Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom has acknowledged the significant void left in his squad following Duane Holmes’ departure to Major League Soccer outfit Houston Dynamo.
Holmes departs as Preston opt against contract extension
The 30-year-old midfielder, who was nearing the end of his contract at Deepdale, has opted to move to the United States after an injury-hit campaign. Despite making 29 league appearances this season, Holmes struggled to secure a consistent starting role, prompting the Lilywhites to refrain from extending his deal.
Holmes suffered a broken leg during a match against Norwich City, further complicating his future at Preston. With the MLS transfer window open, Houston Dynamo swooped in to offer him a fresh start overseas.
Heckingbottom ‘He’ll Be Missed’
Heckingbottom, while disappointed to see the midfielder leave, admitted the move was an opportunity Holmes and his family were eager to take.
“Yeah, he’ll be missed,” Heckingbottom told the Lancashire Post. “I’ll miss him. He’s been good as gold. I didn’t want to say too much, obviously, before (it got confirmed) but yes, just too good of an opportunity that him and his family wanted to take.
The Preston boss added that the decision ultimately aligned with Holmes’ long-term ambitions, particularly as he had previously expressed interest in playing in the United States.
Holmes’ impact at Preston
Holmes arrived at Deepdale from Huddersfield Town and quickly established himself as a dynamic presence in the midfield. In his 72 appearances for Preston, he netted six goals and provided eight assists.
His pace and dribbling ability made him a valuable attacking asset, and Heckingbottom acknowledged his versatility, recalling how he had stepped in at wing-back when the team was short on options.
“He was different,” the Preston boss reflected. “I thought, and he’ll not thank me for this, but what a great sub he was for us. If winning then generally, we’d bring him on because we’d use his pace on the counter to create more chances. Losing, we’d bring him on for, like I said, unpredictability at the top end.”
Despite his departure, Preston will look to adjust their midfield options as they aim to maintain their push in the Championship.
Writer’s view
Holmes’ exit signals a significant change in Preston’s squad, particularly as the club looks ahead to next season. While his impact may not always have been reflected in the starting XI, his ability to change a game from the bench was a vital asset.
With his departure, Heckingbottom now faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement who can bring a similar spark to the team. The Lilywhites’ reluctance to extend his contract suggests they already have an alternative plan in place – whether that be through a summer signing or an internal reshuffle remains to be seen.
