The reality of Saints' promotion was slowly sinking in today after a night of celebration that the club's loyal fans will never forget.

Fans partied hard after the final whistle when the club's return to the richest league in world football after a seven year absence was finally realised.

Meanwhile 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.

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.

Despite the celebrations following the final whistle at St Mary's, Adkins revealed the failure to claim the Championship title still grates with him.

A stumble in form towards the end of the campaign allowed Reading to sneak into top spot above Southampton but, while Adkins is evidently frustrated his side were not crowned champions, he was delighted to have secured automatic promotion.

"It's a great achievement to get promoted, I'm gutted we haven't won the league to be honest, I really wanted to win the league so we'll have to get over that," he said.

"It's very soon after the game so it's very emotional still. I'm just trying to take it all in.

"I won the League One title with Scunny (Scunthorpe) and it's a similar feeling. That weight is off your shoulders, that burden - you're doing everything you can to keep everybody focused and all of a sudden you've achieved it.

"Now we've got to look at a new set of goals. We've achieved that, we've got to go and achieve something else."