We take a look at 5 players from the Championship who could make the step up to Premier League football.

The Sky Bet Championship is full of talent and ability, which more often than not goes unnoticed in every transfer market by the top clubs in the Premier League.

With Manchester City securing a deal for Fulham starlet Patrick Roberts, more clubs may delve into the second tier of English football to help enhance their squads ahead of the new season.

There are always players that clearly stand out in each Championship team, and we have selected five who we feel would adapt to the rigours of playing in the best league in the world.

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PRESS ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE 5 PLAYERS

 

Brentford v AFC Bournemouth - Sky Bet Football League Championship

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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5) Lee Tomlin, Middlesbrough 

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Lee Tomlin made the step up from League one to the Championship in January 2014, becoming one of the first signings of Karanka's reign.

Although not a prolific goalscorer, only netting five times last term, Tomlin is better known for his skilful play and defence cutting passes.

In January 2015 he was named Championship player of the month following a series of impressive performances including Middlesbrough's 2-0 FA cup away victory over Manchester City.

On his day, Tomlin can be unplayable, but his lack of consistency is his only downfall. If Tomlin can put in a consistent season at Middlesbrough next term, he has potential to be one of the best attacking midfielders in the division and eventually make the step up to the top flight with home-town Leicester City a potential destination.

4) Michail Antonio, Nottingham Forest

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Michail Antonio had a successful first season at City Ground, netting a very respectable 14 goals from the wing.

He was one of the main positives from a fairly disappointing season which saw Forest finish in a mid table position following an impressive unbeaten start to the season.

After an impressive season personally, Antonio may be tempted away from the City Ground by a Premier League club with West Brom thought to be keen on securing the services of the winger following a £5m bid.

With pace, power and a good end product, Antonio has all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League if given a consistent run of games. However, should Antonio stay at Forest, his professional attitude means he'll be focused on achieving success at the City Ground next season.

3) George Friend, Middlesbrough

Friend is wanted by a number of Premier League clubs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

George Friend became an instant fan favourite following his transfer from Doncaster and is one of the few players remaining from Tony Mowbray's stint as manager.

The left back, who made it into the PFA Championship Team Of The Year 2015, is known for is adventurous forward play and 110% effort.

As well as his attacking instinct, the arrival of Karanka has helped Friend to improve his defensive discipline making him a complete left back.

Despite reported interest from Premier League West Brom earlier in the transfer window, both the club and player were quick to clarify the player would not be leaving the club.

However, as proven with Tyrone Mings' £8m move to Bournemouth, Middlesbrough may not be able to reject a big money offer for the 27-year-old.

George Friend is ready to prove himself in the top flight of English football and failure to gain promotion this season may see him depart Middlesbrough, who should see a massive return on the £100,000 they paid.

2) Will Hughes, Derby County

FLW understands that Liverpool will submit an enquiry for Hughes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Will Hughes has been tipped as a future England international for the last few seasons following his breakthrough into the Derby starting 11 in 2012.

Hughes,20, has been a constant in the first team since then, racking up over 100 appearances for the club.

The England U-21 international has been described as a flair player with good ball retention  and the ability to go past a man in the attacking third.

With age on his side and an abundance off Championship experience, Hughes is surely worth an investment for any Premiership side.

Hughes and McLaren built a strong relationship during their time together at Derby, so a move Newcastle may be on the cards. However, new Rams boss Clement will be keen to hold onto his star man as prepares for the new season and an aim of promotion.

1) Jordan Rhodes, Blackburn 

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The list of clubs in the queue to sign Jordan Rhodes is almost as big as his tally of goals since moving to Blackburn in 2012.

The Scottish international is attracting interest from both the Premier League and Championship following a prolific spell at Ewood Park, consistently scoring 20+ goals in each of his three seasons.

With a price tag in the region of £8m, Championship admirers Middlesbrough, who still hope to seal a deal for the 25 year old according to The Northern Echo, may be priced out of a move this summer.

Therefore, if Blackburn where to cash in on the striker this summer, the Premier League would seem to be the most likely destination. Jordan is a natural goalscorer and with good service has the potential to be a top striker in the Premier League.