The Championship season is finally upon us, and for Hull City, attention turns to matters on the pitch after another crazy summer. The Tigers ended last season with a nerve-shredding final-day escape at Portsmouth, but fans will hope new manager Sergej Jakirovic can spark a positive campaign following a busy transfer window.
However, not all pundits are optimistic about Hull's chances. One Championship writer has tipped the Tigers for relegation, citing the needless sacking of a promising manager for the second summer in succession. Hull narrowly avoided the drop last season, and concerns remain over their ability to stay afloat again.
At the other end of the table, Ipswich Town and Coventry City are tipped for automatic promotion, with Ipswich described as 'comfortably the strongest team in the league'. Coventry, under Frank Lampard, are seen as a surprise package with a balanced squad that could challenge for second place.
Birmingham City, promoted from League One, are expected to make an immediate impact. The Blues have recruited strongly, adding proven performers like Bright Osayi-Samuel, Tommy Doyle, and Demarai Gray. One reporter predicts they will finish fourth and win the play-offs, with Paik Seung-ho highlighted as a player to watch.
Leicester City, Southampton, and Sheffield United are also tipped for play-off contention, while Sheffield Wednesday, Hull City, and Blackburn Rovers are predicted for relegation. Blackburn have lost key players and shopped overseas for replacements, leading to fears they will drop down the table.
