Can Chelsea get off to the perfect start under Lampard?
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New Chelsea boss Frank Lampard’s first league game in charge is a mouthwatering clash at Manchester United on Sunday 11 August.
Will the Blues get the new boss off to a winning start? It’ll be an early sign of how Chelsea are likely to fare without talisman Eden Hazard, who has of course left for Real Madrid.
The season will get under way on the Friday evening, when Liverpool will be at home to newly promoted Norwich City.
The Reds, fresh from their Champions League triumph, will be strong favourites to pick up the three points.
So too will defending Premier League champions Manchester City, who will begin the defence of their crown the following day, away to West Ham.
The Hammers had their moments last season and will be hoping to continue that momentum. But they certainly face the toughest of starts.
Another promoted side, Sheffield United, start away at Bournemouth.
The Blades have certainly been active in the transfer market, picking up Luke Freeman from QPR among others.
And another player might have left west London for Sheffield by the time the campaign gets started.
The Blades remain keen on Brentford striker Neal Maupay, although the Bees are holding out for at least £20m.
Maupay is also wanted by Aston Villa, who will begin their season with a tricky away assignment against Tottenham.
Spurs will obviously be big favourites for that one, but don’t rule out a shock. Villa have strengthened their squad since their promotion from the Championship and will be no pushovers.
Meanwhile, Newcastle will host Arsenal and new Magpies boss Steve Bruce certainly needs a good start to his reign, with many fans more than unhappy at the decision to appoint him as the replacement for the departed Rafa Benitez.
Benitez was a popular figure among supporters at St James’ Park and there will be no honeymoon period for Bruce, who needs results fast.
Elsewhere, Burnley host Southampton, Crystal Palace are home to Everton, Watford entertain Brighton and Wolves visit Leicester.
