The Sky Blue Army is marching towards the Premier League, but inside the Coventry City camp, the focus remains razor-sharp. Defender Joel Latibeaudiere has revealed that manager Frank Lampard is the key figure ensuring the squad stays grounded despite being on the cusp of a historic promotion.

Following a hard-fought 0-0 draw away at playoff-chasing Hull City on Easter Monday, Coventry sit 12 points clear at the Championship summit with just five games remaining. Their commanding goal difference means a victory this Saturday against already-relegated Sheffield Wednesday could mathematically seal their return to the top flight for the first time in a quarter of a century.

Yet, the mood is one of disciplined focus, not premature celebration. "Our goal is always to take one step at a time, and that's how we've approached it throughout the year," Latibeaudiere stated. "The staff and the gaffer have been massive in keeping us grounded and keeping us working hard in training. Mathematically, it isn't there yet. The boys are just focusing on winning as many games as possible and ending the season as strong as possible."

The stalemate at Hull also highlighted the defensive solidity that has underpinned their remarkable campaign. It marked a 15th clean sheet of the season for on-loan Brighton goalkeeper Carl Rushworth and his backline. "Rushy's been a massive player for us," Latibeaudiere praised. "To get a clean sheet is more than a goal for a defender. It was a hard-earned point against a tough opponent fighting for their own objectives."

Latibeaudiere was quick to dedicate any potential success to the club's phenomenal supporters, thousands of whom made the 250-mile round trip to Hull. "The home and away support has been unbelievable since I got here," he said. "We as a team respect it so much to see the numbers come out, with fans sacrificing time and money. Any triumph this season will be as much theirs as it is ours."