Author: Soorya G
The composition of the Premier League and Championship for the 2023/24 season was confirmed on the last day of soccer action in England. Former Premier League champions Leicester City and Leeds United were relegated, joining Southampton, who will also play in the Championship, at least next season. Leicester, who have been sensational in the Premier League in recent phases, starting with their title win in 2015/16, will be disheartened by relegation, as will Leeds United, who on several occasions have demonstrated their ability to play wonderful soccer. Southampton, on the other hand, whose relegation was confirmed a few weeks ago, have more or less come to terms with their fate following the resignation of Ralph Hassenhuttl. In their place, Burnley, Sheffield United and Luton Town will move up from the Championship.
Burnley, who returned to England’s top flight after just one year in the Premier League, were victorious under Manchester City great Vincent Kompany. The team managed a 101-point season, winning the championship by ten points. It’s interesting to note that former Burnley manager Sean Dyche, who took over at Everton in place of Frank Lampard, also managed to survive. Dyche had already been promoted three times with Burnley in a very successful tenure. The Clarets will be a tough opponent and could spring a surprise next season.
Sheffield United will return after a two-season break from top flight soccer. The Blades were relegated in 2020/21, but have managed to bounce back with a similar core of players, including Ollie McBurnie and Sander Berge. Their defense was strengthened by the presence of Anel Ahmedhodzic, who emerged as one of the best defenders in the league. The win over West Brom, who were also relegated with them in 2020/21, ensured their presence in the Premier League for next season.
Luton Town ‘s campaign was an exciting one, as they failed to qualify directly. The team took part in the playoffs, where they beat Sunderland and then faced Coventry City in the final. It was a back and forth game in which Luton went ahead early on, but Coventry equalized and took the game to penalties. Luton managed to keep their cool and won 6-5, confirming their first appearance in England’s top flight in the Premier League era. It’s also worth noting that Luton were in the fifth tier of English soccer not long ago.