AN emotional Nigel Adkins hailed Saints’ “fantastic” achievement as the club secured promotion back to the Premier League.

The manager was choking back the tears after watching his team destroy Coventry 4-0 to book a place in the top flight.

“Isn’t it fantastic, Southampton are back in the Premier League,” declared Adkins. “I’m very, very proud and honoured. I’m a happy man.”

The Saints boss paid tribute to his players, as well as all the other people at the club, for their role in what has been achieved.

“They deserve all the plaudits they get, because they’ve been magnificent since I joined this football club,” said Adkins.

“They’ve worked so hard every day, they’re so professional, and the coaching staff we’ve got, the medical staff, everyone at this football club has worked their socks off.”