The English Premiership season kicks off today with Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool once again expected to dominate the chase for the title.
Here is Young Post 's guide to the championship contenders.
Arsenal are seeking their first back-to-back Premiership title and, with astute manager Arsene Wenger steering the ship, they have a great chance. New signings - French star Pascal Cygan and Brazilian World Cup winner Gilberto Silva - can make an impact, while talented youngsters Jermaine Pennant and Francis Jeffers are waiting in the wings.
Liverpool, managed by Gerard Houllier, have made steady progress over the past three seasons, finishing fourth, third and then second last season. Can they go a step further and become champions this time? Four quality summer signings - Bruno Cheyrou, El-Hadji Diouf, Alou Diarra and Salif Diao - could help the club clinch the title that has eluded them for 13 years.
Manchester United had a disappointing last season and Sir Alex Ferguson is unlikely to tolerate consecutive failures. Record GBP30 million (HK$357 million) signing Rio Ferdinand should tighten the defence and, with Juan Veron's magic in midfield and Ruud van Nistelrooy's consistent goalscoring, they certainly have the look of champions.
Above all, they are led by midfield hardman Roy Keane, a ferocious competitor who has inspired United's past championships. But the Irishman tends to self-destruct at times and his discipline over the season could be a key factor for the team's success.
