Coca Cola League Championship
Brighton and Hove Albion
Last season: 4th (Division Two, Play-off winners)
Manager: Mark McGhee - Dour Scot with three promotions from Division Two to his name. Also has a record of reaching the play-offs in this division.
In: Maheta Molongo (Atletico Madrid, free)
Out: Stuart Jones, Geoff Pitcher, Mark Windsor (all released) A change of manager did not stop Brighton gaining a second promotion in three seasons last year but, as Mark McGhee will know, they were separated from by a relegation from this league in 2002-3. Brighton's ongoing wait for a new stadium restricts McGhee's budget and almost guarantees another battle against the drop, but their form at the Withdean was excellent last year. McGhee has a young team at his disposal, but they were over-reliant on Leon Knight (27 goals last year). He surely wants a target man alongside the diminutive striker.
Key Man: Leon Knight - A superb replacement for Bobby Zamora. But if he doesn't score, who does?
One to Watch: Adam Virgo - A homegrown talent, the young defender was an Albion hero in the play-offs.
Must do better: John Piercey - Only just earned himself a new contract.
Prediction: McGhee will need all his nous to prevent history repeating itself in Sussex.
Burnley
Last season: 19th
Manager: Steve Cotterill - Wilko's little helper, but had a growing reputation as a manager before his ill-advised stint at Sunderland.
In: John McGreal (Ipswich, free), Michael Duff (Cheltenham, £30,000), Micah Hyde (Watford, free), Frank Sinclair (Leicester, free), Mark Yates (Cheltenham, free), Danny Coyne (Leicester, £25,000)
Out: Glen Little (Reading, free), Paul Weller, Dean West, David May, Alan Moore, Mark McGregor (all released) Steve Cotterill inherited the League Championship's most porous defence and most threadbare squad after the end of Stan Ternent's entertaining era. Only David May of the departures was a surprise. In his place, John McGreal and Frank Sinclair should be the key men in a more organised defence, though the giant Mike Duff has come from Cotterill's former club, Cheltenham. Danny Coyne, an excellent shot-stopper, should displace Brian Jensen as first-choice keeper. Robbie Blake's 22 goals were vital last season, but since Gareth Taylor's departure Burnley have lacked a more physical centre forward to complement the more subtle talents of the new captain. It will surely be a priority for Cotterill, whose teams usually have height in attack.
Key Man: John McGreal - Burnley have conceded 166 goals in the last two league campaigns. The former Ipswich centre back is crucial if they are to improve.
One to Watch: Richard Chaplow - Talented England Under-21 midfielder who has attracted the attention, and proved beyond the budget, of Leeds.
Must do better: Micah Hyde - Frustratingly inconsistent in recent years at Watford.
Prediction: Limited resources restrict Cotterill, but mid-table should be a realistic aim.
Cardiff City
Last season: 13th
Manager: Lennie Lawrence - Veteran who led Cardiff to promotion, but polarises opinion among their demanding support.
In: Lee Bullock (York, £100,000), Scott Allison (York, free), Robert Page (Sheff Utd, free), Tony Warner (Millwall, free)
Out: Spencer Prior (released), Gavin Gordon (Notts County, free) Cardiff consolidated their First Division status last year, but more will be expected of manager Lawrence this year. Some want him to leave, but keeping Rob Earnshaw is a priority; after 26 goals last year, the Premiership must beckon soon. The arrivals of goalkeeper Tony Warner and Wales centre back Robert Page indicate that, despite Danny Gabbidon's excellence, defence was a worry for Lawrence, but Cardiff have been surprisingly low spenders so far. Captain Graham Kavanagh and Richard Langley are two gifted passing midfielders but, Paul Parry's rapid progress to the Wales squad notwithstanding, greater creativity on the flanks may be required.
Key Man: Rob Earnshaw - Obviously. A proven matchwinner and prolific goalscorer, his sale - or, worse, injury - would dent Cardiff's prospects.
One to Watch: Paul Parry - Plucked from non-league Hereford, the winger became an international within months.
Must do better: Alan Lee - Expensively acquired target man who only scored three goals last year.
Prediction: Have to aim for a top six finish, but further recruits may be required to elevate them from mid-table.
Coventry City
Last season: 12th
Manager: Peter Reid - Chirpy Scouser who is held in higher esteem within football than among supporters. Played a part in consecutive Premiership relegations, but his record in this league is excellent.
In: Stephen Hughes (Charlton, free), Bjarni Gudjonsson (VfL Bochum, free), Neil Wood (Manchester United, free), Tim Sherwood (Portsmouth, free), Louis Carey (Bristol City, free).
Out: Mo Konjic (Derby, free), Julian Joachim (Leeds, free), Michael Briscoe (Macclesfield, free), Youssef Safri (Norwich, £500,000), Pegguy Arphexad, Gavin Ward, Dean Gordon, Barry Quinn, Onandi Lowe (all released) The sacking of Eric Black at the end of last season left a bad taste, but chairman Mike McGinnity saw the appointment of Reid, a fifth manager in three years, as proof of Coventry's ambition. Tim Sherwood arrives as the new captain to bolster the midfield after Youssuf Safri's departure but with former skipper Mo Konjic leaving, the gifted Calum Davenport has a key role in the centre of defence. Not least of Black's achievements was turning Gary McSheffrey from a peripheral player to top goalscorer but finding a prolific partnership could be Reid's toughest test. Dwight Yorke is one target and it would be no surprise to see another tall striker at Highfield Road this season.
Key Man: Tim Sherwood - The captain will have a pivotal role if an inconsistent team are to mount a promotion push.
One to Watch: Calum Davenport - 21-year-old centre back with the potential to play at a higher level.
Must do better: Stephen Hughes - The left-footed midfielder has ability, but too little to show for it since leaving Arsenal.
Prediction: High expectations, but the rapid turnover of players makes predictions harder. Top six could prove beyond them.
Crewe Alexandra
Last season: 18th
Manager: Dario Gradi - Redefines the term 'long-serving'. Is there a more respected manager outside the Premiership?
In: Andy White (Mansfield, free), Ben Williams (Manchester United, free), Mark Rivers (Norwich, free)
Out: Ade Bankole, Allan Smart, Ian Jeffs (all released), David Wright (Wigan, undisclosed), Dave Brammer (Stoke, free) A fairly normal summer at Gresty Road; low-profile signings, a couple of first-team players leaving and predictions of another relegation battle. Despite a disappointing end to last season, Crewe survived, thanks in no small measure to the 34 goals contributed by converted winger Steve Jones and Dean Ashton. The latter's long-term future may lie elsewhere, but another year of Ashton would help keep Crewe competing with larger and wealthier clubs. David Wright and Dave Brammer could both be missed, but Gradi keeps unearthing talented youngsters and winger Mark Rivers is back for a second spell.
Key Man: Kenny Lunt - Brammer's departure means Lunt is the new captain and more important. His seven goals from midfield proved useful last year.
One to Watch: Billy Jones - The teenager is the latest from the Gradi production line.
Must do better: Clayton Ince - Keeper with eccentric tendencies and a battle for his place after Ben Williams' arrival.
Prediction: Survival would be yet another achievement for Gradi.
Derby County
Last season: 20th
Manager: George Burley - Former Ipswich manager in the middle of a long rebuilding job at Pride Park.
In: Morten Bisgaard (FC Copenhagen, free), Mo Konjic (Coventry, free), Tommy Smith (Sunderland, free), Inigo Idiakez (free).
Out: Chris Palmer (Notts County, free), Youl Mawene, Manel, Jimmy Turner (all released), Lewis Hunt (Southend, free). George Burley halted the fall and fall of Derby County, but only just. Without Paul Peschisolido's end-of-season goals, it could have been a different story. No forward scored more than six goals last season. The signing of Peschisolido in March and now Tommy Smith, plus the return to fitness of Junior gives Burley options, but one must prove prolific. Ian Taylor top-scored with 11 and he is joined in midfield by Dane Morten Bisgaard while Mo Konjic's signing means Burley now has an experienced defence. Tom Huddlestone, Lee Grant and Pablo Mills are among a promising crop of younger players, but youth may have been a cause of an awful away record last year.
Key Man: Tommy Smith - Often impresses with his pace and persistence, but goals are Derby's prime requirement.
One to Watch: Tom Huddlestone - Central midfielder or centre back and a first-team regular at 16. A future England international?
Must do better: Paul Boertien - Needs to become a first-team regular soon.
Prediction: Should steer clear of the relegation battle. Anything above mid-table would be a bonus.
Gillingham
Last season: 21st Player-
Manager: Andy Hessenthaler - Tenacious midfielder playing on into his 40th year. Has kept Gillingham up for four years but it was a close shave last season.
In: Iwan Roberts (Norwich, free), Darren Byfield (Sunderland, free).
Out: Kevin James (Nottingham Forest, free), Rod Wallace (released) Gillingham flirted with relegation last year and are among the favourites to go down this time, but the unfashionable Gills have been written off for each of the last four seasons. Though the highly-rated midfielder Danny Spiller has stayed, Gillingham had problems in attack. They have yet to properly replace Marlon King, but the signings of Iwan Roberts and Darren Byfield mean Hessenthaler now has seven strikers to choose from. No one started 35 league games last year and Gillingham lost half their league games; greater consistency, both from individuals and the team, is essential.
Key Man: Darren Byfield - A regular goalscorer is essential.
One to Watch: Danny Spiller - Has reportedly caught the eye of Premiership scouts.
Must do better: Tommy Johnson - Three goals was a meagre return from the former Aston Villa and Celtic forward, though injuries didn't help.
Prediction: Another battle against the drop.
Ipswich Town
Position: 5thManager: Joe Royle - Wealthier after his court case against Manchester City, but still producing an entertaining team in East Anglia.
In: Jason de Vos (Wigan, free), Kevin Horlock (West Ham, free), Justin Hoyte (Arsenal, season-long loan).
Out: John McGreal (Burnley, out of contract), Alun Armstrong, Chris-Bart Williams (both released), Marcus Bent (Everton, £450,000), Jermaine Wright (Leeds, out of contract), Chris Makin (out of contract) After another summer of cost-cutting at Portman Road, manager Joe Royle will be even more dependent on the club's superb youth policy. Ian Westlake emerged to become a key player last year; Dean Bowditch, already with a first-team hat-trick to his name, could be next. No team scored more goals than Ipswich last year and with a choice of two from Bowditch, Darren Bent, Shefki Kuqi and Pablo Counago in attack, they should be near the top of the scoring charts again. But the Tractor Boys conceded 72 and Jason de Vos, recently in a rather superior Wigan back four, has an important role in shoring up the worst defence outside the bottom six last year. Kevin Horlock, who played for Royle at City, is a rare tackling midfielder at the club and if Ipswich can get the balance between defence and attack right, they will be hard to beat.
Key Man: Jason de Vos - Surely promotion is impossible unless the defence improves.
One to Watch: Ian Westlake - Left-sided midfielder who was Player of the Year last season.
Must do better: Drissa Diallo - Though that comment could apply to other defenders, too.
Prediction: Should be in the top six again.
Leeds United
Last season: 19th (Premiership)
Manager: Kevin Blackwell - Former assistant to Neil Warnock and Peter Reid. This season may show what he's learned from them.
In: Julian Joachim (Coventry, free), Danny Pugh (Manchester United, free), Paul Butler (Wolves, free), Clarke Carlisle (QPR, free), Michael Ricketts (Middlesbrough, free), Jermaine Wright (Ipswich, free), Matthew Spring (Luton, free), Danny Cadamarteri (Bradford, free), Brian Deane (West Ham, free).
Out: Alan Smith (Manchester United, £7 million), Paul Robinson (Tottenham, £1.5 million), Michael Bridges (Bolton, free), Jason Wilcox (Leicester, free), Mark Viduka (Middlesbrough, £4.5 million), Ian Harte (Levante, free), Nick Barmby (Hull, free), Stephen McPhail (Barnsley, free), James Milner (Newcastle, £3.6 million), Dominic Matteo (Blackburn, free), David Batty (retired), Danny Mills (Manchester City, free). All change at Elland Road where new manager Kevin Blackwell has to forge a team from an assortment of free transfers. To compound his problems, two of the few surviving players, Eirik Bakke and Seth Johnson, are long-term injury absentees. Blackwell fought to keep Michael Duberry and central defence looks an area of strength for Leeds with the promising Clarke Carlisle, club captain Lucas Radebe and Paul Butler, twice promoted from this league. But he is short of midfielders, so it is imperative that Jermaine Wright and Matthew Spring make an impact while trialist Chris Bart-Williams would be a useful signing. Of the four new strikers, Julian Joachim, with just eight goals, fared best last year. Brian Deane is back for a second spell but Michael Ricketts has most potential, and most to prove.
Key Man: Michael Ricketts - Just four goals for Middlesbrough, but made a major contribution when Bolton were promoted three years ago.
One to Watch: Scott Carson - England Under-21 keeper who will be first choice now Paul Robinson's gone.
Must do better: Danny Cadamarteri - How many more poor seasons can he have?
Prediction: Anything could happen but consistency will be difficult with a new team. A season of consolidation could beckon.
Leicester City
Last season: 18th (Premiership)
Manager: Micky Adams - Affable promotion specialist who emerged with his dignity intact last year despite relegation and problems at La Manga.
In: Dion Dublin (Aston Villa, free), Gareth Williams (Nottingham Forest, tribunal), Jason Wilcox (Leeds, free), Danny Tiatto (Manchester City, free), Martin Keown (Arsenal, free), David Connolly (West Ham, £500,000), Kevin Pressman (Sheffield Wednesday, free), Joey Gudjonsson (Real Betis, free).
Out: Muzzy Izzet (Birmingham, out of contract), Riccardo Scimeca (West Brom, £100,000), Paul Dickov (Blackburn, £150,000), Ben Thatcher (Man City, £100,000), Frank Sinclair (Burnley, free), Billy McKinlay (Fulham, free), Tom Williamson, Craig Hignett, Steffen Freund, Nicolas Priet, Paul Murphy (all released), Junior Lewis (Hull, free), Alan Rogers, Andy Impey (both Nottingham Forest), Paul Brooker (Reading, free), Callum Davidson (Preston, free), Les Ferdinand (Bolton, free), Danny Coyne (Burnley, £25,000). Apart from Leeds, few clubs have been busier this summer than Leicester as relegation proved the prelude to an exodus. Muzzy Izzet, in particular, will be missed and much rests on Gareth Williams' ability to replace him in the centre of midfield. Manager Micky Adams' faith in experience and commitment is evident in this summer's arrivals. Martin Keown may contribute to another poor disciplinary record, but he and Nikos Dabizas look a formidable centre back partnership. Dion Dublin and David Connolly should be among the League Championship's most prolific partnerships and, as Adams' style of play is well-suited to this division, they start among the favourites for promotion.
Key Man: David Connolly - Underachieved at West Ham last season. Could get 20 goals this.
One to Watch: Peter Canero - The Scot was a fringe player last time, but has a chance to establish himself in the team.
Must do better: Keith Gillespie - Hardly covered himself in glory last season, but could be among the division's most feared wingers.
Prediction: Tough to beat and with plenty of goalscorers, they are potential champions.
Millwall
Last season: 10th Player-
Manager: Dennis Wise - Poacher turned gamekeeper who reached the FA Cup final in his first season in management.
In: Jody Morris (Rotherham, free), Graham Stack (Arsenal, season-long loan)
Out: Kevin Braniff (Rushden, loan), John Sutton (Dundee, season-long loan), Abou Fofana, Stuart Nethercott, Ronnie Bull (all released), Tony Warner (Cardiff, out of contract), Robbie Ryan (Bristol Rovers, out of contract), Tim Cahill (Everton, £2 million). The FA Cup rather distracted Millwall from a play-off push last season, but early season involvement in the UEFA Cup should not do now. However, Dennis Wise is yet to spend the proceeds of the cup run or the sale of Tim Cahill. Jody Morris, running out of chances, has signed to either partner or replace Wise, but Cahill scored 12 goals last season and without him, there is more onus on strikers Neil Harris and Daniele Dichio. Millwall's youth system rivals any outside the Premiership - midfielders Peter Sweeney and Curtis Weston could make an impact - but their promotion prospects surely depend on who Wise signs.
Key Man: Paul Ifill - Without Cahill, Millwall will rely on his pace and creativity on the right wing.
One to Watch: Peter Sweeney - Scotland Under-21 winger who broke into the team last year.
Must do better: Jody Morris - His on-field performances have been overshadowed by his off-field antics, but had the ability to become a regular member of Gianluca Vialli's Chelsea side.
Prediction: Rarely lose at home, but need more attacking threat to escape from mid-table.
Nottingham Forest
Last season: 14th
Manager: Joe Kinnear - Not the most popular choice, but steered Forest clear of relegation and boasts an excellent record.
In: Kevin James (Gillingham, out of contract), Andy Impey, Alan Rogers (both Leicester, free), Kris Commons (Stoke, tribunal), Paul Gerrard (Everton, free)
Out: Gareth Williams (Leicester, tribunal), Andy Haskins, Matt Bodkin, Pascal Formann, Scott Tynan, Danny Sonner (all released), Des Walker (retired) Joe Kinnear may not be nurtured in the traditions of Nottingham Forest as his predecessor Paul Hart was, but a change of approach proved necessary last season. The former Wimbledon manager reverted to 4-4-2, priced Andy Reid out of a move and got Forest winning. Alan Rogers and Andy Impey, who brought width and experience in their loan spells, have now complete permanent moves from Leicester but the departure of Gareth Williams in the opposite direction is a blow. Hart's talented youngsters form much of the defence though Michael Dawson's injury is a worry. But if Kinnear can get his misfiring strikers scoring again, Forest should be in the play-off picture.
Key Man: David Johnson - Injuries limited him to 10 starts last season. The quick striker's fitness is crucial.
One to Watch: Kris Commons - Gifted left-footed midfielder who Kinnear has snatched from Stoke.
Must do better: Marlon King - Just five goals in 24 games last season was a poor return.
Prediction: Genuine contenders for a play-off place.
Plymouth Argyle
Last season: 1st (Division Two)
Manager: Bobby Williamson - Continuing a tradition of portly Scots at Home Park.
In: Stevie Crawford (Dunfermline, out of contract), Matthias Doumbe (Hibernian, out of contract), Lee Makel (Livingston, out of contract), Steven Milne (Dundee, out of contract), Keith Lasley (Motherwell, out of contract)
Out: Jason Bent (released), Matt Villis (Torquay, season-long loan) The geographically impaired could be forgiven for thinking Plymouth was a border town. Consecutive Scottish managers and five signings from the SPL have made the long trek down to Devon. Excellent defence and the ability to find goals from all over the team played their part in a second promotion in three years, but the veterans of Paul Sturrock's Division Three team need to prove themselves in a higher division again. Frenchman David Friio top-scored from midfield last year but the signing of Scotland international Stevie Crawford is an indication that Argyle require more from their forwards to prosper in the League Championship.
Key Man: Stevie Crawford - A reliance on Friio and centre backs Graham Coughlan and Paul Wotton for goals could prove dangerous.
One to Watch: Luke McCormick - 20-year-old keeper who frustrated many Second Division strikers.
Must do better: No obvious candidates, but more goals from Ian Stonebridge would help keep him in the team.
Prediction: Will aim to consolidate, but the higher standard may prove tough for the new manager.
Preston North End
Last season: 15th
Manager: Craig Brown - Former Scotland manager who has yet to deliver on the expected play-off push.
In: Andy Smith (Glentoran, £130,000), Callum Davidson (Leicester, free)
Out: Michael Jackson (Tranmere, free), Michael Keane (Hull, £50,000), David Lucas (Sheffield Wednesday, free), Lee Briscoe (released), Rob Edwards (Blackpool, free), George Koumantarakis (released) The collapse of Ricardo Fuller's move to Portsmouth could prove a blessing in disguise for Preston. He and David Healy contributed 32 goals last year but keeping the quick Jamaican will only ensure Preston are not in any trouble this year if his knee problem allows him to play.. But despite their ability in attack, Preston were not consistent enough last year and struggled away from Deepdale. Conceding 71 goals hardly helped and despite the signing of left back Callum Davidson, Brown may want further reinforcements at the back. The powerful Dixon Etuhu will again be the key man in midfield and when he, and Preston, play well, there are few better teams in the division. But without a challenge for a top six place, there could be changes.
Key Man: Chris Lucketti - The captain will be of paramount importance if Preston are to concede fewer goals.
One to Watch: Andy Smith - Plucked from Glentoran, how will he fare at a higher standard?
Must do better: Richard Cresswell - Just two goals last season.
Prediction: Probably in mid-table again.
Queens Park Rangers
Last season: 2nd (Division 2)
Manager: Ian Holloway - Incomparable in his mangling of the English language, but three seasons of building at Loftus Road resulted in promotion last year.
In: Lee Cook (Watford, out of contract, tribunal), Georges Santos (Ipswich, free).
Out: Clarke Carlisle (Leeds, out of contract), Steve Palmer (MK Dons, free), Dennis Oli, Richard Pacquette, Ben Walshe, Terrell Forbes (all released) QPR have been surprisingly quiet in the transfer market this summer, which should dampen expectations but reflects on the consistent progress under Ian Holloway. But the departure of Clarke Carlisle robs Rangers of perhaps their best centre back and while strikers Paul Furlong and Kevin Gallen have scored regularly at Premiership and First Division level, that was several years ago. However, Holloway has forged a resolute side who went through last season unbeaten at home. Survival should be on the agenda but, for the first time in several years, none of the promoted teams look plausible play-off candidates.
Key Man: Martin Rowlands - The winger excelled last year and should trouble Championship left backs.
One to Watch: Lee Cook - Left winger who has signed permanently after a loan spell at Loftus Road.
Must do better: Jamie Cureton - Are his days as a prolific goalscorer consigned to the past?
Prediction: Should stay up, but a top-half finish may prove beyond them.
Reading
Last season: 9th
Manager: Steve Coppell - May never be given a top-flight job again but his record in the lower divisions is outstanding.
In: Glen Little (Burnley, out of contract), Paul Brooker (Leicester, free), Ibrahima Sonko (Brentford, free), Bobby Convey (MLS, undisclosed fee).
Out: Jamie Ashdown (Portsmouth, free), Andre Boucaud (Peterborough, free), Joe Gamble (released), Kelvin Jack (released), John Salako (Brentford, free), Kevin Watson (Colchester, free), Andre Fashanu (released), Steve Brown (retired). Reading came within three points of a second successive play-off place last year and Steve Coppell is starting to shape his own team at the Madejski Stadium. Particularly eye-catching are the signings of two wingers. Scott Murray did not live up to expectations last year, hence the move for Glen Little. His strikers should be appreciative. Nicky Forster and Shaun Goater did not really form a partnership last year, but both offer the promise of goals. Coppell has never been afraid to raid the lower divisions and Dave Kitson made a promising start. Keeping the highly-rated central midfielder Steven Sidwell is essential but, if Coppell can find the right blend in the centre of defence, another top six finish is possible.
Key Man: Glen Little - Already established as one of the best right wingers in the League Championship, but now has to prove himself at a new club.
One to Watch: Dave Kitson - Prospered in non-league and Division 3 and started well in the higher league.
Must do better: Bas Savage - Yet to really convince.
Prediction: Will be in or around the play-off places.
Rotherham United
Last season: 17th
Manager: Ronnie Moore - The prime reason for two promotions and three successful battles against relegation.
In: Robbie Stockdale (Middlesbrough, free), Phil Gilchrist (West Brom, free), Paolo Vernazza (Watford, free), Paul McLaren (Sheffield Wednesday, free).
Out: Guy Branston (Sheffield Wednesday, free), Julien Baudet (Notts County, free) A summer of failed takeovers has made manager Moore's job even more difficult, but he has signed two defenders Phil Gilchrist and Robbie Stockdale who were previously on loan at Millmoor. Jody Morris' brief spell at Rotherham ended but Paolo Vernazza is another passing midfielder who could benefit from a second chance. Striker Martin Butler did, and his 15 goals were a major reason why Rotherham stayed up last year. But with the former Reading man is out for six months and the absence of a regular goalscorer could be Rotherham's Achilles heel. Rotherham's height and organisation makes them hard to play against but Moore has seen little of the £1 million from Alan Lee's sale last year and anywhere outside the bottom three would be an achievement again for a small squad.
Key Man: Michael Proctor With Butler out, it's time for him to be more clinical in front of goal.
One to Watch: Paolo Vernazza - Time for a talented player to deliver.
Must do better: Andy Monkhouse - The winger was in and out of the team last year.
Prediction: Could be in trouble, but Moore has a habit of beating the drop.
Sheffield United
Last season: 8th
Manager: Neil Warnock - A target for opposition fans across the country, but revels in his notoriety.
In: Jon Harley (Fulham, out of contract), Barry Hayles (Fulham, out of contract), Alan Quinn, Leigh Bromby (both Sheffield Wednesday, free), Andy Liddell (Wigan, out of contract), Phil Barnes (Blackpool, free), Paul Thirlwell (Sunderland, free).
Out: Mark Rankine (Tranmere, free), Mike Whitlow (released), Colin Cryan (Scarborough, free), Danny Wood, Kristian Rogers (both released), Wayne Allison (Chesterfield, free), Robert Page (Cardiff, free), Andy Parkinson (Grimsby, free) Sheffield United's reliance on Michael Brown became apparent last year as, when the midfielder left, they missed out on a play-off place. Brown was the only man in the Warnock era to get 20 goals in a season, but there is finally hope of a prolific scorer. Barry Hayles, signed from Fulham, and Andy Gray (nine goals in 14 games for the Blades) spearhead perhaps Warnock's strongest attack after a summer of astute acquisitions. Midfielder Alan Quinn and defender Leigh Bromby have both made the move across Sheffield as Warnock continues to plunder the other Yorkshire clubs. Warnock let captain Robert Page go in a cull of the older players while keeping Michael Tonge and Phil Jagielka and that bodes well in the search for that elusive promotion.
Key Man: Barry Hayles - Should relish a key role in the Blades team.
One to Watch: Leigh Bromby - Highly-rated young centre back who lost his way at Wednesday.
Must do better: Jon Harley - Spectacular goals are great, but he is yet to realise his potential the rest of the time.
Prediction: Should compete for a top two finish, though play-offs may be more realistic.
Stoke City
Last season: 11th
Manager: Tony Pulis - Quietly steered Stoke into the top half of the table last year.
In: Dave Brammer (Crewe, free), Steve Simonsen (Everton, free)
Out: Peter Hoekstra (released) Jermaine Palmer, Richard Keogh (Vikingur loan), Neil Cutler (Stockport, free), Kris Commons (Nottingham Forest, tribunal), Gareth Owen (Torquay, loan) Perhaps obscured by the rarity value of Ade Akinbiyi becoming an important member of a team, Stoke's achievements in 2003-4 largely escaped attention. Tony Pulis' side were more effective than pretty but the majority of his signings and succeeded and persuading midfielder Dave Brammer to move from Crewe is another coup. A shortage of creativity may hamper Stoke, but their height and set-pieces will cause opponents problems.
Key Man: Gerry Taggart - Stoke had a superb record in his loan spell last year.
One to Watch: John Halls - Unable to get into the Arsenal team, but started his Stoke career well.
Must do better: Paul Williams - Taggart made the impact Pulis was hoping Williams would.
Prediction: May lack the quality to get above mid-table, but should stay up comfortably.
Sunderland
Last season: 3rd
Manager: Mick McCarthy - Excelling in adversity on Wearside.
In: Dean Whitehead (Oxford, out of contract, tribunal), Carl Robinson (Portsmouth, undisclosed), Stephen Elliott (Manchester City, out of contract), Liam Lawrence (Mansfield, out of contract), Stephen Caldwell (Newcastle, out of contract)
Out: Tommy Smith (Derby, free), Paul Thirlwell (Sheffield United, free), Phil Babb, Michael Reddy, Mark Rossiter, Jason McAteer, Joachim Bjorklund (all released), Simon Ramsden (Grimsby, free), Patrick Collins (Sheff Wed, free), Darren Byfield (Gillingham, free). Another summer, another clear-out of the big earners at the Stadium of Light and Mick McCarthy's low-profile signings may not inspire optimism especially as Liam Lawrence, so influential at Mansfield, is injured already. McCarthy rotated four strikers last year but Marcus Stewart and the much-maligned Kevin Kyle are the only two left at the club. They need to remain fit, as do Julio Arca and Sean Thornton, two of the few inventive players in McCarthy's squad. But Sunderland proved very effective at grinding out results and they need to again if they are to repeat their success of last season. An excellent home record should stand them in good stead again.
Key Man: Julio Arca - Keeping the Argentinian is Sunderland's major achievement this summer.
One to Watch: Liam Lawrence - A jump of two divisions for the midfielder, but Sunderland beat several other teams to sign him.
Must do better: Sean Thornton - With his ability, he should be among the first names on the team sheet.
Prediction: Should be contenders again, but the loss of key players could prove decisive.
Watford
Last season: 16th
Manager: Ray Lewington - Two satisfactory seasons in a difficult job, but the third could be harder still.
In: Brynjar Gunnarsson (Nottingham Forest, free), Andy Ferrell (Newcastle, free)
Out: Jerel Ifil (Swindon, £70,000), Paolo Vernazza (Rotherham, out of contract), Micah Hyde (Burnley, free), Simon Patterson, Elliott Godfrey, Sam Swonnell, Steve Graham (all released), Lee Cook (QPR, out of contract, tribunal), Wayne Brown (Colchester, free) Watford continue to pay the price for their spending in the two years after relegation from the Premiership. Four regulars in the squad last year have gone - as well as on-loan goalkeeper Lenny Pidgley - and only two players have been signed, with midfielder Andy Ferrell untried at first-team level. But Brynjar Gunnarsson should add steel to the midfield, but the loss of Lee Cook makes right winger Paul Devlin more important. An experienced defence - where Sean Dyche replaces Neil Cox as captain - offers more cause for optimism. Youngster Scott Fitzgerald's goals helped Watford recover from a poor start last year, but if their home form slips or injuries affect a small squad, they may not escape again.
Key Man: Brynjar Gunnarsson - So many midfielders have left Vicarage Road in the last two years; he needs to succeed.
One to Watch: Anthony McNamee - The winger could be the man to benefit from Cook's departure.
Must do better: Bruce Dyer - Three goals last season was disappointing, to say the least.
Prediction: Likely to be among the strugglers.
West Ham United
Last season: 4th
Manager: Alan Pardew - Habitual play-off loser aiming for automatic promotion.
In: Jimmy Walker (Walsall), Teddy Sheringham (Portsmouth, free), Sergei Rebrov (Tottenham, free).
Out: Rob Lee, Brian Deane, Daryl McMahon, David Forde, Shaun Byrne (all released), Kevin Horlock (Ipswich, free), David Connolly (Leicester, £500,000). Much will be expected after Alan Pardew's first summer and pre-season in charge of West Ham; two prominent departures were players signed by his predecessor Glenn Roeder last year, though they may regret letting Kevin Horlock and David Connolly join possible promotion rivals. Pardew has managed - so far- to keep Crystal Palace targets Michael Carrick and Marlon Harewood. The role of the latter, after he was forced to play right midfield last season, could be crucial. Harewood's pace and eye for goal made him one of the division's best strikers but the signings of Teddy Sheringham and Sergei Rebrov may not bode well for him. The latter, though, could be West Ham's wild card after his Tottenham nightmare. West Ham's defensive problems and propensity to lose a lead cost them last season, but if Pardew can find remedies, they have the talent to finish in the top two.
Key Man: Michael Carrick - Needs to dominate the midfield more often.
One to Watch: Nigel Reo-Coker - Signed from Wimbledon last season, the midfielder has a chance to hold down a regular place.
Must do better: Tomas Repka - An obvious scapegoat, but he and Christian Dailly cost West Ham goals.
Prediction: Possible champions who might be disappointed with a play-off place.
Wigan Athletic
Last season: 7th
Manager: Paul Jewell - One of Wigan's most successful strikers, now their most successful manager.
In: David Graham (Torquay, £215,000), David Wright (Crewe, undisclosed), Per Frandsen (Bolton, free)
Out: Jason de Vos (Ipswich, out of contract), Andy Liddell (Sheffield United, out of contract) No side outside the top two had a better defensive record than Wigan last year, but this season may reveal how important Jason de Vos was to their back four. A centre back may be on Paul Jewell's shopping list and he has spent little so far this summer. But David Graham comes in to understudy strikers Nathan Ellington and Jason Roberts, who each offer pace and a physical presence, though the latter is not always clinical enough. The last campaign showed that several Wigan players - Jimmy Bullard in particular - could step up to a higher division, while Per Frandsen has proved himself in the Premiership. Manager Jewell was in no rush to buy last year, but it may take further investment for them to break into the top six.
Key Man: Nathan Ellington - 18 goals last year for the former Bristol Rovers man.
One to Watch: David Graham - Paul Jewell gambled on the Torquay forward, but he did superbly in Division Three.
Must do better: Tony Dinning - In and out of the team for a couple of years.
Prediction: In or around the play-offs again.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Last season: 20th (Premiership)
Manager: Dave Jones - Took Wolves up two seasons ago, but straight back down again. His board have backed him, though.
In: Rob Edwards (Aston Villa, £150,000)
Out: Paul Butler (Leeds, free), Denis Irwin (retired), Alex Rae (Rangers, out of contract), Nathan Blake, Steffen Iversen, Oleg Luzhny, Isaac Okoronkwo (all released), JJ Melligan (Cheltenham, £25,000), Henri Camara (Celtic, season-long loan). Dave Jones couldn't kick-start Wolves' Premiership campaign until it was too late, and Henri Camara, symptomatic of their early struggles, may have destabilised them this summer with his long and eventually successful quest to leave. On the plus side, young goalkeeper Matt Murray and centre back Jolean Lescott, who played one game between them last year, are fit to return. Captain Paul Ince has also opted to play on but Alex Rae, their best player last year, is the most significant of eight departures. Too many signings failed last year but Carl Cort's five end-of-season goals provided hope and Kenny Miller, Mark Kennedy and Colin Cameron return to a league they have excelled in before.
Key Man: Paul Ince - Wolves' driving force and still more important without Rae.
One to Watch: Jolean Lescott - Can he recapture his best form on his return to fitness?
Must do better: Kenny Miller - Scored a winner against Manchester United, but only one other goal in 24 Premiership games.
Prediction: Will expect promotion, but the extent of their relegation hangover could hamper that. May end up battling for a play-off place.
