Jubilant scenes as hard-fought draw sends Coventry back to Premier League after 25 years wait

Coventry City clinched a return to the Premier League for the first time since 2001 after drawing at Blackburn Rovers 1-1 in the Championship on Saturday (AEST).

Frank Lampard’s men were second best for much of the game but one point was enough to secure a historic return to the top tier, sparking jubilant celebrations from the Sky Blues boss, his players and 7,500 Coventry fans at Ewood Park.

Redemption was an emotional moment for Lampard, who wiped away tears of joy after the final whistle.

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"Everything I've ever done in my career has been a point to prove to be honest. It's been in me since I was a young player. You are always fighting against something," said Lampard.

"We came into a bit of an unknown. We've fallen in love and this is right up there with what I have achieved. I'm very proud to be the manager."

Blackburn winger Ryōya Morishita put the home side ahead after 54 minutes but Bobby Thomas equalized six minutes from time to the delight of the visiting fans.

The result put Coventry 11 points clear of second-placed Ipswich Town and 13 ahead of third-placed Millwall.

The top two go up automatically, while the teams from third to sixth take part in a playoff to see which other club will join them.

Lampard’s side has looked a good bet for promotion for the entire season with what is both the best attack and the stingiest defence.

It was in the top flight for 34 years from 1967-2001 but its only major trophy was the FA Cup in 1987.

They crashed into the fourth tier in 2017 and were homeless for three seasons during a legal battle over their stadium.

The game's result left Blackburn in 16th, three places and five points above the relegation zone.