Championship play-off final as it happened

1. Norwich City promoted to Premier League
2. FT: Middlesbrough 0-2 Norwich
3. Jerome & Redmond scored inside 15 mins
4. Promotion worth estimated £120m

Norwich promoted

Here you go then, Norwich fans. The moment that confirms you are back in the top flight after only one season away...

PA

Enjoy the celebrations tonight, and we'll see you in the Premier League in August.

Thanks for your company today, and indeed throughout this play-off final weekend. We promised drama, delight and dejection, and the three games we saw didn't disappoint.

PA

So, we were expecting today's play-off final to be a tense, tight and cagey affair. But in the event, two goals in four first-half minutes from these two were enough to send Norwich City back to the Premier League.

Cameron Jerome's neat finish put the Canaries ahead, before Nathan Redmond emphatically finished off a fine team move to make it 2-0.

Middlesbrough - who had arrived late at Wembley after being stuck in traffic - never really recovered from that, and Norwich ran out comfortable winners.

For more details, you may well - especially Norwich fans - want to read Phil Shepka's match report from Wembley.

Norwich defender Steven Whittaker tells BBC Radio 5 live: "The fans have been great. We're going to enjoy tonight.

"We knew we had to get off to a great start. The boys worked their socks off and we deserved it.

"Nothing is easy in this game and we worked hard to achieve it. We knew we had the squad. We were unlucky not to go up automatically. We put it right today."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tony Mullin: I wonder if Suarez might be tempted back to Liverpool now Norwich are back in the Premier League? Just a thought.

Robert Scott: As a Norwich fan, I am glad that Liverpool have sold Suarez and (therefore) am not as pessimistic for our return.

Former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, now with Barcelona, scored 11 goals and created two more in just five games against the Canaries.

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Norwich captain Russell Martin tells Sky Sports: "It's emotional after being relegated last year, which was so hard to take.

"Middlesbrough have been brilliant all season, but we came here and put in our most accomplished performance of the season.

"We knew we had big-game players, people who've been there and done it, and it paid off today."

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"I can't wait to see how Bournemouth do, and Watford too, who have the best scouting network anywhere.

"Every manager, left, right and centre, me included, is getting the sack. The pressure will be on.

"Teams like Sunderland and Newcastle are going to have to step up to the plate."

Norwich defender Sebastien Bassong tells Sky Sports: "The season started really badly for me, but I dug in and got a great reward with being promoted with two teams. I wouldn't have changed it for anything."

Out of favour at Norwich, Bassong joined Watford on loan in October and returned to Carrow Road to help the Canaries to the Premier League.

PA

Well, 25 May is becoming Alex Neil's lucky day.

This time last year, he was Hamilton's player-manager and celebrating promotion to the top flight in Scotland.

Today - the same achievement, just in a different country.

Norwich midfielder Jonny Howson tells BBC Radio 5 live: "It's a terrific moment. We have worked so hard and had ups and downs this season. This will be with us for the rest of our lives.

"We knew we had to get off to a good start, because they can be hard to break down.

"I'm over the moon. It is going to take a while to sink in. Occasions like this - it is why you play football."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Stu: Whoever thought to appoint Alex Neil as manager is a genius.

Lewis Squires: Well the Premier league will certainly be 'yellower' next season. #Norwich. #Watford.

Tom McLeish: What a day, my 19th wedding anniversary and my mighty Norwich promoted to the Premier League. Day to remember.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

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Norwich's joint majority shareholder Delia Smith tells Sky Sports: "When we went down to League One (in 2009), our supporters still bought tickets and they've stuck with our club. They deserve it and I'm so pleased for them.

"The manager is so calm and he wasn't at all panicked. He's been outstanding and I can't praise him enough. He inspires me, let alone the players."

Sadly for Middlesbrough, it's the Championship for them again next season. What a wonderful campaign they've had, and they only fell short of promotion at the very final hurdle.

But Wembley is all about winners. Today, Norwich have won promotion and earned themselves a cool £120m.

More reaction from the Canaries' camp on the way...

More from Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka: "It's amazing to be here. It's not our moment now. It's a big step forward this season and we have to keep going the same way because this club, this crowd and this city deserve to be in the Premier League. I will start tomorrow to prepare for next season because it's my job."

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Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka tells Sky Sports: "It's difficult because this team have done everything this season to get promotion. They played better, they didn't make mistakes, we made two mistakes, and in a final you pay for those mistakes.

"But we have to be proud of the players and this crowd."

Delia Smith is on the Wembley turf and has her hands on the play-off trophy. A huge cheer from the Norwich supporters, who are understandably staying inside the ground to celebrate promotion.

More from Cameron Jerome, scorer of Norwich's first goal: "I caught the defender in possession and got in the box. I was looking for a cut back but the defender cut off the angle, so I went for the near post and I was lucky to squeeze it in.

"I'm glad to get on the scoresheet, but more importantly we got over the line today."

AFP

Norwich winger Nathan Redmond tells BBC Radio 5 live: "It was about a team today. The boys did it. The passage of play before my goal was a team effort.

"I'm extremely proud of the boys. We'll have a good summer and we'll get back to work."

AFP

Norwich manager Alex Neil tells Sky Sports: "I believed we would do it, but it's one thing believing it and another thing doing it.

"Big players arrive on the big stage and you saw that in the first 20 minutes - we were unbelievable.

"We worked so hard to get here. The worst thing you can do is walk off having been scared."

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"We thought it was going to be tight. Middlesbrough let two goals in and then they couldn't change the script. Well done to Norwich. I'm sure they'll grace the Premier League, and Middlesbrough will come again with this manager."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Matthew Bennett: Congratulations to Norwich City. Fantastic managerial shuffle brought that about. Brilliant British manager. Refreshing.

Ifcway: Congratulations Norwich City. Quick return to the Premier League. Fully deserved.

Ashley Wilkinson: Congratulations #NCFC. The three best teams, consistently, across the season have gone up. Thoroughly deserved.

So how will Norwich fare in the top flight next season? Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Norwich captain Russell Martin does the honours - the trophy is lifted, signifying that the Canaries are back in the Premier League again next season.

More reaction on the way, but the Norwich players are heading up those famous steps to collect their trophy.

Norwich striker Cameron Jerome tells Sky Sports: "It's amazing. It's been a long old season.

"We were both unlucky to miss out on automatic promotion. Someone's got to lose and it's unfortunate for them.

"We were magnificent today. We moved the ball well and we were deserved winners."

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"I'm quite excited about the three that have come up. I think they're going to be wonderful to watch next year.

"Norwich are a welcome addition. Whatever happens, we're going to have a great time watching them."

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Some red smoke drifts across Wembley from the Boro end but soon all that will remain of that colour will be on the seats.

"Norwich boss Alex Neil looked amazingly calm at the final whistle but that briefly ended when he was swallowed up by the club's coaching staff.

"He eventually emerged and strolled casually across the Wembley turf like a man on a Sunday stroll.

"A man in front of me in a Juninho shirt is crying his eyes out."

First-half goals from Cameron Jerome and Nathan Redmond secure an immediate return to the top flight for Norwich City. Alex Neil's mission is complete.

The men in yellow take acclaim from the fans in yellow.

Reaction to come from Wembley shortly...

FULL-TIME

BBC

NORWICH CITY WIN THE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFF FINAL AND ARE PROMOTED TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

CapitalR: As much as Boro have been poor, Norwich have been fantastic, very organised and worked hard to close down. Fully deserved win.

Tim Tyler: Norwich City now staking a claim to be the yo-yo club the decade.

Simon Parker: Always nice to see the team that finishes in third and with more goals win the play-off final!

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Four minutes of added time to play.

Time running out for Middlesbrough. Norwich manager Alex Neil is as demanding of his players in the last minute as he was in the first.

SUBSTITUTION

Gary O'Neil is on for Norwich, in place of Norwich goalscorer Nathan Redmond, who's had an excellent day.

Remember O'Neil's contribution to last season's play-off final? He was sent off for bringing down a Derby player who was clean through on goal with the game scoreless. Hopefully for his sake, he'll last the final four minutes and stoppage time here.

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

Empics

"Alex Neil's first match of the season was against Arbroath, in front of 730 people. How times change."

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Nathan Redmond lost the ball close to the Boro area. No worries? Not according to boss Alex Neil, who threw his drink to the ground in fury.

"Moments later, after Boro's counter broke down, Neil yelled in the direction of Redmond and remonstrated with his player. The sort of demands and standards that will still see him manage in the Premier League? Looks that way."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Paul Collins: Given a lot of people didn't know who he was when they hired him, what a job Alex Neil has done for Norwich. Brilliant.

Uli Hebel: Do you smell what Delia Smith is cooking? Norwich promotion!

Well, Uli, Sebastien Bassong has been 'The Rock' at the back for Norwich this afternoon. Sorry, couldn't resist that.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"That's a great opportunity for Ayala. What a magnificent chance."

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Middlesbrough are becoming increasingly camped inside Norwich territory but they've only forced goalkeeper John Ruddy into one save. Ruddy would have had no chance of keeping out Daniel Ayala's header from a corner - thankfully for Ruddy, Ayala's effort is blocked on the line by substitute Lewis Grabban.

Appeals for a penalty from Middlesbrough but the handball shouts are waved away by referee Mike Dean.

Norwich just 10 minutes away from promotion and a place in next season's Premier League, unless something freakish happens. It will take something very, very special from Middlesbrough to deny Norwich now.

Norwich get a free-kick 25 yards out, as Graham Dorrans' surging run is ended illegally by Kike. Dorrans and Nathan Redmond stand over it. Redmond takes and it's a couple of yards wide.

Empics

More than 85,000 fans inside Wembley today. Norwich looking comfortable.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Norwich are making a double change, with Lewis Grabban and Graham Dorrans coming on for Cameron Jerome and Wes Hoolahan.

We saw a wonderful striker's display from Preston's hat-trick hero Jermaine Beckford yesterday. Jerome's performance has been on a par, if not better, today.

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"I can't see Middlesbrough getting back in it. Norwich are so comfortable. Their two centre backs haven't been caused a problem, unlike what Cameron Jerome is doing to Gibson and Ayala. At the moment, it's almost cigar time for Norwich."

Patrick Bamford almost gets on the end of a through ball ahead of advancing Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy but the Middlesbrough striker can't quite get a meaningful touch on the ball. From the next passage of play, substitute Kike turns the ball across goal but there's nobody in red inside the six-yard box to tuck it away.

SUBSTITUTION

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Kike is on for Jelle Vossen. A change up front for Boro.

The Norwich corner comes in from Nathan Redmond and captain Russell Martin heads over from six yards. Could, perhaps should, have been 3-0.

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If Middlesbrough are going to get back into this one, winger Albert Adomah looks the most likely to create them a lifeline. He stands up another cross but Norwich clear safely.

More great work from Cameron Jerome at the other end wins a corner for the Canaries. He's been outstanding today.

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Both managers have spent the entire match stood at the edge of their technical areas, which at Wembley is a substantial distance from the dug-out.

"Norwich boss Alex Neil seems to kick every ball, never wastes a chance to issue instructions to any player within earshot and has a shrill whistle that carries across Wembley if he wants to make a point to anyone in-field."

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Rajiv in Roehampton: "Boro have put their heart, body and soul into this season. They need to dig deep now if they're to have any chance in this one."

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

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"Aitor Karanka has pushed three up front. They are occupying the whole Norwich back four now. If Middlesbrough score, we would have a real game on our hands. It just makes you wonder where Middlesbrough were in the first half."

YELLOW CARD

Some great front play from Cameron Jerome puts the Middlesbrough defence under pressure. Boro regroup and win it back, then Norwich midfielder Jonny Howson trips Lee Tomlin inside the Middlesbrough half and gets booked.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

PA

"It's been a completely different Middlesbrough performance in the second half. They, all of a sudden, look as if they're playing a part in this game."

Patrick Bamford is involved in the play-off final for the second year in succession. In 2014, he was a late substitute for Derby as the Rams lost 1-0 to 10-man QPR at Wembley.

Today's not been his day either. Middlesbrough still 2-0 down to first-half goals from Cameron Jerome and Nathan Redmond.

Finally, Patrick Bamford gets into the action. Lee Tomlin pokes a ball through to Middlesbrough's top scorer, who turns on the edge of the box and puts in a low shot. Goalkeeper John Ruddy makes a smart save down to his left.

YELLOW CARD

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Middlesbrough go on the attack and Jelle Vossen wins it back brilliantly near the corner flag. He dances past Wes Hoolahan and goes down just outside the box, but referee Mike Dean says it's a dive and books the Boro man for simulation.

George Friend does his utmost to raise his Middlesbrough team-mates and the crowd as he wins another corner for his side. It's whipped in from the left towards Daniel Ayala, but the big defender can't divert it on target and it's another goal kick.

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "You've got to feel for the Boro fans. They are absolutely desperate but feeding on scraps here. Precious little to encourage them.

"Their players and fans are becoming increasingly frustrated. A couple of times skipper Grant Leadbitter has visibly implored his players to keep their heads. Still plenty of time..." 

Empics

Cameron Jerome, scorer of Norwich's first goal, appears to be struggling a little. If he has to go off, there's not a shortage of attacking options on the bench for manager Alex Neil. Gary Hooper and Lewis Grabban, both with 12 goals each this season, are more than able deputies.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"It's taken them 50 minutes to get behind the Norwich defence and start to ask questions. There are just signs, some signs now, that they can get back into this."

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Middlesbrough are attacking their own fans in the second half and they find their voice as Albert Adomah's cross is turned behind for a corner by Sebastien Bassong. Daniel Ayala heads the corner over, but that's better from Boro.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"Sometimes in games, conceding a goal doesn't have an effect on a team. But when Middlesbrough conceded the first goal, their body language did not look right at all."

Norwich midfielder Bradley Johnson is down near the touchline, holding the back of his head after an aerial challenge. Seems to be fine, though.

The first chance of the second period goes Norwich's way, as the diminutive figure of Wes Hoolahan finds his way through the Middlesbrough defence but can't get much power on his shot from 18 yards.

KICK-OFF

Middlesbrough kick off, with a huge 45 minutes ahead for Aitor Karanka's side.

SUBSTITUTION

Ready for the second half? We're about to get under way again at Wembley.

Middlesbrough have made a half-time change, with Emilio Nsue coming on in place of Dean Whitehead.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Toby Foot: Leyton Orient were 2-0 up in the League One play-off final last year, so it could all still go wrong for Norwich. Next goal is key."

Orient lost to Rotherham on penalties, then were relegated earlier this month...

Michael Griffin: Any chance Jose will call his friend at half-time and help him out?

Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka was part of Jose Mourinho's coaching staff at Real Madrid.

Paulo: 1995 final at half-time: Bolton 0-2 Reading. Finished Bolton 4-3 Reading AET. Hope for Boro yet.

That's the last time a team failed to win a second-tier play-off final after being 2-0 ahead.

Can Boro pull of a remarkable comeback? Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Vote result

Remember the vote from earlier? We asked who you thought would emerge victorious from today's play-off final.

Well, 55.9% of you plumped for Middlesbrough and 44.1% for Norwich, who lead 2-0 at Wembley with first-half goals from Cameron Jerome and Nathan Redmond.

Thanks to all who took part.

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"Boro have to take a risk and do something different. Lee Tomlin out wide on the left is not working."

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"It is no more than Norwich have deserved. Middlesbrough look shellshocked. They've not looked like they are going to get back into this game at any stage."

Boro beaten?

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Middlesbrough's run to the Uefa Cup final in 2006 was built on stunning comeback wins against Steaua Bucharest and FC Basel. Those glorious nights are still talked about on Teesside.

If they pull this one back from two goals down at half-time, it will go into Boro folklore.

Norwich on top

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Think back to January, when Norwich were looking like Championship also-rans. Since Alex Neil's arrival, the Canaries have found their wings. And today, they've flown majestically into a 2-0 lead with two wonderful goals, the first a composed finish from Cameron Jerome and the second a powerful angled drive by Nathan Redmond.

This play-off final is theirs to lose.

HALF-TIME

Referee Mike Dean wants a quick word with Norwich captain Russell Martin after a foul on Middlesbrough's Lee Tomlin. No card, just a warning. Another poor free-kick from Boro is cleared to safety by the Norwich defence.

Two minutes of added time to play.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

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"I cannot see Middlesbrough getting back into this for love or money. They have looked less likely to get a goal as the game has gone on. It's been an extremely comfortable afternoon so far for Norwich."

Norwich have a spell on the ball inside the Middlesbrough half but the attack fizzles out. Can they get a killer third before half-time?

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "You left Middlesbrough at dawn. You travelled down and were outside the ground hours before kick-off, soaking up the milky sun and the atmosphere on Wembley Way.

"You sang with great heart and enthusiasm before the final started. You've hardly been able to sit down since it kicked off, arguably even less so since the Boro conceded.

"You've been urging your team on, trying to get them back into the game. You're desperate.

"You just might be sat/stood in front of me."

Middlesbrough's Jelle Vossen, who hit the crossbar in the first 10 minutes with the score at 0-0, heads wide for a goal kick.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"When you're 2-0 down, you have to take risks that otherwise you might not do. Middlesbrough's forwards are feeding off scraps so far."

Grant Leadbitter puts in a corner, which goalkeeper John Ruddy punches clear, but they have another to follow...

PA

Middlesbrough striker Patrick Bamford looks an increasingly isolated figure in this match. He's hardly seen the ball, and when it's pumped forward to him, the on-loan Chelsea man has been well shackled by Sebastien Bassong and Russell Martin.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Martins Onotafe: What a game. Middlesbrough should get their shabby defence organised.

Matt Bush: Alex Neil has got City playing a different brand of football to the Hughton days. Positive play entertains and it works.

Lewis: Ball in Norwich's court now. It's down to Alex Neil to keep them focused, and based on his impact since coming in, he can.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Reuters

Middlesbrough give away possession very tamely on the edge of their own box. Fortunately for them, the Norwich attack comes to nothing. Next goal in this one is absolutely vital - if Norwich get it, you sense that would be game over.

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"That's three goals and five assists in his last seven appearances for Nathan Redmond. He's in Gareth Southgate's Under-21 squad and he's got Roy Hodgson watching him today. If Norwich go up, it could be a very big season for Redmond next season."

Probably the quietest spell of the match leads to the television cameras picking out Delia Smith in the director's box. She responds to the cheers of the Norwich fans with a wave.

If you've missed anything from this weekend's three play-off finals, watch The Football League Show at 23:25 BST on BBC One, including extended highlights of Middlesbrough v Norwich City.

A half-chance for Boro's Jelle Vossen but he heads well wide.

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Boro fans stunned and desperate; trying to raise their team but they need to raise themselves.

"Norwich's use of the space between Boro's white-wash hugging full-backs and their central defenders has been excellent, as we saw with Nathan Redmond's run to collect the ball for his goal."

Middlesbrough were stuck in traffic and arrived at Wembley late today - has that had any bearing on Boro's slow start? Norwich certainly looking the sharper of the two sides. Being 2-0 up after 25 minutes helps with that, I guess.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"You do get the feeling it would only take one goal to change things, regarding Boro's belief, but Norwich have been absolutely superb at times."

George Friend wins Middlesbrough's first corner. Captain Grant Leadbitter delivers but it's a poor one, cleared away at the near post.

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Remi Akinyombo: Boro are bereft of confidence, passing going astray and heads going down. They still have time to get back into this!

Samba Jawo: Absolute nightmare for Middlesbrough. Another unfocused defending. Hard to come back.

Phil Hornby: So far Norwich have looked to isolate Bamford and it's working. Come on Boro.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

PA

Norwich, already 2-0 up, are smelling blood here. Nathan Redmond lifts a ball to the far post and Cameron Jerome can only watch it go behind. Boro need to settle, and quickly.

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"Norwich's play looks like Premier League, doesn't it? Middlesbrough seemed to have been knocked sideways. Norwich have settled into their rhythm."

How do you reply to that, Middlesbrough? Adam Clayton goes in strongly on Wes Hoolahan. Foul given by referee Mike Dean, and although one would never condone foul play, it's the sort of thing that might get the Boro side going.

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Interesting from George Friend immediately after Norwich scored their first goal.

"His first reaction was to head over to Daniel Ayala and give him a pat on the chest, putting his arm around him, encouraging him.

"After the second goal went in he looked upwards towards the sky. Quite. His team have it all to do now and predictions of a cagey final have gone fully out of the window."

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"That is a marvellous, marvellous goal. They made Middlesbrough work off the ball with consummate ease."

GOAL

AFP

What a finish from Nathan Redmond and Norwich lead 2-0 in the play-off final! An excellent build-up from the men in yellow, Steven Whittaker plays the ball into the box towards winger Redmond, who brings the ball down before firing in powerfully past Dimi Konstantopoulos.

Norwich manager Alex Neil punched the air several times as Cameron Jerome slid in his 21st goal of the season to put the Canaries ahead. Time seemed to stop as Jerome rolled the ball into the net. Such a composed finish on the big occasion.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"The angle got more and more acute for Cameron Jerome. He had so much time. In the end, the keeper must have left the near-post open. What Ayala was doing there, I do not know."

GOAL

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Norwich strike first in the play-off final! Cameron Jerome robs Daniel Ayala near the corner flag and takes the ball into the box. From a tight angle, he draws Dimi Konstantopoulos off his line and slots it past the Boro keeper at his near post.

We've had an open start at Wembley, now we have a goal. Shaping up to be a great contest.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 Live at Wembley

"You will not get two sweeter strikes. They were marvellous strikes! What a brilliant passage of play."

HITS THE WOODWORK

PA

Unbelievable! Both teams hit the woodwork in the space of a minute!

Norwich midfielder Bradley Johnson clatters the crossbar with a left-footed shot from 18 yards, then Boro break and Jelle Vossen hits the bar from 25 yards with his right foot.

Bradley Johnson needs no invitation to get forward from the Norwich midfield. He's inside the Middlesbrough box again, trying to get on the end of Steven Whittaker's floated pass, but it's just over his head.

At the other end, Albert Adomah's right-wing cross for Boro flies straight into the arms of goalkeeper John Ruddy.

Middlesbrough looking to ease their way into this play-off final, keeping the ball inside their own half. When they attempt to get it forward, they cough up possession.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"I'll be interested to see exactly where Wes Hoolahan plays for Norwich. I'll think he'll play close to Cameron Jerome, in which case Grant Leadbitter might drop a bit deeper for Middlesbrough, to stop Hoolahan playing in between the lines."

Bright start from Norwich, this. Nathan Redmond's chipped cross from the right just evades the leaping Bradley Johnson at the back post.

PA

A strong, but fair, challenge on Middlesbrough's danger man Patrick Bamford inside the first 20 seconds wins the ball back for Norwich in midfield. It's spread to the left touchline, where Norwich left-back Martin Olsson puts in a decent cross, but Boro clear.

KICK-OFF

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Promotion, a Premier League place next season and something in the region of £120m. Football matches don't get much bigger than this.

Norwich City get the Championship play-off final under way!

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"It has been the best year for the Championship. There is no doubt about that. It's topped everything that I've seen before."

Vote closed

As the two sets of players get ready for the Championship play-off final at Wembley, we must let you know that this afternoon's vote is now closed.

We will be bring you the result at half-time.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"My head says it should be Norwich, because of their squad and their form, but I've got a gut feeling that Middlesbrough are going to win it.

"Norwich have got a little bit of vulnerability that maybe I don't associate with Middlesbrough. Norwich can be better, but perhaps they've got a little bit of inconsistency.

"These two sides are very well matched. It's really difficult to call a winner. I don't see a clear favourite."

Ian Holloway

Ex-Blackpool manager, BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"None of us had ever heard of Aitor Karanka when he got the Middlesbrough job. He's such a wonderful man. He's calm and reassuring. You can tell he has got this crowd buzzing.

"I think a lot of it comes from working with Jose Mourinho but also from the man himself. You have to credit him."

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"No matter how many good players you have, if they are not managed properly, you don't get the results.

"Alex Neil has got the best out of these Norwich players. If he'd been the manager from the start, they'd have gone up automatically."

Here come the teams...

Juliette Ferrington

The two captains - Grant Leadbitter and Russell Martin - lead out Middlesbrough and Norwich City for their date with play-off destiny.

They're welcomed by a wall of noise at Wembley, which looks absolutely superb by the way. One half red, the other yellow.

Brilliant Bradley

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Neil stays calm for Wembley showpiece

PA

It's been a whirlwind few months for Norwich manager Alex Neil. He started 2015 in charge of Scottish Premiership outfit Hamilton - now he's taking the Canaries to a Wembley final.

But Neil won't let his own excitement come into his thinking ahead of today's play-off final.

He told BBC Radio Norfolk: "I think the fans should be excited, it's a great occasion. We've worked extremely hard to get there. It's not something that comes along very often and it's something they should enjoy.

"But my job's to make sure the team's ready, so that side of it I don't get the luxury of being involved in."

Getting to know you...

Empics

BBC Radio Norfolk's Chris Goreham gives us the lowdown on the man who's turned Norwich's season around:

"Few had heard of Alex Neil when he suddenly became the bookies' favourite to take the vacant Carrow Road job in January. He has already become the first man to lead the Canaries to Wembley since Ken Brown's side won the Milk Cup in 1985.

"He took over a squad with undoubted potential, and a fair helping of Premier League experience, but was floundering after a promising start to the Championship season under Neil Adams.

"The fact he has not lost an away game as Norwich City manager speaks volumes for a man who prides himself on meticulous planning and attention to details."

On this day in 2014, Neil guided Hamilton to promotion to Scotland's top flight. Is that a good omen for the Canaries today?

A case for the defence

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Karanka surprised at Boro's rise

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Aitor Karanka admits he's surprised to have a chance at winning promotion so soon after taking charge of Middlesbrough.

When the Spaniard arrived in November 2013, Boro were 16th in the Championship.

Karanka told BBC Tees: "I came here 18 months ago and I couldn't imagine at that time that 18 months later we were going to play at Wembley.

"We are going to play there because the players have had an amazing season and have done an amazing job every single day. For this reason, they deserve to be in Wembley."

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "There must be a beach in Spain with a lot of confused and upset children on it because most of the world's supply of beach balls appear to be in the Boro end.

"Boro's players head back down the tunnel, they arrived late and only appeared for their warm-up at 14:24."

Getting to know you...

Empics

Andy Lamb of BBC Tees tells us all about the impact Aitor Karanka has made since his appointment as Middlesbrough head coach in November 2013:

"He inherited a side 16th in the Championship, with some good players struggling for direction at the end of Tony Mowbray's three-year reign. Karanka immediately introduced double training sessions and demanded the highest of standards from his charges.

"If he has learned one thing from his time as Jose Mourinho's assistant, it is that the team comes first, second and last. He has no time for individuals who put themselves above the collective.

"He might claim to be surprised to have reached the Championship play-off final in his first full season, but don't be fooled, he'll expect to win it."

Kick-off approaching

Kick-off at Wembley is fast approaching and the atmosphere is beginning to build.

Wembley Way is a sea of colour with the red of Middlesbrough and the canary yellow and green of Norwich clearly distinguishable.

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Holloway's ones to watch

Former Blackpool and Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway: "Norwich's Wes Hoolahan is a little marvel and Middlesbrough's Lee Tomlin just makes things happen.

"That battle between those two could be crucial. I just hope that the final is settled by one moment of magic."

The road to Wembley: Norwich City

PA

Norwich City were outside the Championship's top six when Alex Neil was appointed manager in January, and the Scot's arrival coincided with an upturn in form that took the Canaries up to a final position of third.

That set up a play-off semi-final with Ipswich Town and, after a 1-1 draw at Portman Road in the first leg, Norwich saw off their East Anglian rivals 3-1 at Carrow Road.

Cameron Jerome poked in Norwich's third against 10-man Ipswich, who had defender Christophe Berra sent off for handling on the goal line.

The road to Wembley: Middlesbrough

PA

Middlesbrough were in the top six from October onwards but were unable to clinch automatic promotion, missing out to Bournemouth and Watford and finishing fourth in the Championship.

Brentford, who were chasing a second successive promotion, were their play-off semi-final opponents and a stoppage-time winner from Fernando Amorebieta at Griffin Park gave Aitor Karanka's side a crucial first-leg lead.

At Riverside Stadium, Albert Adomah completed a routine 3-0 home victory for Boro, who are hoping to return to the top flight after a six-year absence.

Vote

Kick-off is 25 minutes away, so a final call for today's vote. The question is who will win the Championship play-off final? Middlesbrough or Norwich?

The vote, which you can find on the right-hand side of the page (desktop) or via the tab at the top (mobile and tablet), will close at 15:00 BST and you can click here to read our voting terms and conditions.

Behind the scenes at Wembley

Phil Shepka

BBC Sport at Wembley

Phil Shepka

"Finally, one of the real perks of the job, the play-off final trophy in the press room. I don't want to touch it, I might break it... I want to be here covering the story, not become the story itself!"

Classic play-off finals

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The match: All five goals came in a breathless first half, Blackpool duo Charlie Adam and Gary Taylor-Fletcher cancelling out goals from Michael Chopra and Joe Ledley. Brett Ormerod, who had scored for the Seasiders in their fourth-tier play-off final win nine years earlier, netted what proved to be the winner.

The aftermath: Ian Holloway's Blackpool were relegated the following season despite some impressive results - including a 4-0 victory at Wigan on the opening day of the campaign and a league double over Liverpool. Cardiff were eventually promoted as second-tier champions in 2013.

Holloway is part of BBC Radio 5 live's team at Wembley today - listen online by clicking on the audio icon.

Focus Forum

BBC

In this week's Focus Forum, Dan Walker is joined by ex-Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson and former England international Phil Neville to discuss where today's Championship play-off final will be won and lost.

Watch the full video here or by clicking on the Highlights tab.

Classic play-off finals

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The match: After losing in the play-off semi-finals in each of the previous three seasons, Ipswich finally made it to Wembley but went a goal down to Barnsley. Tony Mowbray, Richard Naylor and Marcus Stewart scored, while goalkeeper Richard Wright saved a penalty. Although Craig Hignett pulled one back for the Tykes, Martijn Reuser's late strike secured promotion for the side from Suffolk.

The aftermath: Ipswich enjoyed an incredible first season on their return to the Premier League, finishing in fifth position and just four points behind second-placed Arsenal. Barnsley dropped into the third tier in 2002.

Behind the scenes at Wembley

Phil Shepka

BBC Sport at Wembley

Phil Shepka

"If you're lucky enough to cover football's richest game, then this is the sort of view you can expect to have at Wembley. It's pretty special, to be frank. You can make out in the foreground my scrawled notes and tablet, the all important kit to write my match report today."

Classic play-off finals

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The match: Perhaps the greatest play-off final of them all. Charlton's Clive Mendonca and Sunderland's Niall Quinn both scored twice in normal time, as the match ended 3-3 after 90 minutes. Nicky Summerbee put the Wearsiders in front again, but Mendonca completed his hat-trick to force a penalty shootout. After 13 successful kicks, Sasa Ilic saved from Sunderland's Michael Gray to send Charlton into the Premier League.

The aftermath: Charlton's stay in the top division lasted just one year, despite another Mendonca hat-trick in their opening home game of the season - a 5-0 win over Southampton that briefly took them top of the table. Meanwhile, Peter Reid guided Sunderland to the second-tier title.

Freddie in the doghouse

Matt Grimmer

They say dogs are a man's best friend, but Norwich supporter Matt Grimmer may have thought otherwise when beloved pet Freddie ate three of his Championship play-off final tickets.

"He's full of life and energy and if he sees something he'll go for it and have a play. Obviously he saw the tickets and the rest is history," said Matt.

Thankfully for Matt and two of his sons, Norwich have reprinted the tickets and he'll be able to watch his side play for a Premier League place today.

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley : "Superb scenes when Boro goalkeeping coach Leo Percovich emerged on to the pitch. He ran towards the Boro fans punching the air and then his chest and then imaginary things of his own creation.

"His energy was infectious and within seconds all the Boro fans were on their feet, roused and ready."

Classic play-off finals

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The match: Reading went 2-0 up inside 12 minutes and Royals striker Stuart Lovell had a penalty saved before half-time. Owen Coyle and Fabian de Freitas scored for Bolton to force extra time, and Mixu Paatelainen gave Wanderers the lead before a second from de Freitas secured victory, although Jimmy Quinn's late strike ensured a tense finale before Bolton could finally enjoy the prospect of Premier League football.

The aftermath: Bruce Rioch left Bolton to become Arsenal manager. Wanderers appointed Roy McFarland as his replacement but he departed midway through the following season and the club were relegated after one year in the Premier League. Reading dropped into the third tier three years later but finally made it to the top flight in 2006.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Joshua Scott: SEND HELP!! Play-off final is on in 45 minutes and I'm being dragged round the shops shoe shopping.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

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Bobby Zamora's 90th-minute winner took QPR into the top flight last season. Both sides will take a scrappy 1-0 today, I'm sure.

Line-ups

Middlesbrough: Konstantopoulos, Whitehead, Ayala, Gibson, Friend, Clayton, Leadbitter, Adomah, Vossen, Tomlin, Bamford.

Subs: Ripley, Kike, Forshaw, Reach, Amorebieta, Nsue, Woodgate.

Norwich City: Ruddy, Whittaker, Martin, Bassong, Olsson, Redmond, Howson, Tettey, Johnson, Hoolahan, Jerome.

Subs: Rudd, Grabban, Hooper, E. Bennett, R. Bennett, O'Neil, Dorrans.

Classic play-off finals

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The match: Swindon player-manager Glenn Hoddle scored the opener as the Robins were 3-0 up just after half-time, but goals from Julian Joachim, Steve Walsh and Steve Thompson completed a wonderful second-half comeback for Leicester. At 3-3 and with extra time looming, Foxes goalkeeper Kevin Poole brought down Steve White in the box and Paul Bodin converted the resulting penalty to secure Swindon's spot in English football's top division for the first time in their history.

The aftermath: Hoddle left Swindon to become player-manager at Chelsea and, under John Gorman, Swindon were relegated after one season in the Premier League. Leicester won the following year's play-off final to reach the top flight.

BreakingTeam news

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We finally have the Middlesbrough team, and their main striker Patrick Bamford is fit to start after overcoming an ankle injury.

Kike is the man to drop out, and that's the only change from the team that beat Brentford in their play-off semi-final second leg.

Going green

Jamie Cureton is summarising today for BBC Radio Norfolk.

He has gone green for the occasion...

BBC Sport

Matt, a Middlesbrough fan on BBC Tees: "If Boro were to lose today it would be absolutely devastating. But I've got a lot of confidence today. I've been lucky enough to go to every home game this season and I've been blown away by this team this season. And if there is a man, who can keep calm today, it's Aitor Karanka."

Paul, a Norwich fan from the West Country, on BBC Radio Norfolk: "It's a great day out. We travelled down and stayed in London last night. I'm feeling hopeful. Cardiff in 2002 was special but this is better. I can't call it, but I know I couldn't handle penalties."

BreakingTeam news

Norwich City are unchanged from their semi-final second-leg win over Ipswich. Striker Lewis Grabban makes the bench after returning from suspension.

Still waiting for confirmation of the Middlesbrough line-up, providing they make it through the London traffic...

Behind the scenes at Wembley

Phil Shepka

BBC Sport at Wembley

Phil Shepka

"Wembley does its best to feed the hungry journalists gathered in the press centre, and it's time to quell popular folklore. There isn't a prawn sandwich in sight. Instead you have the choice of chicken curry and couscous, or a vegetarian pasta dish. Being the carnivore I am, I went for the curry."

Listen live

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC Radio 5 live's coverage from Wembley is just getting under way, with Mark Chapman joined by Ian Holloway, who has won the Championship play-off final as a manager with both Blackpool and Crystal Palace.

Football correspondent John Murray and Steve Claridge, who scored Leicester's winner against Palace in this corresponding final under the old Twin Towers in 1996, will provide full match commentary from 15:00 BST.

You can also listen to the pre-match shows from BBC Tees and BBC Radio Norfolk by clicking on the Live Coverage tab, but rights restrictions mean we can't bring you their commentaries online later.

How the season unfolded: May

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Key result: Charlton 0-3 Bournemouth (2 May) - Eddie Howe's side secure the Championship title with a win at Charlton, as Watford slip up at home to Sheffield Wednesday.

Big winners: Brentford sneak into the play-offs on the final day of the season with a 3-0 home victory over relegated Wigan.

Big losers: Derby's miserable end to the season is completed by a 3-0 home defeat by Reading, leaving them outside the top six.

Vote

A reminder of today's vote for you. It's a simple enough question for a Bank Holiday Monday too. Who will win the Championship play-off final?

The vote, which you can find on the right-hand side of the page (desktop) or via the tab at the top (mobile and tablet), will close at 15:00 BST and you can click here to read our voting terms and conditions.

How the season unfolded: April

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Key result: Watford 2-0 Middlesbrough (6 Apr) - The Hornets gain some valuable momentum in the promotion race with a home victory over Boro, one of their closest rivals for promotion.

Big winners: Watford, in one of the closest Championship promotion battles for many years, win five and draw one of their six matches in April to secure promotion to the Premier League.

Big losers: Wolves' late-season surge for the play-offs is halted by two losses in four days to Birmingham and Middlesbrough and a home draw with Ipswich.

Managerial departures: Malky Mackay (Wigan Athletic, 6 April).

Cutting it fine

Mark Chapman

Presenter, BBC Radio 5 Live

"So Boro definitely aren't here yet and are getting a police escort through the traffic."

Memories are made of this

Former Blackpool and Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway: "The realisation when we won with Blackpool against Cardiff is probably the one thing that stands out most for me when I think back to my experiences here.

"Looking out at the horseshoe or tangerine supporters celebrating and thinking 'good God we've actually done it'. We were behind in every play-off game but a football club is about energy and we had it."

How the season unfolded: March

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Key result: Derby 0-1 Middlesbrough (17 Mar) - Patrick Bamford scores the only goal of the game against his former club to maintain Boro's push for promotion.

Big winners: Bournemouth take over at the top with 13 points from five matches.

Big losers: Derby take two points from five games and drop points against promotion rivals Norwich, Middlesbrough and Wolves.

Managerial departures: Ian Holloway (Millwall, 10 Mar).

Behind the scenes at Wembley

Phil Shepka

BBC Sport at Wembley

Phil Shepka

"When you sign your name in, you are presented with this lovely, special play-off package, containing all sorts of goodies. It includes a notepad, pen and a phone charger. Why the charger? I have no idea, but it's play-off branded, something I didn't get on Saturday for the League Two final. I get the feeling Wembley takes this game very seriously."

How the season unfolded: February

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Key result: Fulham 2-0 Derby (28 Feb) - Fulham ease their relegation concerns and, although Derby stay top, their fall from grace is about to begin.

Big winners: Norwich City find form under new manager Alex Neil, winning all five of their games in February.

Big losers: Bournemouth drop from first to fourth, with just one victory out of six matches in the month.

Managerial departures: Stuart Pearce (Nottingham Forest, 1 Feb).

Former Norwich striker Jamie Cureton tells BBC Radio Norfolk: "It's a great day and a great occasion.

"I would imagine the players will have been told the team earlier in the week, just to get the disappointment out of the way. I don't think there will be too many changes anyway.

"I'm sure the strikers that are sitting on the bench today will be thinking 'I can come on and be a hero'."

Build-up from BBC Tees and BBC Radio Norfolk continues via the Live Coverage tab.

How the season unfolded: January

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Key result: Watford 7-2 Blackpool (24 Jan) - Watford come from 2-0 down at half-time against the division's bottom club, Odion Ighalo scoring four of the Hornets' goals to complete an astonishing comeback.

Big winners: Middlesbrough take 10 points from 12 to go third and keep up the pressure on Bournemouth and Derby.

Big losers: Wigan, now with Malky Mackay as manager, continue to struggle and stay in the bottom three.

Managerial departures: Neil Adams (Norwich City, 5 Jan), Bob Peeters (Charlton Athletic, 11 Jan).

Around the world for 90 minutes

Daniel Eskdale

Middlesbrough to London is a long journey as it is, around 250 miles in fact, but some Boro fans are coming from even further afield than that to watch their team in today's Championship play-off final.

Ghana, New Zealand, Qatar and Miami are just some of the locations from which supporters are travelling to make it to today's game.

Read about some of those mammoth journeys here.

How the season unfolded: December

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Key result: Birmingham 6-1 Reading (13 Dec) - Demarai Gray's first-half hat-trick continues Blues' upturn in form under new manager Gary Rowett and ends Nigel Adkins' reign as Reading boss.

Big winners: Bournemouth end another month with a 100% winning record, scoring 17 goals in the process, to go top of the Championship.

Big losers: Nottingham Forest continue to slide, dropping to 11th with only three points out of 15.

Managerial departures: Nigel Adkins (Reading, 15 Dec), Sami Hyypia (Brighton, 22 Dec).

Warming up nicely

BBC Sport's Paul Fletcher at Wembley: "Wembley Way was packed by noon, the contrast between the Boro red and Norwich green and yellow both distinctive and anathema to anyone sporting a hangover.

"Plenty of fans looked like they were warming up nicely for the main event, with the mood convivial. I heard several fans of both clubs discussing events at Lord's, football rivalry united by the prospect of an England victory in the Test match."

How the season unfolded: November

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Key result: Derby 5-0 Wolves (8 Nov) - Derby cement top spot in the table with a ruthless demolition of Wolves, whose bright start to the season comes to a dramatic halt.

Big winners: Newly promoted Brentford win all five matches in November to climb to third in the table.

Big losers: Now under their fourth head coach of the season, Watford lose four games in a row to drop out of the top six by the end of the month.

Managerial departures: Uwe Rosler (Wigan Athletic, 13 Nov).

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Comedian and Norwich fan Stephen Fry: Delia and I are on our way to Wembley…. #COYY #OTBC

Stephen Fry

Burton boss and former Middlesbrough striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: #boro @Patrick_Bamford One final push to secure Premier League football next season.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Advice to the managers

Former Blackpool and Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway: "In some ways being a manager in the play-off final is like dealing with a funeral after a bereavement - you have to keep your emotions in check and get through it.

"The managers today have to convince their players that what they have been doing all season is good enough.

"The brain is a funny thing but the managers need to make sure their players use their instinct and don't think too much because that leads to emotions and causes players to choke."

How the season unfolded: October

Empics/BBC

Key result: Birmingham 0-8 Bournemouth (25 Oct) - Eddie Howe's Cherries record their biggest ever Football League victory at managerless Birmingham to display their promotion credentials.

Big winners: Bournemouth play four and win four in October, and significantly boost their goal difference by thrashing Blues.

Big losers: Birmingham City slip into the relegation zone, failing to win in October, dismissing manager Lee Clark and suffering a club-record home defeat.

Managerial departures: Dougie Freedman (Bolton Wanderers, 3 Oct), Billy McKinlay (Watford, 7 Oct), Lee Clark (Birmingham City, 20 Oct), Darko Milanic (Leeds United, 25 Oct), Jose Riga (Blackpool, 27 Oct).

Behind the scenes at Wembley

Phil Shepka

BBC Sport at Wembley

Phil Shepka

"As you'd expect from the sign, this is where all the media and broadcasters sign in to enter the press centre at Wembley. Today, names like Kevin Kilbane, Mark Chapman and Ian Holloway have shuffled through the automatic doors and up the lift to the press area."

How the season unfolded: September

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Key result: Nottingham Forest 5-3 Fulham (17 Sep) - Another heavy away defeat, this time at leaders Forest, costs Felix Magath his job as Fulham manager.

Big winners: Ipswich Town rise into the top six with 13 points from a possible 15.

Big losers: Wigan Athletic, play-off semi-finalists a few months earlier, take just two points from five matches in September to slide to 20th.

Managerial departures: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Cardiff City, 18 Sep), Felix Magath (Fulham, 18 Sep), Oscar Garcia (Watford, 29 Sep).

Listen live

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC Radio 5 live's coverage from Wembley starts at 14:00 BST. Mark Chapman will be joined by Ian Holloway, who won the Championship play-off final with Blackpool in 2010 and again with Crystal Palace three years later.

John Murray and Steve Claridge will provide full match commentary from 15:00 BST.

BBC Tees and BBC Radio Norfolk are also broadcasting live from Wembley today, although a rights issue means we're unable to stream those commentaries on the BBC Sport website.

You can, however, listen to both local stations' build-ups to the match by clicking on the Live Coverage tab.

How the season unfolded: August

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Key result: Derby 5-1 Fulham (23 Aug) - Felix Magath's side subside tamely to an impressive Derby outfit. A fourth straight defeat sends Fulham bottom of the Championship.

Big winners: Nottingham Forest top the table, winning four of their first five matches under new boss and club legend Stuart Pearce.

Big losers: Fulham take one point from their first five games and £11m striker Ross McCormack fails to find the net in the league.

Managerial departures: Mark Robins (Huddersfield Town, 10 Aug), Dave Hockaday (Leeds United, 28 Aug), Beppe Sannino (Watford, 31 Aug).

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Who are you backing to win at Wembley today? What type of game can we expect? Who will the key men be? And which of these teams do you think is best equipped to survive in the Premier League next season?

As ever, we want your views.

Text 81111, tweet using #bbcfootball or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Vote

Today's question is a simple one. Who will win the Championship play-off final?

The vote, which you can find on the right-hand side of the page (desktop) or via the tab at the top (mobile and tablet), will close at 15:00 BST and you can click here to read our voting terms and conditions.

Clough leaves Sheffield United

PA

Some Football League news you may have missed from earlier today. Nigel Clough has left his position as manager of Sheffield United.

Clough led the Blades to the League One play-offs, where they were beaten at the semi-final stage by Swindon Town.

League One play-off final

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Jermaine Beckford became only the third player to score a play-off final hat-trick at Wembley as Preston thrashed Swindon 4-0 on Sunday to win promotion to the Championship.

Paul Huntington scored the other as Preston finally ended their play-off hoodoo, having failed to go up in nine previous play-off campaigns.

League Two play-off final

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The play-off weekend began on Saturday, with Southend overcoming Wycombe in a penalty shootout to win the League Two final.

Joe Pigott's 122nd-minute equaliser for the Shrimpers took the tie to spot-kicks, and Southend goalkeeper Dan Bentley made two saves - including this from Sam Wood's attempt - to secure promotion for Phil Brown's side.

Over the next few hours, we'll bring you every kick, every tackle and every dramatic moment as Middlesbrough and Norwich City battle it out for a place in the top tier of English football.

Between now and kick-off at 15:00 BST, we'll hear from both camps, take you behind the scenes at Wembley, look back at the 2014-15 Championship season and remember some classic play-off finals from days gone by.

After 46 league games and some enthralling play-off semi-finals, it all comes down to this.

One match to decide whether Middlesbrough or Norwich City will join Bournemouth and Watford in the Premier League next season.

For the winners - glory and untold riches.

Losing isn't worth thinking about.

If you can fill the unforgiving play-off final

With 90 minutes' worth of distance run,

Yours is the Premier League and everything that's in it,

And - which is more - you'll be promoted, my son.

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