Barclays Premier League: Gus roots for blues
Despite pitching for Chelsea, Poyet says it’s a three-horse race this season with Manchester City the surprise package.
Dubai : Former Chelsea and Tottenham star Gus Poyet believes this season’s Barclays English Premier League looks set to be a three-way battle between Chelsea, Liverpool and reigning champions Manchester United.
“On paper at least, it looks to be a three-horse race,” said Poyet in a candid chat with XPRESS on the sidelines of Showtime’s Premiership coverage launch of the new season across the UAE.
The Uruguayan spent four memorable years at Stamford Bridge scoring 49 goals in 145 appearances. And like any true-blooded Chelsea fan, he is optimistic the Blues can emulate the successful era of Jose Mourinho under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.
“It’s up to Ancelotti to adapt quickly now. That’s unfortunately the problem these days with managers, they don’t get too much time. He has been with a top team like Milan for many years so he shouldn’t have a problem [dealing] with any of the Chelsea players. He has started off well winning the Community Shield. I know he’s going to get better and better so I’m quite confident,” he said.
Reds strong contenders
Poyet also believes Liverpool are another unit well equipped to win the title that has eluded them since 1990. “If you look at the top teams, Liverpool are the side who have changed the least. If they don’t lose [Javier] Mascherano and avoid that period of January-February last season where they had too many draws, it could be their year.”
However, Poyet says Manchester United remain the team to beat despite the loss of their most treasured jewel, Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid.
“They will depend a lot more on their whole team,” said Poyet who backed English striker Wayne Rooney to fill the void left by Ronaldo. “I think it will be good for Rooney personally. And if it will be good for him, it will be good for United.”
The other team from Manchester have also added plenty of firepower to their ranks and Poyet would be more than happy too see the Abu Dhabi-owned City challenge for a top-four spot.
“It would be very nice if they can push into the top four which has been the same for so many years,” he said.
