A question that splits opinions across fans of even the same club, is it necessarily the manager of the team top of the league or is it maybe one overseeing a remarkable recovery away from the relegation zone.

If we look to the top of the league we see surprise package Brighton sitting pretty at the top with a shoestring budget and low expectations.

Manager Chris Hughton is in my opinion one of the most underrated in the country, you need only look to the remarkable job he did with Birmingham buying players on free transfers upon Birmingham's relegation to the Championship.

This was enforced due to the financial turmoil the club was in due to Carson Yeung's ownership, Hughton bought Marlon King and Chris Burke on free's who were essential to firing Birmingham to an impressive play off position.

He has done a similar job at Brighton, building a competitive squad on a tight budget, bringing in Hemed and Zamora who have proven hits so far, as Hughton works his magic again.

Could it be the wise old head of Steve Bruce looking to get promotion for his balanced Hull side which would hardly be surprising given his success at this level.

Perhaps, Steve Evans at Leeds deserves almighty credit for keeping Rotherham up on a small budget and know we wait to see if he can reinvigorate Leeds into a team to be feared again.

Mick McCarthy perhaps another wise old head at this level guaranteeing success to any club he goes as Ipswich search for the play-offs again, with a squad barely costing anything.

Sean Dyche as well would be foolish to count out given his remarkable achievement a few seasons a ago, getting Burnley up on a tiny budget.

But in my opinion you have to look at the ones that have led the recoveries like Karanka and Rowett.

Middlesbrough were in dire straights after the reign of Strachan and whilst Mowbray brought stability it is Karanka that has turned Middlesbrough into a force to be reckoned with, and genuine contenders after their remarkable season last year where he took Middlesbrough to the play-off final.

But many would point out that he has been brilliantly backed financially by Gibson which has made it so possible.

It is Gary Rowett in my opinion who deserves this accolade after turning Birmingham from a side who lost 8-0 at home to Bournemouth, to a side with a mean defence, a potent attack and are genuine promotion contenders after just one year at the club.

So what do you think football fans ? Who is the best manager in the Championship? Leave thoughts and opinions below!