Sheffield United can start planning for life in the Premier League after finishing the Championship season in second place behind Norwich City.

Chris Wilder's side produced a consistent run at the end of the season to ensure they sealed an automatic promotion spot ahead of Leeds United after a highly impressive season.

Northern Ireland midfielder Oliver Norwood has been a pivotal cog in the Blades' midfield this season in his third consecutive promotion-winning season.

The 28-year-old went up with Brighton & Hove Albion before helping Fulham to play-off success last season, but he never featured in the top-flight for either side.

Norwood will now be hoping it is third time lucky as he targets his Premier League breakthrough, and he has claimed he is now up to the challenge.

“I just hope the gaffer doesn’t sell me,” he joked when speaking to the Yorkshire Post.

“You never know what can happen in football. No, seriously, I want to show the Premier League what I can do.

“I have worked hard over the last three seasons to get there, as all the group has. We deserve our chance so we will go in there and enjoy it. I think we can bring a real freshness to the league.”

Norwood has made 43 Championship appearances for the Blades this season, scoring three goals and registering nine assists.

The Verdict

Norwood has had a string of impressive Championship seasons, but this has been his best campaign yet.

His calming midfield presence has shown he is ready for the top-flight and he will surely keep his place in Wilder's side next term.

His comments suggest he has been frustrated by his lack of Premier League experience so far, but he's finally found the right club for him to make his mark with in Sheffield United.