It’s the toughest season to predict as the biggest clubs don’t appear to have recruited well, while the smaller clubs will be relying more heavily than usual on loan players given the perilous state of finances in the lower divisions.
Posh seem well equipped to go well again if they can replace Ivan Toney adequately, but how well?
Here is my predicted finishing order for the 2020-21 season.
17.
8th BLACKPOOL: There’s confidence by the seaside under former Liverpool youth manager Neil Critchley and because of a more stable financial background which has enabled Pool to sign several players like gifted midfielder Keshi Anderson (pictured). I'm not convinced they're good enough for the top six, unless Jurgen Klopp's Midas touch has rubbed off on Critchley. Photo: Midlands
18.
7th CHARLTON ATHLETIC: The off-field turmoil has continued at the Valley much to the annoyance of up-and-coming manager Lee Bowyer (pictured) for whom turmoil used to an on-field tactic. A tough one to call, but ‘the Addicks’ can’t be backed with too much confidence as their squad doesn’t look deep enough. I suspect Posh have had the best half a season anyone is going to get out of new signing Conor Washington. Photo: Worthing
19.
6th: SUNDERLAND: Sort the ownership situation out at the Stadium of Light and there would be little to stop Sunderland at this level. There are signs of life on the transfer front, but not enough to suggest celebrations in the North East come May. Manager Phil Parkinson (pictured) has struggled to move with the times, but they’ll be up there. Photo: Worthing
20.
5th PORTSMOUTH: There’s a feeling among many at Fratton Park that manager Kenny Jackett (pictured) is yesterday’s man, but it’s hard to see Pompey not challenging for promotion and not finishing in the top six as they have pretty much kept last season’s squad together . They will be organised and they only have to improve their away performances slightly to finish in the top two. Photo: Worthing