During the off-season, a sense of expectation rushed through the veins of fans of twenty-four clubs who make up arguably the most competitive league in the world. There is no big four in this compelling competition - anyone can win it. With three of the biggest clubs in England relegated from the mighty Premier League, the new Championship season has an exciting feel to it. North-east giants Newcastle United and local foes Middlesbrough will both hope to mount a promotion rival, as will fierce Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest and Derby County. Not surprisingly, it is Newcastle United who have made the best start to the new season, and going into the recent international break they had opened up a two-point gap at the top of the standings.