Adam Saint – Gambling Man!

With just over 5 weeks to go until the Premier League fires up again, I’ve decided to look at the prices for the teams expecting to be battling it out for the title. The obvious choices will be between the “Big Four”, ie. Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal.

Personally, I think we can rule Arsenal out of the equation. I think they are just too far away from being title contenders yet. They are yet again too young and still in huge debt after building a new stadium so I can’t see them going out spending large amounts on getting experienced players in. Maybe in a couple of years they could be classed as real title contenders, but not until they either spend on experience, or until the current crop mature a bit.

Chelsea on the other hand need to lower the age of their squad. If Essien keeps fit he’s a rock in midfield. He’s a class player who can boss midfield, leaving Lampard to push up and get goals. They have enough attacking options. I know Drogba’s a twat but when he’s in the right frame of mind he’s one of the best strikers in the world, and can play up front on his own. Also with Anelka as back up, I don’t see why they would need to strengthen there. Maybe if they could shore up the defence a bit. John Terry is another tosser but you can’t say he’s a bad player. Carvalho seems a bit of a clumsy bastard at times so maybe another strong defender should be added.

Next up, Liverpool. Benitez has been told by the quarrelsome yanks that he will have to sell players to get money to spend. The problem is that I don’t think there are enough fringe players that will be able to warrant big money transfers to bring in quality. For me, Liverpool need to beef up their defensive options, mainly with full backs, and need another experienced striker. However they would need a striker that would be willing to play second fiddle to Torres.

Finally, step up the reigning champions, Man Utd. The loss of Ronaldo and Tevez will be a big blow to them, but the signing of Michael Owen on a free transfer was a shrewd bit of business by Sir Alex. If anyone can reignite his career it will be him. With world class players around him to provide service I can see him getting 15-20 goals, he managed 10 last year with Newcastle. Bringing in Antonio Valencia may not fill the void of Ronaldo, but he’s a more than capable player in the Premiership. A return for Owen Hargreaves from injury will be like a new signing. An ideal player for European games, but in the Premiership he’s proved that he can hold the ball well, and with the exit of Ronaldo, he may be the new set piece specialist.

For me this year it will be between Man Utd and Chelsea. Liverpool pushed United close last year, but they need more depth in the squad. With the lack of funds available, I can’t see that happening. Ancelotti taking over at Chelsea will breathe new life into them, and he is also a good motivator. If Essien is fit, they may be able to push United even more than Liverpool did last year. Time will tell!