EFL Five Things: Rescue Acts and Derby Delights
By Glenn Speller
BBC Sport England
It's a weekend of derbies, returning managers, and potential relegations in the EFL. Here's a breakdown of five key things to watch alongside your team's fortunes.
Gary Rowett's Emergency Rescue Mission
Gary Rowett is becoming a familiar name for clubs in crisis. Leicester City, currently in the Championship's relegation zone, called on his expertise this week after a poor run of results. With a reputation for turning around teams' fortunes, Rowett's task is to dig Leicester out of a deep hole. Leicester chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha praised Rowett's deep knowledge of the Championship and experience in crucial season battles.
Nathan Jones Returns to the Scene of the Crime
Three years after his short stint at Southampton, Nathan Jones is back in the south coast city. This time, he guides Charlton Athletic, who he helped gain promotion to the Championship last season. Despite a recent 3-1 home defeat by Portsmouth, Charlton remains seven points clear of the drop zone. Jones' return to St Mary's will be interesting, given his previous departure and the team's current form.
Birmingham City's Play-Off Push
Birmingham City is on a consistent run, with only one defeat in their last 10 league games. This has propelled them into 11th place, two points shy of the top six. However, they face a challenging period ahead, with trips to Norwich and Millwall, followed by a home match against Middlesbrough. Manager Chris Davies remains confident, emphasizing the team's fighting spirit and quality.
South Yorkshire Slugfest
Rotherham United and Doncaster Rovers fans are in for a tense match at New York Stadium, with League One survival on the line. Both clubs have retained their managers, with Rotherham's Matt Hamshaw and Doncaster's Grant McCann, who led them to promotion. Rotherham's recent loss to Burton Albion has set them back, while Doncaster's inconsistent form has kept them near the bottom four. The outcome of this derby could have significant consequences.
Tranmere Rovers' Post-Christmas Blues
Tranmere Rovers supporters are in for a challenging period after Christmas. Since the holiday, they've lost eight games, including a six-game losing streak. Despite their current position, they remain 10 points clear of the drop zone, thanks to their pre-Christmas results. However, upcoming matches against promotion-chasing Notts County and Crewe, followed by a trip to Newport, could be crucial for their survival.
