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[V] V West Ham – The Hammers won praise from many last season for giving the youth a chance at Upton Park – and they only just fell short of a Europa League spot. This season may prove tougher for them with others spending the required funds to progress. Zola is not blessed with a big squad but with the kind of football they play, the goal will never be far away. Robert Green will be out to claim England’s No.1 jersey and I expect him to do so, an added boost for West Ham. Plus Points: Their style of play is sure to win them plaudits and points, they have potential that’s for sure. Doubts: You’ll get nowhere with kids they say. Not entirely true but will they get far enough?
Wolves – The pack are back in town and out to avoid a second straight drop back down to the Championship. I’m excited by their first day fixture and I expect to see goals. Mick McCarthy has always tried to play football the correct way and he’ll be hoping that Ebanks-Blake can make the step up. Kevin Doyle will relish another go at the big time as well. They have a real chance of staying up. Plus Points: Natural goalscorer in their side as well as good, technical footballers. Doubts: May struggle defensively.
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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.