Leicester City v Blackpool - Match Preview

League leaders Blackpool visit the King Power Stadium on Saturday in front of the Sky Sports cameras, with Leicester looking to make amends after what has been an embarrasing week.

City were dumped out of the Capital One Cup on Tuesday, losing 4-2 to League Two side Burton Albion in the second round. That defeat was the third in a row for Leicester in all competitions and are desperate to return to winning ways.

They couldn't have picked a harder opponent in Blackpool. The Tangerines have bounced back from the playoff final heartache suffered last season in resounding fashion. They are currently top of the Championship and are the only team in the division to have a 100% record. A 2-0 win at Millwall was followed up by a 2-1 win against Leeds before last weekend they thumped Ipswich 6-0.

Leicester made eight changes for the game against Burton, and manager Nigel Pearson is expected to make a similar amount of changes as they return to league action. Wes Morgan, Danny Drinkwater, Lloyd Dyer and Jamie Vardy are all likely to start after all being rested on Tuesday.

Sean St Ledger and Zak Whitbread both completed 90 minutes in their returns from injury and could also start, while Marko Futacs also featured. Richie Wellens is the only injury absentee.

Blackpool have had a week off after being knocked out in the first round of the Capital One Cup, so manager Ian Holloway is likely to name the same side that beat Ipswich last weekend.

Nouha Dicko and Matt Phillips could come in if Holloway does opt to make changes, while winger Thomas Ince is likely to start after scoring four goals in three league games. Ian Evatt and Barry Ferguson are also options after returning from injury.


Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson: "We're playing a side currently at the top that have started the season very well and our level of performance needs to be what it was prior to the midweek game.

"If we can get that type of performance on a regular basis we will win games. That's the benchmark performance we're looking for and we also have to turn those performances into results.

"Ian's teams have played the same style for a long time. Their main strengths are the way they attack, we have to deal with that and make sure we exploit their weaknesses."


Match odds: Leicester (11/10) Draw (5/2) Blackpool (23/10)

Leicester to win 2-0 (10/1) Blackpool to win 2-1 (9/1)

Jermaine Beckford to score first (11/2) Thomas Ince to score anytime (7/4)

Leicester City September Preview

September is already looking like a crucial month for Leicester City's season. After two defeats in the league and the shock Capital One Cup loss to Burton Albion, the Foxes are looking to bounce back and get their season back on track. The month kicks off against current league leaders Blackpool, a game which Sky Sports will be broadcasting. City are in front of the cameras again after the international break, travelling to Molineux to face recently relegated Wolves. Two home games against Burnley and Hull follow before the month concludes with a long trip to Middlesbrough.

Saturday 1 September: Leicester City v Blackpool 17:20

Lowdown: The Tangerines have bounced back from the playoff final heartache suffered last season in resounding fashion. They are currently top of the Championship and are the only team in the division to have a 100% record. A 2-0 win at Millwall was followed up by a 2-1 win against Leeds before last weekend they thumped Ipswich 6-0. Although it's early days, Ian Holloway's men already look good to be battling it out for promotion at the end of the season and return to the Premier League.

Recent history: City took four points from the two games against Blackpool last season, but it should've been all six. The Foxes won 2-0 at the King Power Stadium on a cold Tuesday night in November thanks to goals from Andy King and Neil Danns. The reverse fixture saw City go 2-1 and then 3-2 up before Kevin Phillips equalised in injury time. The last time Blackpool came to Leicester and took all three points was at the beginning of the 2007/08 season, when Keith Southern scored the only goal of the game.

Player to watch: Thomas Ince. The son of England international Paul burst onto the scene last season and helped Blackpool reach the playoff final, in which he scored, but was unable to get the team promoted. He has already scored four goals this season, getting both in the opening day win at The Den and then another brace against Ipswich. That form has inevitably seen him linked with a move to the Premier League before the transfer deadline. Should he stay at Bloomfield Road, he will be one of the best players in the division this season.

Sunday 16 September: Wolves v Leicester City 13:15

Lowdown: Stale Solbakken's men have had an inconsistent start to life back in the Championship. The season began with an opening day defeat at Leeds before bouncing back by beating Barnsley. They were close to making it back to back wins against Derby, but a last minute equaliser denied them. Wolves have since sold Matt Jarvis and Steven Fletcher for nearly £25 million to West Ham and Sunderland respectively, meaning they are likely to strengthen before the transfer window shuts.

Recent history:  The last time both sides met was in the 2007/08 season, where the sides shared the spoils on both occasions. Coincidentally, the last fixture was also shown live on Sky Sports. That game in December ended 1-1 as Jarvis cancelled out Iain Hume's fourth minute opener. Earlier in the season, both sides played out a dour goalless draw. City went on to get relegated, while Wolves missed out on the playoffs by just one goal.

Player to watch: Kevin Doyle. The Irish international opened his account in the 1-1 draw against Derby, and with Steven Fletcher gone, will be likely to start alongside Sylvan Ebanks-Blake up front. Doyle knows where the net is in this division, having scored 18 goals in his two seasons in the Championship for Reading before moving to the West Midlands. He has only scored 21 goals for Wolves in three seasons, finding life harder in the Premier League. Now back in the second tier, Doyle will be confident of returning some of the £6.5m Wolves spent on him.

Wednesday 19 September: Leicester City v Burnley 19:45

Lowdown: The Clarets got off to the best possible start, beating Lancashire rivals Bolton Wanderers 2-0 at Turf Moor. However, two tricky away games at Middlesbrough and Huddersfield saw Eddie Howe's men return with no points, losing 3-2 and 2-0 respectively. Burnley have two home games against Brighton and Peterborough before visiting the King Power Stadium, so they'll be looking to come to Leicester with six points from six.

Recent history: The Foxes took four points from Burnley last season. In November, City won 3-1 thanks to goals from Paul Konchesky, David Nugent and a Paul Gallagher penalty. The return fixture at the King Power was less enthralling. Despite both sides still harbouring outside chances of reaching the playoffs, it was a tentative affair. The match ended 0-0 and also ended both sides seasons.

Player to watch: Charlie Austin. With fellow striker and Burnley born star Jay Rodriguez sold to Southampton, the responsibility of finding the net falls to Austin. He was the Clarets' top goalscorer in the league with 16 goals last season and has already scored four this season, against Bolton and Middlesbrough in the league and against Plymouth and Port Vale in the Capital One Cup. Don't be surprised if he has added to that tally when the sides meet in mid September.

Sunday 23 September: Leicester City v Hull City 15:00

Lowdown: This match is the first part of a double header which sees City manager Nigel Pearson come up against one of his former clubs. The Tigers have won, drew and lost each of their first three matches under new manager Steve Bruce. An opening day 1-0 win against Brighton was followed by a defeat at Blackburn by the same scoreline before drawing 0-0 at Charlton. Just like last season, Hull look like they will struggle to score goals, but won't concede many either.

Recent history: Both sides took three points a piece during the meetings last season. Hull won 2-1 at the KC Stadium thanks to an 88th minute winner by Robert Koren, but the Foxes got their revenge by winning 2-1 in March. A word of warning for City though as Leicester had a player sent off in both matches last season. Matt Mills saw red during the game in December, while Neil Danns followed suit in the return fixture.

Player to watch: Matty Fryatt. The former fox needs little introduction to City fans after scoring 62 goals acorss six seasons. He joined Hull for £1.2 million and has gone on to score 25 times. This season has already been hampered by an injury after being sent to see a specialist about an Achlles injury. He should return in time for this fixture, which is a bad sign for City fans as he scored in both games against Leicester last season.

Saturday 29 September: Middlesbrough v Leicester City 15:00

Lowdown: The month finishes with a trip to Middlesbrough, where Nigel Pearson spent four years and captained them to two promotions and three cup finals. After just missing out on the playoffs last season, Boro have got off to a good start, taking six points from nine. They were shocked by Barnsley on the opening day, losing 1-0, but bounced back by beating Burnley and Crystal Palace. However, they have to cope with the loss of left back Joe Bennett who has joined Aston Villa.

Recent history: Neither side had the upper hand last season, with both games finishing in draws. It will be almost a year to the day that City last travelled to the Riverside. On that occassion it was a Wednesday night and played out a goalless draw. The return fixture at the King Power saw City take the lead after seven minutes through David Nugent, only for Middlesbrough to take the lead with ten minutes left. However, Jermaine Beckford equalised with four minutes left.

Player to watch: Josh McEachran. The midfielder is on loan from Chelsea looking to get some games under his belt and his career back on track. He is highly regarded at Stamford Bridge but hasn't yet fulfilled his potential, failing to break into the Chelsea first team. The 19 year-old has represented England at under 17,19 and 21 levels and has already showed his ability in a Boro shirt. Expect him to shine this season in the Championship.

Points total: A disappointing August means that September is a very important month. The three home games are all winnable, but the two away games are more difficult prospects. If City end September  having collected betweem eight and 10 points, it should be deemed a successful month.

Meet the man who will play a big part in Team GB's Paralympic success

The British Paralympic Cycling team head coach isn’t a household name around these shores at the moment. But if Chris Furber’s plan comes to fruition, that could all change once the Paralympics has finished.

Furber was the mastermind behind Team GB’s success on the bike in Beijing, as the Paralympic Cycling Team won 20 medals, 17 of them gold, in the road and track cycling events. The cycling teams’ success accounted for a fifth of Great Britain’s medal haul of 2008. Had the cycling team stood alone as a country, they would have finished 9^th in the medals table above the likes of Brazil, Germany and France.

But speaking to us four months prior to the opening of the Paralympics, Furber is doubtful that his team can repeat the success of four years ago. “It’s going to be very challenging to do as well as we did in Beijing, for a number of reasons. The UCI, the world governing body, have changed the way that the medals look for the games, so there are less track medals and more road medals.  We won the majority of our medals on the track in Beijing, so there are less medals available to us. It’s going to be very difficult for us to be of the same level as we were out in Beijing. It was certainly one of those unique event s where everything went right on the day, so we’re not anticipating returning the same level as we did in Beijing.”

After Beijing, the team didn’t rest on their laurels. During the 2009 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in Manchester, Britain topped the medal winners table with 10 gold medals, three silver and one bronze - and set five new world records to boot. Two years later in the same competition in Montichiari, Italy, Britain repeated their success. Nine gold medals, eight silver and a bronze saw them again top the medals table, eight more medals than their nearest challengers China.

More reassuring for Furber was to see the team do well again in the World Championships in Los Angeles in February. Team GB won eight gold, seven silver and two bronze medals to again top the table to register their dominance ahead of this summer. But why have Britain had a resurgence in both able-bodied and Paralympic cycling?

“It’s been a combination of factors really” says Furber. “Number one I would say is the funding that we get from UK sports, which comes from the National Lottery, which is phenomenal. The able bodied squad get £27 million and the Para-cycling squad get £3.8 million. Number two is a fantastic group of athletes, who are all very dedicated and very committed to the cause, and number three is probably the attention to detail that we have from a coaching point of view. We try and leave no stone unturned and try and make sure we look for an extra one percent in everything we do. Whether it’s with the bikes, our training in the gym, our training on the track, whether it be the clothes that we wear or the helmets we use, we are always looking for that marginal gain in order to try and be the best.”

While the likes of Chris Hoy, Mark Cavendish and Victoria Pendleton will be on the lips of the watching public hoping to bring home gold for GB’s able bodied cycling team, who should we look out for when Britain’s Para-cyclists take to the saddle? “All of them!” jokes Furber. But it’s probably true. In Beijing, Britain collected 12 of the13 gold medals on offer in the track cycling, while their form in the World Championships in preparation for London suggests they will again top the medals table.

“Sarah Storey is a phenomenal athlete on our programme. She is going for five gold medals with the Paralympic squad and I don’t think there will be an athlete in the Games who can rival that. She won four golds and a silver in recent World Championships so she is certainly in good form to be able to do that. Also as a bit of an outsider there is a guy called Mark Colbourne who is from South Wales. He’s quite new to our squad and he’s one of our more disabled athletes in the C1 class who has been riding with us for the last 18 months. He’s going from strength to strength and so he’s probably one to watch out for, he’s a bit of a revelation and come to the squad late but I think he will do very well in London.”

Storey and Colbourne are the stars of today, but the long term goal is to inspire a new generation of cyclists. After every Olympic and Paralympic Games, thousands if not millions of young children are inspired to replicate their new heroes success. When London bid for the games in 2005, the promise of an Olympic legacy was one of the reasons the Games were awarded to them. But how can someone get spotted if they want to become a star of future Paralympic Games?

“The easiest way to do it is to go and join your local club. If you go on the British Cycling website, which is britishcycling.org.uk there are links to clubs who look after Para-cyclists and have coaches that look after them. We have a national disability series that’s run all over the country on closed roads circuits so they’re safe so you don’t have to contend with cars and buses. They run regularly during the summer. We also have a National Track Championships, which are linked in with our able bodied National Track Championships, and also a National Road Championships as well.”

 “In terms of what the National Squad does to try and identify talent, we look at those races as a breeding ground for talent. The standard that we have at the moment is such that if you want to be competitive at a Para-cycle level, then you need to be able to race alongside able-bodies riders. Everybody in our squad races alongside able-bodied competitors and does well, so if you want to be a Paralympic cycling champion that’s the level you have to aspire to and be doing well.”

If Team GB can replicate their form of Beijing, then Furber and his coaching staff will not just be a household name, but the toast of the nation.

Leicester City v Burton Albion - Match Preview

The Blue Army take a break from league action, focussing their attention on the second round of the Capital One Cup when they host League Two side Burton Albion on Tuesday evening.

Both teams are familiar with each other having recently played a pre-season friendly at Burton's Pirelli Stadium just 27 days ago, with the Foxes winning 3-1 thanks to goals from Jeffrey Schlupp, Lloyd Dyer and Neil Danns.

That game was marred by an injury to defender Sean St Ledger, but the Irish international is set to return to the squad, along with fellow defender Zak Whitbread. One of them could come in for Liam Moore, who picked up a knock at the weekend. Richie Wellens and Marko Futacs are both out.

Manager Nigel Pearson could choose to freshen up the side after the 2-1 defeat at Blackburn on Saturday. The likes of Schlupp, Martyn Waghorn and Neil Danns could start after being used limitedly so far this season.

Burton, managed by former Foxes defender Gary Rowett, have no new injury worries. Striker Calvin Zola returned from injury in the 1-0 defeat against Fleetwood at the weekend and could start. Ex Foxes Billy Kee and Adi Yussuff are also likely to feature.

The Brewers knocked out Sheffield United in a penalty shootout in the last round, while City beat Torquay United 4-0.

Match odds: Leicester (1/3) Draw (4/1) Burton Albion (8/1)

Leicester to win 4-0 (12/1) Burton Albion to win 2-1 (22/1)

Jeffrey Schlupp to score first (5/1) Billy Kee to score at anytime (11/4)

Blackburn Rovers v Leicester City - Match Preview

Leicester City travel to recently relegated Blackburn Rovers tomorrow, looking to bounce back from their first defeat of the season.

The Foxes lost 2-1 at Charlton on Tuesday and will be looking to get back to winning ways this weekend, but will certainly be in for a tough game at Ewood Park against one of the promotion favourites.

After spending ten seasons in the top flight, Rovers were relegated from the Premier League after a turbulent season. Life in the Championship has got off to a steady start, drawing 1-1 at Ipswich before beating Hull City 1-0 on Wednesday.

Colin Kazim-Richards, who has scored in both games for Blackburn, is a doubt after hobbling off with a knee injury in midweek. Fellow striker Leon Best is out for six months, meaning manager Steve Kean will have to turn to either David Goodwillie or Nuno Gomes should the Turkish international not recover in time.

Leicester have no new injury worries. Defenders Sean St Ledger and Zak Whitbread, midfielder Richie Wellens and striker Marko Futacs all remain on the sidelines.

However, City manager Nigel Pearson could make changes following the midweek defeat at Charlton. Andy King is likely to start after coming off the bench in the past two games and scoring, while Neil Danns, David Nugent and Anthony Knockaert could also start.

Blackburn Rovers manager Steve Kean: "I think it has been a solid start and two solid performances.

"For us to have played against two good teams with the points that we've got and another home game coming up is good.

"It has been hard to break teams down but it has been a solid start from us."

Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson: "Blackburn have got some good players and it will be a tough game for us, but if we play with the same dynamic application as we did in the second half on Tuesday, I'm sure we'll cause them a few problems.

"It's a game we want to try and win, but as with many games in the Championship, it's another tough fixture for us.

"We now have a good opportunity to move on and we're looking forward to it."

Match odds: Blackburn (13/10) Draw (23/10) Leicester (21/10)

Blackburn to win 2-1 (8/1) Leicester to win 2-0 (14/1)

Danny Murphy to score first (14/1) David Nugent to score first (7/1)

Charlton Athletic v Leicester City - Preview

Leicester City travel to the Valley on Tuesday night to face a Charlton side with some familiar faces.

The League One champions are managed by former City player and coach Chris Powell, while defender Michael Morrison and striker Yann Kermorgant are both set to start against their former club.

Kermorgant's match up against City is of particular interest as he infamously missed a penalty in the playoff semi final against Cardiff in 2009/10, coming in for much criticism from fans. That was the Frenchman's last competitve action in a City shirt as he was loaned back to his homeland before being released at the beginning of last season.

Powell signed him and was a key player in the Addicks' League One title winning campaign, scoring 12 goals in 39 appearances and formed a good partnership with Bradley Wright-Phillips. Defender Morrison, who also won the League One title with Leicester, was another important player last season, starting in all but one of Charlton's league games.

Both teams will be looking to build on positive opening day results and performances from the weekend. City beat Peterborough 2-0, while Charlton were unlucky not to take all three points at Birmingham, conceding a last minute equaliser in a 1-1 draw.

Foxes manager Nigel Pearson could name an unchanged side for the fourth game in a row. However, Andy King could start after coming off the bench and scoring at the weekend, while David Nugent, Neil Danns and Anthony Knockaert are also pushing for starts. Sean St Ledger, Zak Whitbread and Richie Wellens are all out. Paul Konchesky is set to play against his former club.

Charlton have no new injury worries for their first home match in the Championship for three years so could also start with the same team that drew at St Andrews. Summer signings Jordan Cook, Lawrie Wilson and Salim Kerker are all pushing for starts after starting on the bench on Saturday.

Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson: "I have an awful lot of respect for Chris, not just as a coach and a manager, but as a man. I think he's got a really bright future in the game but, as always, my thoughts are about us performing.

"We need to get our level of performance right and if we do that, we've got a good chance of winning the game. We're going to their place, I expect it to be a tough game and they have some decent players."


Match odds: Charlton (19/10) Draw (23/10) Leicester (7/5)

Chalrton to win 1-0 (17/2) Leicester to win 2-1 (8/1)

Yann Kermorgant to score first (13/2) Jamie Vardy to score first (11/2)

Leicester Bharat U18's 5-4 Glenfield United U18's

Glenfield United under 18's gave a spirited performance but were unable to avoid defeat in their pre-season game at Leicester Bharat.

United took the lead after just five minutes, but Bharat struck back with avengence, scoring four times in the first half, including a hat-trick from their number ten, to all but put the game out of Glenfield's reach.

However, things picked up in the second half and a much better display saw Glenfield score three times but were unable to avoid defeat.

Results aren't important during pre-season though and the manager and players will be happy to get some much needed fitness ahead of the new season which starts in two weeks time in what were difficult conditions.

With the sun beating down, Glenfield got off to a great start. A cross from the right by Tak Mazundo was met by an unmarked Will Mayne who headed home after five minutes.

Mayne nearly made it 2-0 two minutes later. However, after being put through and beating the defence he shot straight at the 'keeper.

Bharat then levelled the scores after twelve minutes against the run of play. A long ball over the top saw Bharat's number ten run in one-on-one with United 'keeper Mitch Sewell and slotted the ball into the bottom right corner.

United nearly responded in the perfect fashion. A free kick from the left was whipped in by Jake Seaton and met at the back post by centre back Kyle Mclauchlan who headed against the bar.

To rub salt into the wound, the hosts went up the other end and took the lead. Once again, it was Bharat's number ten with the goal, this time running through Glenfield's defence and firing home.

Glenfield created more chances after going behind but spurned them after superb goalkeeping from the Bharat 'keeper. United were then made to pay in quick succession. Firstly, the thorn in the visitors side, Bharat's number ten, got through before squaring to his strike partner to tap into an empty net.

A minute later, Mclauchlan was closed down by the hosts number ten who rounded Sewell to complete his hat-trick and make the score 4-1 to Leicester Bharat which is how it stayed until half time.

United were perhaps understandably struggling to cope with the humid weather in their first match of the season, while the scoreline was an unfair reflection of the way the first half went. After some words of encouragement by Glenfield manager David Ball during the half time interval, the visitors began the task of reducing the deficit.

A heavy rain shower at the start of the second half seemed to freshen up both the conditions and the players, while the ball was now zipping across the grass, much to the benefit of the visitors' style of play.

This proved to be the case when United scored two goals in four minutes. Firstly, Mazundo scored the goal of the match as he scored from the edge of the area into the bottom right hand corner.

Kyle Gough then capitalised on an error in the Bharat defence to fire home into the same corner. With more than 20 minutes left, the comeback was certainly possible.

With United pressing for the equaliser, the hosts caught Glenfield on the counter attack. Once again, it was Bharat's number ten with his fourth and the team's fifth, finishing from six yards out.

Two minutes were left on the clock when good work from winger Nuno saw him cross to Jake Moseley who showed good composure, avoiding the tackles of two defenders before scoring. However, time ran out for Glenfield to find a deserved equaliser.

It was a good performance from a side who have yet to forge partnerships and are not yet familiar with each other. Glenfield are set to play Leicester Bharat in the league this season and will be confident that they can inflict revenge when the sides meet later this year.

Leicester City v Peterborough United - Preview

Leicester City get their 2012/13 nPower Championship campaign underway on Saturday as they host Peterborough United at the King Power stadium.

The Foxes are once again expected to reach at least the playoffs this season, and will be hoping to get the season underway with three points.

Peterborough meanwhile are tipped to struggle but will be confident that they can upset the odds and beat their near neighbours.

Both teams come into the game after convincing wins in the League Cup. City beat Torquay United 4-0 to progress into the second round, while Posh beat Southend United by the same scoreline.

Last season, Peterborough took four points off Leicester, drawing 1-1 at the King Power stadium in December before winning 1-0 at London Road in April and denting City's playoff ambitions.

Liam Moore is fit to play after it was feared that he had broken his jaw in the win at Torquay, while Anthony Knockaert returns from international duty. However, City are without Zak Whitbread, Sean St Ledger and Richie Wellens while defender Tom Parkes is suspended.

Strikers Emile Sinclair and Tyrone Barnett are fit for Peterborough. Nathaniel Mendez-Laing (hamstring), Daniel Kearns (knee), Tommy Rowe (collar bone) and long term absentee Dave Hibbert are all out.

Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson: "We're pleased to get into the competitive games. We had a good result at Torquay on Tuesday but this is what it's all about. It is an unusual start to have a League Cup game before the league programmes starts, but this is what we've been working towards and we're looking forward to the game.

"It is always tough against Peterborough because they've got players who are very good in possession and play attacking football. We have to make sure we make it a difficult game for them"

Peterborough United manager Darren Ferguson: "'Obviously we would have loved to start the league campaign with a home fixture, but this is the closest game we could of possibly got away from home and I am sure we will take a good following of supporters and it should be a great atmosphere.

'Leicester have bought wisely over the summer, bringing in three players that I know well from Manchester United in Ritchie De Laat, Matty James and Danny Drinkwater. Nigel Pearson will have his team organised and they will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season"

Match odds: Leicester (8/15) Draw (14/5) Peterborough (11/2)

Leicester to win 2-0 (6/1). Peterborough to win 2-1 (16-1)

Jamie Vardy to score first (5/1). Lee Tomlin to score first (9/1)

Premier League Preview 2012/13

"Aguerooooooooo!" 2011/12 saw the greatest ever ending to a Premier League season, and one which will unlikely be bettered for years. But that shouldn't put you off to looking forward to this season. One thing that is guarenteed with the Premier League is that it always brings up surprising results, great goals and most importantly, entertaining football. Champions Manchester City and city rivals Manchester United are the two favourites to win this season's title, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool also in with a shot. The two latter teams, along with Aston Villa, Norwich  Swansea and West Brom all have new managers going into the new season hoping to make their mark, while Reading, Southampton and West Ham return to the top flight looking to re-establish themselves. 2012/13 certainly has a lot to live up to!

Arsenal

Last season: The club's 125th anniversary season got off to a poor start with four defeats from the first seven games, including a highly embarrasing 8-2 defeat at Old Trafford. Manager Arsene Wenger was supposedly a man under pressure, but form improved and another season of Champions League football was guarenteed. The turn around was largely thanks to the return of striker Robin van Persie, who enjoyed the form of his career. He won the Premier League Golden Boot with 30 goals and often won games single handedly throughout the season. RVP's future at the Emirates is now uncertain after failing to agree a new contract and is expected to leave this summer. Two new strikers, Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, have been added, but it's asking a lot for them to replace van Persie's goals in their debut seasons. Midfielder Santi Cazorla is also an exciting season to a team who will be desperate to end their drought of eight years without a trophy.

Transfers. In: Santi Cazorla (£16.5m from Malaga), Olivier Giroud (£12.8m from Montpellier), Lukas Podolski (£10.9m from Cologne) 
Out: Carlos Vela (£6m to Real Sociedad), Oguzhan Ozyakup (£400,000 to Besiktas), Denilson (Loan to Sao Paulo), Joel Campbell (Loan to Real Betis), Benik Afobe (Loan to Bolton Wanderers), Rhys Murphy (Free to Telstar), Jeffrey Monakana (Free to Preston North End), Ben Glasgow (Free to Stoke City), Alban Bunjaku (Free to Sevilla), James Campbell (Free to Dundee United), Gavin Hoyte (Free to Dagenham & Redbridge), Pedro Botelho (Free to Atletico Paranaense), Manuel Almunia (Free to Watford), George Brislen-Hall, Sean McDermott (Both released).

Giroud was Ligue 1 top goalscorer last season.

Key Player: Olivier Giroud. Should van Persie leave as expected, Frenchman Giroud will have to step up to the plate. The French striker was signed from Ligue 1 champions Montpellier this summer after becoming the league's top goalscorer with 21 goals. That form earned him a call up to France's Euro 2012 squad. While the step from Ligue 1 to the Premier League can be difficult - just ask Marouanne Chamakh - many pundits expect Giroud to shine this season.

Prediction: Won't challenge for the title, but should make the top four even if van Persie does leave. 4th

Aston Villa

Last season: It was always likely to end in tears. The appointment of former Birmingham manager Alex McLeish to the Villa Park dugout was greeted with protests last summer. Fans gave him some time, but by the end of the season after a 16th place finish, the club's lowest ever points total in the Premier League (38), least wins in a season (7) and worst home record in Villa's 138 year history, there was only going to be one decision. Yes, McLeish was unlucky with injuries, seeing striker Darren Bent pick up a season ending injury in February and captain Stylian Petrov diagnosed with acute leukemia were both huge blows, but the football on show was dull. McLeish was sacked and replaced by former Norwich City manager Paul Lambert, who faces the task of bringing the good times back to Villa Park.

Transfers. In: Ron Vlaar (£3.2m from Feyenoord), Karim El Ahmadi (Undisclosed from Feyenoord), Matthew Lowton (Undisclosed from Sheffield United), Brett Holman (Free transfer from AZ Alkmaar) 
Out: James Collins (£2.5m to West Ham United), Carlos Cuellar (Free to Sunderland), Connor Taylor (Free to Walsall), Reece Caira (Free to Western Sydney Australia), Emile Heskey, Ebby Nelson-Addy, Charlie Ward, Richard Bryan, Matthew Coton, Darious Darkin, Seb Jenkins (All released)

Bent is looking to bounce back from a serious injury.

Key Player: Darren Bent. Prior to the ruptured knee ligament injury which ended his season at Wigan in February and led him to miss England's Euro 2012 campaign, Bent had scored nine goals and finished the season as the club's top goalscorer. Villa payed £24m for Bent from Sunderland and he'll want to return some of that investment this season. Providing he fully recovers from his injury, his goals will be enough to possibly fire Villa to a top half finish.

Prediction: Life should be more comfortable for Villa fans this season. 10th

Chelsea

Last season: With the club 5th and still in the FA Cup and Champions League, Andre Villas-Boas was the eigth managerial sacking under Roman Abramovich's nine year tenure as Chelsea owner. AVB's assistant Roberto di Matteo was put in charge for the remainder of the season. Not even the most optimistic of Chelsea fans could've predicted what would happen come May. Firstly, Di Matteo guided the Blues to their fourth FA Cup final win in six years, beating Liverpool 2-1. A dramatic penalty shootout win over Bayern Munich at their own Allianz Arena - after beating Barcelona in the semis - topped off an incredible month and Abramovich's relentless pursuit of winning the Holy Grail, the Champions League, was fulfilled. Di Matteo was given the job on a permanent basis and has been quick to buy, spending over £60 million at the time of writing. The departure of club legend Didier Drogba to Shanghai will be a big void to fill, most probably by Fernando Torres.

Transfers. In: Eden Hazard (£32m from Lille), Oscar (£25m from Internacional), Marko Marin (£6.5m from Werder Bremen), George Brady (£250,000 from Cannes), Thorgan Hazard (Undisclosed from Lens).
Out: Didier Drogba (Free to Shanghai Shenhua), Salomon Kalou (Free to Lille), Marko Mitrovic (Free to Brescia), Rhys Taylor (Free to Southend United), Jeffrey Bruma (Loan to Hamburg), Romelu Lukaku (Loan to West Bromwich Albion), Ben Gordon (Loan to Birmingham City), Patrick van Aanholt, Tomas Kalas (Loan to Vitesse), Thibaut Courtois (Loan to Atletico Madrid), Kevin de Bruyne (Loan to Werder Bremen), Jose Bosingwa (Released)

Torres won the Euro 2012 Golden Boot

Key Player: Fernando Torres. The Spanish striker has been the butt of many jokes since he failed to live up to the £50 million price tag Chelsea paid for him in January 2011, especially after missing an open goal at Old Trafford in September. Under Di Matteo, Torres' confidence rose and consequently, so did the goal return, scoring six goals including a hat-trick against Queens Park Rangers. This summer Torres won the Euro 2012 Golden Boot after scoring three times and one assist, suggesting he may well be back to his best and silencing his critics.

Prediction: New signings may take time to gel, but could be dark horses for the title. 3rd

Everton

Last season: It was a season of two halves for the Toffees. Prior to the January transfer window, Everton got off to yet another slow start, losing eight games and struggling in the bottom half. New additions were needed and manager David Moyes wasted no time, buying Darren Gibson and Nikica Jelavic from Manchester United and Rangers respectively, while adding familiar faces in Steven Pienaar and Landon Donovan on loan. They all played a crucial role in a resurgent end to the season, only losing two of their last 18 games against Arsenal and Liverpool to finish seventh as well as reaching the FA Cup semi final. Pienaar has been added permanently this summer, and Everton fans will be targeting a place in Europe this season. The sale of Jack Rodwell to Manchester City could prove to be a loss.

Transfers. In: Steven Pienaar (£4.5m from Tottenham Hotspur), Steven Naismith (Free from Rangers).
Out: Jack Rodwell (£12m to Manchester City), Tim Cahill (£1m to New York Red Bulls), Joseph Yobo (Undisclosed to Fenerbahce). Joao Silva (Undisclosed to Levski Sofia), James Wallace (Undisclosed to Tranmere Rovers), Adam Forshaw (Undisclosed to Brentford), Aristote Nsiala (Free to Accrington Stanley), Marcus Hanhemann, James McFadden and Femi Orenuga (All released)

Jelavic was Everton's top goalscorer last season

Key Player: Nikica Jelavic. David Moyes rarely spends a lot of money, but the £5.5 million spent for Croatia striker Jelavic already looks like a sound investment. Questions were asked whether Jelavic could be as prolific as he was north of the border with Rangers, but 11 goals in 16 appearances meant he finished as the club's top goalscorer, despite only being on Merseyside for five months. If he can replicate that return this season then European football will return to Goodison Park.

Prediction: If injuries and suspensions are kind to what is still a small squad, they can match or maybe even better last season's finish. 7th

Fulham

Last season: Martin Jol's tenure at Fulham got off to a slow start, winning just two of their first 13 league games, while they were unlucky to exit the Europa League at the group stage. The goals of Clint Dempsey and January loan acquisition Pavel Pogrebnyak saw the Cottagers climb the table, eventually finishing 9th. The duo scored 23 of Fulham's 48 league goals, with Dempsey becoming the first American to score 50 Premier League goals. Pogrebnyak has since joined Reading, although strikers Mladen Petric and Hugo Rodallega have signed. Once again, a top half finish will be a great achievement for Fulham.

Transfers. In: Mladen Petric (Free from Hamburg), Hugo Rodallega (Free from Wigan Athletic), Sascha Riether (Loan from Cologne).
Out: Marcel Gecov (Undisclosed from Gent), Dickson Etuhu (Undisclosed from Blackburn Rovers), Andrew Johnson (Free to Queens Park Rangers), Danny Murphy (Free to Blackburn Rovers), Pavel Pogrebnyak (Free to Reading), Orlando Sa (Free to AEL Limassol), Bjorn Helge Risse (Free to Lillestrom)


Dempsey scored 23 goals for Fulham last season.

Key Player: Clint Dempsey. The American enjoyed his best season at Fulham during 2011/12. He was Fulham's top goalscorer and Player of the Season, awards he has won for the past two seasons, and was voted the fourth best player in the Premier League. That has led to him being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool this summer, but at the time of writing has stayed at Craven Cottage. He is however out of contract in 2013, so unless a new contract can be agreed, Dempsey could leave Fulham before the transfer window shuts.

Prediction: If Dempsey leaves as expected, the Cottagers may struggle for goals. Should have enough to stay up comfortably though. 13th

Liverpool

Last season: Victory in the Carling Cup - the first trophy in six years at Anfield - and reaching the FA Cup final wasn't enough for club legend Kenny Dalglish to keep his job. A poor league record, ultimately finishing the season in 8th, cost him, as did the way the club handled the racism issue involving Luis Suarez which hung over the club for the majority of the season. Brendan Rodgers was appointed manager this summer after drawing plaudits for the attractive passing football he encouraged while at Swansea and will certainly want to improve on last season's poor finish. The Reds are back in Europe after missing out last season, and a good run in the Europa League or one of the domestic cups again would be welcome. In the league, Champions League qualification remains the aim, but that looks out of reach again this season.

Transfers. In: Joe Allen (£15m from Swansea City), Fabio Borini (£10m from Roma) 
Out: Dirk Kuyt (Undisclosed to Fenerbahce), Maxi Rodriguez (Undisclosed to Newell's Old Boys), Alberto Aquilani (Undisclosed to Fiorentina), Craig Bellamy (Undisclosed to Cardiff City), Fabio Aurellio (Free to Gremio), Stephen Darby (Free to Bradford City), David Amoo (Free to Preston North End), Toni Silva (Free to Barnsley)

Lucas is a regular starter for Brazil.

Key Player: Lucas Leiva. The Brazilian took some time to find his feet at Anfield, but the 2010/11 season saw the midfielder play a key role. He picked up the Liverpool Player of the Year in 2010 and looked to carry that form into last season. After some impressive performances, he picked up a season ending injury and proved to be a big miss for Liverpool. Now back from injury, Lucas is hoping to re-establish himself in Liverpool's and Brazil's midfield.

Prediction: Will improve on last season's finish, but not in the top four which the fans and owners want. 6th

Manchester City

Last season: It was an ending which all Manchester City fans will remember for the rest of their lives. 2-1 down to Queens Park Rangers going into stoppage time on the final day of the season, City needed to somehow produce the comeback of all comebacks to win the title from under rivals Manchester United's noses. Edin Dzeko scored an equaliser two minutes into stoppage time, before the final kick of the game saw Sergio Aguero strike home to send City fans into delirium and secure City's first title in 44 years, winning the league on goal difference. The only downside from last season was the performance in the Champions League, exiting at the group stage, albeit from a tough group. Roberto Mancini will be hoping to rectify that this season.

Transfers. In: Jack Rodwell (£12m from Everton) 
Out: Vladimir Weiss (£1.3m to Pescara), Greg Cunningham (Undisclosed to Bristol City), Wayne Bridge (Loan to Brighton & Hove Albion), Omar Elabdellaoui (Loan to Feyenoord), Ahmed Benali, Stuart Taylor, Gai Assulin, Owen Hargreaves (All released)

Yaya Toure scored 13 goals from midfield last season.

Key Player: Yaya Toure. His commanding displays and surging runs were a key part of City getting results last season, as is his ability to score crucial goals. After scoring the winners in last season's FA Cup semi final and final, he scored 13 goals last season. They included the two goals that won City the match at Newcastle in the penultimate game of the season, which would have all but handed United the title. He was missed in January when he went to the African Nations Cup, and with the tournament coming around again this season, City will hope they can survive a month without him.

Prediction: Should be as strong as they were last season and will hope to go further in the Champions League as well. 1st

Manchester United

Last season: It was a heartbreaking end to what was ultimately a disappointing season. United crashed out at the Champions League group stage after an embarrasing defeat to Basle, while their subsequent campaign in the Europa League saw them outclassed by Athletic Bilbao. Domestically, they were shocked at Old Trafford by Championship side Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup and lost to Liverpool at Anfield in the FA Cup Fourth Round. However, they were extremely unlucky in missing out on the Premier League title. Not only for the dramatic way it ended, but the comeback they mounted to get back into contention in the first place. They are a team in transition, with the likes of Phil Jones, David de Gea, Danny Welbeck and Chris Smalling all promising to be big players in years to come as the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand come towards the end of their career. Sir Alex Ferguson will also want to retire on a high by winning a title or the Champions League sooner rather than later.


Vidic: Returning from an eight month spell on the sidelines.

Transfers. In: Shinji Kagawa (Undisclosed from Borussia Dortmund), Nick Powell (Undisclosed from Crewe Alexandra)
Out: Ritchie De Laet and Matt James (Undisclosed to Leicester City), Oliver Norwood (Undisclosed to Huddersfield Town), Park Ji-Sung (Undisclosed to Queens Park Rangers), Paul Pogba (Undisclosed to Juventus), Zeki Fryers (Undisclosed to Tottenham Hotspur), Fabio (Loan to Queens Park Rangers), Ben Amos (Loan to Hull City), Tomasz Kuszczak (Free to Brighton & Hove Albion), Michael Owen (Released)

Key Player: Nemanja Vidic. Not only was the 3-2 defeat in Basle last December see United exit the Champions League, but it also saw a season ending injury to their Serbian defender. The 2010/11 Premier League Player of the Year was certainly a big miss and many United fans point to Vidic's absence as to why they missed out on the title. He's returned to pre-season and providing he can stay injury free, will strengthen United's title credentials this season.

Prediction: New signing Kagawa will add more quality in midfield, but will it be enough? 2nd

Newcastle United

Last season: The Toon were the surprise package of last season, finshing the season in 5th and challenging for a Champions League place right up until the end of the season. After selling key midfielders Joey Barton and Kevin Nolan, many had expected Newcastle to struggle, but Alan Pardew found some real gems to replace them. Yohan Cabaye pulled the strings in midfield and Senegalise strikers Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse fired in the goals, scoring 29 goals between them. Their league position means they have qualified for the Europa League this season, which could provide greater strain on what is a thin squad. Expectations will also be higher on Tyneside than they were last season, and it could be a struggle to keep their star players.

Transfers. In: Gael Bigirimana (Undisclosed from Coventry City), Curtis Good (£500,000 from Melbourne Heart), Romain Amalfitano (Free from Rennes)
Out: Leon Best (£3m to Blackburn Rovers), Fraser Forster (£2m to Celtic), Danny Guthrie (Free to Reading), Alan Smith (Free to MK Dons), Peter Lovenkrands (Free to Birmingham City), Tamas Kadar (Free to Roda).

Cabaye signed for Newcastle from Lille last summer.

Key Player: Yohan Cabaye. His transfer to Newcastle from Lille was one of the signings of last season. The midfielder was lauded for his displays in midfield and was a demon at set pieces, his free kick in the 3-0 win against Manchester United was a particular highlight. He was called up to France's Euro 2012 squad this summer and was one of their best players, scoring against Ukraine. Keep up his form and he could be heavily linked with a move from St James' Park.

Prediction: European distractions mean they won't finish as high as last season, but a top half finish should be achieveable. 8th

Norwich City

Last season: Paul Lambert worked wonders during his time at Carrow Road, guiding Norwich to back to back promotions, followed by a comfortable 12th placed finish in the Premier League last season. His achievements would always attract the interest from a bigger club and when Aston Villa came calling this summer, Norwich were left helpless. Chris Hughton is a very good replacement, himself doing a great job at Birmingham last season and his 18 month spell at Newcastle. Last seasons key players have stayed loyal, including striker Grant Holt who signed a new three year deal this summer. It remains to be seen whether Norwich's squad, largely plucked from the Football League, can stay in the Premier League for a second season without Lambert.



Holt was tipped by some to be in England's Euro 2012 squad.

Transfers. In: Robert Snodgrass (Undisclosed from Leeds United), Michael Turner (Undisclosed from Sunderland), Steven Whittaker (Free from Rangers), Jacob Butterfield (Free from Barnsley)Out: Andrew Crofts (Undisclosed to Brighton & Hove Albion), Zak Whitbread (Free to Leicester City), Aaron Wilbraham (Free to Crystal Palace), Adam Drury (Free to Leeds United), Josh Dawkin and Matt Ball (Both released)

Key Player: Grant Holt. He was heavily linked to follow Lambert to Villa until he signed a new contract. The club captain scored 15 goals last season and terrorised defenders with his physical presence, leading to some calling for his inclusion in England's Euro 2012 squad. Roy Hodgson decided to leave him out, but an England cap this season won't be out of the question if he can carry on scoring to keep the Canaries in the top flight for another season.

Prediction: The dreaded second-season syndrome could affect the Canaries as they struggle with life after Lambert. 18th

Queens Park Rangers

Last season: By the skin of their teeth, QPR stayed in the top flight on the last day of the season. After sacking Neil Warnock in January, Mark Hughes was given the task of keeping Rangers in the Premier League. They won their last five home league games to give them a chance on the final day at Man City. On one hand, they were unlucky with the dramatic events that happened in the final moments at the Etihad as a win would have seen them stay up. But on the other, some dubious decisions went against relegation rivlas Bolton in their match at Stoke which saw the Trotters ultimately go down to the Championship. Hughes has strengthened his squad, with some signings raising question marks like the injury prone Andrew Johnson, others looking like bargains such as left back Fabio on a season long loan and the acquisition of Park Ji-Sung for an initial £2 million.

Transfers. In: Park Ji-Sung (Undisclosed from Manchester United), Samba Diakte (Undisclosed from Nancy), Ryan Nelsen (Free from Tottenham Hotspur), Andy Johnson (Free from Fulham), Robert Green (Free from West Ham United), Junior Hoilett (Free from Blackburn Rovers), Fabio (Loan from Manchester United) 
Out: Paddy Kenny (Undisclosed to Leeds United), Heidar Helguson (Undisclosed to Cardiff City), Peter Ramage (Free to Crystal Palace), Fitz Hall (Free to Watford), Rowan Vine (Free to St Johnstone), Bruno Perone, Danny Shittu, Danny Gabbidon, Gary Borrowdale, Lee Cook, Patrick Agyemang, Akos Buzsaky (All released)

Taarabt has scored 29 goals during his time at Loftus Road.

Key Player: Adel Taarabt. For a player who believes he be playing at Real Madrid, the 2010/11 season was a disappointment. The Moroccan winger has all the tricks in the book but failed to execute them at the right time throughout last season, proving it's one thing doing it in the Championship, but quite another at the top level. This season is the time for Taarabt to show everyone what all the self hype is all about.

Prediction: Should comfortably stave off relegation this season after buying some gems in the transfer market. 11th

Reading

Last season: As always, a late season surge saw Reading rocket up the table, this time seeing them crowned winners of the Championship. They won 14 games from 16 between February and April to pip Southampton and West Ham, both of whom had shared the lead throughout the season. It was all the more remarkable as they had sold their two best players from the previous season. Striker Shane Long joined West Brom and captain Matt Mills left for Leicester. There lies the key to Reading's success - they have no superstars. Team morale is their biggest strength, all willing to run through a brick wall for manager Brian McDermott. The Royals were taken over by a Russian tycoon who have serious cash to splash, but have decided to not go on a spending spree. Some canny free transfers have been made as they look set to keep the spirit that did so well for them last season. If they are struggling by the time the January transfer window comes around, expect them to strengthen.

Transfers. In: Chris Gunter (£2.3m from Nottingham Forest), Adrian Mariappa (Undisclosed from Watford), Gareth McCleary (Free from Nottingham Forest), Danny Guthrie (Free from Newcastle United), Pavel Pogrebnyak (Free from Fulham), Nicky Shorey (Free from West Bromwich Albion) 
Out: Mathieu Manset (Undisclosed to Sion), Michail Antonio (Undisclosed to Sheffield Wednesday), Andy Griffin, Brian Howard, Cedric Baseya, Jacob Walcott, Ethan Gage, Jack Mills, Tomasz Cywka and Cameron Edwards (All released)

Pogrebnyak scored six goals in 12 games for Fulham last season.

Key Player: Pavel Pogrebnyak. Reading's capture of the Russian striker ahead of Aston Villa and Fulham - where he spent the last four months on the season on loan and scored six goals in 12 starts - is a real coup. His goals should be enough to secure Reading's Premier League status this season, and signal a real intent by the Royals' Russian owners.

Prediction: Team spirit and wealthy backers if they need it should stand them in good stead. 15th

Southampton

Last season: Back to back promotions was achieved at St Mary's as they finished second in the Championship. The Saints never left the automatic promotion places from beginning to end and were unlucky to miss out on the title to the juggernaut what was Reading. They will now be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Norwich - back to back promotions from League One to the Premier League followed by a comfortable mid table finish. The mastermind behind it was Nigel Adkins. Appointed after the surprise sacking of Alan Pardew in 2010, the former Scunthorpe manager promised promotion and delivered twice. Indeed, the former physio turned manager has achieved four promotions in six seasons. Survival this season will certainly see his stock rise.

Transfers. In: Jay Rodriguez (Undisclosed from Burnley), Steven Davis (Undisclosed from Rangers), Nathaniel Clyne (Undisclosed from Crystal Palace), Paulo Gazzaniga (Undisclosed from Gillingham) 
Out: Dan Harding (Undisclosed to Nottingham Forest), Aaron Martin (Loan to Crystal Palace), Tommy Forecast (Loan to Gillingham), Harlee Dean (Free to Brentford), Lee Holmes (Free to Preston North End), Bartosz Bialkowski (Free to Notts County), Ryan Dobie (Free to Shrewsbury Town), David Connolly (Released), Radhi Jaidi (Retired)

Lallana has racked up nearly 200 appearances for Southampton

Key Player: Adam Lallana. Another exciting player from the Southampton youth academy that produced Theo Walcott and Gareth Bale. The midfielder has played nearly 200 times for the Saints and has been named in back-to-back teams of the year - last season scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists. Generally, if Lallana plays well, Southampton play well.

Prediction: The momentum of back to back promotions should see them survive. 17th

Stoke City

Last season: The Potters embarked on their first jaunt into Europe in 37 years and reached the last 32 of the Europa League before falling to Valencia. Although it was a pleasant experience, it affected their league form as they lost the four league games which succeeded their first four group matches. Long travels to Ukraine, Turkey and Israel weren't ideal either as European football took its toll on a small squad They eventually finished the season 14th, their lowest league position since entering the Premier League. Since being promoted to the top flight in 2008 they have more than held their own, and with the distraction of European football out of the way, Tony Pulis can focus on the bread and butter of the league. As they have in the past four seasons, they should comfortably stave off relegation.

Transfers. In: Geoff Cameron (£2.5m from Houston Dynamo), Michael Kightly (Undisclosed from Wolves), Jamie Ness (Free from Rangers) 
Out: Danny Collins (Undisclosed to Nottingham Forest), Andrew Davies (Free to Bradford City), Jonathan Woodgate (Free to Middlesbrough), Matthew Lund (Loan to Bristol Rovers), Florent Cuvelier (Loan to Walsall), Ryan Brunt (Loan to Leyton Orient), Tom Soares, Ricardo Fuller, Salif Diao, Louis Molt (All released)

Crouch is Stoke's most expensive player.

Key Player: Peter Crouch. Considering he is a club record transfer at £10 million, you would expect the England international to be an important player for the Potters. In his debut season at the Britannia Stadium, Crouch scored 14 times including a world class goal against Manchester City. He also won Stoke's Player of the Year. If he can continue scoring, then a recall back to the Three Lions squad could happen.

Prediction: Without the distraction of European football, they should pick up a few more points and improve on their position from last season. 12th

Sunderland

Last season: After a woeful start which returned just two wins in 14 games, Steve Bruce was dismissed from Wearside. In came Martin O'Neill and rejuvinated the side, winning eight of their next 14. However, things fizzled out at the end of the season, going winless for the final eight games and finishing 13th, showing that their is still work to be done. Their top goalscorer was loanee Nicklas Bendtner with just eight goals, showing that the Black Cats haven't replaced Darren Bent since he left to join Aston Villa 18 months ago, and need someone more prolific if they're to consistently finish in the top half. This is Sunderland's sixth consecutive season in the Premier League and are now established in the top flight. Under O'Neill, they will hope they can go to the next level and challenge for Europe.

Transfers. In: Carlos Cuellar (Free to Aston Villa)
Out: Asamoah Gyan (£6m to Al Ain), Michael Turner (£1.5m to Norwich City), Cristian Riveros (£240,000 to Kayserispor), George McCartney (Free to West Ham United), Michal Liddle (Free to Accrington Stanley), Marcos Angeleri (Free to Estudiantes), Jordan Cook (Free to Charlton Athletic), Trevor Carson (Free to Bury), Craig Gordon and Oumare Tounkara (Both released)

Larsson was Sunderland's joint second top goalscorer last season.

Key Player: Sebastian Larsson. The Swedish international had a good debut season on Wearside, scoring seven goals from midfield, including twice in a 3-3 draw at Manchester City. Most of them goals were from direct free-kicks, and Larsson is quickly getting a reputation as being a master from set pieces. He finished a fine season by scoring for Sweden in their 2-0 win against France at Euro 2012.

Prediction: A top half finish under O'Neill is achievable, but European football will remain out of reach. 9th

Swansea City

Last season: Their passing football surprised many and drew plaudits from all around as the Swans finished 11th in their debut season. The Liberty Stadium also proved to be a difficult place to get points from for visiting sides, losing only four games all season and beating the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool. Manager Brendan Rodgers was promptly taken from Wales and installed as the new Liverpool chief this summer, a big blow to the Swans. Danish legend Michael Laudrup, himself an advocate of passing the ball on the deck, replaced Rodgers and is now faced with task of keeping them up for a second season and trying to keep hold of their star players such as Michel Vorm and Scott Sinclair. One player who has left is midfielder Joe Allen, following Rodgers to Anfield.

Transfers. In: Chico (£2m from Genoa), Michu (£2m from Rayo Vallecano), Jonathan de Guzman (Loan from Villarreal)
Out: Joe Allen (£15m to Liverpool), Ferrie Bodde, Joe Walsh, Casey Thomas, Jordan Smith, Ryan Donnelly (All released)

Graham is a key player for the way Swansea play.

Key Player: Danny Graham. Signed from Watford for £3.5 million after scoring 24 goals in the Championship during 2010/11, Graham scored 12 in the Premier League last season. Not only will his goals be important again this season, but so will his work off the ball, closing down defenders and pressing at a high tempo.

Prediction: Easy on the eye football should continue under Laudrup, as should their Premier League status. 14th

Tottenham Hotspur

Last season: A fourth placed finish was a great achievement. But Chelsea's Champions League heroics meant that Spurs didn't qualify for Europe's premier competition, instead entering the Europa League for the second consecutive season. Not only is it a blow for the club's finances,  but they also run the risk of losing their best players. Luka Modric's future at White Hart Lane is in doubt for a second consecutive summer, with Real Madrid looking a likely destination, while Emmanuel Adebayor looks unlikely to make a permanent move after a successful loan spell last season. The biggest disappointment for Spurs fans this summer was undoubtedly the departure of manager Harry Redknapp. During his four year spell he guided the team to a Champions League quarter final while creating an exciting young team. He was heavily linked with the vacant England managerial post at the start of the year which appeared to affect Spurs' form as they went from serious title challengers to scrapping for a top four finish. Andre Villas-Boas has replaced Redknapp, looking to prove a point after his failed short spell at Chelsea.

Transfers. In: Jan Vertonghen (£9m from Ajax), Gylfi Sigurdsson (£8m from Hoffenheim), Zeki Fryers (Undisclosed from Manchester United). 
Out: Niko Kranjcar (£5.5m to Dynamo Kiev), Vedran Corluka (£5.5m to Lokomotiv Moscow), Steven Pienaar (£4.5m to Everton), Ryan Nelsen (Free to Queens Park Rangers), Ben Alnwick (Free to Barnsley), Massimo Luongo (Loan to Ipswich Town), Ryan Fredericks (Loan to Brentford), Bongani Khumalo (Loan to PAOK Salonika), Simon Dawkins (Loan to San Jose Earthquakes), Oscar Jansson, Louis Saha (Both released), Ledley King (Retired)

Bale was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year last season.

Key Player: Gareth Bale. Just like Spurs' form, Bale had an inconsistent season. He scored nine goals, all of which came before the start of February and picked up the Player of the Month award for January. On his day he is one of the best players in the Premier League, if not the world, as his pace causes nightmares for opposition right backs. If he has a good season, then Spurs should too.

Prediction: Replacing Modric, should he leave, will be hard. Still have enough quality to compete for a Champions League spot but could fall short. 5th

West Bromwich Albion

Last season: After getting the reputation of being a yo-yo club, Roy Hodgson guided the Baggies to two mid table finishes during his 18 months at the Hawthorns. Hodgson did a fine job of steering Albion away from the drop zone in his first six months, finishing in 11th. Particular highlights last season included wins against Chelsea and Liverpool and doing the doube over rivals Wolves as they finished 10th, their highest finish in 30 years. England came calling for Hodgson's services which he duly accepted, leaving Albion to call upon former Chelsea, Liverpool and West Ham assistant Steve Clarke. There is no doubt Clarke is a fine assistant manager, being Mourinho's right hand man while at Stamford Brdige. But this is Clarke's first managerial job and could find the transition from assistant to manager a challenge.


Foster made his move to West Brom permanent this summer.

Transfers. In: Ben Foster (£4m from Birmingham City), Markus Rosenberg (Undisclosed from Werder Bremen), Claudio Yacob (Free from Racing Santander) Yassine El Ghanassy (Loan from Gent), Romelu Lukaku (Loan from Chelsea) 
Out: Simon Cox (Undisclosed to Nottingham Forest),  Keith Andrews (Free to Bolton Wanderers), Joe Mattock (Free to Sheffield Wednesday), Nicky Shorey (Free to Reading), Lateef Elford-Alliyu (Free to Bury), Somen Tchoyi, Paul Downing, Marton Fulop, Paul Scharner (All released)

Key Player: Ben Foster. The former Manchester United goalkeeper played all but one of Albion's games last season, whilst on loan from Birmingham. He kept a total of ten clean sheets and was voted supporters' player and players' player of the year. The move was made permanent this summer for £4 million, and will be a key player for the Baggies. Could also be tempted out of international retirement from former manager Hodgson.

Prediction: The loss of Hodgson could see them become relegation candidates once again. Clarke may face a difficult first job in management. 19th

West Ham United

Last season: The Hammers bounced back from relegation with a playoff final victory over Blackpool, but fans at Upton Park still weren't happy. Sam Allardyce's long ball approach was criticised by fans used to seeing the ball played on the deck in the "West Ham way". Big Sam will point to the fact that they got promoted at the first attempt from what is a very tough league, but a slow start this season will only cause for the groans to become louder. Allardyce has been busy in the transfer market, signing no less than eight players at the time of writing, including former Wigan defender Mohamed Diame on a free transfer. One player who appears not to be joining the Hammers is Andy Carroll, who had been heavily linked with a move this summer.



Noble scored eight times for West Ham last season.

Transfers. In: Stephen Henderson (Undisclosed from Portsmouth), Modibo Maiga (Undisclosed from Sochaux), Raphael Spiegel (Undisclosed from Grasshoppers), James Collins (Undisclosed from Aston Villa), Alou Diarra (Undisclosed from Marseille), Jussi Jaaskelainen (Free from Bolton Wanderers), Mohamed Diame (Free from Wigan Athletic), George McCartney (Free from Sunderland) 
Out: Robert Green (Free to Queens Park Rangers), Abdoulaye Faye (Free to Hull City), Frank Nouble (Free to Wolves), Julien Faubert (Free to Elazigspor), Freddie Sears (Free to Colchester United), Marek Stech (Free to Yeovil Town), Olly Lee (Free to Barnet), Papa Bouba Diop, John Carew and Peter Kurucz (All released)

Key Player: Mark Noble. Another product of the West Ham academy, Noble has played nearly 200 times for the Hammers. Last season Noble scored eight goals and created nine assists and was named in the Championship Team of the Year. Now back in the Premier League, Noble will hope to replicate that form this season.

Prediction: With Allardyce at the helm they should survive. It might not be pretty though. 16th

Wigan Athletic

Last season: Things looked bleak for Wigan for a while last season. A run of eight consecutive defeats in the Autumn left the Latics rooted to the bottom of the table. Things weren't much better by the end of February, with the club well and truly in the middle of yet another relegation dog fight. But once again, manager Roberto Martinez had a plan. A switch to a 3-4-3 formation saw a dramatic turn in performances and results, and not just against the teams around them. Away wins at Liverpool and Arsenal and 1-0 and 4-0 wins against Manchester United and Newcastle respectively steered the team to a 15th place finish and seven points above the relegation zone. Martinez was heavily linked with the vacant managerial posts at Liverpool and Aston Villa but opted to stay at the DW stadium. Some key players have left however, including Hugo Rodallega and Mohamed Diame on free transfers while Victor Moses, arguably Wigan's best player last season, remains a reported target for Chelsea.

Transfers. In: Fraser Fyvie (Undisclosed from Aberdeen), Ivan Ramis (Undisclosed from Real Mallorca), Ryo Miyaichi (Loan from Arsenal) 
Out: Chris Kirkland (Free to Sheffield Wednesday), Mohamed Diame (Free to West Ham United), Hugo Rodallega (Free to Fulham), Hendry Thomas and Steve Gohouri (Both released)

Al-Habsi was the first Omani to play in the Premier League.

Key Player: Ali Al-Habsi. After a successful season on loan from Bolton, Al-Habsi made his move to Wigan permanent last summer. He made some crucial saves in Wigan's fight to stay up, including saving a penalty from Charlie Adam in the 0-0 draw against Liverpool, and kept eight clean sheets. The Omani is one of the best shot stoppers in the Premier League, and will be have to be at his best again this season.

Prediction: With them continuing to sell their best players, surely they can't pull off another great escape? 20th

@mattelliott321

All transfers correct at the time of writing.

Torquay United v Leicester City - Match Preview

Leicester City get their 2012/13 campaign underway on Tuesday night as they travel to Plainmoor to face Torquay United in the first round of the newly branded Capital One Cup.

City have good success in the competition, lifting the trophy on three occasions. While adding a fourth seems unlikely, a good cup run is always a bonus for the fans, players and the clubs finances.

Last season the Foxes were knocked out in the third round after losing to eventual finalists Cardiff City on penalties.

The trip to Devon does pose a potential banana skin, with Torquay finishing 5th in League Two under manager Martin Ling, losing in the playoffs to Cheltenham. The Gulls also only lost three games at home throughout last season.

There have already been some notable casualties in the first round of the Capital One Cup. Blackpool lost to League Two side Morecambe on Sunday, while Wolves and Hull were taken to penalties by other League Two opposition before eventually progressing.

City's first trip to Plainmoor should see a strong line up. Kasper Schmeichel, Wes Morgan and Danny Drinkwater are all expected to start, while Jamie Vardy could also start after impressing in the 1-0 win over Sunderland in the last pre-season fixture on Saturday.

Sean St Ledger, Zak Whitbread and Richie Wellens are all out through injury, while Anthony Knockaert has been called up to the France under 21's and will not feature.

The draw for the second round of the Capital One Cup is on Wednesday and will feature Premier League clubs which aren't competing in Europe this season.

Leicester City v Sunderland - Preview

Leicester City host Sunderland on Saturday in the final pre-season fixture for both sides.

The game at the King Power Stadium against the Premier League visitors will give fans the best indication yet as to who will be in the starting XI against Peterborough when the league campaign starts next week.

The match also sees the return of City legend Martin O'Neill, who returns to Leicester as manager of the Black Cats.

O'Neill spent five years at Filbert Street, where he established City in the Premier League with four consecutive top half finishes and won two League Cups before leaving for Celtic in 2000.

However, there will be no room for sentiment as both O'Neill and City boss Nigel Pearson look to finalise their teams preparation for the new season

Although results aren't the priority during pre-season, the Foxes have had mixed fortunes. A 4-1 win at Hinckley was followed by a 2-0 defeat at League One Shrewsbury. City returned to winning ways as they beat Burton Albion 3-1 at the Pirelli Stadium, before beating Lincoln City 5-0 in a rearranged behind closed doors friendly at the King Power Stadium.

This week, a Leicester City XI largely made up of fringe players and youth prospects played two games. The annual Westerby Cup Winners' Cup match saw a young City side lose 1-0 at Loughborough Dynamo, but a more senior side including the likes of Jermaine Beckford, Neil Danns and Danny Drinkwater overcame Nuneaton 3-1 a day later.

All the senior members of the squad are expected to feature on Saturday as they aim to get more game time under their belts. Sean St. Ledger is definitely out after picking up a knee injury in the win at Burton which will keep him out for six to eight weeks, while new signing Zak Whitbread remains a doubt.

Fellow summer signings Ritchie De Laet, Matt James, Jamie Vardy, Marko Futacs and Anthony Knockaert are all set to make their home debut.

Sunderland, who finished 13th in the Premier League last season, have also had an inconsistent pre-season in terms of results, only winning one game against Dutch side FC Groningen 3-2. On Wednesday, the Black Cats played Derby County at Pride Park and were held to a 1-1 draw.

Seb Larsson, John O'Shea and James McLean are all exptected to feature after recently returning from international duty at Euro 2012, but Phil Bardlsey and Stephane Sessegnon are both doubts.

New signing Carlos Cuellar is also expected to feature as O'Neill's men play their last pre-season game before visiting Arsenal in their first game of the Premier League season on Saturday.

Championship Season Preview 2012/13

Regarded as the toughest league in the world, the Championship will be more competitive than ever this season as 24 clubs compete for promotion to the Premier League. Three quarters of the teams have had Premier League experience, while the likes of Cardiff and Brighton will be hoping to make their debut in the Premier League with promotion this season. All three relegated clubs; Wolves, Blackburn and Bolton, will be looking to bounce back at the first attempt, while coming up from League One; Charlton, Sheffield Wednesday and Huddersfield, will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Norwich and Southampton and achieve back to back promotions. Whatever happens, it's guarenteed to be another exciting season.

Barnsley

Last season: Widely tipped as relegation candidates by many at the start of the season, Keith Hill's first season managing the Tykes got off to a solid start with some impressive results to boot. They did the double over rivals Leeds and also got three points at the likes of Reading and Leicester. However, things nose dived in the second half of the season after the January transfer window, selling striker Ricardo Vas Te to West Ham and seeing loan star Danny Drinkwater sign for Leicester. A season ending injury to key midfielder Jacob Butterfield in December also proved costly. They only won two of their last 18 games, finishing the season 21st. Their bad form could continue into next season, with captain Butterfield joining Norwich.

Transfers: In: Lee Collins (£50,000 from Port Vale), Kelvin Etuhu (Free from Manchester City), Jacob Mellis (Free from Chelsea), Mido (Free from Zamalek), Ben Alnwick (Free from Tottenham Hotspur), Toni Silva Free from Liverpool), Tomasz Cywka (Free from Reading).
Out: David Cotterill (Free to Doncaster Rovers), Jacob Butterfield (Free to Norwich City), James McEveley (Free to Swindon Town), Andy Gray (Free to Leeds United), Nathan Doyle (Free to Barnsley), David Preece, Alastair Taylor (Both released)

Mido has played for 10 clubs in seven different countries.

Key Player: Mido. Eyebrows were raised when it was announced this summer that the Egyptian international had joined Barnsley. The Tykes are his fifth English club, having previously played for Tottenham, Middlesbrough, Wigan and West Ham, and has scored 28 goals on these shores. Question marks are still there about his attitude, although he has said that he is a changed man. There's no doubt that Mido has the ability to score goals in the Championship, and Barnsley will be looking to him to keep their heads above water. The news that he is now out for up to three months with an injury is a bitter blow.

Prediction: Too much pressure lies on Mido's shoulders, and after selling Butterfield, Barnsley could struggle this season. 24th.

Birmingham City

Last season: Off the field, the Blues were in disarray for much of the season as owner Carson Yeung was arrested for money laundering and his assets were frozen. But manager Chris Hughton did wonders with no budget and a young squad as they were unlucky not to qualify from the group stages of the Europa League and managed to finish fourth in the Championship. After a 62 game season they lost to Blackpool in the semi-final, but more worryingly they lost Houghton this summer as he joined Premier League side Norwich. Ex Huddersfield manager Lee Clark has come in and his first task will be to keep hold of last seasons key players Marlon King, Nathan Redmond and Curtis Davies.

Butland: Has a bright future, but is it with Birmingham?

Transfers. In: Darren Ambrose (Undisclosed from Crystal Palace), Peter Lovenkrands (Free from Newcastle United), David Lucas (Free from Rochdale), Hayden Mullins (Free from Portsmouth)  Out: Jordan Mutch (£2m to Cardiff City), Ben Foster (Undisclosed to West Bromwich Albion)


Key Player: Jack Butland. He hasn't played a competitve game for Birmingham, but big things are expected of the 19 year-old goalkeeper. Having had two successful loan spells at Cheltenham Town, he was called up to England's Euro 2012 squad following an injury to John Ruddy, providing backup to Joe Hart and Robert Green. Stuart Peace then called up Butland for the Team GB Olympic team and put in some impressive performances. Several Premier League clubs have been linked with his signature, but first team football with the Blues should keep him at St Andrews for now.

Prediction: Hughton worked wonders with Birmingham, getting them into the playoffs. Clark will do well to repeat that feat. 11th

Blackburn Rovers

Last season: 11 consecutive years in the Premier League came to an end last season as Blackburn finished 19th. Throughout last season there were protests against manager Steve Kean and the owners Venky's, the most memorable being a chicken released on the pitch on the last home game of the season. They've prepared for life back in the Championship by bringing in some high profile names. Strikers Nuno Gomes and Leon Best will add firepower, although the news that Best has been ruled out for six months with a knee injury is a big blow. The most notable signing of the summer is midfielder Danny Murphy, who has joined on a free transfer from Fulham. Both Kean and the owners remain at Ewood Park, but a poor start this season will only increase the pressure which could finally push Kean over the edge.

Transfers. In: Leon Best (£3m from Newcastle United), Dickson Etuhu (£1m from Fulham), Edinho Junior (£500,000 from Olhanense), Fabio Nunes (Undisclosed from Portimonense), Paulo Jorge (Undisclosed from FC Porto B) Danny Murphy (Free from Fulham), Nuno Gomes (Free from Braga). Out: Yakubu (£1m to Guangzhou), Junior Hoilett (Free to Queens Park Rangers), Matthew Pearson (Free to Rochdale), Jackson Ramm (Free to Colchester United), Jordan Slew (Loan to Oldham Athletic), Ryan Edwards (Loan to Rochdale), Michel Salgado, Vince Grella, Zac Ailey, Herold Goulon (All released)

Murphy still has Premier League class.

Key Player: Danny Murphy. His free transfer to Blackburn could be the signing of the summer. His old club Fulham wanted to extend their captain's contract but the two parties couldn't come to an agreement. Blackburn came in and signed the former Liverpool midfielder on a two year contract. Despite being 35 he still has the quality to play in the Premier League, as was proven last season when he created more goalscoring chances than any other player in the top flight. Expect Murphy to be one of the best players in the Championship this season.

Prediction: With Murphy in midfield they have a match winner. If they can keep the bulk of their squad from last season they will be there or thereabouts. 3rd.

Blackpool

Last season: After being relegated from their debut season in the Premier League and selling key players Charlie Adam and DJ Campbell, many expected a season of consolidation on the Lancashire coast. However, the Tangerines were 90 minutes away from returning to the top flight, only to lose 2-1 to West Ham in the Championship playoff final. Ian Holloway's men once again drew many plaudits last season for their attacking football, scoring 79 goals, the third highest in the division. They were helped by veteran striker Kevin Phillips who top scored with 16 league goals. Phillips, who turns 39 this summer, has announced he will retire at the end of this season. What better way than to finish off your career with a promotion?

Transfers. In: Isaiah Osbourne (£250,000 from Hibernian), Jack Caprice (Free from Crystal Palace), Tiago Gomes (Free from Hercules), Scott Robertson (Free from Dundee United)
Out: Keith Southern (£300,000 to Huddersfield Town)

Ince: The 20-year-old scored 10 goals for Blackpool last season.

Key Player: Thomas Ince. After being released by Liverpool last summer without making a senior appearance, the son of ex England international Paul joined Blackpool. His form for the Seasiders was impressive, particularly towards the end of the season as he pushed the side into the playoffs. Despite scoring in the playoff final against West Ham, it wasn't enough as the Hammers tasted Wembley glory. Ince has the potential to play in the Premier League one day. Blackpool fans will be hoping it will be for them.

Prediction: Holloway has a young and talented squad at his disposal. Promotion this season is a real possibility. 2nd

Bolton Wanderers

Last season: A long established Premier League club, not many expected Bolton's 13 year stay in the top flight to come to an end last season. But injuries, bad luck and Fabrice Muamba's on-pitch cardiac arrest lead to a lack of stability on the field which saw them get relegated on a dramatic last day to the season. At the time of writing, the Trotters have kept a lot of their key players despite releasing 13 players at the end of the season and have added midfielder Keith Andrews and defender Matt Mills as well. More importantly they have kept manager Owen Coyle as well. A talented young manager who knows how to get out of this division having won promotion with Burnley, he will almost certainly be linked with Premier League jobs when the 'sacking season' starts. If Bolton can keep Coyle and the bulk of their squad, then their time in the Championship could be a flying visit.

Davies will be a key player for Bolton if they can keep him.

Transfers. In: Matt Mills (Undisclosed from Leicester City), Andy Lonergan (Undisclosed from Leeds United), Keith Andrews (Free from West Bromwich Albion), Joe McKee (Free from Burnley), Benik Afobe (Loan from Arsenal)
Out: Robbie Blake (Free to Doncaster Rovers), Mark Connolly (Free to Crewe Alexandra), Tope Obadeyi (Free to Rio Ave), Rhys Bennett (Free to Rochdale), Jussi Jaaskelainen (Free to West Ham United), Ricardo Gardner, Gretar Steinsson, Ivan Klasnic, Nigel Reo-Coker, Paul Robinson, Sean Davis (All released)

Key Player: Mark Davies. Leicester fans will know of Davies' ability after the midfielder spent two months on loan at the club during the title winning League One campaign. Despite being only 20 at the time, it was evident that Davies had the potential to play at a higher level. Bolton successfully bid £2m from his parent club Wolves for his services in January 2009, but his time at the Reebok Stadium has been hampered by injuries. He was one of Bolton's better players last season and is reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool.

Prediction: Impressive summer signings have been added to a squad with lots of Premier League experience. Should bounce back at the first attempt. 1st.

Brighton and Hove Albion

Last season: Brighton marked their first season back in the Championship and first in their new Amex stadium with a top half finish. However, had they been more consistent they could easily have secured a playoff place. They started off the season in terrific form, winning five of their first six games. But nine games without a win saw them playing catch up for the rest of the season. A great start to 2012 saw them lose just one match from 16 and were mounting a serious playoff charge but they didn't win their last eight games of the season, meaning they finished 10th. Gus Poyet's aim this season will be the playoffs and more consistency. The loan signing of Wayne Bridge from Manchester City shows they are serious about a first season in the Premier League.

Greer: Been a rock for Brighton

Transfers. In: Andrew Crofts (Undisclosed from Norwich City) Tomasz Kuszczak (Free from Manchester United), Bruno (Free from Valencia), Wayne Bridge (Loan from Manchester City)
Out: Michael Poke (Free to Torquay United), Alan Navarro (Free to Swindon Town), Grant Hall (Free to Tottenham Hotspur), Jake Forster-Caskey (Loan to Oxford United), Yaser Kasim (Loan to Luton Town), David Gonzalez (Released)

Key Player: Gordon Greer. The club captain has been a key player for the past two seasons, making 74 appearances. Signed from Swindon Town, he helped Brighton to the League One title in his first season. He then put in some fine performances last season in the Championship whilst being a near ever-present, earning the praise of manager Gus Poyet. Now 31, Greer will be desperate for a crack at the Premier League.

Prediction: Will be pushing for the playoffs, but may just fall short for another season. 8th

Bristol City

Last season: A poor start to the season saw manager Keith Millen lose his job in October. With the club bottom of the league and with just one win, Bristol City appointed Derek McInnes. His impact was instantaneous, winning four of their next six games. After selling star striker Nicky Maynard to West Ham their form dipped. But they ended the season on an eight match unbeaten run, finishing the season in 20th, to give City fans hope of a more comfortable season ahead. Experienced goalkeeper David James has since left, along with seven other players who have been released as manager McInnes begins his rebuilding job to turn the Robins from relegation candidates to a steady second tier club once again.

Transfers: In: Greg Cunningham (Undisclosed from Manchester City), Jody Morris (Free from St Johnstone), Paul Anderson (Free from Nottingham Forest), Tom Heaton (Free from Cardiff City)  Out: Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Free to Notts County), Jamie McAllister (Free to Yeovil Town), Marlon Jackson (Free to Hereford United), David Clarkson, David James, Christian Ribeiro (All released)

Adomah is a Ghanaian international

Key Player: Albert Adomah. The Ghanaian international signed from League Two Barnet in 2010 and has been one of the Robins' more consistent performers over the past two seasons. Able to play on either wing or up front, Adomah featured in all but two of City's league games last season, scoring five goals. This summer he has been linked with a £3m move to Swansea, and it will be a big blow for Bristol City if they do lose him.

Prediction: Still need a prolific striker who will replace the goals of Maynard. Face another season of struggle. 22nd

Burnley

Last season: Eddie Howe's first full season at Burnley was one of transition as he got rid of more experienced players in favour of youth -  his oldest outfield player was vice-captain Dean Marney at 28. It was a steady season as well, finishing the season 13th, never in danger of relegation while not flirting with the playoffs either. The biggest highlight was the form of their two strikers Charlie Austin and Jay Rodriguez. Austin was Burnley's top scorer in the league, while local boy Rodriguez scored 21 in all competitions. That lead to Premier League new boys Southampton paying for his services, a big blow for the Clarets. They've already spent some of that money, paying Derby £1.1 million for defender Jason Shackell.

Transfers. In: Jason Shackell (£1.1m from Derby County), Luke O'Neill (Undisclosed from Mansfield Town), George Porter (Undisclosed from Leyton Orient), Sam Vokes (Undisclosed from Wolves), Joseph Mills (Loan from Reading)
Out: Jay Rodriguez (Undisclosed to Southampton), Andre Amougou, Clarke Carlisle, Brian Easton, Zavon Hines (All released)

Austin was Burnley's top goalscorer in the league last season.

Key Player: Charlie Austin. After scoring a bagful of goals for several non-league clubs, Austin earned a move to Swindon Town in 2009. 18 months at the County Ground saw him score 31 goals and a move to Burnley materialised in January 2011. Many thought he would struggle in the Championship but he scored 16 goals last season, including a second half hat-trick against Portsmouth after coming off the bench. With the loss of Rodriguez, the Clarets will be looking at Austin to carry on his goalscoring feats.

Prediction: The goals of Jay Rodriguez will be hard to replace. Another steady mid table finish for Eddie Howe's young side. 15th.

Cardiff City

Last season: Little did they know it at the time, but last season was a historic one for Cardiff City. Not because they reached their first League Cup final, losing to Liverpool in an epic encounter, or because they lost to West Ham United in the playoff semi finals. It was because it would prove to be the last time they played at home in blue shirts, ending a 104 year tradition. The "re-branding" process under their Malaysian owners means they will now play in red shirts and black shorts, while the clubs badge has also changed, now featuring a red dragon. Understandably, many fans are upset with the off field decisions, but on the pitch things look strong, bringing in five players. Could this be the year that finally see Cardiff promoted to the Premier League?

Whittingham is a consistent performer in the Championship.

Transfers. In: Kim Bo-Kyung (£2.4m from Cerezo Osaka), Jordan Mutch (£2m from Birmingham City), Etien Velikonja (£1.5m from Maribor), Filip Kiss (£500,000 from Slovan Bratislava), Joe Lewis (Free from Peterorough United), Heidar Helguson (Free from Queens Park Rangers) 
Out: Kenny Miller (£500,000 to Vancouver Whitecaps), Anthony Gerrard (£350,000 to Huddersfield Town) John Parkin (Free to Fleetwood Town), Aaron Wildig (Free to Shrewsbury Town), Paul Quinn (Free to Doncaster Rovers), Tom Heaton (Free to Bristol City), Alex Evans, Lee Naylor, (Both released)

Key Player: Peter Whittingham. The midfielder is one of the best players in the Championship. Last season alone he was voted Cardiff's Player of the Year and was selected in the Championship Team of the Year. He also scored 13 goals and provided seven assists. His form over the past few seasons has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, most recently Fulham having a £2.5m bid rejected this summer. His loyalty to Cardiff will please boss Malky Mackay, but this could be his last season in the Championship if he continues with impressive displays.

Prediction: Once again, Cardiff will be in and around the playoffs. Whether they can go that one step further is another matter. 6th.

Charlton Athletic

Last season: The Addicks dominated League One from start to finish on their way to winning the title, losing only five games and getting 101 points. Chris Powell's men only lost two of their first 34 games, meaning promotion was never an issue. A mini blip in March was overcame as they got promoted with a 1-0 win at Carlisle with three games left to play. Now they're back in the Championship after a three year absence, they'll be hoping to follow in the footsteps Southampton and Norwich who have gone on to secure back to back promotions and return to the Premier League. Who's to say Charlton can't do the same?

Wright-Phillips is back playing in the Championship

Transfers. In: Lawrie Wilson (£550,000 from Stevenage), Jordan Cook (Free from Sunderland), Salim Kerkar (Free to Rangers)
Out: Freddie Warren (Free to Barnet), Gary Doherty (Free to Wycombe Wanderers), Connor Gough (Free to Bristol Rovers), Mikel Alonson, Jason Euell (Both released)

Key Player: Bradley Wright-Phillips. After being released by Manchester City, Wright-Phillips failed to live up to the hype generated at Southampton. The Addicks signed the striker from Plymouth in January 2011 and got off to a fine start, scoring on his debut. His first full season saw him score 22 goals to help fire Charlton back into the Championship. Charlton fans sing that he is better than Shaun, his brother, and BWP has the ability to play at the same level. He will again be key for another promotion push this season.

Prediction: Have the momentum, the players and the manager to achieve back to back promotions. 5th

Crystal Palace

Last season: After staving off relegation for the past two seasons, the 2011/12 season was rather comfortable for Palace fans. Although they finished 17th, they were in the top half for most of the season and had they not gone the last nine games of the season winless would have finished their. Dougie Freedman's men also reached the semi-finals of the Carling Cup and were unfortunate not to reach Wembley, losing on a penalty shootout. A relegation dog fight may beckon again this season however after selling four key players. Academy products Sean Scannell and Nathaniel Clyne have joined Huddersfield and Southampton respectively, while Anthony Gardner has joined Sheffield Wednesday. A bigger loss will be midfielder Darren Ambrose, the club's top scorer for two of the past three seasons.

Transfers. In: Joel Ward (£400,000 from Portsmouth), Aaron Wilbraham (Free from Norwich City), Peter Ramage (Free from Queens Park Rangers), Aaron Martin (Loan from Southampton) 
Out: Sean Scannell (£1m to Huddersfield Town), Darren Ambrose (Undisclosed to Birmingham City), Lee Hills (Free to Stevenage), Nathaniel Clyne (Free to Southampton), Jake Caprice (Free to Blackpool), Anthony Gardner (Free to Sheffield Wednesday), Nathaniel Pinney, Charlie Holness, Calvin Andrew (All released)

Zaha: 2011/12 Football League Young Player of the Year.

Key Player: Wilfried Zaha. He may only be 19, but the winger has already made 81 appearances for Palace. A product of the club's academy, last season he was voted the Football League Young Player of the Year and the fifth best player in the Football League. He has the ability to play at the highest level, proven by the fact that he has been linked with moves to Liverpool, Sunderland and Newcastle amongst others in the past couple of seasons.

Prediction: Seeing a lot of key players leave will see them fall from last season's 17th place finish. Still have enough to stay up. 20th

Derby County

Last season: Derby had been flirting with relegation from the Championship for the past few seasons, so a 12th placed finish will be seen as a step in the right direction for by Nigel Clough. After a fine start which saw them climb as high as second, they only won one of their next 12 games to fall back into mid-table where they stayed for the rest of the season. Injuries were a big problem for the Rams, most notably losing club captain Shaun Barker for 16 months, meaning he will miss the whole of this season as well. Several youngsters were thrown into the starting XI, with Mason Bennett becoming the club's youngest ever senior player at 15 years and 99 days old.

Transfers. In: Richard Keogh (£1m from Coventry City), Paul Coutts (£150,000 from Preston North End), Michael Jacobs (Undisclosed from Northampton Town), James O'Connor (Undisclosed from Doncaster Rovers)
Out: Jason Shackell (£1m to Burnley), Chris Maguire (Undisclosed to Sheffield Wednesday), Miles Addison (Undisclosed to Bournemouth), Paul Green (Free to Leeds United), Callum Ball (Loan to Coventry City), Lee Croft (Loan to Oldham Athletic), Ross Atkins (Loan to Burton Albion) James Severn, Ryan Connolly (Both released)

Fielding: A safe pair of hands in goal for Derby.

Key Player: Frank Fielding. After loan spells at several Football League clubs, including Derby, goalkeeper Fielding was sold to the Rams for £400,000 last summer from Blackburn. It's no coincidence that Derby's highest league finish since returning to the Championship coincided with Fielding's consistent performances in goal. He kept 12 clean sheets in the 47 games he playes last season, and will be hoping to better that this season.

Prediction: Losing captain and last season's star player Shackell is a blow. Another mid table finish for the Rams. 17th

Huddersfield Town

Last season: The Terriers broke a Football League record in November, going 43 consecutive games unbeaten across the past two seasons. That was why it was a surprise when manager Lee Clark was sacked in February with the club in fourth. In came former Leeds manager Simon Grayson and kept them in the playoffs until the end of the season. After beating Milton Keynes Dons in the semi final they faced Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United at Wembley. The teams couldn't be seperated after 120 minutes and after an epic penalty shootout which saw all 22 players take a spot-kick, it was Huddersfield that won promotion.

Transfers. In: Anthony Gerrard (£350,000 from Cardiff City), Keith Southern (£300,000 from Blackpool), Sean Scannell (Undisclosed from Crystal Palace), Oliver Norwood (Undisclosed from Manchester United), Adam Clayton (Undisclosed from Leeds United), Paul Dixon (Free from Dundee United), Joel Lynch (Free from Nottingham Forest)
Out: Gary Roberts (Free to Swindon Town), Danny Cadamarteri (Free to Carlisle United), Tommy Miller (Free to Swindon Town), Nathan Clarke (Free to Leyton Orient), Gary Naysmith (Free to Aberdeen), Aidan Chippendale (Free to Accrington Stanley), Greg Pearson, Simon Thomas (Both released)

Rhodes broke the Huddersfield record of most goals in a season.

Key Player: Jordan Rhodes. The Scottish international was head and shoulders above everyone else in League One last season, scoring 40 goals in 45 appearances. He scored back to back hat-tricks in October against Preston and Exeter and then scored all four goals in a 4-4 draw at Sheffield Wednesday. He went one better in January, scoring five goals against Wycombe. Unsurprisingly, he won the club's Player of the Year award last season and has been linked with a move away from the Terriers.

Prediction: With Rhodes in the side, scoring goals won't be a problem. Defence might need improving if they are to reach the playoffs. 7th

Hull City

Last season: A lack of stability off the field arguably cost Hull a playoff place last season. Manager Nigel Pearson left the club to rejoin Leicester City, with player Nick Barmby taking the reigns on a caretaker basis. A good run of results led to Barmby giving up his playing duties and becoming manager permanently. They looked a good bet for the playoffs, but five defeats in a row at the end of March saw them slip up, finishing seven points behind in eigth. Barmby was then sacked after publically criticising the owners. In came proven top flight manager Steve Bruce, who will be hoping to return to the Premier League as soon as possible.

Transfers. In: Nick Proschwitz (£2.6m from SC Paderborn), Eldin Jakupovic (Free from Aris), Abdoulaye Faye (Free from West Ham United), Sone Aluko (Free from Rangers), Alex Bruce (Free from Leeds United), Ben Amos (Loan from Manchester United)
Out: Kevin Kilbane (Free to Coventry City), Will Atkinson (Free to Bradford City), Rob Peet (Free to Hinckley United), Dele Adebola (Free to Rochdale), James Harper (Free to Hungerford Town), Sonny Bradley (Loan to Aldershot Town), Mark Cullen (Loan to Bury), Richard Garcia, Gavin Holohan (Both released), Adriano Basso (Retired)

Fryatt has scored 25 times since joining Hull.

Key Player: Matty Fryatt. The Hull striker doesn't need much of an introduction to Leicester fans. Since leaving the King Power stadium to join the Tigers, he has scored 25 times in 68 appearances and was the club's top goalscorer last season with 16 goals, including a hat-trick against Barnsley. Now 26, Fryatt is coming towards the peak of his career and will be looking to have a crack at the Premier League some time soon.

Prediction: Like last season, they'll be around the playoffs come the end of the season, but could fall short once again. 9th.

Ipswich Town

Last season: Paul Jewell can consider himself lucky to still be manager of Ipswich Town. A run of 7 defeats from the end of October to the start of December would have seen many managers given the sack. The rot stopped in a remarkable fashion. 3-0 down at half time at Barnsley, the Tractor Boys turned the game around and won 5-3. Jewell kept his job and guided the club away from the relegation zone and into mid table safety, finishing the season 15th. This season is Ipswich's 11th consecutive season in the Championship and Jewell will be looking at the big names in the squad like Michael Chopra, Jimmy Bullard and Jason Scotland to finally get them out of the division

Transfers. In: Scott Loach (Undisclosed from Watford), Elliott Hewitt (Undisclosed from Macclesfield Town), Luke Chambers (Free from Nottingham Forest), Massimo Luongo (Loan from Tottenham Hotspur)
Out: Grant Leadbitter (Free to Middlesbrough), Richard Wright (Free to Preston North End), Lee Bowyer, Ibrahima Sonko (Both released), Mark Kennedy (Retired)

Chopra: Always a threat in the Championship.

Key Player: Michael Chopra. He marked his first season at Ipswich with 14 goals, but off the field he experienced some major issues. Chopra was checked into a sporting clinic after gambling issues and Ipswich had to give Chopra £250,000 to resolve his gambling debts. In December 2011 he was banned from driving for six months, while he escaped a ban from the club after turning up to a training session an hour late after a drinking session with midfielder Bullard. If he can put his troubles behind him, he can once again become one of the most feared strikers in the Championship.

Prediction: A lot depends on how the big names play. Another inconsistent season beckons for the Tractor Boys. 18th.

Leeds United

Last season: Leeds were in contention for a playoff place until Simon Grayson was surprisingly sacked as manager in February with the club 10th in the league. Fellow Yorkshireman Neil Warnock replaced Grayson and was unable to maintain the playoff push, ultimately finishing 14th. One reason for the mid table finish was Leeds' poor home record, losing a club record 11 games at Elland Road. Warnock has been quick to rebuild the squad, releasing five players and selling another two while bringing in proven Championship players including goalkeeper Paddy Kenny. However, the loss of captain Robert Snodgrass to Norwich, scorer of 13 goals and assisting a further 15, is a huge blow.

Transfers. In: Lee Peltier (£600,000 from Leicester City), Paddy Kenny (£500,000 from Queens Park Rangers), Jason Pearce (£500,000 from Portsmouth), Luke Varney (£300,000 from Portsmouth), Rodolph Austin (£300,000 from Brann) Adam Drury (Free from Norwich City), Paul Green (Free from Derby County), Andy Gray (Free from Barnsley), Jamie Ashdown and David Norris (Free from Portsmouth)
Out: Robert Snodgrass (£3m to NorwichCity), Adam Clayton (£500,000 to Huddersfield Town), Andy Lonergan (Undisclosed to Bolton Wanderers), Maik Taylor (Free to Millwall), Alex Bruce (Free to Hull City), Andrew O'Brien (Free to Vancouver Whitecaps), Lloyd Sam, Mikael Forssell, Danny Webber (All released)

McCormack was Leeds' top goalscorer last season.

Key Player: Ross McCormack. He broke a Leeds record last season, becoming the first Leeds United player to score in six consecutive games, doing so across September and October as Leeds pushed for the playoffs. He was linked with a move to Wolves and Blackburn during the January transfer window but he stayed at Elland Road and went on to score 19 goals in all competitions last season, the club's top goalscorer.

Prediction: Snodgrass' departure will be felt. If they had kept him, they could've been around the playoffs. Instead, another mid table season awaits. 13th.

Leicester City

Last season: The Foxes started last season as favourites for promotion after spending nearly £15 million on players. However, manager Sven Goran-Eriksson was sacked in October following a 3-0 home defeat to Millwall, despite being a few points outside the playoffs. Nigel Pearson returned for a second spell as manager but was unable to mount a serious charge for the playoffs, finishing 9th. Inconsistency was the buzzword for much of the season, not recording back to back wins until the beginning of March. That will have to change if the Thai owners want Premier League football sooner rather than later.

Transfers. In: Ritchie De Laet and Matt James (Undisclosed from Manchester United), Jamie Vardy (Undisclosed from Fleetwood Town), Anthony Knockaert (Undisclosed from Guingamp) Marko Futacs (Free from Portsmouth), Zak Whitbread (Free from Norwich City) 
Out: Lee Peltier (£600,000 to Leeds United), Matt Mills (Undisclosed to Bolton Wanderers), Sol Bamba (Undisclosed to Trabzonspor), Steve Howard (Free to Hartlepool United), Chris Weale (Free to Shrewsbury Town) Matt Oakley (Free to Exeter City), Franck Moussa, John Pantsil, Darius Vassell, Elliott Chamberlain and Aleksander Tunchev (All released)

Schmeichel: A fans favourite at the King Power stadium.

Key Player: Kasper Schmeichel. Son of Danish legend Peter, the goalkeeper was one of Leicester's more consistent performers last season. He quickly became a fans favourite with his acrobatic saves and passion. Midway through last season, Schmeichel was linked with a move to Tottenham but nothing materialised. He went on to make 52 appearances for City last season, keeping 17 clean sheets and saving four penalties, before being called up to the Denmark squad for Euro 2012.

Prediction: Still have one of the best squads in the Championship. Consistency problems should also be resolved this season. 4th

Middlesbrough

Last season: Boro got off to a fine start to the 2011/12 season, going the first 11 games unbeaten. Indeed, throughout the season they were always challenging for a playoff spot which went down to the final day of the season before losing to Watford which saw Cardiff take the final place. It was a poor run of form in March and April though, eight games without a win, which ultimately cost them a top six finish. Tony Mowbray had a young side last season, with the likes of Joe Bennett and Rhys Williams particulalry impressing. With them now having another season under their belt, a playoff spot this season is certainly not out of the question.

Emnes enjoyed his best season at Boro during 2011/12

Transfers. In: George Friend (Undisclosed from Doncaster Rovers), Mustapha Carayol (Undisclosed from Bristol Rovers), Grant Leadbitter (Free from Ipswich Town), Stuart Parnaby (Free from Birmingham City), Jonathan Woodgate (Free from Stoke City), Emmanuel Ledesma (Free from Walsall) Out: Barry Robson (Free to Vancouver Whitecaps), Jonathan Franks (Free to Hartlepool United), Jonathan Grounds (Free to Oldham Athletic), Tony McMahon (Free to Sheffield United), Danny Coyne, Matthew Bates, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Malaury Martin (All released)

Key Player: Marvin Emnes. The Dutchman hadn't made much of an impact at the Riverside before last season. Seven goals in the first seven games of the 2011/12 season saw Emnes win the Championship Player of the Month for August. Emnes went on to become the club's top goalscorer with 14 goals and at only 24, has the potential to be Boro's 20+ goalscorer required for promotion this season.

Prediction: Could just fall short of the playoffs once again. 9th

Millwall

Last season: The Lions spent much of last season flirting with relegation and it wasn't until the final month of the season where they moved to safety, winning five of their last six games and finishing the season 16th. The New Den wasn't the fortress that it usually is either, winning seven of their 23 home games, the lowest point losing 6-0 against Birmingham. Manager Kenny Jackett is the longest serving manager in the Championship, with this season being his sixth as Millwall manager. With the club having one of, if not the smallest budget in the Championship, survival again this season will be a success.

Transfers. In: Scott Malone (Undisclosed from Bournemouth), Maik Taylor (Free from Leeds United), Chris Taylor (Free from Oldham Athletic), Karleigh Osborne (Free from Brentford)
Out: Josh McQuoid (Undisclosed to Bournemouth), Tony Craig (Free to Brentford), Hamer Bouazza (Free to Omonia Nicosia), Jordan Stewart, Chris Hackett (Both released)

Henderson scored three hat-tricks last season.

Key Player: Darius Henderson. The former Watford striker was bought from Sheffield United with the task of trying to replace the goals of Steve Morison. Henderson managed it by scoring 15 goals, including hat-tricks against Leicester, Barnsley and Dagenham & Redbridge in the FA Cup. Once again, his goals will be important this season to keep Millwall in the Championship.

Prediction: Will face another relegation fight but their fighting spirit should keep them up. 21st

Nottingham Forest

Last season: Promotion was the aim for Forest last season as former England manager Steve McLaren took over from Billy Davies, but two wins from the first ten games saw McLaren sacked after 112 days. Steve Cotterill took over but form didn't improve as Forest fought in a relegation battle. Cotterill kept the club in the division, finishing 19th, but was sacked this summer as new Kuwaiti owners came in. The Al-Hassawi family appointed Sean O'Driscoll, despite previously saying they wanted an "iconic" name. Promotion will again be the goal this season, but O'Driscoll has a lot of rebuilding to do in a short space of time after seeing five key players leave the club.

McGugan is Forest's longest serving player.

Transfers. In: Adlene Guedioura (£1m from Wolves),  Danny Collins (Undisclosed from Stoke City), Greg Halford (Undisclosed from Portsmouth), Dan Harding (Undisclosed from Southampton), Simon Gillett (Free from Doncaster Rovers) 
Out: Chris Gunter (£2.3m to Reading), Gareth McCleary (Free to Reading), Luke Chambers (Free to Ipswich Town), Joel Lynch (Free to Huddersfield Town), Paul Anderson (Free to Bristol City), George Boateng (Released)

Key Player: Lewis McGugan. A product of the Forest youth academy, McGugan has played 172 times since making hs debut in 2006 and is the club's longest serving player. He made 35 appearances last term, but his form wasn't as good as it had been in the previous seasons as Forest fought a relegation battle. He has scored some cracking goals, and Forest fans will be hoping he can find his form again under new manager O'Driscoll.

Prediction: A lot depends on how Forest start and how much time the new owners give O'Driscoll. New signings may struggle to gel quickly. 16th

Peterborough United

Last season: Survival would have been deemed a success at London Road last season as Peterborough returned to the Championship, especially after selling star striker Craig Mackail-Smith last summer. Posh spent the first half of the season in the top half of the table, picking up some impressive scalps along the way. They thrashed Ipswich 7-1 in August, while later on in the season they beat an in-form Reading 3-1, ending the Royals' ten match unbeaten run Form dropped slightly at the end of the season, eventually finishing 18th. Goals weren't in short supply, scoring 67, but they were just as common at the other end, conceding 77. Darren Ferguson will hope that Posh don't suffer from second season syndrome.

Transfers. In: Tyrone Barnett (£1.2m from Crawley Town), Robert Olejnik (£300,000 from Torquay United), Nathaniel Mendez-Laing (£100,000 from Wolves), Shaun Brisley (Undisclosed from Macclesfield Town), Michael Bostwick (Undisclosed from Stevenage), Nat Knight-Percival (Free from Wrexham), Danny Swanson (Free from Dundee United), Jonson Clarke-Harris (Free from Coventry City) 
Out: David Ball (Undisclosed to Fleetwood Town), Joe Lewis (Free to Cardiff City), Paul Jones (Free to Crawley Town)

Taylor is on the transfer list at London Road.

Key Player: Paul Taylor. The Merseyside born striker spent time in the non-league and in Belgium before signing for Posh in February 2011. He scored his first goal at the start of this season against Millwall and went on to score 12 time to help Peterborough secure Championship safety. Taylor rejected a four year contract in April and is now on the transfer list (along with George Boyd, Nicky Ajose, Grant McCann and Mark Little) attracting interest from numerous Championship clubs.

Prediction: If the transfer listed trio of Taylor, Boyd and McCann leave then they will certainly struggle. 23rd.

Sheffield Wednesday

Last season: Milan Mandaric's decision to sack Gary Megson at the end of February with the club third in League One was greeted with shock, but it proved to be an inspired decision. Former Cardiff City manager Dave Jones took over and the club went on a 13 match unbeaten run, winning ten of them, to pip city rivals Sheffield United to the final automatic promotion spot. The club's size and history means they'll be looking for a return to the Premier League for the first time since 2000. With Mandaric's financial backing and Jones' managerial experience in the Championship, this season is the best chance they've had for a while.

Transfers. In: Michail Antonio (Undisclosed from Reading), Chris Maguire (Undisclosed from Derby County), Chris Kirkland (Free from Wigan Athletic), Kieran Lee (Free from Oldham Athletic), Joe Mattock (Free from West Bromwich Albion), Anthony Gardner (Free from Crystal Palace), Diago Amado (Free from Uniao Leiria), Nejc Pecnik (Free from Nacional), Rhys McCabe (Free from Rangers) 
Out: Ryan Lowe (Undisclosed to Milton Keynes Dons), Richard O'Donnell (Free to Chesterfield), Rob Jones (Free to Doncaster Rovers), Clinton Morrison (Free to Colchester United), Jon Otsemobor (Free to MK Dons), Vadaine Oliver (Free to Lincoln City), Sean Cuff, Chris Sedgwick, Matthew Tumilty, Scott Canham, Tom Rowbotham, Lee Wall (All released)

Semedo was an ever-present for Wednesday last season.

Key Player: Jose Semedo. The Portuguese midfielder played every game for Wednesday after signing from Charlton and was a key player in the club's promotion campaign. He won the Player of the Year award for 2011/12 and did so the year before at Charlton as well. Semedo also collected the PFA Fans' Player of The Year award. Now back in the Championship, Semedo will once again be a big player for Wednesday.

Prediction: A mid table finish will be a good finish. Expect them to build on that next season. 14th

Watford

Last season: Sean Dyche's managerial debut got off to a solid start as the club finished 11th, despite limited resources and selling key players. Last summer the Hornets sold attacking trio Danny Graham, Don Cowie and Will Buckley, while in January, top goalscorer Marvin Sordell joined Bolton Wanderers. Despite a more than respectable finish, Dyche was sacked this summer as the club were taken over by Udinese and Grenada owner Giampaolo Pozzo, replaced by Gianfranco Zola.

Eustace has made over 150 appearances for Watford.

Another two key players have left this summer - goalkeeper Scott Loach joining Ipswich, while last season's player of the season Adrian Mariappa moved to Reading. Zola has brought in seven players so far, including goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, defender Fitz Hall and five loan players from Udinese or Grenada, but he will do well to better Dyche's final league position this season.

Transfers. In: Manuel Almunia (Free from Arsenal), Fitz Hall (Free from Queens Park Rangers), Almen Abdi, Steve Leo Beleck, Matej Vydra (All loan from Udinese), Ikechi Anya, Daniel Pudil (Both loan from Grenada) 
Out: Adrian Mariappa (Undisclosed to Reading), Scott Loach (Undisclosed to Ipswich Town), David Mirfin, Josh Walker (Both free to Scunthorpe United), Rene Gilmartin (Free to Plymouth Argyle),

Key Player: John Eustace. The midfielder and club captain has plenty of Championship experience, playing most of his career in the second tier for Coventry, Stoke and Watford. Now 32, Eustace was an important player as the Hornets kept their Championship status, playing 39 league games and chipping in with four goals. His experience will be vital for what is a relatively young squad.

Prediction: New signings and new owners are a bit of an unknown entity. Could be quick to pull the trigger if Zola gets off to a slow start. 19th

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Last season: The decision to sack Mick McCarthy in February was seen by some as the wrong decision. The appointment of his assistant manager Terry Connor to try and keep the club in the Premier League was viewed by all as baffling. Connor didn't win any of his 13 games in charge as the club returned to the Championship. Unsurprisingly, Connor wasn't given the job on a permanent basis, instead appointing Norwegian Stale Solbakken. At the time of writing, Wolves have managed to keep hold of all their key players, although the likes of Steven Fletcher and Matt Jarvis are likely to leave.

Transfers. In: Bjorn Bergmann Sigurdarson (£2.4m from Lillestrom), Jamie Tank (Undisclosed from Walsall), Frank Nouble (Free from West Ham United), Tongo Doumbia (Loan from Rennes), Slawomir Peszko (Loan from Cologne) 
Out: Michael Kightly (Undisclosed to Stoke City), Sam Vokes (Undisclosed to Burnley), Adlene Guedioura (Undisclosed to Nottingham Forest), Nathaniel Mendez-Laing (Undisclosed to Peterborough United), Louis Harris (Free to AFC Wimbledon), Leigh Griffiths (Loan to Hibernian), Jake Cassidy (Loan to Tranmere Rovers), Johnny Gorman (Loan to Plymouth Argyle) James Spray, Ashley Hemmings (Both released)

Hennessey won the Wolves Fans' Player of the Season Award for 2011/12

Key Player: Wayne Hennessey. The Welsh international goalkeeper is out injured until the autumn with a torn cruciate ligament, meaning he will stay at Molineux until at least January when a move back to the Premier League could materalise.. Once he does return, he will be a welcome return in goal. Despite conceding over 70 goals in the Premier League, he was still a star performer, winning the Fans' Player of the Season Award.

Prediction: New manager has no Championship experience which could see him slip up. Season of stability is needed at Molineux. 12th

*All transfers correct at the time of writing.

@mattelliott321