Premier League Preview: Chelsea

The return of Jose Mourinho to Stamford Bridge has seen Chelsea become the Bookmakers favourites for the title. The newly Christened 'Happy One', has a squad full of quality and will certainly be challenging for the title but with Manchester City purchasing big name players and Manchester United losing none of their title-winning team from last year it is by no means a one horse race.

Chelsea have strengthened their squad with plenty of youngsters, most notably Andre Shurrle from Bayer Leverkusen but it is their pending transfer of Wayne Rooney which will certainly catch the eye if it goes through. Despite having two bids rejected, it is thought that Rooney wants to leave Old Trafford and there is still the possibility that this deal could go through. If it does, I think it is hard to see Chelsea not winning the title this year.

Last year Chelsea's year was disturbed by the sacking of Di Matteo and their successful Europa League campaign. With Mourinho back and order seemingly restored after an extremely successful pre-season, Chelsea will definitely be challenging for the title, and with the right squad rotation and man management it seems hard to see them not winning it
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Key Player: Juan Mata - The starlet of a creative midfield, Chelsea will once again be looking to their playmaker to dictate play as well as score goals. The clever Spaniard was sometimes overlooked by Rafael Benitez last season but is without a doubt Chelsea's best player and deserves to start regularly due to his quick feet and mental prowess.

One to Watch: Romelu Lukaku - A number of players to keep an eye on including Brazilian star Oscar and the return of Michael Essien but after a fantastic season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, Lukaku will now be looking to establish himself at Chelsea. With Torres and Ba both struggling for form Lukaku could easily force his way into the team and with a whole host of creative players behind him and his power and presense up front he could certainly maintain a regular starting role.

Best Summer Signing: Mark Schwarzer - A surprising choice for some but with Thibaut Courtois on loan for another season and Ross Turnbull's departure to Doncaster in the summer Chelsea were lacking in a quality second keeper. Now, should Petr Cech get injured at any point, Chelsea fans will be safe with the knowledge that Hilario will not be given the responsibility.

Last Season: 3rd

Pre-Season Prediction: 1st - Mourinho's Chelsea will gather momentum as the season progresses and edge out the two Manchester clubs for the title.