Swansea City. Last Season’s Finish: 9th. Expectations: Top 8. Predicted Finish: 6th.
Michael Laudrup is really building a strong Swansea squad fit for European competition. Winning the Capital One Cup last season and a respectable 9th place finish is a brilliant start to his managerial career in England. With no notable exits from the club, they have done well thus far to retain their prized assets Michu and co. Being very active in the transfer market they have done their business early and added depth to all area of the squad, including who I think will win signing of the summer.
Wilfried Bony took the Eredivisie by storm these past couple of seasons, scoring 31 times last year in particular, and only costing the club £12million for a top quality forward will be a bargain. Michu can play in a slightly deeper role which he prefers, and Bony will be the main marksman. Jonjo Shelvey impressed against Malmo in their first competitive game of the season, and will provide the creativity in the middle and chip in with key goals. Continuing to develop their Spanish contingent at the club, Jose Canas, Jordi Amat and Alex Pozuelo have all joined for small fee’s this summer. Laudrup is taking advantage of the cheap quality available in Spain. Arguably the most balanced side in the Premier League, they will take the league by storm and have a terrific chance of finishing in the Top 6.
Key Player: The combination of Michu and Bony up front will be vital for the clubs success. They showed against Malmo they can play with each other effectively, scoring 3 goals between them, they will look to score at least 30 goals between them, and should fire them into European contention.