Franco tipped for star role as we predict season ahead

ANOTHER season is upon us, and Swansea City fans will be brimming with hope and expectation around their side's upcoming Championship campaign.

- Tom Coleman - Swansea City writer John Jones - Sports writer Mathew Davies - Sport content editor

This is the first time Alan Sheehan has gone into a new season as fully-fledged head coach in his own right, and he will be keen on improving on the 11th-placed finish mustered up last term.

That campaign was largely defined by what was a hugely impressive run of form under the Irishman, who masterminded 23 points from 12 games to steer City away from a choppy start under predecessor Luke Williams.

A good start this time around will be crucial if he wants to improve on that standing. But where are his side actually likely to finish? Who will be the main man, and who will be the one to fire in the goals?

Here's what our panel of experts reckon

Star player: Goncalo Franco

The Portuguese midfielder arguably has the potential to be one of the best in the division, having enjoyed a really strong opening season in the Championship, and he’s likely to be the main man for his side this term.

The 24-year-old brings bite and energy in the middle of the park, and relishes a battle. He's also often at the root of Swansea's most promising attacking moves, but could perhaps add a few more goals and assists to his game.

‘A classy operator that could well end up playing Premier League football one day.

Top scorer: Liam Cullen

Herein lies one of the concerns for Swansea. They don’t really have too many out-and-out goalscorers in this squad, and I really hope they address that before the close of the window. Otherwise, it could end up being a long and difficult season.