The East Anglian derbies are back this season, and the excitement is palpable. Ipswich Town, fresh from a challenging Premier League campaign, are set to face Birmingham City in their Championship opener. Meanwhile, Norwich City, under new head coach Liam Manning, will host Millwall. Both matches will be covered by BBC Local Radio, with Chris Goreham and Brenner Wooley providing expert commentary.

Expectations for the Season

Chris Goreham (Norwich City): Cautious optimism is the mood around Norwich City. With new American ownership, the club has signed 11 players this summer, with Borja Sainz being the only major departure. This investment means City is expected to be among the top spenders in the division, aiming for a better finish than last season's 13th place. A serious push for the top six is anticipated.

Brenner Wooley (Ipswich Town): Ipswich Town is expected to be a strong contender this season. Last summer's recruitment focused on players with Championship success, preparing the team for a strong campaign even if they didn't survive in the Premier League. However, the challenge will be tougher this time, as Town is no longer the underdog. They start the season as bookies' favorites, with no room for flying under the radar.

New Signings

Chris: Norwich City has made several notable signings. Defenders Harry Darling and Jakov Medic are expected to bolster the defense, while Danish forward Mathias Kvistgaarden could fill the gap left by Borja Sainz.

Brenner: Ipswich Town is still waiting for a much-needed new striker and midfield reinforcements. The return of Jens Cajuste is a positive, but the departure of key players like Kalvin Phillips and Massimo Luongo leaves gaps. Ashley Young's arrival at right-back brings valuable experience.

The East Anglian Derby

Chris: The derby is always a tense affair. No one truly enjoys it until it's over, and their team has won or at least maintained an unbeaten record.

Brenner: While not emotionally invested, Brenner always hopes for an Ipswich win. The memory of Timm Klose's late equalizer in 2018 is still painful.

Head Coaches

Chris: Kieran McKenna's longevity and popularity at Ipswich are impressive, especially given the frequent managerial changes at Norwich City.

Brenner: Liam Manning is seen as a terrific appointment for Norwich City, with high hopes for his success this season.

Ending the Drought

Chris: Norwich City fans are prepared for the possibility of losing a derby, though it hasn't happened since the iPad was invented.

Brenner: Ipswich supporters are eager to end the 16-year drought, hoping for both promotion and a derby win.

Championship Predictions

Chris: Ipswich should finish higher, given their strong squad. Finishing above them could be enough for Norwich to secure promotion.

Brenner: Ipswich Town is expected to be in the play-offs at least, with a strong chance of promotion.

Tune in to BBC Local Radio for coverage of every Ipswich Town and Norwich City match this season.