The bookies may be sceptical, but outspoken former manager Neil Warnock insists Norwich City will survive in the rough and tumble world of the Premier League.

The 66-year-old says City are better equipped than Championship winners Bournemouth and runners-up Watford to last the pace in the top flight.

'I think they were the best squad in the league and really should have gone up automatically, if they hadn't had such a bad start,' said Warnock, pictured.

'I don't see them signing too many players, and I think they might establish themselves for a few years if they get a bit of luck.'

Canaries boss Alex Neil says he wants to keep the backbone of his team, which was packed with players with top flight experience – and Warnock believes that is key.

'Bournemouth have done well and they've got the support of the chairman,' added Warnock. 'Watford have as well, but it's how they'll get new players to fit in. It does destroy a bit of team spirit, bringing new players in, when other lads have got you there. It will be interesting to see how all the managers cope.

'At the end of August, when that window closes in the Premier League, you're on your own. You can't go and loan someone like in the Championship or the lower divisions.

'And it's so hard. I remember at Sheffield United, we lost three centre-halves in a week in October. We had six weeks without a centre-half. You can't do it at that level. You've got to have a good squad with depth in all areas.'

Neil Warnock was talking to http://news.bwin.com/en/