IT is my opinion that Wolves have a squad capable of winning silverware this year.

'Capable' is the key word because everything has to come together - some of which is beyond the club's control - in order for Wolves to end the longest run in their history without a trophy in the cabinet.

Breaking it down, the attitude, commitment and effort of the players must match their ability, enthusiasm and desire.

The pack will need to dominate and go forward, the backs will need to finish clinically when opportunities arise.

Wolves will need to show they have character when the chips are down.

Throw some good fortune into the mix, avoiding too many serious injuries and getting the rub of the green with referees.

Add to that the patience and fanatical backing of supporters with high expectations, and the players' coping strategies if pressure mounts from results not going their way.

I don't blame some supporters for denying themselves the right to feel excited because of the number of false dawns they may believe they have witnessed over the years.

However, my optimism is fuelled by the vibe I have picked up behind the scenes.

There is a belief and confidence in the air from players who have had nothing but praise for Paul Cullen's recruitment and the general freshening up process brought about by the appointments of assistant coach Jimmy Lowes and head conditioner Paul Stridgeon.

Also, the friendly matches revealed evidence of the fitness work, with extra muscle bulk on players who should benefit from it, and I've heard players say they feel stronger and fitter than ever before.

These are all good signs and I predict 2007 Grand Finalists Leeds Rhinos and St Helens will be the only sides to finish above them in the Super League III table.

Neither Leeds or Saints have brought in any new blood, just promoting from their own Academy ranks where necessary.

That shows the confidence in their squads and the stability they are enjoying just gives them a head start over the likes of Warrington and Hull, who have joined Wolves in recruiting quality talent from overseas.

Hull will be Wolves' nearest rival for third spot, with Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls battling for the final two play-off places in my view.

Expect some shock results in promoted Castleford's favour early on - much in the same way as Hull Kingston Rovers last year.

Opponents will be more aware of Rovers this year and having 11 newcomers they could struggle for wins early on, but I envisage Harlequins finishing bottom of the ladder this time round.

Huddersfield Giants will miss the departed Brad Drew more than they would possibly care to admit, while Wakefield will be more cold than hot now that playmaker Ben Jeffries has joined Bradford.

Catalans Dragons will again be tough on their own patch but the growth from last year's appearance in the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley could be cancelled out by the loss of their retired talisman Stacey Jones.