Football Season Guide

Following a mightily successful title-winning campaign last year, Brighton and Hove Albion return to the Championship for the first time in five seasons. The Seagulls’ transformation under boss Gus Poyet has been tremendous, with the Albion faithful not only delighted at winning the League One championship but the manner in which it was secured. Poyet must prepare his side to bridge the gulf in quality between the Championship and League One this term if they are to make an impression on the division whatsoever. Supporters will look to the achievements of Norwich City who secured back-to-back promotions from League One to the top flight, but realistically stabilisation in the Championship will be a major success for the south coast club. Albion also have the excitement of a new 22,000 all-seater stadium, Falmer - a far cry from the Withdean Stadium. The Seagulls managed to pull off one of the signings of the close season with the arrival of Peterborough United hit man, Craig Mackail-Smith. The Scotland international is sure to provide the goals to steer Brighton clear from any trouble.