Malky Mackay is convinced the Championship will be more competitive than it was last season.

The Hornets player-coach believes those relegated from the Premier League will be looking to bounce back, while the three newly-promoted teams will further strengthen the second tier.

Mackay told the club's official website: "The sides coming down have all got experience of this league which will be vital really and in their own right they're all big clubs with large fanbases.

"While we see Nottingham Forest coming in from the wilderness as well, they're a big club again and I remember many a time playing in front of 25,000-odd at the City ground.

"Swansea and Doncaster will be new experiences for all of us and that in itself is enjoyable. They've both got new stadiums with excellent facilities and I'm sure those grounds will have a superb atmosphere.

"The clubs coming up will have a point to prove - and generally there is always a surprise package. I remember Colchester a few years ago. The Championship will be close and competitive as always and there's never any easy games."