NOTTINGHAM FOREST VS MILLWALL (SATURDAY, 4:45AM AEST)

The big talking point: Milllwall make a return to the Championship after a two-year absence. After overcoming Bradford in the League One Playoff Final, The Lions will look to get off to a good start against Nottingham Forest. Following the loss of Britt Assombalonga to Middlesbrough, Forest may have to look elsewhere for their attacking threat.

What will happen: Milllwall will dominate the opening exchanges but a revitalized Nottingham Forest will prevail over the 90 minutes as new signing, Daryl Murphy makes his competitive debut for Forest.

What won’t happen: A solid performance from Jamie Ward. The Forest winger will be out of action for about 6 weeks with a calf injury.

 

SUNDERLAND VS DERBY COUNTY (SATURDAY, 4:45AM AEST)

The big talking point: After relegation from the Premier League, Sunderland drop down to the Championship and face a stern test from a strong Championship side in Derby County. After last season’s poor showing in the Premier League, Sunderland have a lot to prove if they want to show any signs of returning to the promised land anytime soon.

What will happen: Sunderland will begin where they left off last season. Despite the arrival of new manager Simon Grayson from Preston North End, Sunderland fans shouldn’t be expecting too much from their side this season. The Black Cats will struggle, while promotion hopefuls Derby will look to teach the newcomers what Championship football is all about.

What won’t happen: Sunderland keeping a clean sheet. Their backline is yet to be addressed as they come into the new season. After a dismal season in the top flight, early signs don’t look any better for the Black Cats and they’ll struggle to contain Derby’s attacking force.


BRISTOL CITY VS BARNSLEY (SUNDAY, 12AM AEST)

The big talking point: Departure of leading marksman, Tammy Abraham. The 19-year-old Chelsea loanee bagged an impressive 23 goals for Bristol City. Without him, Lee Johnson’s men would most likely be preparing for a season in England’s third tier.

What will happen: A goal fest. With goals not hard to come by in previous meetings between the two sides, odds are that the trend will most likely continue. Australian International, Bailey Wright, is key to The Robins defence if they want to have any chance of keeping Barnsley quiet up front.

What won’t happen: A balanced game. Expect these two teams to play out a traditional Championship match. With plenty of goals for the fans, the contest will be nothing short of a thriller.

 

BURTON ALBION VS CARDIFF CITY (SUNDAY, 12AM AEST)

The big talking point: With both teams, having ended the previous season on a high, consistency will be key if they’re to achieve their respective goals come the end of the season. Having warded off interest from several Championship rivals, Cardiff manager, Neil Warnock will hope that his first-choice striker, Kenneth Zohore will continue his fine form in front of goal.

What will happen: Plenty of goals. With neither side having the best defensive records in the division, be sure to expect a high scoring game. Burton are a real threat with the likes of Australian midfielder Jackson Irvine dominating the middle of the park.

What won’t happen: A structured and compact game. With both sides notorious for their attacking abilities, expect the match to be an open affair as they look to capitalise on each other’s mistakes.