Championship kick-off: Favourites West Ham, Boro, Wolves

West Ham return to the second tier for the first time since 2012, aiming for an immediate Premier League comeback.

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What happened. The Championship season kicks off this Friday with West Ham, Middlesbrough, and Wolves among the pre-season favourites for the title.

• West Ham retained manager Nuno Espirito Santo and Jarrod Bowen.
• Burnley face upheaval in their sixth straight year in a different division.
• Wolves aim for immediate return after eight years in the Premier League.

The season begins with high stakes as relegated sides seek instant promotion.

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