How Norwich celebrated promotion to the Premier League

It wasn't how they wanted to do it, but Norwich were promoted to the Premier League on Saturday...despite a 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth.

The Canaries knew they were up when they kicked off against the Cherries. Brentford and Swansea previously dropping points meant Norwich were 14 points clear of third place with four games to spare, and they started off looking like the best side in the division.

Emiliano Buendia got the hosts off to a flyer, but a red card to Dimitris Giannoulis soon made things difficult for Daniel Farke's team. Bournemouth battled back, but it mattered not to Norwich, who had celebrations to enjoy.

The decision to stand by Farke in the summer despite their relegation last term has paid off. Norwich might have been forgiven for parting ways with the German boss after they picked up just 21 points in the top flight, but they stuck it out, feeling he was the best man for the job of bouncing back.

They've stormed the Championship this term, rolling over all comers and scoring 66 goals so far in the process.

At the middle of all that was Teemu Pukki, who has netted 25 times and once again looks like one of their players of the season. He celebrated with a beer alongside fellow strikers Adam Idah and Jordan Hugill.

The Canaries only found out they were up hours ahead of kick-off. Which was a shame for assist king Emiliano Buendia, who was just trying to sneak in an afternoon siesta when their top-flight status was confirmed.

Hate it when that happens.

It didn't stop him breaking out a little bit of the bubbly after the fact, though...

Norwich couldn't have done it without their first-choice keeper Tim Krul. The Dutchman has been in inspired form this season, conceding just 16 goals in his 32 league appearances to help his side back out of the second tier.

The 33-year-old is under contract until 2024 and looks set to be their starting keeper back in the Premier League unless something changes.

23-year-old Todd Cantwell also had one of the best seasons of his career so far. He was heavily linked with a move in the summer, but had no problem sticking around to aid the promotion charge this season.

Despite an injury-hit start, he has recovered to play a major role. His six goals and five assists, most of which coming since the turn of the year, have been crucial for the Canaries.

There is still work to do for Norwich who need four more points to be sure of their status as champions.

But no matter what happens, they know what league they will be playing in next season.