FOOTBALL: Turn back the clock

Too early to mention promotion, as any manager will tell you - but try telling the fans of table-topping Leicester and Swindon, relegated last year, not to get excited.

As they dream of an instant return, they may not be pleased to learn that they have historical precedent in their path. Since the war, 55 relegated teams have bounced back at the first attempt - little more than one per season.

In Leicester's case, the portents do not look good at all: five times relegated in the last 50 years, not once have they been promoted at the first try. Norwich, whom they beat on Saturday, have dropped down three times since 1974 - and each time gone straight back.