Aleksandar Mitrovic scored twice in a 3-0 win over Preston at Craven Cottage on Tuesday, ensuring Fulham’s return to the Premier League with four games to spare.

Cottagers have moved divisions for the sixth straight season, having been promoted in 2018 and 2020 before being demoted in their first season back in the top tier.

Marco Silva’s side, in contrast to their need to go through the playoffs two years ago, have been the best team in the Championship by a by shot this season.

Mitrovic has been a big reason for that, with a first-half double taking his record to an astounding 40 goals in 40 league outings this season.

Fabio Carvalho, who is set to join Liverpool, was also on target as Fulham drew closer to clinching the championship.

They have a nine-point lead over Bournemouth with five games remaining for the Cherries to catch up.