The Last Word - Sports Blog (Sean Simara)

Arsenal If ever a season Arsene Wenger had to deliver it's now. The other top sides have changed their manager, he has the experience, they have the cash, debt free so what will Arsenal do this year? Not a lot I think. As of writing they don’t have Suarez they missed out on Higuian and have done nothing but get players out. If they do bring in a big name striker they could be knocking on the door of the title from a distance but I see another empty season for the Gunners & Wenger's reign could be done and dusted, like their trophy cabinet. Key Man - Santi Cazorla - He started last year pretty well, even some comparing him to Mata, some Gunners even thought he was better. He isn’t but he is a very creative player and if Arsenal do anything this year I imagine he will pull the strings. Aston Villa The Villa stayed up with ease in the end, it did look very ropey at times but Benteke's goals virtually kept them in the Premier League. Lambe...

Championship In one of the toughest leagues in the world to get out of, it looks like a burial ground of ex Premier League clubs. 18 of the 24 sides have played in the top flight and will be looking to get back to the promise land. The favourites, the richest and the ones that will be looking for an instant jump back is QPR. After gambling on the big names, big money deals and wages Rangers 2 year stay in the top flight ended in humiliating fashion last year. They need to go up first time of asking, as a lot of players are on silly money with years to go on their contracts. They can’t get them all out so promotion is the number one target for the west London money bags, no matter what the chairman says. They have done well to shift some of them out the door but a lot of players who let QPR down last year will still be around come kick off. A strong start will be vital so they can sake off the negative energy of last season. I expect Reading to be up near the top of the table, ther...