Boro and Luton will give you a good run for your money

Last season’s Championship looked one of the strongest for years and all three promoted sides to the Premier League have a decent chance of survival.

 

However, the trio that fell through the Premier League trap door in May – QPR, Hull and Burnley – look to have plenty on their plates.

 

Sportingbet can’t split Derby and Middlesbrough, both 6/1 shots at the head of the market, and they look like the right market leaders.

 

The Rams have made some astute signings over the past few months and their squad looks strong.

 

They were a little unlucky with injuries last term and they hold very solid claims. However, Paul Clement is taking on his first managerial role, which is going to be a big test for him.

 

Middlesbrough are marginally preferred with Stewart Downing an excellent addition, while Diego Fabbrini is a strong loan signing.

 

The main worry is the loss of striker Patrick Bamford after his loan spell, but Boro should have enough to get over the heartbreak of last season’s play-off final defeat to Norwich.

 

I’m going to leave League One alone and focus on League Two for my other tip as John Still’s Luton have a decent chance of doing much better than last year’s eighth place finish.

 

The Hatters have been splashing the cash this summer and the arrival of Craig Mackail-Smith could be a stroke of genius by Still.

 

Mackail-Smith has been plying his trade at a much higher level than this so, if he can stay injury-free, he could be firing in the goals week in, week out in this division.

 

Luton have been well-backed all summer and are now a best-priced 13/2 with Betway and Sportingbet.

 

However, a better option might be to buy their points at 76 with Sporting Index. They finished with 68 last season and with a much better squad there seems little downside.