Didn't they win the PL or equivalent of(First Division) in the 60's?, if so then they are ahead in that respect.
Im pretty sure that we are still ahead when it comes to the total number of seasons spent in the top flight! Not bad considering we've been stuck in this hell hole league for 12 seasons!
I see what you mean. This suggests so: http://www.myfootballfacts.com/SEASONS-IN-TOP-FLIGHT----1888-89-to-2009-10.html Though we only need a few more!