I see that some brave places have predicted the final league positions for each team.
BBC chief football writer Phil McNulty's guess and reasonings can be found here.
I believe such guesses to be a folly designed to fill space. Although I like that Phil offers a reason for each of his guesses. I think they are a folly because pre-season games are no real guide, and transfers can still happen which may fundamentally change a team's structure.
That being said, I'm in favor of suggesting a range of positions.
So, let's go, using the zero games played, alphabetically listed, EPL table:
Team Anticipated League Range
AFC Bournemouth 13-19
A brand new manager, a new signing out for 2 months, and 3 tough opening games could provide a poor launchpad for a team who is in their second year back in the EPL.
Arsenal 1-6
After fading last year, and victory against ManCity in the Charity Shield, Arteta will hope super-signing rice settles quickly. But Europe could be a distraction.
Aston Villa 3-8
Emry was wonderful with the squad. The additions look solid. But European adventures could get in the way. Still, I don't see my team fearing relegation this season.
Brentford 7-14
Thomas Frank is the third longest standing manager in the league, and this is Brentford's third season in the EPL. I'd love to think they could finish third, but see them being solidly mid-table. Though that could be difficult with key striker Tovey being out until January.
Brighton and Hove Albion 8-15
A strong sixth position finish leaves Albion with a new challenge this season, European Football. As with Arsenal and Villa this could be distracting, especially with a smaller squad.
Burnley 14-18
After 6 seasoons in the EPL Burnley dropped down, but have bounced straight back-up. An season opening match agains the EPL, FA, & Eureopean champions is as tough as it gets. Still, there is a level of muscle memory available to the team which should stand them in good stead. But the risk of a return to the Championship has to be there.
Chelsea 3-8
I think Chelsea will be nearer the top of the range I've given, with Pocchetino having shown a steady hand in EPL management. Still, there's a lot of change int he squad and how the seasons progresses will depend largely on how they gel together.
Crystal Palace 12-19
Palace changed manager just ahead of a key stretch of 'easy' games last season. At 75 Roy Hodgson is the oldest manager in the league, and this time won't have Wilfred Zaha to rely on. This team may be in the running for an early change of manager.
Everton 14-19
Sean Dyche came in and made Everton the best of the worst teams, in that they survived. There is a feeling of watching Villa of eight or nine years ago. Everton have a swish new stadium coming online for next season, it may be the prettiest in the Championship.
Fulham 8-14
A good season faded somewhat last time out, but Marco Silva should have the werewithall to keep the London team safely out of danger, even if they don't really push towards prizes - even in the form of European slots.
Liverpool 1-6
After a season which looked like exhaustion, Liverpool will hope to challenge again. Yet, with so many big players leaving for Saudi, and a key target preferring Chelsea despite clubs arranging terms, it would be no surprise for LFC to again finish outside the top four. On the other hand, they could very well push for glory. I think the end of the transfer window will give us a clearer idea.
Luton 14-19
The last time Luton were in the top division the winners were Leeds, who slid past the rising Hatters this time round. It's been a gradual return from grim depths for the team and 17th would be accepted right now. I anticipate a tough season ahead.
Manchester City 1-2
As I write this City are already two goals up in their opening game of the season. The first took 4 minutes. While some big players have opted for Saudi money City have a depth of squad which will see them in one of the top two spots. Haaland and Foden will be the stars of the season.
Manchester United 1-5
Can United really win the league for the first time since SAF departed? Probably not. Though ten Hag produced a level of surety which has been missing for several seasons. Impolite commentators will point to Mcguire's leaving being a net benefit.
Newcastle United 4-9
Giving the lie to Europe's premier competition being called the Champion's League 4th placed Newcastle are nearing a hundred years since winning England's top league. I don't see that changing this season. Here's another team who could face distraction from being in European competition. Still, Saudi money should produce results going forward.
Nottingham Forest 12-18
Another team which could easilty be mid table, but also fighting for survival. I expect grit and a managerial replacement from Forest
Sheffield United 15-19
Paul Heckingbottom was the blades manager last time they were relegated from the EPL. Bringing them back up was a good job. With a thin and depleted squad he is unlikely to be the manager should the be relegated as I anticipate.
Tottenham Hotspur 6-10
A new manager, and Kane away to Germany just as the season commences does not bode well. Their should be quality enough remaining for a top half finish, but little else.
West Ham United. 8-14
David Moyes may have led the team to European glory, but may well have been sensible to move on himself. Two new signings have not used all the money from selling Harry Rice, but how much the squad has been strengthened is arguable. This could be a tough season for a cup holding team. A new manager may well be in place come season's end.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 17-20
A new manager joining the week the season starts, after a scramble to survive last year, and the departure of several players all point to a difficult season for Wolves. They are the only team I have finishing 20th. Every team starts with a chance of staying up, but if they end above 17th it will have been a disaster for other teams.
And that is all 20 teams.
What are your predictions? How much do you disagree with mine?
words by stuartcturnbull, picture from smirnoff-nw via pixabay
