Can’t really look past Middlesbrough this season. After getting relegated, they have done very well to rebuild their squad. They have Garry Monk in charge, who did very well with Leeds United last season, and have brought in some great players. The likes of Britt Assombalonga, Jonny Howson and Cyrus Christie can fire a team into the Premier League and that’s exactly what I think will happen this time around.
2. Aston Villa
Ok, this one might be the prediction that burns me. Basically, this prediction is all based on Steve Bruce. This man has been able to get a lot of teams promoted to the Premier League in the past and while they disappointed last year, this is still one of the most talented squads he has had while in this league. Aside from John Terry, the signings they have made have not been eye-catching but in a good way. Glenn Whelan and Ahmed Elmohamady are workhouses, the sort who will get on with the job, the job of getting promoted.
3. Derby County
Again, the power of a good manager. Gary Rowett is one of the best managers in this league and sacking him is one of the stupidest things that Birmingham City have ever done. And with the Rams picking up the likes of Andre Wisdom and Tom Huddlestone, I think that’ll be enough to get them into the play-offs. They had some great form at the end of last season and they should carry that into this year.
4. Fulham
In my opinion, Fulham are a team that can only get better. I’m sure some will write their form last season off as a fluke and that signing unknowns from France isn’t a recipe for success, but I get the feeling from this team that they will be excellent again this year. Slavisa Jokanovic is an excellent manager and will have this team energized plus they will have plenty of confidence after getting into the play-offs last year.
5. Reading
Reading are boring. Really really boring. Possible the most boring team in the country. But they are effective. Yes, make your jokes that all they do is make the opposition fall asleep, but it works. I do feel like some teams will discover a way to combat their style of play, espresso before the match perhaps, but not enough to see them drop out of the play-offs.
There’s been an air of negativity around Hillsborough this summer as they have only made one signing, George Boyd, after another play-off disappointment. And I get it, they should have signed more. But the squad is still very good and while I can’t see them going as high as they did last season, there is no reason why the Owls once again can’t suffer more play-off disappointment.
