I fancy Chelsea, but Spurs will trail again
As a former darling of White Hart Lane, Chris Waddle is well placed to judge whether Tottenham are ready to break the iron grip of the Premier League’s big four.
But on the eve of the new top-flight season, the former England winger has a stark warning for Spurs boss Juande Ramos.
Waddle believes big-spending Tottenham will struggle to make the top eight, but says Chelsea will push Manchester United all the way and Arsenal could upset the favourites.
“If they ride their luck I think that they could finish top eight or top six, but they would have to defend very well,” said Waddle of Tottenham.
“They need a Vieira or a Makelele – I still think they haven’t found a presence in the middle of the park. Until they sign a quality, top-drawer midfield player they’ll conceded a lot of goals, even though they create a lot.”
Chelsea were runners-up last year in three competitions, but Waddle believes new manager Luiz Felipe Scolari and some astute signings will bring success by next May.
“I’ve always thought Chelsea play economical football and it’ll be interesting to see if they go for the jugular more,” Waddle told City PM
“Scolari’s Portugal were very attack minded and I’d like to see Chelsea play like that. They have got some good additions. Bosingwa is good and Deco is a cute, clever player who can unlock doors.
“Chelsea will be right there. They have a lot of players who have still got a lot to prove, and they’ll be wanting to lift a trophy.”
Arsenal set the pace last season before crumbling in the home straight, but Waddle believes his former north London rivals are not to be underestimated.
“You can’t bet against Arsenal,” said Waddle. “Adebayor is staying. Whether the fans agree or whatever, he is good for Arsenal. They are capable of winning the lot – winning the league and doing well – because of the way they play”