Coventry City Can Shut the Door on Leeds United & Everton — But Promotion Is the Key
Coventry City are rediscovering their best form at precisely the right moment in the 2025/26 Championship season. With just over two months remaining, the Sky Blues have surged into a commanding position at the top of the table and are firmly on course not only for promotion to the Premier League but potentially the Championship title as well.
After enduring a testing winter spell, Frank Lampard’s men appear revitalised. A convincing 3–1 triumph over Middlesbrough reignited belief within the squad — belief that had perhaps faded since the early weeks of autumn. That result was swiftly followed by another assured display, as Coventry secured a 2–0 victory over West Bromwich Albion to make it consecutive wins and further underline their credentials as serious automatic promotion contenders.
At present, the Sky Blues sit three points clear of Middlesbrough with 13 games remaining. More significantly, they boast a healthy nine-point cushion over third-placed Millwall. While Ipswich Town — currently fourth — do hold two games in hand despite their recent setback against Wrexham, Coventry remain firmly in control of their destiny.
With momentum building and confidence restored, supporters are already beginning to dream of a decisive afternoon in May that could confirm their return to the Premier League. Promotion, however, would not just represent a sporting triumph — it could also prove crucial in securing the future of one of their most important players.
Promotion Could Be the Deciding Factor in Bobby Thomas’ Future
Interest in defender Bobby Thomas has been steadily increasing over recent months. Several Premier League clubs are monitoring his progress closely, including Leeds United and Everton, while Brentford have also been linked with the centre-back. With the summer transfer window approaching, speculation is expected to intensify.
Thomas, 25, remains under contract at the CBS Arena until the summer of 2027, which gives Coventry a degree of security. Nevertheless, sustained interest from established top-flight sides will inevitably raise concerns within the club hierarchy. To fend off suitors, Coventry may need to offer improved terms and demonstrate long-term ambition — and that ambition is closely tied to securing promotion.
If Lampard’s side clinch a Premier League place, they will significantly strengthen their position in negotiations. Competing in England’s top tier would not only enhance their financial power but also make it easier to convince Thomas that his immediate future lies in the West Midlands.
However, failure to achieve promotion could dramatically alter the situation. Remaining in the Championship would likely increase the temptation for Thomas to test himself at the highest level elsewhere, especially given the calibre of clubs reportedly circling.
A Defensive Leader With Attacking Impact
Thomas’ importance to Coventry’s promotion push cannot be overstated. Since joining the club in 2023, the former Burnley defender has made well over 100 appearances and established himself as a cornerstone of the team’s defensive structure.
Remarkably, his influence extends beyond his primary defensive duties. Wearing the number four shirt, Thomas has contributed two goals and four assists this season — an impressive return for a centre-back. He has also created 22 chances for teammates, a figure that surpasses any other player in his position within the squad. His composure on the ball, aerial strength, and ability to step into midfield areas have made him indispensable to Lampard’s tactical setup.
There is a growing sense that Thomas is a Premier League-level defender in waiting. The only lingering question is whether that step up will come with Coventry or elsewhere.
Thomas Focused — But Decisions Loom
For now, the defender remains fully focused on the task at hand. Speaking to Coventry Live, he made it clear that contract discussions are not a priority during the run-in:
> “To be honest, I was looking at getting this season out of the way and concentrating on doing what we all need to do and get to where we want to get to. And then it’s something to evaluate at the end of the season. I don’t think I want to get caught up in something like that at the moment.”
His comments reflect a player determined not to let speculation derail the team’s objectives. Coventry’s immediate mission is clear: secure a top-two finish and guarantee promotion.
If they achieve that, they may well hold the decisive advantage in persuading Thomas to continue his journey in sky blue. If they fall short, holding off interest from Leeds, Everton, and other Premier League suitors could become far more challenging.
For Coventry City, the equation is simple — promotion first, contracts second.
