Premier League Preview: Norwich

Norwich are my dark horse for this season. I'm not quite sure how they will perform but their summer spending has certainly given them the potential to shoot up the table. Last year Chris Hughton's side were never fully dragged into the relegation scrap, but still only finished eight points clear of the drop, and he will be looking to better that this year.

Norwich have spent plenty of money during this transfer window but it has all been very wise. Two European standard strikers in the form of Ricky Van Wolfswinkel and Gary Hooper have been brought in to replace the loss of Grant Holt to Wigan. Leroy Fer will also provide some support in central midfield whilst the permanent signing of Javier Garrido, on loan last season, and Martin Olsson from Blackburn will boost their defence. Lastly, they have signed young English winger Nathan Redmond from Birmingham, an interesting prospect and, if treated right, a star for the future. Whilst also shifting plenty of fringe players, Norwich have really created a squad littered with quality.

With their several new signings it will no doubt take a while for the squad to find the right blend. However, if players like Van Wolfswinkel and Hooper are able to form a successful partnership, who knows how high Norwich will fly. They will be aiming to push into the top half after two successful seasons in the Premiership. Sadly, I think they may fall short of the top half but will be well clear of the relegation zone and will certainly be a team to keep an eye on.

Key Man: Sebastien Bassong - Bassong was a rock at the heart of the Norwich defence last year and as a result of his work last year he has scored himself the vice-captaincy at the club. Not only that, but Bassong also earned himself Player of the Year award at Norwich. The Cameroon international will be looking to replicate last seasons fine form as he looks to take his team to the top half.

One to Watch: Nathan Redmond - The tricky winger arrived for a small fee from Birmingham and is certainly one to watch. He has plenty of caps for England at various levels excluding senior and is a hot prospect. Often played on the flank and already with one goal in the Europa League two years ago, the 19 year old will be looking to prove himself on the big stage.

Best Summer Signing: Ricky Van Wolfswinkel - A real coup for Norwich, Van Wolfswinkel is a proven goalscorer. Finishing in the top four scorers two season running at Sporting, Van Wolfswinkel has been linked with numerous Premier League clubs over the years and it will be a pleasure to watch him play in England.

Last Season: 11th

Pre-Season Prediction: 13th - Not sure why but I see them being leapfrogged by some teams, despite their undoubted squad quality. Could and probably should do better than this though.