Both of these second-tier heavyweights competed for automatic promotion after their respective relegations last term, but Leeds were denied on the final day and Southampton’s record 25-match unbeaten run that followed an initially tough start under Russell Martin was ultimately not enough as the two sides finished third and fourth respectively. But there was to be no play-off hangover, with Norwich and West Brom both confidently dispatched in home semi-final deciders after goalless first-leg draws.
