WOLVES ON WAY UP BUT ROYALS IN SCRAP

THIS season I have seen two of my previous clubs – Wolves and Reading - have completely contrasting campaigns.

Having been at both clubs when winning promotion to the Premier League as champions, I always keep a close eye on their results.

Wolves have really taken the Championship by storm, playing a brand of football that wouldn’t be out of place in the Premier League.

Portuguese head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has assembled a squad with great balance.

The exciting talent of Diogo Jota and Helder Costa has blended well with experienced Championship players like John Ruddy, Danny Batth and Matt Doherty.

It’s the reliability and know-how of these home-grown players that has given the creative playmakers and match-winners the freedom to roam and deliver.

Despite a recent blip in results, I believe ‘The Mighty Wolves’ will run out worthy winners when the curtain comes down on another exciting Championship season in May.

I do, however, have concerns over Jaap Stam’s Reading, who are scrapping at the wrong end of the table.

The Berkshire club have failed to build on last season’s play-off final defeat and are on an awful run, which suggests they are strong contenders for the drop.

But I believe the Royals have enough quality and experience to put some daylight between them and the other strugglers before the final game of the season.

The Championship is proving once again how unforgiving and competitive it can be. No one has the right to stay up and you will be pushed every inch if you are to succeed.

Best of luck to both.