2009-10 premier league preview - Manchester City

Ok, from the top, we have an embarrassment of riches with forwards that lead the way. However, whereas Adebayor sits nestled usually in the upper reaches, the classy Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Craig Bellamy can roam and create. Hughes has already said Bellamy and Santa Cruz cannot be expected to play three times a week given their injury history so expect them in half-game cameos.
More importantly, city have added to a good holding midfielder in Nigel de Jong with Barry, so now they can unleash Ireland and with so much options up forward...he is going to have a big year. With the added solid Toure at back, look for a 4-3-3 play more often and look for more goals with assists by Robinho, Tevez and Ireland. That's if Robinho doesn't mind actually getting his hands dirty once in a while.
Of course, a lot depends on Shay Given and if he brought his hands along on the day.
They should beat Blackburn on first outing...and Wolves at home the following week especially since Wolves play midweek away game. They then beat a Portsmouth team that should be easy pickings and their big test against Arsenal will come with City undefeated.
I think City will get into the top 6.