So, it is just three days until the big kick off. We may have had the best World Cup in recent years to keep us occupied this summer, but let’s face it; it has seemed like an eternity since we have been through every emotion in the space of 90 minutes at the home of football.
As we embark on a new season and with many new faces at our club, which former green and white favourites have also made moves this summer?
Where are they now?
The former Southampton striker has secured a season long loan to Derby from their Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers. Best spent 15 unforgettable games at Yeovil Town scoring 10 goals in the process. Having suffered an indifferent career in recent years, this move could be huge for Best. Derby are one of the favourites to succeed this year and all Town fans would love to see the striker be the hero for the Rams, as he once was at Huish Park.
It is undeniable that we have had some outstanding goalkeepers and Stephen Henderson was one of the best. Henderson has secured a move from West Ham United to Charlton Athletic on a three year deal. His loan spells at Huish Park are fondly remembered, particularly a heroic display in a 2 – 2 draw at Sheffield Wednesday where the Glovers finished the game with 9 men. Consistent Championship football will allow him to make a mark on the division and get back to his best, I can’t wait to see his performances on the Football League Show and say with pride “he used to play for us.”
One of our most successful loan signings, with an England appearance to his name and a consistent performer in the Premier League, Steven Caulker has made the move from Cardiff City to newly promoted Queens Park Rangers. Having played every game for the Bluebirds last season, it is little surprise he is taking his place back in the Premier League. As a Yeovil Town fan who else never tires of letting everyone know that he made his league debut for the Glovers? I certainly do not and I have no doubt he will have another successful season and will pull on an England shirt sooner rather than later!
These players made such an impact on us that we will always follow their new beginnings, as we start our own.
I almost forgot…where on earth is our favourite goalkeeper of all time now?! You all know who I mean, not only is he a force to be reckoned with between the sticks, he is also a threat in front of goal?! Yes, lucky for us Chris Weale is back home following a great career at Leicester City and Shrewsbury Town. Welcome back Wealey, we are just as proud of you and it is great to have another club legend back at Huish Park.
With the football league back I am sure there will be many exciting stories from the opening weekend and I cannot wait to share my views with you all next week. For now, let’s enjoy the excitement; here are my stand out fixtures for the coming weekend:
Championship:
Millwall vs Leeds – Two teams with colourful reputations, but on the pitch they both had disappointing campaigns last season. Millwall will be fresh from a fantastic end to the season securing survival and Leeds will want to distract from their heavily disputed takeover. Expect goals, tackles and no doubt some controversy!
League One:
Sheffield United vs Bristol City – It is no surprise that this fixture has been chosen for the sky cameras as two favourites for success in the division take each other on in a clash that could be crucial even this early on. With both clubs boasting crowds that Championship clubs would be proud of, they will feel it is their time to get out of this division. Expect a tight game with a few nerves as both sets of fans hope to be celebrating come the end of the season!
League Two:
Carlisle vs Luton – A clash between one promoted side and one relegated side. Both clubs will be expecting a successful season. Luton may have lost top scorer Andre Gray to Brentford but Paul Benson will be looking to make his mark after a successful loan spell at the club. Expect an entertaining match with plenty of goals as both teams adjust to the new division.
Of course, the biggest match of all takes place at Huish Park when Doncaster Rovers visit for the opening game of the season. So let’s all create a #WallOfColour and get behind the lads in order to get the first three points of the season!
See you there!
