League One season review

After five years of seeing pre-season optimism fade away into increasing depths of mediocrity, supporters of Sheffield United awaited 2016-17 with bated breath as their side again approached a campaign as favourites for promotion under another highly regarded new manager. This time it was self-confessed Blades fan Chris Wilder who took over the reins following the bitterly disappointing tenure of Nigel Adkins. Fresh from leading Northampton Town to a storming League Two title success, Wilder soon introduced a 3-4-3 formation, which would eventually turn out to be the most effective…

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Championship Season Review – Charlton, Derby, Fulham, Huddersfield

Charlton Athletic: 22nd (relegated) A season which began in encouraging fashion soon became one to forget as Charlton descended into turmoil, suffering relegation to the third tier after four seasons back in the Championship. It was never in doubt once the downward spiral began, with results on the pitch eventually marred by the sheer weight of protests towards the club’s Belgian owners. After a mid-table finish in 2015 there was optimism around in South London and that was enhanced by an opening day victory over Queens Park Rangers. Further positive results…

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Championship season review: Charlton, Derby, Fulham, Huddersfield

Charlton Athletic: 12th The Addicks were one of the favourites to struggle, having needed a late upturn in results to avoid the drop in 2014. The man who masterminded that escape was not kept on, as Jose Riga made way for fellow Belgian Bob Peeters, who took his first managerial job in England. And in the early weeks they were the surprise package, with dynamic striker Igor Vetokele grabbing the goals that had been so elusive the previous season to secure home wins over Wigan Athletic and Derby County. High-flying…

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