Coventry return to Premier League after long absence

Blackburn winger Ryoya Morishita put the home side ahead after 54 minutes but Bobby Thomas equalised six minutes from time to the delight of the visiting fans.

The result put Coventry 11 points clear of second-placed Ipswich Town and 13 ahead of third-placed Millwall.

The top two go up automatically, while the teams from third to sixth take part in a playoff to see which other club will join them.

Lampard's side have looked a good bet for promotion for the entire season with what is both the best attack and the stingiest defence.

They were in the top flight for 34 years from 1967-2001 but their only major trophy was the FA Cup in 1987.

Friday's result left Blackburn in 16th, three places and five points above the relegation zone.