Jam-packed with last-minute winners, controversial decisions, mistimed challenges and 35 yard howitzers into the top corner. And that's just the opening weekend. The Premier League is unparalleled in its ability to serve up an equal platter of controversy and exquisite football to the fascinated masses. It speaks volumes about the addictiveness of the league, that the Germans are only just putting the celebratory champagne back in the fridge, with the Premier League audience having been engrossed in counting down the days until the curtains are pulled open for the opening day. A summer tournament can often be a nice sideshow, serving as a distraction for the lack of Premier League during the summer months. However, when those curtains draw back on the third week of August, all eyes are fixed on the newest multi-million signing from the continent, and that sprightly wonderkid touted to have a breakthrough year. Dark horses are predicted, relegation candidates are chosen, and a list of the most likely men to lose their jobs are drawn up - therein lies an unsavoury element of the Premier League close-season. What serves as the most palatable course for excited Premier League audiences are the opening-day shocks. The first day of the league season is the one and only time that each team begins on a level footing. Following three months of preparation, there are no excuses of 'lethargy' or 'tiredness' as each player gives their all for the cause. Promoted sides throw themselves into the opening game like it's an FA Cup final, and new signings stake their claim for a prolonged run in the side with hard-working debuts. Unknown quantities can prove to be a thorn in the side of the so-called elite, as Goliath takes a few hits. Don't be surprised if Everton struggle against a Leicester City side starved of Premier League action for the last decade, or if Jose comes unstuck at a vivacious Turf Moor on Monday.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
