English League Championship: Sheffield United were promoted to the Premiership after a 12-year absence on Saturday. The Yorkshire club secured the second automatic promotion place after fourth-placed Leeds United were held to a 1-1 draw by champions Reading.

United, who have languished in the second tier of English football since their relegation from the Premiership in the 1993-94 season, won 1-0 at Cardiff City on Friday night to move on to 85 points with three games left to play.

"It's a marvellous feeling. It's the greatest achievement in my career as a manager because there are so many big clubs below us and it's such a hard league," manager Neil Warnock, born in Sheffield and a lifelong fan of the Blades, said.

The Bramall Lane side made a flying start to the season, winning 10 of their first 11 matches but it was Reading who proved to be the division's outstanding side, running away with the title which they secured at the start of April.

United began to falter in February and March, giving hope to Leeds and Watford, before they recovered their composure.

Warnock, who took charge in December 1999, believes his side can match Wigan Athletic next season and stay in the top flight against the odds. Unfashionable Wigan have enjoyed a fine debut season in the Premier League and currently sit in mid-table.

Rob Hulse fired Leeds United in front at Elland Road before Stephen Hunt's goal five minutes from time earned Reading a draw to take Steve Coppell's side on to 99 points.

Leeds United will now contest the play-offs along with Watford, Preston North End and Crystal Palace.

Promoted

Reading, Sheffield Utd

Play-offs:

Watford, Leeds Utd, Preston NE, Crystal Palace