A new season is supposed to be about renewed hope and optimism, a fresh campaign opening up a world of possibilities, a clean slate. But with the English Football League due to kick off on Friday night when Wolves host Blackburn in the Championship, the sense of rejuvenation is not universal.
The lineup of Championship teams this season is fearsome. Wolves and West Ham, hitherto established Premier League clubs, have dropped into the second tier. Others such as Burnley, Middlesbrough and Southampton anticipate a promotion push. So perhaps supporters of those who are not enjoying parachute payment riches and squads still packed with top-flight talent are wise to feel cautious. Some fear a long slog of a season to come.
