bwin Sportsblog - Football - A distinct lack of spending

With the exception of Manchester City, there are not many clubs who have spent hugely this year. The sensible thing was always to cut back as transfer spending was becoming rather silly and the Portsmouth fiasco has taught many clubs a lesson and is a serious warning sign. The lack of spending could help Manchester United but they do have a combination of older players and young kids coming through that may not fully make the grade once bigger things are expected of them. I expect Chelsea to retain the league this season and they are my tip but I do not say that with the same confidence as when I tipped them last season. I was surprised that the league season went to the final day but Chelsea do have an aging squad and this is something that Carlo Ancelotti will need to address. It is difficult to see Arsenal making the final steps needed although I am sure that they will continue to look good against the weaker teams. Liverpool under Hodgson and with Joe Cole should do better than last term but they will have their work cut out to get a top 4 slot. The fast emerging Manchester City will be pushing hard for top four this season and I expect them to get 3rd or 4th and I still do not think that the title is beyond City even this season although I think that it is a season or two too early for them. But the size and strength of their squad means that they could do some damage this season and their opening day fixture with Tottenham will be one to watch.