The race for promotion within the English Football League (EFL) is nearing its conclusion. While the Championship playoffs will determine the final team joining Leeds United and Burnley in the Premier League, significant promotion battles have been fought and decided across all three EFL divisions. This season has already seen remarkable stories, such as Tom Brady`s Birmingham City securing their return to the Championship and Wrexham achieving an astonishing third consecutive promotion. But who else has made the leap?
Out of the 72 clubs in the EFL pyramid, only a limited number—typically 10 through automatic spots and playoffs combined—achieve promotion each year, keeping their dreams of reaching the top flight alive. As the final day of the EFL league season approaches, several promotion spots have already been clinched.
Here`s a look at the teams that have already guaranteed promotion from their respective divisions:
Promoted to the Premier League
- Burnley
- Leeds United
Scott Parker guided Burnley to an immediate comeback to the Premier League, following their relegation the previous season under Vincent Kompany. Their success was built on a solid defensive unit and standout goalkeeping from James Trafford. Leeds United also bounced back effectively, matching Burnley`s high point tally of 97 after spending an extra year in the second tier than they had hoped. The possibility of both teams finishing with 100 points or more highlights their exceptional dominance throughout the Championship campaign this season.
Promoted to the Championship
- Birmingham City
- Wrexham
Birmingham City is set to return to the Championship and potentially could challenge for a League One points record. Their successful campaign has been buoyed by significant investment, including Tom Brady`s involvement in ownership and the acquisition of striker Jay Stansfield from Fulham. Stansfield`s contribution of 19 goals has been crucial. Wrexham`s captivating journey under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney continues its upward trajectory with a third successive promotion. While achieving a fourth promotion to reach the Premier League represents a formidable challenge, their history suggests nothing is beyond their reach. Manager Phil Parkinson has established himself as one of the top figures in the English football pyramid, successfully navigating decisions, including rotating a club legend like Paul Mullin, without disrupting the team`s progress.
Promoted to League One
- Doncaster Rovers
- Port Vale
Doncaster Rovers earned their promotion, significantly aided by Luke Molyneux`s impressive season, which included 16 goals and 12 assists. This represents a positive step for the club as they aim to climb back up the pyramid after being relegated from the Championship in 2014. Port Vale, led by Darren Moore, are also promoted, returning to League One after relegation last season. Despite holding a unique record for the longest tenure in the EFL without ever reaching the top flight (113 seasons), their focus is now on consolidating their position in the third division.
Dominic Ashworth