Promotion in any of England’s football leagues is a remarkable achievement, but achieving it two years in a row is even more impressive. Rarely do we witness teams rise through the divisions so swiftly, but it is indeed possible, as we have witnessed with Wrexham’s recent success. Ipswich Town is now just a single point away from adding their name to the list of teams that have secured back-to-back promotions.
The Tractor Boys have dominated League One and are poised to finish as runners-up, granting them a return to the Premier League after more than two decades away from the top-flight. This achievement, while rare, is not unprecedented. Let’s take a closer look at the other English sides that have managed this outstanding feat.
Wycombe Wanderers, under the guidance of Martin O’Neill, secured promotion from the Conference by winning the title, and then followed it up by securing a spot in the old Second Division through the playoffs. Similarly, Doncaster Rovers and Carlisle also managed to achieve back-to-back promotions in the early 2000s, underlining the difficulty of such an accomplishment.
Exeter, Stevenage, and Crawley all succeeded in reaching League Two from the National League, and then subsequently securing promotions to League One in the following season. Their remarkable efforts exemplify the determination and skill required to achieve successive ascents through the rankings. Additionally, Bristol Rovers’ return to League One and Wrexham’s recent extraordinary performances further emphasise the exceptional nature of this accomplishment.
Moving up from League Two to the Championship, Bury, Brighton, Rotherham, Peterborough, and Burton Albion also achieved back-to-back promotions, demonstrating that success in lower divisions can indeed lead to greater opportunities in higher tiers of English football. Each of these teams’ journeys showcases the dedication, talent, and perseverance required for such a remarkable feat.
Finally, teams like Watford, Manchester City, Southampton, and Norwich are testament to the fact that determination and resilience are key in securing back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League. Their extraordinary successes represent an inspiration to other clubs aiming for similar achievements.
Ipswich Town’s impending accomplishment is a testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as a validation of their place in the upper echelons of English football. Their journey serves as an inspiration to other aspiring teams, proving that with the right approach, determination, and talent, anything is possible in the world of English football.