As an American this is one of the most fascinating aspects of the sport. There is nothing that compares to the promotion/relegation system, or the elation/horror that comes with it - not to mention the incredible logistical headaches of managing it.

After randomly choosing Leeds to manage in Football Manager eight years ago, I gradually became totally immersed, learned all of the Leeds history, and began following the team in real life. I saw every video on youtube, watched The Damned United about 5 times (great movie), and know this by heart.

The point is, I would think there's no fanbase that knows the trauma of all of this better than Leeds. From the top of the game, a few bad buying/selling choices... a bit of bad fortune.. and BAM. You're relegated, the finances collapse, players leave, and a cycle of poverty can ensue.

And that impact can last decades - or forever.

Then, IF you can claw your way back up, just as you get to the brink everyone poaches your best players (talk about Football Manager rage... I hate Mourinho in real life forever due to it). I've watched Leeds lose enough guys over the last 5-10 years to populate a decent premier side.

Anyway, as far as "overachieving" goes, I'll toss out a quote from a famous American football coach: "You are what your record says you are." Playing home and away against every other team in the league is a thorough test.