Do you agree with our selections? Who else deserves a mention? Have your say in the comments section below. And see our pre-season list of the seven star signings who we thought would rock the Premier League.

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Not the likes of Curtis Davies or Gabriel Agbonlahor, who received their maiden England call-ups (but surely not their last). Not even the likes of Ashley Young or Jermaine Jenas, who are two of the in-form players in the Premier League right now. It wasn’t even the seasoned internationals such as Steven Gerrard or Wayne Rooney who were getting the headlines. No, it was a man who wasn’t even named in the thirty man preliminary party who had every tongue in the country wagging.

And not for the first time either. Since he was first named in an England squad in 1996 by Glenn Hoddle, David Beckham has attracted the most incredible and sustained publicity imaginable for the England squad. He is unique in world football as a player who dominates both the front and back pages of newspapers, whether it is for his football, his fashion or his seemingly endless commercial work.

Indeed, the nation right now could realistically be split into two camps. Those who respect Beckham for the footballer and professional that he is, and those who resent the corporate cash cow that he has become.

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A year after signing for Blackburn for under 4m euros, Chelsea must now be regretting a missed opportunity to sign the 29-year-old, who has shone in the Premier League, guiding his side into the Uefa Cup once again along with a journey to the FA Cup semis. McCarthy scored 24 goals last campaign – 18 in the league – including six in the last seven matches of the season as Blackburn battled on three fronts. The departure of Craig Bellamy ought to have stopped Rovers’ impressive progress in its tracks, but instead his exit seeped out of the supporters’ memory vaults quicker than a swing of a golf club.

Blackburn’s previous heavy-handedness, from the early days of Mark Hughes’ reign, has long been gone from their game, despite the insistence of the media that it remains. A reputation that has proven hard to drop, but as Hughes’ side continue to over-perform and confound the critics, more have come to admire Blackburn’s tenacity and verve. The likes of Tugay, David Bentley and Morten Gamst Pedersen, who light-up the midfield with their creativity, ensure entertaining, and eminently watchable football at Ewood Park. Hughes’ well-rounded squad has few weak spots in the starting eleven – from the experienced Brad Friedel in goal to the mammoth Ryan Nelsen in defence via tough man Robbie Savage in the middle. However, it is McCarthy taking all the plaudits.

Chased by Liverpool and Chelsea ever since he won the Champions League with Porto in 2004, Blackburn was a startling choice of move when the Portuguese club finally dispensed with McCarthy after the player made it patently clear he wanted out. He had accumulated 57 goals in 129 matches – his best ratio since spending a year at Ajax in 1998/9 when he netted 21 in 36 games – and played a key role in the club’s marvellous continental triumph. Not only did he score twice against Manchester United while also setting up the last-gasp equaliser at Old Trafford in the first knockout round victory, McCarthy managed four goals in eight Champions League starts.
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Liverpool and Arsenal lead the table after victories against Derby and Portsmouth respectively, the Reds hammering Billy Davies’ Rams side 6-0 with Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso scoring twice apiece as Liverpool indicated for the first time in a long, long time that they will sustain a challenge for the league. Arsenal recorded their most convincing victory of the campaign, 3-1 winners against Portsmouth, and despite the lack of transfer activity and departure of Henry, Arsène Wenger’s side also appear ready to contest for the title. While Liverpool and Arsenal have ten points after four matches, Chelsea stayed on that number following their fifth game and first defeat of the season. They fell to a 2-0 defeat against an impressive Aston Villa side with Zat Knight doing more than he did in eight years at Fulham by scoring the opener and keeping a clean sheet.

Everton also lie on ten points after Joleon Lescott netted in the 90th minute to give David Moyes’ outfit a 2-1 victory at struggling Bolton, who now reside in 19th position. The most exciting game of the weekend came from Craven Cottage as Tottenham threw away a 3-1 lead with 12 minutes remaining to draw against Fulham, Diomansy Kamara netting a brilliant overhead kick in the final minute to ensure the points were shared, although the visitors dominated throughout. Martin Jol’s position as coach has become even more precarious. Manchester United beat Sunderland by a single goal from Louis Saha as they continued to flounder in front of goal, and there were wins for Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Blackburn and West Ham too. Reading, after losing 3-0 at home to the Hammers, lie in the relegation zone and second season syndrome is hitting them hard.

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West Ham continued their slow start to the new season with a tame 1-1 draw with third-placed Wigan, as Chris Hutchings continues to prove his critics wrong. Bolton also got off the mark by hammering Reading, and there were wins for Aston Villa and Birmingham while a draw was played out at Goodison Park between Everton and Blackburn as Roque Santa Cruz continued to impress for the visitors. Sam Allardyce says he wants to bring in new faces before the transfer window closes on Friday after watching another draw for his Newcastle side. A visit to the Riverside saw them lead twice only to allow Middlesbrough to level almost immediately on both occasions.

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Defending champions Manchester United already have a big mountain to climb if they are to retain their crown after falling 1-0 at Manchester City, thanks to a Geovanni effort. United dominated but lacked a cutting edge, leaving them on just two points after three matches having scored only one goal in that period and they lie five points off favourites Chelsea, who benefited from a stroke of luck to earn a 1-1 draw at Anfield against Liverpool. Fernando Torres scored a brilliant opener, but Frank Lampard levelled when referee Rob Styles incorrectly ruled that Florent Malouda had been fouled in the box. Both sides remain unbeaten and look set to battle it out for top spot over the next few months, especially after Arsenal failed to take advantage of their rivals’ results. A 1-1 draw at Blackburn offered little indication that the Gunners would compete any better this season than they did in the last.
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Portsmouth v Bolton (1245 UK)
A relegation struggle is looming for Sammy Lee’s Bolton after defeats to Newcastle and Fulham, but while their own defence is struggling, they face a Portsmouth side potentially without Sol Campbell, Noe Pamarot, Gary O’Neil, Dejan Stefanovic and Lauren, while Sulley Muntari’s suspension could leave Harry Redknapp with just 16 senior players.

It already seems imperative that Bolton take at least a point from this encounter as Lee struggles to work his 4-4-2 formation, a change from Sam Allardyce’s successful 4-3-3 tactic. Portsmouth’s half-time adjustments versus Manchester United triggered a much-improved performance, which gained them their second point of the season, and eyes will be on goalscorer Benjani and expensive new striker signing David Nugent to provide the impetus.

Prediction: 1-1

Birmingham v West Ham
An early relegation ‘six-pointer’ against Sunderland yielded only one point following a stoppage time equaliser from old boy Stern John and while their fellow promoted club have picked up four points, Steve Bruce’s side look set for a difficult campaign. They will have midfielder Olivier Kapo and central defender Johan Djourou back, and after West Ham’s sluggish start to the new campaign, there is hope and expectation that Birmingham will pick up their first victory.

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The fact they all arrived or have previously played for European clubs, rather than rolling up directly from South America, clearly assisted them but their adaptability and impact was impressive nonetheless. Geovanni secured Manchester City’s notable victory over West Ham, Roque Santa Cruz, more remarkably, surfaced from the substitutes’ bench and delivered a very English-style header to set Blackburn on the way to three points and Claudio Pizarro rescued Chelsea from a shock defeat at the hands of Birmingham.

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Footballing World picks out seven of the most exciting deals to be completed; seven stars who will shake up the Premier League.

Fernando Torres (Liverpool)

A huge price tag does not detract from the talent of Torres, a striker with immense potential and forever linked with a major club before Liverpool finally came up with the necessary cash. The club’s greatest problem in their bid to win a league title has been a lack of goals, deriving from a missing hitman up front. Torres has arrived to fill the void.

The strongest Liverpool squad since Rafa Benítez landed in England will abet Torres’s progress, providing him with the chances he needs to notch up more than 20 goals next season. Third favourites for the title, the Reds’ challenge depends much on the success of the 23-year-old Spaniard and whether he can adjust to the ruthlessness of the Premier League swiftly. Immediate adaptation and goals galore could lead Liverpool to the title and make Torres a hero on Merseyside.

Nani (Manchester United)

Sir Alex Ferguson’s eye for talent brought Nani to the club, and the Portuguese has the ability to emulate the success of compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo. Ferguson has groomed the latter into one the best players in the world and Nani is expected to follow suit. A left-sided winger, the 20-year-old is the obvious replacement for Ryan Giggs, and Nani undoubtedly has the nimble feet and shrewdness to replace the Welsh wizard.

Manchester United appear to have made a steal from under the noses of Europe’s top clubs – all of whom could have found a place for Nani in their side – and the signing might just ensure United have an advantage in European competition over the coming years. Certainly, the idea of Nani on the left and Ronaldo on the right playing in tandem is one that wets the appetite for United supporters; fear and loathing from opponents and rivals.

Eduardo Da Silva (Arsenal)

Wenger’s decision to sell Thierry Henry stirred up debate, as did the news that Da Silva would be replacing him. The Brazil-born Croatian international scored for fun at previous club Dynamo Zagreb – 73 times in 98 games – but was a relative unknown in England when Arsenal snapped him up for half of what they received for Henry.

Da Silva is perhaps more predatory and clinical than Henry; a genuine striker in the mould of a Ruud van Nistelrooy who can at last fulfil Wenger’s desire for a “fox in the box” after past attempts failed miserably. With pace to burn and his best years to come, Da Silva might end the supporters’ frustrations at the side’s profligacy in front of goal while ensuring Arsenal’s vast potential is met, eventually.

Florent Malouda (Chelsea)

The player of the year in France chose Chelsea ahead of Liverpool and a host of Italian sides and his goal in the Community Shield showpiece demonstrated why José Mourinho opted to splash the cash on the Frenchman. Malouda will occupy the left-wing position, offering Chelsea far more width than last season, using his pace to surge past defenders and touch to deliver pinpoint crosses for teammates while also chipping in with goals.

Malouda, 27, has been the backbone of Lyon’s incredible domestic successes over four years and rose to prominence at the World Cup last year. Unlike many other signings from the continent this summer, Malouda will not need time to adjust to the Premier League and he has the suitable facets to sparkle in England and deliver the league title back to West London.

Elano (Manchester City)

The Brazilian’s surname is ‘Blumer’ and it is an apt description of Elano’s career thus far. He led an undistinguished career in his home country before making a name for himself in Ukraine for Shakhtar Donetsk, by which time he was 24. So impressive was he that new Brazil coach Dunga called him up to the national set up in August 2006 – becoming the first player in Ukraine to play for the country – and the coach’s gamble paid off a month later when Elano netted twice in an accomplished performance against Argentina in a thumping 3-0 friendly victory.

Now an integral part of the Brazil set-up – he played in the Copa América final – the 26-year-old midfielder could be Manchester City’s leading light this season as new manager Sven-Göran Eriksson attempts to lead them into the Uefa Cup. Of all City’s signings, Elano possesses the most quality and he might have the extra bit of class and flair necessary for any side chasing a top six place.

Roque Santa Cruz (Blackburn Rovers)

Not as high-profile and costly as others on this list, but Mark Hughes did good business in persuading Santa Cruz to come to Uefa Cup-bound Blackburn. Glimpses of brilliance during a frustrating time at Bayern Munich indicate the Paraguayan has what it takes to make it in the Premier League and alongside the irresistible Benni McCarthy Blackburn will have a strike force to be feared both in England and on the continent.

At 20, Santa Cruz scored three times in just seven Champions League starts, and his ability to play alongside and score against some of Europe’s leading teams stands him in good stead for a new challenge as Blackburn eye a top six finish. Hughes is also aiming for Uefa Cup glory – and Santa Cruz, at 6′2″ and with previous European experience, may well excel and explode on such a platform and bring Blackburn unanticipated silverware.

Carlos Tévez (Manchester United)

After all the legal wrangling, Manchester United finally got their man. The league champions rejected Tévez a year ago but after a stunning run with West Ham, they fought off clubs from Spain and Italy to land the Argentine’s signature. A fantastic work-rate, immense skill and lethal shot obtained Sir Alex Ferguson’s attention and United could ultimately pay more than £25m to sign Tévez on a permanent deal.

The 23-year-old single-handedly saved the Hammers from relegation last season and he since has earned the promotion MSI had planned for back in August last year. Tévez will be expected to fire in 20 goals while leading the front line as Manchester United aim to retain their league crown and he will also have a first bite at the Champions League – the trophy Ferguson has made clear is top priority. Having acquired Tévez for peanuts on a two-year loan deal, it could prove one of the manager’s best bits of business during his long and distinguished reign. The striker is expected to cut the over-reliance on goals from midfield, especially from the twinkle-toed Cristiano Ronaldo, in a season where optimists believe three major trophies are possible. The success or not of Tévez might be crucial in determining whether United recapture the Premier League title as Chelsea and Liverpool bay for their blood.

Which player will make the most impace this season? Share your views by leaving a comment below.

Arsenal
There’s little chance of Arsène Wenger’s side winning the Premier League, so it’s down to the Champions League to make something of the Gunners’ season. However, the departure of Thierry Henry and lack of a comparable replacement makes success on the continent difficult to envisage. Wenger’s future is unresolved and the team lacks direction as a result, meaning success in the domestic cups might be as good as it gets though medium term prospects are excellent.
Prediction: 4th

Aston Villa
New American owner Randy Lerner has not delivered the anticipated revolution to Villa Park, and the close season has brought in just two familiar names both from West Ham. Too many draws last season ensured the Martin O’Neill miracle failed to transpire – for once – and his squad still looks far too thin for European push. Without a major overhaul, Villa look set to continue to mingle with mediocrity and mid-table finishes.
Prediction: 12th

PREDICTION TABLE 1 Chelsea 2 Liverpool 3 Manchester United 4 Arsenal 5 Tottenham 6 Newcastle 7 Portsmouth 8 Everton 9 Manchester City 10 Blackburn 11 West Ham 12 Aston Villa 13 Reading 14 Bolton 15 Fulham 16 Middlesbrough 17 Birmingham 18 Sunderland 19 Wigan 20 Derby

Birmingham
Steve Bruce’s side exited the top-flight following a terrifically dull season of mundane football, but now the former Manchester United defender is expected to steady the Birmingham ship and rebuild their status as an established Premier league club. And of the promoted clubs, Birmingham appear to have the most capable squad. The likes of Garry O’Connor, Olivier Kapo, Daniel de Ridder and Franck Queudrue have all arrived, complementing present talent such as Larsson, McSheffrey, Jerome, Forssell and Jaidi. Don’t suppose that attacking football will be served up, but Birmingham have invested considerably in order to avoid the drop and they have the means to reach 40 points.
Prediction: 17th

Blackburn Rovers
Mark Hughes has done a tremendous job at Rovers and there is no sign of any slip-up just yet. An FA Cup semi-final and promising progress in the Uefa Cup were the highlights from last season, and a late surge in the league earned Blackburn an Intertoto Cup place, meaning another season of Uefa Cup football is imminent. The astute signing of Roque Santa Cruz has strengthened their front line and an accomplished squad containing Pedersen, McCarthy, Bentley and Savage is again set to compete for a position inside the top six, though their bid may be hampered by the focus on cup competitions.
Prediction: 10th

Bolton Wanderers
Sam Allardyce was the driving force behind Bolton’s unlikely recent successes, but his departure means the club will struggle to overachieve again. Sammy Lee has little managerial experience and didn’t impress at the end of last season, but he has brought in a host of new players, stamping his own authority over the squad, and can rely on Allardyce players like Diouf, Campo, Nolan, Jaaskelainen and Anelka. Regular scalps of the top four and top six finishes may be off the cards for next season at least, but Lee has enough quality at his disposal for a comfortable mid-table climax.
Prediction: 14th

Chelsea
For the first time in five years, it has been a relatively sensible summer at Stamford Bridge – no galacticos, no rifts, and no lack of concentration on the season’s objectives. A hat-trick of free transfers can do no harm and Jose Mourinho beat Liverpool to the signing of French international Florent Malouda. The pressure this campaign is on Manchester United, not Chelsea, and Mourinho’s side will revel in their underdog status, especially with much expected of the other contender, free-spending Liverpool. A great work ethic and unprecedented desire to succeed and avenge last year’s demons stands Chelsea in good stead to recapture the Premier League crown from their Manchester foes.
Prediction: 1st

Derby
Unsurprisingly, the Rams are favourites for the drop having failed to lure much in the way of Premier League talent. Billy Davies paid a mammoth £3.5m for Robert Earnshaw – unimpressive for Norwich when they were in the top-flight – while Andy Todd and Andy Griffin will bring some experience to the back line. A few notable players, such as Barnes, Howard and Fagan, may save Derby from embarrassment but at a time when even relegation contenders are spending big, the club’s frugality will surely cost them.
Prediction: 20th

Everton
The yo-yo club of the Premier League, Everton have again reacted to qualifying for Europe by failing to strengthen their squad substantially. Phil Jagielka arrived early on for £4m, but David Moyes has been frustrated since by inflated transfer fees though seems ready to spend £5m on Leighton Baines and has bid £11m for the dexterous Lucho Gonzalez. With the existing squad, success on two fronts – in the league and Uefa Cup – looks improbable so progress on the continent could compromise the chase for another top six finish.
Prediction: 8th

Fulham
It would ironic if new manager Lawrie Sanchez, who has spent as much this summer as predecessor Chris Coleman did in four years, fails to match the Welsh rookie’s relatively good performance, but in spending more than £20m on untested Premier League players, a season of struggle seemingly awaits. Sanchez himself is distrusted by the majority of Fulham fans and the pre-season matches have witnessed a tentative and directionless side. Such expenditure ought to ensure relegation is off the agenda, but the West Londoners seem set to spend the next ten months endeavouring to reach the golden 40-point mark.
Prediction: 15th

Liverpool
A year ago, a frightening number of pundits predicted Liverpool would win the league but that dream soon evaporated on the back of continuing poor away form and results against their immediate rivals. The same prediction now would have far more substance following Rafa Benítez’s spending spree, which included bringing in Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel, but are Liverpool ready to flatter to deceive once again? Their lack of consistency has cost them in recent years but with such significant investment this time around, pressure is on Benítez to succeed away from cup competitions. An immensely talented squad must perform, and with constancy, if Liverpool are to keep pace with Manchester United and Chelsea.
Prediction: 2nd

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