Image source, Getty Images

Both Bournemouth and West Bromwich Albion have new managers at the help as they look to mount a promotion bid in 2021-22.

Jonathan Woodgate steered the Cherries into the play-offs last season, having taken over on an interim basis from Jason Tindall in February.

After a 3-2 aggregate defeat at the hands of Brentford in the semi-finals, the Dorset club plucked Scott Parker from relegated Fulham.

The former England midfielder took the Whites into the Premier League through the play-offs in 2019-20, but says Bournemouth's long-term vision enticed him to the Vitality Stadium.

West Brom have chosen Valerien Ismael, who caught the eye with Barnsley last season, as the man to replace Sam Allardyce.

The 45-year-old former Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich defender took over the Tykes in October when the club were 21st in the table.

He catapulted the Oakwell side up the division and into the play-offs with a brand of direct football and an intense high press. So can he transfer that success to the Hawthorns?

Image source, Rex Features

What better way to start the new Championship season?

Bournemouth, beaten play-off semi-finalists in May, host relegated West Bromwich Albion.

Both sides have new managers and will be targeting promotion to the Premier League.

Scott Parker picked up a routine win in his first competitive game in charge of the Cherries last weekend, as the Dorset side registered a 5-0 victory over MK Dons in the League Cup.

And new Baggies boss Valerien Ismael has gone unbeaten in pre-season, rounding off their preparations with a 4-0 win over Birmingham. Can Albion continue their form when it matters?

Just 67 days after the League Two play-off final, the English Football League is back.

Euro 2020 and the Copa America have been and gone, while the Tokyo Olympics has provided a distraction over the past two weeks.

But tonight the 2021-22 Championship season gets under way and, what's more, EFL clubs are preparing to welcome back capacity crowds for the first time since March 2020.

The second tier action kicks off with Bournemouth hosting relegated West Bromwich Albion.

Stick with us for all the action, along with other things to look out for over the next nine months. It promises to be another gripping campaign.

Image source, Getty Images