Walsall's Dean Smith: League rivalry will be fierce as ever

Dean Smith today laughed off suggestions League One will be weaker next year and insisted the division will be competitive as ever.

The division's final line-up was confirmed on Monday when Fleetwood Town defeated Burton Albion in the League Two play-off final.

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On Sunday, Leyton Orient were consigned to another season in the third tier as they lost on penalties to Rotherham in the play-off final.

The promotions of Wolves, Brentford and Rotherham – three teams with substantial budgets – has prompted many to claim the competition will not be as tough as last season.

But Smith said: "I'm not convinced by that argument. I think the league will be as competitive as ever.

"I saw Karl Robinson at MK Dons said his chairman will be giving it a go. I think they have been giving it a go for the last few years! For me you give it a go every year."

While Doncaster, Barnsley and Yeovil have all dropped down from the Championship, Scunthorpe, Chesterfield and Rochdale were promoted from League Two alongside Fleetwood.

"Rochdale were up here a couple of years ago and they are known for doing things really well," said Smith. "Chesterfield have played some really good football this season and Scunthorpe will be strong as well. I still think it will be as competitive as ever."

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