Newcastle are the bookies’ favourites to win the Championship but relegated clubs have a very poor record of bouncing straight back – Simon Hopper analyses the best ante-post bets ahead of the new season.

Valencia striker David Villa insists he has never envisaged playing for another club despite the speculation that has surrounded his future in recent months.

The Spain international has been linked with big-money moves to a number of leading European clubs with Real Madrid and Barcelona both having bids turned down this summer.

But cash-strapped Valencia have refused to sell and Villa says he is pleased to remain at the Mestalla.

“I could not spend all summer refuting things, so I wanted to be quiet,” he told the Spanish media.

“I depended on the decision of the club, they have decided for me to stay and I am glad.

“I was told I should leave Valencia for the good of the club, soon after that everything changed and from that moment on I never saw myself leaving.”

Villa insists he is not tempted by a move and is happy to remain with Valencia.

“There is no train missed because all I have achieved is because of Valencia and the Spanish national team so I do not think any train has passed,” he added.

“I am happy and eager. I have been sincere in everything and, from now on, it’s over.

“Last summer was similar to this one, I spent four months with the same story, but from now on this matter is over.”

Newcastle are the bookies’ favourites to win the Championship but relegated clubs have a very poor record of bouncing straight back – Simon Hopper analyses the best ante-post bets ahead of the new season.

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