Fortunate to have been among the first members of the Football League, Preston North End FC is among the oldest football teams in England.
The club was founded in 1880 and became legendary when they won the league in 1888/89, becoming the first English league champions and completing the “double” by winning the FA Cup and the league without dropping a game.
The “Old Invincibles” became their well-known moniker as a result. The club’s finest player, Tom Finney, who scored 187 goals and was a former star, has a significant influence on their heritage.
With Deepdale Stadium, their home since 1878, acting as a hub for supporters, Preston’s fan base is devoted and intense. It is among the oldest English football stadiums still in operation.
The club has been out of the top flight for the last few decades, despite its previous dominance. Preston plays football in the second division of the English football league, the EFL Championship.
They have had inconsistent results in the league during the past several seasons. Still interested? There are even more intriguing updates on The Real EFL. Let’s get into it!
Preston North End Updates
Preston North End, now ranked 19th in the table, has not performed up to expectations in the 2024/25 Championship season. They have only won 22% of the games they have played, with three draws, four losses, and two victories.
Their record at home is not impressive, despite some recent signings. The team has only won twice in four games while their record away from home could not be worse. Preston has had offensive difficulties, scoring only seven goals in nine games, with top scorer Milutin Osmajić scoring two.
Injuries have also impacted their campaign, with Will Keane sidelined by a hamstring issue, and Kaine Kesler recovering from a knock.
Despite efforts from players like Brad Potts and Benjamin Whiteman contributing assists, the team’s morale remains challenged by their defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 12 goals, averaging 1.33 goals per game.
Preston North End Transfer News and Rumours
This summer, Preston North End is considering the purchase of Lawrence Shankland from Scottish Premiership club Heart Hearts. PNE has been involved in the transfer market, vying for Aberdeen’s highly-regarded 24-year-old defender with Sheffield United and Stoke City.
They have also expressed interest in a free agent, with Sheffield and Stoke in the running. With these acquisitions, the team aims to bolster its defense as it looks to improve on its 10th-place Championship performance from the previous year.
Jeppe Okkels, an attacking-minded player from FC Utrecht, is one of the most recent additions. Okkels’ quickness and adaptability should help Preston’s offense.
Preston’s strategy, which emphasizes strategic, targeted purchases, is competitive when compared to other clubs in the league, even with a relatively small outlay in transfer fees.
Preston North End Signings
Preston North End have made remarkable signings over the last couple of months. Most of their new players come on loan spells.
Two key signings, Jeppe Okkels and Sam Greenwood, have the potential to significantly impact Preston North End’s performance this season.
Okkels, a versatile winger, brings energy and creativity on the flanks, excelling in counter-attacking play. His previous stint at Elfsborg demonstrated his ability to contribute both goals and defensive support, making him a well-rounded team player.
His pace and work ethic will be vital as Preston looks to improve their attacking output and climb the Championship table.
| Player | Age | Nationality | Left | Fee | Contract Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeppe Okkels | 25 |  Denmark |  FC UtrechtEredevisie | €2.00m | June 30, 2027 |
| Stefán Teitur Thórdarson | 25 |  Iceland |  Silkeborg IFSuperliga | €830k | 3-year deal with a buy-in option on the fourth year |
| Sam Greenwood | 22 |  England |  Leeds UnitedChampionship | Loan transfer | May 31, 2025 |
| Kaine Kesler-Hayden | 21 | England |  Aston VillaPremier League | Loan transfer | May 31, 2025 |
| Josh Bowler | 25 | England |  Nottingham ForestPremiere League | Loan transfer | May 31, 2025 |
| Noah Mawene | 20 | England France |  Newport CountyLeague Two | Loan Transfer | May 31, 2025 |
| Josh Seary | 20 |  Ireland England |  Larne FC Premiership | Loan Transfer | January 12, 2025 |
| James Pradic | 19 |  Wales |  Bamber Bridge FC | Loan Transfer | January 1, 2025 |
| Finlay Cross-Adair | 19 | England |  Prescot Cables FC | Loan Transfer | December 1, 2025 |
Preston North End Key Matches of the season
The attacking and defensive prowess of Preston North End has been demonstrated in recent games. They were victorious over Huddersfield Town, winning four goals to one on April 9, 2024.
The victory was assured by Milutin Osmajic’s seven-minute hat-trick. However, on April 29, just a few weeks later, they lost 0–3 to Leicester City after being outplayed by the better side.
Preston proved strong in the League Cup, most notably on August 13, 2024, when they defeated Sunderland 2-0 to seal their passage by displaying tactical discipline. Their ten most important matches in the season are represented in the table below:
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| 13 April 2024 | Preston 0-1 Norwich City |
| 2 October 2024 | Preston 3-0 Watford |
| 9 April 2024 | Preston 4-1 Huddersfield Town |
| 16 April 2024 | Southampton 3-0 Preston |
| 29 April 2024 | Preston 0-3 Leicester City |
| 13 August 2024, League Cup | Preston 2-0 Sunderland |
| 28 September 2024 | Millwall 3-1 Preston |
| 22 September 2024 | Preston 0-0 Blackburn Rovers |
| 24 August 2024 | Preston 1-0 Luton Town |
| 5 October 2024 | Burnley 0-0 Preston |
Preston North End overall are struggling for form. They have lost one of their five last games and drawn three, winning just the encounter against Watford on October 2nd. However, Paul Heckingbottom will be exploiting more of Osmajic’s technical and attacking prowess in the coming games.
Fans could expect gradual progress up the League 2 table as points are being won by Preston.
Preston North End Key achievements
Preston North End may be struggling in form this season, but they have a place in history among the noble English teams in the league championship.
PNE won the inaugural Football League championship in 1888/89, a season where they were famously dubbed “The Invincibles” for their unbeaten record in both the league and FA Cup.
This early dominance set the tone for the club’s long-standing legacy. Some of their notable achievements are listed below:
- Two consecutive league titles: in 1888/1889 and 1889/1890, Preston North End emerged victorious in the Football League.
- Two Times FA Cup Winners: Preston North End won two FA Cups between 1888 and 1889.
- Three Times English Second Tier Champion: They emerged winners of the second league table three times: 1903/04, 1912/13, 1950/51.
- Two Times English League Third Tier Champion: PNE was the third champion in 1970-1971 and 1999-2000.
- One Time English Fourth Tier Champion: The club won the fourth-tier championship in 1995-1996.
Preston North End Current Squad
The Preston North End 2024–2025 lineup is made up of 28 players. Using a 3-4-2-1 shape, head coach Paul Heckingbottom uses a combination of young and seasoned players. Preston’s key priorities this season are midfield control and defensive solidity.
Preston North End Attackers
Preston North End’s attacking squad is led by key players like Will Keane and Milutin Osmajic, both contributing crucial goals this season.
Supported by creative midfielders Mads Frøkjaer-Jensen and Duane Holmes, the attack is a blend of experience and youth, vital for breaking down opposition defenses.
Their combined efforts have significantly influenced the team’s offensive performance, adding versatility and depth to the squad’s overall tactics.
Preston North End Midfielders
When it comes to midfield play, Heckingbottom depends on Ben Whiteman, Ali McCann, and Duane Holmes as the top choice in Preston North End’s midfield.
Players like Whiteman are essential for keeping the speed under control, with McCann and Holmes contributing depth and energy.
To support the strategy, Stefán Teitur Thórdarson joins the trio, weaponizing the midfield for a well-balanced attack in the final third.
Preston North End Defenders
The defense of Preston North End has proven resilient; this was shown in their most recent game, a 3-0 victory against Watford.
With the help of players like Liam Lindsay and Jordan Storey, the defense efficiently neutralized Watford’s attacking threats, while Freddie Woodman made vital stops to preserve a clean sheet.
Preston’s first league victory in five games was largely due to this superb defensive performance, underscoring the significance of a robust backline as they look to move up the table.
Preston North End Goal Keepers
Preston North End’s goalkeeping has been anchored by Freddie Woodman, who has been instrumental in several matches, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities.
Despite some struggles this season, Woodman achieved a clean sheet against Watford, significantly boosting team morale. His consistent performances are vital for the team’s defensive strength, as they strive for better results in the Championship.
Preston North End Managing and Coaching Staff
Paul Heckingbottom is the current head coach of Preston North End, having joined in August 2024. He brings extensive managerial experience, including promotions with Sheffield United.
His tactical approach emphasizes a possession-based style of play and youth development. Stuart McCall serves as the assistant manager, complementing Heckingbottom’s philosophy with his wealth of coaching experience at clubs like Rangers and Bradford City.
The coaching staff also includes Matt Jackson, John Lucas, Peter Murphy, and Mike Pollitt, who collectively focus on player development and tactical strategies.
Paul Heckingbottom – Manager
Heckingbottom arrived Preston with two promotions under his belt, having led Sheffield United to the Premier League with 91 points in the 2022–2023 campaign.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City was the only team to defeat the Blades in the FA Cup semi-final during the same season.
Hecky, who has managed in the top three English football levels, also enjoyed success as a youth manager at Barnsley, where he lifted the EFL Trophy at Wembley and guided the team back to the Championship through the Play-Offs.
He also has managerial experience with Leeds United and Hibernian.
Stuart McCall – Assistant Manager
As assistant manager of Preston North End, Stuart McCall started working with Paul Heckingbottom in August 2024. Both managers have worked hand-in-glove to propel Preston to success.
McCall boasts an extensive background in managing having overseen four teams: Motherwell, Bradford City, Rangers, and others. Bradford City, Rangers, and Everton were among the teams he played midfield for. For Scotland, he also earned 40 caps.
Matt Jackson – PNE First Team Physio
Matt Jackson is the head physio at Preston North End, appointed in July 2016. He has played a significant role in managing player fitness and recovery, ensuring the squad is in optimal condition. His background includes experience with various teams, where he developed his expertise in sports rehabilitation.
John Lucas – Tactical Coaching Staff
John Lucas is another integral member of the coaching staff, serving as a first-team coach. He focuses on player development and tactical training, working closely with the players to enhance their skills and integrate tactical concepts into match preparation.
Peter Murphy – Defensive Coaching Staff
Peter Murphy also contributes significantly to the coaching staff, likely focusing on defensive strategies and player fitness. His background in coaching and experience with youth teams makes him an asset in nurturing talent and ensuring a solid defensive structure.
Mike Pollitt – Goal Keeper Coaching Staff
Mike Pollit is the goalkeeping coach for Preston North End, responsible for training the goalkeepers and improving their skills and game readiness. His experience as a former professional goalkeeper adds depth to the coaching staff and helps ensure that the club’s goalkeeping unit is well-prepared for matches.
Preston North End Former Managers & Key Coaches
Preston North End has seen the tactical expertise of legendary managers through the years, take the club through exciting footballing adventures. The last four managers before Heckingbottom explored different styles of play that laid the groundwork for the club’s current football.
- Billy Davies: Managed from 2004 to 2006, Davies led the team to successive play-off campaigns, achieving a win percentage of 45%. He is known for his ability to inspire players and make tactical adjustments, leaving a lasting impact on the club.
- Simon Grayson: In charge from 2013 to 2017, Grayson steered Preston back to the Championship in the 2014-15 season after a nine-year absence. His tactical acumen and motivational skills helped the club maintain stability in the second tier.
- Darren Ferguson: Briefly managed in 2010, Ferguson faced challenges during his tenure, achieving a win rate of 27% across 49 games. Despite limited success, he is known for his familial connection to football management.
- Ryan Lowe: From December 2021 to August 2024, Lowe focused on integrating youth into the squad. He achieved a win percentage of 38%, demonstrating promise in his management style, but left the club after a slow start to the 2024 season.
Preston North End Legends
Sir Tom Finney
Presumably, the most legendary player at Preston North End is Sir Tom Finney. With 433 caps and 187 goals, he became known as “The Preston Plumber” for his exceptional skill and sportsmanship.
A significant character in the club’s history, he received an OBE for his services to the game and served as an inspiration to upcoming generations of players.
John Goodall
John Goodall, who ended his career with Preston with 361 caps and 149 goals, was a key player in the team’s early victories. He was well-known for his ability to score goals frequently and contributed significantly to Preston’s rise to prominence in English football. In the annals of the club’s past, Goodall is still a hero.
Alan Kelly Snr
Alan Kelly Snr was a key figure in goal for Preston North End, making 425 appearances. His expertise in goalkeeping was crucial in several successful campaigns, and he is remembered as one of the club’s finest custodians. Kelly’s legacy continues to inspire future goalkeepers at the club.
Alan Ball Senior
Alan Ball Sr., a midfield player with 338 caps and 53 goals, made a major impact on the team. During his time, he contributed to the development of the team’s playing style, being well-known for his inventiveness and unwavering work ethic. Ball was a club legend whose impact went beyond his playing career.
Nobby Stiles
Nobby Stiles had 255 appearances in midfield, where he is most known for his contributions. Stiles has a special place in Preston’s legendary past since he was crucial to the team’s resiliency and determination. His leadership abilities and defensive skills made him an important member of the team during his tenure.
Alex Bruce
Alex Bruce, who has 40 goals and 287 caps, made a major defensive contribution for Preston. Bruce, who was well-known for his tenacity and leadership, supported the defence in pivotal games. He was a tremendous asset to the squad because of his ability to read the game and control the defensive line.
Mike Elwiss
Mike Elwiss was a vital striker for Preston, scoring 83 goals in 228 appearances. His scoring ability helped propel the team during challenging seasons, and he is remembered for his contributions to the club’s attacking play. Elwiss’s legacy remains strong among Preston supporters.
Tommy Docherty
Tommy Docherty, who played 269 matches for Preston North End, is celebrated for his time at the club and later success as a manager. His tactical acumen and leadership qualities significantly influenced the team, and his legacy continues to be felt within the club’s structure.
Preston North End Team Metrics and Performance
Preston North End’s performance has been patchy as of October 2024. After nine games, they have two wins, three ties, and four losses, placing them 19th in the Championship.
The team’s troubles on both ends of the field are evident as they have scored seven goals and given up 12.
Their results at home have been marginally better two wins, one tie, and one loss but their away results of three losses and no victories have negatively impacted their status.
Key players such as Milutin Osmajic, who is the top scorer with 2 goals, and contributors like Jordan Storey, Emil Riis, and Brad Potts, each with 1 goal, have played a part.
Midfielders Ben Whiteman and Kaine Kesler-Hayden have provided assists, showing their role in creating opportunities.
Defensively, led by Jordan Storey, the team has struggled to maintain clean sheets, with goalkeeper Freddie Woodman facing challenges but remaining crucial to the team’s defense.
Last season, Preston finished 10th, missing out on the play-offs by 10 points, and failing to score in their final five games dashed their promotion hopes.
Preston North End Pitch and Amenities
Preston North End’s home field, Deepdale Stadium, is notable in football history. It was first leased in 1875 and utilized for rugby and cricket matches before holding its first football game in 1878.
Deepdale has experienced several changes throughout the years, such as the addition of an all-weather plastic surface in 1986 to increase revenue and decrease postponements.
But because of its poor fan base, this pitch was eliminated in 1994. Unveiled in 2004 to celebrate Preston’s legendary player, Sir Tom Finney is one of the stadium’s most recognizable elements.
Peter Hodgkinson created the sculpture, which shows a well-known scene from a 1956 game. Notable occasions that Deepdale has hosted include England Under-21 games and matches from the 2005 UEFA Women’s Championship.
Preston North End Fan Base and Support
“Lilywhites” are the ardent and devoted supporters of Preston North End. Their steadfast support is shown throughout Deepdale home games, where they provide a lively atmosphere.
In an effort to assist the team, the supporters of the club have formed organizations like the Preston Supporters Collective, which is actively involved in fan-led projects.
The fan base plays a significant role in upholding the club’s customs and encouraging a sense of community. You can find out more about the club’s fan base here.
Preston North End Rivalries and Notable Matches
Preston North End is rivals with three major clubs: Blackpool, Burnley, and Blackburn Rovers. Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic are also considered rivals by some fans.
Preston – Blackburn Rivalry: In their last two league encounters this season, Preston and Blackburn have ended in a stalemate. Blackburn hasn’t beaten Preston since 2021, while the Lilywhites have constantly dominated their encounters.
The next fixture is scheduled for Saturday 01, February 2035. Preston will not have the advantage of cheering home fans, as they will be playing away. Considering their current poor away form, with zero wins, two draws and three losses in away matches, the encounter against Blackburn could prove fatal.
Preston – Blackpool: Preston has played three times against Blackpool, coming out victorious on all the occasions. The latter has never won Preston North End in league matches either.
Preston – Burnley Rivalry: Burnley has won most matches against Preston North End. The former places third in the championship with better form than Preston who are struggling to keep clear of the bottom three.
Preston North End Facts
The table below summarizes the top facts about Preston North End football club.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Club Name | Preston North End FC |
| Founded | 1889 |
| Home Stadium | Deepdale |
| Location | Preston, Lancashire, England |
| Website | https://www.pnefc.net/ |
| League | EFL Championship |
| Social media | https://x.com/pnefc |
Preston North End History
Preston North End is a significant figure in English football history being one of the first members of the Football League.
The club was founded in 1880, but its origins are in cricket, where its first iteration dates back to the 1860s, when the squad played in Moor Park.
William Sudell, who joined the club in 1867 and was instrumental in its early growth, helped Preston become one of the biggest football teams in the world.
Sudell created the groundwork for the team’s early supremacy by enlisting skilled Scottish players and adopting the association code in 1880.
Preston won the Football League and the FA Cup together for the first time ever in the 1888–1889 season, going undefeated and became known as “The Invincibles.”
Preston’s reputation as an innovative force in English football was solidified by these early successes.
Preston North End had many significant victories over the years, including the FA Cup again in 1938 and the Second Tier Championship in 1903–04 and 1950–51.
The team persevered in being competitive despite facing difficulties, such as relegation battles in later decades. An ardent fan culture has been cultivated via rivalries, most notably the East Lancashire derby against Blackburn Rovers.
Community involvement has also been central to Preston’s ethos, with outreach programs fostering local spirit. Recently, Preston has aimed to re-establish itself as a force in the Championship, facing challenges like fluctuating performance and managerial changes.
The modern era has seen managers like Ryan Lowe and the recent appointment of Paul Heckingbottom, as the club continues to build on its storied legacy.
Preston North End Social Media Links
It is important for supporters of Preston North End to follow them on social media in order to remain up to speed on news, player insights, match schedules, and local activities.
It makes it possible for fans to interact with the team and one another more closely. Follow Preston North End on Twitter and visit their official website to stay up to date.
Preston North End Outlook and Forecast
Preston North End’s 2024/25 season shows promise but comes with challenges. Their squad, bolstered by new signings like Sam Greenwood and Jeppe Okkels, is aiming for a mid-table finish after struggling early on.
Greenwood’s versatility in midfield, alongside Okkels’ pace on the wing, could provide the attacking thrust needed for a stronger second half of the season.
Defensively, the return of Jordan Storey and contributions from goalkeeper Freddie Woodman will be vital in tightening up at the back.
In terms of transfers, Preston has been active in strengthening both midfield and attack, with some key loan deals including Kaine Kesler-Hayden and Josh Bowler.
The team is looking to make strategic moves in January to address gaps, particularly in defense. Overall, the strategic focus is on improving consistency and pushing for a top-half finish.
Frequently Asked Questions on Preston North End Football Club
How much would it cost to buy Preston North End Football Club?
Preston North End Football Club is worth €43.85 million.
Is Preston North End the oldest football club?
No. The oldest football club in the world is Sheffield FC, founded in October 1857.
What are Preston North End fans called?
Preston North End Fans are called the Lilywhites.
What famous players played for Preston North End?
Sir Thomas Finney was the record goal scorer and most iconic player to ever play for Preston North End. Other notable players include Alan Kelly Sr, Alex Bruce, Bill Shankly, and David Moyes.
Why is Preston North End Famous?
PNE were known as the “Invincibles”, because they were the first English football team to win the English league and the 1889 FA Cup without conceding. Doing so while being undefeated in every game.
Is Preston North End a big club?
Preston North End has a rich history; however, they are just another club in contemporary times. Struggling in form in the Championship almost every season, the club has more to worry about than comparing themselves to more established English teams.
Where to watch Preston North End FC?
You can watch all of the PNE league matches on Sky Sports and ITV. BBC broadcasts the FA Cup matches.