Despite Nigel Clough’s heroics in helping Burton Albion survive relegation in the Sky Bet Championship last season, the Brewers are still listed as the 13/8 favourites to finish in the bottom-three at the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

Burton and Clough will once again fancy their chances of defying the odds and maintaining their Championship status, but could arguably face a more difficult challenge, with the division becoming once again, more competitive.

Clough has moved to strengthen his squad already this summer , but could have completed his most significant signing in the last few days, bringing Luke Murphy back to the Pirelli Stadium on a season-long loan from Leeds United.

Murphy spent the second-half of last season on-loan with the Brewers, where he made 19 Championship appearances and played a significant role in helping Clough’s side avoid relegation.

The 27-year year old proved to be a calming influence in midfield, and his disciplined displays helped others flourish towards the final stages of the Championship season.

During his time at Elland Road, Murphy has made over 100 appearances for Leeds and with that will have gained some valuable experience in the Championship, which will be crucial for Burton next season.

Murphy’s arrival at Burton last January handed everyone at the Pirelli Stadium a boost, and there was plenty of praise for the midfielder following the end of his initial loan spell.

Having the Leeds man on-board for the full season is a real boost for Clough and Burton heading into the 2017/18 campaign, and if Murphy can replicate the form he has shown over the last six-months, the Brewers have every chance of once again surviving in the Championship, despite finding themselves in a stronger division.