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Words: David Beeden
It’s that time of year again when I try and predict where everyone will finish. I’m always honest enough to admit where I went wrong. To be fair, last season I didn't do too badly: I predicted the champions and also got United's position almost bang on. I predicted 2/3 relegation teams I think, but was way off on West Brom and Huddersfield, to name but a few.
It seems like the obvious tips are almost always the three coming down and those losing playoff sides. This year I’m not so sure on that usually safe forecasting. I think Norwich will be strong but lack the creativity of previous promotion campaigns. Burnley and Watford also have new men in charge. I am also not so sure on Huddersfield, Luton and - gulp - even the Blades. All have to adapt to losing arguably their best players and, in the Terriers’ case, their manager.
There will undoubtedly be some surprises, but I also think some of those well-coached sides with continuity, such as Millwall and Coventry, will do well, especially in an arguably weaker division.
As for the other end of the league, the three coming up seem to have different expectations. I expect Sunderland, with their behemoth of a stadium and fanbase, to be mid-table comfortably. Wigan I also expect to be fine, but Rotherham, having been ravaged of their leading men by our porkular foes up the road, could go straight down again. The likes of Reading and Birmingham will struggle again due to financial/boardroom issues.
In the middle section, there are so many teams that could finish anywhere between 10th and 18th. A lot of these are interchangeable, and more signings or poor/good starts could see some of these sides flip-flop around.
Anyway, without further ado, here goes nothing. Please add comments/debate below.
Remember, it’s just an opinion: I tend to generally be conservative with my prognosis for United, so bear that in mind. However, my record on predicting our final place is pretty good before everyone jumps up and down, stamps their feet and accuses me of wetting my mattress.
In reverse order...
24) Rotherham United
Manager: Paul Warne
What a thoroughly decent fella. Top manager, too, who probably deserves a tilt at a club with more resources. Speaks well and funny too. Gets his teams super fit and organised.
In Conor Washington (free, Charlton Athletic) Tom Eaves (free, Hull City) Peter Kioso (undisclosed, Luton Town) Cohen Bramall (undisclosed, Lincoln City) Jamie McCart (free, St Johnstone) Cameron Humphreys (free, Zulte Waregem) Grant Hall (loan, Middlesborough)
Out Jake Cooper (released) Jacob Gratton (released) Freddie Ladapo (Ipswich) Angus MacDonald (free, Swindon Town) Joe Mattock (free, Harrogate Town) Mickel Miller (released) Alfie Burnett (free, Forest Green Rovers) Michael Ihiekwe (free, Sheffield Wednesday) Michael Smith (free, Sheffield Wednesday)
Returned at the first attempt but you worry that despite a superb season of promotion and a trophy (ok it was only the Papa John’s but still a cup), that the higher level will find them out again. Even before they lost their best defender and leading scorer, Ihiekwe and Smith, it would have been a struggle. Throw in Ladapo leaving and you realise how tough it is for the Millers when League One clubs can pay better wages. Warne will get everything he can out of this bunch though. I feel bad and lazy just saying they will have a fourth Championship relegation in a row but they lack Championship experience and nous all over the field. Some steady players in Richard Wood and Ben Wiles but not sure they will be tight enough at the back or score anywhere near the goals required. They will surprise a few but ultimately they look well short all over and even the excellent Warne will not be able to overcome their deficiencies.
Key Player: Chiedozie Ogbebe
Impressed with the Republic of Ireland over the summer. Quick, direct and will be counted on to score and assist in a team lacking quality.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I’ve never seen Warne either not wearing a beanie hat or with a coffee. My kind of guy.
Verdict: Hard to see them surviving.
23) Hull City
Manager: Shota Arveladze
Already somewhat of a journeyman manager, before coming to Humberside, he had managed 346 games with five different clubs, his overall record reading 178 wins, 72 draws and 96 defeats. However, his main success has been in Uzbekistan and Turkey and his first full season will ask more questions now the honeymoon is over.
In Tobias Figueiredo (free, Nottingham Forest) Ozan Tufan (undisclosed, Fenerbahce) Nathan Baxter (loan, Chelsea) Jean Michael Seri (free, Hull City) Allahyar Sayyadmanesh (£4.1m, Fenerbahce) Oscar Estupinan (free, Vitoria Guimaraes) Dogukan Sinik (undisclosed, Antalyaspor) Benjamin Tetteh (free, Yeni Malatyaspor)
Out Tom Huddlestone (released) Richie Smallwood (released) Tom Eaves (Rotherham United) Harvey Cartwright (loan, Peterborough United) George Moncur (undisclosed, Leyton Orient) George Honeyman (undisclosed, Millwall) Keane Lewis-Potter (£17.1m, Brentford)
Last year I pegged Huddersfield way too low and I might have done the same here. I don’t see them anywhere near the top 10 but a side that could be anywhere from just below mid table to going down. I’ve plumped for the latter. I don’t see where the goals are coming from and another side who lack depth/quality Championship.
They’ve signed a fair few from the continent, including converting the loan of striker Sayyadmenesh into a permanent deal for a sizeable fee. The Iranian will need to score more than one goal this time out. However, annoying but effective ‘ratter’ Honeyman goes rather aptly to Millwall. More telling is the loss of best player Lewis Potter. He was their main man most weeks and his loss will be felt.
The remainder of the squad consists of younger players including former Blades duo Slater and Smith and four coming in from the mid reaches of the Turkish Super Lig. Despite the change of ownership, the crowds have still not really returned to the KC yet, nor has the feel good factor come from this change that many envisaged, at least on the pitch.
Key Player: Jean Micheal Seri
Decent signing from Fulham who will give them technical ability and flair.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I once heard that Hull were going to be the first football team to play on the moon. In 1984, then-chairman Don Robinson took the squad to NASA’s base in Cape Canaveral during a US tour. I wonder how then-current Tiger Billy Whitehurst would have adapted to the tough surface and if any ‘Aliens’ would have taken him on in a ‘match’? I do believe he would have been more effective than Weaver. Sigourney, not Nicky.
Verdict: I think they actually overachieved last season even though they were in the lower reaches. This year will be a real struggle. If they start badly, expect them to get marooned. They have some unknown signings and this prediction is the one that could go badly wrong – I wouldn't be totally shocked if they are just below mid-way, but feel signing unknowns unproven to this league might not work.
22) Birmingham City
Manager: John Eustace was a coach at QPR but seems a cheap appointment to me and has no experience in management other than a brief spell at Kidderminster. Bowyer split opinion but seemed to get them motivated to win enough games.
In: Finley Thorndike (free, Aston Villa) Dion Sanderson (loan, Wolverhampton Wanderers) Przemyslaw Placheta (loan, Norwich City) John Ruddy (free, Wolverhampton Wanderers) Auston Trusty (loan, Arsenal)
Out: Fran Villalba (undisclosed, Sporting Gijon) Jeremie Bela (released) Renedi Masampu (released) Kristian Pedersen (free, FC Koln) Kane Thompson-Sommers (released) Connal Trueman (released) Yoane Zohore (released) Ivan Sanchez (undisclosed, Real Valladolid) Ivan Sunjic (loan, Hertha Berlin) Josh Andrews (loan, Doncaster Rovers) Kyle Hurst (free, Doncaster Rovers)
Managed to keep their head above water last season amidst issues off the field. They spent a good period of the season playing in front of a half-open St Andrews. They are still embroiled in ownership issues with - bizarrely - former Barcelona striker Maxi Lopez amongst a consortium involved in the latest bid. As I write this, the deal is not close to completion and thus the uncertainty will engulf the club and new manager as the season commences.
There is some experience in the likes of George Friend, Gary Gardner, Ryan Woods and new keeper John Ruddy. Bacuna can cause problems and Hogan and Jutkiewicz offer experience, but the latter is not the player he was and had a poor season. The rest of the squad is made up of youngsters and a number moved on in the summer. Any injuries coupled with more discontent from fans if the takeover stalls and they are in the sticky stuff.
Key Player: Scott Hogan Journeyman striker but in a squad devoid of much at all, he will need to score a hatful if they stay up.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Jude Bellingham's number 22 shirt was retired after he only played 44 games for the blue noses and left at 16. Comparable for United is Phil Thompson who played the same number of games (44) in the 1980s for us! Thankfully we chose not to honour the ‘over the hill’ big-nosed defender in the same way.
Verdict: Financial problems, a decaying ground and thin squad. They’ll be the ‘big’ side that goes for me. This season’s Derby County if you like.
21) Wigan Athletic
Manager: Leam Richardson
Did superbly to get them up when finally going out on his own after being part of Paul Cook’s managerial teams. They nearly went down the previous season, so a tremendous turnaround to go up as champions.
In: Ryan Nyambe (free, Blackburn Rovers)
Out: Gavin Massey (Port Vale) Adam Long (undisclosed, Doncaster Rovers) Jordan Jones (loan, Kilmarnock)
Not sure many fancied them last season but they are back at this level again after a few years away. They do not possess many players who would worry you, with a lot of cast-offs or journeymen supplanting some young talent like defender Jack Whatmough.
Veterans Max Power, Tendayi Darikwa and James McClean will offer the know-how, but they do look short of those that will regularly break teams down or a range of scorers. Defensively, they will get opened up much more.
The excellent young manager has not only found an effective way of playing but has forged a real togetherness. They will need those qualities in abundance to stay clear of troubled water. A good start is essential but they will surprise a few, especially at home.
Key Player: Will Keane
Scored a raft of goals and finally looked like showing the potential he had when he was a kid at Man Utd with Pogba, Lingaard, Ravel Morrison, John Cofie and Sean McGinty. Ok, maybe not the last two, but checking you were still reading. Physical outlet who will rough up defences and is a handful. An Andy Carroll-lite in style and looks.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Jamie Carragher’s son plays for Wigan. His name is Jamie. I’ve always wondered why people give their kids the same forename as them? I get it if it’s a name in the family that has always been used but I still think it is weird. Egotistical almost. Sorry if I’ve offended anyone. Middle names are fine, but give your lad/daughter their own first name, people!
Verdict: Momentum will carry over to start this season which will see them accrue enough points.
20) Cardiff City
Manager: Steve Morison
He always liked a battle as a player and will need to do the same as a manager. Did just about enough to get the full-time job, but now with a squad of his own players, albeit with limited funds, he will be able to be properly assessed.
In: Ebou Adams (free, Forest Green Rovers) Jak Alnwick (free, St Mirren) Ollie Tanner (undisclosed, Lewes) Jamilu Collins (free, Paderborn) Callum O'Dowda (free, Bristol City) Vontae Daley-Campbell (free, Leicester City) Mahlon Romeo (free, Millwall) Ryan Allsop (free, Derby County) Andy Rinomhota (free, Reading) Romaine Sawyers (undisclosed, West Bromwich Albion) Cedric Kipre (loan, West Bromwich Albion)
Out: Sam Bowen (undisclosed, Newport County) Chanka Zimba (loan, Newport County) Aden Flint (free, Stoke City) Will Vaulks (free, Sheffield Wednesday) Marlon Pack (free, Portsmouth) Leandro Bacuna (released) Ciaron Brown (released) Josh Murphy (Oxford United) Alex Smithies (released) Isaac Vassell (released) James Connolly (undisclosed, Bristol Rovers) Kieron Evans (loan, Torquay United) James Collins (free, Derby County)
A strange old season last time with McCarthy moved on after Harris had not lasted long before him either. Morison steadied the ship but they got a right old battering at rivals Swansea, who completed the first ever South Wales double, which will have irked Cardiff fans.
Morison said he would make changes and he has, with lots departing (many out of contract and on deals signed from the Warnock Premier League days) and a number of newcomers. At least half a dozen experienced mainstays of the Bluebirds’ recent past have left, although whether Morison will change the style remains to be seen now the likes of Vaulks, Flint and Moore have left. Sawyers, Rinhomota and O’Dowda are certainly more ‘technical’ players in midfield.
The Gareth Bale dream signing never materialised despite Bluebirds fans constantly checking flight paths and him apparently talking to the club. Scanning their squad, they seem to completely lack goalscorers or indeed strikers. If they don’t address this, they could get sucked into the scramble in the depths of the division.
Key Player: Ruben Colwill
Talented Welsh midfielder with an eye for a goal. With a potential evolution in the team’s style, his development may be accelerated even more.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: The Ayatollah celebration came into use at Cardiff City games in 1990. It was originally performed by the singers and fans of a Welsh-language punk group called U Thant. It was first performed by the Cardiff City fans at the Sincil Bank, home of Lincoln City, on 15 September 1990, the day after U Thant had played a gig at Cardiff's Chapter Arts Centre. Do Cardiff fans think it looks good by the way when they pat their own heads? I think they look ridiculous. Reminds me of when as a kid we’d do the same thing and rub our tummy at the same time. Or vice versa.
Verdict: Will need to get a goalscorer in before the end of August, or might be looking over their shoulder.
19) Blackpool
Manager: Michael Appleton
Controversially back at Bloomfield Road after he was only there for 9 weeks in 2012-13. Neil Critchley worked wonders for the Tangerines, but the fact he left to work with Steven Gerrard again shows perhaps that:
1) He had a great working relationship with the LFC legend;
2) He will get paid more as a coach in the Premier League than a manager in the Championship, and
3) He’s maybe taken ’Pool as far as he can.
Appleton is a former PNE player, adding to the difficulty in succeeding someone who has done such a sterling job.
In: Lewis Fiorini (loan, Manchester City) Rhys Williams (loan, Liverpool) Dominic Thompson (Brentford)
Out: Cameron Antwi (released) Ryan Grant (released) Johnny Johnston (released) Matthew Liptrott (released) Charlie Monks (released) Ethan Robson (free, MK Dons) Sky Sinclair (released) Grant Ward (released) Oliver Casey (loan, Forest Green Rovers) Reece James (loan, Sheffield Wednesday)
The Tangerines were more than comfortable in mid table and coped with the step up with ease. They shocked a few bigger clubs (United for one!) and handed out some drubbings to a few sides along the way. There is talent there in the likes of Josh Bowler, Shayne Lavery and Jerry Yates. Experienced pros like Keogh and Madine are vital at either end of the pitch.
They have not really changed the squad and it is worrying they have not freshened things up. The surprise element will not be there in the second season and that, coupled with a new manager, might mean things are tougher and they drop down a touch.
Key Player: Josh Bowler
Bowler was a promising young player at Goodison Park but never made the grade in the end. Had a loan spell at Hull before settling with Blackpool. A tricky winger whose direct play got ’Pool up the field, he will want to build on an excellent first season.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Stanley Matthews played in the top flight at 50 and for England at 42! So, sadly, it looks like my international days have passed me by but I maybe should not give up making it as a pro just yet.
Verdict: Will have enough to stay away from trouble but a small squad with no real additions might be tested. The new substitution rules will not help clubs like Blackpool.
18) Bristol City
Manager: Nigel Pearson
Not sure City have seen the impact they wanted from the experienced Pearson, who won’t have come cheap. To be fair to him, it is taking a while to shift a number of players who have been too comfortable for too long. I do wonder if he will have the appetite to stay for what is clearly a long-term project.
In: Mark Sykes (free, Oxford United) Kal Naismith (free, Luton Town) Kane Wilson (free, Forest Green Rovers) Stefan Bajic (free, unattached)
Out: Callum O'Dowda (released) Louis Britton (released) Kasey Palmer (undisclosed, Coventry City) Robbie Cundy (free, Barnsley) Saikou Janneh (undisclosed, Cambridge United) Taylor Moore (loan, Shrewsbury Town) Owura Edwards (loan, Ross County) Tyreeq Barkinson (undisclosed, Sheffield Wednesday)
A 17th-place finish represented another underwhelming season for City who are never bad enough to go down but miles off ever being in contention. They conceded 77 goals last season and Naismith and Kane Wilson will need to steady this porous area of the side. Antoine Semenyo is the creative talent, but the reliance on goals still comes from Weimann and veteran Chris Martin. Lots of steady players but a side that lacks excitement.
Not sure it is clear what kind of style City are evolving towards - Pearson seems to be wanting to build the team around youngsters like Alex Scott, and it will still take him time to build his own side.
Key Player: Kai Naismith
Quite a coup as possibly Luton's best asset and opted to move South West, probably pocketing a far better wage in the process. Versatile performer who can defend but come out with the ball and operates in a whole range of positions.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I always wondered what was so special about the tower block of flats they filmed Only Fools and Horses in (right next to Ashton Gate). Surely they were able to find one in Peckham to give that ‘Sarf’ London authenticity?
Verdict: They look a long way short of being a promotion contender, but Pearson is too wily to have them struggling.
17) Reading
Manager: Paul Ince
Seemed a completely baffling appointment, considering he had been out of the game for so long after starting well at MK Dons but then struggling higher up the pyramid. His job was to keep them up and he did that. This season, it’s likely that it’s the same objective. I would not be shocked if he does not see the season out.
In: Joe Lumley (loan, Middlesbrough) Tom Ince (free, Stoke City) Dean Bouzanis (free, Southend United) Tyrese Forn Jeff Hendrick (loan, Newcastle United) Shane Long (free, Southampton) Sam Hutchinson (free, Sheffield Wednesday)
Out: James Holden (undisclosed, Cambridge United) Terell Thomas (released) Brandon Barker (free, Omonia Nicosia) Orjan Nyland (released) Felipe Araruna (released) Alen Halilovic (released) Marc McNulty (released) Michael Morrison (Portsmouth) John Swift (released) Ethan Bristow (free, Tranmere Rovers) Josh Laurent (free, Stoke City) Andy Rinomhota (released) Luke Southwood (loan, Cheltenham Town)
They played United off the park at the Lane, helping them secure their survival. For the most part, however, last season was best forgotten, with a points deduction, financial issues and a managerial change. They do not look set to see much of an upward move with issues still swirling around off the field.
Swift departing is a blow and bringing in ageing midfielders Hutchison and Hendrick is not really showing a long-term plan. He signed his son, who, like his Dad, had lost his way. Shane Long is a strange one as he seems to have been at Southampton forever but now finally departs. Always a nuisance running behind, but will he add goals at this lower level? They probably have enough up top to get away from the bottom but I think they have one of the weakest ‘home advantages’ in the country.
Some of the experts have pegged them to go down and whilst their squad is weak, I do think they have those goalscoring threats that mean they can move away from the bottom places. Meite and Joao offer pace and running in behind, meaning they can get some results on the break away from home. Not convinced by Ince, but he does have enough experience in the group to avoid the drop again.
Key Player: Lucas Joao
Always causes the Blades problems and I would not be averse to us signing him. Quick, strong and can finish. He lacks consistency and has never remained free from injuries for a long period of time. If he did, you expect a team higher up the league to look at him.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Former chairman and owner John Madjeski was once romantically linked to Cilla Black. On a similar subject of club owners’/directors’ former beaus/belles, my own Grandma once dated Arnold Laver. I would not be writing this if the relationship had continued, as my Mum would not exist.
Verdict: Similar to last season but without the points deduction, and if Joao and Meite stay fit, then will be more comfortable.
16) Sunderland
Manager: Alex Neil
Had a number of managerial changes in an attempt to get out of the third tier. Finally, they found a man who took them over the line. A steady, experienced manager who started well at Norwich and Preston before fans and their respective boards became frustrated at the lack of progress. I do wonder if he will be a long-term appointment with new ownership looking to escort them back to the top league.
In: Leon Dajaku (undisclosed, Union Berlin) Daniel Ballard (undisclosed, Arsenal) Jack Clarke (undisclosed, Tottenham Hotspur) Aji Alese (undisclosed, West Ham United)
Out: Aiden McGeady (released) Arbenit Xhemajli (released) Jordan Willis (released) Lee Burge (free, Northampton Town) Will Grigg (released)
Finally, the Mackems escaped League One after it seemed - much like the Blades - that they were fatally stuck in the third tier. Alex Neil got them past Wednesday and then MK Dons with a mixture of longer-term players and some newer young talent such as Ross Stewart, Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts. They have only made tweaks to the side that went up and will count on momentum and the huge fan base to ensure they are competitive.
They will of course be the best-supported side in the league, overtaking us for average crowds (with Derby and Forest gone, only us, Norwich, Boro and West Brom will be the really well-supported sides) and will take thousands to every away game, which is a huge help when they are doing well.
I do think they lack top quality at this level and even the aforementioned have to prove they can step up. However, that crowd is such a help and if they start the season well, they’re another side who could go higher than I’ve placed them. I worry that they lack the experience they need and may benefit from some old heads in defence/middle of the park.
Key Player: Ross Stewart
Rangy forward who can get behind defences and is a good finisher too. He will be entrusted to lead the line again this season, but may find the going a bit tougher.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I always wonder how/why Sunderland are so fantastically supported. It’s not a huge city and of course Newcastle is close by. I get that the North East is a vast area with few other clubs, but still, the way they’ve built such a following, helped by the move to the Stadium of Light has to be applauded.
Verdict: Seen some say they will contend at the top and others that they may go straight back down. I think somewhere in the middle is about right. Yes, I’m fence sitting.
15) Preston North End
Manager: Ryan Lowe
Growing a solid reputation from his time at Bury and Plymouth, Lowe has worked his way up the leagues and made a decent start at Deepdale. He knows it will be very difficult to compete with the bigger spenders but also knows they can still surprise many sides.
In: Freddie Woodman (undisclosed, Newcastle United) David Cornell (free, Peterborough United) Robbie Brady (free, Bournemouth) Ben Woodburn (free, Liverpool) Troy Parrott (loan, Tottenham Hotspur) Alvaro Fernández (loan, Manchester United)
Out: Connor Ripley (released) Ethan Walker (free, Blackburn Rovers) Isaiah Brown (released) Jack Baxter (released) Jamie Thomas (released) Joe Rafferty (released) Joe Rodwell-Grant (released) Mathew Hudson (released) Paul Huntington (released) Scott Sinclair (released) Tom Barkhuizen (Derby County) Tom Bayliss (free, Shrewsbury Town) Josh Earl (free, Fleetwood Town) Connor Ripley (free, Morecambe)
Another side hard to pitch, who could be anywhere from the edge of the playoffs to where I have put them. They have made a couple of smart signings in Parrott and Brady who will give them more options at the top of the pitch, and you expect Woodman to be the new number one after finally leaving St James’ Park after so many loan deals.
Preston always seems to be the club that will win, draw, lose almost all season (OK, maybe not quite as clear cut in the sequential order of results): they do not seem a side that ever puts a big run of wins together, but equally, never suffers a fatal run of losses.
I still feel mainstays like Alan Browne and Daniel Johnson are the keys to Preston remaining competitive most weeks. Ryan Lowe is a good young manager who seems to be a good fit for North End. The squad lacks depth and spending power to maybe go a bit higher but equally, I would not be shocked if they were to finish in the top half.
Key Player: Emil Riis Jakobsen
Loved a last-minute goal against the Blades to salvage a 2-2. He did very well in his first season in England, showing he could score in a range of ways. He will be counted on again to lead the line for PNE.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Why can’t all police at football/towns be like the lovely Preston constabulary? Great interaction on social media and friendly, non-confrontational policing. It does work and our own local force could learn a lot from the way they supervise rather than police things on match day.
Verdict: Preston look like a classic Championship side and must be one of, if not the longest-serving at this level. Do not expect that to change anytime soon.
14) Blackburn Rovers
Manager: Jon Dahl Tomasson
Tony Mowbray polarised opinion, but he had Rovers right near the top for the first half of the season until a slump post-Xmas saw them fall away. Both parties chose to move on with his contract up. The Tomasson appointment was a bit left field and that sort can go both ways. He had managed some smaller Dutch clubs and been Assistant Manager of his national team before doing well in a brief spell at Malmö. Still, he is unproven over here and is best known for an undistinguished spell at Newcastle in the ’90s.
In: Ethan Walker (free, Preston North End) Callum Brittain (undisclosed, Barnsley)
Out: Joe Rothwell (released) Bradley Johnson (free, MK Dons) Jacob Davenport (released) Harry Chapman (free, Bradford City) Luke Brennan (released) Connor McBride (released) Sam Durrant (released) Joe Nolan (released) Antonis Stergiakis (free, Panetolikos) Darragh Lenihan (free, Middlesbrough) Ryan Nyambe (released)
Rovers probably overachieved last season, buoyed by the goals of a re-energised Brereton Diaz. Eighth was still ahead of last pre-season’s expectations but they have not only changed manager but lost key men Rothwell, Lenighan and new Blades signing Reda Khadra.
Only workmanlike Callum Brittain comes in from Barnsley and without additions to replace the above, it might be hard to repeat last season. Youngster John Buckley is an excellent talent and maybe the enigmatic Bradley Dack will finally stay fit. Dylan Markandy came in from Spurs in January and will play a bigger part.
Expect to see them drop off. With Blackburn, Blackpool, Burnley and Preston all at the same level together for the first time since 1961, it’s typically harder to yield positive results in so many ‘derby’ fixtures.
Key Player: Ben Brereton Diaz
Brereton Diaz maintaining his goalscoring form will be vital for them to even be close to last season’s finish, with a weaker squad on paper and a new coach to adjust to.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: More pointless facts here... Rovers are the only club to have won major trophies in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, and the only club to have founded and won both the Football League and Premier League. Blackburn is also the only town in England to have had a team compete in the Champions League, and the only town to have been home to two different FA Cup-winning clubs.
Verdict: Blackburn fans may see a bit more style, but Mowbray’s pragmatic approach got them results. May take time and further recruitment for the incoming manager.
13) Huddersfield
Manager: Danny Schofield
Had a few caretaker spells with Town, but has been thrust into a role with Corberan’s sudden departure. He will just want to keep the continuity going but I think even without the changes it would have been a tough ask to repeat a playoff place.
In: Will Boyle (free, Cheltenham Town) David Kasumu (undisclosed, MK Dons) Connor Mahoney (free, unattached) Kyle Hudlin (undisclosed, Solihull Moors) Jack Rudoni (undisclosed, AFC Wimbledon) Yuta Nakayama (free, PEC Zwolle) Tino Anjorin (loan, Chelsea)
Out: Josh Austerfield (loan, Harrogate Town) Romoney Crichlow (loan, Bradford City) Jaheim Headley (loan, Harrogate Town) Alex Vallejo (released) Reece Brown (free, Forest Green Rovers) Jamal Blackman (Exeter) Fraizer Campbell (released) Naby Sarr (released) Carel Eiting (released) Kyle Hudlin (loan, AFC Wimbledon) Lewis O'Brien, Harry Toffolo (£10m, Nottingham Forest)
Definitely last season’s surprise package. They improved hugely defensively and after moving into the playoff spots, remained in the mix and went on long unbeaten runs with the miserly backline continuing to keep clean sheets. Even in a dour playoff final they had two clear penalties waved away and on another day (if VAR had done their job) they could have gone up.
Sadly when a team does so well it sometimes creates issues and expectations rise for the manager, player and even fans. Corberan left just before the season amidst players moving on, with O’Brien and Toffolo departing, annoyingly for the side that beat them to the Premier League prize money.
Coach Danny Schofield comes in but the surprise factor has gone along with those two key men. The new signings have been lower-league in the main. The defence will remain solid though, with Lees and Pearson dependable veterans. ’Keeper Lee Nicholls had one of the best records in the league last year despite him being open to a fair few s**thouse timewasting tactics! Goals have been harder to come by with Ward and Rhodes being counted on, which might be a concern without any reinforcements.
Key Player: Jon Russell
Tall, skilful midfielder with an eye for a goal. He was formerly in the Chelsea academy and now with O’Brien going will be expected to link with veteran Hogg in the middle of the park.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Admirable as it was Town winning three straight titles in the 1920s, putting three stars on the shirt seems grasping. Maybe we should celebrate our domination of the 1890s with a picture of a pie on the back of the collar to commemorate Fatty Foulkes’ starring role in this side.
Verdict: After losing Corberan, they will find it tough to remain in the upper echelons. Mid table feels about right. Will not score many but won’t concede many either!
12) Queens Park Rangers
Manager: Michael Beale
Warburton seemed a steady pair of hands but as with Mowbray (McCarthy at Ipswich before that) teams and fans demand something different and young, up-and-coming coaches seems to be the fashion. Some will work. Some clearly will not. Beale was seen as the brains behind Gerrard in his managerial roles so far but being your own man is not the same (see Taylor, Peter; McClaren, Steve; McCall, Stuart; Blackwell, Kevin). Apparently likes to be called Mick not Michael. Or Ian.
In: Jake Clarke-Salter (free, Chelsea) Kenneth Paal (free, unattached) Tyler Roberts (loan, Leeds United) Taylor Richards (loan, Brighton & Hove Albion)
Out: Charlie Austin (released) Dominic Ball (free, Ipswich Town) Dillon Barnes (released) David Marshall (free, Hibernian) Lee Wallace (released) Keiren Westwood (released) Jordy de Wijs (undisclosed, Fortuna Dusseldorf) Yoann Barbet (released) Moses Odubajo (free, Aris Saloniki) Charlie Kelman (loan, Leyton Orient)
Rangers flirted with the top 6 but then fell away long before the season ended and the Warburton departure seemed rather inevitable with his contract up. A few veterans moved on but they still have dependable players like Dickie, Johansen, Adomah and Dykes and creativity in Chair and Willock. Tyler Roberts should enjoy himself with more game time. Taylor Richards is someone who might surprise after a loan move from Brighton and offers something different in midfield.
Will rely on solid home form at the compact Loftus Road but the squad does look small and they have to arrest the decline that set in at the end of last season. Much will depend on how quickly Beale can integrate his style. They always seemed quite direct under Warburton so it’ll be interesting if they try and play more football.
Key Player: Chris Willock
He suffered with injuries last season but has oodles of talent and will be counted on to provide goals and assists.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Rangers got some lovely and quite innovative Erreà strips and they were paraded some time ago. Did we need a special type of material/colour?
Verdict: Seem like another side that just scream ‘middle of the park.’
11) Swansea City
Manager: Russell Martin
To his credit, Martin stuck to his principles and kept Swansea playing out from the back with possession football even in the face of results not working (as Blades fans will testify). Expect that long-term, fans’ patience will be rewarded.
In: Ben Blythe (undisclosed, Doncaster Rovers) Nathan Wood (undisclosed, Middlesbrough) Harry Darling (undisclosed, MK Dons) Matthew Sorinola (loan, Union SG) Joe Allen (free, Stoke City)
Out: Korey Smith (free, Derby County) Ben Hamer (released) Yan Dhanda (released) Josh Gould (released) Jamie Searle (free, Barnsley) Korey Smith (released) Flynn Downes (£9.6m, West Ham United) Jacob Jones (free, Forest Green Rovers) Morgan Whittaker (loan, Plymouth Argyle)
I think it was always going to take time for Swansea to transition in style and manager, but they’ve slowly started to get there, even with some hefty bumps along the way. A double over Cardiff helped Martin’s popularity of course. They finished 15th and I’d expect with ball-playing centre-back Harry Darling coming in from Martin’s former club MK Dons and old favourite Joe Allen returning, they will push higher.
Piroe and Obafemi will provide the attacking spark and Manning, Cabanas and Bennett are solid defenders. The possession-heavy style can be very effective but also relies on individuals not making mistakes as they play out from the back. Players should be more comfortable in the system and expect them to move through the thirds more effectively this season.
Key Player: Joel Piroe
Scored 24 goals with finishes from outside and inside the box. He did not get the acclaim of other forwards at this level but he was quietly prolific in his own right.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I wondered why Swansea were called ‘The Jacks’ so I Googled it. The first suggestion is as a reference to the high reputation of local seamen (“Jack Tars”) in the early nineteenth century. The second is from a famous black retriever called Swansea Jack who rescued no fewer than 27 people from drowning in the River Tawe and Swansea Docks during the 1930s.
Verdict: Might be a bit short of a top 6 spot but I’d not be totally shocked if they were this season's Huddersfield.
10) Stoke City
Manager: Michael O’ Neill
Another manager who divides opinion. He has been hampered by Premier League contracts, loss of parachute payments and FFP rules. Hard to pigeon hole him/them into a style really and you would think he would have to make a jump this season as 14th last time out was not great.
In: Aden Flint (free, Cardiff City) Harry Clarke (loan, Arsenal) Josh Laurent (free, Reading) Liam McCarron (undisclosed, Leeds United) Gavin Kilkenny (loan, Bournemouth) Dwight Gayle (undisclosed, Newcastle United) William Smallbone (loan, Southampton)
Out: Tommy Smith (released) James Chester (free, Derby County) Steven Fletcher (free, Dundee United) Tom Ince (free, Reading) Mario Vrancic (loan, Rijeka) Alfie Doughty (undisclosed, Luton Town) Christian Norton (released) Tashan Oakley-Boothe (loan, Lincoln City) Douglas James-Taylor (loan, Walsall) Joe Allen (free, Swansea City) Benik Afobe (undisclosed, Millwall) Will Forrester (Port Vale)
A club in the same circles as Preston and QPR that seem mired in mid-table Championship boredom. Of course, due to finances, it must be hard to compete with those coming down and even some big clubs who come up from League One (like Sunderland).
Stoke have a decent and loyal fanbase that understands that the club has had to move on burdensome contracts, but will expect O’Neill to improve. Oddly, the move towards younger players seems to have been lost somewhat, as they have brought in Aiden Flint and Dwight Gayle. They are solid, experienced players but seem short-term. The likes of Jacob Brown and the incoming Will Smallbone give them enthusiasm and running.
There is quality in the side and Nick Powell, when fit, is still one of the better players at this level but the squad seems weaker in terms of half a dozen experienced players moving on. Jagielka still plays on but you’d be concerned if he was starting for us now.
Key Player: Dwight Gayle
Will score goals at this level and has somewhere he can call home after so many loans from Newcastle where he never got regular goals at the higher level.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: The Stoke badge is so dull. Literally just red and white stripes in a crest. The old one had a rope. It had a tower on it. No idea why, but it was far better than this rubbish they currently have.
Verdict: Feel with more expected, O’Neill will get more out of this group and Gayle will make a difference.
9) Luton Town
Manager: Nathan Jones
Never afraid to speak his mind, he is back at his spiritual home and got Town to the playoffs with a great, late run. His passion is clear and he seems to relish the underdog mentality. Can he take them to the next step without significant changes in the wage bill or funds to bring more quality in? Whatever happens, it won’t be for want of trying from the tight tracksuit-bottomed Welshman.
In: Alfie Doughty (undisclosed, Stoke City) Cauley Woodrow (undisclosed, Barnsley) Louie Watson (undisclosed, Derby County) Ethan Horvath (loan, Nottingham Forest) Luke Freeman (free, Sheffield United) Carlton Morris (undisclosed, Barnsley)
Out: Elliot Lee (released) Sam Beckwith (released) Corey Panter (released) Jake Peck (released) Kal Naismith (free, Bristol City) Danny Hylton (undisclosed, Northampton Town) Peter Kioso (undisclosed, Rotherham United) Josh Neufville (loan, Sutton United
There have only been minor changes to the squad after a fantastic season last time out. Jones deserves so much credit for what he did with a relatively small squad that competed against sides with far bigger budgets. They finished the season really strongly and ended up in the playoff places in a close contest against Huddersfield. They have a splattering of experience and some maybe unheralded young players like Reece Burke and Elijah Adebayo. Signed a pair of Barnsley forwards (Morris will do well) and ex-Blade Luke Freeman, but Naismith will be a big loss.
Luton will still continue to be a tight-knit group that will get results and use that home advantage at Kenilworth Road to its utmost. They know their strengths and Jones will ensure that he continues with the siege mentality that he seems to often show in his demeanour and interviews. They do lack out-and-out scorers and a few injuries could see them drop lower, but I think that they will struggle to maintain the form of last season and the summer break in a strange way will hurt them as they had so much momentum.
Key Player: Allan Campbell
Full of energy and a proper box-to-box player who can set up others but equally come back and make a defensive tackle. He is not someone that gets all the plaudits but every time I saw Luton, I thought who is this red-headed slightly balding lad that seems to be everywhere?
Deadbat’s pointless thought: This is not a criticism but Luton, like Everton, seem to have been moving grounds for about 20 years? Hope for them it happens soon, as quaint as Kenilworth Road is. The name for the new stadium is not great though. Power Court sounds like a huge Tennis court that is being used as a breakaway from the mainstream Tennis tour, much like the LIV situation in Golf.
Verdict: Jones is relentless and that is why I cannot see them falling much, but playoffs again will be a stretch.
8) Sheffield Utd
Manager: Paul Heckingbottom
Did a superb job after the Jokanović experiment was jettisoned very early and seemingly rightly so, considering Hecky’s impact after he came in. We surged up the league and the football we played was far easier on the eye as we attacked quicker and with purpose. Gibbs-White’s form was key of course, but he got the best out of previously-criticised performers like Robinson and Foderingham. The defence was for the most part rock-solid. We did trail off, but injuries did not help and the final flourish (QPR second half, Fulham, and Forest playoff second leg) showed that he still had the players believing and we were very close to making the playoff final, thwarted by the brilliance of Brice Samba.
I am concerned that with expectations rising (due to how well he did – he has created this demand which is good) many fans just automatically expect us to be right near the top. I am not sure I am fully convinced by him as manager long-term, looking at how he has fared elsewhere, but I love how he speaks and behaves and is a straight talker, much like Wilder was. Likeable bloke who I hope remains for the long term – he aligns with the ownership in terms of limited funds/bringing through young players and not rocking the boat. I am not sure I see him being here in a season (that is my big prediction). Either a poor start or a change of ownership might mean we have a different manager in 12 months. Once again you can come back and poke fun at that call which is based on little other than a hunch!
In: Tommy Doyle (loan, Manchester City) Anel Ahmedhodzic (undisclosed, Malmö) Ciaran Clark (loan, Newcastle United) Reda Khadra (loan, Brighton & Hove Albion)
Out: David McGoldrick (free, Derby County) Lys Mousset (released) Luke Freeman (free, Luton Town) Harry Boyes (loan, Forest Green Rovers) Oliver Burke (undisclosed, Werder Bremen) Jake Eastwood (loan, Ross County) Harrison Neal (loan, Barrow) Femi Seriki (loan, Rochdale) Zak Brunt (loan, Borehamwood)
A strange few seasons where, despite the dismal relegation and the effects of covid/closed stadiums/injuries/loss of form and poor signings creating the perfect storm, United were expected to bounce back. The squad was packed full of Championship experience and promotion winners but Jokanović maybe tried to change too much (at least playing-wise – I personally would have moved more personnel on but this was hard due to contracts). It didn’t work - the style was slow and confusing and did not sit well. Fans did not turn on him really at all but the board moved quickly.
The move to install Heckingbottom on a long-term contract seemed confusing after they had gone with a different approach only months previously. However, it worked at least last season, and we surged up the league and nearly went up. We had a poor spell where form and results dipped a bit, but injuries absolutely killed us and we had no real strikers to end the season. However, the trio of Gibbs-White, Ndiaye and Berge sparkled and Sharp continued to thrive even in his mid-30s. The usual playoff defeat was inevitable but we did have Forest on the ropes at the City Ground and most fans were quite proud of the side and manager despite them not achieving the goal of promotion.
Gibbs-White’s departure was sad but expected. He will be tough to replace and maybe it will take a committee of attackers/number 10s in the likes of Berge, Ndiaye and newcomers Doyle and Khadra to replace what he gave us in terms of goals, assists and sheer brilliance. Khadra was superb for Blackburn at the Lane but might be a typical flair player that has some great games and some indifferent, and he might be used across a range of attacking positions. I am excited to see him as we have not had players like MGW, Ndiaye or him in recent years. Norwood still is very consistent at this level and still makes us tick despite the criticism he gets. Alongside him, Fleck lacks consistency and fitness and this might be the first season he is not as regular, but that depends if newcomers Doyle, Coulibaly and youngster Arblaster can step up. I would still like another signing here (defensive, mobile ratter) but that is being greedy maybe?
Bogle will be a huge boost offensively as much as defensively, although we have a plethora of left backs/left wing backs and I’m not sure any are as good as Bogle/Baldock on the other side. It will be a case of who grabs the shirt. The defence was strengthened in terms of depth which after injuries you could say we needed to do. We had the fourth-best record defensively but scored 10 and 11 goals fewer than Forest and Bournemouth respectively, and 43 fewer than Fulham (granted that was the exact total Mitrović scored!) so maybe needed to address the other end with more limited resources. Ahmedhodžić looks a good signing if he can adapt to the rigours of the physical Championship but looks superb on the ball. Clark gives us cover on the left and the defence looks one of the strongest in the league in terms of starters and cover. In theory, we should not be shipping lots of goals. Hope I am right.
I am concerned at the top of the field. Brewster seems to be the main man, but he only really played well for half a dozen games in two seasons - although this was at least some promise after him looking completely devoid of confidence/ability before this. I am still not sure we should be pinning our hopes on him as much as people seem to be doing. Sharp is still so wily but is a year older and is now picking up injuries, as you would expect. Will those two be enough (with a few of the attacking midfielders) to get us the goals we need?
Jebbison/Osula look a way off yet and McBurnie is a complete bust who needs moving on. He will at least be released in the same way we got rid of the other poor signings Wilder made (Mousset, Freeman, Burke/C Robinson) in the Premier League. I would love a powerful striker who can hold the ball up, leading to goals from others behind and addressing our lack of goals in other ways. Davis from Villa (who was superb against us for Forest) would be ideal, but then there is the argument he doesn’t score enough. I think the ball might come back too much, and the reliance on pretty triangles down the wings (the bad Wilder ball) might be a source of frustration. I saw no clear pattern pre-season, and the loss of MGW - almost our entire attacking threat at times - will hit us harder than many think.
The positives are we still have the likes of Egan, Basham, Norwood, Bogle, Sharp, Ndiaye and Berge. That’s seven players who would get in almost every side at this level. Along with our reliable keeper, they have the experience and ability between them to ensure we will win more than we lose. We have real depth at the back and players who can be plugged into different positions. There also seems to be a group of good young players coming through (might need loan time – Arblaster, Osula and Jebbison) and Hecky/McCall/Lester will at least have had a proper pre-season and time to put their plans together.
We might be taken over, and whilst this can destabilise clubs, it can also invigorate clubs and if more spending power materialises as a result (as long as it is a kosher type investment – the American businessman appears quite the opposite) then that could give the manager the players he might need to push us close to automatic promotion. We will have big crowds every other week at the Lane and many clubs at this level would be jealous of our structure, fanbase and squad. I am almost talking myself into a higher position but just worry that we lack the forward power and legs in midfield. It is frustrating as two or three new players to address these concerns and we could be right in the mix for top two, but seeing the likes of Osborn, Fleck and Stevens regularly involved still is a worry, as these are the sorts of players we need to be moving on from, harsh as it seems.
Still, we do have lots of positives and I think after last season’s awful start and style, we seem to have a clearer plan with a settled management team. I look at quite a poor division too and outside of the relegated trio, Boro and maybe West Brom, see the other two defeated playoff teams being weaker. Sure, there are some teams such as Millwall, Coventry, and maybe Stoke who will push up and continue to improve, but a far few will drop off too, due to changing managers or losing key men.
My prediction is very conservative. Last season I picked us in fourth place and was very close and part of me thinks similar again, but I feel we will get off to a poor start again and then have to bring in reinforcements up front to ensure we can compete for the top six.
Key Player: Sander Berge
On his day an absolute juggernaut and at times unstoppable in that attacking role as he finally found some fitness and consistency. Technically good, strong and deceptively quick over a short distance, he added assists and goals to his repertoire. Worryingly, managers keep trying him further back or as the holding/Norwood type. His best assets and the attributes that worry the opposition are his ability to break into the box and link play up the top of the pitch. Keep him there! If he remains (some rumoured interest being mooted from Brentford, Leeds and Leicester) then he will be one of the best players in the league.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Will Khadra be the next Steve Kabba or Paul Ifil – who did well against United in games and then carried on for the most part when we signed them to much fanfare - or will he go the same way as Messrs Britton, Howard, Harper and McBurnie, who have not found the form they showed against us?
Verdict: Eighth is a negative, pessimistic prediction based on years of United letting us down, BUT I believe I have argued my prognosis above. I hope and pray I am wrong. I do firmly believe if we sign the above two types of players or simply improve the attacking options, we would push into the top six. My overriding feeling is MGW was so impactful that it’s difficult to replace him, and I have a nagging feeling Berge might go. Without those two are we much different to seven or eight other sides outside of those coming down? I will be glad to come back to this prediction in May and hope I was miles off (in terms of us finishing higher not lower).
7) Millwall
Manager: Gary Rowett
Never been totally sold on Rowett. He seems to hang around this level and always finds a club, despite his early promise seemingly petering out. Always seems to have a bit of a chip on his shoulder when he speaks but maybe it’s because of people like me writing the above! He does get his teams relatively organised (*dull?!) and Millwall, as much as it is a cliché, do like to get it forward and get balls in the ‘mixer’. With their height and physicality, it makes sense.
In: Zian Flemming (£2.6m, Fortuna Sittard) George Honeyman (undisclosed, Hull City) Charlie Cresswell (loan, Leeds United) Benik Afobe (undisclosed, Stoke City) Jamie Shackleton (loan, Leeds United)
Out: Alex Pearce (free, AFC Wimbledon) Connor Mahoney (released) Mahlon Romeo (free, Cardiff City) Maikel Kieftenbeld (free, Emmen) Dan Moss (free, Woking) Jed Wallace (free, West Bromwich Albion) Zak Lovelace (free, Rangers) Jayden Davis (free, Crawley Town)
Finished ninth last season and have lost key man Jed Wallace but are in a weaker league and have managed a few smart signings. Flemming will give them something as a creative goalscoring threat and as irritating as he is, Honeyman is a really smart piece of business. Afobe is a handful up top. Cresswell and Shackleton both played a fair bit at Leeds. Their overall transfer window was really solid and even with the loss of Wallace, they will still be around the playoff places.
Tyler Burey is a promising young player too and of course they have solid defenders like Jake Cooper (gulp…) and Murray Wallace. They lack that depth of course but the home advantage is big and means it is a very tough place to go and get a result. They might not be the slickest side to watch but are effective and will continue to be so.
Key Player: Zian Flemming
Comes in after 28 games, 12 goals and four assists in a decent side in the Dutch league.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Has anyone ever seen Huski chocolate? Does it exist? What does it taste like? Someone tell me.
Verdict: They might even sneak into the top six but will be a solid top 10 side no doubt.
6) Burnley
Manager: Vincent Kompany
In: Scott Twine (undisclosed, MK Dons) Luke McNally (£1.8m, Oxford United) CJ Egan Riley (free, Manchester City) Taylor Harwood-Bellis (loan, Manchester City) Samuel Bastien (£720k, Standard Liege) Josh Cullen (£2.7m, Anderlecht) Ian Maatsen (loan, Chelsea) Arijanet Muric (undisclosed, Manchester City)
Out: Ben Mee (free, Brentford) Aaron Lennon (released) James Tarkowski (free, Everton) Phil Bardsley (released) Dale Stephens (released) Erik Pieters (released) Joel Mumbongo (released) Richard Nartey (released) Anthony Glennon (free, Grimsby Town) Anthony Gomez Mancini (released) Nick Pope (£10.4m, Newcastle United) Lukas Jensen (loan, Accrington Stanley) Wout Weghorst (loan, Besiktas) Nathan Collins (£20.5m, Wolverhampton Wanderers) Wayne Hennessey (free, Nottingham Forest)
This might seem quite low for a relegated side, but I look at West Brom last season and feel it is no longer as cut-and-dry for the relegated teams. I also look at Burnley’s exit list and the departures of so many key performers that provided the spine of the side in Pope, Mee, Collins, and Tarkowski.
Cork, Westwood and Brownhill are solid Norwood/Fleck-like Championship midfielders. Cullen will help that as well and could light up this league, but Twine is interesting as he seems to be someone who looks like he can step up. Two young lads from Manchester City are excellent additions too and Maatsen did well at Coventry. Muric will replace Pope in goal.
The recruitment has been really good but I just think the solid defenders they have lost were so good that it will be hard for them to be so consistent. I also think Kompany will take time to adjust to this level and no-one knows what he can really do. I think they still have a very good squad and do not see the drop off that many have envisaged but cannot see them being in the automatic places. I also expect Cornet and McNeil to move on and that is a big chunk of their creativity gone.
Key Player: Scott Twine
The top end of the field still has the likes of Barnes, Rodriguez and Vydra, who at this level will be very strong, but Twine is the marquee signing and will get the chance to prove himself at the higher level. Can take a great free kick and is technically very good - I expect him to make the step up fairly comfortably.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Do Burnley have the most animals on their badge? I can count two bees, a stork (I think) and a lion? No idea what any of them mean but seems an unusually high number of animals for one badge. Can anyone beat it – don’t give me three lions – I need different animals/reptiles/birds. If anyone answers this, I will be amazed. If anyone is still reading, I am equally amazed.
Verdict: If Dyche was still there, I would have said champions even with the losses, but it will take time to adapt to new coaching methods.
5) West Brom
Manager: Steve Bruce
I am not a huge fan of Steve Bruce at all. He is another that seems to keep getting jobs and often without real success in recent years but lives off his reputation from the past. If he was not in charge, I looked at this squad and forgot the drop off last season, then I would think these would be right near the playoffs and maybe even the top two. However, I will counter and say he is still an experienced manager and having had a decent time period to assess and stamp his mark, he will have a better idea of what he needs to do.
In: Jayson Molumby (undisclosed, Brighton & Hove Albion) John Swift (free, Reading) Jed Wallace (free, Millwall) Okay Yokuslu (free, Celta Vigo)
Out: Andy Carroll (released) Sam Johnstone (free, Crystal Palace) Romaine Sawyers (undisclosed, Cardiff City) Callum Morton (undisclosed, Fleetwood Town) Jamie Soule (released) Quevin Castro (loan, Burton Albion) Josh Griffiths (loan, Portsmouth) Cedric Kipre (loan, Cardiff City) Caleb Taylor (loan, Cheltenham Town)
They should have been in the top six last season with the squad they had, but the new manager’s excellent start fell off a cliff and the fans realised they did not fancy aching necks as the direct style quickly irked them when results dropped off. Bruce was a poor and short-term appointment and the change did not have the effect the owners hoped, but now they have him, they are rolling with him. They seemed to lack any kind of spine and I recall the game at the Lane when we got stuck in and they seemingly just gave up. They have lots of quality players still and added two superb midfielders in Wallace and Swift, who do not seem like Bruce-type players but have clearly chucked a few pounds at them to entice them to the Hawthorns, as both arguably could have played even higher.
They have a bit of a mixed bag up front in terms of Grant, Robinson and Dike, who are all inconsistent, and the defence with Bartley and Ajayi at the heart can score goals from set plays but ship a lot at the other end due to switching off. The keeping situation also would concern me, as Button and youngster Palmer will fight for the spot after Sam Johnstone moved on. The frustration of Bruce in terms of him being quite methodical and lacking in style/creativity is also strangely his strength, as his sides normally do not concede many and get results. It did not happen last season, but expect him to be more ‘Bruce’-like this season. They will push for the top six, with those two excellent midfield signings the key.
Key Player: Darrell Dike
Swift and Wallace may be the eye-catching signings but Dike will be counted on towards the top of the pitch to recreate his form at Barnsley. He will need to stay fit but offers power and maybe the threat behind that the inconsistent Robinson and Grant do not.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I always thought West Brom were called the Baggies due to the baggy shorts they used to wear. Not so. In its early days, The Hawthorns had only two entrances, one behind each goal. On match days the gatekeepers would gather up the takings at each end and be escorted by policemen along the sides of the pitch to the centre line where there was a small office under the stand. The gate money, mostly in pennies, amounted to a considerable sum and was carried in large cloth bags. It wasn't long before some wag in the crowd started shouting "here come the bag men!" at their appearance in front of the main stand, and this developed into a chant of "here come the Baggies!", giving the team its unofficial nickname. Maybe we could be called the Woolhousers? Allegedly.
Verdict: As I type this, maybe even sixth seems a bit of a stretch but I feel that the signings they have made and a very solid (dull) manager means that they will be in the mix.
4) Coventry
Manager: Mark Robins
Robins is rightly heralded as being the best City manager in recent times. After bouncing around a few clubs, he is now an experienced manager that clearly knows what he is doing and has got the Sky Blues back up in the Championship (they were in League Two not so long ago). They are more than competitive here and even had a dalliance with the play off places for a period last season. His sides play decent football, he recruits well and they are an upwardly mobile outfit.
In: Kasey Palmer (undisclosed, Bristol City) Callum Doyle (loan, Manchester City) Jonathan Panzo (loan, Nottingham Forest)
Out: Jordan Shipley (undisclosed, Shrewsbury Town) Jodi Jones (released) Josh Pask (released) Declan Drysdale (undisclosed, Newport County)
Coventry will be this season’s Huddersfield but to be honest, they were not far away last season. They have a team that now knows what they are capable of and are superbly led by Robins. They seemed to score last-minute winners every other week and their fitness levels seem remarkably high and better than many at this level. They do not have a very deep squad but the side they have is full of underrated players who maybe now are getting the recognition they deserve and attracting more interest. The midfield of O’Hare, Hamer and Kelly is very good and can tackle, run and create. O’Hare is superb at running from deep and technically excellent. He may eventually move on so City fans need to enjoy him while they can.
At the back, they do not have anyone you would think has the potential to go on and play at a higher level, but the likes of former Blades Moore and McFadzean are dependable most weeks. They have done little business incoming but it was more important they held onto what they had and at the time of writing they’ve done that.
Key Player: Viktor Gyokeres
Along with Khadra and Davis (Forest) he may have been one of the best players we saw against United last season. In the drubbing of the Blades, he was superb and gave Egan and co. the runaround. Powerful, mobile and can finish. He is a player that seems like he could go on and play at a higher level and has only just turned 24 so still has time on his side.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I do wonder if those two Coventry fans that wear big hats (long hair, taches and look like an ’80s comedy duo from Saturday night TV) and always sit on the front row are liked? Similar to the bare-chested Tango at Wednesday or that Portsmouth fan who rings the bell.
I would guess that would be seen as part of your club’s history but rather irritating. I also wonder if they replace their big hats regularly and if they have a rotation policy of said headwear or if it is a season wear/replace sort of job?
Verdict: Might seem a touch high but I really rate Robins. Motivator, tactically savvy and understated. He never seems to come out and utter rubbish or beat his chest. Just gets on with it. They might be a bit lower but if things click and they carry on from last season, then playoffs for me.
3) Middlesbrough *Playoff winners
Manager: Chris Wilder
United fans’ relationship with Wilder is an odd one. Most love what he did for us and rightly he is seen as one of the greatest managers we ever had. The togetherness he forged means he was revered and rightly so. However, the way it ended (yes, we do not know the full facts) and the money he squandered on absolute tosh may ironically mean it will be hard to get us back up to the level he remarkably took us to. I think time is a great healer and some of the chippy bitterness he shows may be forgotten. I now look back more fondly than I did 12 months ago.
I think if the Prince was not here or he was in a different league, feelings would be more straightforward. Now there is still some sort of rivalry or feeling that he could be still here. I don’t know – it is so odd he polarises opinion considering the phenomenal job he did here but I am probably one of those who had mixed opinions. I should not. He was amazing but you cannot help how you feel. Anyway, I digress. He was and still is a great manager. He is stubborn and maybe lacks some flexibility but he gets teams playing and gets the best out of many. He has done this at so many clubs and until they fell away, he got them flying up the league. I expect them to be right amongst the top now he has a full season. Squad-wise, I’m not sure they have as much as some of the other sides around them, so that shows how much I and others should rightly rate him and Knill as a management team.
In: Liam Roberts (free, Northampton Town) Ryan Giles (loan, Middlesbrough) Darragh Lenihan (free, Blackburn Rovers) Zack Steffen (loan, Manchester City)
Out: Sol Bamba (released) Lee Peltier (released) Neil Taylor (released) Nathan Wood (undisclosed, Swansea City) Toyosi Olusanya (free, St Mirren) Joe Lumley (loan, Reading) Sammy Ameobi (released) Dejan Stojanovic (undisclosed, Jahn Regensburg) Sol Brynn (loan, Swindon Town) Martin Payero (loan, Boca Juniors) Djed Spence (£13.2m, Tottenham Hotspur) Grant Hall (loan, Rotherham United)
Not seen many tip them to be outside the top six and I am no different. A few have them going straight up but most have them third-sixth. Wilder is good. Very good. He did not quite get them over the line last season and will have been disappointed at a bit of a fade out, but maybe they put so much into getting up the league, they just ran out of gas at the end. His style was starting to become implanted and the attacking football they showed was quite different to what the Boro fans had seen under Neil Warnock, but then it became a bit patchy at the end and some drab defeats took the shine off the rise, frittering away a solid playoff spot in the final few games.
The business has been relatively quiet and to say they finished seventh last season, you would think he might have done a bit more, but there is still time and I expect a striker or two to come in before the end of the window. Stefan is an upgrade on the error-prone Lumley in goal and Lenighan is a player Wilder has lusted after for a long time. Giles gives them legs in midfield. Isiah Jones was superb last season and allowed them to cash in on Spence, valuable funds that may help them net that striker (wages on loan from the Premier League).
Wilder has promotion know-how and if he’s backed to get a few more in, then they will be the side that will push the relegated sides the most (*if United get a few in we could contest them in that regard).
Key Player: Paddy McNair
The Boro Basham. Solid, dependable player who can defend, come out with the ball and score goals too. Just a Wilder type of player.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: I saw that our former manager had put his house up for sale (my wife has an odd hobby of scanning properties on Rightmove even though we are not looking to move). Interesting abode with lots of space, rooms but also bad taste. Namely the garish animal print stuff around his gaff and also the OTT number of photos of himself (and wife). Who puts pictures (wedding/family) of themselves up all over their family home? Come on, own up! Weird if you ask me. Bad enough seeing my ugly mug in the few mirrors we possess so no idea why you’d want more pictures of yourself. I digress. Wit, his estate agent pal, needs to have a word. Poor, cluttered decor can mean you won’t get the full value.
Verdict: Wish I could put them lower as a rival and the Wilder thing is still there despite the romping win we had and time elapsing, but sadly they will still be right up there again and probably even closer. Would not shock me if they went up as playoff winners.
2) Watford
Manager: Rob Edwards
Different type of appointment going away from the continental merry-go-round they have had before and maybe they might be going down a more long-term approach. Seems quite a brave move and appointing a lower league coach/manager with a good reputation deserves some credit. He will have more expectation on his shoulders than at Forest Green, but he has a squad packed full of quality.
In: Vakoun Issouf Bayo (£5.2m, Charleroi) Rey Manaj (undisclosed, Barcelona)
Out: Ben Foster (released) Nicolas Nkoulou (released) Andre Gray (free, Aris Saloniki) Juraj Kucka (released) Cucho Hernandez (undisclosed, Columbus Crew) Joshua King (free, Fenerbahce) Daniel Phillips (released) Adam Parkes (released) Philip Zinckernagel (undisclosed, Olympiacos) Moussa Sissoko (£1.8m, Nantes) Jorge Segura (loan, Independiente Medellin) Adam Masina (undisclosed, Udinese)Kiko Femina (Villareal) Derek Agyakwa (Port Vale)
Watford made a right mess of things again last season with managerial changes, a strange approach to recruitment and how they played. They had the odd good result but for the most part kind of limped to relegation and were long gone before the end of the season.
The expected exodus of some of the talented players has not really happened. Sarr, Pedro and Dennis remain and they have some really solid top-end Championship/lower-end Premier League players. There’s oodles of technical ability and if they can mix it up and are solid defensively then they will be just too talented for many sides. They have a look of Fulham (without the Mitrović) in that they could crash and burn but in a poor division, even with a new manager and some leaving, they have kept enough to be right up there.
Bayo comes in as a new striker from Belgium, but not many incomings besides and a few have moved on. A number have stayed, though, and they might have the biggest squad depth at this level, at least before the close of the window.
Key Player: Ismaila Sarr
Think Gibbs-White in ability/impact. How he has stayed is a mystery: he might go before the end of the window, but if he does not then he will rip up this league.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Elton John played two homecoming concerts at Vicarage Road this summer. I always wonder why we have not got any United-linked musicians to perform at the Lane. It has certainly been a long time since Springsteen. We have had the boxing recently and of course this summer would have been tricky with the Euros but surely Paul Heaton, Def Leppard or even Red Hot Chili Peppers should be approached. Seems a win-win for both performer and the club - we make money, they perform at their home ground (OK, pushing it with Flea, but he is clearly a fan!) and it’s good for the city. The Lane has the England U21s and I would say it cannot be long till we might even get a full England men's game after the success of the women's team and the semi-final, so let’s maximise the exposure of the best stadium in the world!
Verdict: Too much talent remains. There’s potentially a lack of a clear plan on or off the field, but if the players I discussed remain, even until January, that could be enough for them. It’s a boring pick, but a scan of the squad means it is hard to see them not being close.
1) Norwich City
Manager: Dean Smith
Like Bruce, not sure I rate him as a manager and another that is quite irritating. Not sure why but like Wilder, always seems a bit chippy. I was surprised he moved there so soon after leaving Villa but maybe knew he would not get a job like this for some time if he waited. Fans felt City got worse after he took over and that is a concern, but not sure anyone would have saved them. Needs a fast start but this season is when he will be properly assessed.
In: Isaac Hayden (loan, Newcastle United) Gabriel Sara (£9.5m, Sao Paulo)
Out: Lukas Rupp (released) Josip Drmic (released) Josh Giurgi (released) Aston Oxborough (released) Nelson Khumbeni (released) Reece McAlear (released) Matt Dennis (undisclosed, MK Dons) Rocky Bushiri (undisclosed, Hibernian) Dan Adshead (undisclosed, Cheltenham Town) Akin Famewo (undisclosed, Sheffield Wednesday) Przemyslaw Placheta (loan, Birmingham City) Flynn Clarke (loan, Walsall) Bali Mumba (loan, Plymouth Argyle) Christoph Zimmermann (undisclosed, SV Darmstadt 98) Christos Tzolis (loan, FC Twente) Pierre Lees-Melou (£2.1m, Brest)
City are my pick as champions. They may have once again been way out of their depth at the higher level but this also means they’ve kept the bulk of the squad that came up last time. They do not have Buendia but the rest are still here, and is the division weaker than when they were last here? I would say so.
Most of the players leaving were fringe or young players and there has not been much incoming, so it is almost the same squad as the one that ended the season. Gabriel Sala is an eye-catching signing that gives them extra creativity alongside former Blade Kieran Dowell. The backline shipped goals at the higher level but the likes of Hanley, Gibson, Aarons and the keepers Gunn and Krul are solid for this level. Isaac Hayden is a defensive midfielder that I would have loved at the Lane as he does the nasty stuff and stops teams coming through you routinely. Todd Cantwell is back and it is a big season after losing his way and not really impressing on loan at Bournemouth after being linked with clubs much higher a season ago. Young striker Adam Idah needs to take a step up now and make a proper claim to partner Pukki but it depends how City set up, as often, Dowell plays with Pukki as the lone striker and others supporting him.
City have a very loyal and large fan base and are a well-run club even if many will say the going up/coming down approach might be tiresome to Canaries fans and maybe even general football fans. However, without investment, it is hard to see what they can do differently. IF they took the approach of Villa or Forest this year and spent big on wages/signings and it did not work, they would be in a real mess. You look at the likes of Sunderland and Portsmouth to conclude that it’s not a business plan to follow and could lead to a far worse situation than the last few years, which at least has some excitement/success every other year and yields a lot of financial reward too.
Key Player: Teemu Pukki will once again score a bundle at this level and be right at the top of the divisional scoring list. Never relied on his pace particularly but a poacher and clever player, much like our own Billy Sharp.
Deadbat’s pointless thought: Norwich have two absolute beauties for kits. The home’s pinstripes ooze class. The red and gold away is a bobby dazzler too. Look simple, elegant but modern too.
Verdict: Like with Burnley and Dyche, if Norwich had Farke, I would not even debate this pick but even though I wavered between putting them third or fourth and top two, I just feel the squad, the ability to know how to go up and the fanbase means they will yo-yo back again. Probably to come back down next season!
So there we have it... feel free to pin it/remember these and say I told you so in a few months. I do think with a few key signings, we could easily be fourth or fifth, but without them reckon it will be another slow start and a matter of playing catch up/relying on smart windows to get back in contention.
David ‘Deadbat’ Beeden is best 'known' for his matchday reports and for being the co-host of The Tufty Club podcast, available on all good streaming services. Occasional tweeter @Deadbat_DB with sporadic ramblings also at tuftyclubsufc.wordpress.com.
A great deal of work, interesting reading..... thank you.. I can't say I agree with your predictions but then again football is all about opinions and time will tell!!
Once the transfer window closes, which IMO should be in line with the start of the season, we'll have a far better idea on how things will shape up...... especially on the Blades front.
Keep smiling and UTB
Thanks, David – I don’t know what we’d do without your in-depth analysis, not only for this but after every match – you’re a star!
I’m not sure that Norwich can – yet again – do the ‘bounce back’ thing. They’ve done it on so many occasions in the past, that it might be a push to expect them to do it again . . . but of course, in football, “one never knows”.
I pretty much agree with your lower-end-of-the-table finishing, but was a bit startled by some of your top end predictions. I hadn’t really put West Brom, Coventry or Millwall as high as you, and I’d also expect The Blades to be a little higher. But again at this stage it’s all subjective and “one never knows”.
Incidentally, regarding Club badges with animals, I think you’re right about Burnley. The next nearest is probably Coventry with three (2 eagles and an elephant). However, the prize for the most “stuff” on a badge possibly has to go to Southampton – a halo (nickname ‘Saints’), a football (obvious), a red & white scarf (supporters), a tree (New Forest), the sea (obvious) and a white rose (Hampshire coat of arms) phew!
Anyway, thanks for your thoughts – they’re always valid and interesting; now we’ll just have to see . . .