Promotion contenders
This time last year Derby County were hurriedly trying to put pieces together after a much-needed takeover and, although relief ultimately turned to disappointment after missing out on the playoffs on the final day, a tilt at the title looks a distinct possibility. Sonny Bradley, club captain at Luton last season, Curtis Nelson and Callum Elder are fine acquisitions in defence and Paul Warne’s side should be hard to beat. Portsmouth had the makings of a fine team but also fell short last season so after a busy summer – with 11 new faces, including Regan Poole from Lincoln – they look well-placed to challenge.
