The four Championship sides in the play-offs  are battling it out to join Watford and Bournemouth in the Premier League next season after the duo came out on top in one of the most exciting promotion races for many years.

And during a fantastic season, a number of players have certainly caught the eye and look sure to make the step up to the Premier League sooner rather than later.

Some are still in with a chance of achieving the dream through the play-offs, but for others it looks like they may well soon be in for a transfer after their side’s missed out on the top six, despite the impressive performances of some of their star players.

Here a five stars who look set to light up the Premier League next season...

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Patrick Bamford

Patrick Bamford looks set for a bright future having impressed once again in the Championship, this time with Middlesbrough.

The on-loan Chelsea star was named the Player of Year in England’s second tier thanks to his 17 goals, and he can go along way to ensuring his side can successfully navigate the playoffs.

Whether or not he gets his chance at Chelsea next season remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt he will plying his trade in the top division next term with a number of clubs interested in him.

Will Hughes

Derby must be cursing their luck having not only missed out on automatic promotion, but also missing out on the top six on goal difference following a disastrous end to the season.

Their brightest talent Will Hughes played an unwanted part in their shock three-nil defeat to Reading on the final day; gifting the Royals their opening goal, but this shouldn’t overshadow what has been another great season for the youngster.

Having been linked to Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United in the past, the Rams will do well to keep hold of him for another season.

Jordan Rhodes

Another 20-goal season for Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes is sure to have attracted further interest from the Premier League, and he may well feel it’s time to test himself at the highest level having once again missed out on the playoffs.

He’s passed the 20-goal mark for the last three seasons now, and it’s no surprise to see a number of clubs linked with a move for the Scottish International this summer, who could prove a shrewd acquisition to whoever wins the battle.

Tyrone Mings

Having attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal and Crystal Palace already, Ipswich’s hopes of hanging onto Tyrone Mings could depend on whether or not they can go on and win the play-offs.

The full-back has been a key part of the club's push for promotion, and at just 22 could soon be a Premier League player, although Mick McCarthy will be doing his upmost to ensure he remains at Portman Road for at least another season.

Sam Byram

It’s been another turbulent season at Leeds United, but despite all the problems both on and off the pitch Sam Byram can be pleased with his efforts.

The versatile defender is being chased by both Liverpool and Everton and is another who looks capable of playing in the Premier League in the future.

With Glen Johnson set to leave the Reds in the summer, the 20-year-old has already been earmarked as a long-term replacement, and unfortunately for Leeds his time at Elland Road could be coming to an end.