The push towards the top tier of English football is in full swing, with the playoff picture solidifying in the EFL Championship to determine which teams will join Leeds United and Burnley in the Premier League. However, the promotion drama isn`t confined to the top of the pyramid, as clubs across the English Football League are striving to move up.
Among the 72 clubs within the English football league structure, only ten secure promotion each season, keeping their aspirations of Premier League football alive. It`s a select group, and as the final day of EFL league fixtures concludes this Saturday, some of these coveted promotion spots have already been sealed.
Let`s take a look at which teams have already achieved promotion from their divisions:
Promoted to the Premier League
- Burnley
- Leeds United
Burnley have achieved immediate promotion back to the Premier League following their relegation last season. Under the guidance of Vincent Kompany, a solid defense and impressive goalkeeping from James Trafford were key factors as Burnley not only secured promotion but also pushed for the Championship title. Leeds United join them in ascending to the top flight, having spent one season in the second division after relegation in 2022-23. Both teams finished level on 97 points, showcasing their dominant campaigns and potentially marking the first time two teams in the same division reach the 100-point mark, illustrating their consistent strength throughout the Championship season.
Promoted to the Championship
- Birmingham City
- Wrexham
Birmingham City are poised for a return to the Championship after a successful campaign in League One. The club, with part-ownership from figures like Tom Brady, has seen significant investment, including the acquisition of striker Jay Stansfield from Fulham. Stansfield`s contribution, with 19 goals so far, has been vital to their strong promotion push. Birmingham City secured their automatic promotion spot with a high points tally.
Wrexham`s captivating journey under owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney continues with a third consecutive promotion. While reaching the Premier League next season presents a formidable challenge, their recent history suggests nothing is beyond their reach. Manager Phil Parkinson has proven highly adept, navigating team selections effectively and ensuring The Dragons continue their upward trajectory by making sound strategic decisions.
Promoted to League One
- Doncaster Rovers
- Port Vale
Luke Molyneux enjoyed an outstanding season for Doncaster Rovers, contributing 16 goals and 12 assists to their promotion effort. For a club that fell from the Championship in 2014, this marks a significant step in their potential climb back. Port Vale, managed by Darren Moore, holds a notable record as the club with the longest tenure (113 seasons) in the EFL without ever reaching the top flight. They are now back in League One, having been relegated from the division just last season.
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley