UK Edition
Premier League report card: how did your club rate in 2016-17?
ARSENAL
What were expectations?
It had been Arsenal’s highest-spending summer in the club’s history and there was a hope that the final pieces had been put in place for a Premier League title winning team.
... and what was the reality?
Their startling midfield reliance on Santi Cazorla was exposed once he became injured and the club have only belatedly found a balance. The team also crumbled mentally at key moments.
How did the manager do?
Began well enough but, during the nosedive in the middle of the season, there were justifiable questions about whether the dressing-room was still with him. Changed the system and seems to have got squad back on board.
Best player
Alexis Sanchez obviously stands out for his assists, goals and versatility in playing both centrally and on the left. His very public shows of frustration, however, did undermine team spirit.
Worst player
Francis Coquelin. His development in the specialist holding role has stalled this season. Faltered once Cazorla got injured and has since lost what was a regular starting place.
High point
The 3-0 win against Chelsea was their most complete performance and, at that moment in the season, the future Premier League winners looked far more likely to be Arsenal than Antonio Conte’s team.
Low point
Several contenders but the defeat at Crystal Palace was the worst, not just for the utterly-limp performance but the consequences on their top-four hopes and the fury it provoked among many fans.
Who was the scapegoat?
Arsene Wenger is the deserved focus for scrutiny but some of the abuse was well over the top. Arsenal were below par but also not the disastrous failures of popular perception.
Next season's target must be...
To challenge seriously for the Premier League. Being outside the Champions League may actually help in this regard, but a sustained tilt at the title has become overdue.
Fan happiness rating 3/10
Overall achievement grade C-
BOURNEMOUTH
What were expectations?
The target was simply to keep their place in the Premier League for a third season and also continue the incremental yearly improvement under manager Eddie Howe
... and what was the reality?
Another season of impressive progress and good football that has slipped almost under the radar outside of Dorset. For a third straight year, this has been the highest league finish in the club’s entire history
How did the manager do?
Eddie Howe keeps inspiring improvement and has also managed a balance of gradually increasing the outside quality while keeping faith with and developing a core of players who have been with him in the long-term.
Best player
Joshua King. Has all the obvious physical and technical attributes and his hard work under Howe has really begun to pay off in a season that has seen him score 16 Premier League goals.
Worst player
Max Gradel. Was unlucky to suffer a bad knee injury in his first season at Bournemouth but has again struggled this season to justify his transfer fee and his only goal this season was in the EFL Cup against Morecombe.
High point
The extraordinary 4-3 home win against Liverpool. The way Bournemouth kept playing, even when they fell behind, was a testament to a philosophy that never wavers regardless of the opposition or the score.
Low point
It might seem strange to single out a 3-3 draw against Arsenal but the disappointment was in how they had led 3-0 after 69 minutes and were unable to see out another memorable victory.
Who was the scapegoat?
Artur Boruc is erratic and has his critics but is also capable of brilliance and, while Bournemouth may look to upgrade their goalkeeper, he delivered some match-winning moments.
Next season's target must be...
Another improvement. It obviously gets harder to keep going up the league and the first priority will be to again steer clear of relegation. Cup success would also be a huge bonus.
Fan happiness rating 9/10
Overall achievement grade A
BURNLEY
What were the expectations?
Burnley were tipped by many to go straight back down after winning promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking. Plenty thought one, long slog lay in store.
And what was the reality?
Survived in relative comfort and boasted the best home record in the Premier League outside the top seven. The only disappointment in an otherwise impressive season was a dismal away record.
How did the manager do?
Sean Dyche enhanced his reputation as one of British football’s brightest young managers, working wonders on a meagre budget and fostering a remarkable team spirit at Turf Moor.
Best player?
Michael Keane. Fellow defender Ben Mee and goalkeeper Tom Heaton also had excellent seasons but Keane made serious strides and now seems likely to move to Manchester United in the summer.
Worst player?
They haven’t had one. Burnley’s success has been in the collective and that would not have been possible with weak links consistently underperforming.
High point?
Winning more home league games than Manchester United is an impressive feat. Beating Liverpool and Everton at Turf Moor and holding champions Chelsea to a draw stand out.
Low point?
The 4-0 thumping at West Bromwich Albion in November, when they were three goals down after 37 minutes, was about as bad as it got for an otherwise obdurate side.
Who was the scapegoat?
Joey Barton, depending on your viewpoint. The veteran midfielder was banned for 18 months by the FA last month after placing 1,260 bets on football over a 10-year period.
Next season’s target must be?
More of the same, unless Dyche can persuade the board to push the boat out in the summer in a bid to try to break into the Premier League’s top 10.
Fan happiness rating 9/10
Overall achievement grade A-
CHELSEA
What were expectations?
Antonio Conte’s brief was to get Chelsea back into the Champions League and repair what had become a fractured dressing-room last season, following a turbulent 10th-place finish.
... and what was the reality?
Much, much better. By January, Chelsea were six points clear at the top of the Premier League and the ambition changed. Now, the club wanted the title and Conte delivered. He could yet complete the Double.
How did the manager do?
Conte has worked wonders. Having switched to a back three during the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal, Chelsea have been pretty much unstoppable. The Italian has so far exceeded all expectations.
Best player
N’Golo Kante. The PFA and FWA footballer of the year was probably slightly more consistent than Eden Hazard. His energy and tackling were key, but Kante has also proved he can be effective with the ball.
Worst player
Branislav Ivanovic. The Serb did not last long in the Conte revolution, but he was appalling in Chelsea’s first seven games before being dropped and allowed to join Zenit St Petersburg.
High point
The 3-0 victory at Everton was the game that effectively clinched the Premier League trophy for Chelsea, as proved by the scenes of celebration from Conte and his players at the final whistle.
Low point
The first half against Arsenal was as bad as it got for Chelsea this season. They were played off the park for 45 minutes at the Emirates and looked anything but champions in waiting.
Who was the scapegoat?
There was no scapegoat in what has been an excellent season. Gary Cahill, though, does still have his doubters despite performing heroically and scoring some crucial goals.
Next season’s target must be…
To advance in the Champions League. Combining the Premier League with Europe is Conte’s next challenge and Chelsea will hope to make the last 16 at the very least.
Fan happiness rating 10/10
Overall achievement grade A
CRYSTAL PALACE
What were expectations?
To erase the memory of a disastrous second half of the 2015-16 season, deliver a more fluent brand of football and establish themselves as a top-half side after spending freely during the summer.
... and what was the reality?
A long, ugly battle against relegation, which saw club hero Alan Pardew fired after a catastrophic first four months of the campaign and replaced by Sam Allardyce, whose escapology act was only completed on the penultimate weekend.
How did the manager do?
Pardew? Disastrously. His attempt to get Palace playing a more expansive style backfired horribly. Allardyce did what he does best, and his unapologetically pragmatic approach ultimately yielded survival.
Best player
Wilfried Zaha. The winger was exceptional last season, but his game has now gone to a new level: seven goals and nine assists are impressive but his contribution cannot be measured by numbers alone. Left a succession of full-backs with twisted blood.
Worst player
Wayne Hennessey. The goalkeeper is a giant for Wales but seems to shrink when he pulls on a Palace jersey. Had a technical flaw of taking a half-step to his right exposed more than once by long-range shots.
High point
Becoming the first team in seven months to defeat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge just pipped recording a first home win over Arsenal since 1979, and a third straight victory at Anfield.
Low point
Losing 5-4 at Swansea after leading 4-3 in stoppage time was bad, but leaking four goals in 45 minutes to a dreadful Sunderland side in February far, far worse. Many fans disappeared to the bar and did not come back.
Who was the scapegoat?
Damien Delaney, Andros Townsend, Martin Kelly and Joel Ward would all raise an eyebrow at the idea that Palace's admittedly noisy home fans offer nothing less than unstinting support.
Next season’s target must be…
A strong start which leaves them well clear of another relegation battle. Having already employed Tony Pulis and Sam Allardyce, chairman Steve Parish is running out of firefighters to call upon.
Fan happiness rating 6/10
Overall achievement grade C-
EVERTON
What were expectations?
To push into the top six and qualify for Europe. Roberto Martinez’s last two years created a downward curve. Ronald Koeman had to reverse that and make going to Goodison a thrill, rather than chore, again.
…and what was the reality?
Everton were in contention for a top-six place until the final month, just unable to break through but safe in 7th. European football was secure and the club boasted their best home campaign since the 1990s. It was the season of promise expected.
How did the manager do?
Koeman is a world-class manager. Links to Barcelona will continue to concern Evertonians, but it’s a measure of their coach’s abilities. He is a winner - ruthless and demanding. For as long as he is at the club, Everton will be striving for more every year.
Best player
Romelu Lukaku. The league’s top scorer for most of the season, Lukaku has the capacity to destroy opponents, although the criticism of flat-track bullying lingers. Nevertheless, it will be an expensive business replacing him should Chelsea’s latest move succeed.
Worst player
Joel Robles. It is harsh on the goalkeeper who only gets the vote because Oumar Niasse never got close to the squad once Koeman had seen him train. Robles makes too many mistakes, too often conceding goals without anyone quite being sure how it has happened.
High point
Defeating Manchester City at home in a fixture than signalled the coming-of-age of teenager Tom Davies. After a slight dip in form around Christmas, Davies’ introduction was the catalyst for a consistent spell in the second half of the season.
Low point
Early defeats in both cup competitions, especially as the lack of European football should have made progress a priority. Koeman must regret making so many changes in the EFL Cup, especially.
Next season’s target must be…
Koeman will want to be in the Champions League sooner rather than later. Realistically, Everton’s progress must be measured in points. If they manage over 70 next year they will be challenging for the top four. That’s the target.
Who was the scapegoat?
It is usually Ross Barkley. When he broke into the side he looked capable of being a superstar but he is not there yet. His game intelligence has not evolved enough, and the failure to sign a new contract is a source of bemusement at Goodison.
Fan happiness rating 6/10
Overall achievement grade C
HULL CITY
What were the expectations?
They were low from the start, mainly because the manager who had got them promoted, Steve Bruce, quit because he was frustrated at the lack of support for his recruitment plans. Relegation always looked likely.
... and what was the reality?
Despite a bright start under Mike Phelan, Hull looked doomed until he was replaced by Marco Silva in January. The Portuguese almost pulled off a miracle, but a small squad, which lost two of its best players, Robert Snodgrass and Jake Livermore in January, was not good enough.
How did the manager do?
Phelan tried his best but was let down by those above him as Hull left their transfer business until August and the team were in desperate trouble when he was sacked in January. Silva did an excellent job, but his inability to win away undermined some excellent results at home. He will move on to bigger and better things.
Best player
Harry Maguire had never played a Premier League game before this season, but he has undoubtedly been Hull’s best player and a hugely-popular figure. He wants to stay in the Premier League and there will be plenty of interest in the young centre-back this summer.
Worst player
Dieumerci Mbokani. Signed on loan from Dynamo Kiev in late August, the striker failed to score a single goal in 14 appearances and spent most of his time as an unused substitute.
High point
Reaching the semi-finals of the League Cup was a brilliant achievement in the circumstances and their home form under Silva was superb, the best win coming against Liverpool in February
Low point
Hull had clawed their way out of the bottom three and would have kept control of their own destiny if they had not suffered a shock home defeat to already-relegated Sunderland at the start of May.
Who was the scapegoat?
Ehab Allam has been in charge of the day-to-day running of the club as his father Assem has stepped down. Distracted by their desire to sell the club 12 months ago, he ailed to strengthen the squad properly and then replaced Snodgrass and Livermore with loan signings. The finger points firmly at him.
Next season's target must be...
To find a suitable replacement for Silva – as he will surely leave after relegation – and for the Allams to try and heal wounds with supporters. Promotion will be the objective, but given how badly things have gone in the last 12 months, it is far from certain they will compete for a top-six place in the Championship.
Fans happiness rating 3/10
Overall achievement grade D
LEICESTER CITY
What were expectations?
Last season's miracle men were never going to win the title again but supporters would surely have regarded progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League and a top-10 finish as a job well done.
...and what was the reality?
Claudio Ranieri's fairytale died in February after a difficult title defence and make no mistake, Leicester were going down until the decision that shocked football was made. Craig Shakespeare has steadied the ship and avoided the unthinkable.
How did the manager do?
It feels churlish to dismiss Ranieri after that title triumph but his second season was excruciating at times. He simply had to go and Shakespeare's impact underlined how Ranieri had lost his way.
Best player
An honourable mention for Marc Albrighton but Kasper Schmeichel was outstanding, particularly during Leicester's Champions League debut. Schmeichel is now easily one of the top-five goalkeepers operating in Europe.
Worst player
Leicester's summer recruitment was abysmal, a huge chance missed from a position of strength, and £15 million buy Ahmed Musa was arguably the worst of the lot. It will be no surprise if he moves on.
High point
Leicester's memorable moments were reserved for Europe and beyond their comfortable victory in Bruges, in their first ever Champions League game, the stirring home win over Sevilla was one to savour.
Low point
The 6-1 tonking by Tottenham Hotspur was a nightmare for Shakespeare but there were many bewildering performances under Ranieri. The 2-0 defeat at Swansea was arguably their lowest ebb and sparked the owners into making that shock decision.
Who was the scapegoat?
Riyad Mahrez was last season's PFA Player of the Year but that award has weighed heavily on his shoulders. Some supporters have targeted him in recent months and his departure seems inevitable.
Next season's target must be...
Leicester are intent on making European nights the norm and are targeting a place in the top six, however unlikely. To do that, their recruitment will have to be far better this summer.
Fan happiness rating 7/10
Overall achievement grade B-
LIVERPOOL
What were expectations?
Finish in the top four and winning either the EFL Cup or FA Cup. It was going perfectly to plan until December because a great start elevated aspirations. Cup disappointment skewed perspectives, but qualifying for the Champions League was always the real goal.
... and what was the reality?
Liverpool’s season proceeded as anticipated, albeit with a strange trajectory. The sprinting start gave them the appearance of title challengers on January 1, but then the loss of key players shifted the mood back to downbeat - despite expectations being met.
How did the manager do?
He has performed well, although his decision not to strengthen again in January proved a short-term error that will need long-term remedy this summer. The essence of Klopp’s side he inherited from Brendan Rodgers, with Sadio Mane, Joel Matip and Georginio Wijnaldum the only regular additions.
Best player
Sadio Mane was transformative. His pace, skill and goal threat meant those teams heading to Anfield with zero ambition were battered before half-time. His departure in January – and then his injury late in the season – made Liverpool less exciting.
Worst player
Alberto Moreno has still not been forgiven by The Kop for his Europa League Final performance last May. He’s rarely featured this year, and even when called upon his cameos have been comical.
High point
Beating Arsenal and Chelsea away early in the season and back-to-back wins over Everton and Manchester City in December. They were blueprint Klopp performances, albeit not maintained. Expect more of the same next season.
Low point
Defeat to Southampton in the EFL Cup semi-final, closely followed by FA Cup embarrassment against Stoke. It was a woeful January and February for the club which led to the realigning of those earlier title ambitions.
Who was the scapegoat?
Dejan Lovren. Whenever Liverpool’s defence underperforms, Lovren is their target. It resulted in Klopp publicly defending the decision to give the Croatian a new contract.
Next season's target must be...
Another top-four finish and an additional 10 points which would sustain a title bid longer. And win a trophy. That will be a challenge as Liverpool seek to advance in Europe. Klopp will need more strength in depth to challenge on four fronts.
Fan happiness rating 7/10
Overall achievement grade B
MANCHESTER CITY
What were expectations?
A serious tilt at the title, progression to the latter stages of the Champions League, and a trophy of some description. City’s owners wanted to see improvement on Manuel Pellegrini’s final season in charge.
... and what was the reality?
A huge disappointment. Champions League qualification was only secured on the final day of the season and Monaco exposed plenty of flaws in Europe. There was not even the comfort of a domestic trophy.
How did the manager do?
This was by far the most bruising season of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career. Exposed tactically in the Champions League by Monaco and guilty of underestimating the unique demands of the Premier League.
Best player
David Silva. One player who was reinvigorated by Guardiola, the classy Spaniard thrived in a central midfield role. Gabriel Jesus was a revelation in the handful of games he played.
Worst player
Claudio Bravo. The Chile goalkeeper, signed as a replacement for Joe Hart, has proven a feeble shot-stopper and was dropped for Willy Caballero.
High point
The 3-1 win over Barcelona in the Champions League in November when City recovered from a poor start and going a goal behind to produce a stunning fightback.
Low point
There have been a few. The 4-2 and 4-0 defeats at Leicester and Everton respectively and the 3-1 second-leg defeat to Monaco, when Guardiola’s reckless approach backfired.
Who was the scapegoat?
John Stones. The England defender did not help himself at times but playing alongside the erratic Nicolas Otamendi and in front of Bravo, and the constant tinkering at the back, did him few favours.
Next season's target must be...
A serious assault on the Premier League and a vastly-improved showing in the Champions League. Guardiola has already claimed he will be sacked if he does not deliver.
Fan happiness rating 3/10
Overall achievement grade C-
MANCHESTER UNITED
What were the expectations?
A comfortable top-four finish, Champions League qualification, a trophy and a more exciting, entertaining brand of football.
.... and what was the reality?
Victory in Wednesday’s Europa League final would yield a second trophy [third if you count the Community Shield in addition to the League Cup] and Champions League qualification. The promise of a vastly-improved style of football has yet to materialise.
How did the manager do?
Jose Mourinho’s success this season hinges on the outcome of Wednesday’s final against Ajax. The manager will cite fatigue, injuries and fixture congestion but the quality of football has gone backwards in recent months.
Best player?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Ander Herrera was named player of the year by the fans, and the Spaniard has had a very good season, but United would have been in a pickle without the Swede’s 28 goals.
Worst player?
Anthony Martial. Wayne Rooney’s form has fallen off a cliff but the signs were coming. Martial, on the other hand, has been a consistent disappointment after an impressive debut season.
High point?
It may still be to come if United beat Ajax. The 2-0 victory over champions Chelsea last month was a tactical masterclass from Mourinho and United’s best performance post Ferguson.
Low point?
The 4-0 defeat against Chelsea on Mourinho’s first return to Stamford Bridge since his sacking there was humiliating for the manager. The volume of draws and dropped points at Old Trafford was infuriating for fans.
Who was the scapegoat?
Luke Shaw, closely followed by Chris Smalling. Shaw has had his attitude, commitment, focus, ambition and footballing intelligence questioned by Mourinho and then suffered another bad injury to compound another forgettable season.
Next season’s target must be...
It will depend on whether United qualify for the Champions League. If they miss out for a second successive season, the club’s title ambitions could be undermined by another campaign in the Europa League.
Fan happiness rating 8/10 if they win the Europa League; 5/10 if they don’t.
Overall achievement grade B+ if they overcome Ajax. C- if they lose.
MIDDLESBROUGH
What were expectations?
Having taken seven years to get out of the Championship, the plan was to consolidate in the top flight, but to do so on a sensible budget. The team were expected to evolve under Aitor Karanka and they were confident they would avoid relegation because they would be hard to beat.
... and what was the reality?
Karanka became far too entrenched in his negative approach and stubbornly refused to change the team’s style of play, even though it made Boro painful to watch. A solid start slowly unravelled as Karanka struggled with outside criticism and the appointment of Steve Agnew did nothing to improve things
How did the manager do?
Karanka had fallen out with his players during their promotion season and although he is an innovative coach, he was too rigid in his instructions and strangled the attacking instincts of his players. By the end, he had criticised both the fans and the board for failing him and few were sorry to see him leave.
Best player
Calum Chambers. Although Ben Gibson attracted most of the publicity and performed well, Chambers looked a class act alongside him in the centre of defence. He has gone back to Arsenal after the end of his loan deal but should look for a permanent move this summer.
Worst player
Viktor Fischer. A summer signing from Ajax with a big reputation in his native Denmark, the striker has looked completely out of his depth, failing to score in 16 appearances following a £3.8m move.
High point
A brilliant performance from goalkeeper Victor Valdes helped Boro secure a 1-1 draw away to Manchester City. Karanka’s plan to frustrate his old rival from Spain, Pep Guardiola, worked superbly and Marten de Roon’s late equaliser sparked bedlam in the away section.
Low point
If Middlesbrough were going to launch a late survival push under Agnew they had to beat the teams around them in the table, but were out-classed by Hull City at the start of April and never looked like getting out of trouble after it.
Who was the scapegoat?
When the dust has settled, it should be remembered that Karanka took over a team that was in relegation trouble in the Championship and got them promoted, but his leadership, tactics and personality all began to irritate those around him. His cautious containment tactics were like a straight-jacket that could not be removed.
Next season's target must be…
Middlesbrough have followed the Burnley blueprint by accepting that it is sometimes necessary to take a step back to make a leap forward. Relegation is not a disaster because they have the same players who got them promoted and will also have money to spend. They must come straight back up.
Fan happiness rating 5/10
Overall achievement grade D
SOUTHAMPTON
What were expectations?
The hope was to balance out Premier League demands with the Europa League and also again push for European football. A top-half finish has become expected and would have been the initial league target.
... and what was the reality?
Southampton again ended the season challenging to finish in the top half but their points tally was noticeably lower. Disappointment in the Europa League was counterbalanced by how the League Cup became a positive added distraction.
Best player
Oriol Romeu. Has played with great discipline in front of the back four to again make Southampton defensively secure and one of the best passing teams in the Premier league.
Worst player
Sofiane Boufal. Recruited for a club-record fee and, while there have been glimpses of his creative qualities, has struggled so far to fit into the system and consistently deliver.
High point
After Ronald Koeman’s controversial departure last summer, the sweetest moment of the Premier League season was beating his Everton team with so many young players in the side.
Low point
The lack of goals and frustrations that surrounded perhaps the dullest game of the season – a goalless draw at home to Hull City – were compounded by Dusan Tadic’s late, missed penalty.
Who was the scapegoat?
Jose Fonte. Moving to West Ham United made limited footballing sense but his deep disappointment at being left out of key Europa League matches, especially at the San Siro, was understandable after his key role in lifting Southampton from League One to Europe.
Next season's target must be…
To get back into the Europa League and ensure that the gap that has formed this season between the top six and the rest of the Premier League is again narrowed.
Fan happiness rating 4/10
Overall achievement grade C+
STOKE CITY
What were expectations?
After three successive ninth-placed finishes under Mark Hughes, the target was either a repeat or even breaking through into the top eight of the Premier League.
And what was the reality?
Stoke never looked in danger of relegation but expectations have risen and the season will be viewed as a damp squib. Hughes is now under pressure to start the next campaign strongly.
How did the manager do?
Hughes has transformed Stoke since his appointment in 2013 but this was a difficult season, defined by questionable signings and a surprisingly-poor defensive record. He deserves good will for his past achievements, however.
Best player
Lee Grant was signed on deadline day in September to combat the loss of Jack Butland and spectacularly seized his chance. With nine clean sheets, Grant swept the player of the year awards.
Worst player
Many of Hughes' players have been targeted this season, from Erik Pieters and Glenn Whelan to Glen Johnson, but Wilfried Bony was a huge disappointment and has failed to play since December.
High point
They have been few and far between this season but draws at big-spending Manchester United and Manchester City were deserved, if lacking in stardust.
Low point
Stoke have conceded four goals seven times this season and the home defeats against Spurs, Arsenal and Manchester City were particularly bad. The 2-0 defeat at home to Wolves in the FA Cup was also a shocker.
Who was the scapegoat?
Hughes is coming under serious scrutiny from supporters and they long for the Stoke of 18 months ago. Stoke's board will support Hughes, but next season has to be better.
Next season's target must be...
A drastic improvement and a shake-up of the squad, injecting some pace and lowering the average age. Many Stoke fans fear a relegation battle so another top-10 finish would be the target.
Fan happiness rating 4/10
Overall achievement grade D
SUNDERLAND
What were expectations?
Having finished the season strongly under former manager Sam Allardyce, Sunderland thought they had found an upgrade when they brought in David Moyes as his replacement. After five years of relegation battles, there was genuine optimism that they would not be in trouble this time.
... and what was the reality?
Moyes quickly discovered that there was very little money to spend and having arrived after the start of pre-season training, his recruitment was both rushed and misguided. The players he inherited have, in the main, failed to respond and this time, there was no miraculous late escape.
How did the manager do?
Moyes looked like the ideal appointment but is now desperately battling to salvage his reputation. His negativity has seeped through the club and this season has been a disaster. Moyes has tried to put the blame elsewhere, with some justification, but there is no doubt he has also failed.
Best player
Jermain Defoe. To score 15 goals in a team as poor as Sunderland is some achievement and he thoroughly deserved his England call-up. Has not been the same player since though.
Worst player
Fabio Borini. It could have gone to several players, including Adnan Januzaj, but the Italian’s attitude and performances have stunk all season, yet he believes he is the one who has been harshly treated.
High point
Without the euphoria of a derby win over Newcastle, the 4-0 away victory over Crystal Palace in February seemed to be the moment Moyes cracked it. Instead, Sunderland would win just one more game all season.
Low point
Sunderland were still very much in the running to avoid relegation at Christmas, but their form was terrible in 2017. A relegation, five years in the making, was confirmed by a 1-0 home defeat to Bournemouth.
Who was the scapegoat?
Take your pick, because nobody comes out of this woeful season with any credit. Moyes has been a huge disappointment, owner Ellis Short is desperate to sell up after years of poor decisions, the players have looked disinterested and chief executive Martin Bain is more worried about cutting costs than football.
Next season's target must be…
Relegation is not the end of the world and there is an argument to suggest it needed to happen - the club needs a reboot. The playing staff needs a complete overhaul and Sunderland have always challenged for promotion immediately after relegation from the Premier League. They must do so again.
Fan happiness rating 3/10
Overall achievement grade E
SWANSEA CITY
What were expectations?
To build on last season's 12th-placed finish, avoid a relegation battle and possibly challenge in one of the cup competitions.
... and what was the reality?
A season of chaos on and off the field, which saw no fewer than four different managers placed in charge and a desperate battle to avoid relegation which was only won on the penultimate weekend.
How did the manager do?
Which one? Francesco Guidolin was sacked in October, while Bob Bradley lasted just 85 days. Alan Curtis, the caretaker, secured a crucial win at Crystal Palace which helped give impetus to the incoming Paul Clement, who did enough to secure survival.
Best player
Was any player more valuable to his club last season than Gylfi Sigurdsson? The Iceland international's goals, assists and all-around class saw him operating on a different level to his team-mates.
Worst player
Borja Baston arrived with a big reputation and a price tag (£15 million) to match, but started just a handful of games. Expect him to return to Spain in the summer.
High point
Winning 3-2 at Anfield - the first time Liverpool had lost at home in the league - kick-started a run of four wins in six games which breathed life into Swansea's season.
Low point
The 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth prompted the sacking of the hapless Bradley and buried Swansea's hard-earned reputation for common sense and thoughtful planning.
Who was the scapegoat?
Fernando Llorente came good with six goals in 10 games at the end of the season, but it should not be forgotten that he was openly mocked by pundits for sprinting just 19.2 metres in the defeat at Watford in April. It underlined why few expect him to be at the Liberty in August.
Next season’s target must be…
Returning to the model of stability which saw them rise through the leagues in the first place, and avoiding another relegation scrap.
Fan happiness rating 6/10
Overall achievement grade C-
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
What were expectations?
To qualify for the Champions League for a second successive season and to try to finish the season with a trophy from either the Premier League, FA Cup or League Cup.
... and what was the reality?
Tottenham achieved their aim and in some ways exceeded expectations in the league by finishing above Arsenal for the first time in over 20 years. But there was no silverware at the end of it.
How did the manager do?
Mauricio Pochettino continued to prove that he is one of the brightest managers in Europe by outperforming a number of teams who had spent far more money than Spurs.
Best player
Dele Alli. The big question for Alli was could he somehow improve on his superb breakthrough season and the 21-year-old managed to do just that with his goals and assists.
Worst player
Moussa Sissoko. The midfielder arrived in a deal worth a club record £30 million, but has barely managed to make an impact. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he was sold this summer.
High point
The 2-0 victory over Arsenal that confirmed Tottenham’s place above their north London rivals for the first time in 22 years. It also maintained hope that Spurs might catch Chelsea, which they eventually failed to do.
Low point
The Champions League campaign. Europe did not go well for Tottenham, who failed to qualify from their group and were knocked out of the Europa League at the first time of asking.
Who was the scapegoat?
Vincent Janssen. The Dutchman was signed to provide support and competition for Harry Kane, but Janssen took until April to score his first Premier League goal from open play for the club.
Next season’s target must be…
To win a trophy. Tottenham have done superbly well over the last two years, but now they must realise their potential by adding silverware to their fine performances. That will be difficult.
Fan happiness rating 9/10
Overall achievement grade B+
WATFORD
What were expectations?
A comfortable mid-table position away from the threat of relegation and a sense of progression on the pitch. The club wanted a definable improvement on the listless and stagnant end to Quique Flores’ tenure. And invested in the players to do so.
... and what was the reality?
Watford ground their way to the magical 40-point mark with games to spare, but then failed to collect another point for the rest of the season. The run-in was diabolical but not out of character for a team that would occasionally spark to life but were too often shapeless and unimaginative. A raft of injuries, baffling inconsistency and an unpopular head coach contributed to a largely frustrating season.
How did the manager do?
Walter Mazzarri’s initial willingness to change tactics bode well, but faded all too quickly in favour of attrition. With apparent training ground bust-ups, underuse of promising players and a failure to learn English that left fans feeling distant, it was no surprise that his tenure came to a swift end.
Best player
You wonder how many extra points Watford would have if Roberto Pereyra hadn’t been ruled out with cruciate ligament damage. But either through injury or inconsistency, no Watford player stood out. Troy Deeney scored important goals but often cut a frustrated figure, Heurelho Gomes was solid in goal and Seb Prodl impressed in defence. Most promising was French midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, whose form when coming into the team late in the season made you wonder why he was nearly shipped out.
Worst player
Odion Ighalo. The likeable Nigerian who set the Premier League alight last season was a clumsy and selfish shadow of his former self. That he was sold to China for an enormous transfer fee in January will at least be of solace to the club’s accountants.
High point
A thumping 3-1 win over Manchester United at Vicarage Road promised much in the early stages of the season. Then a fierce and unexpected mid-season victory over Arsenal away from home snapped a poor run of results.
Low point
Brutal thrashings at the hands of Tottenham and Liverpool were no fun, neither was a meek surrender to Millwall in the FA Cup. But the real nadir came in a 1-0 loss to Stoke at Vicarage Road. One of the most insipid and cynical games the Premier League has mustered.
Who was the scapegoat?
Mazzarri. The Italian’s flaws are clear and few at Vicarage Road will be sorry to see him go. But the team’s habit of disappearing in less glamorous fixtures can’t rest with the manager alone.
Next season's target must be...
A much improved team and a real sense of progression. Survival in the Premier League for a club like Watford is no mean feat, but there is the increasing worry that there is a lack of direction of the pitch. The next Watford manager will need to bring character and consistency to a fragmented squad
Fan happiness rating 5/10
Overall achievement grade D
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
What were expectations?
Tony Pulis had highlighted a good FA Cup and a top-10 league finish as progress, with many of the club's Academy youngsters emerging into the first-team.
... and what was the reality?
West Brom will fall short of their highest-ever Premier League points total but a top-10 finish is still satisfactory. They have tailed off in recent months but Pulis's squad size is one of the smallest in the league.
How did the manager do?
Pulis has never been relegated as a manager and is now setting his sights higher. There will be accusations that his teams drop off when they reach 40 points but he has worked well with the resources available.
Best player
Ben Foster is no longer available for England but is undoubtedly one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League and arguably under-rated. He has been the best performer of the season, just ahead of the the indefatigable Jonny Evans.
Worst player
It feels harsh to criticise Salomon Rondon, who has endured personal problems off the field, but he has appeared to be carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders with only one goal in 2017.
High point
Pulis always relishes his contests with Arsene Wenger and the 3-1 win over Arsenal in March was a brilliant performance, with Albion exposing all the weaknesses in their opponents.
Low point
The 2-0 home defeat to Palace was a day to forget and, the Arsenal game aside, kick-started Albion's disappointing end to the campaign.
Who was the scapegoat?
Darren Fletcher has been hugely influential again this season but maybe not as effective and there are grumbles from the West Brom supporters over his regular inclusion.
Next season's target must be...
Signing some more players to guarantee Pulis strength in depth could lead to a decent cup run - which the head coach craves - and another season away from the bottom three.
Fan happiness rating 7/10
Overall achievement grade C-
WEST HAM UNITED
What were expectations?
West Ham had lofty ambitions of their new London Stadium helping them to challenge for European qualification and to see the team embark on a run in one of the cups.
... and what was the reality?
Almost the exact opposite. The new stadium proved difficult to settle in and West Ham briefly flirted with relegation during a dismal season in which they have hung around the bottom half.
How did the manager do?
Slaven Bilic faced a difficult task to move West Ham from Upton Park and it was not made easier by star player Dimitri Payet downing tools and demanding to leave. In the circumstances, he has not done badly.
Best player
Manuel Lanzini. With Payet returning to Marseille in January, West Ham badly needed someone else to provide some magic and Lanzini has underlined that he is more than capable of doing that.
Worst player
Simone Zaza. Having promised their fans a huge striker signing, West Ham duly loaned in Italian international Zaza and he was so bad that he had to be loaned out elsewhere in January after failing to score a goal.
High point
The 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur that effectively handed the Premier League title to Chelsea. It was the first time the London Stadium really came alive all season.
Low point
West Ham fans fighting among themselves and with club stewards during the early weeks of the season as supporters failed to acclimatise to their new home and the club struggled to cope.
Who was the scapegoat?
Dimitri Payet went from hero to villain, as the Frenchman’s sulking and desire to leave was blamed for much of what went wrong at West Ham this season.
Next season’s target must be…
To show that the London Stadium can be a home and get back to putting visiting teams on the back foot. As a club, West Ham need to rediscover their mojo.
Fan happiness rating 5/10
Overall achievement grade D