The Championship campaign begins tonight with Wolves welcoming Blackburn Rovers to Molineux in the first fixture.
It promises to be another fascinating campaign in the second tier, with some huge clubs relegated from the Premier League, and fierce competition throughout. Any side seeking promotion will need a reliable goalscorer, but who are the favourites to win the Golden Boot?
Adam Armstrong – Wolves (16/1)
When Wolves signed Adam Armstrong in January with the club bottom of the Premier League, the deal was done with one eye on this season. Only 11 players have ever scored more Championship goals than Armstrong, who is close to a guarantee at this level.
The 29-year-old has 91 goals in 216 second-tier games and was named Championship Player of the Season at Blackburn Rovers in 2020/21.
Valentin Castellanos – West Ham (10/1)
There was an expectation that Valentic Castellanos would leave West Ham after relegation, but with just over a fortnight left of the window, the Argentine remains. Castellanos was a bright spark after signing from Lazio in January, scoring six times in 18 Premier League games. He netted twice in the League Cup win over Port Value and looks great value for the Golden Boot.
Will Lankshear – Middlesbrough (8/1)
A breakout campaign for Will Lankshear has persuaded Middlesbrough to sign the 21-year-old for around £10m, and he responded with a brilliant debut winner in the League Cup.
Lankshear scored 11 league goals for an Oxford United side relegated last season, and could thrive amid better service at the Riverside.
Raul Jimenez – Wolves (7/1)
A former favourite has returned to Wolves with Raul Jimenez rejoining from Fulham. The Mexican veteran might not have a 46-game season in him, but he certainly knows where the net is. Jimenez scored nine times in the Premier League last season, and boasts 47 international goals to his name.
Jarrod Bowen – West Ham (5/1)
Jarrod Bowen might just be the best player to have played in the Championship in their prime. Bowen has decided to remain loyal to West Ham and rebuild after relegation, with the club captain saying he did not want his legacy diminished.
Bowen has recorded 20+ goals and assists in each of the last three Premier League seasons, and now spearheads West Ham’s bid for promotion.
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