 HERE we go again. Another Premier League season is upon us and, judging by the activities of certain clubs this summer, it promises to be the most keenly contested campaign for some time. West Ham, Newcastle, Tottenham and Manchester City have all spent fortunes since the last ball was kicked in anger and some supporters will struggle to recognise the new players on show, particularly if they haven’t been to any friendlies. It’s clear they all mean business, but just because Everton have not been as active as their rivals in the transfer market does not mean they are lacking in ambition. Far from it. The squad looks to be in terrific shape. In Tim Howard they have one of the best keepers in the country, the defensive record was outstanding last year and there is plenty of competition for places in midfield, too, which will increase if Manuel Fernandes arrives. There were patches after he arrived on loan in January when he looked tremendously exciting and Evertonians love nothing better than a player blessed with skill and ability. But I just felt there were occasions when he went missing too easily. He burst onto the scene with a couple of goals and there is no doubt the talent is there, but is that enough to fork out a huge amount of cash to sign him? And where would he fit in when Tim Cahill returns from injury? If there is a question mark hanging over the squad at present, it is up front. Are there enough goals around? James Beattie just did not do it and had to be moved on, while I still feel it is asking James Vaughan and Victor Anichebe too much too soon to score 15 goals per season. Andrew Johnson will get plenty but the need to bring someone else in is pressing and it would be a real boost if the move for Yakubu (pictured left) comes off. Strong, direct, quick, he would be the perfect foil for Johnson and is a good age at 24. Getting him in now for £10m would not be a risk as he would always have a sell-on value. He has played in the Premiership for a number of years and I doubt it would take him long to settle in. Fingers crossed it is a deal Everton can do. Provided a new striker is brought in, I see no reason why the Blues can’t make it into the top six again – and a big thing for me would be a run in one of the cups. Blues look for lift-off WIGAN are the first visitors to Goodison Park and while they will be a different proposition to last season, I expect Everton to get off to a fler.
After all, a win on the first day helps set the tone.
The signs in the previous 12 months have indicated that the Blues are making their home a fortress once again and I don’t expect too many teams to have much joy on Merseyside between now and May.
That, of course, means if Everton can get some momentum going on their travels, they will be right up there.
I really hope that someone can put pressure on the top four and close a gap that has been threatening to widen.
All being well, the team to do that will be wearing Royal Blue. | 
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