Bet365 data: bettor preference for promotions is between Norwich and Derby

It is predicted by bookmakers that Norwich will finish first once more, edging out of the Championship to win the Premier League, with Burnley following in second place for automatic promotion. In the meantime, Middlesborough—which, based on the numbers, will just lose out on automatic promotion—as well as Sheffield United, West Brom, and Watford will face off for play-off positions.

Worse still, Preston, Blackpool, and Rotherham are expected to be demoted from the second tier in the dreaded relegation tussle; Birmingham, Preston, and Reading may also be involved.

Steve Freeth of bet365 made the following statement about the return of English football on the eve of the new season: "We're now just a matter of hours away from another hugely anticipated EFL season." On the first weekend, dreams aren't created or destroyed, but we can get a decent idea of where certain teams stand when they go full-time.

Additionally, bet365's analytics indicates that Derby, which had a disastrous season both on and off the pitch last time out, will overcome its difficulties and win League One, with Sheffield Wednesday finishing in second place. Conversely, Burton Albion, Cheltenham, and Morecambe will be demoted to League Two.

Furthermore, trends in fan betting indicate that Bradford and Northampton will be promoted to League One, while Harrogate, Grimsby, and Colchester will compete for relegation.