Middlesbrough

[Codner's Wallop]

Agree, they look very strong on paper. However, expectations will also be sky-high. Boro fans will demand nothing short of automatic promotion (some may say only 'champions' will do). Opposition teams will be extra cautious and often set more defensive formations to counter Boro's attacking threat. This could prove highly frustrating.

Bringing in marquee signings creates other issues - some of the regulars from the 204/15 season will be out in the cold. This can fuel resentment and the likes of Rhodes will EXPECT a starting place.

Most recently you need only look at Derby to see a team of champions miss the play-offs. Over the past four seasons, Fulham, Wigan, Cardiff, Bolton, Blackburn, Blackpool, QPR have all fielded, on paper, superior teams to their Championship peers. And then what?

As stated earlier, Boro have a hugely impressive line-up - but is this a guarantee of promotion? History says no.

 

[Saladpack Seagull]

Not a problem - they'll be on the beach by then.

And we'll pick up the point we need to avoid the drop!

 

[deslynhamsmoustache1]

If Jordan Rhodes was really worth 14m and was the difference between promotion or not, then you'd have to ask why Blackburn have spent the last 3 seasons in the Championship without even threatening the play offs.

Ermmmm...........................How about Downing, Thomas kalas( chelsea), Jack stephens (loan from Southampton) christian Stuani , just to name a few that could just be the difference like.