Why Sheffield Wednesday are wary of Preston North End strength

Sheffield Wednesday face a stern examination of their promotion credentials when they go to Preston North End.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The Lilywhites, managed by Alex Neil, are a difficult side to beat on their own turf. They suffered just five defeats at Deepdale last season as they secured a 14th-placed Championship finish.

And Preston have made a strong start in their own backyard this time around, overcoming Wigan Athletic and Stoke City 3-0 and 3-1 respectively.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Owls caretaker chief Lee Bullen, who hopes full-back Liam Palmer (back) will be passed fit to play, said: "It’s probably one of the hardest away games we could get.

Preston boss Alex Niel (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)Preston boss Alex Niel (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
Preston boss Alex Niel (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

“Alex Neil has done a great job. He did really well at Norwich and Preston. It looks like a really good fit for the club and Alex.

"Their recruitment has been really good, picking up players from the lower level and giving them a platform to show themselves.

"I know Alex and his assistant realy well. They seem to have built a good working environment there.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“They play front-foot football and have plenty of energy, but there’s areas we can exploit.

“Hopefully we can put on a positive show for the supporters. I think we can do that.

“We’re trying to find a consistent team and the lads who have been playing deserve the jersey. We’ve been playing well and getting results. We’re in a good place."

Wednesday have a lousy recent record against Preston. Their last victory at Deepdale came back in December 2011.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Our record doesn’t stand up well against them away from home," Bullen conceded. "But as with anything, the more negative results you’ve had against a certain opposition, the closer you are to getting that elusive win."

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.