Southampton defeated Leeds United 1-0 on Sunday, to seal an immediate return to the Premier League.
Adam Armstrong’s first-half goal was decisive in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final.
Last time the Saints were relegated from the top flight in 2005 it took seven years to return.
But this time they got the job done far more efficiently under Russell Martin.
Leeds, meanwhile, will have to battle it out in the second tier for another season.
Southampton boss Russell Martin told Sky Sports: “I feel emotional and overwhelmed by the love and support I’ve had over the past nine or 10 months especially in the tougher times.
“The support from the board, I had to validate their decision and justify being handed the chance.
“I’m so pleased for them because it wasn’t an exciting appointment. I’d finish 10th with Swansea, had a very clear way of doing things at MK Dons so for them to take me on was really brave.
“The team have been so brave and I’m grateful and proud of them.”
