Welcome back EPL…..we’ve missed you!

So, we’re three games old (for most teams) and I thought it may be time to take a look at the first couple of weeks of the new season and see if I have learned anything new…

The 2008/09 top two look weaker…

OK, so this is a given really but it as it stands Man Utd and Liverpool look a little light on match winners and both have notably weaker squads than at this time last year (I know, United just slotted 5 past Wigan but that ain’t fooling me!). For United, the loss of Ronaldo really cannot be underestimated, love him or loathe him he was the great perma-tanned destroyer of the Premier League’s lesser lights and as good a player as Valencia is, he is no Ronaldo replacement. Arguably, only Lionel Messi could be. Whilst nowhere near as influential, the impact of Xabi Alonso’s departure for Liverpool is huge. His metronomic ability to keep Liverpool ticking has been critical to their pressing style of play in recent seasons. Whilst I believe Lucas is a better player than most give him credit, I believe central midfield has gone from Liverpool’s great strength to an area that opposition teams will look to exploit.

Man City have settled quickly!

So far so good at Eastlands. Early signs (and results) suggest their strategy of purchasing established Premier League players is of sound judgement and with competition for places all over the park; it will be interesting to see how far Mark Hughes can take his players this season. Let’s not forget that the transfer window is still open and Hughes has hinted that more troops may be added before August is out. Whilst I still doubt that they will crack the Top 4 cartel, I am reminded of one crucial factor – no European distractions. Whilst Arsenal, United etc embark on their Champions League crusades, the Citizens will be resting up ready for their next Premier League encounter – this could be crucial at the business end of the season.

The ‘newbies’ look capable!

I’m sure Burnley fans would have looked at the fixture lists when they were released in July and decided the Premier League was conspiring to send them straight back down! Four of their first five games against Man Utd, Everton, Liverpool and Chelsea would have left even the most optimistic Burnley fan hoping for 4 points maximum. As it stands, Burnley have 6 points after 3 games, including a famous victory against United which will surely pass into Premier League folklore. However, its not just Burnley who are doing the business, Birmingham have a respectable 4 points (and could have so easily nicked a point at Old Trafford on the opening day) and whilst not quite as impressive; Wolves have got a win on the board and are looking comfortable on the biggest domestic stage of all. This can only bode well for the league as we look to see the gap shortened between the top 4 and the rest…

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