AT WHAT COST ??

As the season comes closer to its conclusion I can't help but look at the table and see which teams have over or under achieved this season.  Teams such as Newcastle, Swansea, Norwich will finish in positions that very few would have expected at the start of the season.  Watching the Swansea Newcastle match today I couldn't help but think their season of success could prove to be hindering to the club overall.  Many clubs have enjoyed a season of success in the premier league and all it has served to do is attract financial stronger teams to poach their players.

Sadly in modern football most clubs cannot progress at the same rate as their star players unless they have a rich benefactor.  This then leads to many a football agent working their magic and assisting players gain the move they so badly desire. Looking at the Newcastle team I wonder if they will or will even want to keep hold of Tiote, Ba & Cisse this summer if or when a large transfer bid is submitted.  Mike Ashley all thoe not the most popular owner in the premier league has certainly made his club one of the most financially stable.  High earning and ageing players have been moved on with younger more hungry players brought in.  Again this sounds very easy but it falls heavily on a quality scouting department.  So should a large offer come in for Demba Ba will Newcastle be able to withhold.

In the case of Swansea they have brought a large number of unknown or untested players into the shop window.  Names such as Dyer, Britton, Allen, Sigurdsson & Sinclair have all attracted high reviews and undoubtedly the attention of many a premier league scout.  Could the elegant Swans keep hold of these players if a players head is turned by the promise of a 100% pay rise or European football.  The chances we all sadly know are slim.

This then leaves such premier league clubs in the position of having to fill such possible voids, this maybe possible short term but as has been sadly proven over time it is impossible to keep finding diamonds every season. 

I hope my thoughts are proved incorrect but sadly for one of these teams this season could prove to be a Indian summer.




TIPS FOR SATURDAY

Norwich / Everton both teams to score @1.83
Chelsea to win to nil @2.08
Bolton draw not bet @ 1.94

Outside Tip - Sunderland draw not bet @ 2.42

Good luck !!