F
Everton… Not only has the rot set in, but the lack of transfer activity leaves Sean Dyche with an unbalanced squad who simply aren’t strong enough to stay in the division. Dyche is one of the best managers for this type of situation but this is a bridge too far for him.
Wolves… Sold their two best players while not reinforcing the side. Gary O’Neill had a similar situation last year at Bournemouth and kept them in the division and so far Wolves are battling hard, but it’s going to be a slog.
Burnley… For all the good football Vincent Kompany’s side played last year in the Championship, something is apparent this season. The squad is naïve, hasn’t been reinforced with Premier League experience and is lacking in terms of defensive quality. Add to that James Trafford, a wonderful long-term prospect, but not-yet-ready keeper being bought for a high fee from Manchester City and this is heading in the wrong direction. The Clarets resemble an experimental squad. The balance just isn’t there.
Crystal Palace… Lost Wilfred Zaha and didn’t replace him effectively. But didn’t lose Olise or Eze which I suppose is a positive. Still not enough business done and Palace is only being saved by the poor overall quality of the bottom half in the Prem.
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