Luton Town open the 2019-20 Championship season on Friday night when they welcome Middlesbrough to Kenilworth Road.
The Hatters last played in the second tier of English football back in 2007, the first of three consecutive relegations, but three promotions in six seasons sees the Bedfordshire outfit back in the Championship.
Latest Odds
A win for Luton would certainly be a fairytale start to the season but bet365 make them 9/5 (2.80) outsiders to beat Boro.
Jonathan Woodgate’s men are available at 29/20 (2.45) to claim victory in their first match under their new manager, with the draw a 23/10 (3.30) shot.
Team News
Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Tomas Mejias is set to start in goal for Boro as Darren Randolph recovers from an ankle injury, with fellow new signings Marcus Browne and Marc Bola also pushing for a place.
Star strikers Danny Hylton and James Collins should lead the line for Luton, whilst Callum McManaman could be in line for his Hatters debut.
Preview
GettyFriday’s hosts will certainly be in good spirits following back-to-back promotions, plundering 90 goals last season to win League One despite the departure of former manager Nathan Jones halfway through the campaign.
The Hatters went unbeaten at home in the league last term and have not tasted defeat in a league match at Kenilworth Road since March 2018, scoring 67 goals in 27 matches since that loss.
Whilst Middlesbrough are perhaps worthy favourites, considering they missed out on the play-offs by just a single point last season, it may be difficult for backers to get onside with them for this one.
Tips and Predictions
Woodgate is set to make his managerial debut on Friday and, with a squad that lacks any sort of depth, the value could lie with Luton to get amongst the goals.
Over 1.5 home goals is available at 13/8 (2.63) with bet365, which looks an excellent price considering how impressive the Hatters have been in the final third in the last two seasons.
The visitors have only five senior defenders on their books and will have their work cut out against a team that scored more than one goal in 30 of their 46 league matches last term.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
Over 1.5 Home Goals at 13/8 (2.63) for a 2pt stake with bet365