Shifty's Season Review Part 3

Fulham
What I Said: Mid-table obscurity, 1 or 2 more reinforcements may be required in order to compete in the Premier League and Europa League- Bobby Zamora hast to improve on last season's tally of 2 league goals
What Actually Happened: 12th counts as mid-table obscurity I guess. They didn't half compete in the Europa League, though, making it all the way to the final. Zamora's improvement brought him to the verges of the England squad

Hull City
What I Said: They will need to start in a similar manner to last season if they are to survive- it will be fascinating to see how US striker Jozy Altidore adapts to the Premier League. Phil Brown will need to demonstrate all his managerial skills in order to keep the Tigers roaring in the Premier League
What Actually Happened: Went down not roaring, but with something of a whimper. Brown "relieved of his duties" in February, replaced by Elephant Man Iain Dowie. How did Altidore get on? 1 league goal, 1 red card

Liverpool
What I Said: There is an over-riding feeling that last season was their best chance to win the league in many years. And they blew it. Now with Xabi Alonso departed, and doubts over the strength in depth in attack, if injuries affect Torres and Gerrard, they could lose touch with the lead
What Actually Happened: 7th place is most definitely out of touch with the lead. By all accounts, a dreadful season for the bin dippers. A revamp of the squad appears necessary, regardless of who the manager is come August

Manchester City
What I Said: They have spent money as if it is going out of fashion, although their bid for the Death Star looks likely to fail. If Mark Hughes can get his team set up the way he wants, then anywhere from 7th upwards should be considered a success
What Actually Happened: Finished 5th. Lost 3 derbies in injury time. Hughes got the sack just before Christmas, for falling short of the club's stated projected points tally of 70. Lost 3 derbies in injury time. Brought in Roberto Mancini, who seemed awfully keen on playing 3 defensive midfielders. Lost 3 derbies in injury time. Ended the season on 67 points. Did I mention that they lost 3 derbies in injury time?