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McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 8th

Actual finish: 5th

A flat finish and some pointed comments from manager Ange Postecoglou meant a season that carried great optimism in the early stages ended as a bit of an anti-climax, despite returning to Europe next season in the Europa League.

Postecoglou brought some much-needed positive football and outstanding signings in defender Micky van de Ven and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. This has definitely been an improvement, although the manager’s statement about his unhappiness with "frailties inside and outside the club" hint at much more work needing to be done.

Read the rest of Phil McNulty's end-of-season Premier League report here