Championship preview: Contenders, pretenders and strugglers
According to BBC Sport, with League One and League Two clubs involved in the FA Cup this weekend, the Championship has a free run of the EFL. So far England's second tier has delivered its usual drama and managerial sackings. Struggling Derby County open proceedings on Friday against Bolton Wanderers, and BBC Sport has highlighted key fixtures for Saturday. Chris Davies' Birmingham City have climbed to third following five wins from their past six games and face Swansea on Saturday with a chance to go top. Meanwhile, West Ham United appointed Scott Parker following the dismissal of Nuno Espirito Santo, and after a 3-3 draw at Cardiff, they travel to Blackburn. Sheffield United, under Chris Wilder, sit quietly in ninth place and face Charlton Athletic, whose manager Nathan Jones is under pressure after four straight defeats. Preston North End manager Graham Alexander is struggling as his side prepares to host Southampton. In addition, West Bromwich Albion under James Morrison have entered the top six ahead of their home match against Millwall.