Professional football club in Salford, Greater Manchester, England.
A look at how early-season form across the Championship, League One and League Two is shaping expectations, with Charlton, Swansea, Swansea and Wolves noted for brisk starts and Derby’s ownership saga continuing to unfold.
Graham Alexander has returned to Preston North End as manager, replacing sacked Paul Heckingbottom. The former player has led Bradford City to top of League One this season and will look to turn Preston's fortunes around after a poor start to the Championship campaign.
Coventry City have climbed out of the relegation zone after a bold, risk‑taking win over Newcastle United. Jack Rudoni’s early penalty and late strikes by Ellis Simms and Stephen Mfuni propelled the Sky Blues, with Sidiki Cherif also scoring, as Frank Lampard’s side show a template of attacking bravery that could define their season.