Football League World compiled a list of the Championship’s nine most passionate fanbases, and the selections underline how much supporters shape the second tier. West Bromwich Albion, ranked ninth, still carry the weight of history. One of the English Football League’s founding fathers, West Brom were founded in 1878 and, despite languishing in the Championship for almost half a decade, their supporters continue to back the Black Country outfit passionately, bouncing up and down on cue when the Baggies score. Under Ryan Mason next season, West Brom will hope the Hawthorns can be used as a fortress to build a charge towards the top six and ultimately achieve their Premier League ambitions.

Millwall occupy the eighth spot and remain renowned for the atmosphere at the Den. The ground regularly produces an intimidating environment for visiting sides. New manager Alex Neil was an instant hit for Millwall last term and guided them to within two points of the play-offs, a finish that should increase enthusiasm among the Lions’ supporters.

Birmingham City are described as a club firmly on the up. The Second City side packed out St. Andrew’s consistently before Tom Wagner’s involvement in the club. With new stars such as Kyogo Furuhashi, Demarai Gray and Tommy Doyle to cheer on, the Blues’ passion could push them towards the top of the second tier under Chris Davies.

Derby County are noted for enduring support through highs and lows. Another one of the EFL’s founders, the Rams are backed by a fanbase reflecting the club’s prestige and appear ready to follow what looks like an extremely competitive Derby side next term.

Sheffield United’s supporters have also made Bramall Lane a tough place to visit. Coventry City’s fans fill the CBS Arena and travelled in large numbers; they were outraged to see former boss Mark Robins handed his marching orders but backed new man Frank Lampard and were almost rewarded with a trip to Wembley in May.

Middlesbrough travel well and have consistently backed the team during flirtations with the play-offs. Portsmouth produce a chaotic atmosphere at Fratton Park, picked up points in 18 of 23 home matches last term, the eighth-best home record, and travelled well despite geographical limitations.

Sheffield Wednesday were ranked first. Despite a torrid summer plagued by owner Dejphon Chansiri, the Owls sold out their allocation for their opening-day trip to Leicester City. Hillsborough becomes a Cauldron of noise when packed, and Wednesday’s travelling fans provide an incredible atmosphere whether the club is competitive or not.