I’m doing pretty good with these predictions save Arsenal and Tottenham – who are well on their way up the table though.

I’m thinking that Right wing is just up for grabs. You can throw out Pennant, Mascherano, Babel, Benayoun or anyone to fill that spot. They’ll let Kewell play out on the other side, but then it’s just a tossup as to who they put on the right. The rest of the lineup is pretty well set, and Babel can have his fight for a spot upfront, but he will be 4th in a pecking order behind Kuyt, Torres and Crouch.

As the season plays out and players start making an impact, you will see more consistency in the lineup, but I think Rafa will take some chances moving players around in different positions to start to see where they will fit in better.

mascherano at right mid is more of what i would want to see? yes, he’s a def mid, but at corinthians the man played well out there. clearly, the choice is pennant..and sorry for puttin’ that up there, offending all Liverpool masses represented by you. or even Babel could play out there.

not gonna see darby is my guess…maybe a couple early league cup games. i followed liverpool last year – arbeloa was half decent. but you’re right i am not speaking from a supporter’s p.o.v. instead i am going by friendly results, last season, money spent, and an albeit warbled imagination. but thanks for keepin’ me honest.

as far as Pompey goes, maybe i am laughing – i like laughing. under-rated and if they do shit this year, i will take the heat. gladly.

Portsmouth 5th? You are having a laugh.