Huddersfield Town FC News, Match Reports, Forums and more

On the day the Championship 2012/13 season starts (well the day after) we have conducted our own league preview and have asked fans of clubs for their views on their respective team and their predictions for the new season. The following clubs replied to our questions: Barnsley, Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, Bolton Wanderers, Brighton and Hove Albion, Bristol City, Burnley, Cardiff, Charlton, Crystal Palace, Huddersfield Town, Hull City, Leeds United, Middlesbrough, Millwall, Nottingham Forest, Peterborough United, Sheffield Wednesday, Watford and Wolves.

We didn't get a reply from any Derby County fans as of yet.and Its that long we have to do it in sections

I apologise for the lateness I was hoping to run it yesterday but I didn't realise how ling it would take me to do!

Barnsley

Last Season Stats - Finished 21st - Top scorer - Craig Davies (11).

Barnsley were tipped to go down last season but they beat the pundits and finished 21st, 8 points clear of the drop zone. A good run near Christmas say talk of a possible play-off push but the sale of the on-fire Ricardo Vaz Te to West Ham lead to a slip down the league and into a relegation fight. Losing Jacob Butterfield to Norwich is a big blow for Barnsley but Keith Hill moves quickly to bring in former Chelsea youngster Jacob Mellis on a free transfer. Also signed this summer was the former Ajax and Tottenham striker Mido but the Barnsley fans will now have to wait for 3 months or more to see the striker play in a Barnsley shirt has the Egyptian picked up a serious knee injury in pre-season. Winger Kelvin Etuhu arrived on a free from Portsmouth along with goalkeeper Ben Alwick from Spurs. Toni Silva, a 17-year old attacking midfielder, has been signed for an undisclosed fee from Liverpool. Tomasz Cywka has come in from Derby, he was described by Rams manager Nigel Clough as "an inexperienced and not very bright footballer" and very recently experienced striker Marlon Harewood, who was on trial at South Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday, has been signed on a free.

Prediction - Punched above their weight for a while I think this time Barnsley will fall through the trap door. 24th.

Fans View with Rob Miles of Barnsleymad.co.uk

1. How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

As the old saying goes- a game of two halves. Had a terrific first half to the season, including winning four games in a row for the first time in seven years and with a superb strike-force- Ricardo Vaz Te scored 12 in 14, and Craig Davies notched 9 in 11 to leave us 13th on New Years Eve and just six points off the top six.2012 though was nothing sort of a disaster. We lost key players Vaz Te, Danny Drinkwater and Jacob Butterfield, won just four of the final 22 matches to finish one place outside the bottom three. If Portsmouth had not been deducted 10 points for entering administration we would have been relegated.

Best moment- doing the double over Leeds United, including a 4-1 win at Oakwell.

Worst moment- Seeing Vaz Te sold to West Ham. Our goal-threat went with him to Upton Park, evidenced by the fact he went on to score 12 in 16 for them.

2. Who was your best and worst performer last season?
Ricardo Vaz Te was ridiculously too good for us, and brought out the best in Craig Davies. Quite a few nominees for the worst performer as some of our results were abject in that second half of the season, including losing 5-3 and 4-0 (twice) at home. The whole team was a shambles from January.

3. How do you think you''ll do this season? Hopes, final position?

Not optimistic at all. The squad has hardly been improved. Kelvin Etuhu and Jacob Mellis may turn into good signings but the big fanfare over the signing of Mido has been well and truly flattened by the fact he is now out for three months with a torn hamstring. The whole spine of the team looks weak and it will be a great achievement if we stay up. Final position: 22nd

4. What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

As mentioned before, Euthu and Mellis have potential but it is whether Hill can unlock it. The new goalkeeper- Ben Alnwick has looked dodgy in pre-season and the other two- Mido and Silva are crocked.

5. A rather high-profile signing in Egyptian striker Mido what did you make of it when you heard that Barnsley had signed him?

I was absolutely buzzing when it was announced, but when he arrived he looked like he had just eaten two elephants, and subsequently tore his hamstring. Could be a big name flop.

6. Which player would you happily get rid of?

Be easier to say who I wouldn't. But most of all, Stephen Foster- despite being a good servant to the club, has had his day.

7. Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Its a big season for Davies after going off the boil last term whilst I have high hopes for Mellis who looked good on loan last season.

8. Fans favourite?

Bobby Hassell. Into his ninth season with the club and is a legend.

9. Any player impressed you during pre-season?

We've looked a little undercooked during pre-season- worryingly but it all depends on how we do once the season kicks-off.

10. Are you happy with your manager?

Nope. I find his cocky, arrogant and rude. It would be acceptable if he could back his brassiness up but at times last season he looked out of his depth, and blamed every defeat on the fans. When the wheels fell off after New Year, he looked like he wanted to be anywhere but Oakwell.

11. What advice would you give Keith Hill?

Lay off the fans- we pay your wages. And stop signing all your Rochdale mates.

12. Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?

If it wasn't for Patrick Cryne, there would not be a club to support. But he has court case coming up over some dodgy dealings and its questionable whether he is still committed to the club. He has admitted he would love a buyer to come in and take the club off his hands.

13. Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Leeds and Sheffield Wednesday- obvious local reasons.

14. Any opposition player you admire?

I think Jordan Rhodes (another lad we let go) could storm this league like he did League One.

15. Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three
to go down

1. Blackburn
2. Cardiff
Play-offs - Blackpool, Birmingham, Blackburn, Watford
Relegated :Peterborough, Barnsley, Millwall


Birmingham City

Last Season Stats - 4th - Top Scorer - Marlon King (16)

Birmingham were in crisis following their relegation from the Premier League with a mass exodus of players leaving and trouble in the boardroom the task to pick up the pieces was former Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton. Houghton managed to mould a team together that challenged at the top but the lottery of the play-offs didn't go in their favour as Blackpool knocked them out in the semi-finals. Comes the summer and Hughton is given another shot at the Premier League when Norwich City come calling after Paul Lambert leaves and the torch is handed to former Huddersfield Town manager Lee Clark. Clark has kept the nucleus of the squad that has some good youngsters in the team and has warned the sharks off highly-rated goalkeeper Jack Butland. Clark has added some good additions in Darren Ambrose (Crystal Palace), Hayden Mullins (Portsmouth) and Peter Lovenkrands (Newcastle) and made two shrewd loan signings in Ravel Morrison (West Ham) and Ben Gordon (Chelsea) so be interested to see what Birmingham will do this season.

Prediction - I think Birmingham have a decent squad and I can see them getting into the play-offs. For me the only downside for The Blues could be Lee Clark's inexperience of the Championship. 5th

Fan's view with Chris Quinn. You can follow Chris on Twitter @chrisquinn3




How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

Last season was surprising for us. We were in an apparent financial meltdown, had sold our best players and was being tipped for relegation by many. However, we finished in the play-offs despite playing 60+ games. The highlight of the season was Chris Wood's winner away in Bruges in the TENTH minute of added on time. I was there and that will be up there with winning the Carling Cup as one of my best days. It was hard to have a worst moment due to the surprising success, but going out of the Europa League group stages despite recording a mammoth tenth points was relatively disappointing.

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Our squad has been improved this season and with less distractions, we should be aiming to at least repeat last season's feats. We lost Chris Hughton, which was a blow, but we've replaced him with Lee Clark who has impressed me so far.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

Our only permanent outgoing was Jordon Mutch, which was disappointing, but we've replaced him with a duo of Hayden Mullins, who has bags of experience, and Darren Ambrose, who is fantastic with the ball at his feet. The addition of Peter Lovenkrands should give us a much bigger goal threat and he should be up with the division's top goalscorers.

Which player would you happily get rid of?

Whilst I wouldn't be as crude as to say 'happily' get rid of, I think we could do with offloading Nikola Zigic. The Serb is lethal on his day, but his wages are not sustainable for a club in the Championship. I'm just happy Guirane N'Daw has gone.

Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Bit easy to say Jack Butland, but he will make an impression as he has yet to play for us competitively. He'll be replacing Boaz Myhill who we had last season and he's looked impressive so far.

Fans favourite?

Nathan Redmond was born in the local area and has a lot of young fans, especially young girls. The older generation have taken to Chris Burke for reasons mentioned earlier.

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

We've allowed a few youngsters to join the pre-season tour and they've all done relatively well. Jack Deaman is a young defender who has impressed, whilst Will Packwood looks a natural athlete. Young left-back Mitch Hancox has scored and looked an exciting prospect - and is a born and bred Bluenose! All three have been given a squad number for this season.

How did you feel when Lee Clark was appointed new Birmingham City manager?

I was very happy, actually. We'd lost Chris Hughton and knew we was not in a position where we could pay compensation for a manager. That left Clark at the top of the list. He's young, hungry, plays good football and talks a very good game. That, and he isn't Mick McCarthy.

What advice would you give Clark?

Try and keep the attacking ethos that we developed last season. The fans were appreciative of that, even when it was going wrong and they'll stay on his side for much longer if we're trying the right things.

Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?

A resounding no. It's hard to like your chairman when he's in prison.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

It's always nice to beat Wolves. Home and away would be nice. And Millwall at The Den is always tasty.

Any opposition player you admire?

Loads. The division is packed with quality. The relegated teams have Premier League quality, whilst teams like Cardiff have invested in Heider Helguson who is a good, if not glamorous, signing. Peter Whittingham and Thomas Ince are two of the most exciting players in the league off the top of my head.

Predict the champions, runners-up and four teams for the play-offs plus the three teams to go down.

1.Cardiff 2. Bolton 3.Birmingham 4.Blackpool 5.Wolves 6.Hull - although I fancy Derby to surprise a few and just miss out.


22nd. Millwall 23rd. Watford (an experiment gone wrong?) 24th. Barnsley



Blackburn Rovers

Last Seasons Stats - 19th (Premier League) - Top Scorer - Yakubu (17)

Many Rovers fans wouldn't disagree when I said what is going on at Ewood Park is a bit of a circus at the moment. The Indian owners the Venky family took over sacked Big Sam and replaced him with his assistant Steve Kean. 35 losses out of his 66 games so far in charge and Kean has got Rovers relegated to the second tier of English football after a season of turmoil on and off the pitch. Fans protests, aeroplanes with 'Kean Out' banners flying over Ewood Park and even a chicken running on the pitch in a Blackburn flag showed how bad it was Lancashire last season. They've lost some key players in top scorer Yakubu who has gone to China for a big pay day and Junior Hoilett has left for QPR but Kean has snapped up an ageing but still superb Danny Murphy on a free transfer and his team mate Dickson Etuhu from Fulham. The experienced Portuguese striker Nuno Gomes has also arrived at Ewood Park along with former Sheffield United winger Colin Kazim-Richards but £3million signing from Newcastle Leon Best will miss the first few months through injury.

Prediction - Rovers have a squad on paper that could win the league but with all the turmoil and with Kean looking over his shoulder as soon as he loses a match I think Rovers will finish in the play-offs. 6th

Fans view with members Rover The Top and Roversmillsy of the forum Roverstalk.com

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

RTT - We were awesome last year, won the Premier League and the Champions League. It's hard to understand why we have to play in the Championship this year... I'm guessing this is a generic set of questions? I'll answer the other bit seriously - best moment, beating Man Utd at their place. Worst moment, the stupid stunts some of our 'fans' pulled during games, eg plane flyovers, throwing a chicken on the pitch... madness.

RM - Awful season, wish I could erase it from my memory. Best moment will be winning away at Old Trafford. How a team can win away at Old Trafford and get a draw at Liverpool and still get relegated is ridiculous. The worst moment is either the defeat at home to Bolton or the defeat at home to Wigan which confirmed our relegation.

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

RTT - Best performer - Yakubu. Worst performer - tied between everyone else. With a special mention for Scott Dann.

RM - Best player was Yakubu by far. If it wasn't for him we would have been relegated in February. The worst performer was either Scott Dann or Radoslav Petrovic. When they both played, we effectively played with 9 men.

How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?

RTT - I hope we'll win promotion. But I think top 10 is a more realistic, conservative aim.

RM - Hopefully automatic promotion but with the clown in charge I think the best we can hope for is a top 10 finish.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

RTT - So far we've kept most of our squad together, Yakubu and Hoilett are the only departures as yet despite predictions of a mass exodus. However, the problem there is that our squad last year was pretty crap. As far as signings go, we've brought Danny Murphy and Dickson Etuhu down form the PL, which sounds good in theory. We've also added Kazim-Richards who played for Sheffield United once and 101 Portuguese midfielders. And signed Leon Best so that he could test out our medical facilities.

RM - It's a great squad for the Championship. Martin Olsson would get in most PL sides. Danny Murphy and Dickson Etuhu among with a lot of our others from our squad would get in most Championship teams and Kazim-Richards is looking pretty sharp. We need a new CB and a new LB if Olsson goes.

Which player would you happily get rid of?

RTT - So many candidates... but no one who annoys me for reasons other than not playing well enough.

RM - N'Zonzi, Petrovic and Dann. N'Zonzi has probably only made 1 forward pass in 3 years! As mentioned before, Dann and Petrovic are awful.

Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

RTT - Danny Murphy. I'm expecting the same sort of class he's shown in the PL for the last decade or so.

RM- Danny Murphy. We've been crying out for a midfielder to dictate the play and tempo of a match and I feel Murphy will be our man.

Fans favourite?

RTT - Paul Robinson, probably. It's taboo to criticise him, no matter how many goals we concede.

RM- Givet is probably the most liked player by our fans. He's willing to put his body on the line for his team and every fan wants to see that.

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

RTT - Don't pay much attention to pre-season. I read that one of the young Portuguese lads, Nunes, had caught the eye, though.

RM- Morten Gamst Pensioner has scored in the last 3 pre-season games and I think he'll take that form into the Championship. Colin Kazim-Richards has been scoring for fun in pre-season as well and if he can keep it up, it'll keep us in good stead for the Championship. When Murphy has played, we've kept possession better and looked better in general than when he's not played.

Are you willing to give Steve Kean a final chance this season?

RTT - There's not much choice, in my opinion. He's been given another chance by the people with the power to make the decision. If fans want to see Rovers do well, they have to get behind the team, even with him as manager.

RM- No. He should have gone ages ago. He's clueless and out of his depth. His football is boring(worse than Big Sams) and he comes across as a cock in his interviews.

What advice would you give Kean?

RTT - It really isn't worth the abuse.

RM- Point to the door and tell him to leave and don't come back.

What do you make to the owners of Blackburn Rovers?

RTT - Odd phrasing... They could have handled some things better but at the same time the ridicule and abuse of them is over the top. You can look at other clubs and see that takeovers bring change and it's not always for the best, at least not in the short term. But I'd use Newcastle and West Ham as examples of sides who've had a blip and bounced back once the dust settled. I hope we do the same.

RM- Same as Kean. Clueless and useless. I would feel a bit better about them if the sacked Kean and replaced him with an experienced manager.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

RTT - Burnley. They're our main rivals. And we haven't lost to them for a long, long time.

RM- Burnley. Their is nothing better than beating the 6 fingered inbreds and keeping them quiet.

Any opposition player you admire?

RTT - Wilfried Zaha - he's got a nice arse….

RM- I would have loved to have had Bellamy back for a second spell and I'm gutted he want to Cardiff. Also, Lewis Dunk from Brighton seems very underrated and he's just the type of defender I would love at Rovers.

Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three to go down
RTT - Champions - Rovers.
Runners up - Wolves.
Play offs - Birmingham, Blackpool, Bolton, Leicester.
Relegated - Barnsley, Peterborough and of course, Burnley.


RM- Wolves(If Fletcher stays)
Runner up: Birmingham
Play offs: Cardiff(As much as I hate them, Wittingham and Bellamy should fire them to at least a play-off spot)
Leeds(Even though Snodgrass has left, I feel their team is stronger than last season)
Leicester(They have a strong enough squad to at least challenge for a play-off spot)
Blackburn(Probably more hope than a proper prediction but if Kean goes early, we might challenge)
Relegation: Sheff Wed(Don't think they have improved their squad to stay up)
Huddersfield(Had a soft spot for HTFC ever since Pilky played for you but think you'll struggle)


Blackpool

Ian Holloway continues to keep the tangerine bandwagon rolling after relegation from the Premier League in 2011 they nearly bounced back at the first attempt but they suffered the Wembley blues after West Ham pipped them in the play-off final in May. With little money to spend Holloway wheel and deals and moulds a squad into an attacking team with flair and goal scoring power. Veteran Kevin Phillips still knows when the onion bag is and doesn't look likely to be giving up just yet.

Last Season Stats - 5th - Top Scorer Kevin Phillips (16)

Prediction- A good attacking team with a manager who knows what this division is about but I'm think this season the bubble might burst but will be challenging for play-offs. 7th

Fans view with John Campbell of BFCBlog.co.uk

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

The best moment had to be the run in at the end of the season peaking at the correct time to get into the play-offs with a good run of form behind us. The 5 against Leeds away was a great result. The worst, no surprise the defeat in the playoff final to West Ham, so close to getting a winner but we lacked fire power.

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Best, a three way behind Kevin Phillips, Matt Phillips and Tom Ince who all got on the score sheet. However all of them had dips of form throughout the year. Consistency wise Matt Gilks didn't dip in form and certainly won us many points. As for the worst, at times Lomana LuaLua was as frustrating as he was brilliant. We also brought in John Fleck on loan from Rangers who was a "2nd Charlie Adam in waiting" but nothing came from his 9 appearances.

How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?

We have to go for automatic promotion, unfortunately anything less is going to be a failure, that's not the fans expectation that view has come from Ollie and the players. Play-offs would be ok however a defeat would be very hard to take again.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

We're going to play like Spain, no joke we've brought in more midfielders than any other position and currently have 14 in the squad of 34. Names, Isaiah Osbourne once of Villa, Tiago Gomes who played in Spain, Scott Robertson who played for the two teams in Dundee. There's one or two more signing to come in however we look really short of strikers with only Kevin Phillips and your old boy Gary Taylor-Fletcher in the squad.

Which player would you happily get rid of?

None really, overall the squads full of talent however there's a few in the "development squad" who I can't see breaking into the first team.

Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Hopefully Tiago Gomes who has impressed in pre-season it depends on how quick he gets into the pace of the game and settles down, he's apparently got an eye for goal which could be essential considering the lack of forwards we have.

Fans favourite?

Ince, and Matty Phillips both exciting to watch. However Gilks, Cariny and Evatt do a great job at the back, plenty of passion and commitment.

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

As mentioned above Tiago Gomes has done well in the pre-season but nobody standing out at the moment.

What is your manager Ian Holloway like?

He's great to have at the club, inspires players and gets the best out of players who may have not been performing at other clubs. Technically his open to change and willing to admit mistakes which is refreshing.

What advice would you give Holloway?

To pick his first 11 and stick with it, last season it took a while for him to learn his best starting 11. He's partial to chopping and changing brining in loan players. However he gets there in the end but would be nice to see us settled a little earlier in the season.

Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

It's hard to be happy with Oyston who still trying to offer players £90 a week deals, doesn't pay for agent fees often, won't pay for much. However, we are in a great position financially and considering whats happening to other clubs around the UK we have to be happy.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Blackburn and Burnley, there's a local rivalry but it's not too nasty. Beating Bolton would also be be nice.

Any opposition player you admire?

I think Bellamy for Cardiff will do well however I can't see the team doing too well. The majority of the top players from the Championship last season have moved on to the top flight either gaining promotion or being signed, at the moment there's no real standout player for me.

Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three to go down

Winner : Bolton

Runner up : Blackpool

Play-offs : Wolves, Leeds, Leicester, Birmingham

Down, Barnsley, Bristol, Palace


Bolton Wanderers

A big season for Bolton Wanderers and for the reputation of Owen Coyle. They slipped into the Premier League trap door after 11 years and 15 players left the Reebok Stadium once they fell through it. But Coyle has kept the nucleus of the squad the likes of veteran Kevin Davies, Martin Petrov and top scorer Ivan Klasnic. The return of Stuart Holden will be a big boost. Coyle has moved quickly to snap up Keith Andrews on a free and Matt Mills from Leicester so on paper they have one of the strongest teams in the league.

Last Season - 18th (Premier League) - Top Scorer - Ivan Klasnic

Predicition - A good squad and a good manager I can see Bolton going back up at the first attempt. 1st

Fans view with Tom Clarke. You can follow Tom on Twitter @tommyc58

1. How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

Last season was horrible - we really struggled. Coming up against City, United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea in our first 7 games didn't help. I kept feeling we didnt have much luck last season, Chung Yong had his leg broken in pre season against Newport, it was a bad tackle from a non league player. Stuart Holden also didnt feature in any of our league games. Both Chung Yong and Holden are our stand out players, they are our creativity and we just couldn't cope without them. Best Moment was the 5-0 'revenge' win against Stoke, it was one of our few decent performances all season. Worst moment was seeing Fabrice Muamba lying on the turf at White Hart Lane. Relegation was pretty nasty as well!

2. Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Best Performer - Bogdan in goal had a good season. Petrov finished the season well, but was average for the first half of the season. Worst Performer - how long have you got?! Zat Knight and Paul Robinson were painfully bad. Darren Pratley had a poor first season.

3. How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position

This season we will have a stronger side than last season. Chung Yong is back from injury as is Tyrone Mears and Holden I pray will be ready before Christmas. I can see us getting promotion, but don't think we will win the league outfit.

4. What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

The squad is strong, still a couple of areas that need working on, we are desperate for a holding midfielder and still need cover for the centre back positions. New signings have all been pleasing, Matt Mills, Keith Andrews, Andy Longergan are all experienced players who will help fill the squad out. Benik Afobe on loan from Arsenal scored a hat rick in pre season vs Tranmere, he looks like an exciting young player who is eager to learn and improve.

5. Which player would you happily get rid of?

Zat Knight, if Wheater had not been ruled out for 9 months in April in our match vs Blackburn I don't think we would have offered Knight a new contract. He is clumsy and for a guy that stands at 6ft 6 he is useless in the air.

6.Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Marvin Sordell - he should be buzzing from his time spent with Team GB and hopefully Coyle plays him this season.

7. Fans favourite?

Everyone loves our Stuart Holden. Super Kevin Davies is also liked by the majority. He has given his all for us over the last 10 years.

8.Any player impressed you during pre-season?

We have a young lad called Josh Vela who made his league debut towards the end of last season. We also rejected a 1 million pound bid from Liverpool for him. He is a centre midfielder who looks comfortable on the ball, definitely one to watch out for.

9. What is your manager Owen Coyle like?

He is a nice bloke, dealt with the Muamba situation perfectly, however some of his tactics are questionable and he doesn't have a Plan B. He rarely plays anything other than 442, which is fine if you have the correct personnel. We often get over-run in midfield which is understandable when you have 3 attacking midfielders and one defensive midfielder up against the oppositions 5 midfielders!

10. What advice would you give to Coyle?

Play 4-5-1 away from home against the better teams! Also when the opposition have a corner do not drag all 10 outfield players back into the back, leave 1 on the half way line. Lastly do not sign anyone else from Burnley.

11.Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

Many people seem to have a problem with our chairman, these are the same people that want to see us splash the cash, without the chairman's financial control we could easily have turned out to be another Leeds. Regarding the backroom staff, Coyle took all his chums from Burnley which in my opinion was a big mistake. We have recently lost one of the best goalkeeping coaches in the country Phil Barber and the medical staff are less than popular. Sean Davis was very complementary of them when he left on a free transfer at the end of last season. Mears and Holden both came back to soon from serious injuries and David Wheater was sent back on the pitch for 10 minutes without his shin bone connected to his knee. I am no medical expert so I might be being far to critical here.

12.Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Blackburn - our main rivals, always nice to beat them. Wolves - they hate us after Super John McGinlay gave one of their players a wee push in a play off semi final in the 90's.

13. Any opposition player you admire?

To be honest my knowledge of Championship players is very weak, I became a Premier League snob over the years! I like Rhodes at Huddersfield, Zaha from Palace is an exciting player.

14.Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three teams to go down

Champions - Leicester
Runner-Up - Bolton
Play-Off - Wolves, Forest, Birmingham, Cardiff
Relegated - Blackburn, Peterborough, Millwall


Brighton and Hove Albion

Brighton flirted with the play-offs last season but a 10th place finish was very respectable from a side that had only come up from League One the previous season. Gus Poyet brought in Spanish playmaker Vincente on a free last season and has managed to keep him after an impressive season. This summer Poyet has added former Manchester goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak, former Valencia full back Bruno Salter and Manchester City left back Wayne Bridge on a season-long loan as well as keeping hold to his young talent. Could be a telling season for Craig Mackail-Smith.

Last Season - 10th - Top Scorer - Ashley Barnes (11)

Prediction - Got a good squad and will be challenging for the play-offs this time around or even better but I feel they may just fall at the final hurdle. 8th

Fans view with Tom from bha.vital football.co.uk

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

10th place finish on our return to the Championship, which I think everyone would have taken. Best moment was Will Buckley's 97th minute winner in our first game at the Amex on the opening day - a quite momentous occasion capped off beautifully by an instant hero. Worst moment was undoubtedly our capitulation at home to arch-rivals Palace, surrendering a 1-0 goal lead with 10 minutes remaining, shipping 3 quick-fire goals and losing 3-1.

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Best performer was Liam Bridcutt, as voted for by the fans. Epitome of consistency in the holding midfield role, gets through an incredible about of work that does not go unnoticed by the Albion faithful. Captain Gordon Greer also had a tremendous season. Worst was probably new signing Ryan Harley, who everyone had high hopes for, after the reviews from his time at Exeter.

How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?

Another play-off push would be great, but hoping we can sustain it a little better when it comes down to the crunch-time. Gus has bought in experience (Champions League no less) to hopefully address this, although most fans can't help but feel we're still in need of a proven goalscorer to truly complete the side. If I was being optimistic I'd say 6th.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

Looking very, very good. Certainly as good it's been in my life-time. Gus has moved to bring in some experienced defensive players in Tomasz Kuszcak, Bruno Saltor and Wayne Bridge (loan) to sure up the back-line, whilst applying some much need steel to the midfield with the return of Andrew Crofts from Norwich. Vicente, our popular Spanish playmaker has signed on for another year, so it's looking rather tasty. Like I said, just in need of another striker.

Which player would you happily get rid of?

As strange as it sounds there aren't any who I can comfortably say have nothing to offer at this level. If I was being ruthless, I'd probably say Casper Ankergren (two keepers ahead of him now) and Ryan Harley, who doesn't appear to have the fight to go alongside the talent.

Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?



If Vicente can stay fit, it'll be him. By far the most influential player for us going forward, can pick out some sublime passes and his touch and awareness is just on another level. Kuszczak should make a big difference between the sticks for us, whilst Crofts will help free up the likes of Vicente, Buckley etc.. to roam forward.

Fans favourite?

Vicente, producing some quite stunning displays last season, and would quite comfortably rank among the most naturally gifted players to wear the stripes. New arrival Bruno has made an instant impression, whilst Bridcutt and Buckley remain as popular as ever.

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

As mentioned, Bruno is looking classy at right-back, linking up well with his mate Vicente (both ex-Valencia). Ashley Barnes has scored a bucket-load, the most I can remember from an Albion striker in pre-season, so hopefully he'll carry it through.

What is your manager Gus Poyet like?

A remarkably ambitious man who has re-shaped the club from top to bottom since his arrival just under 3 years ago. Pass, pass, pass is his philosophy - now ingrained into the minds of the senior team right down to the youth teams - and he won't have it any other way. It has produced some brilliant displays, along with some frustrating ones, but I think most agree it's the way forward and we'll be reaping the benefits in the long-run. Thus far, it's hard to question what he's achieved with us.


What advice would you give to Poyet?

Keep doing what you're doing. And don't leave anytime soon, please.

Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

Yes, we're in safe hands with life-long Albion fan Tony Bloom in charge - his family have been on the board for generations.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Palace - revenge for last season.

Any opposition player you admire?



Plenty. Nicky Bailey at 'Boro has always impressed me, along with Cardiff's Peter Whittingham.


Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three
to go down

1. Wolves
2. Middlesbrough
---------------------

3. Cardiff
4. Bolton
5. Leicester
6. Brighton

---------------------

22. Peterborough
23. Derby
24. Barnsley



Bristol City

Late season form and the goals of former Huddersfield Town striker Jon Stead ensured that Bristol City fight another day in the Championship. Goals were a problem last season for The Robins as Nicky Maynard, who left the club in January for West Ham, was their top scorer with just 8 goals. Derek McInnes replaced Keith Millen in October and so far has signed some experienced players in Jody Morris, Paul Anderson and Greg Cunningham. Keeping winger Albert Adomah is a big bonus for City.

Last Season - 20th - Top Scorer - Nicky Maynard (8).

Predicition- I think the writing maybe on the wall for City and that trap door is sucking them towards it. 22nd

Fans view with Mike James you can follow Mike on Twitter @jambojambo83

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

We got off to a terrible start. Keith Millen didn't strengthen the team in key positions, especially at the back. It got to a stage where we never looked like winning and if we went 1-0 down the game was as good as over. McInnes came in and performances improved straight away. He moved us out of the relegation zone. A couple of key wins against fellow strugglers meant we were safe with a couple of games to spare. Highlights include beating Southampton home and away as well as beating Coventry at home 3-1 which almost certainly guaranteed survival. Worst moments would be losing home and away against our local rivals Cardiff.


Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Best: Jon Stead put in some key performances when it really mattered, as did Cole Skuse.

Worst: the whole team massively under performed.


How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?

Del McInnes has got the City fans excited again. Brought in some quality signings and got rid of the overpaid deadwood which were preventing the club from being able to bring in players last season. A top 10 finish would be great. With the addition of a quality centre back and striker, we could make the play offs with a little luck.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

We do have some quality players and it seems that McInnes is the man that can get the best out of them and get them playing well together. Paul Anderson, Greg Cunningham and Tom Heatin are exciting signings with age on their side. Jody Morris looks to be that midfielder that can pick a pass and keep possession which we have lacked since Paul Hartley left.


Which player would you happily get rid of?

Damion Stewart


Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Adomah if we can keep hold of him

Fans favourite?

Adomah and Stead

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

Not been to any friendlies but It seems that Morris has been very impressive.

What is your manager Derek McInnes like?

Young, hungry for success. Seems to be admired and well thought of both at City and around the country and of course in Scotland

What advice would you give to McInnes?

None. I, like most City fans trust Del and are excited about where he can take us. He knows we need another striker and a centre back and he will wait for the right players. He won't panic buy or buy for the sake of it like Gary Johnson used to do.

Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

Yes definitely. They have brought in a new ticketing structure for pay on the day fans which seems to have gone down well with the fans and should see the attendances increase.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Cardiff. Our biggest rivals.

Any opposition player you admire?

Although I obviously want to see them lose against us, I'm looking forward to seeing Jordan Rhodes, Danny Murphy, Jay Emmanuel Thomas, Stuart Holden and Wilfred Zaha. Would be brilliant to see Fabrice Muamba make a return at some point but I feel that may not happen for a while.

Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three to go down

1- Bolton

2- Wolves

3- Cardiff

4- Huddersfield

5- Blackburn (if they sack Kean and bring in a decent manager)

6- Leeds

3 to go down
Barnsley

Milwall

Crystal Palace or Sheffield Wednesday


Burnley

Eddie Howe has got Burnley playing football but the results last season didn't come and Burnley finished 13th some 13 points off the play-offs. Star striker Jay Rodriguez was sold to Southampton this summer for a cool £7million but they still keep hold of top scorer Charlie Austin. Jason Shackell has moved to Turf Moor to tighten up the defence in a move that left fans of his old club Derby in outrage. Also joining Shackell at Turf Moor is target man Luke O'Neill (Mansfield, undisclosed), George Porter (Leyton Orient, free),Joseph Mills (Reading, season-long loan), Sam Vokes (Wolves, undisclosed), Brian Stock (Doncaster, undisclosed).

Last Season - 13th - Top Scorer - Charlie Austin (16)

PredictionGreater consistency is needs if Burnley are to push for the play-offs but I fear if Austin is injured or in lack of form where else the goals will comes from. 13th.

Fans view with Tony at Clarets-mad.co.uk and Phil of Burnley.vital football.co.uk


How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

Tony - It was a strange season that can be split into three. We didn't start well and we didn't end well but had a fantastic run in the middle of the season when we were the form team in the league.

The best moments were probably winning the home game against Blackpool in front of the television cameras and also coming from behind to win at West Ham.

Worst moment was either of the Leeds games. Both looked in the bag and both times we conceded two late goals to lose.

Phil - In the end it was a pretty disappointing season, we have not taken advantage of our brief stay in the Premier League. Parachute payments are dwindling and we seem to have returned to being a mid-table side pleading poverty. Highlights were basically an improved away form but at the expense of poor home form! Good away wins against West Ham,Boro, Brighton amongst others were spoilt by home defeats to the likes of Millwall and Pompey with far too many draws as well

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Tony - The best performer was undoubtedly Jay Rodriguez and that's why Southampton have come in and spent £7 million on him. He was rated by many judges as the best forward in the Championship last season and I wouldn't disagree with that.

The worst was probably Brian Easton. I still fail to understand what persuaded us to sign him and he had some shocking games at left back before finally being left out and replaced.

Phil - Best was right back Kieran Trippier by some distance. New signing Keith Treacy was the most disappointing and he was sent out on loan



How do you think you''ll do this season? Hopes, final position?

Tony - My hopes, as always, are for a top six finish but I'm not so sure we'll be strong enough for that. I suspect we might be around mid-table, maybe around 10th.

Phil - We will continue to punch above our weight and hope for a play-offs spot. We will probably miss out though and finish about 7th-10th.

What''s your squad like, new signings, etc?

Tony - The squad is looking stronger. We've signed Jason Shackell who will, without doubt, strengthen us at the back and I've been impressed in pre-season with left back Joseph Mills. It's certainly not a squad you'd expect to struggle.

Phil - The six signings to date have not been too bad especially Shackell, Vokes and Stock. Providing we can hold onto Austin (hands off!!) we look reasonably strong

Which player would you happily get rid of?

Tony - I've no desire to get rid of anyone but Keith Treacy is a player with a lot to prove after a difficult first season. If he can get a place in the side and show some consistency he could make a massive difference.

Phil - Until recently I would have said Treacy but he's had a good pre-season and looks more hungry. Happy with all our squad at moment. All the bad uns have already got in their taxis and gone!



Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this
season?


Tony - Shackell, as already mentioned, will provide experience and leadership at the back and he'll be vital. I also think Chris McCann, who missed the 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons with injury, has a big chance of being back to his best and that will be a massive boost.

Phil - Jason Shackell without doubt! We have lacked a decent central defender for sometime and he is now also our captain replacing Chris McCann who came under a lot of criticism last season.

Fans favourite?

Tony - It's usually the goalscorers and with Jay Rod gone the attention will definitely turn to Charlie Austin our former bricklayer. He used to build walls but now he scores goals. Charlie is a goalscorer and he could be right up there this season in the Championship.

Phil - Probably still Kieran Trippier



Any player impressed you during pre-season?

Tony - As previously mentioned, new signings Shackell and Mills, but Austin's looked sharp as did Danny Ings before suffering a serious knee injury.

Phil - Personally not seen any pre-season games but Austin looks on fire and scoring for fun

What is your manager Eddie Howe like?

Tony - He gives the impression of being quiet and studious, very un-manager like, and I think that's what he is. He admits to not enjoying dealing with the media and I think he's very much happier on the training pitch.

Phil - I think he still has to prove himself. He is easily better than Laws but has a lot to do to better Coyle's achievements and motivational skills

What advice would you give to Howe?

Tony - Just win enough games.

Phil - Try and engage with the fans more and look a bit more excitable in the dugout. Spur on the team more if they are losing

Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

Tony - We've got two new chairmen. Barry Kilby stood down at the end of last season and has been replaced by fellow directors John B (he has a long Polish surname so just uses his initial) and Mike Garlick.

They are cheese and chalk. John is very personable. I've not met Mike but he comes across as very quiet.

Barry will be a hard act to follow but they can achieve it.

Phil - The jury is out. Barry Kilby retired as Chairman after 13 years at the helm in the summer. He was a popular figure although did have his critics at times especially on the ambition front. We now have a double-act with Mike Garlick and John Banaszkiewicz as joint chairmen. Watch this space!



Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

Tony - Blackburn Rovers and if not them then I'd say Blackburn Rovers. There's a real dislike for Bolton now because of the Lying Scotsman Owen Coyle, but Blackburn were, are, and always will be our rivals. We need to beat them.

Phil - It will always be Blackburn for obvious reasons but Bolton too now after the Coyle betrayal

Any opposition player you admire?

Tony - There are a lot of good footballers in the Championship and it's difficult to single any out.

Phil - Jordan Rhodes!! lol

Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three
to go down

Tony - I have to show some confidence and place us in the top group. If Wolves can sort out their problems they'll be a treat so I'll go for them and Birmingham to go straight up with Burnley, Leicester, Cardiff and Middlesbrough in the play offs.

Relegation? Right now I can't see too far past Millwall, Barnsley and Peterborough. I'd like it to be Blackburn though.

Phil - I will include Burnley as one of the play-off teams just for the hell of it! Cardiff, Birmingham, Blackpool the others. Wolves could well get automatic promotion back to Premier but Leicester could well be Champions. Barnsley can't keep going in the Championship forever and they could struggle this season to survive. Peterborough and Bristol City could also find it hard.


Cardiff City

Its been a funny old year for Cardiff. Last summer some big players left in Jay Bothroyd, Chris Burke and Craig Bellamy returned to his parent club and this left new manager Malky Mackay to pick up the pieces which he did and moulded Cardiff into a team once again in the thick of it. They were a kick away from winning the Carling Cup back in February but the play-off hoodoo hasn't vanished yet as eventual winners West Ham knocked the Bluebirds out in the semis. New owners have took over and changed the club badge and the home kit to red which has not gone down well with the Cardiff faithful but on the pitch Craig Bellamy has returned along with Joe Lewis (Peterborough, free), Jordon Mutch (Birmingham, undisclosed), Kim Bokyung (Cerezo Osaka, undisclosed), Heidar Helguson (QPR, undisclosed).

Last Seaon - 6th - Top Scorer - Peter Whittingham (12).

Prediction - Cardiff have a good squad on paper with Whittingham pulling the strings and I think Bellamy will fire Cardiff into promotion contenders but I think play-offs again. 3rd.

Fans view with Michael Morris of Cardiff Mad and Rhodi of Cardiff.vital football.co.uk

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

MM- 2011/2012 was the first season under Malky Mackay. With a top 6 finish in the Championship and a Wembley Cup final it was seen as a very successful first season for the new manager.

R -Same old same old result, but there was ultimately encouragement as well as disappointment. We fell short, predictably, in the play-offs where a mauling by West Ham was a definite low point. The most memorable moment was Ben Turner's injury time equaliser at Wembley. We still lost, but it was a special moment.


Who was your best and worst performer last season?

MM- Our Mr consistent is Peter Whittingham but the breakthrough player was Joe Mason. An impressive first season and a goal at Wembley against Liverpool to add to those he scored in the league. Despite scoring 10 goals Kenny Miller left fans frustrated. He could have and should have done better.

R -Peter Whittingham was classy as ever, Ben Turner a revelation but for me youngster Joe Mason gets the accolade of best performer especially when weighed against expectations for a very young, unproven striker. Mason improved steadily, showing a great attitude and intelligence. He's a very composed player, and will hopefully continue to impress. Clearly the 'worst'performer would not have featured much, but in terms of 'most disappointing' of the regular starters then Kenny Miller. Not through lack of effort, or ability but the style didn't suit him, he had some terrible luck and it just didn't workout for the Scotsman in South Wales.


How do you think you''ll do this season? Hopes, final position?

MM- After knocking the door of the Premier League for several seasons now and with the upheaval this summer that has seen the club change it's 100 year old traditional blue kits for red to appease the current owner then the expectation for many is promotion.

R -I'm confident we'll be in the top half again, but theChampionship is such a lottery that anything else is guesswork. I think a top 6finish is a must, and should be achievable for this squad.


What''s your squad like, new signings, etc?

MM- We've added quality players this summer. Craig Bellamy being the most famous but we have a Slovenian international striker (Etien Velikonja), a South Korean who won bronze at the Olympics last week (Kim Bo-Kyung), QPR's leading scorer last season (Heidar Helguson), Jordon Mutch from Birmingham, Joe Lewis from Peterborough.

R -We appear to have added real quality over the summer.Bellamy, Kim and Velikonja add flair and goals, while Jordon Mutch is a very highly rated midfielder and just what we needed. We are light on defenders at the moment, but have a strong starting back four and will hopefully add some cover soon.


Which player would you happily get rid of?

MM- If you hadn't just signed him I'd say it was time for Anthony Gerrard to move on. So thanks.

R -There's nobody that I want to leave particularly but for his own sake then Robert Earnshaw should probably depart. He's got plenty to offer, but barely featured last year. He's such a pro, and a hero in Cardiff – it's a massive shame and waste to see him continually left out and in terms of his competition – he will struggle again for game time.


Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Craig Bellamy will have something to prove. He would love to help fire the club to promotion.

R - Whittingham, Turner, Mutch, Bellamy…..hard to pick. South Korean Kim Bo Kyung is so far an unknown quantity but has excellent pedigree and will be unknown to Championship defenders too. You always want to see exciting attacking players come in and do well, hopefully Kim can do that.


Fans favourite?

MM- Bellamy is our marquee signing. Fans love Whittingham, Mason and Gunnarsson as well.

R -Craig Bellamy creates excitement at every touch. He has explosive pace and can always make thing happen, but the exacting high standards and work-rate he demands from everyone else show his passion and desire – which our fans love


Any player impressed you during pre-season?

MM- Velikonja has quietly gone about his business and caused defenders problems and he scored City's 4th goal against Newcastle on the weekend. I don't like judging on pre season though.

R -Everyone has shown glimpses of what they can offer, but AronGunnarsson seems to have stepped up a gear and has looked good. Due to injury,we haven't seen much of Jordon Mutch yet but his passing and distribution was exemplary on Saturday against Newcastle which was good to see.


What is your manager Malky Mackay like?

MM- Very impressive man. Professional, respectful and a fans favourite.

R - Malky is strong, determined and highly disciplined, he works very hard and asks that of all his players and due to his rigorous scouting procedures – they all fit his mould pretty well. He can be cautious, and is very loyal to his players so rotation isn't widely used but City are certainly lucky to have him and I think he's the right man for us.

What advice would you give to Mackay?

MM- Strengthen the defence.

R -I don't really feel qualified to give him advice! I'm sure he sees all the same positives and negatives as the fans, and probably understands them all a great deal better! I'd like to see him experiment a little more when things aren't going well and perhaps question the 'lopsided' formation with only one wide man but generally –just keep doing what he's doing….


Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

MM- Now that's a whole book all by itself. They have changed the clubs identity forcing fans to ask for refunds and handing back season tickets. But they have also pledged to make the club debt free. Fans have been torn, souls have been sold. So far the debts are still there but they have delivered funds to the manager to strengthen. I've never known any board that has split the fans like this one. I mention above many fans expect promotion. They feel it's the only outcome that would justify the boards decision to change the clubs' colours.

R -Very tough to answer this, I think all fans would prefer we play in blue but the owners have delivered in terms of players and I believe they have a definite plan for dealing with Sam Hammam and converting our debilitation debts to equity. We've had new owners, massive changes to our boardroom and a new CEO – all in a couple of years. That is unsettling to anybody, and we have a debt burden that is huge and still growing. Nevertheless, this is preferably to having either Hammam or Ridsdale anywhere near CCFC finances!



Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

MM- Bristol City because they are local rivals. Sheffield Weds to get one over Dave Jones, Blackpool because they beat us at Wembley. All of them really.

R -Have to say Blackpool, after they blitzed us in the Play-off final, we couldn't beat them last season either. We outplayed them up at Bloomfield Road, but a freak goal by Kevin Phillips and it ended 1-1. They demolished us at home and even after we took the lead, it was inevitable that Phillips would score again. He did. And Matt Phillips then waltzed through twice – a bad day for City.


Any opposition player you admire?

MM- Your striker Jordan Rhodes has impressed and it'll be interesting to see how he does at a higher level.

R -There are some excellent players in this division. Roger Johnson, Michael Chopra and Chris Burke have all played a big part in some exciting times for us as a club. Mark Davies at Bolton seems an excellent player, and will be a major force in the Championship if he stays.


Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three
to go down

MM- Cardiff, Wolves,

Birmingham, Bolton, Leeds, Leicester

Peterborough, Bristol City, Barnsley

R -Bolton to go up Champions, Wolves as runners-up. I think Cardiff, Leicester, Blackburn and Blackpool for the play-offs. Peterborough, Barnsley and possibly Millwall to be bottom three.


Charlton Athletic

Romped home with the League One title last season manager Chris Powell did an excellent job of getting rid of everyone and bringing in an entire new squad and turning them into champions. Been a quiet summer at The Valley with only three players coming in as of now Lawrie Wilson (Stevenage, undisclosed), Jordan Cook (Sunderland, free), Slaim Kerkar (Rangers, free).

Last Season - 1st(League One) - Top Scorer - Bradley Wright-Phillips (20).

Prediction - I think Charlton will do OK they haven't strengthened massively but Bradley Wright-Phillips's goals will keep them in the division. 18th.

Fans view Chris Thompson at cafcpicks.com/drkish

How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.

The best season most fans can remember. Many highlights, sorry to mention it but ending Huddersfield's record breaking unbeaten run convinced many Addicks their team was a bit special. Beating both Sheffield teams in successive games in January & sealing promotion at Carlisle in April are the stand out moments.

Not many low points but losing to Colchester & Notts County in the same week at The Valley in early March was the nadir.

Who was your best and worst performer last season?

Home grown right-back, Chris Solly, won the fans Player Of The Year trophy but Johnnie Jackson & Yann Kermorgant also had sound claims.

Leon Clarke was undoubtedly the biggest disappointment of the season.

How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?

There have not been any major signings during the summer so a season of consolidation probably beckons. A quality signing or two could see a push towards the play-offs but mid table is a realistic goal.

What's your squad like, new signings, etc?

Former academy player, Lawrie Wilson, has arrived from Stevenage, Jordan Cook & Salim Kerkar from Sunderland & Rangers are the only other newcomers. We are solid enough but the squad needs more depth in certain areas.

Which player would you happily get rid of?

Leon Clarke, failed to perform, poor body language, has not impressed his team mates or the fans.

Which player do you think will make the biggest impression in your team this season?

Yann Kermorgant is a warrior who creates as well as scores goals. Stunning set pieces too.

Fans favourite?

Chris Solly is a firm favourite with the fans. 'Chris Solly, Solly, he's only 5'3", he's better than John Terry, Chris Solly, Solly.'

I hasten to add he's not really 5'3".

Any player impressed you during pre-season?

Young striker, Michael Smith & midfielders Ruben Bover & Salim Kerkar have all shown promise.

What is your manager Chris Powell like?

Cult hero as a player, he's manged to increase his popularity since taking over at the helm.

What advice would you give to Powell?

Sometimes he can be a little slow to make substitutions, he'll need to be on the ball this season.

Are you happy with the Chairman/Backroom staff?

Backroom staff yes, chairman is a bit of a mystery. Very personable but it seems he's the frontman for the real money men.

Which team do you want to beat the most and why?

We renew acquaintances with local rivals Millwall & Crystal Palace this season, the fans will want the local bragging rights.

Any opposition player you admire?

There's a striker at the Galpharm I quite like. Fancy swapping him for Leon Clarke?!!

Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the three to go down

Bolton & Leicester to finish first & second. Wolves, Blackburn, Leeds & Burnley for the play-offs.

Barnsley look set for a difficult season & could struggle to avoid the drop. Peterborough & Bristol City are my tips to go down with them.