2013/2014: 13th
Transfer(s) In: Marc Muniesa (Athletic Bilbao, Free), Erik Pieters (PSV Eindhoven, £3 Million), Mark Hughes (Free Agent), Oussama Assaidi (Liverpool, Loan), Steven Ireland (Aston Villa, Loan), Marco Arnautovic (Werder Bremen, £2.5 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Michael Owen (Retired), Rory Delap, Carlo Nash, Mamady Sidebe, Dean Whitehead, Matthew Upson (Released), Tony Pulis (Sacked)
Transfers Review:
The most important transfers that have been made at the Britannia this season have been made in the dugout rather than on the pitch. After his second spell of over half a decade in the Potteries, Tony Pulis was sacked after a poor season last time around. His replacement was, to the despair of many Stoke fans, former Blackburn, Manchester City and Queens Park Rangers boss Mark Hughes. Whilst many were disappointed with his appointment, I actually do not see him as too bad a choice. His high profile failures with both Manchester City and QPR were at clubs with a considerable amount of money, a feature some managers find it difficult to handle. At Blackburn, where the kitty was considerably lower, he was hailed as a bargain-hunter, with the likes of Roque Santa Cruz one of his greatest buys. Stoke appear to fit more into the second category, and I actually believe that Hughes is a reasonable choice.
His ability to make shrewd aquisitions has been illustrated by his five signings this summer. Marc Muniesa, a large part of Athletic Bilbao's run to the final of the Europa league a couple of seasons ago, was signed on a free transfer, and Erik Pieters, a Dutch central midfielder with good potential, was signed for a miserly sum (in footballing terms at least!) of £3 Million. Later on, two loan deals for Oussama Assaidi and Steven Ireland from Liverpool and Aston Villa, before a final deal for Werder Bremen's enigmatic Marko Arnautovic for a reported £2.5 Million. However, all of these players hardly fit the 'Stoke mould' under the stewardship of Tony Pulis. This implies that Hughes is attempting to stamp his authority on this Stoke team by altering their playing style from the long ball game we have all become so accustomed to.
There has also been a fair clearout of the more experienced players in the Stoke squad, with the majority of them being part of the side that took the Potters to the Premier League. Names like Upson, Whitehead, and even club legend Rory Delap, will not be on show at the Britannia next season, after all were released at the end of last campaign. This once again indicates a significant shift in regime, as Hughes wants rid of all of those considered to be surplus to requirements, and those more experienced players that were the core of the long ball game.
Pre-Season:
The Potters' pre-season has been indicative of a side that is going through a significant transitionary period, with performances perhaps not at the level that would otherwise have been expected. After a brief tour of America, during which they played teams like MLS side Philadelphia Union, they returned to the UK to face a couple of sides from the lower divisions as we moved into August. They opted to take part in friendlies against Blue Square Premier sides Macclesfield and Wrexham, and though they won the pair, they only managed to beat each side by the odd goal, which for a club four divisions above is simply unacceptable.
Their final pre-season match came against the Serie A side Genoa. Despite producing a much improved performance than those that preceeded it, Stoke were unable to find that goalscoring touch, a feature of their game that Hughes will be keen to eradicate. Last season, they were far too guilty of not scoring enough goals, and as a result drew too many games, putting them in danger of relegation.
Key Players:
If Stoke are to stave off relegation again this season, they will need their player of the season last year to be on top form once again. After much speculation, they will be glad to have retained the services of Asmir Begovic. The Bosnian, who has proven himself to be amongst the top 5 goalkeepers in the Premier League, is a good reason for so many of the clean sheets that the Potters have kept over the last few years. His reflexes and command of his area are superb, and it is little wonder that top 4 teams, such as Arsenal, have been reported to be watching him with interest.
In order to score more goals this campaign, the pace, skill and delivery of Jermaine Pennant will be vital. His quiet season last year meant that it was hardly a coincidence that the Potters found themselves in trouble come April. If the Englishman should stay fit and in form, Stoke will fancy themselves to stay away from trouble this time around.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Stoke vs Crystal Palace
29/09/2013: Stoke vs Norwich
04/12/2013: Stoke vs Cardiff
14/12/2013: Hull vs Stoke
18/01/2014: Crystal Palace vs Stoke
08/03/2014: Norwich vs Stoke
29/03/2014: Stoke vs Hull
19/04/2014: Cardiff vs Stoke
Top Goalscorer:
The change of tactics under Mark Hughes seemingly signals the end to the long ball/long throw game made famous under Pulis. This will have consequences for the goal tally of Peter Crouch. The lanky Englishman has always been superb in the air, but his touch has at times been suspect. This is why I will go for Jonathan Walters to cement the title he won last season. Although his tally was low (11), he was the main threat up front for the Potters, and I expect that to continue again this campaign.
Prediction:
As I said earlier, the appointment of Mark Hughes is, in my opinion, not a bad one for a club with the spending power of Stoke. However, with the Welshman attempting to change the style of the Stoke City team's play, I think that the job is a bit of poisoned chalice. The old way had seemingly stopped working by the end of last season, and with an overhaul so difficult to complete quickly, I fear for the survival of the Potters. I have a feeling that, after a good 6 years in the top flight, this season could see the end of Stoke's Premier League status.
Stoke City 2013/2014: 18th
Analysis of sporting events, talking points and controversies.
Thursday, 15 August 2013
Southampton: Marching In Or Crumbling? The Dreaded Second Season
2012/2013: 14th
Transfer(s) In: Dejan Lovren (Lyon, £8.5 Million), Victor Wanyama (Celtic, £12.5 Million), Pablo Osvaldo (AS Roma, £15 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Steve De Ridder, Richard Chaplow (Released), Jason Puncheon (Crystal Palace, Loan)
Transfers Review:
Southampton have opted to stay with the core squad that put them safely into mid-table last campaign, choosing to add only 2 higher value players to their roster. In Dejan Lovren, they have added a highly capable central defender, whose pace, strength and technical abilites are all outstanding. He can certainly be the rock that Southampton lacked at the back for times last season. Further forward, Southampton's addition of Victor Wanyama, is, in my opinion, about the most perfect buy they could have made for their side. Full of energy, passing and great vision, the youngster has phenomenal potential, and despite being tracked by Liverpool, Manchester United and a host of other clubs, Southampton have done exceptionally well to persuade the Kenyan to move to St Mary's. More recently, the Saints have shattered their transfer record for a second time this summer, managing to secure striker Pablo Osvaldo from AS Roma for a reported £15 Million. The Italian is a proven goalscorer, and will bring his strength and ability in the air to the South Coast, where I am convinced he will be a success.
The fact that they have kept hold of other critical players, such as Gaston Ramirez, Rickie Lambert and Luke Shaw, means that they can afford to move for just a couple of higher ticket players in a transfer window. Keeping those big names is also important, as they all played a big role in the Saints' return to the Premier League.
Pre-Season:
Southampton's pre-season has been fairly ineventful, with only the one pre-season game of note. But at least it everything, to prepare the Saints for every eventuality that they may face in the Premier League. The Saints took the lead after just 7 minutes, with Lallana latching onto a Lambert through ball to finish neatly. They dominated the early stages, but a defensive error from the Saints rear guard meant that it was Sociedad who scored the leveller, with Elustondo the recipiant. Back came Southampton, with Wanyama threading a pass into Schneiderlin to finish well and give the Saints the lead back. But once again they let it slip, in a thrilling opening half hour. Just five minutes after falling behind, Carlos Vela beautifully controlled a through ball and fired beyond the despairing keeper to put the game back to level terms. Even then, the first half scoring wasn't complete. A Southampton corner on half time yielded the fifth goal, with Jos Hooiveld climbing highest to nod home.
The tempo didn't let up in the second half, causing an open and attractive game. With Southampton leading, the onus was on the Spaniards to come out and attack, and push forward they did. Once again, the Southampton defence seemed incapable to resist, conceding a third goal on the hour mark, as Haris Seferovic fired home to level for the third time. The longer the game went on it seemed inevitable that it would end a draw, but that all changed in the 83rd minute. Jason Puncheon found himself free in the box after a nice move, and he drove the ball home to hand the Saints an excellent and morale-boosting 4-3 victory. The only worries from a Southampton point of view were the injuries sustained to Nathaniel Clyne and Luke Shaw, the latter potentially ruling the young left back out of the early part of the new Premier League season.
Key Players:
It may well be his last season at the top level, but I still believe that Rickie Lambert has much to give the Saints again this campaign. Having the honour of scoring at all four league levels, the Scouser has found his true home in the Premier League. His power in the air and on the ground makes him an exceptional number 9, even getting him a call up to the England squad for the game last night against Scotland. The goal with his first touch shows that his form is not on the decline, and he can go for a couple of years yet!
Captain Alan Lallana is also a vital part of the squad on the south coast. Despite his lack of years, he has proven himself to be a superb leader, both on and off the field, and often chips in with valuable goals from midfield. His organisation and motivational skills means that Southampton miss his presence massively when unavailable, and his staying fit aids their push up the table.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Southampton vs Sunderland
15/09/2013: Southampton vs West Ham United
26/10/2013: Southampton vs Fulham
03/12/2013: Southampton vs Aston Villa
14/12/2013: Newcastle vs Southampton
18/01/2014: Sunderland vs Southampton
01/02/2014: Fulham vs Southampton
22/02/2014: West Ham United vs Southampton
29/03/2014: Southampton vs Newcastle
19/04/2014: Aston Villa vs Southampton
Top Goalscorer:
Whilst Rickie Lambert is crucial to the success of the Southampton side, I actually believe that this is going to be the season where we see Jay Rodriguez come of age. The ex-Burnley man found it difficult initially to acclimatise to life in the Premier League, meaning that he recieved only a handful of appearances, and even less goals in the first half of last season. However, as time continued, the Englishman eventually broke into the Saints side, and I feel that improvement will only continue in the months to come. He may not score more than 10, but I still think that will be enough for the accolade.
Prediction:
As much as the signings that Southampton have made are good, and the manager Mauricio Pochettino is a promising talent, we have seen the curse of the Second Season Syndrome come back and bite teams. Even last year, QPR fell to the same curse, and I expect Southampton to be the side that feels its effects this time around. Whilst I think they have the squad to resist the dreaded drop, I sense that this will be a season of consolidation and damage-limitation rather than pushing for a top-10 place.
Southampton 2013/2014: 15th
Transfer(s) In: Dejan Lovren (Lyon, £8.5 Million), Victor Wanyama (Celtic, £12.5 Million), Pablo Osvaldo (AS Roma, £15 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Steve De Ridder, Richard Chaplow (Released), Jason Puncheon (Crystal Palace, Loan)
Transfers Review:
Southampton have opted to stay with the core squad that put them safely into mid-table last campaign, choosing to add only 2 higher value players to their roster. In Dejan Lovren, they have added a highly capable central defender, whose pace, strength and technical abilites are all outstanding. He can certainly be the rock that Southampton lacked at the back for times last season. Further forward, Southampton's addition of Victor Wanyama, is, in my opinion, about the most perfect buy they could have made for their side. Full of energy, passing and great vision, the youngster has phenomenal potential, and despite being tracked by Liverpool, Manchester United and a host of other clubs, Southampton have done exceptionally well to persuade the Kenyan to move to St Mary's. More recently, the Saints have shattered their transfer record for a second time this summer, managing to secure striker Pablo Osvaldo from AS Roma for a reported £15 Million. The Italian is a proven goalscorer, and will bring his strength and ability in the air to the South Coast, where I am convinced he will be a success.
The fact that they have kept hold of other critical players, such as Gaston Ramirez, Rickie Lambert and Luke Shaw, means that they can afford to move for just a couple of higher ticket players in a transfer window. Keeping those big names is also important, as they all played a big role in the Saints' return to the Premier League.
Pre-Season:
Southampton's pre-season has been fairly ineventful, with only the one pre-season game of note. But at least it everything, to prepare the Saints for every eventuality that they may face in the Premier League. The Saints took the lead after just 7 minutes, with Lallana latching onto a Lambert through ball to finish neatly. They dominated the early stages, but a defensive error from the Saints rear guard meant that it was Sociedad who scored the leveller, with Elustondo the recipiant. Back came Southampton, with Wanyama threading a pass into Schneiderlin to finish well and give the Saints the lead back. But once again they let it slip, in a thrilling opening half hour. Just five minutes after falling behind, Carlos Vela beautifully controlled a through ball and fired beyond the despairing keeper to put the game back to level terms. Even then, the first half scoring wasn't complete. A Southampton corner on half time yielded the fifth goal, with Jos Hooiveld climbing highest to nod home.
The tempo didn't let up in the second half, causing an open and attractive game. With Southampton leading, the onus was on the Spaniards to come out and attack, and push forward they did. Once again, the Southampton defence seemed incapable to resist, conceding a third goal on the hour mark, as Haris Seferovic fired home to level for the third time. The longer the game went on it seemed inevitable that it would end a draw, but that all changed in the 83rd minute. Jason Puncheon found himself free in the box after a nice move, and he drove the ball home to hand the Saints an excellent and morale-boosting 4-3 victory. The only worries from a Southampton point of view were the injuries sustained to Nathaniel Clyne and Luke Shaw, the latter potentially ruling the young left back out of the early part of the new Premier League season.
Key Players:
It may well be his last season at the top level, but I still believe that Rickie Lambert has much to give the Saints again this campaign. Having the honour of scoring at all four league levels, the Scouser has found his true home in the Premier League. His power in the air and on the ground makes him an exceptional number 9, even getting him a call up to the England squad for the game last night against Scotland. The goal with his first touch shows that his form is not on the decline, and he can go for a couple of years yet!
Captain Alan Lallana is also a vital part of the squad on the south coast. Despite his lack of years, he has proven himself to be a superb leader, both on and off the field, and often chips in with valuable goals from midfield. His organisation and motivational skills means that Southampton miss his presence massively when unavailable, and his staying fit aids their push up the table.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Southampton vs Sunderland
15/09/2013: Southampton vs West Ham United
26/10/2013: Southampton vs Fulham
03/12/2013: Southampton vs Aston Villa
14/12/2013: Newcastle vs Southampton
18/01/2014: Sunderland vs Southampton
01/02/2014: Fulham vs Southampton
22/02/2014: West Ham United vs Southampton
29/03/2014: Southampton vs Newcastle
19/04/2014: Aston Villa vs Southampton
Top Goalscorer:
Whilst Rickie Lambert is crucial to the success of the Southampton side, I actually believe that this is going to be the season where we see Jay Rodriguez come of age. The ex-Burnley man found it difficult initially to acclimatise to life in the Premier League, meaning that he recieved only a handful of appearances, and even less goals in the first half of last season. However, as time continued, the Englishman eventually broke into the Saints side, and I feel that improvement will only continue in the months to come. He may not score more than 10, but I still think that will be enough for the accolade.
Prediction:
As much as the signings that Southampton have made are good, and the manager Mauricio Pochettino is a promising talent, we have seen the curse of the Second Season Syndrome come back and bite teams. Even last year, QPR fell to the same curse, and I expect Southampton to be the side that feels its effects this time around. Whilst I think they have the squad to resist the dreaded drop, I sense that this will be a season of consolidation and damage-limitation rather than pushing for a top-10 place.
Southampton 2013/2014: 15th
Norwich City: Can New Strikeforce Help Canaries Into Harmony?
2012/2013: 11th
Transfer(s) In: Gary Hooper (Celtic, £5 Million), Martin Olsson (Blackburn Rovers, Undisc), Nathan Redmond (Birmingham City, Undisc), Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Sporting Lisbon, £7.5 Million), Javier Garrido (Lazio, Undisc), Leroy Fer (FC Twente, Free), Carlo Nash (Stoke, Free), Johan Elmander (Galatasaray, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Grant Holt (Wigan, £2 Million), Leon Barnett (Wigan, Undisc), James Vaughan (Huddersfield, Undisc), Andrew Surman (Bournemouth, Loan), Declan Rudd (Preston North End, Loan), Chris Martin (Derby County, Free), Simeon Jackson, Lee Camp, Elliot Ward (All Released)
Transfers Review:
Norwich have been one of the most active teams in the transfer market this summer, making no fewer than 7 signings, and letting 9 first team members leave. This can have a detrimental effect on the team in the forthcoming season, as having a revolving door transfer policy tends to throw up a team that finds it difficult to gel. However, the signings that Chris Hughton has made seem to be more experienced than their current squad, with some even having continental experience. Once the initial settling-in period has passed, one would expect them to perform well in the league.
If we look at who has been signed, we see a wide range of positions across the field, concentrated mostly on bringing in a striker who has the potential to score 15 goals a season. The signings of Gary Hooper and Ricky van Wolfswinkel have attempted to rectify this problem, as the Canaries found it difficult to score last campaign. Both have had Champions League and Europa League experience, and are proven goalscorers in their previous countries. Forging a partnership should be the only challenge for this pair, as I am certain they will both score goals. In the midfield, Leroy Fer has been brought in to provide a bit of strength and defensive ability, and Nathan Redmond, who was looked upon as one of the hottest prospects during his time at Birmingham, will add pace and creativity on the wing. After a successful loan period, ex-Manchester City defender Javier Garrido has been signed on a permanent deal to bolster their defensive options, with Martin Olsson also brought in to give a wing-back option to attacking from defence. In goal, Carlo Nash has been enlisted. The veteran goalkeeper has presumably been signed mostly for his ability to teach the younger goalkeepers rather than as first team cover, as he has not managed to play top flight football for some time. If we look at my predictions in my Norwich season review post, we can see that I suggested that a winger would be most useful for the Canaries this campaign. In Nathan Redmond, they have a gem, and one that they can build into their squad for many years to come.
Whilst they have made a significant amount of signings, they have also let several first-team players go. They have managed to hang onto the likes of Robert Snodgrass, John Ruddy and Anthony Pilkington, all players that have played an integral part of their Premier League adventure, which is obviously positive. However, allowing players like Grant Holt and Leon Barnett to leave will leave the squad short on depth, though the fact that they have replaced them minimises the damage. The rest of the departees are mostly utility players, on the fringes of the Norwich team, so most Canaries fans will not be too sorry to see them leave. Overall, Norwich have been one of the more successful sides in the transfer market, and after they have settled, I expect most of the new signings to be successes at Carrow Road.
Pre-Season:
Norwich began their pre-season tour with a trip to America, where they played two exhibition matches.The first one was against Club Dorados de Sinoloa in Sacramento. Goals from Luciano Becchio, Anthony Pilkington and Josh Murphy sealed a superb 3-0 win to open their preparations. They followed this up with a narrow 1-0 defeat to the San Jose Earthquakes, before returning to English soil.
The Canaries continued their pre-season tour with a brief set of fixtures against English lower league clubs. Games against Brighton and Cambridge did not really indicate much about Norwich's form, but it did prepare them nicely for their final pre-season friendly, at home to Greek side Panathinaikos. An encouraging 2-0 win followed over the Greeks, but the more worrying news came in the shape of a potentially serious injury to new striker Gary Hooper. If he were to miss a large chunk of the start to the season, Norwich may be in trouble as he struggles to regain fitness and chemistry. Luckily for the Canaries, reports suggest that the injury is not as serious as intially feared, meaning that Hooper may well be available for Norwich's early season matches.
Key Players:
Whilst Norwich's signings are all good prospects, it is a midfield stalwart that may prove the linchpin in any success that the Norfolk side have this campaign. Bradley Johnson, one of three ex-Leeds United players currently plying their trade at Carrow Road, is arguably the most important of them. The defensive midfielder has improved year on year, and is relied upon heavily to break up the play in the centre of midfield, enabling Norwich to get back on the attack. He will need to continue this rate of progression if Norwich are going to steer clear of the relegation battle this time around.
Of all of their new recruits, Ricky van Wolfswinkel is arguably the most impressive. The former Sporting Lisbon man is a born goalscorer, and has good European pedigree, having taken part in both the Europa and Champions League. What he lacks in strength, he more than makes up for in agility, pace and finishing, meaning that Norwich now have a front line that many envy.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Hull vs Norwich
29/09/2013: Stoke vs Norwich
26/10/2013: Norwich vs Cardiff
30/11/2013: Norwich vs Crystal Palace
01/01/2014: Crystal Palace vs Norwich
18/01/2014: Norwich vs Hull
01/02/2014: Cardiff vs Norwich
08/03/2014: Norwich vs Stoke
Top Goalscorer:
This season, assuming that he recovers quickly from his injury, I expect Gary Hooper to win the race for the top goalscorer's accolade at Norwich this season. Ricky van Wolfswinkel will score several goals this season, but he will take time to adjust the pace and physicality of the English league. Hooper, on the other hand, has hand experience in the leagues both north and south of the border. With previous stints at Celtic and Scunthorpe United, he has the goalscoring ability to win matches for the Canaries this term.
Prediction:
With all of their signings, Norwich have the basis for a very successful team in the near future. However, with any major overhaul of a squad, it will take time to gel this group of individuals together. Chris Hughton is an excellent manager, but even he will take a while to get all 7 working to potential into the squad. As a result, I am expecting the Norfolk team to be involved in another relegation scrap this season. Should they survive, which I expect them to, I think that they will perform much better next campaign.
Norwich City 2013/2014: 17th
Transfer(s) In: Gary Hooper (Celtic, £5 Million), Martin Olsson (Blackburn Rovers, Undisc), Nathan Redmond (Birmingham City, Undisc), Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Sporting Lisbon, £7.5 Million), Javier Garrido (Lazio, Undisc), Leroy Fer (FC Twente, Free), Carlo Nash (Stoke, Free), Johan Elmander (Galatasaray, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Grant Holt (Wigan, £2 Million), Leon Barnett (Wigan, Undisc), James Vaughan (Huddersfield, Undisc), Andrew Surman (Bournemouth, Loan), Declan Rudd (Preston North End, Loan), Chris Martin (Derby County, Free), Simeon Jackson, Lee Camp, Elliot Ward (All Released)
Transfers Review:
Norwich have been one of the most active teams in the transfer market this summer, making no fewer than 7 signings, and letting 9 first team members leave. This can have a detrimental effect on the team in the forthcoming season, as having a revolving door transfer policy tends to throw up a team that finds it difficult to gel. However, the signings that Chris Hughton has made seem to be more experienced than their current squad, with some even having continental experience. Once the initial settling-in period has passed, one would expect them to perform well in the league.
If we look at who has been signed, we see a wide range of positions across the field, concentrated mostly on bringing in a striker who has the potential to score 15 goals a season. The signings of Gary Hooper and Ricky van Wolfswinkel have attempted to rectify this problem, as the Canaries found it difficult to score last campaign. Both have had Champions League and Europa League experience, and are proven goalscorers in their previous countries. Forging a partnership should be the only challenge for this pair, as I am certain they will both score goals. In the midfield, Leroy Fer has been brought in to provide a bit of strength and defensive ability, and Nathan Redmond, who was looked upon as one of the hottest prospects during his time at Birmingham, will add pace and creativity on the wing. After a successful loan period, ex-Manchester City defender Javier Garrido has been signed on a permanent deal to bolster their defensive options, with Martin Olsson also brought in to give a wing-back option to attacking from defence. In goal, Carlo Nash has been enlisted. The veteran goalkeeper has presumably been signed mostly for his ability to teach the younger goalkeepers rather than as first team cover, as he has not managed to play top flight football for some time. If we look at my predictions in my Norwich season review post, we can see that I suggested that a winger would be most useful for the Canaries this campaign. In Nathan Redmond, they have a gem, and one that they can build into their squad for many years to come.
Whilst they have made a significant amount of signings, they have also let several first-team players go. They have managed to hang onto the likes of Robert Snodgrass, John Ruddy and Anthony Pilkington, all players that have played an integral part of their Premier League adventure, which is obviously positive. However, allowing players like Grant Holt and Leon Barnett to leave will leave the squad short on depth, though the fact that they have replaced them minimises the damage. The rest of the departees are mostly utility players, on the fringes of the Norwich team, so most Canaries fans will not be too sorry to see them leave. Overall, Norwich have been one of the more successful sides in the transfer market, and after they have settled, I expect most of the new signings to be successes at Carrow Road.
Pre-Season:
Norwich began their pre-season tour with a trip to America, where they played two exhibition matches.The first one was against Club Dorados de Sinoloa in Sacramento. Goals from Luciano Becchio, Anthony Pilkington and Josh Murphy sealed a superb 3-0 win to open their preparations. They followed this up with a narrow 1-0 defeat to the San Jose Earthquakes, before returning to English soil.
The Canaries continued their pre-season tour with a brief set of fixtures against English lower league clubs. Games against Brighton and Cambridge did not really indicate much about Norwich's form, but it did prepare them nicely for their final pre-season friendly, at home to Greek side Panathinaikos. An encouraging 2-0 win followed over the Greeks, but the more worrying news came in the shape of a potentially serious injury to new striker Gary Hooper. If he were to miss a large chunk of the start to the season, Norwich may be in trouble as he struggles to regain fitness and chemistry. Luckily for the Canaries, reports suggest that the injury is not as serious as intially feared, meaning that Hooper may well be available for Norwich's early season matches.
Key Players:
Whilst Norwich's signings are all good prospects, it is a midfield stalwart that may prove the linchpin in any success that the Norfolk side have this campaign. Bradley Johnson, one of three ex-Leeds United players currently plying their trade at Carrow Road, is arguably the most important of them. The defensive midfielder has improved year on year, and is relied upon heavily to break up the play in the centre of midfield, enabling Norwich to get back on the attack. He will need to continue this rate of progression if Norwich are going to steer clear of the relegation battle this time around.
Of all of their new recruits, Ricky van Wolfswinkel is arguably the most impressive. The former Sporting Lisbon man is a born goalscorer, and has good European pedigree, having taken part in both the Europa and Champions League. What he lacks in strength, he more than makes up for in agility, pace and finishing, meaning that Norwich now have a front line that many envy.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Hull vs Norwich
29/09/2013: Stoke vs Norwich
26/10/2013: Norwich vs Cardiff
30/11/2013: Norwich vs Crystal Palace
01/01/2014: Crystal Palace vs Norwich
18/01/2014: Norwich vs Hull
01/02/2014: Cardiff vs Norwich
08/03/2014: Norwich vs Stoke
Top Goalscorer:
This season, assuming that he recovers quickly from his injury, I expect Gary Hooper to win the race for the top goalscorer's accolade at Norwich this season. Ricky van Wolfswinkel will score several goals this season, but he will take time to adjust the pace and physicality of the English league. Hooper, on the other hand, has hand experience in the leagues both north and south of the border. With previous stints at Celtic and Scunthorpe United, he has the goalscoring ability to win matches for the Canaries this term.
Prediction:
With all of their signings, Norwich have the basis for a very successful team in the near future. However, with any major overhaul of a squad, it will take time to gel this group of individuals together. Chris Hughton is an excellent manager, but even he will take a while to get all 7 working to potential into the squad. As a result, I am expecting the Norfolk team to be involved in another relegation scrap this season. Should they survive, which I expect them to, I think that they will perform much better next campaign.
Norwich City 2013/2014: 17th
Newcastle United: Will Too Many Cooks Spoil Their Season?
2012/2013: 16th
Transfer(s) In: Loic Remy (QPR, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: James Perch (QPR, Undisc), Steve Harper (Hull, Free), Shane Ferguson (Birmingham, Loan), Danny Simpson (Released)
Transfers Review:
Not much activity at St James Park this season. Despite the well publicised return of Joe Kinnear, with the promise of incomings, only Loic Remy to show for his efforts. All his return has seemed to do is create tensions and cracks between the management and the boadroom. With Alan Pardew having 6 years of an 8 year contract left to run, he isn't going anywhere. Therefore, bringing an ex-manager that criticises most of what the current man does into the club seems a poor idea. Remy looks a fantastic signing for Newcastle though, as his pace and skill put QPR back in with a shout of staving off relegation, and he will do similar things with Newcastle, just firther up the table.
The one benefit of this transfer window for Newcastle is the fact that they have managed to keep all of their star players from the previous seasons. For them to have kept players like Yohan Cabaye, Moussa Sissoko and Papiss Cisse is impressive, and they stand a good chance of a top 10 finish this season.
Pre-Season:
Newcastle's pre-season has been similarly anonymous, with only two pre-season matches of note. As we came into August, Newcastle took part in two games, against Rangers and Braga. Both games finished 1-1, giving us no real insight into the form or ability of this Newcastle side. Mostly, pre-season has been dominated by the inter-management squabbles, preventing Pardew from doing his job properly. This, along with the problem about Papiss Cisse, who refused to wear the club's sponsor, Wonga.com on their shirts, means that Newcastle's season has been rather turbulent, even before the actual league has begun.
Key Players:
If Newcastle are to have a successful season, then the midfield duo of Moussa Sissoko and Yohan Cabaye will have to contribute significantly. Sissoko, after he burst onto the Geordie scene with those two goals to win the home game against Chelsea in February, has looked an inspired signing for Alan Pardew. His pace, creativity and goalscoring ability means that he is the perfect person to push forward and support Cisse and Remy up front.
Cabaye, on the other hand, will provide the defensive work that Sissoko lacks, breaking up attacks and setting Newcastle away on forward bursts. His free-kicks are often exceptional, creating goals from corners as well, and his range and accuracy of passing means that he can often be as deadly from the half way line as Sissoko will be on the edge of the 18 year area. That partnership in the middle of the park could make or break Newcastle's season.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Newcastle vs West Ham United
31/08/2013: Newcastle vs Fulham
14/09/2013: Aston Villa vs Newcastle
27/10/2013: Sunderland vs Newcastle
14/12/2013: Newcastle vs Southampton
18/01/2014: West Ham United vs Newcastle
01/02/2014: Newcastle vs Sunderland
22/02/2014: Newcastle vs Aston Villa
15/03/2014: Fulham vs Newcastle
29/03/2014: Southampton vs Newcastle
Top Goalscorer:
Whilst Loic Remy is a good signing, and will score goals for his new club, I'm going to go with Papiss Cisse. If the Senegalese striker can reclaim some of the form that saw him score an average of nearly a goal a game in the 2011/2012 season, since joining from Freiburg in the January, I think that the Geordie contingent will be on for another memorable season.
Prediction:
Unfortunately for Newcastle, the 5th place finish a year ago has meant that expectations were unfairly raised for the next campaign, meaning that the relegation battle that they fell into was a much bigger shock than it needed to be. For me, with all the off-field distractions, I think that Newcastle will return to the position that their squad suggests: mid-table. They should be comfortable this year, without being spectacular, and I do believe that a solid season this time around could lay the foundations for a push up the table next time around.
Newcastle United 2013/2014: 10th
Transfer(s) In: Loic Remy (QPR, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: James Perch (QPR, Undisc), Steve Harper (Hull, Free), Shane Ferguson (Birmingham, Loan), Danny Simpson (Released)
Transfers Review:
Not much activity at St James Park this season. Despite the well publicised return of Joe Kinnear, with the promise of incomings, only Loic Remy to show for his efforts. All his return has seemed to do is create tensions and cracks between the management and the boadroom. With Alan Pardew having 6 years of an 8 year contract left to run, he isn't going anywhere. Therefore, bringing an ex-manager that criticises most of what the current man does into the club seems a poor idea. Remy looks a fantastic signing for Newcastle though, as his pace and skill put QPR back in with a shout of staving off relegation, and he will do similar things with Newcastle, just firther up the table.
The one benefit of this transfer window for Newcastle is the fact that they have managed to keep all of their star players from the previous seasons. For them to have kept players like Yohan Cabaye, Moussa Sissoko and Papiss Cisse is impressive, and they stand a good chance of a top 10 finish this season.
Pre-Season:
Newcastle's pre-season has been similarly anonymous, with only two pre-season matches of note. As we came into August, Newcastle took part in two games, against Rangers and Braga. Both games finished 1-1, giving us no real insight into the form or ability of this Newcastle side. Mostly, pre-season has been dominated by the inter-management squabbles, preventing Pardew from doing his job properly. This, along with the problem about Papiss Cisse, who refused to wear the club's sponsor, Wonga.com on their shirts, means that Newcastle's season has been rather turbulent, even before the actual league has begun.
Key Players:
If Newcastle are to have a successful season, then the midfield duo of Moussa Sissoko and Yohan Cabaye will have to contribute significantly. Sissoko, after he burst onto the Geordie scene with those two goals to win the home game against Chelsea in February, has looked an inspired signing for Alan Pardew. His pace, creativity and goalscoring ability means that he is the perfect person to push forward and support Cisse and Remy up front.
Cabaye, on the other hand, will provide the defensive work that Sissoko lacks, breaking up attacks and setting Newcastle away on forward bursts. His free-kicks are often exceptional, creating goals from corners as well, and his range and accuracy of passing means that he can often be as deadly from the half way line as Sissoko will be on the edge of the 18 year area. That partnership in the middle of the park could make or break Newcastle's season.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Newcastle vs West Ham United
31/08/2013: Newcastle vs Fulham
14/09/2013: Aston Villa vs Newcastle
27/10/2013: Sunderland vs Newcastle
14/12/2013: Newcastle vs Southampton
18/01/2014: West Ham United vs Newcastle
01/02/2014: Newcastle vs Sunderland
22/02/2014: Newcastle vs Aston Villa
15/03/2014: Fulham vs Newcastle
29/03/2014: Southampton vs Newcastle
Top Goalscorer:
Whilst Loic Remy is a good signing, and will score goals for his new club, I'm going to go with Papiss Cisse. If the Senegalese striker can reclaim some of the form that saw him score an average of nearly a goal a game in the 2011/2012 season, since joining from Freiburg in the January, I think that the Geordie contingent will be on for another memorable season.
Prediction:
Unfortunately for Newcastle, the 5th place finish a year ago has meant that expectations were unfairly raised for the next campaign, meaning that the relegation battle that they fell into was a much bigger shock than it needed to be. For me, with all the off-field distractions, I think that Newcastle will return to the position that their squad suggests: mid-table. They should be comfortable this year, without being spectacular, and I do believe that a solid season this time around could lay the foundations for a push up the table next time around.
Newcastle United 2013/2014: 10th
Wednesday, 14 August 2013
Manchester United: Replacing the Irreplaceable
2012/2013: 1st
Transfer(s) In: Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace, £15 Million) Alvaro Varela (Penarol, £2.5 Million), Marouane Fellaini (Everton, £27.5 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Paul Scholes, Sir Alex Ferguson (Retired)
Transfers Review:
Drawn out transfer sagas have characterised Manchester United's summer so far, with rumours about potential incomings and outgoings rife. These, without the actual signings of any marquee signings, have led many football commentators to question if players are as interested in playing under the guidance of David Moyes as they were under Sir Alex Ferguson, and whether this will have an impact on Manchester United's season. I wonder if Moyes is to be known as a 'nearly man' at Manchester United, having come close to signing several big names only to see them slip from within their grasp. Midfielders Thiago Alcantara went to Bayern Munich, whilst their main target Cesc Fabregas has elected to stay at Barcelona, after several failed bids. These failures have left Manchester United fans disenchanted with the new Chief Exec Ed Woodward and the manager, before the season has even really begun.
The signings that they have made appear ones for the future. Whilst Wilfried Zaha's transfer did officially go through in January, he has recently started breaking into the first team, seemingly suggesting that he plans on being a core part of the Manchester United squad. The first signing made during the summer transfer window was a relatively unknown defender called Alvaro Varela, who has been tipped to be an excellent prospect for the future. United fans expected further signings, as they fear the strength of both the Chelsea and Manchester City teams. Eventually, they got their wish, with Marouane Fellaini following Moyes from Everton, for a grossly inflated fee of £27.5 Million. However, if we consider my season review post for United from a couple of months ago, we see that I actually said that David Moyes getting to grips with the current United team would be the most important aspect of their pre-season. Certainly he has had the time to do that, but repeated rejections doesn't look particularly good.
Another important aspect for United, if they were unable to sign any big names, would be to keep hold of their current ones. Of the first team, only Paul Scholes has left, due to his second retirement. However, another transfer saga has dominated United's pre-season, with Wayne Rooney apparently unhappy and confused with his position at United under Moyes. After comments the new manager made to the press, which stated that Rooney would only be backup to Robin van Persie, Rooney has been looking for a new club. With Chelsea having two bids rejected already, I see this saga travelling right the way to the wire, as United seemingly want to keep the England striker, or if he is to leave, sending him to a title rival is probably not the smartest move!
Pre-Season:
David Moyes's Manchester United career started in the worst possible manner, with a 1-0 loss on their first pre-season match in their tour of Japan. After that defeat by the Singha All Stars, Moyes tasted victory for the first time with an emphatic 5-1 win over the A-League All Stars, with goals from Lingard, Welbeck and van Persie. Despite that morale-boosting victory, they then fell to their second defeat on tour, 3-2 to Yokohama F. Marinos, before only managing a draw to Cereso Osaka. They managed to end their tour with another emphatic win, 5-2 against Kitchee, with Wilfried Zaha looking particularly good in Asia, however, there will be much that Moyes will be concerned about over the next few months.
Their final two pre-season matches will have worried Moyes further. Starting with a trip to Stockholm to face AIK, and only managing a draw against a much weaker Swedish side, before a poor performance in a 3-1 defeat in Rio Ferdinand's testimonial against a Sevilla side missing several key players from the previous season. Those matches would have certainly not settled the nerves of the new United manager, especially before the curtain raiser of the season at Wembley stadium in the Charity Shield. However, they needn't have worried. They cruised through the game against Wigan, winning 2-0. To be fair, they were playing a full strength team against what is a side a league below them. Nevertheless, a win is a win, and it will give them momentum going into the season.
Key Players:
Without any big new signings, Manchester United run the risk of becoming a one-man team. In Robin van Persie, they have a man capable of winning the Golden Boot regardless of the team. He carried Arsenal for several years, and seems like he is beginning to carry this United team too. He has incredible ability both on the ground and in the air, and seems to have a predatory instinct for goal. I fully expect him to be back among the Golden Boot contenders once again this time around. United will be hoping that his injury-prone nature will not come back to haunt them.
David de Gea will also prove pivotal to United's season, as they were often accused of being poor in defence last campaign. De Gea was hailed as a great signing last year, and he will need to continue that form into this year. His reflexes are undoubted, and he has got better during his two years in England, but he still seems to struggle with crosses. He will have to improve that if they want to keep their title.
Key Fixture Dates:
26/08/2013: Manchester United vs Chelsea
01/09/2013: Liverpool vs Manchester United
22/09/2013: Manchester City vs Manchester United
10/11/2013: Manchester United vs Arsenal
30/11/2013: Tottenham vs Manchester United
03/12/2013: Manchester United vs Everton
01/01/2014: Manchester United vs Tottenham
18/01/2014: Chelsea vs Manchester United
11/02/2014: Arsenal vs Manchester United
01/03/2014: Manchester United vs Manchester City
15/03/2014: Manchester United vs Liverpool
19/04/2014: Everton vs Manchester United
Top Goalscorer:
A simple decision: Robin van Persie. He will definitely be around the top scorers charts again, without any injuries. I don't know if he will win his third successive crown, but I wouldn't put it past him. Whether he will score outrageous volleys like against Aston Villa and Everton, or deflected ones like against Wigan, any will be equally appreciated by United fans.
Prediction:
After Fergie bowed out at the end of an incredible two decades in charge, all the questions have been about whether Moyes can succeed him. In terms of signings, certainly not so far. In terms of performances, in pre-season it suggests not, but only time will tell if his league form can be compared to Sir Alex. However, it will take time, and with less experience than either of his title rivals, I think that Manchester United will finish behind the pair of them this season. But United tend to give their managers time, so Moyes will bounce back.
Manchester United 2013/2014: 3rd
Transfer(s) In: Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace, £15 Million) Alvaro Varela (Penarol, £2.5 Million), Marouane Fellaini (Everton, £27.5 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Paul Scholes, Sir Alex Ferguson (Retired)
Transfers Review:
Drawn out transfer sagas have characterised Manchester United's summer so far, with rumours about potential incomings and outgoings rife. These, without the actual signings of any marquee signings, have led many football commentators to question if players are as interested in playing under the guidance of David Moyes as they were under Sir Alex Ferguson, and whether this will have an impact on Manchester United's season. I wonder if Moyes is to be known as a 'nearly man' at Manchester United, having come close to signing several big names only to see them slip from within their grasp. Midfielders Thiago Alcantara went to Bayern Munich, whilst their main target Cesc Fabregas has elected to stay at Barcelona, after several failed bids. These failures have left Manchester United fans disenchanted with the new Chief Exec Ed Woodward and the manager, before the season has even really begun.
The signings that they have made appear ones for the future. Whilst Wilfried Zaha's transfer did officially go through in January, he has recently started breaking into the first team, seemingly suggesting that he plans on being a core part of the Manchester United squad. The first signing made during the summer transfer window was a relatively unknown defender called Alvaro Varela, who has been tipped to be an excellent prospect for the future. United fans expected further signings, as they fear the strength of both the Chelsea and Manchester City teams. Eventually, they got their wish, with Marouane Fellaini following Moyes from Everton, for a grossly inflated fee of £27.5 Million. However, if we consider my season review post for United from a couple of months ago, we see that I actually said that David Moyes getting to grips with the current United team would be the most important aspect of their pre-season. Certainly he has had the time to do that, but repeated rejections doesn't look particularly good.
Another important aspect for United, if they were unable to sign any big names, would be to keep hold of their current ones. Of the first team, only Paul Scholes has left, due to his second retirement. However, another transfer saga has dominated United's pre-season, with Wayne Rooney apparently unhappy and confused with his position at United under Moyes. After comments the new manager made to the press, which stated that Rooney would only be backup to Robin van Persie, Rooney has been looking for a new club. With Chelsea having two bids rejected already, I see this saga travelling right the way to the wire, as United seemingly want to keep the England striker, or if he is to leave, sending him to a title rival is probably not the smartest move!
Pre-Season:
David Moyes's Manchester United career started in the worst possible manner, with a 1-0 loss on their first pre-season match in their tour of Japan. After that defeat by the Singha All Stars, Moyes tasted victory for the first time with an emphatic 5-1 win over the A-League All Stars, with goals from Lingard, Welbeck and van Persie. Despite that morale-boosting victory, they then fell to their second defeat on tour, 3-2 to Yokohama F. Marinos, before only managing a draw to Cereso Osaka. They managed to end their tour with another emphatic win, 5-2 against Kitchee, with Wilfried Zaha looking particularly good in Asia, however, there will be much that Moyes will be concerned about over the next few months.
Their final two pre-season matches will have worried Moyes further. Starting with a trip to Stockholm to face AIK, and only managing a draw against a much weaker Swedish side, before a poor performance in a 3-1 defeat in Rio Ferdinand's testimonial against a Sevilla side missing several key players from the previous season. Those matches would have certainly not settled the nerves of the new United manager, especially before the curtain raiser of the season at Wembley stadium in the Charity Shield. However, they needn't have worried. They cruised through the game against Wigan, winning 2-0. To be fair, they were playing a full strength team against what is a side a league below them. Nevertheless, a win is a win, and it will give them momentum going into the season.
Key Players:
Without any big new signings, Manchester United run the risk of becoming a one-man team. In Robin van Persie, they have a man capable of winning the Golden Boot regardless of the team. He carried Arsenal for several years, and seems like he is beginning to carry this United team too. He has incredible ability both on the ground and in the air, and seems to have a predatory instinct for goal. I fully expect him to be back among the Golden Boot contenders once again this time around. United will be hoping that his injury-prone nature will not come back to haunt them.
David de Gea will also prove pivotal to United's season, as they were often accused of being poor in defence last campaign. De Gea was hailed as a great signing last year, and he will need to continue that form into this year. His reflexes are undoubted, and he has got better during his two years in England, but he still seems to struggle with crosses. He will have to improve that if they want to keep their title.
Key Fixture Dates:
26/08/2013: Manchester United vs Chelsea
01/09/2013: Liverpool vs Manchester United
22/09/2013: Manchester City vs Manchester United
10/11/2013: Manchester United vs Arsenal
30/11/2013: Tottenham vs Manchester United
03/12/2013: Manchester United vs Everton
01/01/2014: Manchester United vs Tottenham
18/01/2014: Chelsea vs Manchester United
11/02/2014: Arsenal vs Manchester United
01/03/2014: Manchester United vs Manchester City
15/03/2014: Manchester United vs Liverpool
19/04/2014: Everton vs Manchester United
Top Goalscorer:
A simple decision: Robin van Persie. He will definitely be around the top scorers charts again, without any injuries. I don't know if he will win his third successive crown, but I wouldn't put it past him. Whether he will score outrageous volleys like against Aston Villa and Everton, or deflected ones like against Wigan, any will be equally appreciated by United fans.
Prediction:
After Fergie bowed out at the end of an incredible two decades in charge, all the questions have been about whether Moyes can succeed him. In terms of signings, certainly not so far. In terms of performances, in pre-season it suggests not, but only time will tell if his league form can be compared to Sir Alex. However, it will take time, and with less experience than either of his title rivals, I think that Manchester United will finish behind the pair of them this season. But United tend to give their managers time, so Moyes will bounce back.
Manchester United 2013/2014: 3rd
Manchester City: New Man, Same Spending Plan
2012/2013: 2nd
Transfer(s) In: Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk, £30 Million), Jesus Navas (Sevilla, £15 Million), Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla, £20 Million), Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina, £22 Million), Manuel Pellegrini (Malaga, Free), Martin Demichelis (Atletico Madrid, £4 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Maicon (AS Roma, £3 Million), Carlos Tevez (Juventus, £12 Million), Kolo Toure (Liverpool, Free), Wayne Bridge, Roque Santa Cruz (Both Released), Roberto Mancini (Sacked), Scott Sinclair (West Bromwich Albion, Loan), Gareth Barry (Everton, Loan)
Transfers Review:
Yet another season where Manchester City have spent big in the transfer market. After a season where they missed out on many of their targets (Hazard, van Persie), Manchester City ensured that they didn't miss out on their top targets this time around, securing the signatures of Fernandinho and Jesus Navas very early in the window for large fees. Fernandinho's transfer in particular was suggested as being for a highly inflated transfer fee, but with the spending power of City, £30 Million can be spent without thinking. However, with the new Financial Fair Play regulations, arguments have been raised that this is perhaps one of the last seasons where we see inflated transfer fees. I disagree, but it is hard to imagine how a football club can easily circumvent these new rules. If we compare their signings to who I thought they would sign in my season review post, we see that I did actually predict the signing of Jesus Navas, along with a replacement for Mario Balotelli.
They was one transfer target that City did miss out on this season. Edinson Cavani had been admired for a while by the City scouts, and his name repeatedly cropped up on the radar of the world's richest club. However, when Napoli asked for a fee of £55 Million for the striker, City decided that this was too much to pay for the Uruguayan, opting instead for the La Liga striker Alvaro Negredo, and the promising young Montenegran Stevan Jovetic from Fiorentina. This took their summer spending to £90 Million, and with Martin Demichelis being brought in as defensive cover, City decided that the £100 Million mark would not be broken.
In terms of outgoings, Manchester City have let several names go, the most high profile of which was long term wantaway striker Carlos Tevez. After the 'refusing to play' debacle in their title winning season, Tevez returned to the club last year with a better attitude. Having made his intentions not to sign a new contract clear, in order to get any money back for the Argentine, City had to sell him this summer. Juventus got the deal done very quickly, for a reported fee of £12 Million. Other first team departures include Maicon after a brief spell in Manchester, Kolo Toure, after his contract expired, and the failures Wayne Bridge and Roque Santa Cruz.
Pre-Season:
Manchester City's pre-season got off to a poor start, with two consecutive defeats in their tour of South Africa. Though the team consisted mostly of youth players, it was hardly the start that Manuel Pellegrini needed for his new club. The first real taste of competitive football came at the Barclays Asia Trophy, where Manchester City were drawn to play South China in the semi-final. On a horrendous pitch, despite dominating the play, City only managed the one goal, scored by Edin Dzeko, taking them to the final. There they met Sunderland, where another Edin Dzeko goal inspired City to their first 'silverware' of their pre-season tour. After the success in Hong Kong, City moved back to Europe to take part in the Audi Cup. In the semi-final, they met AC Milan. In an incredible first half, City took a 5-0 lead after just half an hour, only to see the Rossoneri fight back to reduce the arrears to 2 by half time. A boring second half followed, meaning that City progressed to the final to face Bayern Munich.
The match against the current European champions, who had had a much longer preparation time, seemed the best test of City's European aspirations. It proved that City were close to the European champions, but still needing plenty of practice before they can realistically challenge, as they lost 2-1. They finished their pre-season tour on home soil, with a match at the Emirates to face Arsenal. Here, they suffered arguably their worst pre-season result going down 3-1. This suggests that City's spending has not necessarily improved their chemistry and playing style, but we will only know for sure after the first couple of months.
Key Players:
After a poor season by his own high standards, Vincent Kompany will need to be back to his best if City are going to reclaim the title this season. He proved during the 2011/2012 season that he is one of the best defender in the world. Dangerous from set pieces, as well as having superb anticipation and marking skills, the Manchester City captain is a leader both on and off the field and will need to inspire his teammates this campaign.
Of all the new signings, I think that the one that City most needed was Jesus Navas. I am not just saying that because I predicted that signing in my season review post, but because City had no wide alternative if they failed to steamroller a team through the middle. Now, they have a world class plan B, which Pellegrini may actually turn into plan A. Navas's prodigious pace and skill makes him a threat to all Premier League defences, and I am certain he will make himself a key player this season.
Key Fixture Dates:
22/09/2013: Manchester City vs Manchester United
27/10/2013: Chelsea vs Manchester City
23/11/2013: Manchester City vs Tottenham
14/12/2013: Manchester City vs Arsenal
29/01/2014: Tottenham vs Manchester City
01/02/2014: Manchester City vs Chelsea
01/03/2014: Manchester United vs Manchester City
29/03/2014: Arsenal vs Manchester City
Top Goalscorer:
After an unfortunate season with injuries, I think this will be the season where we see Sergio Aguero back to his best. The title winner missed a couple of months of their defence, which could have proved vital. His goal against Manchester United in April showed that his poaching instinct has not faded, and I am certain that he will challenge for the Golden Boot this time around. I expect at least 20 goals from the Argentine, with his pace and finishing ability being of critical importance for City.
Prediction:
Based on the relative strength of squads, I think few would doubt that Manchester City have the strongest set of individuals this season. However, as with last season, the best set of individuals does not mean the best team. Getting the new players to gel, along with fixing the problems from last campaign, and settling into the Premier League, means that Manuel Pellegrini's job will be considerably more tough than either of the other title contenders. However, 'The Engineer's' experience both in domestic and contintental competitions worldwide means that I feel he will leapfrog his city rivals, but will not do quite enough to clinch the title. Whether he keeps his job will depend on his European credentials.
Manchester City 2013/2014: 2nd
Transfer(s) In: Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk, £30 Million), Jesus Navas (Sevilla, £15 Million), Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla, £20 Million), Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina, £22 Million), Manuel Pellegrini (Malaga, Free), Martin Demichelis (Atletico Madrid, £4 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Maicon (AS Roma, £3 Million), Carlos Tevez (Juventus, £12 Million), Kolo Toure (Liverpool, Free), Wayne Bridge, Roque Santa Cruz (Both Released), Roberto Mancini (Sacked), Scott Sinclair (West Bromwich Albion, Loan), Gareth Barry (Everton, Loan)
Transfers Review:
Yet another season where Manchester City have spent big in the transfer market. After a season where they missed out on many of their targets (Hazard, van Persie), Manchester City ensured that they didn't miss out on their top targets this time around, securing the signatures of Fernandinho and Jesus Navas very early in the window for large fees. Fernandinho's transfer in particular was suggested as being for a highly inflated transfer fee, but with the spending power of City, £30 Million can be spent without thinking. However, with the new Financial Fair Play regulations, arguments have been raised that this is perhaps one of the last seasons where we see inflated transfer fees. I disagree, but it is hard to imagine how a football club can easily circumvent these new rules. If we compare their signings to who I thought they would sign in my season review post, we see that I did actually predict the signing of Jesus Navas, along with a replacement for Mario Balotelli.
They was one transfer target that City did miss out on this season. Edinson Cavani had been admired for a while by the City scouts, and his name repeatedly cropped up on the radar of the world's richest club. However, when Napoli asked for a fee of £55 Million for the striker, City decided that this was too much to pay for the Uruguayan, opting instead for the La Liga striker Alvaro Negredo, and the promising young Montenegran Stevan Jovetic from Fiorentina. This took their summer spending to £90 Million, and with Martin Demichelis being brought in as defensive cover, City decided that the £100 Million mark would not be broken.
In terms of outgoings, Manchester City have let several names go, the most high profile of which was long term wantaway striker Carlos Tevez. After the 'refusing to play' debacle in their title winning season, Tevez returned to the club last year with a better attitude. Having made his intentions not to sign a new contract clear, in order to get any money back for the Argentine, City had to sell him this summer. Juventus got the deal done very quickly, for a reported fee of £12 Million. Other first team departures include Maicon after a brief spell in Manchester, Kolo Toure, after his contract expired, and the failures Wayne Bridge and Roque Santa Cruz.
Pre-Season:
Manchester City's pre-season got off to a poor start, with two consecutive defeats in their tour of South Africa. Though the team consisted mostly of youth players, it was hardly the start that Manuel Pellegrini needed for his new club. The first real taste of competitive football came at the Barclays Asia Trophy, where Manchester City were drawn to play South China in the semi-final. On a horrendous pitch, despite dominating the play, City only managed the one goal, scored by Edin Dzeko, taking them to the final. There they met Sunderland, where another Edin Dzeko goal inspired City to their first 'silverware' of their pre-season tour. After the success in Hong Kong, City moved back to Europe to take part in the Audi Cup. In the semi-final, they met AC Milan. In an incredible first half, City took a 5-0 lead after just half an hour, only to see the Rossoneri fight back to reduce the arrears to 2 by half time. A boring second half followed, meaning that City progressed to the final to face Bayern Munich.
The match against the current European champions, who had had a much longer preparation time, seemed the best test of City's European aspirations. It proved that City were close to the European champions, but still needing plenty of practice before they can realistically challenge, as they lost 2-1. They finished their pre-season tour on home soil, with a match at the Emirates to face Arsenal. Here, they suffered arguably their worst pre-season result going down 3-1. This suggests that City's spending has not necessarily improved their chemistry and playing style, but we will only know for sure after the first couple of months.
Key Players:
After a poor season by his own high standards, Vincent Kompany will need to be back to his best if City are going to reclaim the title this season. He proved during the 2011/2012 season that he is one of the best defender in the world. Dangerous from set pieces, as well as having superb anticipation and marking skills, the Manchester City captain is a leader both on and off the field and will need to inspire his teammates this campaign.
Of all the new signings, I think that the one that City most needed was Jesus Navas. I am not just saying that because I predicted that signing in my season review post, but because City had no wide alternative if they failed to steamroller a team through the middle. Now, they have a world class plan B, which Pellegrini may actually turn into plan A. Navas's prodigious pace and skill makes him a threat to all Premier League defences, and I am certain he will make himself a key player this season.
Key Fixture Dates:
22/09/2013: Manchester City vs Manchester United
27/10/2013: Chelsea vs Manchester City
23/11/2013: Manchester City vs Tottenham
14/12/2013: Manchester City vs Arsenal
29/01/2014: Tottenham vs Manchester City
01/02/2014: Manchester City vs Chelsea
01/03/2014: Manchester United vs Manchester City
29/03/2014: Arsenal vs Manchester City
Top Goalscorer:
After an unfortunate season with injuries, I think this will be the season where we see Sergio Aguero back to his best. The title winner missed a couple of months of their defence, which could have proved vital. His goal against Manchester United in April showed that his poaching instinct has not faded, and I am certain that he will challenge for the Golden Boot this time around. I expect at least 20 goals from the Argentine, with his pace and finishing ability being of critical importance for City.
Prediction:
Based on the relative strength of squads, I think few would doubt that Manchester City have the strongest set of individuals this season. However, as with last season, the best set of individuals does not mean the best team. Getting the new players to gel, along with fixing the problems from last campaign, and settling into the Premier League, means that Manuel Pellegrini's job will be considerably more tough than either of the other title contenders. However, 'The Engineer's' experience both in domestic and contintental competitions worldwide means that I feel he will leapfrog his city rivals, but will not do quite enough to clinch the title. Whether he keeps his job will depend on his European credentials.
Manchester City 2013/2014: 2nd
Liverpool: Will The 'Suarez Saga' Wreck Their Chances?
2012/2013: 7th
Transfer(s) In: Simon Mignolet (Sunderland, £9 Million), Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo, £7 Million), Luis Alberto (Sevilla, Undisc), Kolo Toure (Manchester City, Free), Aly Cissoko (Valencia, Loan), Victor Moses (Chelsea, Loan), Tiago Ilori (Sporting Lisbon, £7 Million), Mahmadou Sakho (Paris Saint Germain, £18 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Stuart Downing (West Ham United, £5 Million), Jay Spearing (Bolton Wanderers, Undisc), Pepe Reina (Napoli, Loan), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea, £6 Million), Andy Carroll (West Ham United, £15 Million), Jamie Carragher (Retired)
Transfers Review:
Liverpool have made several good additions to the squad this summer, with central defender Kolo Toure the first to be announced. With Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger the only top defenders in the squad, the addition of the experienced member of the 'Invincibles' can only be positive. Mixing youth with experience, the signing of Luis Alberto is certainly one that was intended to replace the departing Jonjo Shelvey. Iago Aspas, the ex-Celta Vigo striker, will add valuable goals after an excellent season in La Liga last term. Another crucial signing was Simon Mignolet. The young goalkeeper has proven his ability at Sunderland, and I feel will go on to become one of Europe's top keepers in the next few years. They were relatively busy in the days leading up to the deadline, with three further incomings. Defenders Tiago Ilori and Mahmadou Sakho will be very useful signings, and Victor Moses will provide a little more creativity down the wings. If we look at my Liverpool season review post, in which I predicted their signings this summer, just a central defender was what I foresaw. In Kolo Toure they have that, and I suspect that their other signings will only push them to better performances this campaign.
As much as their incomings are positive, they have also lost several members of the squad, members that were used at least semi-regularly last season. Jamie Carragher's decision to retire was not a surprise, but Liverpool will miss his experience and leadership in defence. Two promising youth prospects have also left the club this summer, with Jay Spearing and Jonjo Shelvey opting to join Bolton Wanderers and Swansea respectively. Whilst they may not have been regular starters, they certainly affect the strength and depth of the squad, which could take its toll later on. One fo the least surprising transfers was Andy Carroll's to West Ham. After a successful loan period last term, it came as little surprise that West Ham moved to make his move permanent. With Brendan Rodgers clearly illustrating that the big Geordie was surplus to requirements at Anfield, the striker knew that he would soon have to look elsewhere. With West Ham interested, the deal suited both parties. West Ham also made another signing from Liverpool, with Stuart Downing, who Sam Allardyce claimed was an unrealistic target just a few weeks ago, making the trip down to East London to sign for £5 Million. After his form improved drastically last campaign, I wonder if this was a good decision from the Northern Irish manager, as I feel Downing had more to give at Anfield.
However, this transfer window has been beset by controversy for Liverpool, with their talismanic striker Luis Suarez making clear designs to leave the North West club. With regular links to Real Madrid, with the striker admitting that he wanted to join the Spanish side. As the transfer window rolled on, Arsenal became more and more interested in the Uruguayan, with Arsene Wenger a clear admirer of the striker. An initial offer of a reported £30 Million was rejected out of hand by Liverpool, before Arsenal attempted to unlock a clause in his contract with an offer of £40 Million and £1. Though the Gunners did not know it at the time, the clause only meant that Liverpool had to alert Suarez and allow him to talk to Arsenal, not that they had to release the Uruguayan. This pedantry has caused Suarez to become more and more disenchanted with Liverpool, making an increased number of clear statements about his intention to leave. This has culminated in Rodgers insisting that the striker has shown a 'lack of respect' to the club and forcing him to train alone. Whilst this is the most high-profile controversy, Pepe Reina's move to Napoli is another instance in which the club, and Rodgers in particular, has been accused of being disrespectful. Reina, on arrival in Italy, accused his manager of loaning him to the Serie A club without telling him, saying that he felt hurt and that he deserved better. This shows that there may be blame on both sides of the Suarez debate, but thankfully for Liverpool, the Uruguayan seems to have put this behind him. This could have had disastrous consequences for the North West club's season, as a disruptive part of the squad would inevitably have had an effect. As it is, the Reds will miss out on the striker for the opening 6 games of the season (the punishment for his bite on Branislav Ivanovic), but they will be glad to have his ability back at their disposal, and he may be valuable later on.
Pre-Season:
The 'Suarez saga' has seemingly not had any effect on the squad throughout the pre-season, as the Liverpool results indicate that it has actually brought them together as a unit. Liverpool started with a comfortable 4-0 victory away at Preston before embarking on a tour of Asia. During this tour, Liverpool won all three of their matches, without conceding a single goal. They began with a 2-0 win against the Indonesia All Stars, before a success by the same scoreline against Melbourne Victory, and finishing with a 3-0 victory against Thailand. Moving back to the UK, Liverpool also played three further fixtures.
They started their run to the Premier League season with a match against Greek side Olympiakos, in Steven Gerrard's testimonial. The England midfield is best known in Liverpool for 'that goal' against the Greeks in 2005, which set them on their way to the Champions League title. A 2-0 success in this game for the Scouser, after goals from Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson. A second game against Valerenga ended in a 4-1 victory for Liverpool, with goals from Aspas, Alberto, Sterling and Kelly. The Reds ended their pre-season preparations with a visit to Celtic. After a perfect pre-season that had seen them win 6 straight matches, Liverpool lost their final game 1-0, after a goal from Amino Balde. This was the worst possible way to end their preparations, especially after such a promising start.
Key Players:
I would say that a player that will be crucial to Liverpool's success is Phillipe Coutinho. The little Brazilian impressed since his move to the North West in January 2013, creating multiple chances and goals for the strike partnership of Suarez and Daniel Sturridge. His form will continue this season, as his vision and passing ability will make him a valuable asset to Liverpool.
At the back, Martin Skrtel will have to be a rock in order to improve their defensive record over the last couple of seasons. Liverpool have had a tendency to concede soft goals, and this is something they will need to cut out if they are to try and challenge for one of the Champions League places.
Key Fixture Dates:
01/09/2013: Liverpool vs Manchester United
02/11/2013: Arsenal vs Liverpool
23/11/2013: Everton vs Liverpool
14/12/2013: Tottenham vs Liverpool
28/01/2014: Liverpool vs Everton
08/02/2014: Liverpool vs Arsenal
15/03/2014: Manchester United vs Liverpool
29/03/2014: Liverpool vs Tottenham
Top Goalscorer:
In my opinion, with the departure of Suarez seeming imminent, I feel that the man to take over his mantle is Daniel Sturridge. The ex-Manchester City and Chelsea man showed impressive form since his move to Liverpool, and I expect this to continue. His partnership with Coutinho flourished at Anfield, and their understanding of one another will only strengthen in the months to come. I do not believe that he will challenge the Golden Boot this season, but 15-20 goals is the best he can expect to achieve.
Prediction:
Liverpool will be aiming for a European spot this season, with the rather optimistic target of the top 4 being bandied about by many football commentators. I do not believe that Liverpool have returned to their glory days, nor do I feel that they have an adequately deep or strong squad to compete with the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal over the course of the whole season. I think that the best that they can expect is to leapfrog Everton into 6th this campaign. With stability finally seeming possible for Liverpool, it will need small steps back towards the Champions League spots, meaning that this season is too son for that.
Liverpool 2013/2014: 6th
Transfer(s) In: Simon Mignolet (Sunderland, £9 Million), Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo, £7 Million), Luis Alberto (Sevilla, Undisc), Kolo Toure (Manchester City, Free), Aly Cissoko (Valencia, Loan), Victor Moses (Chelsea, Loan), Tiago Ilori (Sporting Lisbon, £7 Million), Mahmadou Sakho (Paris Saint Germain, £18 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Stuart Downing (West Ham United, £5 Million), Jay Spearing (Bolton Wanderers, Undisc), Pepe Reina (Napoli, Loan), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea, £6 Million), Andy Carroll (West Ham United, £15 Million), Jamie Carragher (Retired)
Transfers Review:
Liverpool have made several good additions to the squad this summer, with central defender Kolo Toure the first to be announced. With Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger the only top defenders in the squad, the addition of the experienced member of the 'Invincibles' can only be positive. Mixing youth with experience, the signing of Luis Alberto is certainly one that was intended to replace the departing Jonjo Shelvey. Iago Aspas, the ex-Celta Vigo striker, will add valuable goals after an excellent season in La Liga last term. Another crucial signing was Simon Mignolet. The young goalkeeper has proven his ability at Sunderland, and I feel will go on to become one of Europe's top keepers in the next few years. They were relatively busy in the days leading up to the deadline, with three further incomings. Defenders Tiago Ilori and Mahmadou Sakho will be very useful signings, and Victor Moses will provide a little more creativity down the wings. If we look at my Liverpool season review post, in which I predicted their signings this summer, just a central defender was what I foresaw. In Kolo Toure they have that, and I suspect that their other signings will only push them to better performances this campaign.
As much as their incomings are positive, they have also lost several members of the squad, members that were used at least semi-regularly last season. Jamie Carragher's decision to retire was not a surprise, but Liverpool will miss his experience and leadership in defence. Two promising youth prospects have also left the club this summer, with Jay Spearing and Jonjo Shelvey opting to join Bolton Wanderers and Swansea respectively. Whilst they may not have been regular starters, they certainly affect the strength and depth of the squad, which could take its toll later on. One fo the least surprising transfers was Andy Carroll's to West Ham. After a successful loan period last term, it came as little surprise that West Ham moved to make his move permanent. With Brendan Rodgers clearly illustrating that the big Geordie was surplus to requirements at Anfield, the striker knew that he would soon have to look elsewhere. With West Ham interested, the deal suited both parties. West Ham also made another signing from Liverpool, with Stuart Downing, who Sam Allardyce claimed was an unrealistic target just a few weeks ago, making the trip down to East London to sign for £5 Million. After his form improved drastically last campaign, I wonder if this was a good decision from the Northern Irish manager, as I feel Downing had more to give at Anfield.
However, this transfer window has been beset by controversy for Liverpool, with their talismanic striker Luis Suarez making clear designs to leave the North West club. With regular links to Real Madrid, with the striker admitting that he wanted to join the Spanish side. As the transfer window rolled on, Arsenal became more and more interested in the Uruguayan, with Arsene Wenger a clear admirer of the striker. An initial offer of a reported £30 Million was rejected out of hand by Liverpool, before Arsenal attempted to unlock a clause in his contract with an offer of £40 Million and £1. Though the Gunners did not know it at the time, the clause only meant that Liverpool had to alert Suarez and allow him to talk to Arsenal, not that they had to release the Uruguayan. This pedantry has caused Suarez to become more and more disenchanted with Liverpool, making an increased number of clear statements about his intention to leave. This has culminated in Rodgers insisting that the striker has shown a 'lack of respect' to the club and forcing him to train alone. Whilst this is the most high-profile controversy, Pepe Reina's move to Napoli is another instance in which the club, and Rodgers in particular, has been accused of being disrespectful. Reina, on arrival in Italy, accused his manager of loaning him to the Serie A club without telling him, saying that he felt hurt and that he deserved better. This shows that there may be blame on both sides of the Suarez debate, but thankfully for Liverpool, the Uruguayan seems to have put this behind him. This could have had disastrous consequences for the North West club's season, as a disruptive part of the squad would inevitably have had an effect. As it is, the Reds will miss out on the striker for the opening 6 games of the season (the punishment for his bite on Branislav Ivanovic), but they will be glad to have his ability back at their disposal, and he may be valuable later on.
Pre-Season:
The 'Suarez saga' has seemingly not had any effect on the squad throughout the pre-season, as the Liverpool results indicate that it has actually brought them together as a unit. Liverpool started with a comfortable 4-0 victory away at Preston before embarking on a tour of Asia. During this tour, Liverpool won all three of their matches, without conceding a single goal. They began with a 2-0 win against the Indonesia All Stars, before a success by the same scoreline against Melbourne Victory, and finishing with a 3-0 victory against Thailand. Moving back to the UK, Liverpool also played three further fixtures.
They started their run to the Premier League season with a match against Greek side Olympiakos, in Steven Gerrard's testimonial. The England midfield is best known in Liverpool for 'that goal' against the Greeks in 2005, which set them on their way to the Champions League title. A 2-0 success in this game for the Scouser, after goals from Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson. A second game against Valerenga ended in a 4-1 victory for Liverpool, with goals from Aspas, Alberto, Sterling and Kelly. The Reds ended their pre-season preparations with a visit to Celtic. After a perfect pre-season that had seen them win 6 straight matches, Liverpool lost their final game 1-0, after a goal from Amino Balde. This was the worst possible way to end their preparations, especially after such a promising start.
Key Players:
I would say that a player that will be crucial to Liverpool's success is Phillipe Coutinho. The little Brazilian impressed since his move to the North West in January 2013, creating multiple chances and goals for the strike partnership of Suarez and Daniel Sturridge. His form will continue this season, as his vision and passing ability will make him a valuable asset to Liverpool.
At the back, Martin Skrtel will have to be a rock in order to improve their defensive record over the last couple of seasons. Liverpool have had a tendency to concede soft goals, and this is something they will need to cut out if they are to try and challenge for one of the Champions League places.
Key Fixture Dates:
01/09/2013: Liverpool vs Manchester United
02/11/2013: Arsenal vs Liverpool
23/11/2013: Everton vs Liverpool
14/12/2013: Tottenham vs Liverpool
28/01/2014: Liverpool vs Everton
08/02/2014: Liverpool vs Arsenal
15/03/2014: Manchester United vs Liverpool
29/03/2014: Liverpool vs Tottenham
Top Goalscorer:
In my opinion, with the departure of Suarez seeming imminent, I feel that the man to take over his mantle is Daniel Sturridge. The ex-Manchester City and Chelsea man showed impressive form since his move to Liverpool, and I expect this to continue. His partnership with Coutinho flourished at Anfield, and their understanding of one another will only strengthen in the months to come. I do not believe that he will challenge the Golden Boot this season, but 15-20 goals is the best he can expect to achieve.
Prediction:
Liverpool will be aiming for a European spot this season, with the rather optimistic target of the top 4 being bandied about by many football commentators. I do not believe that Liverpool have returned to their glory days, nor do I feel that they have an adequately deep or strong squad to compete with the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal over the course of the whole season. I think that the best that they can expect is to leapfrog Everton into 6th this campaign. With stability finally seeming possible for Liverpool, it will need small steps back towards the Champions League spots, meaning that this season is too son for that.
Liverpool 2013/2014: 6th
Tuesday, 13 August 2013
Hull City Tigers: Roaring Back To The Big Time
2012/2013: 2nd (Championship)
Transfer(s) In: Yannick Sagbo (Evian, Undisc), Danny Graham (Sunderland, Loan), Steve Harper (Newcastle, Free), Allan McGregor (Rangers, £2 Million), Curtis Davies (Birmingham, £2 Million), George Boyd (Peterborough, Free), Maynor Figueroa (Wigan Athletic, Free), Ahmed Elmohamedy (Sunderland, £2 Million), Calaum Jahraldo-Martin (Dulwich, Free), Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham, £5 Million), Jake Livermore (Tottenham, Loan), Mohamed Nagy (Al-Ahly, Loan), Medo (Al-Ahly, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Corry Evans (Blackburn Rovers, Undisc), Andy Dawson (Scunthorpe United, Free), Seyi Olofinjana (Sheffield Wednesday, Loan)
Transfers Review:
As you can see from the lists above, Hull's incomings this campaign far outstrip their sales this summer. This clearly implies their intentions and their spending power, with their Egyptian owners clearly happy to splash the cash. In Yannick Sagbo and Danny Graham they have two strikers highly capable of scoring goals in the Premier League. The Tigers have also improved their defence, with Curtis Davies and Maynor Figueroa having the necessary Premier League experience to keep them in the league this year. Goalkeepers in McGregor and Harper will also be very useful in their first season back in the top flight.
Similarly to the other two promoted clubs, Hull have managed to keep hold of many of their top players from their promotion winning season. Players like Sone Aluko and Robbie Brady will have been wanted by several other clubs, and Hull will do well to hold onto them until the end of the window. This, coupled with the incomings, leave Hull with a promising squad for survival at the end of May 2014.
Pre-Season:
Hull's pre-season was dominated by the news that, due to the commercial benefits, the club's name would be changed, from the traditional Hull City AFC, to the more commerically attractive Hull City Tigers. This has been met by mixed reviews from the Hull City fans, and football fans in general. My personal opinion is that this can only be a negative move for football. I dislike the changing of the majority of stadium names (having lived in Newcastle I am well aware of the anger a name change can make-Sports Direct Arena!), and I think that changing the name of the club is an even worse step. Even more annoying, rather than just changing the ending from 'City' to another generic name like 'United', they have added the club's nickname 'Tigers' to the end. In my opinion, this makes Hull City sound more like an MLS team, where ridiculous names like San Jose Earthquakes and Montreal Impact are commonplace. I would hate to see a Premier League with names like 'Manchester Volcanoes' or the 'Chelsea Rhinos'. Whilst Hull's suffix at least has some relevance to the club, other foreign owners may not be so considerate of the traditions of the club.
In terms of their matches, Hull started their preparations for their first season in the Premier League for 3 years with a couple of matches against Championship opposition. Matches that the newly promoted Premier League side would have expected to win. However, they left those matches without a victory. Beginning with a boring 0-0 draw against Sheffield Wednesday, they moved onto Birmingham, where they lost a tight game 2-1. After these disappointments, they moved back to their home ground, with a final match against Real Betis. There they produced a much more promising performance, with goals from Danny Graham and Sone Aluko before the break. George Boyd topped the match off with a third, as Hull won 3-0. This is the perfect platform for the start of the Premier League season, as the Tigers will want to carry their form into the league.
Key Players:
The first player that I believe will be able to make the transition from the Championship to the Premier League is George Boyd. The ex-Peterborough man only recently made the step up from relegation battle to promotion push, and I feel he will take the next step in his stride. Scoring on a regular basis, the Englishman quickly became an integral part of the Hull City setup, and he will continue to do so in the Premier League.
Secondly, I think that Allan McGregor will play a crucial role in any success Hull has. A goalkeeper of proven ability and continental experience, McGregor will relish the opportunity to get back to the highest level of football, after a couple of years in the wildnerness in the Scottish lower leagues. He will also be critical in terms of defensive organisation and will aid in the keeping any clean sheets and victories the promoted side gets.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Hull vs Norwich
14/09/2013: Hull vs Cardiff
23/11/2013: Hull vs Crystal Palace
14/12/2013: Hull vs Stoke
18/01/2014: Norwich vs Hull
28/01/2014: Crystal Palace vs Hull
22/02/2014: Cardiff vs Hull
29/03/2014: Stoke vs Hull
Top Goalscorer:
After a season of anonymity since his break-through onto the Premier League scene, I strongly suspect that Danny Graham will find form again at Hull. At Swansea, he had proven that he had the ability to find the net on multiple occasions, and I expect him to recover that when given regular football. In his second season in the Premier League, neither Swansea, nor Sunderland provided the right fit for the English striker. Hull, I believe, will provide the right type of football for Graham to thrive.
Prediction:
Of all of the promoted teams, I fancy Hull to be the one to beat the drop. There is always one side that performs better than expected, and I fully expected this year to be Hull's year. If we remember the last time that Hull were promoted, they had a superb start only to fall to within points of relegation by the end of the season. I suspect that the same may be the case this time, but I am certain that most Hull fans would take that now if it were offered! Their experience and key members of the team mean that I believe that Hull are the best equipped of the three, and I think that there are three teams that are worse than the Tigers.
Hull City 2013/2014: 15th
Transfer(s) In: Yannick Sagbo (Evian, Undisc), Danny Graham (Sunderland, Loan), Steve Harper (Newcastle, Free), Allan McGregor (Rangers, £2 Million), Curtis Davies (Birmingham, £2 Million), George Boyd (Peterborough, Free), Maynor Figueroa (Wigan Athletic, Free), Ahmed Elmohamedy (Sunderland, £2 Million), Calaum Jahraldo-Martin (Dulwich, Free), Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham, £5 Million), Jake Livermore (Tottenham, Loan), Mohamed Nagy (Al-Ahly, Loan), Medo (Al-Ahly, Loan)
Transfer(s) Out: Corry Evans (Blackburn Rovers, Undisc), Andy Dawson (Scunthorpe United, Free), Seyi Olofinjana (Sheffield Wednesday, Loan)
Transfers Review:
As you can see from the lists above, Hull's incomings this campaign far outstrip their sales this summer. This clearly implies their intentions and their spending power, with their Egyptian owners clearly happy to splash the cash. In Yannick Sagbo and Danny Graham they have two strikers highly capable of scoring goals in the Premier League. The Tigers have also improved their defence, with Curtis Davies and Maynor Figueroa having the necessary Premier League experience to keep them in the league this year. Goalkeepers in McGregor and Harper will also be very useful in their first season back in the top flight.
Similarly to the other two promoted clubs, Hull have managed to keep hold of many of their top players from their promotion winning season. Players like Sone Aluko and Robbie Brady will have been wanted by several other clubs, and Hull will do well to hold onto them until the end of the window. This, coupled with the incomings, leave Hull with a promising squad for survival at the end of May 2014.
Pre-Season:
Hull's pre-season was dominated by the news that, due to the commercial benefits, the club's name would be changed, from the traditional Hull City AFC, to the more commerically attractive Hull City Tigers. This has been met by mixed reviews from the Hull City fans, and football fans in general. My personal opinion is that this can only be a negative move for football. I dislike the changing of the majority of stadium names (having lived in Newcastle I am well aware of the anger a name change can make-Sports Direct Arena!), and I think that changing the name of the club is an even worse step. Even more annoying, rather than just changing the ending from 'City' to another generic name like 'United', they have added the club's nickname 'Tigers' to the end. In my opinion, this makes Hull City sound more like an MLS team, where ridiculous names like San Jose Earthquakes and Montreal Impact are commonplace. I would hate to see a Premier League with names like 'Manchester Volcanoes' or the 'Chelsea Rhinos'. Whilst Hull's suffix at least has some relevance to the club, other foreign owners may not be so considerate of the traditions of the club.
In terms of their matches, Hull started their preparations for their first season in the Premier League for 3 years with a couple of matches against Championship opposition. Matches that the newly promoted Premier League side would have expected to win. However, they left those matches without a victory. Beginning with a boring 0-0 draw against Sheffield Wednesday, they moved onto Birmingham, where they lost a tight game 2-1. After these disappointments, they moved back to their home ground, with a final match against Real Betis. There they produced a much more promising performance, with goals from Danny Graham and Sone Aluko before the break. George Boyd topped the match off with a third, as Hull won 3-0. This is the perfect platform for the start of the Premier League season, as the Tigers will want to carry their form into the league.
Key Players:
The first player that I believe will be able to make the transition from the Championship to the Premier League is George Boyd. The ex-Peterborough man only recently made the step up from relegation battle to promotion push, and I feel he will take the next step in his stride. Scoring on a regular basis, the Englishman quickly became an integral part of the Hull City setup, and he will continue to do so in the Premier League.
Secondly, I think that Allan McGregor will play a crucial role in any success Hull has. A goalkeeper of proven ability and continental experience, McGregor will relish the opportunity to get back to the highest level of football, after a couple of years in the wildnerness in the Scottish lower leagues. He will also be critical in terms of defensive organisation and will aid in the keeping any clean sheets and victories the promoted side gets.
Key Fixture Dates:
24/08/2013: Hull vs Norwich
14/09/2013: Hull vs Cardiff
23/11/2013: Hull vs Crystal Palace
14/12/2013: Hull vs Stoke
18/01/2014: Norwich vs Hull
28/01/2014: Crystal Palace vs Hull
22/02/2014: Cardiff vs Hull
29/03/2014: Stoke vs Hull
Top Goalscorer:
After a season of anonymity since his break-through onto the Premier League scene, I strongly suspect that Danny Graham will find form again at Hull. At Swansea, he had proven that he had the ability to find the net on multiple occasions, and I expect him to recover that when given regular football. In his second season in the Premier League, neither Swansea, nor Sunderland provided the right fit for the English striker. Hull, I believe, will provide the right type of football for Graham to thrive.
Prediction:
Of all of the promoted teams, I fancy Hull to be the one to beat the drop. There is always one side that performs better than expected, and I fully expected this year to be Hull's year. If we remember the last time that Hull were promoted, they had a superb start only to fall to within points of relegation by the end of the season. I suspect that the same may be the case this time, but I am certain that most Hull fans would take that now if it were offered! Their experience and key members of the team mean that I believe that Hull are the best equipped of the three, and I think that there are three teams that are worse than the Tigers.
Hull City 2013/2014: 15th
Fulham: Another Season of Mid-Table Discontent?
2012/2013: 12th
Transfer(s) In: Adel Taarabt (QPR, Loan), Maarten Stekelenburg (AS Roma, Undisc), Fernando Amorebieta (Athletic Bilbao, Undisc), Ange-Freddy Plumain (RC Lens, Free), Derek Boateng (Dnipro, Free), Sascha Riether (FC Koln, Undisc), Scott Parker (Tottenham, Undisc), Darren Bent (Aston Villa, Loan), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur, £4 Million), Elsad Zverotic (Young Boys Bern, £0.25 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Alex Kacaniklic (Burnley, Loan), Chris Baird, Simon Davies, Mladen Petric, Mark Schwarzer, Mahamadou Diarra (All Released)
Transfers Review:
Fulham's transfers indicate a move forward from the usual 'selling club' status that they are given. With big names leaving almost every season, with the likes of Dempsey and Dembele leaving in recent years, this tended to be the key to why Fulham have remained in vastly the same position in the Premier League over the last few years. This season appears to have broken that pattern, with the key names from the last season, such as Dimitar Berbatov, remaining at Craven Cottage.
They have also added a few top-quality players to the ranks, with the likes of Roma's Maarten Stekelenburg and Bilbao's Fernando Amorebieta their most high profile additions. By adding QPR's enigmatic playmaker to their squad, they have improved both their defence and their midfield, in order to aid the often isolated Berbatov. In Plumain and Riether, they have also invested in the future, so that when others are sold, or retire, they have strength in depth.
If we compare the actual transfers to my predictions at the end of last season, we see that I suggested that a more defensive-minded midfielder may be needed to break up the play and aid the flair players. In Derek Boateng, they have certainly signed someone of that ilk. In truth, Fulham have strengthened almost every area of the squad. This is a very impressive feat when you have only signed half a dozen players. They will be hoping that these signings will propel them to a top half finish, and that maybe they can be the West Brom of 2013/2014.
Pre-Season:
Fulham's pre-season started with a tour of Costa Rica, in which they took part in three exhibition matches. In all, Fulham dominated the match, winning against Cartigines by 3 goals to 0, before beating Alajuelense 3-1, and finishing their tour with a 5-3 victory on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Moving back to the UK, Fulham played two further matches, both against considerably more difficult opposition.
Beginning with Real Betis, Fulham started their run to the start of the Premier League season. After a Steve Sidwell goal in the 13th minute, Betis levelled after 55 minutes, as Igiebor rolled the ball home from close-range. Fulham dominated proceedings, continue to amass chances, and having a penalty claim turned down and a goal disallowed before the end of the game. But the score stayed the same, and despite a positive performance, Fulham were denied a winning return. They finished their pre-season with a game against Parma, and once again, Steve Sidwell opened the scoring after just 10 minutes. But the Cottagers' performance levels dropped as the match wore on, with Amauri only being denied a leveler by the offside flag, and Marco Parolo rattled the crossbar. After the interval, the Italians did not have to wait long before equalising, with Gabriel Palletta heading home just before the hour mark. As the game dragged on, the Serie A team bcame the more likely to score, until eventually, Fulham hearts were broken. Nicola Sansone latched onto a knock-down to fire home the winner four minutes from time, to end Fulham's pre-season in the worst possible manner.
Key Players:
With Mark Schwarzer leaving the Cottage for the Bridge this summer, a goalkeeper was needed. Here, Martin Jol pulled off a master-stroke, bringing in Holland international Maarten Stekelenburg. The Dutchman has proven his worth in just the pre-season friendlies, and I feel will be vital to Fulham's push for a top 10 finish. He has excellent reflexes, and has fantastic experience of both continental and international competition, having travelled and performed in a World Cup Final.
In order to succeed, not conceding is only half the battle, with scoring the other half. Dimitar Berbatov will continue to be an integral part of Fulham's team, and his goals will propel them up the table. He can at times seem disinterested and petulant, but every now and then he has moments of genius, that can often be the winner of valuable points.
Key Fixture Dates:
17/08/2013: Sunderland vs Fulham
31/08/2013: Newcastle vs Fulham
21/09/2013: Chelsea vs Fulham
26/10/2013: Southampton vs Fulham
30/11/2013: West Ham United vs Fulham
07/12/2013: Fulham vs Aston Villa
01/01/2014: Fulham vs West Ham United
11/01/2014: Fulham vs Sunderland
01/02/2014: Fulham vs Southampton
01/03/2014: Fulham vs Chelsea
15/03/2014: Fulham vs Newcastle
05/04/2014: Aston Villa vs Fulham
Top Goalscorer:
Just like last season, I see Dimitar Berbatov leading the line for the Cottagers. If he goes through one of his lean periods, Darren Bent will chip in, but I fear for Fulham's success, as they have very little in the way of alternatives. Whilst I cannot see him being up with the top scorers in the league, I certainly see him retaining his Fulham top goalscorer tag this campaign.
Prediction:
Fulham's team certainly now has the names to challenge for a top 10 finish, but it is the strength in depth that worries me about them. As much as I would like to see them get back to their former glories (the Europa League final a few years ago), I think that this will be a year of transition, and building the squad. Any injury to Dimitar Berbatov practically stops their goal threat, and I think that it is this that will consign them to another season in mid-table. If they manage to add further strength in January or next summer, then I feel they can compete higher up.
Fulham 2013/2014: 14th
Transfer(s) In: Adel Taarabt (QPR, Loan), Maarten Stekelenburg (AS Roma, Undisc), Fernando Amorebieta (Athletic Bilbao, Undisc), Ange-Freddy Plumain (RC Lens, Free), Derek Boateng (Dnipro, Free), Sascha Riether (FC Koln, Undisc), Scott Parker (Tottenham, Undisc), Darren Bent (Aston Villa, Loan), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur, £4 Million), Elsad Zverotic (Young Boys Bern, £0.25 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Alex Kacaniklic (Burnley, Loan), Chris Baird, Simon Davies, Mladen Petric, Mark Schwarzer, Mahamadou Diarra (All Released)
Transfers Review:
Fulham's transfers indicate a move forward from the usual 'selling club' status that they are given. With big names leaving almost every season, with the likes of Dempsey and Dembele leaving in recent years, this tended to be the key to why Fulham have remained in vastly the same position in the Premier League over the last few years. This season appears to have broken that pattern, with the key names from the last season, such as Dimitar Berbatov, remaining at Craven Cottage.
They have also added a few top-quality players to the ranks, with the likes of Roma's Maarten Stekelenburg and Bilbao's Fernando Amorebieta their most high profile additions. By adding QPR's enigmatic playmaker to their squad, they have improved both their defence and their midfield, in order to aid the often isolated Berbatov. In Plumain and Riether, they have also invested in the future, so that when others are sold, or retire, they have strength in depth.
If we compare the actual transfers to my predictions at the end of last season, we see that I suggested that a more defensive-minded midfielder may be needed to break up the play and aid the flair players. In Derek Boateng, they have certainly signed someone of that ilk. In truth, Fulham have strengthened almost every area of the squad. This is a very impressive feat when you have only signed half a dozen players. They will be hoping that these signings will propel them to a top half finish, and that maybe they can be the West Brom of 2013/2014.
Pre-Season:
Fulham's pre-season started with a tour of Costa Rica, in which they took part in three exhibition matches. In all, Fulham dominated the match, winning against Cartigines by 3 goals to 0, before beating Alajuelense 3-1, and finishing their tour with a 5-3 victory on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Moving back to the UK, Fulham played two further matches, both against considerably more difficult opposition.
Beginning with Real Betis, Fulham started their run to the start of the Premier League season. After a Steve Sidwell goal in the 13th minute, Betis levelled after 55 minutes, as Igiebor rolled the ball home from close-range. Fulham dominated proceedings, continue to amass chances, and having a penalty claim turned down and a goal disallowed before the end of the game. But the score stayed the same, and despite a positive performance, Fulham were denied a winning return. They finished their pre-season with a game against Parma, and once again, Steve Sidwell opened the scoring after just 10 minutes. But the Cottagers' performance levels dropped as the match wore on, with Amauri only being denied a leveler by the offside flag, and Marco Parolo rattled the crossbar. After the interval, the Italians did not have to wait long before equalising, with Gabriel Palletta heading home just before the hour mark. As the game dragged on, the Serie A team bcame the more likely to score, until eventually, Fulham hearts were broken. Nicola Sansone latched onto a knock-down to fire home the winner four minutes from time, to end Fulham's pre-season in the worst possible manner.
Key Players:
With Mark Schwarzer leaving the Cottage for the Bridge this summer, a goalkeeper was needed. Here, Martin Jol pulled off a master-stroke, bringing in Holland international Maarten Stekelenburg. The Dutchman has proven his worth in just the pre-season friendlies, and I feel will be vital to Fulham's push for a top 10 finish. He has excellent reflexes, and has fantastic experience of both continental and international competition, having travelled and performed in a World Cup Final.
In order to succeed, not conceding is only half the battle, with scoring the other half. Dimitar Berbatov will continue to be an integral part of Fulham's team, and his goals will propel them up the table. He can at times seem disinterested and petulant, but every now and then he has moments of genius, that can often be the winner of valuable points.
Key Fixture Dates:
17/08/2013: Sunderland vs Fulham
31/08/2013: Newcastle vs Fulham
21/09/2013: Chelsea vs Fulham
26/10/2013: Southampton vs Fulham
30/11/2013: West Ham United vs Fulham
07/12/2013: Fulham vs Aston Villa
01/01/2014: Fulham vs West Ham United
11/01/2014: Fulham vs Sunderland
01/02/2014: Fulham vs Southampton
01/03/2014: Fulham vs Chelsea
15/03/2014: Fulham vs Newcastle
05/04/2014: Aston Villa vs Fulham
Top Goalscorer:
Just like last season, I see Dimitar Berbatov leading the line for the Cottagers. If he goes through one of his lean periods, Darren Bent will chip in, but I fear for Fulham's success, as they have very little in the way of alternatives. Whilst I cannot see him being up with the top scorers in the league, I certainly see him retaining his Fulham top goalscorer tag this campaign.
Prediction:
Fulham's team certainly now has the names to challenge for a top 10 finish, but it is the strength in depth that worries me about them. As much as I would like to see them get back to their former glories (the Europa League final a few years ago), I think that this will be a year of transition, and building the squad. Any injury to Dimitar Berbatov practically stops their goal threat, and I think that it is this that will consign them to another season in mid-table. If they manage to add further strength in January or next summer, then I feel they can compete higher up.
Fulham 2013/2014: 14th
Everton: Will The New Era Take Its Toll?
2012/2013: 6th
Transfer(s) In: Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic, Free), Joel Robles (Atletico Madrid, Undisc), Arouna Kone (Wigan Athletic, Undisc), Gerard Deulofeu (Barcelona, Loan), Roberto Martinez (Wigan Athletic, Undisc), Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea, Loan), Gareth Barry (Manchester City, Loan), James McCarthy (Wigan Athletic, £12 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Thomas Hitzlsperger, Jan Mucha (Both Released), Phil Neville (Retired), David Moyes (Manchester United, Undisc), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United, £27.5 Million)
Transfers Review:
Undoubtedly, the most important transfers that have occurred at Everton this season involve the managerial position rather than any on-field place. After over a decade of loyal support, David Moyes decided that the Manchester United job was too good to refuse. After his repeated heroics with Wigan, firstly keeping them up season after season, and culminating in their FA Cup triumph in May. These credentials attracted the attention of Bill Kenwright, who managed to settle a fee with Dave Whelan to bring the talented Spaniard to Goodison.
Most of the signings that Roberto Martinez has made have, at one time or another, represented Wigan during his time in charge. Alcaraz will add to the already strong defence, with Distin and Heitinga highly competant defenders. Joel Robles, who played that FA Cup final a couple of months ago, having been on loan from Atletico, will also provide adequate cover for Tim Howard. Arouna Kone is a proven goalscorer in the Premier League, having made double figures in a relegated team last season, and will provide many valuable goals in attack. James McCarthy, though an expensive signing, will provide further steel and creativity in the centre of midfield. Both Barry and Lukaku are good loan signings, and will provide short-term gains, but I feel that longer term solutions will be required. Deulofeu is a promising youngster from Barcelona, and I feel will be used sparingly throughout the season to give him the experience. However, whilst these signings are good, the majority of them have come from a side that have were relegated last season, so one must wonder just how much they will add to a top half team. In comparison to my prediction from my Everton season review post, Callum McManaman is about the only member of that Wigan side that looks promising not to be snapped up by the ex-Wigan manager. And typically, he is the one I predicted would go!
What the Toffees have managed to do is keep their hands on the majority of their star names. Though Marouane Fellaini did make the journey over to join his old manager, Leighton Baines remaining at Everton is a major boost to their success. With old manager Moyes and Manchester United seemingly desperate to secure their signatures, throughout the window it was a real battle to keep hold of Baines until September 3rd. The call from their old manager seemed to be too much to resist for the big Belgian, though Martinez will be pleased to have got £27.5 Million, a full 4 more than the old release clause.
Pre-Season:
Everton began their pre-season preparations on home soil, with games against lower-league opposition. A good opportunity to try and find some new youth prospects, and a chance to bed some of the new signings into the squad earlier. Two wins, against Accrington and Blackburn followed, before we moved into August, where the competition got considerably more impressive. In the International Champions Cup, Everton faced Juventus in San Francisco in their opening game. After 90 minutes, a Kwadjo Asamoah strike levelled Kevin Mirallas's effort on the hour mark, and the game went into penalties. After 13 successful spot kicks, the game was settled in Everton's favour after Peluso's kick was saved by Howard. This left the Liverpudlian side with a tie against Real Madrid in LA. After Ronaldo scored the opener, he created a second for Mesut Ozil before the break. Nikica Jelavic grabbed a consolation for the Toffees, but Madrid hung on to eliminate Everton. Considering the opposition, Everton will be heartened by their performance.
Their final two games took place back on home soil, with the visit of two Spanish sides. Firstly, they entertained Valencia, where they suffered a chastening 1-0 reverse. This readied them for their final game of the pre-season warm up against Real Betis, where they performed much better, securing a promising 2-1 win. These games suggest that they have the personnel, and the ability, to secure a positive performance in the Premier League, however, there are aspects to Everton's form that may cause them trouble during the campaign.
Key Players:
I think that this will prove to be a massive season for Kevin Mirallas. The winger had a good initial season at Goodison Park, scoring a couple of memorable goals, and I think that he may have to take a more central role this time around. With Steven Naismith and Nikica Jelavic both out of form, this is when the Belgian will have to stand up and be counted.
Seamus Coleman could also be forced into a key player role this year. The young Irishman seems in that Baines-esque mould, and will often be seen bombing down either side. More commonly known as a right-back, he may have to transfer to the opposite side, and take the role of instigator of many attacks.
Key Fixture Dates:
03/11/2013: Everton vs Tottenham
23/11/2013: Everton vs Liverpool
03/12/2013: Manchester United vs Everton
07/12/2013: Arsenal vs Everton
28/01/2014: Liverpool vs Everton
08/02/2014: Tottenham vs Everton
05/04/2014: Everton vs Arsenal
19/04/2014: Everton vs Manchester United
Top Goalscorer:
If Kevin Mirallas takes to his more central role quickly, I feel he may well have a claim for this position. However, with the ability and pace that Arouna Kone has, coupled with the clinical finishing which led him to the top goalscorer for Wigan last time around, I feel that he may well pip the Belgian to the post. Since Roberto Martinez can get the best out of the Ivorian, it would be silly to assume that that partnership would stop working at Goodison Park.
Prediction:
I think that Roberto Martinez will do well at Everton, but he, like every other new manager in the field, will take time to adjust to his new role. His teams' mentalities of not playing until the clocks go forward will not do at a side like Everton. He can ill-afford the kind of start that Wigan were so accustomed to, as he has not only the European places to consider, but their standing within their own city. As things stand, unfortunately for the Toffees, the re-adjustment period will be too long to secure either of their objectives, and they will finish away from the European places and behind Liverpool. But they will be building for the future, especially if Martinez is given the amount of time that Moyes was.
Everton 2013/2014: 7th
Transfer(s) In: Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic, Free), Joel Robles (Atletico Madrid, Undisc), Arouna Kone (Wigan Athletic, Undisc), Gerard Deulofeu (Barcelona, Loan), Roberto Martinez (Wigan Athletic, Undisc), Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea, Loan), Gareth Barry (Manchester City, Loan), James McCarthy (Wigan Athletic, £12 Million)
Transfer(s) Out: Thomas Hitzlsperger, Jan Mucha (Both Released), Phil Neville (Retired), David Moyes (Manchester United, Undisc), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United, £27.5 Million)
Transfers Review:
Undoubtedly, the most important transfers that have occurred at Everton this season involve the managerial position rather than any on-field place. After over a decade of loyal support, David Moyes decided that the Manchester United job was too good to refuse. After his repeated heroics with Wigan, firstly keeping them up season after season, and culminating in their FA Cup triumph in May. These credentials attracted the attention of Bill Kenwright, who managed to settle a fee with Dave Whelan to bring the talented Spaniard to Goodison.
Most of the signings that Roberto Martinez has made have, at one time or another, represented Wigan during his time in charge. Alcaraz will add to the already strong defence, with Distin and Heitinga highly competant defenders. Joel Robles, who played that FA Cup final a couple of months ago, having been on loan from Atletico, will also provide adequate cover for Tim Howard. Arouna Kone is a proven goalscorer in the Premier League, having made double figures in a relegated team last season, and will provide many valuable goals in attack. James McCarthy, though an expensive signing, will provide further steel and creativity in the centre of midfield. Both Barry and Lukaku are good loan signings, and will provide short-term gains, but I feel that longer term solutions will be required. Deulofeu is a promising youngster from Barcelona, and I feel will be used sparingly throughout the season to give him the experience. However, whilst these signings are good, the majority of them have come from a side that have were relegated last season, so one must wonder just how much they will add to a top half team. In comparison to my prediction from my Everton season review post, Callum McManaman is about the only member of that Wigan side that looks promising not to be snapped up by the ex-Wigan manager. And typically, he is the one I predicted would go!
What the Toffees have managed to do is keep their hands on the majority of their star names. Though Marouane Fellaini did make the journey over to join his old manager, Leighton Baines remaining at Everton is a major boost to their success. With old manager Moyes and Manchester United seemingly desperate to secure their signatures, throughout the window it was a real battle to keep hold of Baines until September 3rd. The call from their old manager seemed to be too much to resist for the big Belgian, though Martinez will be pleased to have got £27.5 Million, a full 4 more than the old release clause.
Pre-Season:
Everton began their pre-season preparations on home soil, with games against lower-league opposition. A good opportunity to try and find some new youth prospects, and a chance to bed some of the new signings into the squad earlier. Two wins, against Accrington and Blackburn followed, before we moved into August, where the competition got considerably more impressive. In the International Champions Cup, Everton faced Juventus in San Francisco in their opening game. After 90 minutes, a Kwadjo Asamoah strike levelled Kevin Mirallas's effort on the hour mark, and the game went into penalties. After 13 successful spot kicks, the game was settled in Everton's favour after Peluso's kick was saved by Howard. This left the Liverpudlian side with a tie against Real Madrid in LA. After Ronaldo scored the opener, he created a second for Mesut Ozil before the break. Nikica Jelavic grabbed a consolation for the Toffees, but Madrid hung on to eliminate Everton. Considering the opposition, Everton will be heartened by their performance.
Their final two games took place back on home soil, with the visit of two Spanish sides. Firstly, they entertained Valencia, where they suffered a chastening 1-0 reverse. This readied them for their final game of the pre-season warm up against Real Betis, where they performed much better, securing a promising 2-1 win. These games suggest that they have the personnel, and the ability, to secure a positive performance in the Premier League, however, there are aspects to Everton's form that may cause them trouble during the campaign.
Key Players:
I think that this will prove to be a massive season for Kevin Mirallas. The winger had a good initial season at Goodison Park, scoring a couple of memorable goals, and I think that he may have to take a more central role this time around. With Steven Naismith and Nikica Jelavic both out of form, this is when the Belgian will have to stand up and be counted.
Seamus Coleman could also be forced into a key player role this year. The young Irishman seems in that Baines-esque mould, and will often be seen bombing down either side. More commonly known as a right-back, he may have to transfer to the opposite side, and take the role of instigator of many attacks.
Key Fixture Dates:
03/11/2013: Everton vs Tottenham
23/11/2013: Everton vs Liverpool
03/12/2013: Manchester United vs Everton
07/12/2013: Arsenal vs Everton
28/01/2014: Liverpool vs Everton
08/02/2014: Tottenham vs Everton
05/04/2014: Everton vs Arsenal
19/04/2014: Everton vs Manchester United
Top Goalscorer:
If Kevin Mirallas takes to his more central role quickly, I feel he may well have a claim for this position. However, with the ability and pace that Arouna Kone has, coupled with the clinical finishing which led him to the top goalscorer for Wigan last time around, I feel that he may well pip the Belgian to the post. Since Roberto Martinez can get the best out of the Ivorian, it would be silly to assume that that partnership would stop working at Goodison Park.
Prediction:
I think that Roberto Martinez will do well at Everton, but he, like every other new manager in the field, will take time to adjust to his new role. His teams' mentalities of not playing until the clocks go forward will not do at a side like Everton. He can ill-afford the kind of start that Wigan were so accustomed to, as he has not only the European places to consider, but their standing within their own city. As things stand, unfortunately for the Toffees, the re-adjustment period will be too long to secure either of their objectives, and they will finish away from the European places and behind Liverpool. But they will be building for the future, especially if Martinez is given the amount of time that Moyes was.
Everton 2013/2014: 7th
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