The big kick-off

For many fans, the long summer wait is finally over as the Premier League returns with a bang this weekend.

With new managers at Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City and the Luis Suarez, Gareth Bale and Wayne Rooney transfer sagas rumbling on, there’s plenty for fans to get their teeth into.

Former West Ham player Clyde Best can’t wait to get stuck into the action again — and he’s predicting Jose Mourinho will be lifting the title at Stamford Bridge at the end of this campaign.

The Bermuda legend told the Sun: “You have to put United into contention but we have to see how they will function without Fergie and with David Moyes in charge.

“The Special One is back at Chelsea and he makes things happen, you only have to look at his record.

“So there’s Chelsea and United for me, and I’d probably throw in City as well. They’ve spent big as in the past, but it takes players time to adjust to the pace of the game in England.

“But if I had to pick one I’d go for Chelsea, because of the Special One. The players love him and I’m sure John Terry will love it as well. He’ll probably get his place back!

“I think all the teams coming up will find it difficult — Hull, Crystal Palace and Cardiff. As long as my team West Ham don’t struggle then that’s okay by me!

“Surprise packages? West Brom, who have done well, and Southampton, who have spent big money. Also Everton, they’ve got a good new manager in Roberto Martinez who did well at Wigan. 

“He’s now working with better players which makes things easier and he’s proved he can coach at that level.”

Check out our preview and predictions of all the opening-weekend fixtures as well as details on how to enter our Fantasy Football competition on page 45.