Attack
Liverpool have shown in the last few matches of 2013 that we do not rely on a strong traditional striker, I think it is a certainty that there will be at least one strong forward joining, probably Costa, and that will IMO give Liverpool strong and varied options in attack.
Arsenal need a top striker, but they seem to have all their eggs in the Suarez basket) that much is clear. They look the weakest of these 3 squads in comparison. Spurs will be relying on Soldado to be an instant hit, Adebayor can not lead the line all season alone, he’s not that good, so will Soldado be a hit or miss ? For a Bale-less Spurs that is probably the key to their season.
Midfield
This is where Arsenal have an embarrassment of riches and have been relying on their contribution to add to their goal tally, with some success. However without Wilshere they do tend to struggle. Spurs lack creativity in their midfield and will be relying on Holtby to instill some fire and Sigursson to improve on last season’s form and live up to the hype. Liverpool have some quality players – if they perform to their potential and Henderson continues his dramatic improvement and Lucas returns to his best. Lots of ‘ifs, buts and maybes’ there.
Defence
Arsenal really should be shoring up their defence rather than paying nig money for Suarez. It looks clearly to be the weakest in depth of these 3 squads. Spurs have an experienced defence with some sound players and an exceptional FB in Walker.
Keepers
Whilst Liverpool look to have secured the strongest keeper of the 6 they will need to keep him fit as in their reserve keeper is reliable but not as strong as their competitors.
Conclusions
I’ve assumed that Bale and Parker will leave Spurs. Also Skrtel, Assaidi and Downing to leave Liverpool if they don’t it just strengthens the squad further.
At Liverpool there looks to be more flexibility, creativity and rotation of players across the forward line than at either Arsenal or Spurs, and we have seen in the second half of last season how this can be beneficial.
Despite the potential loss of Suarez (which may now not happen and hence he has been reinstalled to the squad) the Liverpool team looks well balanced (maybe even better balanced than their immediate competitors) with lots of options. Those 3 bolded potential recruitments are key though and their arrival could spur the confidence needed after the Suarez debacle. IMHO by far the most important of those potential signings is Papa.
Arsenal in comparison look weaker in attack than they should be as none of their current strike force are consistent or strike fear by reputation alone, and their defence is surely cause for some concern.
Spurs really look like they will need to spend that huge cheque from RM to replace Bale – in a number of positions. With central defence, a winger and another attacker key.
None of these teams look capable of breaking into the Top 3, so it is between them for 4th. If Liverpool can continue their progression and secure their targets before the transfer window closes they can still challenge strongly for 4th.
