The Greatest League in the World is back.
You have to respect the League of Ireland for shamelessly referring to itself as The Greatest League in the World.
People are often quick to point out that the league does not possess the most quality of any league in the world, and guess what? We know. Shut up. That's not the point.
But the quality is on the rise, no doubt about it. So get involved!
Before you get involved, you might want to know a bit about each team going into the league. And that's where we come in.
So without further ado, here's a preview of each of League of Ireland team's season in three words, followed by a succinct summary. It's going to be tough, so give us a break...
Bohemians - BOHS ON TOUR
The Bohs are going to Europe, and because of this, they REALLY won't be too worried about the league. Upper mid-table finish to be expected, with a breakout season for promising striker Andre Wright also looking very possible.
Cork City - Big improvements needed
Cork had quite a disappointing season last year, finishing just outside the danger zone. Although they never really looked like going down, they will certainly plan on having a better season than they did last year. Bringing in so much young talent on loan is a risky move, and it's hard to know whether or not it will pay off.
Derry City - Should be fun
Derry have built a great side for themselves, with a good coach, AND they've got themselves in Europe. Derry fans will be buzzing going into the season, and they have every right to be.
Dundalk - Winds of change?
It seems an eternity since Stephen Kenny left his job at Dundalk, and despite still having an excellent squad, this season could be the one that sees the lads at Oriel Park lose their top spot, with Shamrock Rovers hot on their heels.
Finn Harps - What the hell?
Harps just about managed to stay up last season, and despite a few strong signings (Barry McNamee being a particularly good addition), the lads will have their work cut out for them. They've got work to do, but thanks to an excellent fan-assisted transfer window, they might just shock a few teams this year.
Shamrock Rovers - More than enough
Rovers have more than enough resources to finally get the job done this season, so much so that they've only gone and entered a second team in the LOI First Division. A bold move, and one that would look a lot wiser if they were to win the league this season...
Shelbourne - The promised land
Shels are back in the top flight for the first time since 2013, and with a talented squad at their disposal, simply staying up would be seen as a massive success.
Sligo - Worrying times ahead
Sligo failed to strengthen, and although LOI veteran Liam Buckley will do his best what he has at his disposal, we don't think it's going to be a pretty season for the Bit O'Red. That support will be bouncing every week either way though.
St Pat's - So much talent
Even though Pats had a decent season in 2019, they will want to push on this season, and based on the squad they have, it's entirely possible. A European push is certainly not off the cards. Perhaps this will be Darragh Markey's breakout season, it's bound to happen eventually.
Waterford - The surprise package
Mourning the loss of the incredible Zak Elbouzedi who has signed for Lincoln City, Waterford may be counted out by many before a ball has been kicked, but we think they will be a bogey team for a lot of the league this season.
We look forward to every single one of these predictions coming true. Every last one of them.
