A look at the second division...
Scunthorpe United
• Position last season: League 1 champions
• Manager: Nigel Adkins - Who needs Mourinho, they had their physio? • In: Paul Hayes (Barnsley), Kevan Hurst (Sheffield United), Izzy Iriekpen (Swansea), Martin Paterson (Stoke), Jonathan Forte (Sheffield United)
• Out: Neil Mackenzie (Notts County), Steve Foster (Darlington), Steve Torpey (released), Ramon Calliste (released), Ashley Allinson (released), Robbie Foy (released), Lee Ridley (Cheltenham), Richard Hinds (Sheffield Wednesday), Billy Sharp (Sheffield United)
Scunthorpe's was an unlikely path to promotion. Elevating physio Nigel Adkins to the manager's job when Brian Laws left proved spectacularly successful and, by taking 51 points at Glanford Park, they ensured it is a ground few relish visiting.
The difficulty for Scunthorpe is that 30-goal Billy Sharp has returned to Sheffield United and, following Andy Keogh's January move to Wolves, it leaves them looking desperately short of firepower.
Adkins' additions are young and usually untried in the Championship, but they look short of class. Scunthorpe may relish their status as underdogs but despite their success last season, few anticipate anything other than a relegation battle.
• Key Man: Joe Murphy - Voted the best goalkeeper in League One. Could be busy in the Championship.• One To Watch: Jonathan Forte - Quick and skilful, he never made the breakthrough at Sheffield United, but caught the eye in various loan spells before joining Scunthorpe.
• Must Do Better: Paul Hayes - Struggled to make his mark in the Championship at Barnsley. Now in his second spell at Scunthorpe, he will hope to fare better there.
• Prediction: Their prime matchwinner is gone so, unless Scunthorpe can maintain their wonderful home form, a return to League One beckons.
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