SKIPPER Jack Stephens fought back tears as he reflected on leading Saints back to the Premier League before insisting: "We all deserve it."

The 30 year old lifted the Championship playoff trophy at Wembley Stadium after Adam Armstrong's goal saw Southampton beat Leeds United 1-0 on Sunday.

Stephens has been a key man for Saints in the latter stages of the season having reasserted himself on the starting lineup upon his return from a lengthy injury.

He has been asked to play many different roles - some of which he had never experienced prior to this season.

Stephens, who has been at Southampton since 2011, wrestled with his emotions as he reflected on his journey so far.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said: "I'm just emotional, to be honest - and drained. I'm so proud of this group and the football club. I'm delighted.

Daily Echo: Captain Jack Stephens has been at Southampton since 2011Captain Jack Stephens has been at Southampton since 2011 (Image: Richard Crease)

"I'm trying to talk without getting emotional about it because it's been a hell of a ride. I've been through so much, so many ups and downs.

"I think it's just the pride to get over the line here, to see the fans enjoy it, to see my mates enjoy it. I can't even talk about my family.

"We knew that it was going to be tough because cup finals are very edgy. It was between two fantastic sides. 

"Leeds deserve so much credit for the season that they had. If I can say it, I think both teams deserved to go up.

"Unfortunately, there's been four outstanding teams this season. One was always going to miss out.

Daily Echo: Jack Stephens led the celebrations on Monday at St Mary'sJack Stephens led the celebrations on Monday at St Mary's (Image: PA)

"I'm just very, very grateful and thankful that we've managed to get over the line and we are not the ones who are missing out.

"You just have to enjoy moments like this, because when you're a footballer, there's only a small percentage of players that win trophies on a regular basis.

"You don't have moments like today on a regular basis. We all strive for it, but unfortunately, as players, you don't get that many.

"You have to enjoy these days. You have to really soak it up and embrace it. I just can't wait to do that with my family, all the boys and everyone at the club, because we all deserve it."

Stephens played 26 Championship games for Southampton this season having spent last year on loan at South Coast neighbours AFC Bournemouth.

He was named captain by Russell Martin this season after signing a one-year contract extension, which will keep him at the club until 2025.