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Scottish Premier League Season Preview
Andrew Southwick looks at the season to come in Scotland...
| Bet: | Returns: | Dundee Utd XI £120.00 | Draw £12.00 | Celtic £45.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Dundee Utd XI £150.00 | Draw £14.00 | Celtic £36.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Dundee Utd XI £50.00 | Draw £37.50 | Celtic £16.70 |
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Aug 10, 2010 4:15:00 PM
By Andrew Southwick
Aberdeen
Manager: Mark McGhee since June 2009
Star men: Paul Hartley, Zander Diamond, Sone Aluko
Last Season: 9th
Season Objective: To get amongst the European places, and win a trophy for the first time since 1995.
Ins: Mark Howard, goalkeeper (St Mirren); Rory McArdle, defender (Rochdale); Josh Magennis, forward (Cardiff); Yoann Folly, midfielder (Plymouth); Scott Vernon, striker (Colchester United); Paul Hartley, midfielder (Bristol City)
A deal has also been agreed with left back Grant Basey, with the contract set to be signed as soon as manager McGhee manages to release someone on loan.
Outs: Stuart Nelson (Notts County), Stuart Duff, Charlie Mulgrew (Celtic), Mark Kerr (Asteras Tripolis), Davide Grassi (Sorrento Calcio). Jim Paterson and Steven MacLean have returned from loans to Plymouth
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Oasis, never going to recreate the 80s, but the fans would be happy to relive the early 90s.
Mark McGhee promised the long suffering Dons fans he would overhaul the squad, and in fairness he has been true to his word. The signing of Paul Hartley, immediately installed as club captain, is a real coup. His experience will be invaluable for the young players who will be surrounding him, while he has obvious class that Aberdeen’s midfield lacked last year.
Last season’s ninth place was unacceptable for a club of Aberdeen’s size, and only a return to Europe at the very least will keep McGhee in a job. The new signings will have to hit the ground running, but with injuries from last season clearing up, fresh faces, and a good mix now of youth and experience, the Dons look in their best shape for three years.
Prediction 4th
Celtic
Manager: Neil Lennon since March 2010
Star men: Scott Brown, Georgios Samaras, Joe Ledley
Last Season: 2nd
Season Objective: Win the league title back after a gap of two years – nothing else matters.
Ins: Daryl Murphy, striker (Sunderland); Efrain Juarez, midfielder (Pumas); Joe Ledley, midfielder (Cardiff); Charlie Mulgrew, defender (Aberdeen); Cha Du-Ri, defender (Freiburg); Gary Hooper, striker (Scunthorpe); Beram Kayal, midfielder (Maccabi Haifa)
Outs: Artur Boruc (Fiorentina), Stephen McManus (Middlesbrough), Lee Naylor, Mark Millar (Falkirk), Graham Carey (Huddersfield, loan), Jason Marr (Falkirk, loan), Simon Ferry & Paul Caddis (both Swindon)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Elton John. Throwing money away but never happy.
However, the £9 million they will bank from the McGeady sale should be able to net them a player or two. The problem will be though that they already lacked creativity, even with McGeady in the side. With him gone, they now need two big signings if the team is to be up to the same standard as deadly rivals Rangers.
Prediction: 2nd
Dundee United
Manager: Peter Houston since December 2009
Star men: Craig Conway, Morgaro Gomis, David Goodwillie
Last Season: 3rd (and Scottish Cup winners)
Season Objective: To stay in the European spots
Ins: Filip Mentel, goalkeeper (Manchester City); Barry Douglas, defender (Queen's Park)
Outs: Kevin Smith, (Notts County), Ryan McCord (Airdrie Utd, loan), Ross McCord (Montrose, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: JLS. Young, fibrant, and after years of hard work are currently basking in success.
After a few seasons of promise, Dundee United finally delivered last season, coming third and winning the Scottish Cup – the club’s first piece of silverware since 1994. Manager Peter Houston now enters his first full season in management, with expectation now weighing heavily on his shoulders.
Andrew Webster heading back to Rangers apart, the guts of last season’s team is still there. Likely to be stretched in defence, but with the abundance of attacking players at their disposal they are good enough to remain in the top three. With a bit of luck with injuries which they didn’t have last season, they might even give the Old Firm a scare.
Prediction: 3rd
Hamilton
Billy Reid since June 2005
Star players: Thomas Cerny, Martin Canning, Gary MacDonald
Last Season: 7th
Season Objective: To avoid relegation.
Ins: Jack Ross, defender, (St Mirren); Jim McAlister, midfielder, (Morton); Gavin Skelton, defender, (Kilmarnock); Andy Graham, defender (Stirling Albion); Gary McDonald, midfielder (Aberdeen)
Outs: James McArthur (Wigan), Trent McClenahan, Lucas Akins, Richie Hastings, Declan McAvoy, Gerry O'Connell, Tony Stevenson, David van Zanten (St Mirren), Brian Easton, Gary Inglis, Joel Thomas, James Wesolowski (Peterborough), Nicky Riley (Dundee), Grant Evans (Morton, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Girls Aloud. Having to constantly live with rumours they’re breaking up.
Accies fans are currently experiencing deja vu, after their summer activity mirrored the previous season. Last year, James McCarthy was snapped up by Wigan, robbing Hamilton and Scottish football of one of the hottest young prospects seen for a number of years. A year later, and the almost similarly named James McArthur – the star man for Billy Reid’s men last season – has left for……Wigan.
Hamilton did well last season to finish 7th, and manager Billy Reid produced perhaps the biggest transfer shock of the summer when he himself turned down the chance to manage Swansea to instead remain at New Douglas Park. However, the squad looks thin, the list of stars is sparse, and it will be nothing short of a miracle if he can continue to keep Hamilton away from the clutches of relegation. With Kilmarnock strengthening, it could be a fight between St Mirren and Hamilton for the drop.
Prediction: 12th
Heart of Midlothian
Manager: Jim Jefferies since January 2010
Star men: Marius Zaliukas, Andrew Driver, Suso Santana
Last Season: 6th
Season Objective: Hearts are a club who feel they should be challenging the Old Firm, with third place the minimum.
Ins: Darren Barr, defender (Falkirk); Kevin Kyle, forward (Kilmarnock), Marian Kello, goalkeeper (FBK Kaunas), Stephen Elliot, forward (Preston)
Outs: Laryea Kingston, Michael Stewart (Genclerbirligi), Jose Goncalves, Christian Nade, Rocky Visconte (Brisbane Roar), Michael Deland (East Fife, loan), Jamie Mole (Raith Rovers, loan), Mark Ridgers (Airdrie Utd, loan), David Armstrong
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Sugababes. You never know when the next sacking will take place.
It has been a tough summer for Jim Jefferies. Tynecastle legend Paul Hartley looked to be re-joining the club, only for the deal to fall through and Hartley to end up at rivals Aberdeen. That move has not sat well with the Jambos and their displeasure has grown with the failure so far to sign an attacking midfielder, with the chase for Kilmarnock’s Craig Bryson appearing fruitless.
Hearts could only muster 35 league goals last season, but with Kevin Kyle and Stephen Elliot signed up the hopes are high of at least beating that. Hearts will be looking up the table, however with key injuries at the start of the season, and the strikeforce apart little improvement across the squad, they could be left in the blocks looking to play catch up again. At the moment, just remaining in the top six might be an achievement in itself.
Prediction: 5th
Hibernian
Manager: John Hughes since June 2009
Star men: Liam Miller, Anthony Stokes, Derek Riordan
Last Season: 4th
Season Objective: Finishing above Hearts in the league, and winning the Scottish Cup for the first time since 1902, would put the Hibees in dreamland.
Ins: Edwin de Graaf, midfielder (NAC Breda); David Stephens, defender (Norwich); Michael Hart (Preston North End)
Outs: Yves Ma-Kalambay, Abdessalam Benjelloun, Darren McCormack (Ross County), Patrick Cregg, Kevin McCann, (Inverness, loan), Ewan Moyes, Calum Booth (both Brechin, loan), Kurtis Byrne (East Fife, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Girls Can’t Catch. Adorable to look at, but struggling to be a success.
The SPL season has yet to arrive, and already manager John Hughes is feeling the strain. His side was efficiently knocked out of Europe by Slovenian cracks Maribor, leaving Hibs' European adventure over before it had properly got started. That cranks up the pressure ahead of a campaign where Hughes will do very well to match the fourth place finish his side secured last season. Many pundits felt Hibs were fortunate to be in the position they were, with performances ropey at times to say the least. A great start to the season, incredible luck with injuries, and two big signings of Stokes and Miller just before the transfer window closed; played their part in Hibs finishing above Motherwell and Hearts.
With the new season bringing everyone back level at zero points, and all the hard work needing to start again, it is a tough ask for Hibs to be top four again. Though Hibs passing game is a joy to watch, the defending is witnessed through with squinted eyes by a Hibs support becoming accustomed to howlers.
Prediction: 6th
Inverness Caledonian Thistle
Manager: Terry Butcher since January 2009.
Star men: Jonny Tuffey, Adam Rooney, Richie Foran.
Last Season: First Division champions
Season Objective: To avoid an instant return to the lower leagues.
Ins: Chris Innes, defender (St Mirren); Kevin McCann, defender (Hibernian, loan); Jonathan Tuffey, goalkeeper (Partick Thistle); Gil Blumenshtein, forward (Hapoel Bersheba); Max Johnson, goalkeeper (Newcastle); Kenny Gillet, defender (Barnet)
Outs: Lionel Djebi-Zadi, Nauris Bulvitis, Kyle Allison, Jamie Duff, Robert Eagle, Daniel Stratford
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Take That. Back in the big time, but are they back for good?
Although the relegated team from the SPL will always be amongst the favourites to win division one, it should be noted how difficult Inverness Caley’s task was. With Dundee outspending most of the top flight sides last summer, and Ross County continuing to improve, no-one would have deemed Terry Butcher a failure had he just missed out on promotion.
Instead though the former England lionheart led them to a comfortable promotion. After that, who would write them off now?
Prediction: 10th
Kilmarnock
Manager: Mixu Paatelainen since June 2010.
Star men: Mehdi Taouil, Craig Bryson, James Fowler
Last Season: 11th
Season Objective: To stay up, and stay in existence.
Ins: David Da Silva, midfielder (CSKA Sofia), Ben Gordon, defender (Chelsea, loan)
Outs: Jamie Adams (St Johnstone), Mark Burchill, David Fernandez, Gavin Skelton (Hamilton), Kevin Kyle (Hearts), Simon Ford (Chesterfield), Lee Robinson, Allan Russell (Carolina Railhawks)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Glasvegas. Have the talent, but just aren’t quite achieving as much as they should.
Kilmarnock didn’t just stare relegation in the face when they faced a do or die last day face-off with Falkirk last season, they faced the prospect of going bust, such was the dire financial position of the club. Remaining in the SPL has almost certainly saved the club for another year. They’ve lost Kevin Kyle up front, plus impressive on-loan man Chris Maguire has returned to Aberdeen. With rumours Craig Bryson could be Hearts bound its not looking too great for Killie.
However new manager Paatelainen seems to have bought well in the transfer market, and new siging David Silva looks a decent player. With Momo Sissoko also set to come in at centre defence, Killie fans could be forgiven for giving a double take when the big names were being linked with their club. They are of course name sakes, but impressive none the less. Add to that trialist James Dayton who has been going past players for fun in pre-season, Kilmarnock could emerge from this summer a better side than the dismal one that let the fans down so badly last year.
Prediction: 9th
Motherwell
Manager: Craig Brown since December 2009
Star men: Stevie Hammell, Ross Forbes, Jamie Murphy
Last Season: 5th
Season Objective: Top six again.
Ins: Darren Randolph, goalkeeper (Charlton); Lee Hollis, goalkeeper (Airdrie Utd); Angelis Charalambous, defender (Anorthosis Famagusta)
Outs: Jim O'Brien (Barnsley); Giles Coke (Sheffield Wednesday), Darren Smith (Ross County), Mark Archdeacon
If they were a pop star, they’d be: The Saturdays. Not only young and easy on the eye, but it also helps that new signing Darren Randolph used to date one of the group.
Similar to last year, Motherwell’s season has began early, with European competition starting in the middle of July. After four decent results that have seen Craig Brown’s men reach the Europa League play-off round, the kind draw that pitched them with Odense may even see the Lanarkshire men nick a spot in the group stages. Performances have been born out of solid defensive displays, with great young talents Ross Forbes and Jamie Murphy now the first names on the teamsheet.
The squad is desperately thin though, and lacks the creative talents of last season’s talisman Jim O’Brien. The Steelmen may well get their wish of a long European run, but over the course of the season it remains to be seen if the side has the stamina to stay in the top half of the division.
Prediction: 8th
Rangers
Manager: Walter Smith since January 2007 (second spell)
Star men: Madjid Bougherra, Steve Davis, Kenny Miller.
Last Season: Champions.
Season Objective: In Glasgow, first is everything, and second may as well be last. The title has to be won again, no excuses.
Ins: None.
Outs: Danny Wilson (Liverpool), Kevin Thomson, (Middlesbrough), Kris Boyd (Middlesbrough), Steven Smith, DaMarcus Beasley, Nacho Novo (Sporting Gijon), Scott Durie (East Fife)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Joe McElderry. A winner just now, but likely to be bankrupt in a year.
This may well prove to be Walter Smith’s hardest season as Rangers manager. The club is in a desperate financial state; with the bank seizing most of the assets gained from the sales of players, and set to claim most of the Champions League prize money too. However, their biggest rivals Celtic have not bought impressively, and if the two first XI’s are pitched side by side, Rangers still look the stronger side.
Champions League games will take their toll, but with impressive youngsters coming in to bulk up the squad, and Walter Smith’s experience against the managerial debutant of Neil Lennon, the champions could well make it three-in-a-row.
Prediction: Champions
St Johnstone
Manager: Derek McInnes since November 2007
Star men: Kevin Ruitkiewicz, Michael Duberry, Jody Morris
Last Season: 8th
Season Objective: To push for a top six spot.
Ins: Marcus Haber, striker (West Brom, loan); Sam Parkin, forward (Walsall); Cleveland Taylor, forward (Brentford); Jamie Adams, midfielder (Kilmarnock); Scott Dobie, forward (Carlisle), Peter Enckelman, goalkeeper (Cardiff)
Outs: Kenny Deuchar (Falkirk), Filipe Morais, Alan Main, Gary Irvine (Dundee), Paul Sheerin (Arbroath manager), Euan McLean, Gavin Swankie, Josh Falkingham, Mark Connolly, Jamie Adams (Dundee, loan), Stuart McCaffrey (Morton)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Kasabian. Have a lot of admirers, but can’t be considered great yet.
St Johnstone where under the radar last season, rarely talked about and rarely given column inches anywhere. All of a sudden Rangers were thumped 4-1 at McDairmid Park, and Scotland realised the good work Derek McInnes was doing.
A home for players set for the scrapheap; Jody Morris, Michael Duberry and Kevin Rutkiewicz have recovered from being unwanted elsewhere into major players in Perth. With Stuart Duff the latest of the lost boys to be snapped up, who would bet on his career having a lease of life too? St Johnstone have not lost any of their big players, and have managed to add sensibly. Again they are under the radar, rarely meriting a whisper of their chances. However they are well positioned to improve on the last season and could finish above some bigger clubs in the fight for a top six spot.
Prediction: 7th
St Mirren
Manager: Danny Lennon since June 2010
Star men: Paul Gallagher, Craig Dargo, Michael Higdon.
Last Season: 10th
Season Objective: Avoid the relegation dogfight.
Ins: Marc McAusland, defender (Queen of the South); David van Zanten, defender (Hamilton); Darren McGregor, defender (Cowdenbeath); Paul McQuade, forward (Cowdenbeath); Peter Bradley, defender (Cowdenbeath); Gareth Wardlaw, forward (Cowdenbeath); Craig Samson, goalkeeper (Ayr United); Jure Travner, defender (Watford, loan); Sean Lynch, midfielder (unattached)
Outs: Billy Mehmet (Genclerbirligi), Tom Brighton, Chris Innes (Inverness), Jack Ross (Hamilton), Stephen O'Donnell (Dundee), Andy Dorman (Crystal Palace); Chris Smith (Dunfermline), Mark Howard (Aberdeen), Allan Johnston (Queen of the South)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Amy Winehouse. Lack the talent but somehow are still in the big time.
It isn't right to pre-judge a manager before he has taken charge of a competitive game; however Danny Lennon looks to have a near impossible task ahead of him, a job that better men than him would perhaps fail at.
The favourites for the drop are St Mirren and Kilmarnock. After a slow start Killie are now starting to bring in some decent players, and if Sissoko and Dayten sign then St Mirren are playing catch up in that regard. Lennon may feel he has brought in good bargains from old club Cowdenbeath, but the fear is these guys – with little or no top flight experience – will struggle to make the grade. St Mirren's best chance of survival this season might be in getting off to a flyer before the Kilmarnock side have time to gel.
Prediction: 11th
Manager: Mark McGhee since June 2009
Star men: Paul Hartley, Zander Diamond, Sone Aluko
Last Season: 9th
Season Objective: To get amongst the European places, and win a trophy for the first time since 1995.
Ins: Mark Howard, goalkeeper (St Mirren); Rory McArdle, defender (Rochdale); Josh Magennis, forward (Cardiff); Yoann Folly, midfielder (Plymouth); Scott Vernon, striker (Colchester United); Paul Hartley, midfielder (Bristol City)
A deal has also been agreed with left back Grant Basey, with the contract set to be signed as soon as manager McGhee manages to release someone on loan.
Outs: Stuart Nelson (Notts County), Stuart Duff, Charlie Mulgrew (Celtic), Mark Kerr (Asteras Tripolis), Davide Grassi (Sorrento Calcio). Jim Paterson and Steven MacLean have returned from loans to Plymouth
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Oasis, never going to recreate the 80s, but the fans would be happy to relive the early 90s.
Mark McGhee promised the long suffering Dons fans he would overhaul the squad, and in fairness he has been true to his word. The signing of Paul Hartley, immediately installed as club captain, is a real coup. His experience will be invaluable for the young players who will be surrounding him, while he has obvious class that Aberdeen’s midfield lacked last year.
Last season’s ninth place was unacceptable for a club of Aberdeen’s size, and only a return to Europe at the very least will keep McGhee in a job. The new signings will have to hit the ground running, but with injuries from last season clearing up, fresh faces, and a good mix now of youth and experience, the Dons look in their best shape for three years.
Prediction 4th
Celtic
Manager: Neil Lennon since March 2010
Star men: Scott Brown, Georgios Samaras, Joe Ledley
Last Season: 2nd
Season Objective: Win the league title back after a gap of two years – nothing else matters.
Ins: Daryl Murphy, striker (Sunderland); Efrain Juarez, midfielder (Pumas); Joe Ledley, midfielder (Cardiff); Charlie Mulgrew, defender (Aberdeen); Cha Du-Ri, defender (Freiburg); Gary Hooper, striker (Scunthorpe); Beram Kayal, midfielder (Maccabi Haifa)
Outs: Artur Boruc (Fiorentina), Stephen McManus (Middlesbrough), Lee Naylor, Mark Millar (Falkirk), Graham Carey (Huddersfield, loan), Jason Marr (Falkirk, loan), Simon Ferry & Paul Caddis (both Swindon)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Elton John. Throwing money away but never happy.
However, the £9 million they will bank from the McGeady sale should be able to net them a player or two. The problem will be though that they already lacked creativity, even with McGeady in the side. With him gone, they now need two big signings if the team is to be up to the same standard as deadly rivals Rangers.
Prediction: 2nd
Dundee United
Manager: Peter Houston since December 2009
Star men: Craig Conway, Morgaro Gomis, David Goodwillie
Last Season: 3rd (and Scottish Cup winners)
Season Objective: To stay in the European spots
Ins: Filip Mentel, goalkeeper (Manchester City); Barry Douglas, defender (Queen's Park)
Outs: Kevin Smith, (Notts County), Ryan McCord (Airdrie Utd, loan), Ross McCord (Montrose, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: JLS. Young, fibrant, and after years of hard work are currently basking in success.
After a few seasons of promise, Dundee United finally delivered last season, coming third and winning the Scottish Cup – the club’s first piece of silverware since 1994. Manager Peter Houston now enters his first full season in management, with expectation now weighing heavily on his shoulders.
Andrew Webster heading back to Rangers apart, the guts of last season’s team is still there. Likely to be stretched in defence, but with the abundance of attacking players at their disposal they are good enough to remain in the top three. With a bit of luck with injuries which they didn’t have last season, they might even give the Old Firm a scare.
Prediction: 3rd
Hamilton
Billy Reid since June 2005
Star players: Thomas Cerny, Martin Canning, Gary MacDonald
Last Season: 7th
Season Objective: To avoid relegation.
Ins: Jack Ross, defender, (St Mirren); Jim McAlister, midfielder, (Morton); Gavin Skelton, defender, (Kilmarnock); Andy Graham, defender (Stirling Albion); Gary McDonald, midfielder (Aberdeen)
Outs: James McArthur (Wigan), Trent McClenahan, Lucas Akins, Richie Hastings, Declan McAvoy, Gerry O'Connell, Tony Stevenson, David van Zanten (St Mirren), Brian Easton, Gary Inglis, Joel Thomas, James Wesolowski (Peterborough), Nicky Riley (Dundee), Grant Evans (Morton, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Girls Aloud. Having to constantly live with rumours they’re breaking up.
Accies fans are currently experiencing deja vu, after their summer activity mirrored the previous season. Last year, James McCarthy was snapped up by Wigan, robbing Hamilton and Scottish football of one of the hottest young prospects seen for a number of years. A year later, and the almost similarly named James McArthur – the star man for Billy Reid’s men last season – has left for……Wigan.
Hamilton did well last season to finish 7th, and manager Billy Reid produced perhaps the biggest transfer shock of the summer when he himself turned down the chance to manage Swansea to instead remain at New Douglas Park. However, the squad looks thin, the list of stars is sparse, and it will be nothing short of a miracle if he can continue to keep Hamilton away from the clutches of relegation. With Kilmarnock strengthening, it could be a fight between St Mirren and Hamilton for the drop.
Prediction: 12th
Heart of Midlothian
Manager: Jim Jefferies since January 2010
Star men: Marius Zaliukas, Andrew Driver, Suso Santana
Last Season: 6th
Season Objective: Hearts are a club who feel they should be challenging the Old Firm, with third place the minimum.
Ins: Darren Barr, defender (Falkirk); Kevin Kyle, forward (Kilmarnock), Marian Kello, goalkeeper (FBK Kaunas), Stephen Elliot, forward (Preston)
Outs: Laryea Kingston, Michael Stewart (Genclerbirligi), Jose Goncalves, Christian Nade, Rocky Visconte (Brisbane Roar), Michael Deland (East Fife, loan), Jamie Mole (Raith Rovers, loan), Mark Ridgers (Airdrie Utd, loan), David Armstrong
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Sugababes. You never know when the next sacking will take place.
It has been a tough summer for Jim Jefferies. Tynecastle legend Paul Hartley looked to be re-joining the club, only for the deal to fall through and Hartley to end up at rivals Aberdeen. That move has not sat well with the Jambos and their displeasure has grown with the failure so far to sign an attacking midfielder, with the chase for Kilmarnock’s Craig Bryson appearing fruitless.
Hearts could only muster 35 league goals last season, but with Kevin Kyle and Stephen Elliot signed up the hopes are high of at least beating that. Hearts will be looking up the table, however with key injuries at the start of the season, and the strikeforce apart little improvement across the squad, they could be left in the blocks looking to play catch up again. At the moment, just remaining in the top six might be an achievement in itself.
Prediction: 5th
Hibernian
Manager: John Hughes since June 2009
Star men: Liam Miller, Anthony Stokes, Derek Riordan
Last Season: 4th
Season Objective: Finishing above Hearts in the league, and winning the Scottish Cup for the first time since 1902, would put the Hibees in dreamland.
Ins: Edwin de Graaf, midfielder (NAC Breda); David Stephens, defender (Norwich); Michael Hart (Preston North End)
Outs: Yves Ma-Kalambay, Abdessalam Benjelloun, Darren McCormack (Ross County), Patrick Cregg, Kevin McCann, (Inverness, loan), Ewan Moyes, Calum Booth (both Brechin, loan), Kurtis Byrne (East Fife, loan)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Girls Can’t Catch. Adorable to look at, but struggling to be a success.
The SPL season has yet to arrive, and already manager John Hughes is feeling the strain. His side was efficiently knocked out of Europe by Slovenian cracks Maribor, leaving Hibs' European adventure over before it had properly got started. That cranks up the pressure ahead of a campaign where Hughes will do very well to match the fourth place finish his side secured last season. Many pundits felt Hibs were fortunate to be in the position they were, with performances ropey at times to say the least. A great start to the season, incredible luck with injuries, and two big signings of Stokes and Miller just before the transfer window closed; played their part in Hibs finishing above Motherwell and Hearts.
With the new season bringing everyone back level at zero points, and all the hard work needing to start again, it is a tough ask for Hibs to be top four again. Though Hibs passing game is a joy to watch, the defending is witnessed through with squinted eyes by a Hibs support becoming accustomed to howlers.
Prediction: 6th
Inverness Caledonian Thistle
Manager: Terry Butcher since January 2009.
Star men: Jonny Tuffey, Adam Rooney, Richie Foran.
Last Season: First Division champions
Season Objective: To avoid an instant return to the lower leagues.
Ins: Chris Innes, defender (St Mirren); Kevin McCann, defender (Hibernian, loan); Jonathan Tuffey, goalkeeper (Partick Thistle); Gil Blumenshtein, forward (Hapoel Bersheba); Max Johnson, goalkeeper (Newcastle); Kenny Gillet, defender (Barnet)
Outs: Lionel Djebi-Zadi, Nauris Bulvitis, Kyle Allison, Jamie Duff, Robert Eagle, Daniel Stratford
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Take That. Back in the big time, but are they back for good?
Although the relegated team from the SPL will always be amongst the favourites to win division one, it should be noted how difficult Inverness Caley’s task was. With Dundee outspending most of the top flight sides last summer, and Ross County continuing to improve, no-one would have deemed Terry Butcher a failure had he just missed out on promotion.
Instead though the former England lionheart led them to a comfortable promotion. After that, who would write them off now?
Prediction: 10th
Kilmarnock
Manager: Mixu Paatelainen since June 2010.
Star men: Mehdi Taouil, Craig Bryson, James Fowler
Last Season: 11th
Season Objective: To stay up, and stay in existence.
Ins: David Da Silva, midfielder (CSKA Sofia), Ben Gordon, defender (Chelsea, loan)
Outs: Jamie Adams (St Johnstone), Mark Burchill, David Fernandez, Gavin Skelton (Hamilton), Kevin Kyle (Hearts), Simon Ford (Chesterfield), Lee Robinson, Allan Russell (Carolina Railhawks)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Glasvegas. Have the talent, but just aren’t quite achieving as much as they should.
Kilmarnock didn’t just stare relegation in the face when they faced a do or die last day face-off with Falkirk last season, they faced the prospect of going bust, such was the dire financial position of the club. Remaining in the SPL has almost certainly saved the club for another year. They’ve lost Kevin Kyle up front, plus impressive on-loan man Chris Maguire has returned to Aberdeen. With rumours Craig Bryson could be Hearts bound its not looking too great for Killie.
However new manager Paatelainen seems to have bought well in the transfer market, and new siging David Silva looks a decent player. With Momo Sissoko also set to come in at centre defence, Killie fans could be forgiven for giving a double take when the big names were being linked with their club. They are of course name sakes, but impressive none the less. Add to that trialist James Dayton who has been going past players for fun in pre-season, Kilmarnock could emerge from this summer a better side than the dismal one that let the fans down so badly last year.
Prediction: 9th
Motherwell
Manager: Craig Brown since December 2009
Star men: Stevie Hammell, Ross Forbes, Jamie Murphy
Last Season: 5th
Season Objective: Top six again.
Ins: Darren Randolph, goalkeeper (Charlton); Lee Hollis, goalkeeper (Airdrie Utd); Angelis Charalambous, defender (Anorthosis Famagusta)
Outs: Jim O'Brien (Barnsley); Giles Coke (Sheffield Wednesday), Darren Smith (Ross County), Mark Archdeacon
If they were a pop star, they’d be: The Saturdays. Not only young and easy on the eye, but it also helps that new signing Darren Randolph used to date one of the group.
Similar to last year, Motherwell’s season has began early, with European competition starting in the middle of July. After four decent results that have seen Craig Brown’s men reach the Europa League play-off round, the kind draw that pitched them with Odense may even see the Lanarkshire men nick a spot in the group stages. Performances have been born out of solid defensive displays, with great young talents Ross Forbes and Jamie Murphy now the first names on the teamsheet.
The squad is desperately thin though, and lacks the creative talents of last season’s talisman Jim O’Brien. The Steelmen may well get their wish of a long European run, but over the course of the season it remains to be seen if the side has the stamina to stay in the top half of the division.
Prediction: 8th
Rangers
Manager: Walter Smith since January 2007 (second spell)
Star men: Madjid Bougherra, Steve Davis, Kenny Miller.
Last Season: Champions.
Season Objective: In Glasgow, first is everything, and second may as well be last. The title has to be won again, no excuses.
Ins: None.
Outs: Danny Wilson (Liverpool), Kevin Thomson, (Middlesbrough), Kris Boyd (Middlesbrough), Steven Smith, DaMarcus Beasley, Nacho Novo (Sporting Gijon), Scott Durie (East Fife)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Joe McElderry. A winner just now, but likely to be bankrupt in a year.
This may well prove to be Walter Smith’s hardest season as Rangers manager. The club is in a desperate financial state; with the bank seizing most of the assets gained from the sales of players, and set to claim most of the Champions League prize money too. However, their biggest rivals Celtic have not bought impressively, and if the two first XI’s are pitched side by side, Rangers still look the stronger side.
Champions League games will take their toll, but with impressive youngsters coming in to bulk up the squad, and Walter Smith’s experience against the managerial debutant of Neil Lennon, the champions could well make it three-in-a-row.
Prediction: Champions
St Johnstone
Manager: Derek McInnes since November 2007
Star men: Kevin Ruitkiewicz, Michael Duberry, Jody Morris
Last Season: 8th
Season Objective: To push for a top six spot.
Ins: Marcus Haber, striker (West Brom, loan); Sam Parkin, forward (Walsall); Cleveland Taylor, forward (Brentford); Jamie Adams, midfielder (Kilmarnock); Scott Dobie, forward (Carlisle), Peter Enckelman, goalkeeper (Cardiff)
Outs: Kenny Deuchar (Falkirk), Filipe Morais, Alan Main, Gary Irvine (Dundee), Paul Sheerin (Arbroath manager), Euan McLean, Gavin Swankie, Josh Falkingham, Mark Connolly, Jamie Adams (Dundee, loan), Stuart McCaffrey (Morton)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Kasabian. Have a lot of admirers, but can’t be considered great yet.
St Johnstone where under the radar last season, rarely talked about and rarely given column inches anywhere. All of a sudden Rangers were thumped 4-1 at McDairmid Park, and Scotland realised the good work Derek McInnes was doing.
A home for players set for the scrapheap; Jody Morris, Michael Duberry and Kevin Rutkiewicz have recovered from being unwanted elsewhere into major players in Perth. With Stuart Duff the latest of the lost boys to be snapped up, who would bet on his career having a lease of life too? St Johnstone have not lost any of their big players, and have managed to add sensibly. Again they are under the radar, rarely meriting a whisper of their chances. However they are well positioned to improve on the last season and could finish above some bigger clubs in the fight for a top six spot.
Prediction: 7th
St Mirren
Manager: Danny Lennon since June 2010
Star men: Paul Gallagher, Craig Dargo, Michael Higdon.
Last Season: 10th
Season Objective: Avoid the relegation dogfight.
Ins: Marc McAusland, defender (Queen of the South); David van Zanten, defender (Hamilton); Darren McGregor, defender (Cowdenbeath); Paul McQuade, forward (Cowdenbeath); Peter Bradley, defender (Cowdenbeath); Gareth Wardlaw, forward (Cowdenbeath); Craig Samson, goalkeeper (Ayr United); Jure Travner, defender (Watford, loan); Sean Lynch, midfielder (unattached)
Outs: Billy Mehmet (Genclerbirligi), Tom Brighton, Chris Innes (Inverness), Jack Ross (Hamilton), Stephen O'Donnell (Dundee), Andy Dorman (Crystal Palace); Chris Smith (Dunfermline), Mark Howard (Aberdeen), Allan Johnston (Queen of the South)
If they were a pop star, they’d be: Amy Winehouse. Lack the talent but somehow are still in the big time.
It isn't right to pre-judge a manager before he has taken charge of a competitive game; however Danny Lennon looks to have a near impossible task ahead of him, a job that better men than him would perhaps fail at.
The favourites for the drop are St Mirren and Kilmarnock. After a slow start Killie are now starting to bring in some decent players, and if Sissoko and Dayten sign then St Mirren are playing catch up in that regard. Lennon may feel he has brought in good bargains from old club Cowdenbeath, but the fear is these guys – with little or no top flight experience – will struggle to make the grade. St Mirren's best chance of survival this season might be in getting off to a flyer before the Kilmarnock side have time to gel.
Prediction: 11th
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