Adkins to savour Saints promotion

Nigel Adkins admitted he would enjoy a glass of bubbly after guiding his Southampton side to "something special" - promotion to the Barclays Premier League.

The Saints boss praised the character and professionalism of his players over the course of the entire campaign after goals from Billy Sharp, Jose Fonte, Jos Hooiveld and Adam Lallana saw off lowly Coventry 4-0 and propelled the south coast club back to the top flight. After a seven-year absence, during which Southampton have endured two seasons in League One, Premier League football will return to St Mary's from August. And Adkins, who has now led the Saints to back-to-back promotions, was not about to shy away from the magnitude of such an achievement. "We've put a lot of hard work in and a lot of hours but we've achieved something special this season," he said. "We achieved something special last season and I suppose it's that drive to do well. Everyone works so hard at this football club and it's great to see the smiles and delight on the supporters' faces. "It's been a nervy week for them but it's been well worth it. Every plaudit that goes their way they richly deserve because they've worked hard for it. "I need to let it all soak in but it's been very, very special. I'd like to think I'm going to have a glass of champagne tonight because that's what you should do if you win."