Manager Mode - Everton F.C. - The Blue Pride of Merseyside

[Everton08]

Everton F.C.

Club Information

Club Name: Everton F.C.

Nickname(s): The Toffee's, The Blue's, The People's Club

Founded: 1878 as St Domingo F.C.

Ground: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England. (Capacity:40,569)

Chairman: Bill Kenwright

Manager: David Moyes

League: Barclays Premier League (England)

2007/2008 season: Finished 5th

Club Honours

League Champions:

1891, 1915, 1928, 1932, 1939, 1963, 1970, 1985, 1987

League Runners Up:

1890, 1895, 1902, 1909, 1912, 1986

(Old) Division 2 Champions:

1931

(Old) Division 2 Runners Up:

1954

FA Cup Winners:

1906, 1933, 1966, 1984, 1995

FA Cup Finalists:

1893, 1897, 1907, 1968, 1985, 1986, 1989

League Cup Finalists:

1977, 1984

European Cup Winners:

1985

FA Charity Shield Winners:

1928, 1933, 1963, 1970, 1984, 1985, 1986 (shared), 1987, 1995

FA Youth Cup Winners:

1965, 1984, 1998

FA Cup Finalists:

1961, 1977, 1983, 2002

Team Kits

Home:

Away:

Third:

2007/2008 Results

Everton:

Barclays Premier League: 5th

FA Cup: Third Round

Carling Cup: Sem Finalists

UEFA Cup: Final 16

Barclays Premier League:

Champions: Manchester United

Runner's Up: Chelsea

Relegated Teams: Birmingham City, Reading, Derby County

Promoted Teams: Hull City, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion

UEFA Champions League:

Champions: Manchester United

Runner's Up: Chelsea

2008/2009 Qualifiers: Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool

UEFA CUP:

Champions: Zenit St Petersburg

Runner's Up: Rangers

2008/2009 Qualifiers: Everton, Portsmouth, Tottenham, Manchester City

Everton Current Squad

Goal Keepers:

1. Carlo Nash
12. Iain Turner
24. Tim Howard
30. John Ruddy

Defenders:

2. Tony Hibbert
3. Leighton Baines
4. Joseph Yobo
5.Jolean Lescott
6. Phil Jagielka
15. Lars Jacobsen
19. Nuno Valente
26. Jack Rodwell
34. John Irving
40. Lee Molyneux
42. Matt Moore

Midfielders:

7. Andy van der Meyde
8. Segundo Castillo
10. Mikel Arteta
17. Tim Cahill
18. Phil Neville
20. Steven Pienaar
21. Leon Osman
25. Marouane Fellaini
32. Dan Gosling
36. John Paul Kissock
38. James Wallace
45. G Krenn
41. Anthony Arnold

Forwards:

9. Louis Saha
14. James Vaughan
22. Aiyegbeni Yakubu
28. Victor Anichebe
27. Luke Jutkiewicz
37. Jose Baxter
35. Kieran Agard
44. Scott Spencer
43. Karl Sheppard

*Players highlighted in Italics have been recently transfered in

Coaching Staff:

Manager: David Moyes

Assistant Manager: Steve Round

First Team Coach: Jimmy Lumsden

Goalkeeping Coach: Chris Woods

Reserve Team Coach: Andy Holden

Coach: Alan Stubbs

Club Doctor: Ian Irving

Head of Sports Medicine: Mick Rathbone

Masseur: Jimmy Comer

Kit Manager: Jimmy Martin

Head Fitness Coach: Dave Billows

Fitness and Conditioning Coach: Kyle Thorne

Player Liason Manager: Bill Ellaby

Team Strategy

Primary Formation: 4 - 2 - 3 - 1

Secondary Formation (s): 4 - 4 - 2, 4 - 5 - 1

Corner Takers: Mikel Arteta, Steven Pienaar

Free Kick Takers: Mikel Arteta, Segundo Castillo

Penalties: Yakubu

Captain: Phil Neville

Transfer Window:

Current Status: Open

Players In:

Louis Saha
Carlo Nash
Lars Jacobsen
Segundo Castillo
Marouane Felliani
Anthony Arnold
Matt Moore

Players Out:

Thomas Gravesen
Lee Carsley
Andy Johnson
Manuel Fernandes
Aiden Downes
Patrick Boyle
Bjarni Vidarsson
Stefan Wessels
Anthony Gardner

Rumoured Players In:

Jimmy Bullard (buy), Victor Obinha (loan), Alan Smith (buy), Wayne Rooney (buy), Vagner Love (loan)

Rumoured Players Out

Leighton Baines (sell), Victor Anichebe (loan), Andy van der Meyde

Team Expectations:

• Finish top 4 in the league
• Reach Semi Finals of League or FA Cup
• Qualify for Europe
• Scout for young blood

[Robalenko]

First poster! What an honour

[Manchester7]

Beautiful Start

[Chelsea11]

ROONEY GOING BACK TO EVERTON!? And it's Obinna not Obinha

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by Robbie8912Play

First poster! What an honour

Thanks mate, really appreciate it

Originally Posted by Manchester7

Beautiful Start

Im glad you like it , hope i can keep entertained.

Originally Posted by Ronaldo7Rooney

ROONEY GOING BACK TO EVERTON!? And it's Obinna not Obinha

Oh my bad, that was a typo. Im not giving away anything yet.

[Chelsea11]

well a fantastic start, really looking foward to more updates

[Robalenko]

If you are really interested in "young blood" I can refer you to my Grade 10 girlfriend. I swear that girl was never happy unless she was gnawing on my neck. Drew blood once or twice, so I think she may be a real vampire

[Chelsea11]

riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight.....that's not weird or anything

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by Robbie8912Play

If you are really interested in "young blood" I can refer you to my Grade 10 girlfriend. I swear that girl was never happy unless she was gnawing on my neck. Drew blood once or twice, so I think she may be a real vampire

Her name wasnt buffy was it :P

[Robalenko]

I called her that, but her real name was Kirsten

[Tubbsy]

good start Evo08, should be a good rread

[Everton08]

Barclays Premier League Season Preview

Arsenal:

"Get ready, we are coming", quoted Arsene Wenger has he warned Sir Alex of his sides desires this season. The Arsenal manager means well but his words have not concerned anyone at Old Trafford, Anfield or even Stamford Bridge. Arsenal have always played entertaining football but lack of leadership and experience has always let them down in the last couple of seasons. The Gunners young side appears to be a work in progress but the lack of silverware at the Emirates is starting to cause quite a concern amongst the fans.

Strengths:

Quality and skill are two words that come to mind when you think of Arsenal. Wenger has gone on record to admit that he never managed a side that consistenly produces qulaity like this one. Scoring goals has never been a problem for the Gunners, especially when they have got Cesc Fabregas in midfield, the Spanyiard had a spectactulor season last year producing a league record of 20 assists. With the likes of Nasri, Van Persie, Adebayor and Eduardo on there books, the Gunners faithful will be confident of pushing the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United for the title.

Weaknesses:

Experience. With so many young up and comers on there books, the lack of leadership is really starting to undermine this side. William Gallas's sulk at St Andrews certianly did not help the situation and proved the Gunners could be in for another frustrating season, unless someone starts to take some responsiblity on the pitch.

Player To Watch:

Robin Van Persie. If the Dutchman can stay off the injured list, he could be the catalyst to a trophy winning season for the Gunners. One his day the Dutch International is capable of giving defenders and goal keepers multiple headache's. His link up play with Fabregas and Adebayor will be vital.

Predicted Finish: 3rd

Aston Villa

A great 2 years for Villians while under the reigns of Martin O'Neill. The Northern Irishmen has restored Villa back to a geniune top 4 threat after finishing 16th in the league in 2005. But the hard offically begins now for the Villians who will hope there good form from last season will continue into this year to give them a hope of securing a UEFA Cup or even Champions League spot.

Strengths:

A constant goal threat are Aston Villa, Martin O'Neill's 4-3-3 formation worked wonders last season and they were rewarded with 71 goals, just behind the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal. The pace of Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor's eye for goal and John Carew's height will again prove the spark for Villa this season.

Weaknesses:

Depth. Villa have one of the most smallest squads in the league, and after qualifying for Europe, Martin O'Neill could find this season a very long one if injuries do occur. Defence could also be a issue for the West Midlands club. They conceded 51 goals last season which was more than double than Manchester United.

Player To Watch:

Ashley Young. The England International has become a vital part of the Villa attack, laying off 17 assists last season. Young is known for his pace but is also very dangerous from set peices and his first time touches.

Predicted Finish: 8th

Blackburn:

The departure of manager Mark Hughesto Manchester City and the inspirational David Bentley to Spurs cast many fears into the hearts of the Rovers faithful during a long summer. But there hopes has since been restored with the arrival of Paul Ince from MK Dons and England International Paul Robinson from Tottenham. After finishing 7th in the league last season there will be big expectations on the incoming manager but with Christopher Samba and Ryan Nelsen forming a solid partnership at the back and Roque Santa Cruz breaking the 20 goal barrier it appears things are looking up for the Rovers.

Strengths:

Mark Hughes may have left Ewood Park but during his time there he was able to successfuly install a never say die attitude within his Rovers. Last season Blackburn recorded a league record 23 points coming back from losing positions. Ince of course with bring his own style to Ewood Park but the spirit of his players is something he certainly maintain.

Weaknessess:

Discipline was a big issue for Rovers last season, they commited more fouls then any other team in the division and with conceding goals from set peices is not a way to advance into Europe. Blackburn's midfield is also becoming a liability with most players starting to come to the back end of the careers. Ince will need to look to the future and quick.

Player To Watch;

Paul Robinson. After a dissapointing year at Tottenham, the former England number 1 has the chance to revive his career at Ewood Park. The Rovers lost the ever reliable Brad Friedel to Aston Villa during the summer and it was Paul Ince who quickly snapped Robinson up from Spurs on a 3 million pound deal. Expect a big year from the Englishmen.

Predicted Finish: 13th

Bolton:

Gary Megson and his men peformed a mircale last season, just finishing above the relegation zone before the last day of the season. After back to back finishes in mid table in the last four seasons, things have started to go pair shaped for the Wanderers and Gary Megson is going to have to find a quick fix solution or they could be in for another frustrating year.

Strengths:

The Back 5. Jussi Jaaskelainen is one the Premier League's most under rated goal keepers. The trotters keeper has recently signed a new deal in the summer and will be hoping to continue his partnership with Gary Cahill and Andy O'Brien at the heart of the Bolton defence. Despite just avoiding the drop, the Trotters conceded less goals then both Newcastle and Tottenham last season.

Weaknesses:

The loss of Nicolas Anelka left a yawning gap in the Bolton attack last season, the Wanderers averaged less than a goal a game last time round and will be further troubled with the loss of El - Hadji Douf to Sunderland. However $10 million pound signing Johan Elmander could have an affect on where they finish of the table this season.

Player to Watch:

Kevin Nolan. The Bolton captain is heart and soul of this team. His ability to play box to box has helped Bolton over the years, expect him to pop up with a few more goals this season

Predicted Finish: 18th








Chelsea:

You would think finishing runner's up in the premiership and in Europe would put a smile on any club owner's face....not Roman Abramovich. The Russian billionaire sacked Avram Grant in the summer and has hired former Portgual manager Luiz Felipe Scolari in hopes of bring some silverwear back to London. The Brazilian has been given one instruction and has show his intentions by making some household changes to his squad.

Strengths:

Depth and Skill. Chelsea have added the likes of Deco, Mineiro and Jose Boswinga to there already glistening pool of talent. Chelsea easily have one of the skillfull squads in the world and the only problem Scolari might have is choosing who will sit out each week.

Weaknesses:

Out of the top four last year, Chelsea finished last in goals scored. Didier Drogba only managed to find the net eight times last season whilst Nicolas Anelka also sturggled to convert his chances. If Chelsea are going to re claim any trophies this season, that partnership is gonna have to improve....vastly.

Player To Watch:

Florent Malouda. Speed, agility, and balance are all words that come to mind when you think of the French Winger. He also possesses a great passing game and is a natural in front of goal. Malouda managed 6 goals from 27 apperences last season and is a stat he is looking to improve on.

Predicted Finish: 1st








Everton:

It has been a stressful summer for David Moyes and his men. Lack of transfer funds, the loss of there CEO and the call in of there Kirkby stadium has caused alot of concerns around Goodison Park but with 2 top 6 finishes in the last 2 years and a good run in the UEFA Cup, Everton could see themselves pushing for a top 4 spot this time around.

Strengths:

Everton accumulated their highest ever points total in the Premier League last season (65) with a organised side, strong in all departments. With Tim Howard in goal, and Jospeh Yobo and Phil Jagielka at the heart of there back four, Everton possess the best defence outside the top 4. There midfield features the flair of Mikel Arteta, the goal threat of Tim Cahill and the industry of Steven Pienaar, while up front, they have their most profilic striker for 15 years in Yakubu.

Weaknesses:

Squad numbers and lack of transfer funds. David Moyes has performed a miracle at Everton, using alot less money than other Premier League manages and still pushing for top 4 spot. With the departures of Lee Carsley, Andy Johnson and Manuel Fernandes, it was vital to Everton's chances they there places be replaced with same or better quality. Moyes has signed four internationals including Louis Saha from Manchester United in hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.

Player To Watch:

Jack Rodwell. Predicted to be given his first team start for Everton this season, the 17 year old defender can already boast about being the youngest ever Toffees player to appear in Europe and the scorer of a winning goal at Wembley for England U17's. Having just signed a new deal, expect to see this talented player slowly but surely given experience throughout the campaign.

Predicted Finish: 4th


Fulham:

After escaping relegation on the last day of the season Roy Hodgson actually expressed his regret that, since his apointment five months earlier, he had been unable to lift Fulham out of the bottom three sooner and turn them into a club competing for a place in the top 6.

Strengths:

While areas of the Fulham side need strengthening, there are enough existing players to offer some hope, especially in midfield, where Danny Murphy, Simon Davies, a fit again Jimmy Bullard and new signing Zoltan Gera can all battle, score and create chances. The arrival of goal keeper Mark Schwarzer is a added bonus for the cottages.

Weaknesses:

The south west Londoners slumped to there lowest points total and lowest league position since winning promotion in 2001, chiefly because of there inability to score goals.

Player To Watch:

Andy Johnson. Has a chance to revamp his career and prove a point to Fabio Capello. The Englishmen struggled at Everton for goals and was playing second fiddle to Yakubu, Johnson has since made the move to London could play a key role to Fulham's future in the Premier League.

Predicted Finish: 17


Hull City:

On the day Hull City were promoted to the top flight of English football for the first time in their 104 - year history, Phil Brown, declared if his chairman backed him no one knows just how far they could go. That investment is crucial. The sad truth is that in the 15 year history of the Premier League there have been 21 instant demotions back into the second teir.

Strengths:

The presence of Phil Brown in the manager's dug out gives Hull some hope. He knows the blueprint for comfortably keeping a modest club in the Premier League as he helped to create it with Sam Allardyce at Bolton.

Weaknesses:

Hull have the look of a mid table Championship side who went on a good run and stumbled into the Premier League.

Player To Watch:

Michael Turner. The 6ft 4in Londoner is expected to be one of the few Premier League virgins to adapt this season. The 24 yeard old central defender played a vital part in getting Hull where they are today.

Predicted Finish: 19th








Liverpool:

Will this finally be the season Liverpool mount a serious challenge for the title? Or will they choke and fall short once again? There is the usual confident talk emanating from Anfield about getting stronger and progress being made, but the truth is while they cut the gap with Manchester United by 10 points last season, they still finished a mammoth 11 points behind them.

Strengths:

If Liverpool can improve their peripheral positions, they could compete the title, as there spine is as good as anyone's. The additions of Keane, Reira and Dossena will come in very handy.

Weaknessess:

Though they claim it has "improved", the feud between Liverpool's co owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett is always liable to flare up and undermine the club.

Player to Watch:

Fernando Torres. 27 goals in 38 apperences. Nuff said.

Predicted Finish: 5th








Manchester City:

Gone from living in United's shadow to being the richest club in the world. Manchester City have never finished in the top six of the Premier League, but this where Mark Hughes and Abu Dhabi united is expected to take them in there first seasons at Eastlands. Big names have been promised for January but will the results follow?

Strengths:

Money. Richest club in the world. Hughes can begin to build from the back with a well stocked defence including Corluka, Dunne and Richards. Martin Petrov and Elano impressed with there flair last season but it will be fellow Brazillians Robinho and Jo who are really expected to the set the Eastlands alive this season.

Weaknesses:

With all this money, it is expected that there will be a big team clear out in the winter, and there are huge question marks over the future of the City youth players.

Player To Watch:

Robinho. Expect big things from the Brazilian this season, it may take the star strike a while to adapt to the pace of the English game but when does..watch out.

Predicted Finish: 6th









Manchester United

When Manchester United won the European Cup for the first time in 1968 it marked the end of an era. After their 1999 success they toiled away without returning to the final. So the aim for the class of 2008 is to become the first United to retain there status as champions in Europe and to hold of Chelsea in the Premier League.

Strengths:

Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez produced a staggering 57 goals in the league last season. At the back, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have now formed an unrivalled partnership flanked on the left by arguably Europe's finest full - back in Patrice Evra.

Weaknesses:

The centre of United's midfield can fail to dominate games as it should; Paul Scholes increasingly shows signs of his advancing years; Michael Carrick, while a wonderful passer, needs impose himself more, and Owen Hargreaves has excelled intermittently but has yet to forfil expectations.

Player To Watch:

Anderson. A Glance at youtube at the start of the last season convinced United fans that Anderson was the new Ronaldinho, but instead he proved to be the new Edgar Davids. a flurry of energy and purpose in midfield.

Predicted Finish: 2nd


Middlesbrough

While Steve Gibson is often lauded as the Premier League's best chairman for his famous patience, exactly what has it earned him? A League Cup and a trip to Eindhoven in the UEFA Cup final two years ago, but in the Premier League Boro remain the epitome of a mid table side, finishing between 11th and 14th eight times in the last nine years.

Strengths:

The sight of four Boro players, Adam Johnson, Lee Cattermole, Andrew Taylor and David Wheater, playing for the England U21s at the end of last season proves there is a significant pool of talent lurking in this side and, if they can progress as last season's leading scorer Stuart Downing has done, they could be the foundation of a promising side.

Weaknesses:

The 8-1 mauling of Manchester City on the last day of the season cant disguise Boro's inadequacy in front of goal. Tuncay showed glimpes of his ability, but managed 8 goals, while Egypt international Mido appears overpriced and overweight. Much depends on how Afonso Alves adapts to the English game.

Player To Watch:

David Wheater. In the last 12 months, the hulking 21 year old has gone from a loan spell at Darlington to a regular in the heart of the Boro defense and a place in the England squad.

Predicted Finish: 10th


Newcastle United

A recent survey found that Newcastle is the unhappiest city in the UK. Maybe they canvassed for opinion exclusively outside St James Park, because after last summer's false dawn there is now little optimism. Owner Mike Ashley is looking for a way out and Kevin Keegan lost all hope when he walked out for the second time, Interim Manager Joe Kineer has taken the reigns and will hope to restore some pride to the black and white's.

Strengths:

There is actually a spine for Kineer to build a new side around. Shay Given has consistently been of the Premier League's best keepers, Steven Taylor has given up the acting and is developing into a fine centre half, Nicky Butt anchors the midfield well and up front Mark Viduka, Michael Owen and Obafemi Martins guarantee goals when fit and firing.

Weaknesses:

The tension between Mike Ashley and Kevin Keegan after only a few months working together, combined with Dennis Wise and several faceless men with brackets after there names working around the manager, could undermine Newcastle's season.

Player To Watch:

Damien Duff. Desperate for an injection of creativity in there midfield, Newcastle fans will hope that Duff can recapture the form that persuaded Chelsea to pay $17 million for his services five years ago.

Predicted Finish: 15th


Portsmouth

Could this season be nothing more than terrible anti - climax for Pompey? After securing their best league placing for 52 years and their first major trophy for 69 years by winning the FA Cup, the fear is that they only way is down is down.

Strengths:

Portsmouth have a goal keeper and defence worthy of top six. The rejuvenated James kept 16 clean sheets last season behind a tough - as - teak back four boasting Glen Johnson, Sol Campbell, Sylvain Distin and Hermann Hreidarsson, who together made sure that once Pompey scored first they won every time last season.

Weaknesses:

Despite the seemingly impressive cast of Lassana Diarra, Nico Kranjcar and Sulley Muntari, the midfield can be guilty of a distinct lack of creativity or goals, and last season Pompey failed to score in 10 of there 18 games ar Fratton Park.

Player To Watch:

Peter Crouch. Was playing second fiddle to Torres at Liverpool and finally gets a chance to make a name for himself at Fratton Park. The Englishmen brings some added heigh and pace to the Pompey forwards and is a very dangerous goal threat.

Predicted Finish: 9th


Stoke City

After a wait of 23 years Stoke City return to the top flight of English football but how long can they hang around? Manager Tony Pulis has declared his side wont do a Derby and while they should improve on the Rams sorry record of a single win, there is nothing to suggest this bunch of mediocre Championship players will pile up nearly enough points to remain in the Premier League beyond this season.

Strengths:

It might not be enough, but the physical size and presence of the Stoke squad including six footers Leon Cort, Mamady Sidbe, Richardo Fuller and Richard Cresswell - will make them dangerous at corners, free kicks and long throws.

Weaknesses:

Stoke's raw and direct style of play makes them vunerable at the higher level, where the better quality opponents will stretch the pitch and exploit them at every opportunity.

Player to Watch:

Leon Cort. Finaly out from the shadow of his brother Carl, the 28 year old defender has a crucial role to play at the Britannia this season, as both a towering presence at the back and a goal threat at the other end of the pitch.

Predicted Finish: 20th


Sunderland

Twenty one defeats, a pitiful 36 goals and a finish only three points above the relegation zone is an appauling return on the $40 mil Sunderland invested last summer. This time round Roy Keane looks as if he has learned from his mistakes and has bought in alot of Premier League experience, including Pascal Chimbonda, El Hadji Diouf and Djibril Cisse among others. If all goes to plan and the team can gel well as unit, Keane could be looking at a place in Europe.

Strengths:

Amid the parade of Manchester United misfits and inadequate players, there are some beacons of hope at the Stadium of Light, in goal, Craig Gordon, an agile and commanding presence, often limited the damage and come close to not be being overpriced at $9 mil.

Weaknesses:

Sunderland are riddled with msifit players from other Premier League teams. On paper they look like they could possibly challenge for Europe contention but there are big questions over whether the team will be able to gel as a unit or fall to bits under pressure.

Player To Watch:

Andy Reid. After becoming known for the size of his waist than this talent, Reid is now showing glimpses of his early form for Forest and, briefly Spurs. The 25 year old, who was signed from Charlton for $4 mil in January, helped to steady Sunderland and should continue to repay the faith his manager has in him.

Predicted Finish: 12th




Tottenham

Which Juande Ramos will guide Spurs this season?Will it be the impressive figure who led his new club to their first trophy in almot a decade within months of his arrival, or the slightly helpless version who alarmingling allowed the season to slide away as soon as his players had staggered to nightclubs clutching their Carling Cup winners medals.

Strengths:

Although historically celebrated for there flair, Spurs now have a defence that could lead them back up the table. Flanked by the brilliant Alan Hutton and Gareth Bale, the partnership of Jonathon Woodgate and Ledley King has a special look to it. With that foundation the flair of Luka Modric, Giovani Dos Santos and David Bentley and the goals of Darren Bent it should make Spurs formidable.

Weaknesses:

Ledley King's kneww remains Spurs chief weakness, without there captain and longest serving player, who seems to be constantly struggling with injuries, they lack leadership and can appear lost. The loss of goal scoring partnership Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov could also have a huge impact on where Spurs finish this season.

Player To Watch:

Luka Modric. As England learned at their cost - and was again evident at Euro 2008 - the 22 year old playmaker is a very rare talent who should have a major impact at the Lane after signing for a huge fee in the summer.

Predicted Finish: 7th


West Brom

Dont be fooled into thinking this the same West Brom that won promotion on 2002 and 2004 and lasted no more than two seasons before being relegated. Tony Mowbray has assembled a resilient and attractive side, who play a slick passing game and, inspired by the Villarreal and AZ Alkmaar, hope to do more than just survive.

Strengths:

Although it will need to be augmented by some new signings, West Brom's adventourous spirit, which has produced 169 Championship goals in the last two seasons, gives them the best chance of the promoted clubs of staying up.

Weaknesses:

How Mowbray would like to find a modern version of himself. Too often and too easily his defence were breached last season, and a back four including Paul Robinson, Carl Hoefkens and Leon Barnett will be even more vulnerable this season.

Player To Watch:

Jonathon Greening. The midfielder offers the Baggies some crucial experience. The West Brom captain has a never sign die attitude and is every managers favourite type of player.

Predicted Finish: 16th


West Ham

George Cooper is the man who could determine West Ham's season. He is the club's overworked physio, and if - and it is a sizeable if - he can West Ham field their strongest starting eleven for most of the campaign, then with a squad superior to Everton or Aston Villa, the Hammers could replace either of them in the top 6.

Strengths:

West Ham are blessed with genuine quality throughout their squad. Robert Green continues to enhance his rep in goal, but it is in midfield and up front where West Ham look most potent, with the talents of Scott Parker, Mark Noble, Julien Faubert, Dean Ashton and Craig Bellamy.

Weaknesses:

All the players in West Ham's defence - Lucas Neil, Matthew Upson, George McCartney and Callum Davenport - have considerable merits, but as a unit they can often look like a bunch of strangers thrown together before kick off.

Player To Watch:

Freddie Sears.

Predicted Finish: 11th


Wigan

After all the ill - judged appointment of Chris Hutchings, Wigan now possess a man capable of keeping them in the Premier League, and possibly without the drama of last season. Bruce acheived 3 consecutive mid - table finishes with Birmingham City and could repeat that at the JJB.

Strengths:

Unsurprisingly for a Steve Bruce sude, Wigan are tough to break down; they boasted the best defence in the bottom half of the Premeir League last season. Chris Kirkland, who has signed a new deal has rediscovered his early promise behind a back four containing Emmerson Boyce, Paul Scharner and Mario Melchiot.

Weaknesses:

Only the record - shatteringly woeful Derby scored less goals in the Premier league last season, and Wigan's hopes of improving on there total have not been helped by the loss of there leading goal scorer Marcus Bent.

Player to Watch:

Wilson Palacios.

Predicted Finish: 14th

[safcrhys]

What a cracking start you've had, neat presentation and interesting to read. I'll be keeping an eye on this.

[Mercurial]

Great work so far mate like the lads say.

Oh yeah and thanks for the three points on Saturday, much appreciated.

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by Mercurial

Great work so far mate like the lads say.

cheers.

Oh yeah and thanks for the three points on Saturday, much appreciated.

we played ****e...worst i have seen...the ref didnt help

[Arsenal4eva179]

Brillaint start mate.

[Mercurial]

Originally Posted by Everton08

we played ****e...worst i have seen...the ref didnt help

Agree with you mate, Mike Riley spoiled the game.

[Everton08]

I have the game woooooooooooooooooo

[Geovanni10]

Gee, Everton Can You Do Me A Favour?

Can You Tell Me:

1. Hulls Rating
2. Hull's 3 Best Players

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by Geovanni10

Gee, Everton Can You Do Me A Favour?

Can You Tell Me:

1. Hulls Rating
2. Hull's 3 Best Players

yep, give me 2 secs

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by Geovanni10

Gee, Everton Can You Do Me A Favour?

Can You Tell Me:

1. Hulls Rating
2. Hull's 3 Best Players

3 and half star
Myhill 73
Geovanni 72
King 73

[ROBBEN2CFC]

geovanni @ 72, is beyond funny- he should be at least 75- i know ratings arent important but still...

wayne rooney's return to everton would make a good story, cant see it happening, but may be possile with the kind of form he's in. vagner love would be a good signing

whats jimmy bullards rating btw? thanks and nice mm

[llionf9t]

**** me, im so glad that evo08 has finally made a MM! hope to see the whole 1000+ posts gang back for 09 great start! ill check in later bud! have to go now

[llionf9t]

hey evo, could you tell me what torres and gerrards ratings are my good old pal! and if you have time, cristiano ronaldo..curious please mate

[Everton08]

Originally Posted by llionf9t

**** me, im so glad that evo08 has finally made a MM! hope to see the whole 1000+ posts gang back for 09 great start! ill check in later bud! have to go now

Yeah mate, thanks very much. Ill be updating soon, im just playing a few games

Originally Posted by llionf9t

hey evo, could you tell me what torres and gerrards ratings are my good old pal! and if you have time, cristiano ronaldo..curious please mate

Gerrard and Torres are both 88 and Ronaldo is 89