Prem Trio Facing Instant Championship Return

For the first time in many seasons, the title race is not just between two sides, but the opposite can be said at the bottom where last year's three promoted sides look like they will be making a quick return to the second tier.

It has been a miserable time for fans of Burnley, Sheffield United, and Luton, as they stare into the abyss, but what exactly has gone wrong at the three clubs so far this season?

Burnley

Vincent Kompany did a marvelous job of getting Burnley promoted as champions last season, but the progress made at Turf Moor under the Belgian has hit the rails this season, leaving the club short odds for relegation in 

.

Kompany brought together a talented bunch of youngsters last year, but most of them were on loan deals and, although many new faces have come through the door, they have failed to hit the ground running in the Premier League.

A lack of goalscoring threat has been the biggest downfall for the Clarets, with them having the second worst goals tally so far. They have achieved just 2 wins out of 17 so far, a record that would have seen other managers sacked. Kompany has money in the bank with the club's hierarchy and fans, but their patience will eventually run out if the bad results continue.

Sheffield United

The only team to have scored less than Burnley, Sheffield United also have the worst defensive record in the division. The Blades have been diabolical at times, with their

by Newcastle being the darkest day so far.

A squad that is devoid of much Premier League quality, the club is also struggling off the pitch through financial mismanagement. Two of their best players from last season were sold, and the money they spent over the summer seems to have been wasted.

Paul Heckingbottom has lost his job as a result of the poor performances, with club legend Chris Wilder coming in to attempt to steady the ship. He will have a very tough job on his hands to stave off relegation, and it seems to be inevitable that they will be playing Championship football again next season.

Luton Town

Although they sit in the bottom three with two wins to their name, Luton have surprised many with their performances. Predicted to struggle badly before the season kicked off, Luton have held their own against some of the bigger teams, but a lack of Premier League experience has seen them struggle to get over the line.

Having steered the team to

last season, Rob Edwards continues to perform miracles at the smallest team in the league, and his style of play has earned plaudits from his fellow managers.

Relegation is a big danger as it stands, but if one team has a chance of escaping the bottom three before the end of the season, it may well be The Hatters.