
Nevertheless, the most important movement, or should I say lack of, is that that of Cesc Fabregas staying at the Emirates, at least for one more year.
My gut feeling is that will be it (just one more year), in similar circumstances to that of Christiano Ronaldo in 2008 when he decided to give it one last shot on these shores before heading off to pastures new.
However, for real improvement upon last year I think a goalkeeper is necessary, preferably an experienced one, and Mark Schwarzer of Fulham remains a distinct possibility.
Prediction: 3rd
Aston Villa
Even before the resignation of Martin O'Neill things were looking pretty bleak for Villa and thngs have hardly improved with the Northern Irishman's departure just five days before the season begins.
The seemingly inevitable departure of James Milner will not help either but the talent at the new manger's disposal still indicates a European place is possible.
Nevertheless, at least some of the money from Milner's transfer will have to be invested or it could turn out to be a long season ahead for the Villains.
Prediction: 8th
Birmingham
Alex McLeish will undoubtedly fear the 'second season' syndrome effect that has hit so many sides.
However, the astute acquisiton of Ben Foster aligned with an already strong backline should ensure Premiership safety.
Furthermore, there is still money available should McLeish wish to add to his squad.
Whether the Blues have enough to improve on last season's heroics, though, is another matter.
Prediction: 14th
The addition of Laurent Koscielny to the backline can only solidify an occasionally shakey defence. Moreover, the free transfer arrival of Marouane Chamakh will almost certainly turn out to be another fine acquisition by Arsene Wenger.
Chamakh looks like he has the makings of doing really well, whether it be as a foil for Van Persie, or as the lone frontman in the Dutchman's absence, which was sorely missed last season.
Nevertheless, the most important movement, or should I say lack of, is that that of Cesc Fabregas staying at the Emirates, at least for one more year.
My gut feeling is that will be it (just one more year), in similar circumstances to that of Christiano Ronaldo in 2008 when he decided to give it one last shot on these shores before heading off to pastures new.
However, for real improvement upon last year I think a goalkeeper is necessary, preferably an experienced one, and Mark Schwarzer of Fulham remains a distinct possibility.
Prediction: 3rd
Aston Villa
Even before the resignation of Martin O'Neill things were looking pretty bleak for Villa and thngs have hardly improved with the Northern Irishman's departure just five days before the season begins.
The seemingly inevitable departure of James Milner will not help either but the talent at the new manger's disposal still indicates a European place is possible.
Nevertheless, at least some of the money from Milner's transfer will have to be invested or it could turn out to be a long season ahead for the Villains.
Prediction: 8th
Birmingham
Alex McLeish will undoubtedly fear the 'second season' syndrome effect that has hit so many sides.
However, the astute acquisiton of Ben Foster aligned with an already strong backline should ensure Premiership safety.
Furthermore, there is still money available should McLeish wish to add to his squad.
Whether the Blues have enough to improve on last season's heroics, though, is another matter.
Prediction: 14th
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