Why Preston North End fans hold a major grudge against Sheffield Wednesday boss Tony Pulis

But many Preston North End supporters still hold a grudge against new Sheffield Wednesday boss Tony Pulis for the controversial move he made that contributed to their relegation from the second tier in the 2010/11 season.

It started with a sacking. Darren Ferguson, who would go on to manager Doncaster Rovers and is now at Peterborough United, was given his marching orders after winning only 13 of his 49 matches with the Lilywhites sat bottom of the league.

Within hours Darren’s father, a little-known Manchester United manager called Sir Alex, called back three youngsters he had loaned to Preston; Josh King, Ritchie De Leat and Matty James in a move that attracted rare criticism from the football community.

In a further blow to Preston, Tony Pulis followed Ferguson’s lead by calling back Michael Tonge and Danny Pugh, who two years on would step out on loan at Wednesday. Both were key men.

Preston were relegated in 22nd place. Ouch.

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