Back then expectations were pretty high after the great 2004-2005 campaign and the 4th place
, but Everton stumbled big time and it took long time to get back on track. Finished 11th last season and wasnt so bad
taking in mind their horrible start. Now nobody expects them to do miracles and there isnt such pressure on the team.
In the same time after the break they look quite a complete team to me and I really fancy them having a good season.
No doubt bringing AJ in quite an expensive deal shows they mean business after releasing long time player Duncan Ferguson.
They also got tim Howard from Man Utd and its almost sure he will start at goal. Snapped also Wolves highly rated defender
Joleon Lescott. All are quality signings IMO and now the team is having a good depth and is completely ready to start.
Only injury trouble is Tony Hibbert, who is expected to miss until the end of the month. So most probably Neville will take his place in defense.
Shouldnt really be a problem as he has been playing at this position almost his entire carreer.
Midfield looks quite strong to me, maybe bringing another pacey winger would do good, but as I said its strong enough.
I really expect Arteta to make his best season since he joined Everton. Attack looks great too with most probably AJ and
Beattie starting and McFadden doing the cover. 1 more striker wouldnt heart, but Anichebe is a great prospect, so IMO they have enough fire power.
Watford stunned everyone last season. They were expected to have a mediocre season with a mid table finish at most,
but proved all pundits wrong. Great young manager, who maybe isnt the best tactician on earth, but surely knows how to fire up his squad.
They always play good, attacking football and is a pleasure to watch. This will not change tomorrow and I dont think theyll sit
and defend for 90 minutes. Best transfer they made was the rock solid QPR defender Shittu, who will take his place in the center of Hornets defense
. They also brought some young and promissing players, but will mainly rely on last yars squad with the exception of Shittu of course.
Now there is no need to explain how big is the difference between the Championship and the Premiership. Its huge. I really like Watford,
admire their managers passion and attack minded football, but IMO they might struggle in this league. Marlon King will surely be a
constant threat for every defense, but dont expect him to score 22 goals again. Everton is solid in the back, has a creative midfield
and much improved attack compared to last season.
