NOTE: THIS WAS ALL FINALISED ON WEDNESDAY EVENING/THURSDAY MORNING, SO ANY SUDDEN DEADLINE DAY TRANSFERS WON'T HAVE BEEN ADDED IN.
'The Premier League is one of the most difficult in the world. There's five, six, or seven clubs that can be the champions. Only one can win, and all the others are disappointed and live in the middle of disaster.'- Jürgen Klopp
Well, well, well, look who has decided to come crawling back into our lives. You entertained us all with some exquisite World Cup action that led to a very prestigious award ceremony, but now you're back to create more fun and excitement?! Football, you are relentless. Bringing forward Transfer Deadline Day wasn't enough for you- always wanting more, forever hungry. Oh, who am I kidding. It's good to have you back in our lives, football. Bring on the new league season and let's get ready to embrace the madness.
Friday 10th August will be the curtain raiser for the 2018/19 Premier League season, as Manchester United entertain Leicester City at Old Trafford, in what will hopefully set the standards for another season of twists and turns. After Arsenal's 4-3 victory over Leicester in last season's opening fixture, fans will be craving another enthralling encounter to get them in the mood for the new season. Shirts are flying off the shelves in the club shop, police forces prepare themselves to deal with any potential violence when two rival teams square off against one another, and the ever-suffering partners of football nuts roll their eyes and mutter 'Here we go again' under their breaths. It's the most wonderful time of the year.
The eyes and ears of fans now begin to turn towards the pundits and betting companies, each presenting their own cases and odds as to who shall triumph and falter in the year ahead. Each have their own prejudices (Garth Crooks, for example, will never tip Arsenal to win anything of note) and those tantalising 2000/1 odds on Cardiff City winning the league sure look good. I mean, who doesn't love a good underdog story, especially one that makes you richer? With new players and managers making their way into the top flight of English football, all ready to do battle with the experienced veterans of seasons gone by, fans just can't contain themselves. Some are even tempted to write their own predictions and potentially open themselves up to ridicule, especially when their World Cup predictions were slightly off the mark. Still, at least one is bound to be correct... right?
It's hard to think of a good format for writing out a season's worth of predictions without going on for hours, breaking the sanity of both reader and writer. So let's try this: 20 teams, a brief preview of each and predictions for Golden Boot and Player of the Year thrown in for good measure. Sound good? Let's hope so.
LAST SEASON: 1st, League Cup Champions
MANAGER: Pep Guardiola
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Manchester City's attack is a thing of beauty. Sergio Agüero refuses to let age slow him down, especially when being fed by Kevin de Bruyne and Fernandinho. With Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sané and Gabriel Jesus, their style of play (fast attack, dominate possession, high press) is perfect for these nimble players. Don't change what isn't broken. With Pep eyeing to win absolutely everything this year, his incredible attack will deliver him into the realms of legendary managers.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: City's love of attacking leaves them exposed at the back, which is a joy for sides like Liverpool who have their own counter-attacking prowess. Weaker sides will happily let City have the ball and hit them on the break as well. Frustrating and disrupting the champions will be how all opponents operate when facing the best side in England. Also, can they top how they played last season? The bar is set high, and that might put on some extra pressure as City defend their title. Maybe they should have paced themselves when it came to breaking records.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Riyad Mahrez will make City's attack even more deadly. After major defensive spending last summer, adding yet another attacker seems wise, although one more world-class midfielder will make Manchester City far too good. Although business has been pretty quiet, there doesn't need to be any drastic changes. After all, can they really fit any more superstars into this team? Wait, don't answer that question.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Which one to choose? They're all so good, and each brings something great to the team, whether it's Sergio's finishing or Vincent Kompany's refusal to be beaten by injury. Think it might be Kevin de Bruyne, who will end up being Player of the Season as well. It will be an award he rightly deserves, and will be part of his challenge to win himself World Player of the Year. The Belgian, in a team full of superstars, is THE superstar.
2: LIVERPOOL: WHAT CAN KLOPP DO TO GET THE KOP BACK ON TOP?
LAST SEASON: 4th
MANAGER: Jürgen Klopp
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Much like Manchester City, Liverpool's strength lies up top with Mohamed Salah, Golden Boot winner last year with 32 goals. Sadio Mané and Roberto Firmino complete a terrifying triumvirate that dazzled their way to the Champions League Final. Expect no different at Anfield this season, especially with Naby Keïta, Fabinho and Xherdan Shaqiri now playing for Liverpool. They should have finished second last year, but let's just say one or two individuals let them down...
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Liverpool drew 12 times last year, and threw away leads for fun at times. It was mostly down to Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius being careless, with the latter suffering from a concussion during the Champions League Final. Not even Virgil van Dijk and his status as world's most expensive defender could stabilise the nerves of the man between the sticks. Liverpool need to be more confident in holding a lead, and just stick to their game. Nothing stupid, nothing ground-breaking; just play the Liverpool way.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Amazing business done this summer, signing Shaqiri and Keïta to bulk up an already deadly attack. But Alisson is the goalkeeper Liverpool desperately needed. Another transfer record smashed by Liverpool, so can Alisson justify the £56 million value? Jürgen will be praying to every deity just to make sure. I wonder how many times one club can break the transfer record for a goalkeeper?
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Plenty of young talent coming through at Anfield, among them Trent Alexander-Arnold in a fullback role. Jordan Henderson and James Milner keep on chugging away at the heart of midfield, showing the grit English players have in the face of age and adversity. But it will be Mohamed Salah, but the Prince of Egypt won't hold on to his Golden Boot. Fantastic in front of goal last season, and fans will hope that a dire World Cup campaign will be out of his mind once the ball gets rolling on the weekend.
3: MANCHESTER UNITED: WARY OF A MOURINHO MELTDOWN
LAST SEASON: 2nd
MANAGER: José Mourinho
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Manchester United are stacked with great attacking talent (Romelu Lukaku, David de Gea and Alexis Sánchez, for example) but it's David de Gea in goal that is the real star of the show. Without him, United would be dead in the water. Praise be to the Spaniard with the weird haircut that pulled out so many incredible saves last year that it's amazing he hasn't left the club yet. Thankfully, Thibaut Courtois has gone into hiding to force through a move to Real Madrid, so looks like he is staying put in Manchester. That should keep the fans happy.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Relying on your goalkeeper, an ageing defence, star players failing to perform; all terrible, but the fault lies in the manager. Expect a 'third season meltdown' from José, whose philosophy of 'parking the bus' means attacking talent is going to waste, especially with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford warming the bench in anger. Even with Rashford given the number 10 shirt, it won't be surprising if he keep being overlooked when the starting line-ups are announced. What a waste.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Fred, since he's the only major one. Bids are being made for Leicester's Harry Maguire and Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld, but it might be a little too late. Fred is still a decent midfielder though, and will enjoy playing with the pacey Jesse Lingard and the veteran Juan Mata. They still need a centre-back, though.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: If no new defender is signed, expect David de Gea to once again come to the rescue. But, by some sort of divine intervention, Manchester United get a new centre-back, then Romelu Lukaku might see a lot more of the ball to pad up those stats. Either way, it will be one of these two that might just give Mourinho a reason to stay for another year. But realistically, put some money on Mourinho having a strop due to a conspiracy to stop him winning the league, resigning in disgust as he begins his new life as a hermit dedicated to bringing down the forces of evil working in the shadows.
4: TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR: NORTH LONDON REMAINS WHITE
LAST SEASON: 3rd
MANAGER: Mauricio Pocchettino
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Who else but Harry Kane? Granted, Tottenham have World Cup winner Hugo Lloris in goal, but Spurs would be nowhere without the spitting but brilliant England captain. After winning the Golden Boot out in Russia, it should be a massive psychological factor in leading the Spurs line. A new home awaits the men from North London, and Harry will make sure that fans forget the bad luck that follows teams who move to a new stadium (Arsenal and West Ham can testify to that). Kane always finds a way to drag Spurs into the lead, but in a brilliant and masterful way. Another rampant season for the England captain is on the cards.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: The squad depth is bad. One major injury to Kane, Dele Alli or Christian Eriksen and Pocchettino will have to root around on his hands and knees to find a good enough replacement. Spurs supplied 9 players for teams in the World Cup semi-finals, so fatigue will be an issue at the start of the season. Don't be surprised if the squad are transported from game to game by armed guards that have them confined in bubble wrap.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Uuuummmm, the stadium? Not a sausage, I'm afraid. Jack Grealish could arrive from Aston Villa, but the clock is ticking down. Maybe check the phone connection? Get the fax machine out? Smoke signals?!
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Harry Kane (obviously), who shall get back his Golden Boot on his way to masterminding England's World Cup glory in 2022. It's written in the stars really. We shouldn't argue with fate. Dele Alli is another young England talent, with French hero Hugo Lloris in goal and the Belgian duo of Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen enforcing in defence. Tottenham look good, and Kane is the poster boy.
5: ARSENAL: LIFE AFTER WENGER
LAST SEASON: 6th
MANAGER: Unai Emery
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Having Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for a whole season is wonderful, but a new era at Arsenal means expectations are low, meaning the pressure is off. Players like Mesut Özil (now free of Germany duty) and Alexandre Lacazette therefore may not be a chastised as much this season, giving them a bit more freedom to play their game. The departure of Arsène Wenger may lead to problems similar to the ones seen at Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson left, but with a manager with plenty of success on the continent (Emery won 3 Europa Leagues at Sevilla, for example) then nerves may be settled. Besides, 'Unai Out' doesn't sound as catchy as 'Wenger Out'.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Arsenal are way behind their rivals, even with a new manager and plenty of good talent to pick. Wenger was reluctant to change his system, and now the players have to settle into a brand new one. The exciting new era at the Emirates will be one of transition, with Thursday night football being a drain on resources as well. Arsenal need consistency, which was lacking so much last year, to muster a decent challenge. Depth will be key this year, especially in cold nights away to obscure Swedish teams that play on the side of a mountain.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Amazingly, Arsenal have spent money again in a transfer window, with Bernd Leno (goalkeeper), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (centre-back), Stephan Lichtsteiner (left back) and Matteo Guéndouzi (midfielder) being snapped up. Of all the signings, Lucas Torreira is the most exciting as he is the defensive midfielder Arsenal have needed for years. Young and physical, the Uruguayan could be the key to Arsenal's success. Emery knows what needs to be fixed, and has used the funds to make sure the squad is stronger compared to last year.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The Premier League only got a glimpse of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang last year, who scored 10 goals in 14 appearances. With best buddy Henrikh Mkhitaryan supplying him, it could be a fruitful season for the man from Gabon. Mesut is still keen to stay at Arsenal, and Aaron Ramsey continues to impress despite contract talks stalling. We should all look forward to plenty of acrobatic celebrations from Mr Aubameyang as Arsenal reach the balmy heights of 5th.
6: CHELSEA: A YEAR TO REBUILD
LAST SEASON: 5th, FA Cup Champions
MANAGER: Maurizio Sarri
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Much like Arsenal, a new manager is a breath of fresh air. Antonio Conte may have guided Chelsea to the title in his debut season back in 2016/17, but a weak title defence and bad attitude meant the man had to go. Sarri led Napoli to 2nd in Serie A last year, 4 points behind Juventus, with their slick football being the stuff of envy across Europe. That passion to turn the most unlikely of sides into contenders is what Chelsea need right now.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: It's a transitional year for Chelsea, and Thibaut Courtois has disappeared and miraculously found himself in Spain. Eden Hazard remains unsettled, so it appears that people are willing to jump ship rather than play under Sarri's system of accurate passing to build a fast attack. It may be his lack of trophies driving players away, which implies a degree of snobbishness among the Chelsea squad in that only the best will do. It will prove costly as they slide down the table.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Robert Green... just kidding, it's Jorginho. Pinched from Manchester City, the playmaker is a great passer and looks to spring attacks every time the ball touches his feet. He will champion Sarri's style of play, and show the Chelsea boys how it's done. Except Courtois, since Real Madrid have found him hiding in a laundry hamper in Madrid. After this intriguing development, Madrid have allowed Mateo Kovačić to join Chelsea on loan, which isn't a disaster after a solid outing for Croatia at the World Cup. In celebration, Chelsea have spent £71 million to bring in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao and break the transfer record for a keeper. Wow, football is crazy.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Thibaut Courtois is gone, so things will be interesting. Eden Hazard had a fantastic World Cup, and looks set to stay at Stamford Bridge to find his club form once again. Yet Jorginho will be the pivotal player this season due to being the man to show the squad how to play under Sarri. The new manager needs his big money signing to bring home the bacon, and Jorginho has a hankering for some bacon sandwiches. Anyone else hungry?
7: EVERTON: ALL HAIL JORDAN PICKFORD
LAST SEASON: 8th
MANAGER: Marco Silva
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Another new manager, and once again another club hoping to forget last season. Ronald Koeman dreamed of challenging for a spot in Europe, but ended up sacked by October 2017. When Sam Allardyce came in, fans were angry at his boring style of play, and his departure was not seen as a disaster. Now, with Marco Silva in charge, whose spell at Watford last season provided great attacking displays, Goodison Park can look forward to staying awake for games. Oh, and they have Jordan Pickford, whose marvellous saves in Russia will be sought after in the coming season.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Everton aren't brilliant when it comes to transfers. Last summer, they signed three number 10's (Wayne Rooney, Davy Klaassen and Gylfi Sigurdsson) for a combined total of £63 million, with no replacement for Lukaku who sauntered off to Manchester United. Their defence is ageing fast, with Leighton Baines not the formidable left back he once was and Phil Jagielka planning on how to spend his pension. Silva will need to control the spending to provide some stability to Everton, and only spend the money in areas that need improving.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: The signings of Lucas Digne and Richarlison is a good indication of what Silva wants; a rejuvenated defence and someone who can score some bloody goals. Richarlison was prolific at the start of last season for Watford under Marco Silva, but soon faded away into obscurity. The £50 million spent on the 21-year-old means there is massive pressure to perform, but at least Everton have someone who can score goals.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Richarlison and Sigurdsson will combine well up top, but all eyes should be on Jordan Pickford. The man ousted Joe Hart from the role of England's first choice keeper, and proved all critics wrong in his role for England at the World Cup. Everton are lucky to have him, and will be even luckier to hold on to him for the coming seasons.
8: WEST HAM UNITED: BACK IN BUSINESS
LAST SEASON: 13th
MANAGER: Manuel Pellegrini
BIGGEST STRENGTH: New players, new manager, new attitude; West Ham's biggest strength is their ambition. Moving to the Olympic Stadium was the first step in breaking into the Premier League elite, and now the investment is paying off. Turbulent performances over the last few seasons has made many wonder if leaving Upton Park was a good move in the first place. West Ham are beginning to settle, and with the successful Manuel Pellegrini on the touchline, they might just fit snuggly into the Europa League places.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: West Ham have been busy in the transfer window, signing the likes of Jack Wilshere on a free transfer from Arsenal and Andriy Yarmolenko arriving from Borussia Dortmund. On paper, brilliant. In reality, dubious. West Ham signed a lot of fringe players, or ones that had very poor seasons ruined by injury or poor form. It will be difficult to integrate so many new players into a squad that now has to play under a new style of play based around possession and quick attacks.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is a great buy at £7 million after being Swansea's only positive to take away from their season of woe and relegation. West Ham broke their transfer record to bring in centre-back Issa Diop for £22 million. Yet breaking that record again in getting Felipe Anderson for £35 million is unbelievable considering he had been linked with moves to clubs like Manchester United. The attacking midfielder will be a fine addition to Pellegrini's collection.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jack Wilshere can look to Oxlade-Chamberlain as a shining example of Arsenal players getting their careers back on track after moving to a new club, so will be desperate to shake off the tag of being a liability. However, after Marko Arnautović became the great success of the David Moyes experiment at the end of last season, he should prove vital once again. 11 goals earned him Hammer of the Year in 2018, so expectations are high once again.
9: LEICESTER CITY: PARTY ON, JAMIE
LAST SEASON: 9th
MANAGER: Claude Puel
BIGGEST STRENGTH: If there is one thing Leicester City do well, it's upsetting the odds. Scintillating escapes, unlikely Premier League triumphs; you can't keep them down. The euphoria of winning the league still hangs around the King Power Stadium, with the whippet Jamie Vardy staying loyal to the club that hoisted him up from the peripheral of non-league football.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Riyad Mahrez has packed his bags and left for Manchester, and that stings. Vardy's loyalty is to be admired, but losing a player of that calibre isn't going to be an easy fix. Mahrez was hand on hand to provide attacking flair and partner up with Vardy in reminding teams of Leicester's ability to execute good counter-attacks. With the Algerian gone, it's possible that Leicester's hopes of a European spot may have gone too.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: With Riyad gone, Claude Puel knows that he needs to change the system from focusing attacks out wide to one utilising the centre. Signing 21-year-old James Maddison from Norwich City for £22 million is the catalyst behind the system change, and is one to watch in years to come. Capturing Ricardo Pereira from Porto and Jonny Evans from West Brom will be a sigh of relief for Harry Maguire and goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, as they cannot be expected to save Leicester at the back all by themselves.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The spotlight is on Jamie Vardy, the man who refuses to leave. It will be a big morale boost to teammates to see him remain after being the subject of interest from clubs like Arsenal since 2016, and a continued stint in Leicester may show the likes of Maguire and Schmeichel to ignore the big sides and stay where you are. After 20 goals last year, Jamie Vardy is as prolific as ever.
10: BURNLEY: WE'RE ALL GOING ON A EUROPEAN TOUR
LAST SEASON: 7th
MANAGER: Sean Dyche
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Burnley are very hard to breakdown, and only conceded 39 goals a game last season. Not bad for a team tipped to be rooted to the bottom of the Premier League. Manager Sean Dyche drilled into his defence the need to block and anticipate shots, whilst maintaining a defensive shield around Nick Pope in goal. Squeezing out vital low scoring wins ensured Burnley finished in 7th (their highest league finish since 1974) and entered European competition for the first time in 51 years. Turf Moor, get ready for European football.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: There are a few plaguing the Clarets heading into the new season. A good defensive record shouldn't cover up the lack of goals, and questions remain of where these goals will come from. Losing Chris Wood to injury meant the goals dried up, so another long-term injury could prove costly. Playing in the Europa League will bring in fans and revenue, but the strain of playing midweek will cause fatigue in abundance. Indeed, after such an excellent season, can they do it all again? Judging by a lack of transfer activity, it appears not.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: A shoulder injury to Nick Pope meant Sean needs a keeper, and he has found one. Joe Hart, excommunicated by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and sentenced to loan spells, has finally found a home at Burnley. He may have lost his place as England's top goalkeeper, but has years of European and international experience that will come in handy as Burnley look to repeat the success of last season.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: James Tarkowski was on stand-by for England's World Cup squad, and was a deserved name on that list. It would have been nicer to be on the plane, but an impressive stint in the heart of Burnley's defence earned him a nomination for Player of the Year in the 2017/18 season. For a side that love to defend, Tarkowski will be integral to Burnley and their exciting European adventures.
11: NEWCASTLE UNITED: STABILITY AT LAST
LAST SEASON: 10th
MANAGER: Rafa Benitez
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When Rafa Benitez strolled into St James' Park in March 2016, Newcastle United were destined for the drop. After cruising to the Championship title in 2017, Benitez then capped off his 3rd season at Newcastle by finishing 10th. The man is a genius, and Newcastle need him. After glory with Liverpool, Inter Milan and Napoli, it's incredible that a manager of such calibre and greatness has stuck around for so long. Newcastle are a great club, but the managerial roundabout has not distracted Rafa from what he wants to build up in Newcastle.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Behind the scenes, Newcastle are a mess. Owner Mike Ashley is looking to sell the club, and that looks like a saga that will be drawn out for a while. In the meantime, no money is being invested into the squad, leaving Rafa a very unsatisfied man. If support from greater powers is still wanting, then Newcastle would need to find a new manager as well as a new owner.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: With a limited transfer budget, Rafa needs to work his magic, and has been pretty successful this summer. Ki Sung-yeung joins on a free from Swansea, and Salomon Rondon will be instrumental in leading Newcastle's attack. Getting Chelsea's Kenedy on loan once again is a great piece of business, as he showed what Chelsea were missing in his 3 month spell under Benitez. Kenedy could be the latest Chelsea prospect that leaves Stamford Bridge and finds greater success elsewhere.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Centre-back Jamaal Lascelles showed that there was still talent knocking about at Newcastle, but the redemption of Jonjo Shelvey last season makes him pivotal this year as well. He started the season with a red card against Tottenham, and finished it by being an outside chance of being part of Gareth Southgate's World Cup squad. The Lord Voldemort lookalike has plenty to offer.
12: WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS: HOW THE HELL DID THEY GET THOSE PLAYERS?!
LAST SEASON: 1st in the Championship
MANAGER: Nuno Espírito Santo
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Wolverhampton Wanderers destroyed all who came before them last year in the Championship. The club has a sturdy structure, a budget to survive and thrive in the Premier League and plenty of talent to excite any football fan. It appears that Santo's good relationship with agent Jorge Mendes has worked wonders for Wolves with the calibre of players they have signed. Put a fiver on them to win the league! You never know...
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Walking the Championship to secure a return to the top flight is wonderful and everything, but Wolves are with the big boys now. Excellent recruitment and playing fast, possession dominating football worked well last year, but now you have defenders like Harry Maguire, Vincent Kompany and Tony Alderweireld in your way. It won't be a walk in the park, and Wolves need to keep their feet on the ground, or those bigger sides will take aim and fire.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: When news broke that Wolves had paid nothing to sign Rui Patricio, Portugal's goalkeeper from their Euro 2016 campaign, everyone lost their minds. It's the transfer of João Moutinho for £5 million, however, that really takes the cake. Another Portuguese talent, Moutinho will relish the chance to play in the Premier League due to being an adventurous playmaker. Seriously, Wolves could easily break into the top half of the table.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Rúben Neves will partner Moutinho in midfield, and will be desperate to outdo his Portuguese teammate to prove who the top dog is. Great passing, not afraid of going forward and only 21; very likely to be a good pick for Young Player of the Year if he can continue his impressive form from last year
13: SOUTHAMPTON: LAST SEASON, FORGET ABOUT IT
LAST SEASON: 17th
MANAGER: Mark Hughes
BIGGEST STRENGTH: The main problem for Southampton over the years is how they've been deemed a 'selling' club, or more accurately a feeder club for Liverpool (Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mané, Nathaniel Clyne etc.). When these players left, there weren't replaced with the same calibre of players and last season Southampton got a rude awakening. This time around, Mark Hughes looks to have brought in talent that might just do the job. Having players that can give the crowds at St Mary's something to cheer for is by far their biggest strength.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: 37 goals from 38 games; bear in mind that Southampton were threatening to break into the Champions League places a few years ago. Charlie Austin's fitness left him out for large parts of the season, and now he will be the main point of attack with Dušan Tadić moving to Ajax. Both Manolo Gabbiadini and Shane Long were both poor while Austin recovered from injury, so maybe the hopes of recapturing the high-flying form a few years ago may still be a long way off.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Jannik Vestergaard, all the way from Borussia Mönchengladbach, is hoped to fill the Virgil void, with Stuart Armstrong escaping the clutches of Brendan Rodger's Celtic to cross the border to add some creativity to the Saints squad. Mark Hughes is hoping that Mohamed Elyounoussi can supply some creative flair, scoring 12 goals for Basel last season. With Champions League experience as well, Hughes hopes that he has used his money wisely.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Goals are needed, and Charlie Austin will be the man to deliver them. Of course, it all depends on whether he stays fit or not. After only starting 21 games for Southampton in the Premier League between 2016-2018, there is a worry that old problems will resurface. For now though, Charlie Austin is the key in making everyone forget about that relegation scrap of the year just gone.
14: FULHAM: BACK AND HERE TO STAY
LAST SEASON: 3rd in the Championship, promoted via the play-offs
MANAGER: Slaviša Jokanović
BIGGEST STRENGTH: There's a reason Fulham went unbeaten between November 2017 and May 2018, and that was their style of play. Wolves had the talent to breeze through the Championship; Fulham had the system to keep up with them. They play a similar style to teams like Manchester City and Liverpool, in that slick passing from captain Tom Cairney is mixed in with a high press to force turnovers and convert chances, mainly thanks to Ryan Sessegnon. This system means there is no need to dramatically change the way Fulham play, ensuring a comfortable transition back into the Premier League
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Promoted teams always seem to be lacking at the back, and that may prove Fulham's downfall. It's a team effort after all, and no team can rely solely on their attack. It's a harsh lesson that Arsenal learnt last year, and one that stopped Manchester City going a whole season unbeaten. For Fulham, the consequences of a weak defence might be far more serious. Only 11 clean sheets were achieved in their 23 unbeaten streak. Things need to improve
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Anything Wolves can do, Fulham can do better. Goalkeeper Fabri, coming in from Beşiktaş, is vocal and likes to direct his defenders, which new centre-back Alfie Mawson will enjoy. André Schürlle arrives on loan for another crack at the Premier League, and Aleksandar Mitrović sees his future at Craven Cottage after a successful loan spell there last season. Yet another coup has occurred! Jean Michaël Seri, another players linked with the European elite, arrives from Nice for £27 million. Great passer, good control of the ball- goodness me, Fulham will be fun to watch this year.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Ryan Sessegnon bagged himself 15 goals last year, and was another name being tipped to sneak into England's World Cup squad. At the tender age of 18, he is an exciting talent to keep an eye on, and Jokanović will be on high alert to keep his young prodigy at Craven Cottage.
15: CRYSTAL PALACE: ROY HAS A PLAN
LAST SEASON: 11th
MANAGER: Roy Hodgson
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When you start a season with 7 successive defeats and no goals scored, it looks like relegation beckons. Out went Frank de Boer, in came Roy Hodgson in his first role since the disastrous England campaign at Euro 2016. Hostility greeted the former England boss, but by the end of the season the Selhurst Park crowds were in awe of the job done by the experienced Hodgson. Finishing with 4 wins from 5 games meant Crystal Palace finished just outside of the top 10, and credit is something Roy isn't given enough of at times. Although, that Iceland defeat won't be forgotten anytime soon.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: The departures of Yohan Cabaye and Ruben Loftus-Cheek create a much weakened midfield for Palace. Ruben's excellent loan spell earned him a place in the England squad, and hopefully won't be relegated to the sidelines under Sarri at Chelsea. With Cabaye heading to Al-Nasr on a free transfer, it might have been worth giving the 32-year-old a small contract extension to allow new talent to be found. Losing these two means all hope now falls on Wilfried Zaha to deliver once again, as no one really expects Christian Benteke to do anything useful.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Roy, however, knows the damage these two players leaving has on his midfield, so has called in reinforcements. Cheikhou Kouyaté joins from West Ham and his physicality will make him a fearful presence in Palace's midfield. Yet once again a 'smaller' Premier League side has pulled off a belter of a signing, this time the signatures of 22-year-old Max Meyer on a free transfer. Linked with names like Arsenal (always Arsenal, it seems) and Tottenham, he chose South London instead as the place to showcase his creativity that have many tipping him to be the next German superstar. Roy, you cunning bastard.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Whenever Wilfried Zaha didn't play for Palace last season, no points were gained. His importance is paramount to survival (which appears to be Palace's goal for this season according to Hodgson), and a serious injury or sudden move away from the club will create mass panic. A failed venture at Manchester United, however, may keep Zaha at Selhurst Park... for now, at least. After 9 goals and 3 assists last season, that will bring a sigh of relief to Hodgson.
16: BOURNEMOUTH: FORTRESS ON THE SOUTH COAST
LAST SEASON: 12th
MANAGER: Eddie Howe
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When Eddie Howe took charge of Bournemouth for the first time back in 2009, they were in League Two and in administration. Fast forward to 2018, and Howe, in his second stint after a brief tenure in Burnley, led Bournemouth to 12th in their 3rd season in the Premier League. It defies logic and understanding, yet Bournemouth are becoming regulars of the Premier League. That stability is their strength, and shows how sticking by your manager through thick and thin brings excellent rewards.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Goal difference kept Bournemouth out of the top 10 last year, and once more defensive woes will cause concern. Asmir Begović kept Bournemouth out of any relegation scraps, but one man can only do so much. Howe has kept his faith in a side that he has grown with his own two hands for years now, but needs to now utilise the youthful talent in abundance across the board at the Vitality Stadium.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: More youthful acquisitions for Bournemouth shows their expectation of nurturing a team that will soon challenge for more than Premier League mid-table obscurity. David Brooks joins from Sheffield United as yet another midfield option, but Diego Rico is the left back needed to give the ageing Charlie Daniels a breather. The old guard have seen off challenges from new recruits before, but Daniels might have to give way in order to keep Bournemouth afloat. With Jefferson Lerma joining for a club record £25 million, the boys on the south coast are making moves.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jermaine Defoe is a Premier League mercenary and scores goals wherever he finds himself across a varied career. In the middle of Bournemouth's leaky defence is where their key man is; Nathan Aké. The Cherries would be in a spot of bother without their Dutch star, and it is no surprise that he won Player of the Year for the club last season. He will need more support from his full backs, however, if he wants to remain the star of a Premier League club's defence.
17: HUDDERSFIELD TOWN: STILL HERE, AND THANK GOD FOR IT
LAST SEASON: 16th
MANAGER: David Wagner
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Huddersfield enter their second Premier League season with one goal in mind; survive. That target will come from their defensive capabilities, impressive for a side that only avoided the drop by 4 points. Goalkeeper Jonas Lössl, a loanee, played the game of his life to secure the point against Chelsea that kept his team up, and centre-backs Christopher Schindler and Mathias 'Zanka' Jørgensen were a duo that played in all but 1 game for Huddersfield Town last season. Huddersfield averaged a league high 19.6 tackles a game, and only 7 other teams allowed fewer shots on goal. Considering where they finished in 2018, those are remarkable statistics.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Only 28 goals were scored by Huddersfield last season, and they failed to score in 21 of their 38 league games. Burnley lacked goals but still ground out wins, while Huddersfield found themselves on the receiving end of big defeats to numerous clubs. Huddersfield need goals if they are looking to emulate the likes of Bournemouth and defy footballing logic to maintain their place in England's top flight.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Wagner likes bringing in youth players once tipped to take the world by storm but have since faded away due to better players emerging on the scene. Terence Kongolo becomes their record signing following a loan spell, as the Terriers fork out £17.5 million for his services at both left and centre-back. Up top, Adama Diakhaby and Ramadan Sobhi (two more young players) are hoped to bring some fire to the Huddersfield attack in the wider positions. Yet getting Jonas Lössl to sign permanently from Mainz is a great piece of business, especially as he was the undisputed starting keeper at Huddersfield last year. Consistency is key, after all.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jonas Lössl, simply because Huddersfield will need his services more than ever. They have strengthened in all areas, and midfielder Aaron Mooy is a master of delivering set-pieces, but everyone knows that this will be a struggle. Jonas, no pressure fella.
18: WATFORD: IT WAS BOUND TO HAPPEN
LAST SEASON: 14th
MANAGER: Javi Garcia
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Watford find strength in the middle of their line-up, with top scorer Abdoulaye Doucouré sitting behind Roberto Pereyra. Will Hughes and Nathaniel Chalobah will be back from their injuries, and will partner the Malian maestro Doucouré in the centre of Watford's midfield. From this strong core will arise a plethora of chances that will surely be lapped up by Watford's attacking players.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: It's their attack. Doucouré was top scorer last year with 7 goals, which shows that the goals aren't coming from where they are supposed to. Troy Deeney only managed 5, and that milestone was only reached thanks to penalties (some of them dubious). When Garcia came in for Marco Silva in January, Watford only managed 11 goals from their last 13 games. With Richarlison following Silva to Everton, another source of goals has dried up. Things look bad at Vicarage Road under the guise of owner Gino Pozzo and his dynamite tactic of sacking managers.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Ben Foster returns in goal for Watford, as the 35-year-old winds down his career in the hopes of bringing some experience to the Watford squad. Adam Masina comes in at left back for £4.5 million, and only £2 million was needed to be spent on winger Ken Sema to buy him from Östersunds. On the right now sits Gerard Deulofeu, arriving for £12 million from Barcelona. Able to play on both wings, he enjoyed a small loan spell at Watford last year and decided Spain was overrated. Goals might not be so much of a problem now then.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Deulofeu could become the star of the team, but to upstage Abdoulaye Doucouré will be quite a challenge. Top scorer last year, able tackler and a decent passing ability means Abdoulaye Doucouré will no doubt lead Watford through what will be a tough season.
19: BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
LAST SEASON: 15th
MANAGER: Chris Hughton
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Chris Hughton has drilled his side well, and that can be seen in the defensive partnership of Shane Duffy and Lewis Dunk. Whilst Glenn Murray and Pascal Groß dazzled up front, the centre-backs held down the fort superbly. They were part of Brighton's promotion campaign in 2017, and only missed 1 game in the Seagulls' debut season in the Premier League. Now that's commitment.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Sigh, how many sides are struggling up front this year? Yes, Glenn Murray got 12 goals and helped secure survival, but the man is 35. Time claims us all, so there is pressure on new boys Florin Andone and Iranian international Alireza Jahanbakhsh to take on the responsibility of scoring those precious goals. They need to adapt fast to fix Brighton's dreadful away record (only 2 wins on the road last year) and keep them in the Premier League.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: £9 million for Bernardo, a fullback that can play on both the right and left, is a steal to be honest. He loves going forward, which is what most managers what from fullbacks nowadays in order to provide greater attacking options. The Iranian Jahanbakhsh, now Brighton's record signing at £17 million, scored 21 goals for AZ Alkmaar to finish as the top scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie. The Premier League is a whole different level however, but Jahanbakhsh won't let that deter him.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Glenn Murray overachieved last year with his 12 goals, but that came down to Pascal Groß and his assisting brilliance. Player of the Year for Brighton in their first season in the Premier League, the German supplied 8 assists and got 7 goals to top it all off. His magic feet will be the deciding factor in whether Brighton can save themselves from relegation.
20: CARDIFF CITY: STILL THE BEST TEAM IN WALES
LAST SEASON: 2nd in the Championship
MANAGER: Neil Warnock
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Cardiff City secured an unlikely promotion back up to the Premier League, the 8th of Neil Warnock's career. Defying the odds is a key quality to have, since the big boys will be having sleepless nights due to the excitement of ripping apart Warnock's side. Cardiff can make them pay, especially when it comes down to set pieces. 21 goals were scored through this method on the road to promotion, and England demonstrated in Russia how vital they are in defying the odds. Don't write them off just yet.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Actually, scrap that. Cardiff are a Championship team run by a man who can succeed in the Championship but has yet to keep any side he has managed in the Premier League in the division. Junior Hoilett may have jump started his career, and the defensive pairing of Sol Bamba and Sean Morrison smacked down any striker who came near them with the ball, but don't expect Romelu Lukaku to go down as easily. Their style of play is aggressive and devoid of passing as well, similar to how Stoke City have played in the last few years. They were rightly relegated in 2018, and Cardiff will follow suit if Warnock wants to stick to the plan.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Signings have been made, all from former Championship rivals. Josh Murphy on the left wing has good potential, but again the Premier League might be a step too far. Greg Cunningham (left back) and Alex Smithies (goalkeeper) are unlikely to add too much to Cardiff, so it all falls down to Bobby Reid. Winger turned striker, he lashed in 19 goals for Bristol City, which was 9 more than Cardiff's top scorer Callum Paterson (who plays in defence, by the way). All down to his loan spell at Plymouth Argyle a few years ago, obviously.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The redemption arc of Junior Hoilett goes on for another year, this time it's the Premier League edition! 9 goals last season helped Cardiff return to the Premier League, and will be keen to make sure he doesn't end up relegated as he did with Queens Park Rangers. He could have gone to Liverpool, mind you. Surely he can't have made another bad career choice?
So there you go. OK, it wasn't brief but there are 20 teams to cover! But at least the key points are there. Manchester City will win the league, Wolverhampton Wanderers will have a marvellous time with their Portuguese squad and José Mourinho will become the leading global conspiracy theorist after Alex Jones and 'InfoWars' was rightly curtailed. It's going to be a good year, and it all kicks off on Friday night. So, lock the doors, order some pizza and snuggle down on the sofa for the return of Premier League football. Best season yet? That's for the footballing gods to decide.
Ben G 😁 xo
'The Premier League is one of the most difficult in the world. There's five, six, or seven clubs that can be the champions. Only one can win, and all the others are disappointed and live in the middle of disaster.'- Jürgen Klopp
Well, well, well, look who has decided to come crawling back into our lives. You entertained us all with some exquisite World Cup action that led to a very prestigious award ceremony, but now you're back to create more fun and excitement?! Football, you are relentless. Bringing forward Transfer Deadline Day wasn't enough for you- always wanting more, forever hungry. Oh, who am I kidding. It's good to have you back in our lives, football. Bring on the new league season and let's get ready to embrace the madness.
 |
| Money talks |
The eyes and ears of fans now begin to turn towards the pundits and betting companies, each presenting their own cases and odds as to who shall triumph and falter in the year ahead. Each have their own prejudices (Garth Crooks, for example, will never tip Arsenal to win anything of note) and those tantalising 2000/1 odds on Cardiff City winning the league sure look good. I mean, who doesn't love a good underdog story, especially one that makes you richer? With new players and managers making their way into the top flight of English football, all ready to do battle with the experienced veterans of seasons gone by, fans just can't contain themselves. Some are even tempted to write their own predictions and potentially open themselves up to ridicule, especially when their World Cup predictions were slightly off the mark. Still, at least one is bound to be correct... right?
 |
| If you say so |
1: MANCHESTER CITY: THE NEW DYNASTY
LAST SEASON: 1st, League Cup Champions
MANAGER: Pep Guardiola
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Manchester City's attack is a thing of beauty. Sergio Agüero refuses to let age slow him down, especially when being fed by Kevin de Bruyne and Fernandinho. With Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sané and Gabriel Jesus, their style of play (fast attack, dominate possession, high press) is perfect for these nimble players. Don't change what isn't broken. With Pep eyeing to win absolutely everything this year, his incredible attack will deliver him into the realms of legendary managers.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: City's love of attacking leaves them exposed at the back, which is a joy for sides like Liverpool who have their own counter-attacking prowess. Weaker sides will happily let City have the ball and hit them on the break as well. Frustrating and disrupting the champions will be how all opponents operate when facing the best side in England. Also, can they top how they played last season? The bar is set high, and that might put on some extra pressure as City defend their title. Maybe they should have paced themselves when it came to breaking records.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Riyad Mahrez will make City's attack even more deadly. After major defensive spending last summer, adding yet another attacker seems wise, although one more world-class midfielder will make Manchester City far too good. Although business has been pretty quiet, there doesn't need to be any drastic changes. After all, can they really fit any more superstars into this team? Wait, don't answer that question.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Which one to choose? They're all so good, and each brings something great to the team, whether it's Sergio's finishing or Vincent Kompany's refusal to be beaten by injury. Think it might be Kevin de Bruyne, who will end up being Player of the Season as well. It will be an award he rightly deserves, and will be part of his challenge to win himself World Player of the Year. The Belgian, in a team full of superstars, is THE superstar.
 |
| 'Ah yes, this will be where my Ballon d'Or will go' |
LAST SEASON: 4th
MANAGER: Jürgen Klopp
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Much like Manchester City, Liverpool's strength lies up top with Mohamed Salah, Golden Boot winner last year with 32 goals. Sadio Mané and Roberto Firmino complete a terrifying triumvirate that dazzled their way to the Champions League Final. Expect no different at Anfield this season, especially with Naby Keïta, Fabinho and Xherdan Shaqiri now playing for Liverpool. They should have finished second last year, but let's just say one or two individuals let them down...
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Liverpool drew 12 times last year, and threw away leads for fun at times. It was mostly down to Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius being careless, with the latter suffering from a concussion during the Champions League Final. Not even Virgil van Dijk and his status as world's most expensive defender could stabilise the nerves of the man between the sticks. Liverpool need to be more confident in holding a lead, and just stick to their game. Nothing stupid, nothing ground-breaking; just play the Liverpool way.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Amazing business done this summer, signing Shaqiri and Keïta to bulk up an already deadly attack. But Alisson is the goalkeeper Liverpool desperately needed. Another transfer record smashed by Liverpool, so can Alisson justify the £56 million value? Jürgen will be praying to every deity just to make sure. I wonder how many times one club can break the transfer record for a goalkeeper?
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Plenty of young talent coming through at Anfield, among them Trent Alexander-Arnold in a fullback role. Jordan Henderson and James Milner keep on chugging away at the heart of midfield, showing the grit English players have in the face of age and adversity. But it will be Mohamed Salah, but the Prince of Egypt won't hold on to his Golden Boot. Fantastic in front of goal last season, and fans will hope that a dire World Cup campaign will be out of his mind once the ball gets rolling on the weekend.
 |
| There can be miracles, when you believe... |
LAST SEASON: 2nd
MANAGER: José Mourinho
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Manchester United are stacked with great attacking talent (Romelu Lukaku, David de Gea and Alexis Sánchez, for example) but it's David de Gea in goal that is the real star of the show. Without him, United would be dead in the water. Praise be to the Spaniard with the weird haircut that pulled out so many incredible saves last year that it's amazing he hasn't left the club yet. Thankfully, Thibaut Courtois has gone into hiding to force through a move to Real Madrid, so looks like he is staying put in Manchester. That should keep the fans happy.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Relying on your goalkeeper, an ageing defence, star players failing to perform; all terrible, but the fault lies in the manager. Expect a 'third season meltdown' from José, whose philosophy of 'parking the bus' means attacking talent is going to waste, especially with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford warming the bench in anger. Even with Rashford given the number 10 shirt, it won't be surprising if he keep being overlooked when the starting line-ups are announced. What a waste.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Fred, since he's the only major one. Bids are being made for Leicester's Harry Maguire and Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld, but it might be a little too late. Fred is still a decent midfielder though, and will enjoy playing with the pacey Jesse Lingard and the veteran Juan Mata. They still need a centre-back, though.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: If no new defender is signed, expect David de Gea to once again come to the rescue. But, by some sort of divine intervention, Manchester United get a new centre-back, then Romelu Lukaku might see a lot more of the ball to pad up those stats. Either way, it will be one of these two that might just give Mourinho a reason to stay for another year. But realistically, put some money on Mourinho having a strop due to a conspiracy to stop him winning the league, resigning in disgust as he begins his new life as a hermit dedicated to bringing down the forces of evil working in the shadows.
 |
| New haircut please, David |
LAST SEASON: 3rd
MANAGER: Mauricio Pocchettino
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Who else but Harry Kane? Granted, Tottenham have World Cup winner Hugo Lloris in goal, but Spurs would be nowhere without the spitting but brilliant England captain. After winning the Golden Boot out in Russia, it should be a massive psychological factor in leading the Spurs line. A new home awaits the men from North London, and Harry will make sure that fans forget the bad luck that follows teams who move to a new stadium (Arsenal and West Ham can testify to that). Kane always finds a way to drag Spurs into the lead, but in a brilliant and masterful way. Another rampant season for the England captain is on the cards.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: The squad depth is bad. One major injury to Kane, Dele Alli or Christian Eriksen and Pocchettino will have to root around on his hands and knees to find a good enough replacement. Spurs supplied 9 players for teams in the World Cup semi-finals, so fatigue will be an issue at the start of the season. Don't be surprised if the squad are transported from game to game by armed guards that have them confined in bubble wrap.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Uuuummmm, the stadium? Not a sausage, I'm afraid. Jack Grealish could arrive from Aston Villa, but the clock is ticking down. Maybe check the phone connection? Get the fax machine out? Smoke signals?!
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Harry Kane (obviously), who shall get back his Golden Boot on his way to masterminding England's World Cup glory in 2022. It's written in the stars really. We shouldn't argue with fate. Dele Alli is another young England talent, with French hero Hugo Lloris in goal and the Belgian duo of Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen enforcing in defence. Tottenham look good, and Kane is the poster boy.
 |
| Oh, why does he have to play for Spurs? |
LAST SEASON: 6th
MANAGER: Unai Emery
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Having Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for a whole season is wonderful, but a new era at Arsenal means expectations are low, meaning the pressure is off. Players like Mesut Özil (now free of Germany duty) and Alexandre Lacazette therefore may not be a chastised as much this season, giving them a bit more freedom to play their game. The departure of Arsène Wenger may lead to problems similar to the ones seen at Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson left, but with a manager with plenty of success on the continent (Emery won 3 Europa Leagues at Sevilla, for example) then nerves may be settled. Besides, 'Unai Out' doesn't sound as catchy as 'Wenger Out'.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Arsenal are way behind their rivals, even with a new manager and plenty of good talent to pick. Wenger was reluctant to change his system, and now the players have to settle into a brand new one. The exciting new era at the Emirates will be one of transition, with Thursday night football being a drain on resources as well. Arsenal need consistency, which was lacking so much last year, to muster a decent challenge. Depth will be key this year, especially in cold nights away to obscure Swedish teams that play on the side of a mountain.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Amazingly, Arsenal have spent money again in a transfer window, with Bernd Leno (goalkeeper), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (centre-back), Stephan Lichtsteiner (left back) and Matteo Guéndouzi (midfielder) being snapped up. Of all the signings, Lucas Torreira is the most exciting as he is the defensive midfielder Arsenal have needed for years. Young and physical, the Uruguayan could be the key to Arsenal's success. Emery knows what needs to be fixed, and has used the funds to make sure the squad is stronger compared to last year.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The Premier League only got a glimpse of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang last year, who scored 10 goals in 14 appearances. With best buddy Henrikh Mkhitaryan supplying him, it could be a fruitful season for the man from Gabon. Mesut is still keen to stay at Arsenal, and Aaron Ramsey continues to impress despite contract talks stalling. We should all look forward to plenty of acrobatic celebrations from Mr Aubameyang as Arsenal reach the balmy heights of 5th.
 |
| Woooooooooo 5th! |
LAST SEASON: 5th, FA Cup Champions
MANAGER: Maurizio Sarri
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Much like Arsenal, a new manager is a breath of fresh air. Antonio Conte may have guided Chelsea to the title in his debut season back in 2016/17, but a weak title defence and bad attitude meant the man had to go. Sarri led Napoli to 2nd in Serie A last year, 4 points behind Juventus, with their slick football being the stuff of envy across Europe. That passion to turn the most unlikely of sides into contenders is what Chelsea need right now.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: It's a transitional year for Chelsea, and Thibaut Courtois has disappeared and miraculously found himself in Spain. Eden Hazard remains unsettled, so it appears that people are willing to jump ship rather than play under Sarri's system of accurate passing to build a fast attack. It may be his lack of trophies driving players away, which implies a degree of snobbishness among the Chelsea squad in that only the best will do. It will prove costly as they slide down the table.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Robert Green... just kidding, it's Jorginho. Pinched from Manchester City, the playmaker is a great passer and looks to spring attacks every time the ball touches his feet. He will champion Sarri's style of play, and show the Chelsea boys how it's done. Except Courtois, since Real Madrid have found him hiding in a laundry hamper in Madrid. After this intriguing development, Madrid have allowed Mateo Kovačić to join Chelsea on loan, which isn't a disaster after a solid outing for Croatia at the World Cup. In celebration, Chelsea have spent £71 million to bring in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao and break the transfer record for a keeper. Wow, football is crazy.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Thibaut Courtois is gone, so things will be interesting. Eden Hazard had a fantastic World Cup, and looks set to stay at Stamford Bridge to find his club form once again. Yet Jorginho will be the pivotal player this season due to being the man to show the squad how to play under Sarri. The new manager needs his big money signing to bring home the bacon, and Jorginho has a hankering for some bacon sandwiches. Anyone else hungry?
 |
| All smiles... for now |
LAST SEASON: 8th
MANAGER: Marco Silva
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Another new manager, and once again another club hoping to forget last season. Ronald Koeman dreamed of challenging for a spot in Europe, but ended up sacked by October 2017. When Sam Allardyce came in, fans were angry at his boring style of play, and his departure was not seen as a disaster. Now, with Marco Silva in charge, whose spell at Watford last season provided great attacking displays, Goodison Park can look forward to staying awake for games. Oh, and they have Jordan Pickford, whose marvellous saves in Russia will be sought after in the coming season.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Everton aren't brilliant when it comes to transfers. Last summer, they signed three number 10's (Wayne Rooney, Davy Klaassen and Gylfi Sigurdsson) for a combined total of £63 million, with no replacement for Lukaku who sauntered off to Manchester United. Their defence is ageing fast, with Leighton Baines not the formidable left back he once was and Phil Jagielka planning on how to spend his pension. Silva will need to control the spending to provide some stability to Everton, and only spend the money in areas that need improving.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: The signings of Lucas Digne and Richarlison is a good indication of what Silva wants; a rejuvenated defence and someone who can score some bloody goals. Richarlison was prolific at the start of last season for Watford under Marco Silva, but soon faded away into obscurity. The £50 million spent on the 21-year-old means there is massive pressure to perform, but at least Everton have someone who can score goals.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Richarlison and Sigurdsson will combine well up top, but all eyes should be on Jordan Pickford. The man ousted Joe Hart from the role of England's first choice keeper, and proved all critics wrong in his role for England at the World Cup. Everton are lucky to have him, and will be even luckier to hold on to him for the coming seasons.
 |
| Typical face of an Everton player |
LAST SEASON: 13th
MANAGER: Manuel Pellegrini
BIGGEST STRENGTH: New players, new manager, new attitude; West Ham's biggest strength is their ambition. Moving to the Olympic Stadium was the first step in breaking into the Premier League elite, and now the investment is paying off. Turbulent performances over the last few seasons has made many wonder if leaving Upton Park was a good move in the first place. West Ham are beginning to settle, and with the successful Manuel Pellegrini on the touchline, they might just fit snuggly into the Europa League places.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: West Ham have been busy in the transfer window, signing the likes of Jack Wilshere on a free transfer from Arsenal and Andriy Yarmolenko arriving from Borussia Dortmund. On paper, brilliant. In reality, dubious. West Ham signed a lot of fringe players, or ones that had very poor seasons ruined by injury or poor form. It will be difficult to integrate so many new players into a squad that now has to play under a new style of play based around possession and quick attacks.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is a great buy at £7 million after being Swansea's only positive to take away from their season of woe and relegation. West Ham broke their transfer record to bring in centre-back Issa Diop for £22 million. Yet breaking that record again in getting Felipe Anderson for £35 million is unbelievable considering he had been linked with moves to clubs like Manchester United. The attacking midfielder will be a fine addition to Pellegrini's collection.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jack Wilshere can look to Oxlade-Chamberlain as a shining example of Arsenal players getting their careers back on track after moving to a new club, so will be desperate to shake off the tag of being a liability. However, after Marko Arnautović became the great success of the David Moyes experiment at the end of last season, he should prove vital once again. 11 goals earned him Hammer of the Year in 2018, so expectations are high once again.
 |
| Wakanda forever |
LAST SEASON: 9th
MANAGER: Claude Puel
BIGGEST STRENGTH: If there is one thing Leicester City do well, it's upsetting the odds. Scintillating escapes, unlikely Premier League triumphs; you can't keep them down. The euphoria of winning the league still hangs around the King Power Stadium, with the whippet Jamie Vardy staying loyal to the club that hoisted him up from the peripheral of non-league football.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Riyad Mahrez has packed his bags and left for Manchester, and that stings. Vardy's loyalty is to be admired, but losing a player of that calibre isn't going to be an easy fix. Mahrez was hand on hand to provide attacking flair and partner up with Vardy in reminding teams of Leicester's ability to execute good counter-attacks. With the Algerian gone, it's possible that Leicester's hopes of a European spot may have gone too.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: With Riyad gone, Claude Puel knows that he needs to change the system from focusing attacks out wide to one utilising the centre. Signing 21-year-old James Maddison from Norwich City for £22 million is the catalyst behind the system change, and is one to watch in years to come. Capturing Ricardo Pereira from Porto and Jonny Evans from West Brom will be a sigh of relief for Harry Maguire and goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, as they cannot be expected to save Leicester at the back all by themselves.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The spotlight is on Jamie Vardy, the man who refuses to leave. It will be a big morale boost to teammates to see him remain after being the subject of interest from clubs like Arsenal since 2016, and a continued stint in Leicester may show the likes of Maguire and Schmeichel to ignore the big sides and stay where you are. After 20 goals last year, Jamie Vardy is as prolific as ever.
 |
| WKDs on me, boys |
LAST SEASON: 7th
MANAGER: Sean Dyche
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Burnley are very hard to breakdown, and only conceded 39 goals a game last season. Not bad for a team tipped to be rooted to the bottom of the Premier League. Manager Sean Dyche drilled into his defence the need to block and anticipate shots, whilst maintaining a defensive shield around Nick Pope in goal. Squeezing out vital low scoring wins ensured Burnley finished in 7th (their highest league finish since 1974) and entered European competition for the first time in 51 years. Turf Moor, get ready for European football.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: There are a few plaguing the Clarets heading into the new season. A good defensive record shouldn't cover up the lack of goals, and questions remain of where these goals will come from. Losing Chris Wood to injury meant the goals dried up, so another long-term injury could prove costly. Playing in the Europa League will bring in fans and revenue, but the strain of playing midweek will cause fatigue in abundance. Indeed, after such an excellent season, can they do it all again? Judging by a lack of transfer activity, it appears not.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: A shoulder injury to Nick Pope meant Sean needs a keeper, and he has found one. Joe Hart, excommunicated by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and sentenced to loan spells, has finally found a home at Burnley. He may have lost his place as England's top goalkeeper, but has years of European and international experience that will come in handy as Burnley look to repeat the success of last season.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: James Tarkowski was on stand-by for England's World Cup squad, and was a deserved name on that list. It would have been nicer to be on the plane, but an impressive stint in the heart of Burnley's defence earned him a nomination for Player of the Year in the 2017/18 season. For a side that love to defend, Tarkowski will be integral to Burnley and their exciting European adventures.
 |
| Cheer up James, Burnley are in Europe! |
LAST SEASON: 10th
MANAGER: Rafa Benitez
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When Rafa Benitez strolled into St James' Park in March 2016, Newcastle United were destined for the drop. After cruising to the Championship title in 2017, Benitez then capped off his 3rd season at Newcastle by finishing 10th. The man is a genius, and Newcastle need him. After glory with Liverpool, Inter Milan and Napoli, it's incredible that a manager of such calibre and greatness has stuck around for so long. Newcastle are a great club, but the managerial roundabout has not distracted Rafa from what he wants to build up in Newcastle.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Behind the scenes, Newcastle are a mess. Owner Mike Ashley is looking to sell the club, and that looks like a saga that will be drawn out for a while. In the meantime, no money is being invested into the squad, leaving Rafa a very unsatisfied man. If support from greater powers is still wanting, then Newcastle would need to find a new manager as well as a new owner.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: With a limited transfer budget, Rafa needs to work his magic, and has been pretty successful this summer. Ki Sung-yeung joins on a free from Swansea, and Salomon Rondon will be instrumental in leading Newcastle's attack. Getting Chelsea's Kenedy on loan once again is a great piece of business, as he showed what Chelsea were missing in his 3 month spell under Benitez. Kenedy could be the latest Chelsea prospect that leaves Stamford Bridge and finds greater success elsewhere.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Centre-back Jamaal Lascelles showed that there was still talent knocking about at Newcastle, but the redemption of Jonjo Shelvey last season makes him pivotal this year as well. He started the season with a red card against Tottenham, and finished it by being an outside chance of being part of Gareth Southgate's World Cup squad. The Lord Voldemort lookalike has plenty to offer.
 |
| I see you, Potter |
LAST SEASON: 1st in the Championship
MANAGER: Nuno Espírito Santo
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Wolverhampton Wanderers destroyed all who came before them last year in the Championship. The club has a sturdy structure, a budget to survive and thrive in the Premier League and plenty of talent to excite any football fan. It appears that Santo's good relationship with agent Jorge Mendes has worked wonders for Wolves with the calibre of players they have signed. Put a fiver on them to win the league! You never know...
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Walking the Championship to secure a return to the top flight is wonderful and everything, but Wolves are with the big boys now. Excellent recruitment and playing fast, possession dominating football worked well last year, but now you have defenders like Harry Maguire, Vincent Kompany and Tony Alderweireld in your way. It won't be a walk in the park, and Wolves need to keep their feet on the ground, or those bigger sides will take aim and fire.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: When news broke that Wolves had paid nothing to sign Rui Patricio, Portugal's goalkeeper from their Euro 2016 campaign, everyone lost their minds. It's the transfer of João Moutinho for £5 million, however, that really takes the cake. Another Portuguese talent, Moutinho will relish the chance to play in the Premier League due to being an adventurous playmaker. Seriously, Wolves could easily break into the top half of the table.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Rúben Neves will partner Moutinho in midfield, and will be desperate to outdo his Portuguese teammate to prove who the top dog is. Great passing, not afraid of going forward and only 21; very likely to be a good pick for Young Player of the Year if he can continue his impressive form from last year
 |
| Sponsored by The Money Shop... how fitting |
LAST SEASON: 17th
MANAGER: Mark Hughes
BIGGEST STRENGTH: The main problem for Southampton over the years is how they've been deemed a 'selling' club, or more accurately a feeder club for Liverpool (Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mané, Nathaniel Clyne etc.). When these players left, there weren't replaced with the same calibre of players and last season Southampton got a rude awakening. This time around, Mark Hughes looks to have brought in talent that might just do the job. Having players that can give the crowds at St Mary's something to cheer for is by far their biggest strength.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: 37 goals from 38 games; bear in mind that Southampton were threatening to break into the Champions League places a few years ago. Charlie Austin's fitness left him out for large parts of the season, and now he will be the main point of attack with Dušan Tadić moving to Ajax. Both Manolo Gabbiadini and Shane Long were both poor while Austin recovered from injury, so maybe the hopes of recapturing the high-flying form a few years ago may still be a long way off.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Jannik Vestergaard, all the way from Borussia Mönchengladbach, is hoped to fill the Virgil void, with Stuart Armstrong escaping the clutches of Brendan Rodger's Celtic to cross the border to add some creativity to the Saints squad. Mark Hughes is hoping that Mohamed Elyounoussi can supply some creative flair, scoring 12 goals for Basel last season. With Champions League experience as well, Hughes hopes that he has used his money wisely.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Goals are needed, and Charlie Austin will be the man to deliver them. Of course, it all depends on whether he stays fit or not. After only starting 21 games for Southampton in the Premier League between 2016-2018, there is a worry that old problems will resurface. For now though, Charlie Austin is the key in making everyone forget about that relegation scrap of the year just gone.
 |
| Guess who scored? This guy |
LAST SEASON: 3rd in the Championship, promoted via the play-offs
MANAGER: Slaviša Jokanović
BIGGEST STRENGTH: There's a reason Fulham went unbeaten between November 2017 and May 2018, and that was their style of play. Wolves had the talent to breeze through the Championship; Fulham had the system to keep up with them. They play a similar style to teams like Manchester City and Liverpool, in that slick passing from captain Tom Cairney is mixed in with a high press to force turnovers and convert chances, mainly thanks to Ryan Sessegnon. This system means there is no need to dramatically change the way Fulham play, ensuring a comfortable transition back into the Premier League
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Promoted teams always seem to be lacking at the back, and that may prove Fulham's downfall. It's a team effort after all, and no team can rely solely on their attack. It's a harsh lesson that Arsenal learnt last year, and one that stopped Manchester City going a whole season unbeaten. For Fulham, the consequences of a weak defence might be far more serious. Only 11 clean sheets were achieved in their 23 unbeaten streak. Things need to improve
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Anything Wolves can do, Fulham can do better. Goalkeeper Fabri, coming in from Beşiktaş, is vocal and likes to direct his defenders, which new centre-back Alfie Mawson will enjoy. André Schürlle arrives on loan for another crack at the Premier League, and Aleksandar Mitrović sees his future at Craven Cottage after a successful loan spell there last season. Yet another coup has occurred! Jean Michaël Seri, another players linked with the European elite, arrives from Nice for £27 million. Great passer, good control of the ball- goodness me, Fulham will be fun to watch this year.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Ryan Sessegnon bagged himself 15 goals last year, and was another name being tipped to sneak into England's World Cup squad. At the tender age of 18, he is an exciting talent to keep an eye on, and Jokanović will be on high alert to keep his young prodigy at Craven Cottage.
 |
| Keep the chat about relegation down, thank you |
LAST SEASON: 11th
MANAGER: Roy Hodgson
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When you start a season with 7 successive defeats and no goals scored, it looks like relegation beckons. Out went Frank de Boer, in came Roy Hodgson in his first role since the disastrous England campaign at Euro 2016. Hostility greeted the former England boss, but by the end of the season the Selhurst Park crowds were in awe of the job done by the experienced Hodgson. Finishing with 4 wins from 5 games meant Crystal Palace finished just outside of the top 10, and credit is something Roy isn't given enough of at times. Although, that Iceland defeat won't be forgotten anytime soon.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: The departures of Yohan Cabaye and Ruben Loftus-Cheek create a much weakened midfield for Palace. Ruben's excellent loan spell earned him a place in the England squad, and hopefully won't be relegated to the sidelines under Sarri at Chelsea. With Cabaye heading to Al-Nasr on a free transfer, it might have been worth giving the 32-year-old a small contract extension to allow new talent to be found. Losing these two means all hope now falls on Wilfried Zaha to deliver once again, as no one really expects Christian Benteke to do anything useful.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Roy, however, knows the damage these two players leaving has on his midfield, so has called in reinforcements. Cheikhou Kouyaté joins from West Ham and his physicality will make him a fearful presence in Palace's midfield. Yet once again a 'smaller' Premier League side has pulled off a belter of a signing, this time the signatures of 22-year-old Max Meyer on a free transfer. Linked with names like Arsenal (always Arsenal, it seems) and Tottenham, he chose South London instead as the place to showcase his creativity that have many tipping him to be the next German superstar. Roy, you cunning bastard.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Whenever Wilfried Zaha didn't play for Palace last season, no points were gained. His importance is paramount to survival (which appears to be Palace's goal for this season according to Hodgson), and a serious injury or sudden move away from the club will create mass panic. A failed venture at Manchester United, however, may keep Zaha at Selhurst Park... for now, at least. After 9 goals and 3 assists last season, that will bring a sigh of relief to Hodgson.
 |
| 'Wait, I'm staying here?! Bollocks' |
LAST SEASON: 12th
MANAGER: Eddie Howe
BIGGEST STRENGTH: When Eddie Howe took charge of Bournemouth for the first time back in 2009, they were in League Two and in administration. Fast forward to 2018, and Howe, in his second stint after a brief tenure in Burnley, led Bournemouth to 12th in their 3rd season in the Premier League. It defies logic and understanding, yet Bournemouth are becoming regulars of the Premier League. That stability is their strength, and shows how sticking by your manager through thick and thin brings excellent rewards.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Goal difference kept Bournemouth out of the top 10 last year, and once more defensive woes will cause concern. Asmir Begović kept Bournemouth out of any relegation scraps, but one man can only do so much. Howe has kept his faith in a side that he has grown with his own two hands for years now, but needs to now utilise the youthful talent in abundance across the board at the Vitality Stadium.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: More youthful acquisitions for Bournemouth shows their expectation of nurturing a team that will soon challenge for more than Premier League mid-table obscurity. David Brooks joins from Sheffield United as yet another midfield option, but Diego Rico is the left back needed to give the ageing Charlie Daniels a breather. The old guard have seen off challenges from new recruits before, but Daniels might have to give way in order to keep Bournemouth afloat. With Jefferson Lerma joining for a club record £25 million, the boys on the south coast are making moves.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jermaine Defoe is a Premier League mercenary and scores goals wherever he finds himself across a varied career. In the middle of Bournemouth's leaky defence is where their key man is; Nathan Aké. The Cherries would be in a spot of bother without their Dutch star, and it is no surprise that he won Player of the Year for the club last season. He will need more support from his full backs, however, if he wants to remain the star of a Premier League club's defence.
 |
| Sorry Jermaine, Nathan's top dog round here |
LAST SEASON: 16th
MANAGER: David Wagner
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Huddersfield enter their second Premier League season with one goal in mind; survive. That target will come from their defensive capabilities, impressive for a side that only avoided the drop by 4 points. Goalkeeper Jonas Lössl, a loanee, played the game of his life to secure the point against Chelsea that kept his team up, and centre-backs Christopher Schindler and Mathias 'Zanka' Jørgensen were a duo that played in all but 1 game for Huddersfield Town last season. Huddersfield averaged a league high 19.6 tackles a game, and only 7 other teams allowed fewer shots on goal. Considering where they finished in 2018, those are remarkable statistics.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Only 28 goals were scored by Huddersfield last season, and they failed to score in 21 of their 38 league games. Burnley lacked goals but still ground out wins, while Huddersfield found themselves on the receiving end of big defeats to numerous clubs. Huddersfield need goals if they are looking to emulate the likes of Bournemouth and defy footballing logic to maintain their place in England's top flight.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Wagner likes bringing in youth players once tipped to take the world by storm but have since faded away due to better players emerging on the scene. Terence Kongolo becomes their record signing following a loan spell, as the Terriers fork out £17.5 million for his services at both left and centre-back. Up top, Adama Diakhaby and Ramadan Sobhi (two more young players) are hoped to bring some fire to the Huddersfield attack in the wider positions. Yet getting Jonas Lössl to sign permanently from Mainz is a great piece of business, especially as he was the undisputed starting keeper at Huddersfield last year. Consistency is key, after all.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Jonas Lössl, simply because Huddersfield will need his services more than ever. They have strengthened in all areas, and midfielder Aaron Mooy is a master of delivering set-pieces, but everyone knows that this will be a struggle. Jonas, no pressure fella.
 |
| Don't panic |
LAST SEASON: 14th
MANAGER: Javi Garcia
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Watford find strength in the middle of their line-up, with top scorer Abdoulaye Doucouré sitting behind Roberto Pereyra. Will Hughes and Nathaniel Chalobah will be back from their injuries, and will partner the Malian maestro Doucouré in the centre of Watford's midfield. From this strong core will arise a plethora of chances that will surely be lapped up by Watford's attacking players.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: It's their attack. Doucouré was top scorer last year with 7 goals, which shows that the goals aren't coming from where they are supposed to. Troy Deeney only managed 5, and that milestone was only reached thanks to penalties (some of them dubious). When Garcia came in for Marco Silva in January, Watford only managed 11 goals from their last 13 games. With Richarlison following Silva to Everton, another source of goals has dried up. Things look bad at Vicarage Road under the guise of owner Gino Pozzo and his dynamite tactic of sacking managers.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Ben Foster returns in goal for Watford, as the 35-year-old winds down his career in the hopes of bringing some experience to the Watford squad. Adam Masina comes in at left back for £4.5 million, and only £2 million was needed to be spent on winger Ken Sema to buy him from Östersunds. On the right now sits Gerard Deulofeu, arriving for £12 million from Barcelona. Able to play on both wings, he enjoyed a small loan spell at Watford last year and decided Spain was overrated. Goals might not be so much of a problem now then.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Deulofeu could become the star of the team, but to upstage Abdoulaye Doucouré will be quite a challenge. Top scorer last year, able tackler and a decent passing ability means Abdoulaye Doucouré will no doubt lead Watford through what will be a tough season.
 |
| Can't wait for the Championship |
LAST SEASON: 15th
MANAGER: Chris Hughton
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Chris Hughton has drilled his side well, and that can be seen in the defensive partnership of Shane Duffy and Lewis Dunk. Whilst Glenn Murray and Pascal Groß dazzled up front, the centre-backs held down the fort superbly. They were part of Brighton's promotion campaign in 2017, and only missed 1 game in the Seagulls' debut season in the Premier League. Now that's commitment.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Sigh, how many sides are struggling up front this year? Yes, Glenn Murray got 12 goals and helped secure survival, but the man is 35. Time claims us all, so there is pressure on new boys Florin Andone and Iranian international Alireza Jahanbakhsh to take on the responsibility of scoring those precious goals. They need to adapt fast to fix Brighton's dreadful away record (only 2 wins on the road last year) and keep them in the Premier League.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: £9 million for Bernardo, a fullback that can play on both the right and left, is a steal to be honest. He loves going forward, which is what most managers what from fullbacks nowadays in order to provide greater attacking options. The Iranian Jahanbakhsh, now Brighton's record signing at £17 million, scored 21 goals for AZ Alkmaar to finish as the top scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie. The Premier League is a whole different level however, but Jahanbakhsh won't let that deter him.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: Glenn Murray overachieved last year with his 12 goals, but that came down to Pascal Groß and his assisting brilliance. Player of the Year for Brighton in their first season in the Premier League, the German supplied 8 assists and got 7 goals to top it all off. His magic feet will be the deciding factor in whether Brighton can save themselves from relegation.
 |
| Can he save the Seagulls? |
LAST SEASON: 2nd in the Championship
MANAGER: Neil Warnock
BIGGEST STRENGTH: Cardiff City secured an unlikely promotion back up to the Premier League, the 8th of Neil Warnock's career. Defying the odds is a key quality to have, since the big boys will be having sleepless nights due to the excitement of ripping apart Warnock's side. Cardiff can make them pay, especially when it comes down to set pieces. 21 goals were scored through this method on the road to promotion, and England demonstrated in Russia how vital they are in defying the odds. Don't write them off just yet.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Actually, scrap that. Cardiff are a Championship team run by a man who can succeed in the Championship but has yet to keep any side he has managed in the Premier League in the division. Junior Hoilett may have jump started his career, and the defensive pairing of Sol Bamba and Sean Morrison smacked down any striker who came near them with the ball, but don't expect Romelu Lukaku to go down as easily. Their style of play is aggressive and devoid of passing as well, similar to how Stoke City have played in the last few years. They were rightly relegated in 2018, and Cardiff will follow suit if Warnock wants to stick to the plan.
BEST SIGNING THIS SUMMER: Signings have been made, all from former Championship rivals. Josh Murphy on the left wing has good potential, but again the Premier League might be a step too far. Greg Cunningham (left back) and Alex Smithies (goalkeeper) are unlikely to add too much to Cardiff, so it all falls down to Bobby Reid. Winger turned striker, he lashed in 19 goals for Bristol City, which was 9 more than Cardiff's top scorer Callum Paterson (who plays in defence, by the way). All down to his loan spell at Plymouth Argyle a few years ago, obviously.
KEY PLAYER THIS SEASON: The redemption arc of Junior Hoilett goes on for another year, this time it's the Premier League edition! 9 goals last season helped Cardiff return to the Premier League, and will be keen to make sure he doesn't end up relegated as he did with Queens Park Rangers. He could have gone to Liverpool, mind you. Surely he can't have made another bad career choice?
 |
| Premier League? Piece of piss |
 |
| This guy's ready |
Comments
Post a Comment