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[V] V Birmingham – Back at the first time of asking, Alex McLeish’s side have strengthened significantly for their third spell in the top flight. Scott Dann signed from Coventry and McLeish should know a good defender when he sees one. I think they’ll do okay this season but expect to see them in and around the bottom six. They will have their work cut out but well capable of survival. Old Trafford may be a bridge too far for City at the weekend. Plus Points: Have reinforced and will have learnt from past mistakes. McLeish is smart enough to do so. Doubts: Still need a left back and may lack a regular goalscorer.
Man Utd – With the Ronaldo saga put to bed at last, a new number 7 will be hoping to win the hearts of the United fans this season. Owen and Rooney potentially could split the Golden Boot between them this season if they can stay fit as the holders go for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League crown. They begin the season lacking in defensive options but should have too much for the new boys this time around. Other new addition Antonio Valencia has big boots to fill. Will he be a Ronaldo or a Djemba-Djemba? Plus Points: They’re Manchester United. Doubts: Anderson and Carrick were destroyed against Barcelona and I feel the Champions could do with a central midfielder. This may hinder their attempt to retain.
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Chelsea – Having retained Drogba and Terry, The Blues should be fairly comfortable in terms of preparation here and retain pride in the fact that they’re the only one of the top four not to lose a key player. New signings were few and far between but regardless of whether Zhirkov is fit or not, a newly reborn Malouda will more than suffice. I fully expect Chelsea to win this one by at least two goals thus laying foundations for a serious title challenge. Plus points: Strong squad with quality and depth, Terry’s stay should boost fan morale. Doubts: Ancelotti’s willingness to learn from Scolari’s mistakes, Petr Cech’s form.