Nottingham Forest ended their 23-year wait for Premier League football with a narrow win over Huddersfield Town in the Championship play-off final at Wembley – a victory worth about £170m.
Promotion back to the top flight caps a brilliant turnaround to their season, which had started with six defeats in seven.
Levi Colwill’s own goal from James Garner’s cross was the decisive moment.
Town improved after the break but struggled to create a big chance.
Their best opportunity saw Harry Toffolo booked for diving in the area by referee Jon Moss, officiating for the final time before retiring, and, although replays suggested Jack Colback had made some contact, it was not overturned by VAR.
Forest held out in the face of mounting pressure to spark scenes of jubilation and end their two-decade exile from the Premier League.
“We are a a big football club, we know that it’s full of history and tradition. We stand on that, proud,” manager Steve Cooper told BBC Radio Nottingham.
“I’ve always said ‘let’s try to create a next positive chapter’ and we have managed to do that.
“For everyone connected to the football club this is a day to be proud of. They deserve to be back in the Premier League where they belong.”
Forest’s Nottingham-born captain Joe Worrall said he felt “on top of the world” after leading his hometown club back to the Premier League.
“It’s been a tough football club at times, and all that has been repaid today, Forest are back in the Premier League,” he said. “I can’t believe I’m saying those words, but we’re over the moon.
“I’m looking forward to testing myself and being on Match of the Day.”
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