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MIDDLESBROUGH SEASON PREVIEW 1-8-08
It's the time of year when we all do our prediction leagues.
Being a referee, you might not be surprised that I find it difficult to make a decision, especially where Boro are concerned.
I usually do two, one with the head and one with the heart.
The one driven by passion and love for the Boro usually sees us predicted to amass enough points for a probable Champions League slot, UEFA Cup at worst.
The sensible one sees us hovering above the relegation zone before finishing just below halfway.
Will this season be any different? Well I can't honestly make my mind up.
On the plus side we seem to have instilled more pace into the squad, but I can't decide for the life of me who will play and what formation we will use.
The major talking point is between the sticks. The whole season could be determined on how our keeper performs. One man does not make a team, but a keeper comes damn close.
The defence will perform a lot better if they have total confidence in the goalie. Nothing against the abilities of Ross or Brad but personally, like most Boro fans, I would like to have seen a top quality signing made in this position.
My worry now is that if things don't start well, some of the outstanding candidates have already been snapped up. Robinson and Carson have moved for pennies in comparison to many of the mega-million pound moves we have seen recently.
By the end of August, if we realise we are short in the keeping department, it will also mean we have not started well and will already be playing catch up. Let's hope that is not the case.
On a plus side, Gareth has accumulated a squad that has cover in every position.
This is ideal if the players are happy with that. George Boateng naturally wanted to be playing every week and so I imagine will everyone else. That leaves the gaffer with some major selection decisions.
As the injuries and suspensions kick in, he will need that squad but in the meantime I can't guess what his starting line up will be against Spurs. There are certainly going to be a few big money signings who are sat on the bench.
If we are going to progress then we certainly need to score more goals.
With pace on the flanks, we surely must create more chances and whilst not expecting eight each week, a cutting edge to our approach play is vital.
Whoever is chosen as the front pairing (although we may not be quite so ambitious away from home), it is certain that Alves is going to have to score regularly if we are going to be successful.
That is why my charity bet on Boro with William Hill this season in aid of The Great North Air Ambulance is for Afonso to be leading Premiership goal scorer.
My £25 each way at 40/1 represents not only good value, but also, along with the form of the keeper, will determine whether it's Europe or the relegation places we are focused on come May.
As you will have read in the Gazette, I have also made my close season transfer and will be on air throughout the season to listen to your views and share your misery or elation.
Let's think positively. I've done my predictions now so Europe here we come!!
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