The former Fulham and Leicester manager says everybody is looking at the 'big two' of Leeds United and Leicester City.

But Adams believes the Cobblers will also be up there along with the likes of Peterborough, Colchester, MK Dons and Carlisle.

Adams said of Leicester and Leeds: "They have got the biggest and best squads on paper and, because of the support they can generate, they are going to be obvious threats.

"Barry Fry has said that Peterborough will be going for back-to-back promotions, which is a bold statement to make. They have got a good squad and Colchester have reinvested money from the players they have lost following relegation.

"One team I suppose not many people would really fancy is Huddersfield but, if you look at his signings, Stan (Ternent) has done well.

"Then you have MK Dons and Carlisle.

"Both did fantastically well last season and I was impressed with Northampton as well.

"I think the division is stronger this season. A bit of money has been invested in the majority of teams."