Former Reading goalkeepers Alex McCarthy and Joe Lumley are officially Premier League players after Southampton beat Leeds United in Sunday's Championship play-off final.
Adam Armstrong's goal in the first half was enough for a 1-0 win in the Saints' favour, sealing an immediate return back to the top flight.
34-year-old McCarthy, who rose through the ranks in Berkshire to make over 75 appearances for the Royals, failed to make a league appearance until April but played in the last five regular matches and all three of the playoff games for Russell Martin's side.
"The changing room was all over the place... he's built something special" š«
ā Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) May 26, 2024
Southampton keeper Alex McCarthy waxes lyrical about manager Russell Martin after securing promotion š pic.twitter.com/8FMS4zEnkw
He was in fine form at Wembley Stadium, keeping his second clean sheet in three matches to ensure Leeds United remain in the second tier.
It marked the end of his eighth campaign on the south coast where he has made nearly 200 appearances.
Former Reading and Southampton teammate Shane Long was in attendance at Wembley to cheer on Southampton.
Great day out, great company & a great win!!! @StevenDavis8 @SouthamptonFC pic.twitter.com/F6HV31BGQO
ā Shane Long (@ShaneLong7) May 26, 2024
Lumley, who played 42 times on loan for Reading last season, moved to St Mary's in the summer but only registered four FA Cup appearances in his debut campaign.
Southampton join Leicester City and Ipswich Town in reaching the Premier League.
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