Tony Pulis has worked miracles at the Britannia Stadium over the last three years guiding the Potters to the FA Cup final and into Europe during the last campaign. They’ve only managed to bring in the injury prone Jonathan Woodgate in from Tottenham this summer though. Whilst they have enough quality to stay up and hit mid-table comfortably they need to strengthen for Europe. Their squad isn’t exactly big enough to cope with the rigours of domestic and European completion and a few injuries or suspensions could see them hurtle down the table at an alarming rate. An opener against Chelsea isn’t the kind of way to start a season but they’ve already been in Europa League action so should be prepared.

Chelsea haven’t been very busy in the transfer market with last season’s squad seemingly impressing new boss Andre Villas-Boas. Big things are expected of the 33-year-old brought in from Porto at a cost of £13 million. He’ll need to stamp his authority on the squad from the get go and build up the confidence that was lacking at times last season. Getting Fernando Torres back on the goal trail is another problem facing the new coach with the Spaniard a pale imitation of his former self. If Villas-Boas can get off to a good start and make a play for the top spot early on then Chelsea could have a new Special One on their hands at Stamford Bridge.

Stoke will prove to be tough customers on the opening day but I believe Chelsea will want to start the season at a hundred miles an hour. They want the title back and no one is going to stand in their way.

Verdict 0-3

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