Key events
John Brewin
Silva requires his Fulham team to continue to reflect his own image – flinty, willing to take risks and the game to opponents – to achieve ambitions that seem outwardly modest but reflect the reality of the club’s situation.
Fulham will likely be battling it out at the other end of the table. Our writers have predicted a 15th place finish. Read John Brewin’s preview below.
Krishnamoorthy isn’t quite as optimistic as ten Hag:
“Tonight’s game is the ONLY chance for United to top the table at least for 13 odd hours. Hope they do not blow it but oh we are talking about United who needs no opposition to disintegrate.”
Here’s Kevin Fletcher’s take on Ruud van Nistelrooy’s appointment as Manchester United’s assistant manager:
“Has the great man been brought in to learn the new football chiefs [sic] ideas so next season he can step up to the big job?”
Jamie Jackson
Erik ten Hag and Sir Jim Ratcliffe have been careful to state time is required for Manchester United to enjoy serial days of glory again and after the team finished a record Premier League low of eighth place last season you can understand their logic. But, privately, each may fancy their chances of being dark horse contenders, at least for a respectable chunk of the championship race.
Our writers have tipped Manchester United to finish 5th. Read Jamie Jackson’s full Premier League preview below.
Will Unwin
United begin their campaign at home to Fulham on Friday night with Ten Hag looking to improve on their worst Premier League finish. “We also won two trophies, which gave us belief that we are capable of winning,” Ten Hag said when asked if they can use last season’s league disappointment as motivation.
The Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is pretty excited. He said his side “want to win every competition in which we are taking part, definitely also the Premier League.” Read the full story from Will Unwin below.
And on a Friday? Well, I guess that’s how it is these days. How excited are you for the new season?
To quote that Premier League advert: “it’s a bit much innit?” We’ve barely had a break from football thanks to the Euros and the Olympics. Yet, the Premier League is back … already.
It’s the Premier League!
Preamble
Hello and welcome to this football live blog.
The Premier League is back!
It’s time to take off your England shirt and take down your Union Jack after the Euros and Olympics. Now’s your chance to dig out your team’s scarf and embrace the Premier League tribalism again.
It’s a new season so expect new signings, new managers and the same start of season tension you feel every year.
We’re kicking off with Manchester United v Fulham at 8pm. Email me with your thoughts and keep refreshing this page for updates.
Olivia Martin is a dedicated sports journalist based in the UK. With a passion for various athletic disciplines, she covers everything from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis.
