The English League One title race is heating up, and as we approach the business end of the season, four teams are emerging as the frontrunners in the battle for promotion to the Championship.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the top contenders and their respective chances of securing the coveted League One title.

Derby County – 9/4

Despite their recent struggles and financial woes, Derby County find themselves at the forefront of the betting market for the League One title race.

Sitting in fourth place, just four points off the top with a game in hand, the Rams are showing resilience and determination.

With 15 wins, four draws, and six defeats at the time of writing, Derby County are making a commendable account of themselves.

Derby’s recent hardships have been well-documented, but their on-field performance is proving that they are capable of turning things around.

Bolton Wanderers – 5/2

Bolton Wanderers, currently occupying the second spot in League One, are hot on the heels of table-toppers Portsmouth.

With 16 wins, three draws, and five defeats, the Wanderers are making a strong push for promotion.

What’s more, they have two games in hand over Portsmouth, and should they secure victories in those, they might potentially go four points clear at the summit.

Bolton Wanderers fans have been yearning for a return to the Championship since their relegation in 2019, and the League 1 odds of 5/2 suggest that their dream might be edging closer to reality.

The team’s consistency and ability to capitalise on their additional games might prove crucial in the final reckoning.

Peterborough United – 3/1

In third place, Peterborough United are the third favourite to win League One with odds of 3/1.

Having secured promotion to the Championship in 2021 following an eight-year absence, the Posh survived just one year in the second tier.

There was more heartache for the side last season, as they made the play-offs but lost to Sheffield Wednesday in the semi-finals.

Despite their recent setbacks though, Peterborough United remain in contention for automatic promotion.

The odds of 3/1 reflect their strong position in the league and their hunger to secure the top spot.

Portsmouth – 7/2

Surprisingly, the league leaders, Portsmouth, find themselves as the fourth favourites to lift the League One title with odds of 7/2.

Having started the campaign in scintillating form with just one defeat in their first 23 games, Pompey’s recent inconsistency has seen them slip down the pecking order.

With just one win in their last five games, Portsmouth need to rediscover their early-season form quickly if they are to fend off the challenges from Derby County, Bolton Wanderers, and Peterborough United.

The odds suggest that, despite their current league position, there is scepticism regarding Portsmouth’s ability to maintain their grip on the top spot.

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As the race for the League One title unfolds, football fans can expect a thrilling and closely contested battle among these four sides.

Each team brings their own story of resilience, determination, and the desire to make a triumphant return to the Championship.

Only time will tell which of these contenders will emerge victorious and claim the League One crown.