Championship Season Preview 2019/20 – Part 2
Jul 27, 2019 18:40:52 GMT
Post by northwesthoop on Jul 27, 2019 18:40:52 GMT
Championship Season Preview 2019/20 - Part 2
Welcome to Part 1 of our full Championship Season Preview. Ahead of the new season we’ve been in touch with a fan from every club in The Championship asking each of them 5 questions to get their views on their own clubs, on QPR and their tips for promotion and relegation.
Part 2 covers the views of fans from the second half of teams in The Championship from Luton Town to Wigan Athletic.
Each fan has given us their input on their own clubs, on QPR and their tips for promotion and relegation. We also have a QPR perspective from our friends at our old home QPRnet.
If you missed Part 1 with the lowdown from fans of Barnsley to Leeds you can catch up on that by clicking here: SEASON PREVIEW PART 1
Please do hit reply and leave your comments and thoughts below.
Let me again express my huge gratitude to everybody who contributed their views on their clubs. You can find the details of each respondent and a direct link to their twitter account under each club heading.
If you wish to jump to a particular team just click the name below:
Luton Town
Middlesbrough
Millwall
Nottingham Forest
Preston
QPR
Reading
Sheffield Wednesday
Stoke City
Swansea
West Brom
Wigan
Here we go...
Luton Town
The views of: Hatters Talk Supporters Group
Twitter Link: @hatterstalk
1) A first season back at this level in 12 years after back to back promotions...are you concerned it is too much too soon or positive you can keep pushing on?
Not concerned at all. Since the -30 and relegation from the football league we've been run by supporters of the club in 2020. The mistakes of the past have been learned from and eradicated and having spent 5 seasons in non-league we are grounded, more professional and fully aware of what can go wrong. We are where we are now because we deserve to be, it's been no fluke. Too soon? No. It's taken 12 years to get back here! Can we compete in the Championship? Ask me again after 10 games but, I see a mid to top half finish this season.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
Key men are the new manager Graeme Jones and James Collins - if he can continue where he left off last season every keeper in the league needs to practice picking balls out of their own net!
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
To be honest, I've not looked at QPR since about 2001. Who are you again?
4) Luton will finish where and why?
Mid to top half. We'll be too good to go down but may struggle against the ex-prem sides.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Up: Fulham, Wigan, Birmingham
Down: Barnsley, Brentford, Stoke (please)
Middlesbrough
The views of: Yusuf
Twitter Link: @yusufborofan
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Middlesbrough?
I think the new management duo of Woodgate as head coach and Robbie Keane as assistant has given us all a great deal of belief. Under the pragmatic style of Pulis, it became quite boring for a number of supporters. Woodgate has come in and promised to give youth a chance as well as a more attractive style of play.
Key men are Darren Randolph in goal, who is among the best keepers in the league as well as Lewis Wing, who had his breakthrough season last season and can prove to be a very good goalscoring midfielder with the new style
2) What are your concerns for 'Boro this season?
Lack of width and creativity. We lack a lot of creativity in the final third especially out wide. We have good strikers and central midfielders but lack natural wingers. We are a team that doesn't score much and we lack the extra bit of pace that can hit teams in the counter attack.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I think the appointment of Mark Warburton was very shrewd. Losing Luke Freeman is a disappointment, but expected. However with a proven goalscorer at this level and a good centre back, I can see a safe mid table finish. The league is tight and if QPR dont add then they could struggle but clever recruitment and a good manager should help QPR have a satisfactory season
4) Middlesbrough will finish where and why?
Lots of changes and I would be delighted with a top 6 finish. We have a number of very exciting youngsters that I cant wait to see. I think we can be underestimated. The appointment of Robbie Keane, who was one of the best strikers in English football in recent history, as assistant manager can prove to be a great appointment. They type of information he can share with the strikers will be so useful as we are low goalscorers
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
It’s hard to choose now as a few signings can change the predictions below, but this is how I see it now:
Promotion? West Brom, Leeds, Fulham
Relegation? Hull, Luton, Wigan
Millwall
The views of: Micky Simpson
Twitter Link: @millwallfotb
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Millwall?
Some great new signings hopefully will make this season more interesting and pre-season has shown that the team is looking connected, well, more so then the last part of last season where we were so lucky to survive and get another go at the championship. As long as all the players give everything on the pitch then I think we can surprise the league.
Some great youth players who hopefully will be given a chance by Harris to shine in the first team this season.
2) What are your concerns for Millwall this season?
That we keep playing this predictable style of football. As long as we have a Plan B and C this year that will stop my concern.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I feel for you guys as Holloway fucked you up too just like he did with us, why people keep giving him a job is a mystery to me.
QPR will finish below us, just to wind up a few pals who support you lot.
4) Millwall will finish where and why?
Top half of the table as I reckon last season was a massive and very painful learning curve for Harris and the players. I can’t see them all wanting that level of stress again.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion:
Leeds
Middlesbrough/West Brom
Fulham
As money really talks in this league!!
Relegation:
Luton
Barnsley
Charlton
Nottingham Forest
The views of: Forest Logic
Twitter Link: @forestlogic
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Nottingham Forest?
Have to feel positive each season, starting to feel like Bill Murray after being present at our last top flight game 20 years ago. This year it’s ultimately the hope our Foreign Connection click and more importantly that even if we have a bad start, the new boss is given time to implement his ideology.
Key men - Carvalho if he can stay fit, Lolley if we can keep him in January and one of the new guys. Amoebi and or Adomah I see as posing a big threat to championship defences.
2) Another change of manager and an ever increasing squad size as each manager brings in their own players... is that a concern?
Our instability has almost become the norm, as mentioned earlier, key more than anything is that the new squad has time to gel.
The squad size is a huge concern, there’s at least 12 players who I’d be happy if we just wrote off their current deals. Too many players on big wages and lacking the ability or drive for promotion could ultimately cost us.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
You guys if I’m honest aren’t seen as a threat which could ultimately help you, if that be a surprise promotion push I’d honestly be extremely surprised or more likely a relegation scrap is anyone’s guess given this leagues inability to comply to the norm.
Personally, I predict you guys to finish 14th which, no disrespect would for me epitomise Queens Park Rangers
4) Nottingham Forest will finish where and why?
Where will we finish? Head says 9th and another season of instability and resigned to being in this damn league forever. Heart says 6th, promoted at our first visit to the new Wembley.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
3 for promotion? Us, Fulham, Leeds/Cardiff.
3 for relegation? Barnsley, Reading, Blackburn or Derby
Preston North End
The views of: PNE Pete
Twitter Link: @pne_Pete
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Preston?
Feel positive about our attacking high pressure game, we can sometimes finish the game with 4/5 strikers on the pitch...the fans love it!!
Key players:
Pearson : - had loads of messages about how good he was off United fans when we signed him. Midfield general; will play in the Premier League for sure but doubt it will be with us!!
Bodin :- fans expecting a lot from him this season, scored a peach at the weekend. Top striker out injured last season.
2) What are your concerns for Preston?
Don’t have any relegation concerns at all; our concern is always keeping hold of key players like Pearson for as long as possible.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I think QPR will finish bottom half but not relegated, not heard much about your club recently.
4) Preston will finish where and why?
5th, we’re massively underrated by others which suits us fine. We have a much better team than people think, not the best by miles but the work ethic is top notch.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion: Fulham, Cardiff, WBA
Relegation: Wigan, Reading, Luton
Queens Park Rangers
The views of: QPRnet
Twitter Link: @qprnet
1) Are you happy with the appointment of Mark Warburton?
Early days, but on face value, yes. You can see why they went for him, especially given some of the other contenders being bandied about. The looming shadow of Tactical Tim made anyone else appear more palatable!
He had a reputation for stylish football, whether that can be replicated here remains to be seen. He’s certainly trying to build a squad with that in mind rather than trying to impose that style on a squad incapable of delivering like the previous incumbent.
He seems to have decided early who he does and doesn’t fancy, Furlong and Leistner numbering amongst them. Whether he is proved correct remains to be seen.
The oft quoted “plan b is to do plan a better” mantra might be used to beat him over the head if plan a turns into a shambles!
2) How pleased are you with the transfer business done so far?
This is an odd one as there appear to be two very differing methods in play at once. We are told that they want continuity and to develop yet here we are 10 transfers in and a whole host going out.
There seems to be book balancing on a massive scale underway. Plenty of high earners released and then the news that Leistner appears to be on his way would also see another big chunk of change off the weekly wage bill.
I like the look of the three loan players. Amos in particular sounds as though he could be that box to box midfielder that is so hard to find. Barbet also looks a good signing for the proposed style that Warburton wants.
Was a shame to see Furlong go, but he appears to divide opinion, as does everyone at Rangers it seems! The sale of Freeman was inevitable and I wish them both well.
Obviously we are still desperate for a decent striker, but who isn’t!
3) Who do you see as the key men and weak links in the QPR side?
I think the key men will be whoever makes up that crew of keeper, centre backs and deep lying midfielders. They’ll be under all sorts of pressure to play from deep and take the ball under pressure against teams that will press aggressively. On the flip side they could also very well become the weak link if the plan fails!
With the wholesale changes I think it will become apparent very quickly where our strengths and weaknesses lie, at the moment though it’s tough to call.
4) QPR will finish where and why?
Unfortunately I fancy us to be bottom three. If we do extremely well we might just about stay up by the skin of our teeth.
As I said to someone on Twitter, I’ve gone from positive, to dubious and now I’m concerned. Trying to bed this many players in whilst trying to win games is going to be unbelievably tough. We can’t afford to fall out of the blocks like last season. The fans are still bearing those scars and the last thing new, young players need is a furious crowd when their trying to settle in.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion - West Brom, Cardiff, Fulham
Relegation - Us, Millwall, Reading
Reading
The views of: The Tilehurst End
Twitter Link: @thetilehurstend
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Reading?
The mood around the club is completely different to how it was this time last year. Jose Gomes and Nigel Howe, who came in during late 2018, have reenergised a squad and fanbase that had both been pretty down in the dumps under managers Jaap Stam and Paul Clement, and also CEO Ron Gourlay. The club feels much more unified and is finally pulling together in the right direction.
It’s also great to see young players being given a proper chance to shine once more, with the current figures behind the scenes keen to see a strong pathway from the academy to the first team. The lack of that had been a major concern in recent years, but bringing it back will help us to be competitive going forwards.
I expect our key men to be Liam Moore and Andy Rinomhota. The former was made captain this summer and is a true leader on the pitch, but adds so much to the side with his defensive quality and ability to play out from the back. Rinomhota on the other hand - an academy graduate - is an energetic yet composed midfielder who balances out the side really well.
2) What are your concerns for Reading this season?
The squad’s gone through a lot of change this summer, with a large number of squad members departing: loanees, players out of contract and those on the fringes who realistically were being paid more than they were worth to the manager. However, replacing them has taken time, and even if we do manage to bring in a lot of bodies before the end of the window it’ll take a while to properly integrate them.
We’re also likely to be missing quality in the final third, at least going by the lack of goals in our pre-season tour of Spain. Although the defence is strong, coming up with goals of our own might be a slow, frustrating process for the manager.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I’m not sure to be honest. You seemed to have a good thing going for you at times last season with Steve McClaren - although it didn’t pay off across the season. Going in another direction with Mark Warburton is certainly an interesting move, and could well pay off considering his previous success with Brentford.
The signings of Liam Kelly (namesake of our former midfielder) and Yoann Barbet in particular look like astute captures, but on the whole I’m not sure that you’ve got enough quality to push for the top six just yet. The key for you at the moment - as it is for many other Championship clubs - is to get some stability going and improve over the next few years. Warburton may well be the right man for the job, but he needs time.
On the whole, QPR aren’t too dissimilar to Reading. Although you were a top-end Championship side a few years ago, that status seems now to have worn off. You need to find a different way of doing things and rebuild if you’re to regain that status and ultimately push into the Premier League. Then again, as with us, a few wrong steps and you’re looking at League One.
4) Reading will finish where and why?
12th, because the club as a whole is a much healthier one than last year, so should be able to steer clear of the bottom three, but it hasn’t got enough quality to trouble the top six. Then again, I could see us finishing anywhere between sixth and 24th, depending on how the season unfolds.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promoted: Fulham, Brentford, Leeds United
Relegated: Luton Town, Wigan Athletic, Barnsley
Sheffield Wednesday
The views of: Peter A. Løhmann from the Owls About Stat Podcast
Twitter Links: @ploehmann and @owlsaboutstat
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Sheffield Wednesday?
We're in limbo at the moment; we've no idea who will be manager a week from now. But before this Newcastle nonsense positivity was definitely building with some shrewd free transfer signings (Odubajo from Brentford, Harris from Cardiff, Julian Börner from Bielefeld). The biggest hire of the Summer could be Tony Strudwick as head of the sports medicine department, though.
2) What are your concerns for Sheffield Wednesday this season?
Bruce going! Steve Bruce was focusing more on the managerial than coaching side of things for us, leaving the coaching work to his skilled assistants, and putting in place a staff and infrastructure that could move us forward. Bruce also had a clear idea about how he wanted us to play and that we need pace.
On the pitch our biggest concern is the physical frailty of the playing squad. Westwood, Bannan, Reach, Fletcher and Forestieri all stay fit for a season and play 40+ games would make a massive difference.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
Losing Freeman is a big blow, and you're in a similar spot to us in that you have paid a lot of wages to a squad that haven't done a lot. You also seem to be bereft of an identity, like us. Warburton is an interesting hire as manager, but surely also one with doubts hanging over his head. Can he get you out of what feels like an eternal period of transition?
4) Sheffield Wednesday will finish where and why?
10th. Because we have good players - but not quite good enough.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promoted: Leeds (alas!), Huddersfield, Stoke.
Relegated: Charlton, Reading, Millwall.
Stoke City
The views of: Stoke Fans Council
Twitter Link: @scfcsc
1) What went so wrong for Stoke last season? Hot favourites for promotion, big money spent, amazing squad on paper and yet a pretty woeful season... Why?
Not prepared for the requirements of the Championship. Too many players believing they were too good to play in the league. Frailties from previous season not addressed.
2) What are your concerns for Stoke this season?
Need a prolific striker to turn draws into wins.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
Geoff Cameron says you have some good youngsters, a good spirit. Think you will finish at best mid table.
4) Stoke will finish where and why?
Finish top six and get promoted. Our manager will have them ready and he demands success.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion:Stoke, Cardiff WBA.
Relegation : Wigan, Charlton, Reading.
Swansea City
The views of: Vital Swansea
Twitter Link: @vitalswansea
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Swansea?
There's been plenty of positives about the new coaching setup since Steve Cooper has come in to replace Graham Potter. The football we're playing is very encouraging and it looks like he wants us to play with more intensity and pace on the attack. But like last season, there's still the feeling that we're 2-3 signings away from being a top 6 side and we're still lacking that strength in depth.
2) What are your concerns for Swansea this season?
Losing Oli McBurnie before the season starts is the main one. He's a massive player for us, scoring 22 league goals last season and we'd obviously miss that and his ability to drop deep and link up play. The other is our set piece weakness. We conceded 24 goals from set pieces last season and we really need to show a big improvement in that area this year as it cost us a fair amount of points.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
For me, there never seems to be a plan or structure in place and there's too many constant changes, without that consistency it's difficult to achieve success. The appointment of Steve McLaren was a strange one and his sacking wasn't surprising. Losing a number of players from last season as well I can't see an improvement on last season's finish.
4) Swansea will finish where and why?
Mid-table but this depends on whether McBurnie stays or not. If he does, I'd like to think we can finish in the top half but again, with a lack of strength in depth I think we'll fall short of the top 6.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion? Fulham, West Brom, Leeds.
Relegation? Barnsley, Charlton, Birmingham.
West Bromwich Albion
The views of: The Baggies Bible
Twitter Link: @thebaggiesbible
1) Bringing Slaven Bilic to the Championship is seen as something of a coup... are you expecting big things? Or are you concerned he is using you as a stepping stone for a bigger job again or could even walk if he doesn't get his own way?
I am and I’m not. I expect big things from Slav because he’s a great manager, but of course there’s plenty of confinement’s that he has and will face, in terms of transfers and squad, and the Championship is a very unpredictable league. I’m not concerned he is using us as a stepping stone at all as I see him as a very sincere man, a passionate manager and judging by his words upon arrival he’s passionate about the project he has undertook! I am worried however about him walking, he’s already voiced his displeasure about transfers, and as he is a straight talking manager, I don’t think he’ll take our boards messing about for too long. We just have to hope we start getting people in, or risk him walking.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
The key men I would say are Ahmed Hegazi, Kieran Gibbs and Matt Phillips, mainly Hegazi. Hegazi is our rock and undoubtedly, in my opinion, the best centre back in the Championship. Without him I honestly don’t know where we’d be. Phillips is capable of being a difference maker but is maybe too inconsistent, while Gibbs is the other end of the spectrum. Mr. Consistent, capable of getting into scoring positions and putting a great cross in, and always reliable at the back. They will be crucial for us, regardless of who we bring in.
In terms of weak links, I wouldn’t say there’s any realistically, but we certainly need to add to our ranks, especially up front. We’ve lost 46 goals in Rodriguez and Gayle, so there’s our weak point. Right back also, where Mason Holgate was filling in on loan the second half of last season, and we currently only have Allan Nyom who is quite frankly a liability.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I can’t say I’ve seen anything of QPR this summer. Obviously our home game against yourselves set a precedent for me, but you really improved last season and stayed well clear of relegation. Based on that, with a few handy additions I can see you challenging top half. Thinking about it though, I don’t even know who your manager is.
4) West Brom will finish where and why?
This is massively dependent on who we sign. Current squad, I can see us getting playoffs again at an absolute maximum. No goalscorers at all and really nothing at the back other than Hegazi. With the correct signings, and under Slav’s management, I can really see us finishing top 2. Get a goalscorer to replace Gayle, someone decent to replace Rodriguez, a winger or two and a centre back, I really think Slav can get us playing at a great level. As I say though, how we do this season is massively dependent on how we play the transfer market.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion: Fulham, Albion (hopefully), Leeds
Relegation: Blues, Barnsley, Reading
Wigan Athletic
The views of: Progress with Unity - Wigan Athletic Podcast
Twitter Link: @pwupodcast
1) After seasons of ups and downs finally Wigan are in the same league for consecutive seasons. Is the feeling that you will start to take steps forwards or will you be looking over your shoulders again?
Wigan will make steps forward this season with the help of good additions to the squad. A large number of players have left either at the end of their contract or loans have expired and therefore holes need to be plugged. Marshall has been a massive addition so far.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
Windass can be a key player this season filling Powell’s shoes. Weak link at the minute again is left back and that position is yet to be filled.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
QPR are a similar side to us. They have the potential to push on but consistency is key. Mid table will be the likely outcome for QPR.
4) Wigan will finish where and why?
Wigan will finish top half if not higher depending on the right signings. The new owners have a vision and this season is massive in that progress. Personally I’d see us promoted if everything goes right.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion, WBA, Fulham and if not Wigan, Forest maybe.
Relegated, Luton, Reading and Millwall
And that concludes the Hoops & Dreams Championship Season Preview for 2019/20
We hope you enjoyed it and hope you enjoy the season ahead!
Don't forget you can also enter our 3 free weekly prediction games simply by clicking on each of the links below:
Welcome to Part 1 of our full Championship Season Preview. Ahead of the new season we’ve been in touch with a fan from every club in The Championship asking each of them 5 questions to get their views on their own clubs, on QPR and their tips for promotion and relegation.
Part 2 covers the views of fans from the second half of teams in The Championship from Luton Town to Wigan Athletic.
Each fan has given us their input on their own clubs, on QPR and their tips for promotion and relegation. We also have a QPR perspective from our friends at our old home QPRnet.
If you missed Part 1 with the lowdown from fans of Barnsley to Leeds you can catch up on that by clicking here: SEASON PREVIEW PART 1
Please do hit reply and leave your comments and thoughts below.
Let me again express my huge gratitude to everybody who contributed their views on their clubs. You can find the details of each respondent and a direct link to their twitter account under each club heading.
If you wish to jump to a particular team just click the name below:
Luton Town
Middlesbrough
Millwall
Nottingham Forest
Preston
QPR
Reading
Sheffield Wednesday
Stoke City
Swansea
West Brom
Wigan
Here we go...
Luton Town
The views of: Hatters Talk Supporters Group
Twitter Link: @hatterstalk
1) A first season back at this level in 12 years after back to back promotions...are you concerned it is too much too soon or positive you can keep pushing on?
Not concerned at all. Since the -30 and relegation from the football league we've been run by supporters of the club in 2020. The mistakes of the past have been learned from and eradicated and having spent 5 seasons in non-league we are grounded, more professional and fully aware of what can go wrong. We are where we are now because we deserve to be, it's been no fluke. Too soon? No. It's taken 12 years to get back here! Can we compete in the Championship? Ask me again after 10 games but, I see a mid to top half finish this season.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
Key men are the new manager Graeme Jones and James Collins - if he can continue where he left off last season every keeper in the league needs to practice picking balls out of their own net!
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
To be honest, I've not looked at QPR since about 2001. Who are you again?
4) Luton will finish where and why?
Mid to top half. We'll be too good to go down but may struggle against the ex-prem sides.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Up: Fulham, Wigan, Birmingham
Down: Barnsley, Brentford, Stoke (please)
Middlesbrough
The views of: Yusuf
Twitter Link: @yusufborofan
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Middlesbrough?
I think the new management duo of Woodgate as head coach and Robbie Keane as assistant has given us all a great deal of belief. Under the pragmatic style of Pulis, it became quite boring for a number of supporters. Woodgate has come in and promised to give youth a chance as well as a more attractive style of play.
Key men are Darren Randolph in goal, who is among the best keepers in the league as well as Lewis Wing, who had his breakthrough season last season and can prove to be a very good goalscoring midfielder with the new style
2) What are your concerns for 'Boro this season?
Lack of width and creativity. We lack a lot of creativity in the final third especially out wide. We have good strikers and central midfielders but lack natural wingers. We are a team that doesn't score much and we lack the extra bit of pace that can hit teams in the counter attack.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I think the appointment of Mark Warburton was very shrewd. Losing Luke Freeman is a disappointment, but expected. However with a proven goalscorer at this level and a good centre back, I can see a safe mid table finish. The league is tight and if QPR dont add then they could struggle but clever recruitment and a good manager should help QPR have a satisfactory season
4) Middlesbrough will finish where and why?
Lots of changes and I would be delighted with a top 6 finish. We have a number of very exciting youngsters that I cant wait to see. I think we can be underestimated. The appointment of Robbie Keane, who was one of the best strikers in English football in recent history, as assistant manager can prove to be a great appointment. They type of information he can share with the strikers will be so useful as we are low goalscorers
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
It’s hard to choose now as a few signings can change the predictions below, but this is how I see it now:
Promotion? West Brom, Leeds, Fulham
Relegation? Hull, Luton, Wigan
Millwall
The views of: Micky Simpson
Twitter Link: @millwallfotb
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Millwall?
Some great new signings hopefully will make this season more interesting and pre-season has shown that the team is looking connected, well, more so then the last part of last season where we were so lucky to survive and get another go at the championship. As long as all the players give everything on the pitch then I think we can surprise the league.
Some great youth players who hopefully will be given a chance by Harris to shine in the first team this season.
2) What are your concerns for Millwall this season?
That we keep playing this predictable style of football. As long as we have a Plan B and C this year that will stop my concern.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I feel for you guys as Holloway fucked you up too just like he did with us, why people keep giving him a job is a mystery to me.
QPR will finish below us, just to wind up a few pals who support you lot.
4) Millwall will finish where and why?
Top half of the table as I reckon last season was a massive and very painful learning curve for Harris and the players. I can’t see them all wanting that level of stress again.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion:
Leeds
Middlesbrough/West Brom
Fulham
As money really talks in this league!!
Relegation:
Luton
Barnsley
Charlton
Nottingham Forest
The views of: Forest Logic
Twitter Link: @forestlogic
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Nottingham Forest?
Have to feel positive each season, starting to feel like Bill Murray after being present at our last top flight game 20 years ago. This year it’s ultimately the hope our Foreign Connection click and more importantly that even if we have a bad start, the new boss is given time to implement his ideology.
Key men - Carvalho if he can stay fit, Lolley if we can keep him in January and one of the new guys. Amoebi and or Adomah I see as posing a big threat to championship defences.
2) Another change of manager and an ever increasing squad size as each manager brings in their own players... is that a concern?
Our instability has almost become the norm, as mentioned earlier, key more than anything is that the new squad has time to gel.
The squad size is a huge concern, there’s at least 12 players who I’d be happy if we just wrote off their current deals. Too many players on big wages and lacking the ability or drive for promotion could ultimately cost us.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
You guys if I’m honest aren’t seen as a threat which could ultimately help you, if that be a surprise promotion push I’d honestly be extremely surprised or more likely a relegation scrap is anyone’s guess given this leagues inability to comply to the norm.
Personally, I predict you guys to finish 14th which, no disrespect would for me epitomise Queens Park Rangers
4) Nottingham Forest will finish where and why?
Where will we finish? Head says 9th and another season of instability and resigned to being in this damn league forever. Heart says 6th, promoted at our first visit to the new Wembley.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
3 for promotion? Us, Fulham, Leeds/Cardiff.
3 for relegation? Barnsley, Reading, Blackburn or Derby
Preston North End
The views of: PNE Pete
Twitter Link: @pne_Pete
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Preston?
Feel positive about our attacking high pressure game, we can sometimes finish the game with 4/5 strikers on the pitch...the fans love it!!
Key players:
Pearson : - had loads of messages about how good he was off United fans when we signed him. Midfield general; will play in the Premier League for sure but doubt it will be with us!!
Bodin :- fans expecting a lot from him this season, scored a peach at the weekend. Top striker out injured last season.
2) What are your concerns for Preston?
Don’t have any relegation concerns at all; our concern is always keeping hold of key players like Pearson for as long as possible.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I think QPR will finish bottom half but not relegated, not heard much about your club recently.
4) Preston will finish where and why?
5th, we’re massively underrated by others which suits us fine. We have a much better team than people think, not the best by miles but the work ethic is top notch.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion: Fulham, Cardiff, WBA
Relegation: Wigan, Reading, Luton
Queens Park Rangers
The views of: QPRnet
Twitter Link: @qprnet
1) Are you happy with the appointment of Mark Warburton?
Early days, but on face value, yes. You can see why they went for him, especially given some of the other contenders being bandied about. The looming shadow of Tactical Tim made anyone else appear more palatable!
He had a reputation for stylish football, whether that can be replicated here remains to be seen. He’s certainly trying to build a squad with that in mind rather than trying to impose that style on a squad incapable of delivering like the previous incumbent.
He seems to have decided early who he does and doesn’t fancy, Furlong and Leistner numbering amongst them. Whether he is proved correct remains to be seen.
The oft quoted “plan b is to do plan a better” mantra might be used to beat him over the head if plan a turns into a shambles!
2) How pleased are you with the transfer business done so far?
This is an odd one as there appear to be two very differing methods in play at once. We are told that they want continuity and to develop yet here we are 10 transfers in and a whole host going out.
There seems to be book balancing on a massive scale underway. Plenty of high earners released and then the news that Leistner appears to be on his way would also see another big chunk of change off the weekly wage bill.
I like the look of the three loan players. Amos in particular sounds as though he could be that box to box midfielder that is so hard to find. Barbet also looks a good signing for the proposed style that Warburton wants.
Was a shame to see Furlong go, but he appears to divide opinion, as does everyone at Rangers it seems! The sale of Freeman was inevitable and I wish them both well.
Obviously we are still desperate for a decent striker, but who isn’t!
3) Who do you see as the key men and weak links in the QPR side?
I think the key men will be whoever makes up that crew of keeper, centre backs and deep lying midfielders. They’ll be under all sorts of pressure to play from deep and take the ball under pressure against teams that will press aggressively. On the flip side they could also very well become the weak link if the plan fails!
With the wholesale changes I think it will become apparent very quickly where our strengths and weaknesses lie, at the moment though it’s tough to call.
4) QPR will finish where and why?
Unfortunately I fancy us to be bottom three. If we do extremely well we might just about stay up by the skin of our teeth.
As I said to someone on Twitter, I’ve gone from positive, to dubious and now I’m concerned. Trying to bed this many players in whilst trying to win games is going to be unbelievably tough. We can’t afford to fall out of the blocks like last season. The fans are still bearing those scars and the last thing new, young players need is a furious crowd when their trying to settle in.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion - West Brom, Cardiff, Fulham
Relegation - Us, Millwall, Reading
Reading
The views of: The Tilehurst End
Twitter Link: @thetilehurstend
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Reading?
The mood around the club is completely different to how it was this time last year. Jose Gomes and Nigel Howe, who came in during late 2018, have reenergised a squad and fanbase that had both been pretty down in the dumps under managers Jaap Stam and Paul Clement, and also CEO Ron Gourlay. The club feels much more unified and is finally pulling together in the right direction.
It’s also great to see young players being given a proper chance to shine once more, with the current figures behind the scenes keen to see a strong pathway from the academy to the first team. The lack of that had been a major concern in recent years, but bringing it back will help us to be competitive going forwards.
I expect our key men to be Liam Moore and Andy Rinomhota. The former was made captain this summer and is a true leader on the pitch, but adds so much to the side with his defensive quality and ability to play out from the back. Rinomhota on the other hand - an academy graduate - is an energetic yet composed midfielder who balances out the side really well.
2) What are your concerns for Reading this season?
The squad’s gone through a lot of change this summer, with a large number of squad members departing: loanees, players out of contract and those on the fringes who realistically were being paid more than they were worth to the manager. However, replacing them has taken time, and even if we do manage to bring in a lot of bodies before the end of the window it’ll take a while to properly integrate them.
We’re also likely to be missing quality in the final third, at least going by the lack of goals in our pre-season tour of Spain. Although the defence is strong, coming up with goals of our own might be a slow, frustrating process for the manager.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I’m not sure to be honest. You seemed to have a good thing going for you at times last season with Steve McClaren - although it didn’t pay off across the season. Going in another direction with Mark Warburton is certainly an interesting move, and could well pay off considering his previous success with Brentford.
The signings of Liam Kelly (namesake of our former midfielder) and Yoann Barbet in particular look like astute captures, but on the whole I’m not sure that you’ve got enough quality to push for the top six just yet. The key for you at the moment - as it is for many other Championship clubs - is to get some stability going and improve over the next few years. Warburton may well be the right man for the job, but he needs time.
On the whole, QPR aren’t too dissimilar to Reading. Although you were a top-end Championship side a few years ago, that status seems now to have worn off. You need to find a different way of doing things and rebuild if you’re to regain that status and ultimately push into the Premier League. Then again, as with us, a few wrong steps and you’re looking at League One.
4) Reading will finish where and why?
12th, because the club as a whole is a much healthier one than last year, so should be able to steer clear of the bottom three, but it hasn’t got enough quality to trouble the top six. Then again, I could see us finishing anywhere between sixth and 24th, depending on how the season unfolds.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promoted: Fulham, Brentford, Leeds United
Relegated: Luton Town, Wigan Athletic, Barnsley
Sheffield Wednesday
The views of: Peter A. Løhmann from the Owls About Stat Podcast
Twitter Links: @ploehmann and @owlsaboutstat
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Sheffield Wednesday?
We're in limbo at the moment; we've no idea who will be manager a week from now. But before this Newcastle nonsense positivity was definitely building with some shrewd free transfer signings (Odubajo from Brentford, Harris from Cardiff, Julian Börner from Bielefeld). The biggest hire of the Summer could be Tony Strudwick as head of the sports medicine department, though.
2) What are your concerns for Sheffield Wednesday this season?
Bruce going! Steve Bruce was focusing more on the managerial than coaching side of things for us, leaving the coaching work to his skilled assistants, and putting in place a staff and infrastructure that could move us forward. Bruce also had a clear idea about how he wanted us to play and that we need pace.
On the pitch our biggest concern is the physical frailty of the playing squad. Westwood, Bannan, Reach, Fletcher and Forestieri all stay fit for a season and play 40+ games would make a massive difference.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
Losing Freeman is a big blow, and you're in a similar spot to us in that you have paid a lot of wages to a squad that haven't done a lot. You also seem to be bereft of an identity, like us. Warburton is an interesting hire as manager, but surely also one with doubts hanging over his head. Can he get you out of what feels like an eternal period of transition?
4) Sheffield Wednesday will finish where and why?
10th. Because we have good players - but not quite good enough.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promoted: Leeds (alas!), Huddersfield, Stoke.
Relegated: Charlton, Reading, Millwall.
Stoke City
The views of: Stoke Fans Council
Twitter Link: @scfcsc
1) What went so wrong for Stoke last season? Hot favourites for promotion, big money spent, amazing squad on paper and yet a pretty woeful season... Why?
Not prepared for the requirements of the Championship. Too many players believing they were too good to play in the league. Frailties from previous season not addressed.
2) What are your concerns for Stoke this season?
Need a prolific striker to turn draws into wins.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
Geoff Cameron says you have some good youngsters, a good spirit. Think you will finish at best mid table.
4) Stoke will finish where and why?
Finish top six and get promoted. Our manager will have them ready and he demands success.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion:Stoke, Cardiff WBA.
Relegation : Wigan, Charlton, Reading.
Swansea City
The views of: Vital Swansea
Twitter Link: @vitalswansea
1) What are you feeling positive about heading into the new season and who are the key men for Swansea?
There's been plenty of positives about the new coaching setup since Steve Cooper has come in to replace Graham Potter. The football we're playing is very encouraging and it looks like he wants us to play with more intensity and pace on the attack. But like last season, there's still the feeling that we're 2-3 signings away from being a top 6 side and we're still lacking that strength in depth.
2) What are your concerns for Swansea this season?
Losing Oli McBurnie before the season starts is the main one. He's a massive player for us, scoring 22 league goals last season and we'd obviously miss that and his ability to drop deep and link up play. The other is our set piece weakness. We conceded 24 goals from set pieces last season and we really need to show a big improvement in that area this year as it cost us a fair amount of points.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
For me, there never seems to be a plan or structure in place and there's too many constant changes, without that consistency it's difficult to achieve success. The appointment of Steve McLaren was a strange one and his sacking wasn't surprising. Losing a number of players from last season as well I can't see an improvement on last season's finish.
4) Swansea will finish where and why?
Mid-table but this depends on whether McBurnie stays or not. If he does, I'd like to think we can finish in the top half but again, with a lack of strength in depth I think we'll fall short of the top 6.
5) Your 3 picks for promotion and relegation?
Promotion? Fulham, West Brom, Leeds.
Relegation? Barnsley, Charlton, Birmingham.
West Bromwich Albion
The views of: The Baggies Bible
Twitter Link: @thebaggiesbible
1) Bringing Slaven Bilic to the Championship is seen as something of a coup... are you expecting big things? Or are you concerned he is using you as a stepping stone for a bigger job again or could even walk if he doesn't get his own way?
I am and I’m not. I expect big things from Slav because he’s a great manager, but of course there’s plenty of confinement’s that he has and will face, in terms of transfers and squad, and the Championship is a very unpredictable league. I’m not concerned he is using us as a stepping stone at all as I see him as a very sincere man, a passionate manager and judging by his words upon arrival he’s passionate about the project he has undertook! I am worried however about him walking, he’s already voiced his displeasure about transfers, and as he is a straight talking manager, I don’t think he’ll take our boards messing about for too long. We just have to hope we start getting people in, or risk him walking.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
The key men I would say are Ahmed Hegazi, Kieran Gibbs and Matt Phillips, mainly Hegazi. Hegazi is our rock and undoubtedly, in my opinion, the best centre back in the Championship. Without him I honestly don’t know where we’d be. Phillips is capable of being a difference maker but is maybe too inconsistent, while Gibbs is the other end of the spectrum. Mr. Consistent, capable of getting into scoring positions and putting a great cross in, and always reliable at the back. They will be crucial for us, regardless of who we bring in.
In terms of weak links, I wouldn’t say there’s any realistically, but we certainly need to add to our ranks, especially up front. We’ve lost 46 goals in Rodriguez and Gayle, so there’s our weak point. Right back also, where Mason Holgate was filling in on loan the second half of last season, and we currently only have Allan Nyom who is quite frankly a liability.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
I can’t say I’ve seen anything of QPR this summer. Obviously our home game against yourselves set a precedent for me, but you really improved last season and stayed well clear of relegation. Based on that, with a few handy additions I can see you challenging top half. Thinking about it though, I don’t even know who your manager is.
4) West Brom will finish where and why?
This is massively dependent on who we sign. Current squad, I can see us getting playoffs again at an absolute maximum. No goalscorers at all and really nothing at the back other than Hegazi. With the correct signings, and under Slav’s management, I can really see us finishing top 2. Get a goalscorer to replace Gayle, someone decent to replace Rodriguez, a winger or two and a centre back, I really think Slav can get us playing at a great level. As I say though, how we do this season is massively dependent on how we play the transfer market.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion: Fulham, Albion (hopefully), Leeds
Relegation: Blues, Barnsley, Reading
Wigan Athletic
The views of: Progress with Unity - Wigan Athletic Podcast
Twitter Link: @pwupodcast
1) After seasons of ups and downs finally Wigan are in the same league for consecutive seasons. Is the feeling that you will start to take steps forwards or will you be looking over your shoulders again?
Wigan will make steps forward this season with the help of good additions to the squad. A large number of players have left either at the end of their contract or loans have expired and therefore holes need to be plugged. Marshall has been a massive addition so far.
2) Who are the key men and weak links in your side?
Windass can be a key player this season filling Powell’s shoes. Weak link at the minute again is left back and that position is yet to be filled.
3) From the outside looking in, what is your view on QPR right now and what would you predict for QPR this season?
QPR are a similar side to us. They have the potential to push on but consistency is key. Mid table will be the likely outcome for QPR.
4) Wigan will finish where and why?
Wigan will finish top half if not higher depending on the right signings. The new owners have a vision and this season is massive in that progress. Personally I’d see us promoted if everything goes right.
5) Your 3 picks for Promotion and Relegation?
Promotion, WBA, Fulham and if not Wigan, Forest maybe.
Relegated, Luton, Reading and Millwall
And that concludes the Hoops & Dreams Championship Season Preview for 2019/20
We hope you enjoyed it and hope you enjoy the season ahead!
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