The time is upon us. This summer hasn’t been as painfully devoid of football as most, but the World Cup doesn’t quite satisfy the appetite for club football. So here are my opening day predictions. Tell me I’m wrong. I dare you.
Stoke have become an established Premiership side since their promotion in 2008, and Mick McCarthy seems to be looking to establish his Wolves side in the same way.
He’s spent a fair few quid, bringing in Steven Mouyokolo and Stephen Hunt from Hull, as well as breaking the club transfer record to sign Steven Fletcher from Burnley for £6.5million.
Stoke haven’t splashed out quite as much, although they broke their own transfer record to bring in Kenwyne Jones from Sunderland, for £8million. I think both sides will be comfortably safe from relegation, and there won’t be much to choose from them here.
Dangermen
Steven Fletcher – The Scot was Burnley’s top scorer last season with 12, and has the opportunity to increase that tally with a better midfield behind him at Wolves.
Matthew Etherington – Last season was the best of the winger’s career, and Tony Pulis will be looking for more of the same from Etherington
Prediction …Wolves 1 – 1 Stoke
