I’ve been looking forward to this weekend for a long time. Don’t get me wrong, I have loved the 17 day Olympic-fest, but the Premier League promises to be an absolute belter. There’s no doubt that Manchester dominated 2011/12, but Roman Abramovich’s decision to re-open the cheque book shows Chelsea mean business.
Tottenham’s trip to St James’ Park for the late kick off looks the pick of the bunch tomorrow. Newcastle were superb last season and I don’t think their effort was just a flash in the pan. Alan Pardew made a bold move for old boy Andy Carroll, but the key is that they kept hold of the players that served them so well.
Unlike the Magpies, Spurs are looking pretty threadbare up top with Jermain Defoe the only recognised striker on the books. Harry Kane is unproven at this level and it’s an awful lot to ask a youngster to lead the line. St James’ Park was a fortress and I expect it to be rocking tomorrow where the fans will see the side pick up where they left off.
The champions begin their title defense on Sunday as Southampton make the long trip up from the South Coast. Swansea were in the same position on the opening day this time last year and it ended in a 4-0 loss – a similar result is expected.
Even though Roberto Mancini has made a few grumblings that he’s not had the same financial clout this season, their squad is unrivalled. In the Community Shield they fielded an attacking line-up, which was still without David Silva and Mario Balotelli.
The Saints better start praying for a result as I’m more than happy to give the visitors a two goal start and still get with City.
Manchester United have a very tough game at Goodison on Monday night and they’ll have the added pressure of knowing what their city rivals will have done the day before. Goodison Park is difficult to play at when you’re half way through the season, let alone first up. Robin van Persie’s signature signals United’s intent and I hope he starts at Goodison, while Shinji Kagawa looks a decent addition.
David Moyes for a change has a very strong squad with the likes of Marouane Fellaini, Nikica Jelavic and Steven Pienaar all signed up. There’s been some cracking draws between the clubs over the past couple of seasons and although I don’t see a high scoring contest, the draw looks the best shout.
Betting on BETDAQ – Alan’s Punts:
Newcastle v Tottenham: Back Newcastle at 2.7
Man City v Southampton: Back Man City with -1.5 Asian handicap at 1.89
Everton v Man United: Back the draw at 3.8
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