The Coca Cola Championship

I think I'm going to follow the Coca Cola Championship a little bit more than the odd glance to see who's in the relegation zone. I dare to say the Championship may be as interesting as its been in a few years. You have the obvious story of Newcastle and their fights to say afloat. I'm on record as saying that I think it's unlikely they go back up and more likely they get relegated to the first division. It'll be interesting to see how they fare this Saturday at West Brom. I'm thinking it may not be pretty. Beyond Newcastle you also have the compelling stories of Gareth Southgate and Middlesbrough, Darren Ferguson at Peterborough, Roy Keane at Ipswich and Nigel Clough at Derby County. Can Southgate maximize the youth academy talent and keep the Boro respectable? Can Clough continue the resurgence at Derby and take them back up to the top flight two years removed from the most embarrasing top flight performance in history? Can Darren Ferguson and Peterborough make it three promotions in three years and join his old man in the top flight? Will Roy Kean and Ipswich have a magical season in memory of Sir Bobby Robson? I always thought following a team for a year in the Championship would be a great reality show or documentary series. It's a heck of a grind, a crazy forty-six league games in an utterly balanced league with a nary and easy victory for anybody. Not only are the teams fighting for relegation the players are fighting to make a name for themselves and potentially advance up to the top flight or other European leagues. Beyond that it's also the proving ground for young players coming up through the ranks or on loan. It'll be interesting.

Predictions? I think Derby County will contend but not advance. Neither West Brom, Newcastle or Middlesbrough will advance. I think Newcastle will struggle towards the bottom but not get relegated. I think Ipswich will surprise and gain advancement, along with Reading and Sheffield United.