Congratulations are in order for the mighty Sky Blues, who have been promoted to the Premier League. Mayor of Coventry, Rachel Lancaster, said she was overjoyed that they were now 'back where they belong.'
It marks the end of a remarkable journey for the Sky Blues, who were relegated from the top flight in the 2000s and faced years of fluctuating fortunes and financial challenges. Climbing back to the Premier League highlights the players' skill and the loyalty of their fans.
Under Frank Lampard, Coventry City battled past tough rivals such as Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion, ultimately securing promotion to the Premier League after 25 years. Fans have been celebrating today (April 18), and the Mayor of Coventry said the city is a 'happier place.'
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Speaking to CoventryLive Mayor Lancaster said: “Congratulations, Sky Blues! A return to the Premier League after 25 years is a fantastic achievement, and thank you so much for sparing us the agony of the play-offs.
“We are so proud of you, the players, manager, coaching staff, owner, and everyone at Coventry City FC. You have done something amazing.
“When the results came through, and promotion was finally confirmed, I am sure there were people cheering in houses across the city. I know it was a crazy few minutes in mine!
Mayor Rachel Lancaster
Mayor Rachel Lancaster(Image: CoventryLive)
“As a Cov kid, the Sky Blues have always been a part of my life. From the joy of '87 and from Highfield Road to the CBS and the hard times in between, I have seen how loved they are.
“You really can see what it means to people when the team wins, there are more smiles and laughter, and the city is a happier place. Premier League is where the Sky Blues belong, and I cannot wait to see them take to the pitch against the greats of the game next season.
“It puts Coventry on a worldwide sporting stage. I know how hard Coventry City has worked for this success. Being a Premier League team does not come easy, there have been hard days, disappointments and injuries.
“I hope that knowing what it means for the city and its people helps those tough times melt away. As you look around Coventry, you see new developments taking place as we build for the future.
“Now there is even more to look forward to and more to get excited about. So thank you, Sky Blues, for all you have done for the city this season and over those 25 long years as you have worked so hard and battled so bravely to put us back where we belong. I look forward to cheering you on at the CBS next season in the Premier League.”
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Coventry City are back in the Premier League
The Coventry Telegraph has produced a stunning special edition marking the achievements of Frank Lampard and his men.
And to celebrate, the Coventry Telegraph has produced this stunning 48-page special edition marking the achievements of Frank Lampard and his men.
Since relegation in 2001, the Sky Blues have gone through many well-documented lows, but a quarter of a century later, free-scoring City have earned promotion in emphatic style.
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And our bumper special edition is the perfect souvenir to remember that fantastic achievement by.
We'll have match reports, pics, and reaction from every kick of City's journey back to English football's promised land.
It's all here... the avalanche of goals pre-Christmas that made promotion look nailed on, the brief wobble that followed, and the revival under Lampard to consolidate their position at the top of the table.
Plus, Sky Blues writer Andy Turner will have pages and pages of in-depth analysis on the title-winning season, manager Lampard's success, key players, and what lies ahead for the club in the top flight.
Club historian Jim Brown will also share his fact-filled take on promotion, while there will be pictures and reports from the Sky Blues' joyful promotion celebrations.
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