Championship Musings

The season is already underway after Nottingham Forest opened their account with a win over Millwall and Sunderland and Derby played out a draw at the Stadium of Light. We've still got time to get stuck into a couple of quick antepost fancies ahead of the rest kicking off at 3pm today.

Aston Villa and Fulham have been all the rage during the close season, but there are enough to doubt their short prices to avoid backing them in our antepost portfolio this season.

Villa of course have signed up John Terry, who could have played a huge roll for anyone outside the Top 6 or 7 in the Premier League, and on his day will be a tremendous acquisition. However, pace could find him out on occasions and he may also face a challenge to stay fit during a long tough Championship campaign. Similar comments probably apply to Christophe Samba, while Glenn Whelan is a decent signing, but at 33 isn't the youngest addition. At the other end, Villa also look light on the goalscorer front, without a proven marksman.

Fulham finished the second part of last season as the form side, but Will Hughes will be a big loss after moving to Derby, and it's hard to justify them being as short as 9/1.

We prefer Middlesbrough at 13/2 - they might be favourites, but there is a lot to like about them after a super summer of business. The bulk of the squad has remained in tact with the core unchanged from the side that were promoted in 2015/16. Jordan Rhodes has left who would have provided a great impact, but his loss has been filled with Britt Assombalonga. While there may be some doubts about his ability to stay fit for a season, when he plays, goals will follow. Jonny Howson, Darren Randolph and Ashley Fletcher are all great additions as well and Boro look stronger than ever.

Also in with a chance at the sharper end of the division are Sheffield Wednesday. Carlos Carvalhal has been backed with cash at the club, and has been building a great project at Hillsborough. With play-off finishes in the past two seasons, and the addition of Jordan Rhodes on a permanent deal, plus George Boyd another proven performer at this level, they look well prepared for another pitch at promotion. 7/2 is available on promotion, but we prefer to avoid the lottery of the play-offs and back them to simply "Make the Play Offs" at 5/2 with Betfred.

Middlesborough to win the Championship at 13/2

Sheffield Wednesday to make the play offs at 5/2

#Football