Having led his team to a first major trophy in 25 years thanks to his recruitment of players like Gianfranco Zola and Roberto Di Matteo (pictured) there will be no great pressure on Ruud Gullit to do anything more this season, but after strengthening the team in several key areas with the signing of Celestine Babayaro (left full) Gustavo Poyet (attacking midfield) and goalkeeper Ed de Goey he will be hoping for much greater consistency in the league.
That the Londoners will score an abundance of goals looks certain but they have a habit of giving far too many away (last season only four teams, all from the bottom six, conceded more) and it may be the success of centre half Bernard Lambourde and the form of last season' long term casualty Michael Duberry that decide whether a serious challenge for the championship is realistic.
Manager: Ruud Gullit.
In: Celestine Babayaro (from Anderlecht) £2.25 million, Ed de Goey (from Feyenoord) £2.25million, Bernard Lambourde (from Bordeaux) £1.5 million, Gustavo Poyet (from Real Zaragoza) free, Tore Andre Flo (from Brann Bergen) £300,000.
Out: Craig Burley (to Celtic) £2.5million, Scott Minto (to Benfica) free, Erland Johnsen (to Rosenborg) free, Chris McCann (to Southend) free, Paul Parker released, David Roecastle (to Aberdeen) on trial.
Last Season: Sixth. FA Cup: Winners. Coca-Cola Cup: Third.
Betting: 11 to 1.
