15:00 Saturday

Wycombe to beat Burton

You have to go back to 2018 to find the last time Burton Albion got the better of Wycombe Wanderers in League One. The Blues’ season last year was a promising one, but ultimately ended in heartbreak after defeat to Sunderland in the play-off final at Wembley. They’ll be looking to mark a new chapter and attack the first game - winning both legs last season against the Brewers won’t harm the confidence either. Not to mention Burton’s pre-season has been beyond woeful; eight friendlies 1W 1D 6L. 

15:00 Saturday

Sheffield Wednesday to beat Portsmouth

It’s a similar story for Darren Moore and the Owls; reaching the playoff places is an achievement but still no cigar. Portsmouth couldn’t break into the top six last season with some putting that down to a lack of attacking threat. They’ve comprehensively covered that area this summer, but it’s the South Yorkshire side that have recruited the best forward in the window in Michael Smith. The 6 ft 3 bagsman hit 24 goals in 52 matches, being instrumental in Rotherham’s promotion. Should he line up in front of a packed Hillsborough, it could be a convincing win for the Wednesday.

15:00 Saturday

Hearts to beat Ross County

It’s all about closing the gap for the Jam Tarts this season. Finishing third in the Scottish Premiership and best of the rest would have been the goal, but still 28 points off the Rangers and Celtic duo is a gulf too large. It’s true Hearts and Ross County have had positive warm-ups; but the Jambon are scoring for fun, finding the net 21 times in six matches. You feel that they have the firepower to get past Ross County. There’s no doubt that closing the gap is a titanic task but let’s hope the Hearts will go on.

15:00 Saturday

Luton to beat Birmingham

Birmingham recorded their sixth straight bottom-half finish last season, picking up 47 points from 46 games. You’d think they’d need a team shake-up, but the core squad has stayed much the same. Best highlighted by their winless last three games. Luton have also kept the same players that put together a path to the play-offs but the form heading into gameweek 1 is night and day. The Hatters W4 and D1 from five games and look a cohesive unit ahead of season kick-off.