Around the Division LEAGUE ONE ROUND-UP Welcome back! It’s been a long time coming, but finally the fans can rejoice once more and spur their side through what’s set to be an enticing campaign ranging from fallen giants to plucky minnows adamant to cut their teeth. As ever, let’s assess what the first week will conjure up by digesting the trials and tribulations of Sky Bet League One. Kicking off with the demoted sides, Wycombe Wanderers return to the third tier with their heads held high after a gallant conclusion to their Championship journey, where they won five of their last eight. Under Gareth Ainsworth’s tutelage off the pitch and some experienced firepower on it, the Chairboys will compete. They host Accrington Stanley, who themselves will be eager to upset the odds once more and improve on last season’s 11th position. Yo-yo club Rotherham United, who have suffered three relegations and two promotions in their last five campaigns, will fancy their chances yet again under the proven Paul Warne. The key, of course, is to find that 20+ goal a season striker and add some ruthlessness. They kick proceedings off against Ryan Lowe’s Plymouth Argyle, who can aim for a top-half finish after making several sound defensive acquisitions. Despite off-field uncertainty, mid-table is a genuine possibility for Sheffield Wednesday thanks to a strong blend of experience and young prospects. It’s a test Darren Moore will relish, starting with a tricky opener at the Valley against Charlton Athletic. With serious promotion ambitions, the time could be now for the Addicks who boast an impressive core. With an ownership regime capable of vying for promotion and the opportunity for Lee Johnson to build his own squad, the Black Cats may not need to settle for play-offs, especially if they can find someone to emulate Charlie Wyke’s 30-goal heroics. The striker, who moved
22
CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED
to Wigan Athletic on a free transfer, could end up haunting his former club this weekend, with the Latics poised to inevitably improve on 20th position. With reinvigorated investment and an excellent summer of astute business, Paul Cook’s Ipswich Town look set to embark on an exciting era with an aim of play-offs as the bare minimum. They take on Morecambe at Portman Road, who are plying their trade in the third tier for the first time in their 101-year history. With a relatively new squad and identity under Stephen Robinson, survival would be an applaudable achievement. Bolton Wanderers are arguably the most settled of the promoted sides and look equipped to kick on under ambitious manager Ian Evatt, who’s bolstered the Trotters’ attacking options. This sets up an intriguing encounter against dark horses MK Dons, who themselves have added exciting youngsters to a well-drilled side that have enough promise to flirt with the promotion spots. Back in League One for the first time since 2002, Cambridge United will be quietly optimistic of their chances under the unparalleled Mark Bonner. The sublime creativity of Wes Hoolahan and the battering RICHIE WELLENS manager of Doncaster Rovers