We finished 5th last year and have improved the squad. Not sure what the issue is really.
United have bought a kid, one that now has huge expectation. The bought a declining talent, and complemented him with a fabulous player in Schneiderlin but overall still have glaring weaknesses. Chelsea have a whole host of internal issues it seems and are way off the pace, like us for now. Woolwich just bought a keeper and although he is class, they are putting a huge risk on their squad; a squad that won a cup but didn't compete in the league.
Liverpool have spent silly money again, and I am quite confident that they will flounder 6th or 7th, or in that region.
Everton will not challenge the top 6 at all, neither will Southampton. Palace are evolving but they do not have the depth. The biggest threat to our position this year is Swansea, who I think will be in the top 6 for sure this year.
City will win the league, by some distance this season if early form and intent is anything to go by.
I'm quite happy to finish 5-7th, keeping the manager and allowing for some consistency. If we finish the season in that region, whilst a decent cup run here or there, whilst gelling as a unit and playing some good football, wouldn't you be happy?
If we play good football and come 12th with a good cup run I would be happy.
But we won't play good football.
We will be lucky to finish 9th whilst playing the shittest football I've ever had the displeasure of seeing at the lane.
All your comments are based on the hope that other teams fail. Even if they do it means we have to play well. I just don't see either scenario likely I'm afraid.