Millwall
After participating in two consecutive seasons in the Npower Championship, it now seems that Millwall are an established Npower Championship outfit. After returning to the second tier in 2010/2011, Millwall have pleasantly gone about their business in impressive fashion, by finishing comfortably in their last two seasons. In the 2012/2013 season Millwall will be hoping to continue their trend and remain in and around the mid-table places, some might think a relegation battle is in on the cards for the Lions; however I think they are capable of avoiding a relegation scrap. Millwall are an accomplished outfit with very good players, they aren’t the most exciting team in the division but they will get the job done, many players impressed last season including Darius Henderson who notched up 15 league goals, while Liam Trotter was a pivotal part of the Lions midfield. Millwall also look impressive on the wings, with James Henry and Chris Taylor occupying them, while Andy Keogh will assist Darius Henderson on the goalscoring side of things. Millwall are an accomplished Npower Championship team, they may well struggle in parts this season, but they should avoid a relegation battle. Prediction 18th 

Nottingham Forest
After last season’s difficult season off the pitch, and dismal season on it, it has been a very positive summer at the City Ground. The Al-Hawasi family were appointed the new owners of the club, and Sean O’Driscoll has been installed as the new manager, after Steve Cotterill was relieved of his duties in July. O’Driscoll has been given serious amounts of money to spend on new players, and all of his signings so far have been very positive. Central midfield architect Adlene Guedioura has made a permanent switch to the City Ground, while O’Driscoll has replaced the departing defenders with new ones. Nottingham Forest’s new defence will have to adapt very quickly, or they could have another poor start to a campaign, Sam Hutchinson, Dan Harding, Danny Collins, Greg Halford and Daniel Ayala will all be part of the new makeshift defence, while young 18 year old prodigy of Jamaal Lascelles could make his major breakthrough this season. Nottingham Forest are capable of a top six finish, but the team may well take time to gel, understandably Forest should improve on last season’s dreadful 19th placed finish, as the top ten looks to be the most likely aspect in this campaign. Prediction 10th

Peterborough United
Peterborough had a very successful return to the Npower Championship last season, after they finished in a respectable 18th place. The 2012/2013 campaign may well be a tougher obstacle for Peterborough United, the league has grown in quality as more teams will be fighting it out for a place in the play-offs, for the Posh a top six finish is highly unlikely, and the best they could hope for is another sustainable mid-table finish. Darren Ferguson has had a change in fortunes, as he has so far kept hold of prize assets Grant McCann and George Boyd despite placing them on the transfer list; however last season’s number one goalkeeper Joe Lewis, has departed to Cardiff City. Peterborough are a talented side when on the attack, but the defence has a number of frailties, captain Gabriel Zakuani is the focal point of the Posh defence, but his fellow defensive counterparts may well struggle this season. Peterborough should be relatively strong in midfield, with new signing Michael Bostwick looking to impress in his first campaign at London Road; however the tricky winger of Paul Taylor has been the subject of a move away from the club. Second season syndrome may well occur at London Road, Peterborough are a good attacking outfit, but many sides are better equipped than them this season, as relegation to Npower League 1 looks to be a possibility. Prediction 23rd

Sheffield Wednesday
On the final day of the 2011/2012 campaign, Sheffield Wednesday found themselves promoted back to the Npower Championship, by battling to the final automatic promotion spot, at the expense of rivals Sheffield United. Sheffield Wednesday will want a comfortable campaign in this season’s Npower Championship; however on paper the squad doesn’t look strong enough to challenge amongst the league’s elite. It could well be a demanding season at Hillsborough, but manager Dave Jones has vast experience in this league, and could well be the difference between success and failure. Jones has made numerous signings over the summer including defenders Joe Mattock and Anthony Gardner, while new striker Chris Maguire has a point to prove after failing to make a breakthrough at Derby County. The one to watch for Sheffield Wednesday this season though, will be the exciting winger of Michail Antonio, who impressed the Hillsborough faithful with his skill, flair and match winning performances, the 22 old year has also made his loan move permanent ahead of the 2012/2013 campaign. Sheffield Wednesday will be hoping for solid season in the Npower Championship, but so far Dave Jones’s signings are underwhelming, while Gary Madine may well struggle to adapt to higher level league football. A relegation battle may well be on the cards, but relegation itself is unlikely. Prediction 21st

Watford
Like a few Npower Championship sides, Watford have also made serious changes to their staff and team ahead of the new Football League season. Sean Dyche who impressed as manager in 2011/2012, was sacked by Watford’s new owners, as they laid down their own foundations and appointed the respectable Italian Gianfranco Zola as the new manager. Watford have huge aspirations for the next couple of years, as they try and build a team that is capable of promotion, this campaign however may well be all about consistency as a stable season in the Npower Championship is the most likely outcome. Watford have brought in a number of loan signings from the Pozzo family’s other owned clubs, as Almen Abdi, Steve Leo Beleck, Matej Vydra and Alexandre Geijo all join from Italian side Udinese, while Ikechi Anya and Czech Republic international Daniel Pudil join from Granada. Some of these loan signings may well impress at Vicarage Road, while some may well struggle to adapt to English football; however it could well be a risk worth taking. It will also be a big season for central defender Fitz Hall, as he looks to fill the shoes of the highly rated Adrian Mariappa, who unfortunately departed to Premier League Reading. Finally winger Sean Murray, who burst onto the scene last season with a number of impressive displays, will play an even bigger role in 2012/2013, the skillful wideman will be an essential part of the Watford side, as his dangerous plays and goalscoring ability could well set the league alight. It should be a comfortable season for Watford, but their fans shouldn’t expect immediate fireworks, a mediocre mid-table campaign is the most likely outcome. Prediction 14th

Wolverhampton Wanderers
It wasn’t a major surprise to see Wolves relegated back the Npower Championship, after a horrendous campaign in the Premier League. Wolves could well find themselves back on the yo-yo pattern of promotion and relegation, as the West Midlands side are understandably one of the favourites for automatic promotion this season. Bouncing straight back into the Premier League is a huge possibility, despite the surprising appointment of the unknown Stale Solbakken, as the Wolves board plumped for a change in contrast as they appointed their first ever foreign manager. Solbakken has a lot of pressure to deal with, as he will see many players leave the club over the next couple of weeks including key figures, such as Stephen Ward, Matt Jarvis, Steven Fletcher and possibly Kevin Doyle. Despite these potential losses, Wolves will still have a very established side capable of promotion. All eyes will be on big summer signing Bjorn Bergmann Sigurdarson, who joins the club for a fee of £2.4 million, while Sylvan Ebanks-Blake will try and re discover the form which made him the Championships top goalscorer in 2008/2009. The fans will also be keen on seeing the progression of the youngsters, midfielders David Davis and Anthony Forde are most likely to feature this season, as they try and claim a place amongst the starting eleven. Wolverhampton Wanderers are a very strong outfit, and some may say like fellow relegated sides Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers, the Npower Championship is too good for them, Solbakken and his side should be amongst the top six for most of the season, while promotion itself is highly likely. Prediction 2nd

Final League Table Prediction
1)Bolton Wanderers
2)Wolverhampton Wanderers
3)Cardiff City
4)Birmingham City
5)Blackburn Rovers
6)Leeds United
7)Blackpool
8)Leicester City
9)Middlesbrough
10)Nottingham Forest
11)Hull City
12)Derby County
13)Brighton and Hove Albion
14)Watford
15)Huddersfield Town
16)Burnley
17)Charlton Athletic
18)Millwall
19)Crystal Palace
20)Ipswich Town
21)Sheffield Wednesday
22)Bristol City
23)Peterborough United
24)Barnsley

Huddersfield Town
After years of grueling work, Huddersfield Town finally found themselves promoted back to the second tier of English football, after a penalty shootout play-off win against Sheffield United. Huddersfield have been knocking on the door of Championship promotion for a great period of time, and at the end of last season it finally opened. Former Leeds manager Simon Grayson has brought change and success to the Terriers ever since his appointment in late February, as the club seem to be on the upward spiral. There has been talk of a possible promotion challenge at the Galpharm Stadium this season, back to back promotion is high on the agenda, and with a relatively young and talented squad, Huddersfield Town are capable of flirting with a top six finish. Grayson has made a number of excellent additions in the summer transfer window, central midfielders Olivier Norwood and Adam Clayton both join the club, while the exciting and tricky winger of Sean Scannell, also flies into Grayson’s reckoning, after being signed from Championship rivals Crystal Palace. The main resource this season will be goalscoring hitman Jordan Rhodes, the 22 year old is one of the football league’s hottest properties after scoring 40 goals in all competitions last season, Rhodes has been the subject of a possible move to Blackburn Rovers; however Huddersfield Town will do everything in their power to keep him at the Galpharm Stadium. Huddersfield are an exciting side and they could produce outstanding performances in the 2012/2013 campaign, they will be compelling to watch but I believe a comfortable mid-table finish is more sustainable this season. Prediction 15th

Hull City
It’s been a puzzling time at Hull City recently, Nick Barmby was relieved of his duties due to comments made about the board and transfers, only to be replaced by the highly regarded Steve Bruce. The sacking of Barmby was surprising, but the appointment of Bruce is a formidable change, with Premier League experience the 51 year old should have a successful reign as the manager of Hull City, as he attempts to get the Tigers promoted back to the promise land. Bruce has made some solid acquisitions, including goalkeeper Ben Amos who joins on a season-long loan, winger Sone Aluko who made a major impact at Rangers last season and German striker Nick Proschwitz who signed for a fee of £2.6 million. Hull on paper look to be an impressive side, but they will have to battle it out with a number of teams for a top six finish, as I believe the league may be too demanding for them. They will be in and around the top six, but could well miss out on a place in the play-offs; however if Robert Koren continues his good form after signing a new contract, and the striking trio of Fryatt, McLean and Proschwitz find the net on a consistent basis, a place in the play-offs may not be out of reach after all. Prediction 11th

Ipswich Town
Ipswich Town manager Paul Jewell recently admitted it’s been a frustrating summer at Portman Road, the transfer activity has been a discouraging sign as new signings have been few and far between. Scott Loach and the unknown youngster of Elliott Hewitt are the only cash signings this summer, while Luke Chambers has joined on a free transfer, and Massimo Luongo only joins on a loan deal. Jewell is hoping to do more movement before the transfer window shuts at the end of August, but the former Wigan manager knows that he may be in for a frustrating time. Ipswich are predicted to struggle in the 2012/2013 campaign, the squad doesn’t look strong enough and a possible relegation battle maybe surprisingly on the cards. Michael Chopra will be the main source for goals, while Jay Emmanuel-Thomas will be pivotal from midfield, also keep an eye out for left-back Aaron Cresswell who impressed during last season. Challenging times may well be in store for Ipswich Town, as a lowly placed finish looks to be on the horizon. Prediction 20th

Leeds United
After a seriously mediocre season at Elland Road, manager Neil Warnock now takes charge of Leeds United in his first full season in charge. Warnock can now draw out his foundations, and hopefully turn Leeds United’s fortunes around from a mid-table 14th position to a possible top six finish. Warnock has made major changes over the summer by signing an incredible eleven players, while ten players have departed Elland Road, including the talented Robert Snodgrass who has switched a division to Premier League Norwich City. Leicester City proved last season that signing a hatful of players can have a negative effect, but when Warnock is concerned he often gets his teams to gel, and play appealing football in a small amount of time. Leeds United should have a successful campaign under Neil Warnock; however their home form must improve as they lost 12 games in all competitions at Elland Road last season. The duo of Paddy Kenny and David Norris will be valuable signings, while Ross McCormack and Luciano Becchio should perform a dangerous partnership. I really rate Leeds United’s chances of a play-off place, as I can see them finishing amongst the top six this season. Prediction 6th

Leicester City
After being installed as the favourites for the Championship title last season, big spenders Leicester City simply underperformed. This summer Nigel Pearson has quietly gone about his business, in a professional and uncomplicated manner, as the 48 year old has cleared out a serious amount of dead wood, and made a number of shrewd young signings. Leicester City may well slip under the radar this season, as the expectations of the club are not as extreme as last season. Many players will need to improve on their performances in this campaign, attacking midfielder Andy King had an awfully poor season, while Danny Drinkwater needs to find consistency in his performances. The attacking threat from the wings will be the most dangerous part of Leicester City’s game, Ben Marshall is the one to watch for the Foxes, while Anthony Knockaert looks to be a great piece of business by manager Nigel Pearson. Leicester City look in reasonably good shape; however many teams look stronger in vital positions, Nigel Pearson is a very good manager but yet again Leicester City may well miss out on a top six finish by the skin of their teeth. Prediction 8th

Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough had a fairly accomplished 2011/2012 campaign, as the team from Teesside finished in 7th place. Tony Mowbray has done an excellent job as the manager of Middlesbrough, he has got the side playing attractive football and has improved their league position. Boro should be involved in the play-off mix this season, Mowbray has a well structured side that is capable of promotion and a solid campaign at the Riverside is more than likely. Most of the summer signings all have immense quality, while some are slightly uninspiring, but on a positive note it will be exciting to watch the trio of Grant Leadbitter, Emmanuel Ledesma and Mustapha Carayol perform in a Middlesbrough shirt. Jason Steele is a talented goalkeeper who could well have massive season, while Marvin Emnes and Lukas Jutkiewicz will want to improve their goalscoring tally. The Smoggies will be a dangerous outfit, and a consistent campaign under Mowbray looks to be the likely outcome, a top six finish isn’t out of reach but don’t be surprised to see them miss out again. Prediction 9th

Bristol City
Last season yet again proved that Bristol City are slowly on the decline as an Npower Championship side. The 2011/2012 campaign proved to be their worst campaign, since returning to the second tier of English football five years ago, as Derek McInnes’s side finished in a lowly 20th place. Not much is expected of Bristol City in the 2012/2013 season, a relegation battle may well occur and relegation itself is a huge possibility. Over the summer McInnes has brought in some valuable players, including former Chelsea midfielder Jody Morris, goalkeeper Tom Heaton and young Irish left-back Greg Cunningham. These signings will benefit the side over the forthcoming season, but it’s in the forwards role where Bristol City are lacking serious quality, Brett Pitman will more than likely score the majority of Bristol City’s goals; however he will be very short of assistance, as target man John Stead and 24 year old Ryan Taylor, are unlikely to make major impacts. Bristol City could well be involved in a relegation battle this season, as I sadly believe their six year stay in the Npower Championship will come to an end. Prediction 22nd

Burnley
Last season was no more than a consistent and stable one at Turf Moor, like fellow mid-table sides the final months of the season were nothing more than subdued. This season Burnley will be hoping for better, but with the league being even harder this year, another mid-table finish is expected from the Lancashire outfit. After the departure of Jay Rodriguez to Premier League newcomers Southampton, Charlie Austin will play an influential leading role for Burnley this season, there will be huge expectance on Austin to deliver the goals this season, while fellow strikers Danny Ings and Sam Vokes, will also play crucial roles. Meanwhile new signing Jason Shackell will captain the side, the sturdy defender will play a pivotal role in the heart of the Burnley defence, while the young pairing of Luke O’Neill and Joseph Mills have also been signed to bring a wealth of depth to the defence. The Clarets should have another solid and comfortable campaign in the Npower Championship, Eddie Howe is a highly rated manager and his current side are more than capable of staying in this division. Prediction 16th

Cardiff City
Disappointingly Cardiff City yet again missed out on promotion to the Premier League, as they felt the force of the demanding spectacle that is the Npower Championship play-offs. This season will be no different, a promotion challenge is this year’s assignment and nothing more than a top six finish will be seen as a failure. Cardiff City are one of the favourites for promotion this season, as Malky Mackay has yet again made serious adjustments to his side, the back four relatively stay the same despite the departure of Anthony Gerrard to Huddersfield Town. Joe Lewis has been snapped up from Peterborough United, as competition for the number one jersey, currently occupied by the highly regarded David Marshall. The most significant changes however have come within the forward line, the experienced Heider Helguson was snapped up on a free deal, while Mackay pulled two signings out of the hat, by bringing in Slovenian international Etein Velikonja and Cardiff born Craig Bellamy who rejoins the club after a loan deal in the 2010/2011 season, this time on a permanent basis. Cardiff City look well equipped for the campaign ahead, Mackay has yet again made aspiring signings, and with Peter Whittingham remaining at the club, the Bluebirds are a good bet for automatic promotion. Prediction 3rd

Charlton Athletic
It was a terrific 2011/2012 season at the Valley, as Charlton Athletic cruised to the League 1 title by surpassing the 100 point mark. Chris Powell has revitalised all of Charlton’s hopes since being appointed manager in January 2011, the former Charlton player has had a massive impact as the manager of the Addicks, as the former Premier League side look to be heading in the right direction under the well respected Powell. Charlton have hardly made any first team changes, as the summer transfer window so far has been a frustrating one, so far only Lawrie Wilson, Jordan Cook and Salim Kerkar have joined the London club. Chris Powell knows how to get the best out of his players, on paper they aren’t the most talented side in the division, but Charlton’s work rate should pay off in this 2012/2013 campaign. When promoted many fans believed that Charlton would be possible promotion candidates; however looking at the current team mid table stability may well be on the cards for Chris Powell’s side. They should pick up some very positive results, but at the end of the day I can’t see them pushing for promotion. Prediction 17th

Crystal Palace
In recent seasons for a team capable of promotion, Crystal Palace have seriously underperformed. They are slowly on the demise as a capable top six team, and are gradually heading to the forgotten pit of constant relegation battles. Last season the Eagles yet again found themselves finishing in a low but stable finish, and this season it could well be more of the same. Dougie Freedman has lost three crucial players over the summer months, the exciting winger Sean Scannell, the seriously talented Darren Ambrose, and young up and coming right-back Nathaniel Clyne have all departed from Selhurst Park. Freedman has also struggled to replace the fundamental trio, with his major signing coming in the shape of the versatile Joel Ward. Crystal Palace still remain with a mixture of youth and experience, season campaigners of Julian Speroni, Paddy McCarthy and Owen Garvan remain on Freedman’s books, while youngsters Wilfried Zaha, Jonathan Parr and Jonathan Williams are expected to make enormous impacts this season. Crystal Palace should find themselves safe this season, but a relegation battle is possible, Zaha needs to have another incredible campaign, or Crystal Palace could seriously struggle. Prediction 19th

Derby County
Derby County and Nigel Clough are looking to improve every season, last season Clough set out his benchmarks and he succeeded, as his side improved from a 19th place finish in 2010/2011, to a 12th place finish in 2011/2012. Clough’s next target will be to reach the top ten, and Derby are more than capable of succeeding. Clough’s only real loss this summer is central defender Jason Shackell who has headed to Burnley, but the 46 year old has found a suitable and efficient replacement in the force of Richard Keogh from Coventry City. Clough has also improved his midfield by claiming two talented acquisitions, as Michael Jacobs and Paul Coutts sign from Northampton Town and Preston North End respectively. The Rams also look more stable in attack, striker Theo Robinson will be crucial this season, expect him to make a massive impact in this season’s Npower Championship. The top ten beckons for Derby County, but I believe they will just miss out again, they have a decent side but it’s not exceptional, mid-table is more than likely in this campaign. Prediction 12th

Barnsley
Many pundits have predicted Barnsley, as certain relegation candidates this season. The Yorkshire side had an excellent first half of the 2011/2012 season, but after the departure of Ricardo Vaz Te to West Ham United, their performances seriously deteriorated as they found themselves languishing in 21st place at the end of the campaign. With the standard of the Npower Championship looking even higher this year, Barnsley could well find themselves embarked in a relegation battle this season. Over the summer Keith Hill has taken massive risks on most of his signings, including goalkeeping journeyman Ben Alnwick, the hit and miss Kelvin Etuhu, badboy Jacob Mellis and former Premier League reject Mido. The trio of Etuhu, Mellis and Mido will all be hoping they can offer something to the Tykes this season, Etuhu is a pacey winger while Mellis who previously had a loan spell at Barnsley is an attacking minded central midfielder. The major signing of the summer though, is Premier League castoff Mido who has already been confirmed injured for the first three months of the season. The most important task for the season will be staying in the Npower Championship, Barnsley will want to prove doubters wrong, but with a relatively vulnerable defence it could be a long hard 2012/2013 campaign at Oakwell. Prediction – 24th

Birmingham City
It’s been all change at St Andrews over the summer months, the highly rated Chris Hughton departed to Premier League side Norwich City, while former Huddersfield manager Lee Clark was appointed as Hughton’s successor. Clark faces a demanding task of trying to emulate Hughton’s successful time at Birmingham City, the West Midlands side finished in 4th place last season, and nothing less than a top six finish will be seen as a failure. Clark has strengthened his side extremely well, with his only major loss this summer being central midfielder Jordan Mutch, who has made the switch over to Championship rivals Cardiff City. Clark has managed to capture the highly rated duo of Ravel Morrison and Ben Gordon on loan deals, from West Ham United and Chelsea respectively, while he has also snapped up experienced trio of Hayden Mullins, Darren Ambrose and Peter Lovenkrands. The focus of attention though this season, will be on two up and coming youngsters – 18 year old midfielder Nathan Redmond and 19 year old goalkeeper Jack Butland. Last season Redmond made an immediate impact, with his exciting flair and his ability on the ball the 18 year old became one of the most talked about talents in the whole of the football league. Meanwhile Jack Butland has had a whirlwind of a summer, it all began when he was chosen as the replacement for John Ruddy in Roy Hodgson’s Euro 2012 England squad, since then it has become apparent that he will be Birmingham’s first choice goalkeeper for the 2012/2013 campaign. Birmingham City have a vast array of talents on their books, as well as a number of experienced players, if Lee Clark gets his side to gel and play attractive attacking football, the play-offs yet again are a certainty. Prediction 4th

Blackburn Rovers
It’s been a turbulent rollercoaster at Ewood Park over the past year, new owners and a new manager have all caused friction between the fans and the board, supporters have protested, supporters have boycotted games but all to no prevail. The owners Venky’s and manager Steve Kean are still standing tall, even though they found there side relegated to the Championship, as their eleven year stay in the top flight of English football, came to an abrupt and sour ending. Blackburn Rovers will now have to concentrate on life in the second tier, undoubtedly they are one of the firm favourites for automatic promotion this season, but where the Npower Championship is concerned, bouncing straight back up into the Premier League has always been harder as it seems. Steve Kean maybe disliked amongst the majority of Blackburn fans, but over the summer he has made a number of positive signings, the experienced veteran of Danny Murphy is a very shrewd signing for Blackburn Rovers, while Kean has also acquitted the defensive midfield powerhouse of Dickson Etuhu from London side Fulham. While other signings include Nuno Gomes, Colin Kazim-Richards and Leon Best. Blackburn Rovers will be forced to lose many key players by the end of August, but they will still have a strong enough squad to challenge for promotion. The fans are not optimistic about manager Steve Kean, but they should be optimistic about their current side. They look seriously strong all over the field and a place in the top six is expected. Prediction 5th

Blackpool
Blackpool have had an exhilarating rollercoaster over the past three seasons, which has made them one of the most exciting and consistent teams in the Npower Championship, as the eccentric Ian Holloway will be hoping he can guide the Tangerines to yet another top six finish. Blackpool will be there or thereabouts this season, with their entertaining attacking play the former Premier League side will yet again score a hatful of goals. The Npower Championship will be a more daunting prospect for the Seasiders in 2012/2013, the league looks even more demanding than last season, and they will need to play to the best of their ability, if they want to find themselves amongst the play-offs by the end of April. The only loss this summer was the long serving Keith Southern who headed to pastures new with Huddersfield Town, while Ian Holloway has made numerous changes to his midfield, by bringing in the trio of Isaiah Osbourne, Tiago Gomes and Scott Robertson. The reliable Blackpool defence has stayed the same, while the club have so far been able to hold onto prize assets, Matt Phillips and Tom Ince, the tricky wingers will be fundamental part of the Blackpool side. The Seasiders are an exceptionally talented and consistent side, but this season will be an extremely difficult task, they will be in and around the top six for most of the campaign, but they may well fall short of a place in the play-offs. Prediction 7th

Bolton
Last season was a major shock at the Reebok Stadium, the consistent Bolton Wanderers found themselves falling from the heights of familiar mid-table to the dark cauldron of the relegation zone. After struggling in the bottom three for most of the campaign, Bolton found themselves surprisingly relegated at the end of the 2011/2012 season. There is no point making excuses, but I strongly believe if Kevin Davies scored more goals, and the duo of Stuart Holden and Lee Chung-Yong were fit, the Trotters would of probably stayed up. Like fellow Lancashire outfit Blackburn Rovers, Bolton’s eleven year stay in the Barclays Premier League came to a shocking and depressing end. This season though they have rightfully been installed as the pre season favourites, for the Npower Championship title. Bolton still have an exceptionally formidable squad, with many players still remaining from the side which got relegated, some of those players will more than likely leave by the end of August, but players like Darren Pratley who had resounding success with Swansea, in the Npower Championship will more than likely remain, aswell as defenders Zat Knight, David Wheater and Tim Ream. Bolton will also have to rely on a plethora of youthful talent, including 19 year old Arsenal loanee Benik Afobe who has impressed in Pre Season, and 21 year old Marvin Sordell who previously made an impact with Watford in this division. Bolton will be situated in unfamiliar surroundings this season, but they are more than capable of tackling the strenuous exercise that is the Npower Championship. Prediction 1st

Brighton and Hove Albion
The Seagulls had a comfortable return to the Npower Championship, after they finished 10th in their first season back in the second tier of English football for five years. Gus Poyet guided the side through an inconsistent campaign, as Brighton managed to reach the heights of the play-offs only to find themselves diminish down the League table and finish in 10th place, after a three game losing streak towards the end of last season. Yet again Brighton will be hoping for a stable campaign under Gus Poyet, who has made a number of important signings over the summer. The Uruguayan has strengthened in his weakest areas including goalkeeper and left-back, as the experienced Premier League duo of Tomasz Kuszczak and Wayne Bridge enter Poyet’s revolution. Many teams will be fighting it out for promotion this season, and Brighton could be one of them, great things are expected of this side in the next couple of years; however despite bringing in eye-catching signings I can’t see the Seagulls challenging for the play-offs just yet. Prediction 13th

The news of this unexpected signing filtered through this morning, as many French media outlets stated that Leicester City had completed the signing of the highly rated Knockaert. Early this afternoon Guingamp officially confirmed the move on their official website, as well as the player himself on his official facebook page. Knockaert is Nigel Pearson’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window.

The 20 year old had previously been linked with big summer moves, to the likes of Newcastle United, Montpellier and Benfica. After being linked with those clubs, this move is somewhat of a coup for Npower Championship side Leicester City.

Knockaert is a highly rated winger, who has a bright future ahead of him. He is also capable on playing either wing, as well as leading the line as a forward, he will give Leicester City numerous options this season.

A signing for the ladies I think…

Also despite Steve Bruce’s intentions of fending off interest for his top players, Leicester City are still in the driving seat to secure the services of Hull City midfielder Robert Koren. Pearson still wants to acquire an attacking midfielder, and Koren is the perfect target. Also only a couple of weeks ago, Koren stated that he would be interested in rekindling his relationship with his former manager Nigel Pearson, as Koren worked under the 48 year old at Hull City. Despite being told not to submit bids for the likes of Chester, Liam Rosenior and Cameron Stewart, the Foxes are all set to submit another bid for Robert Koren, and if negotiations materialise a deal could well be completed within the next two weeks.

So far this summer Sven Goran Eriksson has strengthened his side by requiring 11 new players, with more than £10 million being spent on those respective signings. David Nugent has already entered the fold, while young Jeffrey Schlupp has recently hit the headlines after a hat-trick against Rotherham in the Carling Cup; however with only Martyn Waghorn and Steve Howard as potential back-up to lone striker David Nugent, Sven Goran Eriksson has stated that he needs to sign another striker.

After much speculation over possible targets, it now seems that Tottenham striker Robbie Keane and West Brom frontman Simon Cox are on the top of Sven’s shortlist. Keane has been dispatched to many different clubs while in his spell with Tottenham, as he was sent out on loan to both West Ham United and SPL giants Celtic. This week however rumours have mounted that Robbie Keane is close to joining Leicester City, with a fee of around £3 million set to be agreed. Despite Keane saying that he wouldn’t be enthusiastic on a move to the Championship, it now looks as if he is willing to step down a division to join big spending Leicester City.

Meanwhile West Bromwich Albion striker Simon Cox is also rumoured to be on the move, with Shane Long, Peter Odemwingie and Marc Antoine Fortune currently ahead of Cox in the striking ranks at the Hawthorns, the highly rated frontman who nearly joined the Foxes a couple of seasons ago, could well be closing in on a move to the King Power Stadium. With Simon Cox likely to fall out of favour, a loan move to Leicester City is a highly possibility while a permanent deal is unlikely. Leeds United are also interested in the Republic of Ireland international; however a move to Leicester City could well materialise within the next week.

West Ham Preview
After a troublesome season in the Premier League West Ham found themselves relegated at the end of the 2010/2011 campaign, due to the dreadful performances the Hammers decided to take drastic action as they sacked Avram Grant on the day of their confirmed relegation. Now facing a testing task in the second tier of English football, co owners of David Gold and David Sullivan identified Sam Allardyce as the correct replacement for Grant. West Ham United’s main objective this season will be automatic promotion, the London side along with Leicester City are the early front runners for the Npower Championship title, and with Allardyce stating his intentions of promotion nothing more than a top two finish would be seen as a failure. On paper the Hammers do have the strongest side in the division, and with new signings in Kevin Nolan and Matt Taylor now joining Allardyce’s revolution adding players of their calibre will only make the squad better, despite some unfortunate losses. With the early favourites for promotion tag looming over their heads, will West Ham United succeed in 2011/2012 or will the London club crack under pressure and fall short of promotion?

Key Players
After plummeting into the second tier of English football, it was always suspected that West Ham United would lose many talented players in the summer transfer window. Most notable absentees from this year’s squad include of Matt Upson, Demba Ba and Thomas Hitzlsperger all of which have or are on the verge of signing for new clubs. West Ham will take a fair few positives into the forthcoming season, as influential players in Scott Parker and Carlton Cole are yet to head to pastures new. Two England internationals starting the new campaign at Upton Park, is definitely an added bonus for the West Ham fans. Meanwhile the Hammers have invested in some quality signings; both Kevin Nolan and Matt Taylor have joined the club from Newcastle and Bolton respectively. Nolan who is a box to box midfielder, proved to be an essential part of Newcastle United‘s squad last season as he starred in a comfortable campaign at St James’s Park. Matt Taylor found himself ousted out of the Bolton Wanderers set up, despite playing huge roles at both Portsmouth and Bolton, Taylor has now switched down a division. With an immaculate left foot, Matt Taylor will prove to be a key player for the Hammers this season. Finally another key source to West Ham United’s season will be central midfielder Mark Noble; highly likely that he will stay at Upton Park in 2011/2012, Noble has amazing stamina levels and wonderful passing ability, a fair few will say that a player of Mark Noble’s calibre is Premier League quality. West Ham United have experience and youth throughout the team, they are the current favourites for promotion and I wouldn’t bet against them securing an automatic promotion spot by May 2012.

Manager – Sam Allardyce
After David Gold and David Sullivan relieved Avram Grant of his duties due to relegation, they quickly made a swift appointment and identified none other than Big Sam Allardyce, one of the most respected and high profile English managers. The 56 year old comes into this job after a break away from the game, after being sacked by Blackburn early last season, a consistent manager and one who has produced plenty of success at different clubs, Hammers fans should be delighted with this appointment. Allardyce has already snapped up Kevin Nolan from Newcastle, in what could be the signing of the Npower Championship, West Ham want promotion this season and due to Allardyce being in charge it’s highly possible.

Ins and Outs
Ins – Abdoulaye Faye(Stoke), Kevin Nolan(Newcastle), Matt Taylor(Bolton), Joey O’Brien(Bolton)

Outs – Anthony Edgar(Yeovil), Demba Ba(Newcastle), Manuel Da Costa(Lokomotiv Moscow), Radoslav Kovac(Basel), Kieron Dyer(Queens Park Rangers), Jonathan Spector(Birmingham), Danny Gabbidon(Released), Lars Jacobsen(Released), Matt Upson(Released), Thomas Hitzlsperger(Released)

Overall Thoughts
West Ham are the strongest side in this division, one of the most well known clubs in England the demise of West Ham United could well affect them this season. Allardyce though is an experienced manager who has done pleasingly well at a number of clubs, including Bolton and Blackburn Rovers, even though the Hammers will lose many key players as the summer transfer window progresses, Kevin Nolan is a fantastic buy and with some of the younger breed peaking through, they will also help West Ham to a possible promotion push. Some people won’t agree on my prediction, but I can honestly see the Hammers claiming Npower Championship silverware this season. Prediction – 1st

Watford Preview
Under the guidance of Malky Mackay Watford seemed to be turning over a new leaf, much like the success which they had when Aidy Boothroyd was in charge, Malky Mackay was beginning to bring the best of of a squad what on paper was fairly mediocre. The Hornets fared well amongst the top six for a period last season; however despite hitting those heights they eventually finished in 14th place. Yet again it showed just how consistent Watford were with Malky Mackay in charge, but that has now all changed as from this season the Hertfordshire sidle will be guided by a new manager. Mackay’s right hand man in Sean Dyche has now taken over the reigns at Vicarage Road, a very inexperienced coach Dyche will have plenty to contend with in 2011/2012. With last season’s top goalscorer Danny Graham departing to Swansea City, and midfielders Will Buckley and Don Cowie also heading for pastures new the Hornets have certainly been left with weaknesses in attack. Another consistent finish is highly unlikely, with departures set to affect Watford in a damaging way they could well be involved in a relegation scrap in 11/12.

Key Players
Last season’s key player in Danny Graham sadly departed Vicarage Road this summer, and with Will Buckley also moving to another club the phrase “match winners” are hard to identify this season. First of all though Graham’s strike partner for last season in Marvin Sordell made a startling impact as he netted some crucial goals in 10/11, Sordell is a player full of pace and his speed is an incredible weapon, the 20 year old ran plenty of teams ragged last season and now with Graham gone, Sordell will now have bigger fish to fry as he will be Watford’s key striker for the 11/12 campaign. Central midfielder and club captain John Eustace is a battling midfielder with plenty of experience, one of the Hornets key players last season, his influence from midfield was a crucial part to Watford’s successful campaign. Eustace is a keen passer of the ball who also loves to tackle; all eyes will be on Eustace as his determination to carry the side will be a decisive role in Watford’s season. Finally new signing Craig Forsyth could be one of the surprise signings of the Npower Championship, with Buckley and Cowie now at pastures new Forsyth could play a pivotal role for the Hornets.

Manager – Sean Dyche
Former Watford defender Sean Dyche is an unknown quantity when it comes to football management, a former Golden Boy himself Dyche has now taken over the reigns of his beloved Watford, in a bid to be a successful manager. Only 40 years of age the right hand man to Malky Mackay for the past two years, Dyche now takes his first steps into the unknown as he prepares to deal with one of his biggest challenges of his career. He has to face the loss of many players over the summer; however can a consistent Watford side push above their weight, or will Sean Dyche be a sinking failure at Vicarage Road, will he offer the Watford fans a season of impressive football, or will they be faced with a relegation battle?

Ins and Outs
Ins – Craig Forsyth(Dundee), David Mirfin(Scunthorpe), Mark Yeates(Sheffield Utd), Prince Buaben(Dundee United), Chris Iwelumo(Burnley), Carl Dickinson(Stoke)

Outs – Liam Henderson(York City), Will Buckley(Brighton), Danny Graham(Swansea), Nathan Ellington(Ipswich), Mat Sadler(Walsall), Don Cowie(Cardiff), Tom Aldred(Inverness), Rob Kieran(Released)

Overall Thoughts
Many transitional changes have happened at Vicarage Road this summer, but I can’t seem to find any postive movement involving the club. Losing Danny Graham, Will Buckley and Don Cowie is a potential nightmare; also losing a highly rated manager in Malky Mackay could have disastrous consequences. Watford have tried to replace the departures to the best of their ability; however unlike Graham new signing Chris Iwelumo will struggle to score 20 plus goals. It will be a demanding exercise for Watford this season, a relegation battle is imaginable but actual relegation isn’t, even though they are one of the favourties to struggle I can see them averting the deadly drop. Prediction – 20th

Reading Preview
Reading last season seemed like a brand new refurbished side, as they returned to the top six after missing out on the play-offs in the 2009/2010 campaign. The Royals truimphed in the Championship play-off semi finals before meeting Swansea City at Wembley for the prestigious prize of Premiership football; however despite a resounding effort by the Royals they were unfortunately toppled by Brendan Rodger’s Swansea side. After a positive season under the guidance of Brian McDermott, Reading will be hoping that the achievements of 2010/2011 were not a one off. Reading will now have to cope with the loss of captain Matt Mills, who joined Leicester City for a fee worth £5 million, also striker Shane Long has been the subject of a big money move away from the club, with plenty of Premier League sides touting for his services Reading were forced to slap a £7 million price tag on their deadly frontman. Reading are capable of striving to success but with only two new signings being made so far, the Royals may well miss out on a place in the play-offs this time around.

Key Players
With Reading having such an emphatic season under the guidance of Brian McDermott, many players played influential roles in the teams promotion challenge. One of which has now departed to Leicester City as last season’s captain Matt Mills was snapped up by the Foxes for a fee of £5 million; however Reading had many players who performed consistently well, one of which was striker Shane Long. Long had a tremendous goalscoring campaign in 10/11 as he scored a total of 28 goals in all competitions, one of the most potent strikers throughout the top four English divisions, the Irishman was highly lethal in front of goal, with interest mounting from Championship rivals West Ham and Leicester, Long may well head to pastures new in the next couple of weeks; however chairman John Madejski will do anything in his power to keep Long at Reading this season. Meanwhile the left side of the field certainly made an impression in the 10/11 campaign, as the duo of Ian Harte and Jobi McAnuff both put in excellent performances. The experienced Ian Harte clamied a place in the Npower Championship team of the year, after his excellent performances Reading fans will be hoping that Harte can produce the magic again this season. Finally Jobi McAnuff has been handed the captaincy role by manager Brian McDermott, with his progression being a main part of Reading football club, McAnuff has been an inspriation to the younger Reading generation, full of commitment and passion the former Watford winger will play a crucial role at the Madejski Stadium this year.

Manager – Brian McDermott
Apart from the Reading faithful football fans wouldn’t have heard of Brian McDermott, before he took charge of the Royals on a full time basis in December 2009. Many people would have underestimated the appointment of McDermott; however he soon showed the home fans that he was capable of running a former Premier League side. The 50 year old was full of surprises last season, as he remarkably guided Reading into the Npower Championship play-off final. McDermott will be hoping that he can re produce the quality he showed as first team boss in 10/11, and put all his rewards from last season into this season. Hopefully McDermott can guide Reading amongst the top six for a second consecutive Championship campaign.

Ins and Outs
Ins – Mikele Leigertwood(Queens Park Rangers), Bongani Khumalo(Tottenham)

Outs – Scott Davies(Crawley), Julian Kelly(Notts County), Ivar Ingimarsson(Ipswich), Matt Mills(Leicester), David Mooney(Released), Abdulai Bai-Baggie(Released)

Overall Thoughts
Reading may well endeavour a play-off challenge but whether or not they will be successful in their quest is another matter, as proven Reading are capable of challenging for the top six but due to the league being so intensely exciting, as competition get’s even more competitive Reading could well fail in their pursuit of promotion. They are a very reliable squad with players who can transform the side into a more enhanced unit; keeping Shane Long though is the most important task of all, if they fail in the mission to keep the frontman at the Madejski, Reading may even stumble to a mid-table finish. Prediction – 8th