How our Rivals are doing?

As we come closer to the end of July, I would like to compare our progress against our rivals and how they have been fairing in this transfer market and pre-season. As I've written about the boredom of July, things have changed just a bit. As most a Villa fan I believe that our rivals for next season, or the team that we will be more likely competing against are: Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool and Everton.

Everton are a team that I believe will cause a threat to us for finishing in the top 4 or even to maintain 6th place. Everton haven't been busy in the transfer market but have signed one player Jermaine Beckford. Possibly the bargain of the season, a free agent from Leeds United. Everton have the players to put up a fight against us and the teams around us. Everton have enjoyed a trip to Australia for pre-season.

Liverpool have been the excitement of the week, signing two players. Joe Cole has decided to join Liverpool ahead of Tottenham and they will cause a threat to us, as Gerrard will stay. They have also brought in Danny Wilson and Milan Jovanovic. Despite having financial problems they have managed to sign three players and only spend 2 million. Currently enjoying pre-season in Switzerland ahead of the Europa League qualifier.

Manchester City, were can I begin. The busiest club in the transfer window, buying Yaya Toure, Jerome Boateng and David Silva. Have spend 70 million on transfers and haven't given up on signing James Milner as yesterday Martin O'Neil indicated that he would like to leave. They are defiantly going to be title contenders but after there 5th place finish, anything can happen within the team or a problem will arise causing Man City to have a difficult season.

Tottenham are the team that broke into the top 4. And have only signed one player so far Sandro for 8 million. They are expected to buy more talent, but after missing out on Joe Cole and Fabiano. There's a good chance that they wont be able to hold on to a Champions League spot. I think that Tottenham are still one of the best teams currently, but its not impossible to catch up to Tottenham.

Aston Villa have had a rather disappointing July so far. No signing so far and the only real headline is that James Milner wants to leave Villa. We did beat Peterborough 3-2 in pre-season, but as O'Neil needs funds only after selling Milner will we see new faces at the club. Currently in Ireland, training for Saturday's game against Bohemians.

I'm sure that things will turn around in time for the new Premier League season.

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