If you're attentive, you may have seen the HUGE Offside Bloggers Previews and Predictions post over at EPL Offside, and if you aren't, I'll explain. Jack of CFC Offside (that's what the kids call it nowadays, yes?) came up with the idea that all of the Premiership Offsiders get together through the magicks of the internet, and all predict the table come May. We all wrote a little bit to explain our prediction (some of us less than others, ahem), and Jack kindly sent me what everyone had to say about Bolton. When all of the predictions were averaged, Bolton came 12th, only one place behind where I put them. Not too shabby. Without further ado, I give you the opinions of my wonderful fellow Offsiders:
Martin, Arsenal Offside
Prediction: 8th
I know picking Bolton to finish 8th seems crazy, but every season there is one team that surprises everyone by finishing in the top half, and Owen Coyle is a good manager who’s had a full offseason to get some players in and get them playing his tactics. I think they will surprise people, and reward the Bolton fans who had to watch Megson’s teams the last few years.
Ed, Liverpool Offside
Prediction: 16th
Bolton: One of the more anonymous squads in the league will continue their slide down the table but once again stave off relegation.
Thad, Man City Offside
Prediction: 10th
We are now in the no man's land off the prediction table. Anyone who know how positions 10-16 or so will shake out is lying. I'm putting Bolton here because I like Owen Coyle, and Martin Petrov too.
Chris99, Spurs Offside
Prediction: 12th
The additions of Martin Petrov, Ivan Klasnic, and Robbie Blake strengthen an already strong mid-table team. Own Coyle brings a much more entertaining style of football to the table then Sam Allardyce and Gary Megson did. Petrov should shine under Coyle's tactical style.
Martin, West Ham Offside
No prediction.
Bolton – A couple of decent players signed for the new season, Marton Petrov for one should be great if he avoids injury. Owen Coyle has to start well or risk a relegation battle.
EDR, West Brom Offside
Prediction: 13th
Owen Coyle will probably continue his attempts to make Bolton more watchable and the signing of Martin Petrov will help ensure that the football is incisive as well as aesthetically pleasing.
Jack, Chelsea Offside
Prediction: 9th
Surprised? You shouldn't be. Wanderers have all the tools to be very effective, particularly at home, this season. Owen Coyle at the helm being the key. Coyle will view a fit Gary Cahill in the center of defense, who missed several months last season with a blood clot, a massive boost. The winger Martin Petrov on a bossman is potentially the transfer of the summer. Don't forget Kevin Davies punching your mother, either.