A New Plumber

[displaced_seagull]

As cheers went up from the away end to signal full time and a 2-0 victory, the sharp-suited stranger, in that section but not amongst the regular travellers, reached for his top pocket and pulled out his phone. He scrolled through his contact list, selected a name, and sent a text. It simply said "He's the one".

Receiving the message via the miracle of wireless technology a few seconds later, Andy Lamb smiled. He had thought as much from the beginning, but reading the assent of his most trusted footballing lieutenant served as a final confirmation that he had found the right man for the position. This time, he murmured to himself, would be different.

The following day, Thursday 26th November 2020, dawned bright. Lamb was at his desk early, watching the watery, early-winter sun rise over Lancashire. He had been the first one in that day, something which did not surprise his personal assistant when she arrived, ten minutes before her start time, promptly as always. 

Her first task would be to make coffee. Taking it through to the Chairman, Hayley Hebblethwaite smiled. "Good morning Andy. Here you go"

Lamb smiled back. "Could be a big day today Hayley". "Not sure if the press conference will be today, depends on the timing, but better pop out and get some more milk - and biscuits, you know what journalists are like", he added with a grin. There was not a hint of bitterness in his voice this time, Hayley thought to herself. Three weeks had passed since she had found herself in a similar situation, only that time, her boss' attitude had been somewhat different. That day she found herself arranging a press conference to announce the dismissal of Paul Cook. 

Hayley had worked for Andy since leaving school - a self made businessman, he was mostly self-sufficient, but she enjoyed her jobs - which had varied over the years - as his business empire grew from a small window cleaning business, then adding office cleaning, outside maintenance and others to become a full facilities management company. She was first taken on to answer the phones in the early days, proving herself more than capable, and gained more responsibilities quickly - running the diaries, managing the office, and, as Lamb Facilities grew, becoming not just an integral part of the company. Newly married, and not long back from maternity leave at the age of 29, she had met her now husband, Phil, when she was handed responsibility for interviewing the first gardener that the company employed. In 2018, when Lamb and his fellow investors took over the local football club, she was only too happy to take another step forward, not only supporting Andy as his PA, but also being in charge of non-football administration at the club. They worked well together, they both knew it - and best of all, neither of them wanted things any other way.

FM17 17.3.2, England (to Regional Prem), Wales (To Step 2), All out of the box leagues in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Holland, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria, USA, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Serbia, Iceland, Gibraltar, Top 2 Leagues in Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Faeroe Islands, Top Divisions only in Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Iran, China, DR Congo, Saudi Arabia, Albania, Belarus, Greece, Luxembourg, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay.

This is the same save game as I used for my recent short story, "The First Weekend In December"

I hope you enjoy my first foray back into writing for a while

[displaced_seagull]

Andy Lamb's takeover came in March, with the position in the league delicately poised. A few short weeks later, he was the toast of the town, the local boy made good, and he had no idea how many hands he had shaken or high-fived as Jose Riga's side won promotion back to the Championship. Riga went in the winter of 2019, with relegation looming. Paul Cook came in to steady the ship, a task he performed admirably, staving off the threat of relegation, but by November of this year, after three defeats on the bounce and with that sceptre again on the horizon, Lamb had been forced to dismiss as manager his first, and, as yet, only appointment since his reign began. 

As he sipped his coffee, looking out over the pitch, he knew that this time he had to get it right. There was a little pressure from the natives, but nothing over the top - Lamb's status as the local fan, turned successful businessman who had taken over helping there - but the club could not afford a relegation, and he knew that, for all the plaudits he had achieved, those same locals who were now cheering him could quite easily turn against him. He glanced at the clock on the wall, hearing the church bells chime 8am in the distance. Finishing his coffee, now he had a call to make.

After the pleasantries had been exchanged, Lamb got straight down to business. He would pay the £15,750 in compensation, plus some more for a Coach who would be coming with the new manager. He ran through what had transpired over the previous few days since their initial discussion - A preliminary chat, with the current employers' permission of course, with his target had proved fruitful, and some baseline philosophies had been agreed. A promise had been made to up the youth coaching budget. Backroom staff had been discussed - one out, two in, including the potential manager. Current caretaker Sam Lock would be leaving his post. The assistant manager would stay the same, as would the bulk of the coaching staff. Lamb knew his new manager might want to make more changes in time, but he had also been impressed that he did not want to gut his former club.

Silence greeted him, followed by a sigh. Vasile Pop , in his Romanian-accented English, quietly acquiesced. "You can offer him a contract" he replied. "It'll be up to him then". Lamb thanked Pop, and ended the call. Hayley put her head around the door. "The room is confirmed. I've got the papers and TV on notice - oh, and I've been to the newsagents, 8 pints of milk and a few packets of biscuits are ready. They'll keep till tomorrow, assuming you don't get peckish!"

In Bucharest, where had been attending to some family matters, Pop cursed to himself, before exclaiming in English, to nobody in particular, "I must get it right next time".

[displaced_seagull]

An hour and a half behind the wheel of his immaculate Jaguar - a rare concession to the lifestyle to which he had now become accustomed - was usually something Andy Lamb would relish, but, hearing the sports news on the radio, he couldn't help but be a little apprehensive. Cook, his former manager, was now being talked about as favourite for the Walsall job - after the man he was on his way to meet had apparently turned down an interview at The Bescot. If he had turned down an interview, thought Lamb, that either means he has made his mind up to come to us, or he doesn't want to go anywhere.

The pop up meeting venue at the motorway services, roughly half way between the Lancashire former mill town which became a city in 2002 and the East Midlands cathedral city served as an ideal location for Lamb to meet with his target. As he sat down at the highly polished table, he opened his briefcase and shuffled a few papers inside. A quick glance at Twitter was interrupted by a phone to his side. "Mr Lamb, your visitor his here. I'll bring him through". Lamb stood up, walked around to the door, and opened it. Turning the corner of the corridor, the young room attendant didn't miss a beat. "Mr Lamb, a Mr Fairway to see you". "Can I get you anything else?"

As the two men took their places on opposite sides of the table, the attendant brought through their drinks, before leaving them to their discussions. She momentarily lingered outside the door, before moving her foot, allowing it to softly close and let the men get on with whatever it was they had to discuss. Although Hayley had astutely booked the room under the auspices of Lamb Facilities, She had assumed by the car which had arrived it was something more than a discussion around the best type of vacuum cleaners, but recognising neither of the two men, decided that this wasn't the day to risk her much-needed if somewhat menial job with a tip off to the tabloids.

After initial small talk about their respective journeys and the weather, Lamb put his briefcase on the table, unhooked the latch, and pulled out a contract. "I don't want to mess you around. You were the standout candidate" he said, with an assertive but friendly tone to his voice. "I am here today to offer you the chance to manage Preston North End Football Club . "It's a two year deal, to the summer of 2022. As previously discussed, this season we would like you to avoid relegation. There's a £190,000 transfer budget, and £180,000 a week wage budget. Currently the wage bill is nearer £160,000 so there is a bit of wiggle room if you want to adjust the balance either way. If you go down, your wages would go down by 35%. If you go up, 10% increase - and, as requested, and in recognition of your achievements as a manager so far, we'd let you move on for 70% of the remainder of your contract. How do you feel?"

The other man, 36-year old Stuart Fairway smiled a slightly awestruck smile. "That's quite a jump for me in wages. The wife will be thrilled!", before getting back to business. "And the philosophies we discussed on Friday?"

Lamb grinned back. "Agreed. Prioritise youth, whether that be through signings or developing our own. We'll increase the budget for Junior Coaching, more equipment to monitor their performance, another coach, and the extension of our summer school programme. Jason Cowan has agreed to come with you and join the club as a First Team coach. All I ask of you other than avoiding relegation is that you refrain from applying for jobs at other clubs whilst in my employment. Obviously, if something incredible comes up, I'm a human being. And, he added with a grin, a Football fan".

"It's such a tempting offer" Fairway replied. "I've thought of nothing else since we met last week", referring to their interview at Deepdale, which Fairway had attended on his way to watch a prospect at Burnley.

He paused for a moment, gazing through the Preston Chairman towards the window blinds. Lamb looked on, expectantly, a thousand thoughts racing through his mind.

After a 25 second wait that seemed like an eternity to both men, Fairway snapped to attention. "Mr Lamb, you have yourself a new manager".

A beaming smile on his face, Lamb jumped up out of his chair to offer his hand. "I'll let Lincoln know we've been able to come to an agreement. Give your wife a call, tell her the news before anyone else finds out. I'll get my PA to arrange for a bunch of flowers to be with her before the school run. Now, if I can get you to sign here..."

Fairway signed. He shook hands with his new Chairman again, and pulled out his phone to make a call. His fourth job as a football manager would be his most high-profile one yet. 

[displaced_seagull]

Sally was used to moving by now, but would miss life in Lincoln. It had been nice to start to put roots down after that awful three months living out of suitcases in London, though she too was tempted by moving towards an area she knew better. She was also very happy that her husband would now be receiving the financial rewards of a man who had done so well in his chosen profession. Fairway's kids, on the other hand, were ecstatic - although that may have a lot to do with the plethora of new gadgets and toys which they knew usually accompanied their fathers moves. 

As he returned to Lincoln to clear his desk and say his final farewells before a late afternoon, Fairway allowed himself a moment to review his career to date.  After a snapped ankle ligament on a muddy, cold, wet and thoroughly miserable afternoon at a reserve game on trial for Hartlepool ended his playing days, Fairway had moved north of the border to begin his managerial career, taking the reigns at unfancied Scottish Second Division Montrose . It had been a massive success - promotion in his first year at Links Park, taking the Gable Endies into the third tier for the first time since the mid-90's. The summer of promotion, however, saw despondency set in for the manager, and feeling increasingly homesick, he resigned in the June. A short spell at Isthmian League Enfield Town followed, where nothing seemed to work, with club and manager calling it a day by mutual consent as autumn turned to winter. A long few months later, with only media work to keep him involved in the game and after a couple of unsuccessful interviews, including one overseas, Fairway had been successful in landing the main job at Sincil Bank. A 4-3 win in his first game in charge had assured Lincoln of another year in the top flight of the Non League game, before a terrific first full season saw The Imps regain their Football League status. Not one for hanging around, Fairway had guided his side straight through League Two to the title, and promotion to the third tier of the English game for the first time since 1985-86. This summer had seen Fairway smash the club's transfer record to land League Two top goalscorer Paul Cook , 19, from his hometown club Barnet , and Cook had been instrumental, scoring 13 goals in just 21 league games as Lincoln rose to the upper echelons of the league. Victory on Wednesday night at lowly Port Vale saw his side reach the 40 point mark, second in the league behind fellow promoted club Cambridge United . He had turned down many, many interview offers from clubs in League One and League Two, but something about Preston had got him interested. One of the great clubs of the early days of professional football, but relegated from the top flight following the retirement of the late and legendary Sir Tom Finney in 1961, they had not been back since. When this club came knocking, Fairway thought to himself, you owe it to history to at least hear them out. He couldn't have said the same about Dagenham, Charlton, MK Dons or Walsall - but they too had wanted him this season. In short, Stuart Fairway was a man in demand. 

Vasile Pop's man in England, Lincoln City Managing Director Connor Christie was there to greet him as he parked, for the final time, in the Managers space in the car park at Sincil Bank. He offered a handshake to the manager, before ushering him inside. It was a brief conversation focusing mostly on the administrative aspects of his departure. Chatter had already started, the jungle telegraph pulsating with rumour and counter rumour, but both Christie and Fairway were keen that the Lincoln players and staff found out the truth from the man himself. They were all there, sitting in the press conference room, chatting amongst themselves when the door opened, and their manager strode in. Various other staff had joined them, standing on the edges, like distant cousins at a family wedding, not knowing where they should sit. Fairway opened his mouth to speak, and, after initially struggling to find the right words, began to explain where he was going and why he was doing it. By the end, a polite ripple of applause became a crescendo, as, one by one, his team and staff stood up and gave the former manager a standing ovation, leaving him with a lump in his throat. As goodbyes were said for the final time, Fairway made the familiar walk down the corridor of power to his old office, to collect the few personal belongings from his desk. He started successfully at Montrose, found nothing but disappointment at Enfield - but felt that he had become a real manager at Lincoln City, and he knew they would always have a special place in his heart. Turning to leave, there was time for one final farewell - Mark Morrison , his 33 year old former assistant manager, who had been with him as Under 20's manager at Montrose, would take caretaker charge, and it, was said, was in with a reasonable shout of making the job his own. Fairway wished his friend luck, and handed in his keys. With a quick glance over his shoulder as the back door closed, he knew it was time to go. Lincoln City were now his past - Preston North End his future.

[displaced_seagull]

Fairway arrived back at Deepdale late in the afternoon, glad to be done with the motorway after what had felt like endless driving, and just as he pulled up, the car radio blurted out the news that a press conference had been called by Preston North End for 8.30 the following morning amid speculation that the club were set to name the permanent successor to Paul Cook. At the same time, BBC Radio Lincoln would go live with an embargoed press release announcing Fairway's departure that they had been sitting on since breakfast. Various presenters over the day had tried to hint at the news, only for the aghast station manager, fearful of litigation, to quickly appear and shoot a stern glance. It would contain no hint of Fairway's destination - but two and two were quickly and successfully put together by most.

Settling into one of the luxurious chairs of the Deepdale boardroom, Fairway met the man whose viewing of the 2-0 away victory at Port Vale's new home had been pivotal in his appointment. Steve Osman was Andy Lamb's number two - older than the chairman in his late 40's, but a lifelong friend, fellow businessman and fellow investor in the club. He was also a football man, having been a successful player in the local non-league scene in his day, and had concurred with Lamb that Fairway was a manager who could inspire average players to new heights. Both Osman and Lamb explained that Fairway had the full backing of the board, and took him through the administrative rigmarole which starting a new job entails. They confirmed what he already knew - that a press conference would take place in the morning - but also introduced him to Ian Miller , who would become his new assistant, and the club captain, 32 year old central defender Tom Clarke . After a brief chat with Clarke, in which Fairway revealed he intended to bring his successful 5-3-2 formation with him from Lincoln City, Fairway was shown to his new office by Miller. The 65 year old immediately put Fairway at ease - he had been in the game a long time, and clearly knew his stuff - but also revealed that he planned to retire in the summer. Miller passed on some useful information to his new manager, going through the highlights of the squad with him. Given Preston's position of second bottom in the League, it was not entirely positive, but Fairway assured the Scotsman that he had known what he was getting into when he agreed to become the Deepdale manager. It would be a baptism of fire for the new man - a trip to Leeds United in two days time, before a week on the training ground and then his first home game, live on Sky, against Nottingham Forest on Saturday 5th December. 

Miller passed Fairway a carefully prepared dossier - full information on the current playing staff, including the statistics for the season to date. It would also be Fairway's turn to introduce someone, when Jason Cowan , appointed as Coach as part of the agreement, arrived having signed his new contract. After some kind and insightful words for both men, Miller left Fairway and Cowan to catch up before heading home for the day. The club had arranged for hotel accommodation, and plenty of midnight oil would be burnt in the coming hours as they plotted the future success of Preston North End with the help of Ian's information.

Andy Lamb noticed the glow of the light from the Manager's Office as he headed home. He knocked, then opened the door. "Time to call it a night lads. Hotel and meals are sorted for both of you for as long as you need it, your families will be with you for breakfast, I've booked a couple of early cars so they can get here before the media scrum starts". It was a gesture which hadn't been anticipated by the manager, who had been expecting another Sunday travelling cross-country. It was one which was very much appreciated. Lamb smiled, slightly amused by the naivety. "You are in The Championship now. At my club, we do things properly - and that means having those that really matter to you here with you. I'm only sorry it's not going to be tonight though, so have a couple of beers on me" he added, opening his wallet and slapping a £50 note on the desk. "Have a good evening". 

As Lamb bid farewell to Hayley he shared a thought with his close colleague and confidante. "I think we've got it right this time".

[displaced_seagull]

Fresh from a good night's sleep and a breakfast with his wife and children, Stuart Fairway had a spring in his step as he hopped into the car to head to Deepdale. The press conference would start shortly, and as he walked into the room, flashbulbs went off from what seemed like every direction. Sitting down beside his new Chairman, Fairway listened as Lamb went through his introduction, thanking Lincoln City for their cooperation and proclaiming his delight at having brought such a 'talented young English manager' to Preston.

Opening the floor for questions, It was Lincoln City that were the first club mentioned by Anna Dyachenko of ESPN. "Stuart, in leaving your previous job you have disappointed Lincoln supporters. Do you regret that?"

It wasn't quite the opening gambit Fairway had anticipated, but his reply came from the heart. "Of course I do" he calmly replied. "Football is like that at times, and I'd like to apologise to them, but hopefully they understand my reasons for doing so. This is a great club, and I couldn't turn the opportunity down". Further questioning followed, relating to priorities for the season, which both Fairway and Lamb were clear on, before the Chairman moved to signal the last question. Once that had been dealt with, and the piles of biscuits dotted around the room shrunk considerably in size, it would be off to the Springfields training complex to meet the players.

Quote

Preston North End - First Team Squad 
Name                                                   Position                       Age    Apps    Gls    Ast 
Matthew Hudson                               GK                                  22      2           0       0 
Ander Cantero                                    GK                                  25     16          0       0 
Marnick Vermijl                                  D (RL), WB (R)               28     18          1        1 
Brian Wilson                                       D (RLC)                           16     -             -         - 
Tom Clarke                                          D (RC)                            32    17            0       0 
David Smyth                                        D (RC), DM                   19    9 (1)        0        0 
Marvin Buchanan                                D (LC)                           17    -               -          - 
Greg Cunningham                               D (LC), WB (L)              29    19           0         1 
Paul Huntington                                  D (C)                              33    5 (1)       0         0 
Tim Hofstede                                       D (C)                              31    1 (1)       0         0 
Harry Toffolo                                       D/WB (L)                       25    7 (1)        1         1 
Ben Pringle                                          DM, M (RLC), AM (L)    32    14 (2)      0         2 
Ben Pearson                                        DM, M (C)                     25    6 (11)      0         0 
Alan Browne                                       DM, M/AM (C)               25   15            2         4 
Martyn Biggs                                       M (R), AM (RL)              19    7 (5)        1         1 
Daniel Johnson                                   M (LC), AM (C)               28    16 (2)      1         1 
Josh Windass                                      M/AM (RLC), ST (C)       26    11 (1)      2         0 
Callum Robinson                                M/AM (L)                       25    12 (1)      1         2 
Dan Crowley                                        M/AM (C)                      23    0 (7)        0         0 
Marvin Emnes                                     AM (RLC), ST (C)           32    5 (4)        1         1 
Gavin Caton                                         AM (LC), ST (C)             18    9 (4)         3        1 
Matthew Knox                                     ST (C)                             20    1 (6)         0        0 
Keinan Davis                                        ST (C)                            22    13 (1)       3         1

Ian Miller's report allowed him to put names to faces, but also showed some immediate issues. The only natural right back in the first team squad, Marnick Vermijl , was out injured for around a month, whilst central defender Tim Hofstede would also be an absentee for Saturday with a nasty gash on his thigh. Jamaican midfielder Daniel Johnson would also miss out through a one game suspension. The injuries meant there would be at least two of the youth team squad travelling to Elland Road, with senior cover at the back seriously lacking. 

Fairway noted that of his first team squad, four - Toffolo, Caton, Knox and Davis - were loanees. The loan market was not something which Fairway had often indulged in, preferring permanent signings, although with no chance to make any moves in the transfer market before January, he would have to live with the quartet for the time being. One in particular, striker Gareth Caton , on loan from Everton , looked particularly sharp, and would get the nod to lead the line in Fairway's first game.

Whilst Miller had concentrated mostly on the First Team squad, he did also provide information on the Under 23 and Under 18 sides - and Fairway was immediately concerned. With his focus on youth, he had hoped for some raw talent in these squads who could add depth to the first team - however his new assistant felt that such talent was lacking. Of the Under 23's only goalkeeper Ross Laidlaw , a 28-year old Scot, was of any immediate interest, whilst the cream of the Preston youngsters were out on loan - central defender Will Tuck earning rave reviews at Leyton Orient and a candidate for a recall in January, with versatile midfielder James Thomas , winger Adam Smith and striker Alex Lane also attracting positive comment. It was clear that outside of those five, Miller did not rate the players in the current youth setup, and when Fairway cast his eye over the initial impressions of the younger age group, it became apparent that none of the Under 18's impressed Jason Cowan either. 

As training concluded - a light session only ahead of a game - Fairway formally introduced himself to the squad, telling them all that as far has he was concerned, there were no preconceptions and that their season began now. Preston, he told them, sat 23rd of 24 teams in the Championship table - but they were only three points away, albeit with a considerable deficit on goal difference, from the safety of 21st. They had played just over a third of the season - which left two thirds to save their second tier status. With the January transfer window opening in just over a month, Fairway felt it prudent to mention that there were no certainties in football, with the implication that some would be playing for their futures.

Saturday morning saw Fairway awake to a steady drizzle, with the sky only getting greyer as his squad made their way along the motorway. He could only hope that the weather would not be a warning sign.

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 28th November 2020

Leeds United 0 - Preston North End 0

A goalless draw at Elland Road saw newly appointed Preston manager Stuart Fairway off to an unbeaten start. After a somewhat predictable welcome to The Championship with shouts of "Who are you?" from the home support, it was Preston who came closest to opening the scoring, Ben Pearson's drive from distance flying inches wide of the upright on 26. A minute later, the visitors again threatened, with Sam Johnstone parrying Josh Windass' initial effort, only for the ball to cannon back to the striker, who found the 'keeper grateful for a second opportunity to hold. Stuart Dallas' shot on the half hour was then held by Ander Cantero, before Sylvain Mirval fired over on 41 as the hosts broke quickly. 

Mirval failed to emerge after the break, with the out of favour Marcus Antonsson given a rare opportunity for United, but again it was the visitors who were closest after the break, with Paul Huntingdon heading wide from Dan Crowley's corner. Substitutions midway through the second period for both sides did little to improve the flow of the game, with the hosts seeing Stuart Dallas shoot wide on 70, before Kean Bryan's rising effort was turned behind by Ander Cantero six minutes later. 

Whilst neither side were able to break the deadlock, Preston will take great heart from a solid first performance under their new manager, but Fairway has work to do to improve his side's fortunes in front of goal - of their six shots, five were off target. Leeds too have work to do in that area - top goalscorer Sylvian Mirvel uncharacteristically subdued - and with the draw seeing Bob Bradley's side fall out of the playoff places, others will need to start contributing.

Leeds; Johnstone, Ayling (c), Briancon (Hector 68), Cooper, Fox, Reed, Bryan, O'Kane, Dallas, Kerim Frei (Lazzari 62), Mirval (Antonsson 45)

Unused; Huffer, Sancho, Tavernier, Wood

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham, Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo, Pearson (Pringle 62), Crowley (Emnes 71), Browne, Windass, Caton

Unused; Buchanan, Hudson, Davis, Wilson, Biggs

Referee; S Martin - Attendance; 27,237

A draw in his first match in charge was a decent enough return, and listening to the local supporters phone-in on the coach on the way back to Preston, Fairway was pleased to hear that supporters felt the same way. It would have been nice to start with a win, but an away trip to Leeds less than 48 hours after his arrival was always going to be a tough ask. The players too seemed happy - the point ending a run of four straight defeats under Paul Cook and latterly Sam Lock, and he now had a full week to work with his side on the training ground. Lincoln City, meanwhile, lost 3-0 at home to Gillingham. Mark Morrison's managerial debut had not gone as planned.

Fairway decided to get his family up early and out of the hotel on Sunday morning. It would be a first real chance for them to spend some quality time together, but he would also have an ulterior motive for a family drive to Wales - watching his Head of Youth Development Stuart Delaney take charge of the Under 23's in a friendly at Prestatyn . Bastion Gardens was usually a pleasant venue, but by the time Fairway had arrived, a stiff wind, bringing at times torrential rain, was coming in off the Irish Sea, and only the 6-2 victory, with hatricks for loanee Matthew Knox and winger Callum Robinson , could be described as pleasant parts of the afternoon's viewing. By the time they had dried off, however, a slap up Pizza tea and some time in the seafront arcades had raised everyone's spirits. 

Monday's training session went well, with morale in the camp clearly improved after the draw and Tim Hofstede fit enough to be considered for selection again. Fairway though had other things on his mind - crucial to his plans would be the recruitment of a new scouting team to serve under existing head scout Leon Hunter . His scouts at Lincoln had been busy, forever trekking around the country to watch players, and his new Chairman had told his manager that he would allow him to bring some in as a priority. A few calls later, including some hard bargaining, and offers were made. He would also make offers to two he had known in Scotland, Marvin Andrews and Duncan Shearer , offered the chance to become Under 18 and Under 23 managers respectively. Andrews would cost - currently employed by Brechin City - but Shearer had been out of work since a spell as Interim manager at Inverness Caledonian Thistle , and came highly recommended.

The first of the new arrivals put pen to paper on Wednesday morning, with Bobby Dickson arriving from Queens Park , whilst the following day, Ulsterman Laurence McCormick arrived from non-league Hollywood and Fairway spent the first of his transfer budget, with £3,200 in compensation to Brechin for Marvin Andrews . Ger O'Brien and Kenny Black would follow on Friday, but it was on the training ground where the real action was happening, as Fairway felt his squad had really pulled together during the week, with Daniel Johnson in particular chomping at the bit to be involved on Saturday after his return from suspension.

Friday morning's press conference touched on Fairway's additions to the backroom staff, and during the media call he was also able to confirm the final addition to his scouting team, 33 year old Welshman Dan Bradley , who had joined for a nominal fee from Porthmadog . With the team now assembled, Fairway sat down with Leon Hunter to hammer out destinations. He would be as good as his word to Andy Lamb, with all sent to scour Europe for young, cheap talent who could be moulded into the Preston side of the future. Just two - Bradley and O'Brien - would be needing their passports, with the others given the task of watching as many games in the Reserve and Youth leagues of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as possible. 

By Saturday morning, all were heading off in their various directions, and it would be time once again to concentrate on football. Fairway recalled Johnson to his side at the expense of Dan Crowley , and would also restore Tim Hofstede to the bench, replacing teenager Marvin Buchanan . Interest for tickets at Deepdale had been growing all week, and Fairway felt just a touch of nerves as he stepped out onto the windswept pitch in front of the Sky TV cameras with his Chairman to greet the applause of the home faithful for the first time. A win here could kickstart Preston's season. He didn't want to think of the alternative.

[displaced_seagull]

 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 5th December 2020

Preston North End 1 - Nottingham Forest 2

Nottingham Forest moved to within a point of the playoff places on a disappointing home debut for Preston's Stuart Fairway. The hosts began promisingly, with Josh Windass seeing an early chance blocked before Jack Hobbs diverted Harry Toffolo's cross for a corner. Forest quickly weathered the early storm, and on 11, only Ben Pearson's brave block denied Britt Assombalonga from distance. It was the striker who would open the scoring for the visitors on 18 - as Preston failed to deal with a corner, 'keeper Ander Cantero was poorly positioned to deal with the loose ball, which Assombalonga lashed home from the edge of the area. Better play from the home side followed the goal, with Gavin Caton flagged offside on 26 and Windass seeing an effort held on 41.

With the talented Irishman Daire Brady acting as a spoiler in midfield, Preston struggles to get their front two involved, with Windass in particular having to drop too deep at times to link up well with an increasingly frustrated Caton. forest added their second on 54 - Assombalonga turning provider with a cutback from the byeline after Anthony Forde's ball into the right hand channel - George Hirst powering a header home into the unguarded far corner. Frustratingly for the home support, it was again a lack of cutting edge that spoilt their attacking play, causing Fairway to adjust, Caton withdrawn for Keinan Davis and Dan Crowley replacing Alan Browne on 62. When the hosts did put the ball in the net, on 73, it came from a set piece - Crowley's corner nodded in off the woodwork by Paul Huntingdon . The goal gave Preston something to work with, and with newfound optimsim amongst the supporters, every forward pass was greeted with roars of approval. Eleven minutes from time, Preston thought they had done it - a clever change of pace from David Smyth leading to a cross which Keinan Davis prodded goalwards, only for John Ruddy to just stretch out enough to claw the ball to safety. 

Speaking after the game, a jubilant Paul Tisdale praised tormentor-in-chief Assombalonga. With his return of ten goals from 19 games this season, one can only wonder if he will still be at Forest come February.

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham, Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo, Pearson, Johnson, Browne (Crowley 62), Windass (Emnes 81), Caton (Davis 62)

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Wilson, Pringle

Nottm Forest; Ruddy, Fitzsimons, Hobbs (c), Iavocitti, Fryers (Cohen 77), Forde (Licá), Lansbury, Brady (Moore 87), Pilkington, Hirst, Assombalonga

Unused; Caillard, Mills, McAleny, Mancienne

Referee; M Oliver - Attendance; 19,563

 

 

With Preston involved in the early game, Fairway had plenty of time to stew over the result, and his mood was not improved by the news at teatime that Ipswich Town had won away at Fulham , moving them out of the relegation zone and leaving North End with a four point gap between themselves and safety. Andy Lamb , on the other hand, was not overly concerned. He watched from the directors box as Preston dominated possession, created chances and attracted the supporters in - the highest home gate (and gate receipts) of the season. One point from a possible six wasn't an ideal start for his new manager, but from what he had seen of him so far, he knew that nobody would want to rectify that more than the man himself.

Planning for the following week began almost immediately, with Fairway recieving both good and bad news on Sunday morning. Starting with the bad, he would be forced to scratch Keinan Davis off the list of possibles for Saturday, the loanee ineligible to play against his parent club - but a real positive was that Duncan Shearer had agreed to put pen to paper on an eighteen month deal to become Preston's Under 18 Manager. 

With Davis definitely out, Fairway paid close attention to the fortunes of the other strikers at his disposal in training on Monday, considering a trip to 17th placed Aston Villa distinctly winnable - but only if his side could start to hit the target on a regular basis. By the middle of the week, Fairway had made up his mind, and, after seeing Matthew Knox score in a 3-2 defeat to Carlisle for the Under 23's, would call the Rangers loanee back into the fold, albeit as an option from the bench, with Marvin Emnes set to be handed his first start under the new regime. The one missing out would be Josh Windass , who had failed to support the undoubtedly talented, if misfiring, Gavin Caton . 

A frustrating press conference on Friday morning saw Fairway field more questions about the opposition than his own side, with the future of Villa manager Ian Howell a matter for some debate. Getting back to the training ground, he would have a planned meeting with long-serving defender Paul Huntingdon , a veteran of over 250 Preston games.

"What can I do for you Paul?" the manager asked, wondering if the 33 year old, a free agent at the end of the season, was angling for a contract extension already. It was quite the opposite. Huntingdon explained that he felt he had achieved all he could at Preston, having served the club for nine years, and wanted to put in a transfer request. Fairway sighed. First the ever-baffling press, now this. 

"I'm short of defenders already. If you want, how about we look at a coaching role with the kids for you as well as playing?"

Huntingdon looked to the floor. "I'm sorry boss" he began. "I want to move into coaching one day, but I'm not ready to give up playing yet. That would put me in a position where others might see me as ready to quit, and I'm not".

Fairway could see where the meeting was heading, and didn't like it. "OK" he sighed. "I'll speak to the Chairman. You've been loyal to this club and we should be fair to you. I want to bring in a centre half in the window. When we do, if there is appropriate interest, I'll let you go".

This time, Huntingdon was more upbeat with his response. "That's fair enough boss, I appreciate you seeing where I'm coming from. Until the day I go, I will be completely committed to the club, you can count on that". 

Fairway relayed the tale later in the afternoon over coffee with Ian Miller . Miller's response was perhaps understandable for a 65 year old who had played the bulk of his football before the game became quite so financially rewarding. "Kids these days" he said with a shake of the head. "In my day you'd have done anything for another year when you were one away from a testimonial. We'll miss him, but if we can get someone in to replace him, then I suppose it'll be OK". Miller took a swig from his mug with a slightly wearied look on his face, leaving Fairway wondering if there was perhaps something else troubling him. He decided not to push it. 

Instead, the manager and his assistant went through the side for Saturday. The defence and midfield remained unchanged, with Emnes replacing Caton up front. On the bench, Knox replaced Davis as a straight swap. Third time the charm?

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 12th December 2020

Aston Villa 1 - Preston North End 1

Two sides desperately in need of a win met at a gloomy Villa Park on Saturday, and for the first twenty minutes, the game offered little in the way of respite for long suffering supporters of either club with no shots recorded. With the ball often bogged down in midfield, this was a drab affair at first, before Gavin Caton's thunderous free-kick stung the palms of home 'keeper Pierluigi Gollini from the edge of the box. After the free kick had been cleared away, and a lofted ball forward repelled, Villa broke quickly themselves, with Jack Grealish's through ball finding Jonathan Kodjia, who saw his effort tipped over by Ander Cantero. Kodija, not quite his usual mobile self after a robust early challenge, would then nod wide from close range.

Under pressure Villa boss Ian Howell replaced Kodija at the break, but still chances proved at a premium, although Florin Gardos was able to draw a fine save from Cantero on the hour. It appeared as if something special would be required to break the deadlock, and on 67, it did. Winning possession in midfield, Alan Browne exchanged passes with Ben Pearson, moving the ball left for Browne to find Caton. With his back to goal, the youngster laid the ball off, and Marvin Emnes lifted a dipping effort into the top corner of the net from the edge of the box. Villa sub Andre Green would then skew an effort wide on 76, whilst an animated Fairway made two changes for the visitors. It was one of those, Josh Windass, who found Emnes for what should have been his second on 77 - a perfectly weighted pass from Caton's short free kick for the Dutchman to shoot on the turn, only to see the ball go wide of the far post. Sensing a let-off, Villa threw men forward in search of an equaliser - Grealish testing Cantero from distance on 82, before sub Ben Pringle headed away John McGinn's inswinging corner on 85. Though Preston got the ball away, Ashley Westwood was able to out-muscle Emnes, launching a counter attack with a pass out to the left, for Grealish to centre and sub Tom Bradshaw to prod home at the near post. The pendulum could now have swung either way - first Green saw an effort blocked first by Cunningham and then the loose ball by Emnes, then, in the first minute of injury time, Harry Toffolo's ball over the top was fired against the outside of the post by substitute Matthew Knox. The draw, which benefits neither, perhaps the fairest result.

Aston Villa; Gollini, Cousins, Ephick, Gardos, Westwood, Alexander-Arnold (McArthur 54), Veretout, McGinn, Murphy (Green 51), Grealish, Kodjia (Bradshaw 45)

Unused; Ripley, Dann, Willock, Hepburn-Murphy

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham, Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo, Pearson, Johnson (Pringle 77), Browne (Windass 77), Emnes, Caton (Knox 79)

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Crowley, Wilson

Referee; L Mason - Attendance; 28,617

 

 

Whilst it was another draw, the Preston fans were certainly the happier of the two sets of supporters at the result. Villa dismissed Ian Howell after the game, Fairway commiserating with his former rival when the news, with a somewhat callous indifference to the man, broke before his Preston squad had even left Villa Park. Risking being drawn into the affair, Fairway praised Howell in a local radio interview after the game, commenting that it was never nice to see a fellow manager out of work. In that same interview Emnes' goal predictably drew the plaudits, but Fairway declared himself more pleased with the all-round contribution of the 32-year old. He linked play up well, passed accurately and generally proved a handful for the Villa defence. 

With Christmas fast approaching, and in the spirit of the season, Fairway began to draw up a shopping list on Sunday morning. Not a personal one - the Fairways had that covered with house prices cheaper in Preston than Lincoln, with the move planned over the school Christmas holidays - but one for the club, with opposite ends of the pitch needing strengthening. Quite where he was going to find a Championship level centre back and a centre forward though was a different matter entirely. With Chairman Lamb's agreement, he had reshuffled the budget split, reducing the wage budget to £175,000, but increasing the transfer budget to close to £600,000. Earlier in the week, Lamb had revealed the opportunity to cash in on a transfer clause, and with Eoin Doyle seemingly out of favour at Fulham , his manager had jumped at the opportunity, netting the club an extra £180,000 to bolster his fighting fund. The scouts had come up with a few possibles, as had Fairway himself, but there would be little time to ponder for anything other than some instructions sent to the scouting team with a game coming up on Tuesday evening.

With the match at home against managerless Barnsley, Preston trained lightly on Tuesday morning, knowing that their point at Villa Park, combined with results elsewhere, meant that they were again three points away from escaping the relegation zone, albeit with a goal difference that made it unlikely this particular evening. Fairway had decided to go with an unchanged side for the game, but fate - or more precisely, a winter flu bug - would change his plans. Ben Pearson looked a little peaky first thing in the morning, and soon found himself struggling. Club Doctor Dominic Lakeland was consulted, and Pearson would be confined to barracks with Lakeland concerned he was showing flu-like symptoms - not something which either the medic nor manager wanted spreading around the club. There would have to be a reshuffle - which meant a second start of the season for Dan Crowley .

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 15th December 2020

Preston North End 2 - Barnsley 1

Whilst this latest installment of the clash between age old rivals of Lancashire and Yorkshire will not decide anything other than local bragging rights immediately, Preston North End manager Stuart Fairway claimed that his side need to use their first victory under his management - and in 7 games - as the turning point for their season. Preston rode their luck in a nervy opening, with Ander Cantero making early saves from Freddie Sears and Solly March. Barnsley looked the more likely throughout the first half, let down by some lacklustre finishing from Sears in particular, whilst a fine Cantero save denied Andreas Pereira on 29. From the resulting corner, Preston broke - Marvin Emnes dispossessing Sears inside the centre circle to find Gavin Caton. He returned the favour with a pass that sent the veteran galloping forward, pulling the ball across the six yard box for the late arriving Daniel Johnson to steer into the net from close range in what would prove the last real chance of note in the first half.

The second period began with an optimistic effort from the visitors, Cole Kpekawa working an opportunity straight from the restart, only for Freddie Sears to fire over the top. Four minutes later those home supporters who had avoided the temptation to dwell in the Deepdale concourses on a wet and miserable evening were rewarded for their loyalty - Alan Browne's pass finding David Smyth, who is rapidly growing in confidence as a stand-in right wing back, who crossed into the middle. Tom Davies cleared, but few would have expected Daniel Johnson's acrobatic volley to hit the back of the net, via the slightest of deflections. Caretaker manager Jamie Clapham made an immediate change for Barnsley, bringing on Kenji Gorré for Pereria, but it was his replacement of the disappointing Sears with Sam Winnall a few minutes later which was to have the biggest impact on proceedings. Winnall gave a focal point for the Barnsley attack, and after a third change, with March withdrawn for pace-merchant Rolando Aarons, Barnsley's game plan became even more evident. The impact took some time to come, but it would - Aarons causing real problems on the right, and on 79, it was his corner which Sam Winnall headed home from the corner of the six yard box. There was suddenely a fear around Deepdale, and it took a good block from Tom Clarke on 82 to deny Gorré. The Preston captain's next interaction would not be so positive - as Morteza Pouraliganji lifted a free kick into the box, Clarke collided with Winnall, who promptly went to ground, giving Craig Mawson little choice but to point to the penalty spot. Gorré stepped up, went for power - and hit his effort straight at Cantero, who parried before a grateful Clarke thundered the ball to touch. The urgency from the visitors only increased - Aarons seeing an effort tipped onto the post, Gorré drawing another fine save, and even defender Scott Wharton testing the Spaniard with a volley from the edge of the box. Preston held on, and although they rode their luck a little at the end, will hope to push on from here.

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham, Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo (Pringle 85), Browne, Johnson, Crowley, Emnes (Knox 85), Caton (Windass 68)

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Wilson, Davis

Barnsley; Maxwell, Richards, Roberts (c), Wharton, Kpekawa, Pouraliganji, Davies, Boateng, March (Aarons 63), Pereira (Gorré 49), Sears (Winnall 55)

Unused; Walton, Egbo, Moore, Folivi

Referee; C Pawson - Attendance; 11,493

 

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The celebrations were more cathartic than joyful - a winless streak dating back to October had been ended, and Fairway too felt more relief than anything else at his side's win. He knew from experience this was the sort of result that could inspire teams - but equally that it would be forgotten come 5pm Saturday afternoon should they not follow it up. The ramifications though were certain - equal on points with 21st placed Millwall , with a trip to the capital to 'look forward' to at the weekend, this was a real opportunity to move Preston away from the relegation zone.

Whilst the players had a rest day, Deepdale would still be a hive of activity on Wednesday morning, and there was a spring in the step of chairman Andy Lamb as he strolled across the car park. He had taken to running his other business concerns from his office at the ground - the local boy still, at times, humbled at his position with his boyhood heroes. His good mood would not last long, as Hayley put a call through to him from overseas. D.C. United wanted Paul Huntingdon , and although he was obviously aware of the discussions that Fairway had engaged in with the centre back, the news was not something he wanted to recieve on the morning after a victory. After a quick chat with his manager, Lamb pushed for an increase in the transfer fee - and got it. Representatives from the MLS side would meet with Huntingdon in London after Saturday's game. Both manager and chairman hoped that the lure of the land of the free would not put their man off his game. Nobody could afford that.

Despite his possible departure, Fairway had no qualms about naming Huntingdon on the teamsheet at The Den, and it would be the usual back six, including 'keeper Ander Cantero , who took the field for Preston. There would though be two changes to the winning side - fit again Ben Pearson preferred to Dan Crowley , and Keinan Davis handed a chance up front in place of Gavin Caton , who found himself dropped to the bench.

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 19th December 2020

Millwall 5 - Preston North End 2

A masterclass from a former Preston loanee decided this bottom of the table clash, which showed that, despite a modern day focus on statistics, goals still win games. Preston started well on a bitterly cold afternoon, with first Daniel Johnson and then Keinan Davis both drawing saves from Jordan Archer within the first five minutes before shadows of events to come, when at the other end Admiral Muskwe headed against the post from Shaun Cummings' centre. It would be Preston, having had the run of the early play, who took a deserved lead on 31 - Alan Browne exchanging passes with Johnson, who teed up Keinan Davis to score with a shot into the top corner at the near post from the angle. After taking the lead though Preston failed to push on - only Harry Toffolo's perfectly timed slide tackle denying Victor Moses less than a minute later, whilst Shaun Hutchinson planted a free header wide on 35. Just before the interval, Millwall would level - Shane Ferguson's corner headed across goal by Kyle Bartley, with Admiral Muskwe arriving at the far post to head in off the underside of the crossbar.

As the second half began, chances came thick and fast - Muskwe close for Millwall, before Johnson rattled a free kick inches wide at the other end, and Ben Pearson saw Archer recover quickly to grab his half-volley at the second attempt. The hosts took the lead on 57 - Admiral Muskwe turning to fire Aly Cissokho's cross beyond Ander Cantero, but would be pegged back on 65 when sub Josh Windass was caught by the fullback inside the box, sending Archer the wrong way from the resulting spot kick. Fairway replaced a tiring Pearson with Dan Crowley, but it was the introduction of Keenan Bennetts for the visitors, replacing Shane Ferguson, which would lead to the next - decisive - goal of the seven. After good work from fellow sub Bobby Reid, Bennetts used his pace to great effect, blowing apart Preston's offside trap with a perfectly-timed run to smash home from close range. Four minutes later, as Preston pushed forward Windass was caught in possession in midfield, Ben Thompson found Jay Quitongo, and his deft pass allowed Admiral Muskwe to rifle home his hatrick. The Zimbabewean finished things off five minutes from time - Admiral Muskwe again on target, this time with a header from Reid's corner, leaving Preston, who dominated possession but did not take their chances, rueing what might have been.

Millwall; Archer, Cummings, Bartley, Hutchinson (c), Cissokho, Moses, Thompson, Gardner (Reid 65), Ferguson (Bennetts 65), Long (Quitongo 71), Muskwe

Unused; Girling, Berra, Clayton, O'Brien

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham, Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo, Browne, Johnson (Caton 71), Pearson (Crowley 65), Emnes (Windass 57), Davis

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Wilson, Pringle

Referee; A Marriner - Attendance; 8,282

As they trailed off the pitch, Preston North End's players would see a side to their manager that few of them had seen before. Their manager was furious at the manner of the defeat - they had switched off when dominating to allow Millwall to equalise, levelled themselves and then switched off again to concede three further goals in the last 15 minutes to fall to a heavy defeat. For a split second he thought about calling Vasile Pop in Lincoln and asking for his old job back, before coming to his senses. There would be days like this - hopefully not too many - but, as Ian Miller reminded him, nobody could win every game.

The first part of Monday's training saw an unscheduled bleep test conducted by the coaching staff although Marnick Vermijl, back in training after strained knee ligaments, would be excused, whilst Fairway remained in his office, pouring over scout reports. He wanted to act quickly and decisively in January, and, with Christmas rapidly approaching, needed to act fast. Preston would make the (very) long trip south to Portsmouth on Boxing Day, the Hampshire side rooted to the bottom of the table, and with his side only two points behind Barnsley, if they could get over Saturday's farce, another ideal opportunity to move out of the relegation zone. There would also be breaking news from Lincoln , with ex-Bradford boss Luke Torjussen appointed as Fairway's successor. He felt sorry for Mark Morrison that things had not worked out, but was pleased to see that Torjussen had retained Morrison in his post as Assistant.

News would come through on Wednesday that Paul Huntingdon had come to a decision on his future, the defender agreeing to move to DC United for a fee of £100,000 up front with clauses taking the deal to a possible £125,000 should he prove a hit. Andy Lamb was pleased enough with the move, which would not complete until the MLS transfer window opened in February, but would also have to get his own chequebook out, as Fairway made two acquisitions of his own in the week before Christmas. Firstly, on Wednesday, a £55,000 fee was agreed with Reading for 22 year old striker Stephy Mavididi , born in Derby but of Congolese descent, who had scored 38 goals in 92 league appearances, all of them out on loan from either Reading or Arsenal , where he came through the ranks. The following day, Christmas Eve, Johnny Burn agreed to become the second of the new signings - a towering, 6'4" centre back, Fairway felt that Burn, at 25, could become an important part of the squad for years to come, and was delighted to capture a player who Derby County had paid over half a million for a year previously for a knock-down £300,000. Securing Burn's signature would be Fairway's penultimate action at Deepdale before Christmas, coming just before another early present from Head Physio Matt Jackson , who revealed that Vermijl was fit enough for a squad place if required on Saturday. It would not be the only early arrival - with the coach due to depart midway through Christmas morning, this year the Fairway's would be joining Chairman Andy Lamb and his wife for an evening 'Christmas Dinner' in the evening. The manager hoped he would be in a position to return the gesture the following year.

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 26th December 2020

Preston North End 3 - Portsmouth 2

Preston North End manager Stuart Fairway told BBC Radio Lancashire that his side had given him the perfect Christmas present but warned they would have to play better after North End bounced back from last weeks collapse at Millwall to record a somewhat fortunate 3-2 win over troubled but spirited Pompey. The Hampshire club, who have taken just ten points from their opening 24 games belied their lowly position with a gung-ho start, Ander Cantero holding Matt Clarke's header, with Sone Aluko then hitting the side netting. It was somewhat against the run of play then when Preston took the lead on 20, with Daniel Johnson continuing the rich vein of form that has apparently attracted attention from overseas, an effort from the edge of the box taking a slight deflection before finding the corner of Nick Hall's net. Portsmouth soon bounced back, Aluko again shooting wide and Cantero holding a Lewis Grabban header, but would go further behind on 32, after David Smyth's cross was thrashed behind for a corner. Johnson took it, curling an inswinging ball into the box, and after a brief scramble, Ben Pearson reacted to prod home at the near post. Portsmouth would pull a goal back before the break, Preston's defence again static, expecting an offside flag from Andy Kellett's long ball, to allow Milan Lalkovic to slam the ball past a furious Cantero. 

A slower start to the second period brought a string of corners for the home side without threatening Cantero's goal, before Tosin Kehinde should have done better on 64. Sensing the danger, Preston reacted by withdrawing Greg Cunningham, who had been booked for an early lunge, for the fit again Marnick Vermijl, but it was still Portsmouth who looked the more likely and so it would prove on 72, when Kellett's chase caused confusion, and his cross was neatly nodded in by substitute Carlton Morris . Stung by losing the lead they had held onto for much of the game without ever looking like adding to it, suddenly Preston reacted - Marvin Emnes' shot from the edge of the box turned over by Hall, and Ben Pearson leapt to head his second from another Johnson corner. Home morale dipped dramatically - passes going astray as Portsmouth struggled to comprehend their luck, and even more so when Fairway made a defensive change, pushing Alan Browne up front in place of Emnes and bringing Dan Crowley off the bench in midfield to shore things up. Grabban could have levelled late on - his shot from distance just over the top - summing up a day when Portsmouth had missed out on the presents and been left with the wrapping paper.
 
Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham (Vermilj 67), Huntingdon, Smyth, Toffolo, Browne, Johnson, Pearson, Emnes (Crowley 78), Davis (Windass 60)

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Caton, Pringle

Portsmouth; Hall, Walshe, Clarke, Whatmough (c), Kellett, Close (Collins 65), Draper (Kehinde 57), Aluko (Morris 45), Whittle, Lalkovic, Grabban

Unused; Bass, Chaplin, Reckford, Daniels

Referee; D Bond - Attendance; 18,528

With games coming thick and fast there would be no time for Preston's squad to enjoy the delights of the Solent - back on the coach ahead of a long journey northwards. There would be no training on Sunday - the late night arrival preventing that - but Fairway would endure a press conference on Sunday afternoon ahead of the Bank Holiday Monday visit of Reading . Mercifully, it was a quick process, with just a handful of questions to bat away, although the manager was pleased to confirm that the medical department had now passed Marnick Vermilj as fully fit, and that he was considering the full back, for a slot in the starting eleven. Elsewhere, the big news was managerial - Chris Powell appointed as Aston Villa manager, whilst Barnsley took a chance on David Wilson , who had been in charge of Colchester United , currently topping League Two. 

Fairway gathered his staff and squad for a pep talk on Monday morning. With two league games in three days (Reading in the afternoon and Hull City on Wednesday night, plus another game on Saturday), he expected competition for places to be fierce, with the January transfer window - and the already agreed new faces - coming up within the week - although it would be an unchanged side for the Royals visit.

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Monday 28th December 2020

Preston North End 3 - Reading 1

Preston North End recorded consecutive wins for the only the second time this season with a 3-1 victory over a disappointing Reading. The hosts, fielding an unchanged side from the Boxing Day win over Portsmouth, started well, with Keinan Davis earning a corner early on, before Greg Cunningham headed wide from Alan Browne's corner on 17. Preston would suffer a blow on 29 when striker Marvin Emnes was forced off injured, but six minutes later took the lead with an excellent break. Tom Clarke headed clear from a Reading corner, and as Preston surged forward, Keinan Davis found Ben Pearson, who played the ball back across to the left hand side of the box for Daniel Johnson to lash a shot which seemed to slip through the hands of Ibrahima Sy. Before half time it was two - Johnson this time turning provider, laying the ball off to Alan Browne, for a chip over the Royals defence which Keinan Davis took in his stride to slot beyond the advancing Sy.

Reading would make three changes in quick succession after the break, but it was not until the hour mark that the replacements had a real impact, when Victor Anichebe turned away from David Smyth, before finding John Swift with a fine pass, only for the midfielder to drag his effort wide from the edge of the box. Four minutes later the visitors would pull one back, with a goal of real class - Jack Rodwell playing a ball into the path of Chris Gunter, who exchanged a smart one-two with Ben Gladwin and then crossed for Victor Anichebe to tap home from close range. Any fears of a repeat of recent weeks though for the hosts were unfounded, as within five minutes of the restart, Preston had regained their two-goal cushion when another defence-splitting ball from Browne teed up Josh Windass , who had replaced the injured Emnes, to slot between the legs of the advancing Sy from the edge of the box. Preston now clearly had the upper hand - Pearson inches wide from the edge of the box, before sub Dan Crowley curled just over. Whilst Reading will be disappointed, it was a much better performance all round from Preston - although with another game in two days, it remains to be seen if, with their high-tempo passing game, fatigue will play a part - or if this revival will continue. 
 
Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham , Huntingdon (Vermilj 60), Smyth, Toffolo, Browne, Johnson (Crowley 60), Pearson, Emnes (Windass 30), Davis

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Caton, Pringle

Reading; Sy, Gunter, Keown, Cooper, Turnbull, Gladwin, Rodwell, McEachran (Swift 51), Forsyth (Grant 45), Barrett (Anichebe 57), Gregory

Unused; Bond, McShane, Moore, Williams

Referee; R Madley - Attendance; 11,084

The difference at Deepdale from a week previous was more than noticeable, and Fairway hoped his side could keep spirits high beyond the festive season. After checking in on the medical team, who informed him that the services of Marvin Emnes would not be available in the near future - the veteran Dutchman diagnosed with a badly sprained ankle that would rule him out for up to a month, Fairway spent much of Tuesday morning in discussion with the scouting team, working on transfer targets. As reports were consulted from across the scouting team, the one name which kept cropping up was one that the manager knew the budget would not stretch to. Nicky Hughes , a 19 year old midfielder at Aberdeen , would make the ideal signing for a team who wanted to focus on youth - a highly determined, driven character, Hughes' technical ability had earned him rave reviews, but with the Dons seemingly somewhat cautious regarding introducing him to regular first team football, Fairway felt that there was a risk the Scottish Under 21 international would stagnate, and put him on the shortlist for a potential move later in the window. Whilst he had mostly concentrated on who he wanted to bring into the club, it was hard to ignore the tabloid rumours on who could leave - not just Daniel Johnson , who he knew had been watched by Levante , but also Ben Pearson , who was apparently interesting Leeds United . 

Even if they would free up the funds for Hughes, Fairway wanted to see neither leave - both had proved to be key parts of the side since his arrival and would prove difficult to replace. That wasn't to say that he didn't want to sell anyone - with Paul Huntingdon already agreeing a deal elsewhere, there would be a discussion with Callum Robinson on Wednesday morning as the players trained ahead of the trip to Hull City , with the result that the Winger's details would be circulated. It was nothing against the lad himself, but more a move of circumstance - Preston's 5-3-2 not requiring out and out wingers such as Robinson. The player took it reasonably well and perhaps, Fairway thought, had seen his transfer-listing coming.

After the difficult conversation of the day had been undertaken, thoughts turned to the trip east, with Marnick Vermilj told he would start in place of David Smyth , and Josh Windass earning a recall for the unfortunate Emnes.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Wednesday 30th December 2020

Hull City 2 - Preston North End 3

At times stylish and at others scrappy, a wintery evening with sleet blowing in off the North Sea both delighted and frustrated in equal parts. Preston continued their good recent form with a victory but again looked vulnerable at the back whilst Hull supporters left were somewhat bemused by Sam Allardyce's team selection. 

After a slow start it was the visitors who drew first blood, when Ben Pearson passed square to Daniel Johnson, who played a direct ball into the channel for Josh Windass. Windass was outmuscled, but Johnson seized the loose ball for a second time, finding Keinan Davis who drilled beyond 'keeper Karl Darlow from close range. Hull responded almost instantly, with a classic Allardyce goal - Richard Smallwood breaking quickly down the right, and playing a deep cross to the far post. Both Clarke and Greg Cunningham could, and indeed should, have cleared with ease, but left the ball to their teammate, allowing Harry Bunn to steal in with a tap in from close range. Hull's unusual choice of the 35 year old veteran Stephen Ward as a makeshift striker came close to paying off in dramatic style on 38, when the Irishman unleashed an effort from distance which required a smart stop from Ander Cantero to tip over the bar. The resulting corner was quickly cleared away, and on 41, Preston regained the lead - moving the ball quickly through the midfield, with Alan Browne finding Johnson, who played the ball left for Harry Toffolo to cross for Josh Windass to volley home against his boyhood club. 

Windass would turn provider on 54, as the second half started with both sides upping the tempo, in contrast to what had been a turgid opening spell of the first period - collecting Pearson's pass wide on the right to find Keinan Davis inside the area, who made no mistake with a first time shot on the turn. Hull came into the game with the nine-goal Ashley barnes left out completely, but when top scorer Jason Cummings was withdrawn shortly before the hour, the home support seemed bemused when 17 year old Rúben Seide was sent on to partner Ward up front. Instead their biggest goal threats would come from midfield - after Davis had headed wide for Preston on 65, James McClean sent in an effort which Cantero could only parry, before Harry Bunn added his second from the Irishman's square ball. Ryan Mason blazed over with a minute remaining, but Preston would hold on, and although not pretty at times, the away contingent went home by far the happier set of supporters having seen their side move away from the relegation zone.
 
Hull; Darlow, Thandi, Ajeti, O'Connell, Wilson (McClean 60), Smallwood, Tunnicliffe, Livermore (Mason 51), Bunn, Cummings (Seide 54), Ward

Unused; Marshall, Doherty, Elmohamady, Walsh

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Cunningham , Huntingdon (Smyth 74), Vermilj, Toffolo, Browne, Johnson (Crowley 74), Pearson (Pringle 62), Windass, Davis

Unused; Hofstede, Hudson, Caton, Roberts

Referee; T Robinson - Attendance; 19,632

Victory would - at last - move Preston out of the relegation places, and Fairway was quick to remind his players after the game that he did not want to see the club fall back into the drop zone again. 

Heavy snow across the north of the country made training challenging - the Preston management team keen to avoid injuries, meaning there would be a lot more tactical work than usual in the run-up to Saturday's FA Cup Third Round game against Wycombe Wanderers . The League Two club represented a different challenge for Fairway's men, leaving the manager with something of a selection dilemma. One player though who would not be involved was Gavin Caton , who returned somewhat unexpectedly to Everton on New Year's Day, recalled to Goodison Park following injuries. His replacement - Stephy Mavididi , who, along with Johnny Burn , completed his transfer as the window opened. After much soul-searching, multiple changes for the Cup tie were signalled, with Burn handed an immediate debut and Huntingdon, Toffolo and Pearson rested. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 2nd January 2021

Preston North End 4 - Wycombe Wanderers 0

Preston North End manager Stuart Fairway brushed off claims from opposite number Michael Appleton that he had 'disrespected his club's proud traditions in the FA Cup' by making a number of changes to his starting eleven, pointing to the number of games his side had played in the last few days - and the final score - as justification. Changes or not, Fairway saw Preston take an early lead, when Alan Browne's mazy solo run, culminating in a pass to the right, saw Marnick Vermilj cross for Daniel Johnson to shoot home from the edge of the box. The goal signalled the start of what proved a dominant performance from North End, with Josh Windass shooting just wide and Keinan Davis grazing the bar. 

If Appleton hoped his comments on Fairway's starting selection would fire up his side, he would have hoped for further inspiration when goalscorer Johnson failed to emerge after the break - but his replacement, Ben Pringle lashed a 20-yarder into the top corner from the edge of the box three minutes after coming on for the Jamaican. Two minutes later Ben Pringle made it three, shooting home from Greg Cunningham's cross, and when Dan Crowley added the fourth on 56 from Pringle's assist, the game was over as a contest. Ironically it was the fourth goal that prompted a response from a shellshocked Wycombe, with Caolan Lavery hitting the post soon after the restart, before Cedric Evina planted a header wide of target from a corner. Preston, by now playing at almost testimonial pace, knocked the ball around nicely despite increasingly heavy snowfall, with new signing Johnny Burn in particular impressing at the back. His fellow newcomer, Stephy Madividi, who replaced Keinan Davis, would be denied by the post on 79, and Wycombe skipper Jack Fitzwater headed Kellan Gordon's free kick against the bar at the other end, but there would be no further goals as Preston cruised towards the fourth round.
 
Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne (Roberts 57), Johnson (Pringle 45), Crowley, Windass, Davis (Mavididi 45)

Unused; Huntingdon, Hudson, Pearson, Toffolo  

Wycombe; Brown, Harriman, Fitzwater, Dieng, Hanley, Gordon, Grant, Adams (Barlaser 58), Evina, Waring (Lavery 53), Dunkley (Rowe 57)

Unused; King, Forbes, Goode, James

Referee; M Dean - Attendance; 9,110

Wycombe - or their manager - perhaps understandably did not hang around for very long at Deepdale after full time, but despite the comfortable victory, proceedings did not entirely go Preston's way, with Stephy Madividi the victim of a heavy challenge late on and ruled out for a few days with a bruised rib.

The draw for the fourth round was made early on Monday afternoon, just as Fairway was about to go into his first monthly meeting with Andy Lamb . The Cup draw was - unexpectedly - the first matter on the table, with Lamb delighted from a financial perspective that Preston would go to Premier League giants Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The second would be Fairway's performance as manager, and on this delicate - but vital - matter, Lamb declared himself and the board 'very pleased' with performances since Fairway's arrival, noting that whilst the shocker at The Den had been a disappointment, the three victories against Portsmouth, Reading and Hull had delighted those behind the scenes. With the mood good, Fairway decided to push his luck, asking director Steve Osman if there was any chance of setting up a 'first option' link with a club in order to boost Preston's hopes of securing young talent. Osman, who had just revealed that the debt had raised to £1.4 Million, rather surprisingly agreed to the move. Sensing Fairway's discomfort at hearing the realities of the financial situation, Lamb was quick to quell any fears. "Don't worry about it" he calmly explained. "It's paper money at the moment - we are on course to pass the Financial Fair Play regulations, and come the end of the season the TV revenue and season ticket sales should cover the shortfall". 

Bidding his Chairman farewell, Fairway wondered to himself if he could now justify his latest transfer dealing, as Iranian international Afshin Abbasfard arrived from Tehran to discuss terms over a £75,000 move. The 20 year old central midfielder though was a real talent, and as he had been given the funds to manoeuvre in the transfer market, felt he would trust in Lamb that all would be well. Abbasfard's agent, a somewhat elderly but clearly well-respected gentleman who represented many of Iran's brightest young talents, was keen to speak to a European club, assuring Fairway privately that he would look to dissuade the midfielder from moving to South Korea, where he was also a target for  FC Seoul , but that given their interest, a decision may take a while to be made.

Although Madividi returned to training on Tuesday morning ahead of the visit of Birmingham in the evening and would be fit to take a place on the bench, Fairway did make once amendment to his winning side, restoring Ben Pearson in place of Dan Crowley , whilst David Smyth again got the nod over the soon to depart Paul Huntingdon at left centre back.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 5th January 2021

Preston North End 0 - Birmingham City 1

A flat game that will not live long in the collective memories of either set of supporters was eventually decided by a late penalty at Deepdale after neither side had done enough to score from open play. The hosts had the better of the opening, with Daniel Johnson twice curling wide inside the opening ten minutes, before Ander Cantero did well to deny Nikolai Brock-Madsen on 12. Johnson sent another free kick wide two minutes later, before Preston's best opportunity came on 24, when Keinan Davis reacted quickest to Giedrius Arlauskis' parry, only for Leandro Bacuna to tackle just as the Aston Villa loanee was about to pull the trigger.

Birmingham held firm though, and the tide seemed to change after the interval, with sub Ogo Obi shooting wide on 49 before Brock-Madsen headed over from Jonathan Grounds' cross on 51. Preston replaced a tiring Johnson with Saturday's two-goal hero Ben Pringle, but found themselves contained by a hardworking Blues, and it took a good Cantero save to prevent Diego Fabbrini from heading home, before Pringle skewed wide from the edge of the area on a rare forward foray for the hosts. After Davis - with his parent club manager Chris Powell watching on - was forced off with a knock, warm applause greeted new boy Stephy Mavididi. With a draw looking the more likely, Charlie Colkett's free kick into the box saw Tom Clarke bundle over Viv Solomon-Otabor, and although Cantero guessed the right way, Diego Fabbrini still found the left hand corner. Cantero continued to stand up well, denying Solomon-Otobor's wicked left-foot drive on 87, before Marnick Vermijl's shot across goal from Mavididi's knock-down summed up Preston's evening. 
 
Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson (Pringle 54), Pearson, Windass, Davis (Mavididi 69)

Unused; Huntingdon, Hudson, Crowley, Toffolo, Knox

Birmingham; Arlauskis, Bacuna, Morrison (c), Downing, Grounds, Eyenga-Lokilo (Solomon-Otabor 61), Kieftenbeld, Colkett, Quinn, Brock-Madsen (Fabbrini 51), Stewart (Obi 45)

Unused; Martin, Coton, Bajrami, Tesche

Referee; J Linnington - Attendance; 13,719

A first defeat in five games dampened the mood slightly, but with other results not going against them, Preston remained in 18th position, four clear of the drop zone, with 29 points, and, crucially, four days before the long trip to Brighton . Wednesday would also see a departure, albeit a temporary one, with Martyn Biggs , a winger who Ian Miller and the coaching staff rated very highly, sent off to Aberdeen for the rest of the season, with the Scottish outfit paying 10% of his wages.

The following day though there would be two arrivals - or at least returns, as another highly rated youngster, James Thomas , returned from a six month loan spell at Wrexham . The 19 year old had enjoyed a good spell in Wales, scoring twice but, more promisingly, assisting on seven occasions for the National League leaders, and with rumours stepping up regarding Levante's interest in Daniel Johnson Fairway felt that having such a creative midfielder in the ranks raring to go was no bad thing. The other would be Alex Lane , a 17-year old striker a little less well developed, but still scorer of 9 in 20 in the same division for Macclesfield Town . 

His Friday press conference rather surprisingly did not mention the rumours, but when it had concluded, and before the coach arrived for the long journey to the South Coast, the manager did learn that Afshin Abbasfard had rejected the chance to swap Naft Tehran for Preston, instead rejecting the apparent advice of his agent to join Seoul . With no Keinan Davis , who had been ruled out for a week with a thigh strain, Stephy Mavididi was told somewhere on the M62 that he would start at the American Express Stadium, whilst James Thomas would also be included in the matchday squad.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 9th January 2021

Brighton & Hove Albion 0 - Preston North End 0
 
'An excellent game which just happened to finish goalless' was the reaction of former Brighton & Hove Albion legend Bobby Zamora to a game which managed to hold the attention of both sets of supporters despite the lack of goals. How the Seagulls missed his predatory instincts early on - Dominic Solanke and Niall Ennis both close in the opening ten minutes before the third Albion striker, Manuel Pucciarelli, was denied by Tom Clarke's block on 11. Brighton continued to pile pressure on throughout the first half, with Preston repelling the Seagulls at every turn, Pucciarelli heading wide on 23 before their frustrations began to mount, with Oliver Norwood perhaps slightly fortunate to only see yellow for a trip on Stephy Mavididi. The young striker had Preston's best chance on 39, rifling a half-volley which Elliott Arnold deflected wide, though it would take a good stop from Ander Cantero to deny Pucciarelli on 43.

Brighton brought on the fit-again golden boy Andy Morning at half time, perhaps wisely replacing Norwood, with Pucciarelli again wasteful on 56, doing well to intercept a loose pass out from Cantero, but then delaying his shot, allowing the Spanish 'keeper to narrow the angle and turn his effort around the post with the target gaping. Preston's Mavididi nearly stunned the home support on 62, shooting inches wide of the near post from Greg Cunningham's pull back, but the danger was mostly at the other end as Preston defended manfully, playing with tremendous resilience which even drew some admiring applause from the home support. After Brighton seemed to run out of steam - Fredrik Oldrup Jensen shooting well wide from the edge of the box with options ahead of him - Preston could even have snatched it at the death, when Benoit Costil had to react quickly to tip sub James Thomas' effort wide - with the visitors certainly the happier of the two sides come the final whistle. 

Brighton; Costil, Furling, Cathcart, Arnold, Gallagher, Norwood (Morning 45), Oldrup Jensen, Davenport (Snodgrass 71), Pucciarelli, Solanke (Clough 62), Ennis

Unused; Walker, Smith, Fraser, Francis

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne (Thomas 71), Johnson, Pearson, Windass (Knox 71), Mavididi

Unused; Huntingdon, Hudson, Crowley, Toffolo

Referee; J Simpson - Attendance; 23,215

Taking the opportunity to make some personal visits in his native county, Fairway and his family did not return to Preston until Monday morning, where his first task was to appear at a press conference to announce Preston's new link with Cirencester Town , who had jumped at the opportunity to tie up an arrangement with North End to offer a first option on their players. Privately Fairway was somewhat disappointed and had hoped for a higher standard of feeder club, but nonetheless, dutifully smiled and offered some soundbites on the 'wonderful opportunity' that the deal offered to both clubs. Some the fringe members of Duncan Shearer's Under 23 squad were offered to Cirencester as a result, and by the end of the day left back Jack Maes , midfielders Lewis King, Tom Turner and Louis Best , as well as striker Osei Sulley were winging their way southwards until the end of the season.  

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Sky Sports News - 10.49AM

BREAKING NEWS... Brentford Meet Pearson Release Clause

 

The media knew only minutes after the manager, with Andy Lamb having some very angry words with a junior member of the Preston media team as a result. He had hoped to keep the news quiet for a little longer - but it was true. With a release clause of £2.2 Million in Ben Pearson's contract, Lamb and Fairway had no choice but to accept the offer from Brentford , and the midfielder was given reluctant permission to travel to the capital to discuss personal terms. Both manager and chairman reassured Pearson that, should he turn down Brentford's offer, he would be offered a new contract at Deepdale, but for now, all they could do was wait and see.

Pearson would not be the only potential departure - although the offer from Blackburn Rovers of £125,000 for winger Callum Robinson was on the low side of paltry, in Fairway's eyes, the winger's attitude following his transfer listing had annoyed not only the manager but also his usually placid assistant, Ian Miller , and was accepted. By Saturday morning, with top of the table Cardiff City in town, both potential departures were still available to play, with Robinson - who wouldn't be involved, and Pearson - who would - both declaring that they would ponder the moves further on Sunday with anticipated decisions earlier in the new week. Despite the transfer news, the only change to the starting eleven was in attack, with Keinan Davis passing a fitness test to replace Josh Windass , with Fairway gambling that raw pace could be a useful weapon against a Cardiff side who had only lost 3 games all season.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 16th January 2021

Preston North End 2 - Cardiff City 2
 
A terrific game at Deepdale saw leaders Cardiff City held for the first time  since Boxing Day. Both sides had early chances in a breathless opening, with Rob Noble heading wide on 4 and Keinan Davis' half-volley tipped behind by Will Mannion a minute later. Davis would be denied again on 18, this time by the woodwork after a ferocious drive from Greg Cunningham's floated cross, but on 24 the young striker turned provider, squaring for Daniel Johnson to slot home and complete a well-worked move down the Cardiff left. The reply from the leaders was instant, if frustrating for Preston, with skipper Tom Clarke dwelling on a pass out from Ander Cantero, and dispossed by Rob Noble leading to a simple finish. Preston again upped their game in response, with Cunningham's low cross earning a corner on 30, and Davis drawing an acrobatic save from Mannion a few minutes later. 

Cardiff saw the half out, and after emerging early from the changing rooms, looked a different side - Harry Maguire heading wide from Emyr Huws' cross on 53 and Nahki Wells hitting the post a minute later. Preston, by contrast, were now on the back foot, although Johnson's free kick went just over on 64. Preston would make a triple change on 72 - Josh Windass, Ben Pringle and Paul Huntingdon replacing Davis, Alan Browne and Clarke, before, three minutes later, their luck appeared to run out when former North End fullback Tyrone Mings scampered away from Marnick Vermilj to cross for Rob Noble to net his 17th of the campaign from close range. Down, but not quite out, Preston came at Cardiff, with sub Pringle shooting wide from the edge of the box on 81 and Ben Pearson's effort turned wide two minutes later. Finally - and deservedly - Preston broke, two minutes from time, and levelled - Pringle finding goalscorer Johnson via a deft touch from Windass, who played the ball in behind for a delighted Stephy Mavididi to run on, ignoring what appeared genuine offside claims from the visiting defence, and steer the ball into the corner of Mannion's net. Preston could have snatched it in injury time - Ben Pringle's effort held by Mannion - but a draw was certainly fair on a day when both teams put on a real spectacle.

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c) (Huntingdon 72), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne (Pringle 72), Johnson, Pearson, Davis (Windass 72), Mavididi

Unused; Hudson, Crowley, Toffolo, Thomas

Cardiff; Mannion, Wisdom, Maguire, Connolly (c), Mings, Cuenca (Hanni 45), Maitland-Niles (McGowan 57), Huws (Shaef 57), Ocampos, Wells, Noble

Unused; Steer, Wright, McLeish, Daniels

Referee; M Clattenburg - Attendance; 12,537

Frustratingly, despite his side's superb, battling performance, the first post-game question which Fairway faced was around the ongoing transfer saga surrounding Ben Pearson . Pearson's future, Fairway emphatically stated, was in his own hands - although the midfielder's kind gesture of handing his shirt to a fan in the disabled section before leaving the pitch did seem to show that his mind had been made up.

There was still no news when training resumed on Tuesday morning, with Fairway instead only assenting to a loan extension for teenage midfielder Graham Hargreaves at Nuneaton until the end of the season. The afternoon though saw Pearson clear his locker and Chairman Andy Lamb bank a £2.2 Million cheque. The departure was, when it came, relatively swift, although Pearson did tell Fairway that the decision to leave had not been an easy one, and that he wished Preston all the best for the future. No sooner than Pearson had departed, Callum Robinson followed him out of Deepdale, the winger quick to agree terms with Blackburn Rovers on a £125,000 move which suited all three parties. 

Speaking to Lamb to see where he stood with regards to the windfall on Wednesday morning, Fairway was somewhat surprised, given the recent board meeting, but nonetheless delighted, to have been handed close to £1.6 Million with which to reinvest. He knew exactly where the majority of it would go, tabling an offer of £600,000 with Aberdeen for Nicky Hughes , and after much give and take, a package was finally agreed late in the afternoon - £725,000 up front, plus extra after a set number of league appearances, senior international caps and league goals - as well as a sell-on fee - totalling a possible £1.3 Million. 

Fortunately personal terms with the 19 year old Edinburgh-born midfielder were agreed in a more reasonable timescale than the fee, with Hughes able to link up with his new teammates midway through Friday's light training session ahead of the Saturday teatime trip to Sunderland . Hughes would be straight in for his debut, although Fairway knew he would be unlikely to complete the game having sustained a slight knock earlier in the week, whilst fit-again Marvin Emnes replaced James Thomas amongst the substitutes. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 23rd January 2021

Sunderland 2 - Preston North End 2
 
Sunderland's newly appointed Robbie Stockdale enjoyed a warm reception at The Stadium Of Light before his first home match in charge, but would not have things entirely his own way on a day when the points were shared. Sunderland, backed by their vociferous supporters, heeded Stockdale's request to start off on the right foot, and Ander Cantero was forced to tip Andy King's drive over on 8. Jerry Mbakogu then shot wide from distance, whilst Preston's best chance of the early exchanges saw Adam Davies hold from Stephy Mavididi's header. It was on 31 that the deadlock was broken - Chris Willock slipping the ball wide for Duncan Watmore to cross for Jerry Mbakogu to shoot home from close range. The lead would not last long - Alan Browne's pass finding Greg Cunningham, who curled in a cross from the left, which Keinan Davis brought down before firing into the far corner. The equaliser inspired the visitors, and on 41, they would take the lead - Johnny Burn's powerful header repelling a Sunderland corner, and David Smyth's ball into space causing confusion. Stephy Mavididi ghosted onto it, crossing for Keinan Davis to double his tally with a shot on the volley. 

Preston could have added a third soon after the break, with chances for both Browne and debutant Nicky Hughes, before Sunderland levelled on 52 when intricate passing in midfield was rewarded, with Mbakogu slipping the ball through for Chris Willock to steer a curling shot beyond Cantero. An awkward fall saw an enforced change for Preston on 70, with Stephy Mavididi seeming to hurt his hand on landing and having to be replaced by Josh Windass, but neither side had enough to force a winner - Mbakogu's speculative effort from distance flying wide on 84, before Marnick Vermilj's injury-time shot drew a smart save from Davies.

Sunderland; Davies, Naughton (Evans 70), McNair, Kabasele, James (Garbutt 76), Clayton, Watmore, King, Mowatt (Cattermole 63), Willock, Mbakogu

Unused; Pope, Martin, Egan, Gooch

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes (Crowley 73), Davis, Mavididi (Windass 73)

Unused; Huntingdon, Hudson, Pringle, Toffolo, Emnes

Referee; M Jones - Attendance; 34,033

A third successive draw gave mixed reactions for the Preston management team - with 30 league games now played, Preston sat on 32 points, four above the relegation zone but still closer than Fairway would have liked to danger.

With Stephy Mavididi suffering from no ill-effects after the game that a paracetamol wouldn't cure, Sunday saw two departures from Deepdale, with Matthew Knox returning north of the border by mutual consent to Rangers following a rather unsuccessful loan spell, and young defender Marvin Buchanan sent out on loan for the rest of the season to North Ferriby of the National League North. For fellow defender Will Tuck the news would be slightly better, as Preston rejected an approach from Leyton Orient to extend his loan deal, Fairway feeling that the young defender was now worthy of consideration of a place in his squad.

Training would be approached enthusiastically by everyone in the camp, with the big FA Cup game against Chelsea coming up on Saturday. Mavididi and Dan Crowley , who had been suffering from a cold, were no longer doubts by the middle of the week, but backup goalkeeper Matthew Hudson would be ruled out - permanently - with Fairway agreeing an initial £150,000 fee to sell the 22 year old to West Bromwich Albion . Hudson had come through the Deepdale ranks, but only made six appearances in as many years at the club, and Fairway considered the fee, especially with a sell-on, to be a good one. For the Chelsea game - a second late kick-off in succession due to the demands of TV - Ross Laidlaw would come onto the bench - and would be the only change - but scouting reports - and not just for goalkeepers - would need to be scoured over the weekend, with transfer deadline day approaching on Monday.

[Panpardus]

Always enjoy reading your story's!

 

[displaced_seagull]

10 hours ago, Panpardus said:

Always enjoy reading your story's!

 

Thanks, must admit I'm enjoying this one

[displaced_seagull]

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 30th January 2021

Chelsea 4 - Preston North End 0

Two goals in each half saw Chelsea ease through to the fifth round of the FA Cup, proving far too strong for Championship strugglers Preston North End. The Blues were in control throughout - Ander Cantero flapping at Marcos Alonso's corner on 10, only for Tom Clarke to hook the ball away, whilst Goncalo Guedes hammered into the side netting on 16. Four minutes later the Portugese winger was tripped on the edge of the box, and Marcos Alonso opened the scoring with a free kick into the roof of the net. A free kick at the other end briefly caused concern two minutes later after Nemanja Matic went in the book for a trip on Keinan Davis, but Daniel Johnson fired wide, and on 31, Matic made amends, finding Jeremie Boga in the box who prodded the ball into the path of Andrei Ivan. Ivan headed over on 34 as Chelsea looked to put the game to bed early on, with Guedes also too high on 41.

Hopes of a second half revival for Preston were not high in the away end, but Preston did rally briefly at the start of the second period, Nicky Hughes and Alan Browne combining well for the latter to play in Marnick Vermilj, only for the Belgian's effort to be blocked by Marcus Alonso. After that it was mostly one way traffic - Chancel Mandanda, on his senior debut, causing problems with his pace and Matic only narrowly over with a header, before Chelsea would add a third on 72 thanks to a thumping header from Inigo Martinez from a Marcos Alonso corner. The tricky Mandanda was again instrumental, recieving a pass from Pedro and turning towards goal, only to be tripped, allowing Goncalo Guedes to convert from the spot. Preston will have better days - sub Marvin Emnes' header wide from Johnson's free kick on 87 the closest they came to a consolation - but after last season's much-criticised Third Round exit, Chelsea seem to be treating the grand old competition with the respect it deserves again.

Chelsea; Courtois, Lindelof, Christensen, Martinez, Alonso, Matic (Cuadrado 72), Sanches, Ivan (Radosavljevic 67), Mandanda, Guedes, Boga (Pedro 51)

Unused; Robles, Mokono, Hammond, Chalobah

Preston; Cantero, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Davis (Emnes 71), Mavididi

Unused; Huntingdon, Laidlaw, Pringle, Windass, Toffolo

Referee; J Moss - Attendance; 33,199

Whilst disappointing, the defeat was not at all unexpected, and Fairway was pleased to hear after the game from Antonio Conte that his side had impressed the Italian with their range of passing. Before the squad boarded the coach for the long journey back to Preston, Marvin Emnes asked for a quiet word. The Dutchman, out of contract at the end of the season, put a proposal to Fairway for an extended contract - but on significantly lower wages. Without an agent, Emnes preferred to deal with his own future, and after some impromptu negotiations, Fairway was able to offer an additional year - with the promise of a second after a set number of league games in 2021/22 - in return for a significant reduction in wages.

Whilst Emnes pondered, Sunday would be a day off for the players, with Fairway instead working with Ian Miller on transfer targets. With Matthew Knox and Gavin Caton having left the club earlier in the month, priority would be a striker - and one who offered something a little different to the pacey Mavididi and Davis . Fairway would also be in the market for another defender, to replace the MLS-bound Huntingdon , and, should his budget allow, a goalkeeper, with Ander Cantero playing hardball on a new contract and the Spaniard a free agent at the end of the season.

His first move on Monday morning was to reject loan offers for Will Tuck , a player who could potentially fill one of those gaps himself. It was gearing up for an interesting day, and by breakfast, Sky Sports News had already revealed a £2 million move for defender Dominic Iorfa from Leicester City to tomorrow's opponents, Burnley . The first of the days big moves though would come at 11, with Newcastle United spending £5 million on Swiss midfielder Denis Zakaria and Leicester £4 million on Carlos Soler from Valencia . The Deepdale press conference suite had not yet been troubled, with Fairway telling a local journalist that he would only be making a move should the deal be right for all parties.

Whilst Newcastle continued to spend, adding Romanian goalkeeper Ionut Radu from Turkish outfit Konyaspor , for Preston the news was not so good. Fairway found his offers for three forwards rebuffed, and a change in strategy was needed. A quick meeting between manager and Chairman - and some superb flight-finding by the ever efficient Hayley - saw Andy Lamb board a plane northwards to talk to one target whilst Fairway remained at base. By late afternoon, the gamble had paid off, as Norwich City accepted an offer of £275,000 for Cameron Dawson , a 25 year old Goalkeeper who the Canaries had signed from AFC Wimbledon for more than double that amount, but who had struggled to oust club legend Declan Rudd . 

With Dawson's agent seeming to take advantage of the Chairman's absence, personal terms took some agreeing, but, by 8pm, with just three hours of the transfer window remaining, Dawson had signed, and with 30 minutes left, so had Brian Bell , a 20 year old Scottish central defender from Partick Thistle . Fairway had earmarked Bell as a target early in the window, but he then required a minor operation to repair a double hernia, putting a spanner in the works. After debate between manager, chairman and medical staff, Fairway won the day, and got permission for the move despite the inevitable failure of Bell's medical - the initial fee of £450,000 taking Preston's spending for the season to the £2 million mark.

The late night spending spree took Fairway over his wage budget, although the new contract for Marvin Emnes , when signed, would help to bring it back down, and the imminent departure of Paul Huntingdon had also been factored into consideration, meaning Lamb was content with the figures. Chairman and Manager both appeared at the Tuesday morning press conference which doubled as a preview to the evening's home game against local rivals - and, following the dismissal of Mauricio Pochettino, currently managerless Burnley - where Dawson would make his debut - with Will Tuck also preferred on the bench to Paul Huntingdon.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 2nd February 2021

Preston North End 0 - Burnley 0

A feisty local derby on a bitterly cold evening at Deepdale saw Preston held to their fourth league draw in succession. A quiet start saw Keinan Davis shoot wide on 5, before Nicky Hughes would also test Tom Heaton from distance two minutes later. The first of the games seven yellow cards came on 18, for Preston's Daniel Johnson, although Jake Bidwell fired the free kick over the top. Both sides had chances throughout the first period, with Davis and Stephy Mavididi both close for the hosts, and debutant goalkeeper Cameron Dawson holding well from Burnley's Andre Gray. 

Although there was plenty of action, the game was short on genuine chances - both sides seemingly lacking a killer ball, with both Alan Browne for Preston and the busy Gray for Burnley choosing to go alone, only to be denied by the respective goalkeepers. Dawson did become the busier of the two as the second half progressed, making a smart stop to deny Leon Ball's volley on 67, whilst at the other end, Preston's best chance of the game saw fine work from the industrious Hughes almost rewarded, only for sub Marvin Emnes to head straight at Heaton. For the visitors, the one that got away came on 82 - Richard Tipple's superb cross from a short corner routine headed just over by £12.25 million man Shane Duffy, who is still without a league goal in over five seasons. Goalscoring remains a problem for a Preston side who have now recorded a blank in three of the last five, but for Burnley, the recent slump will need to be addressed quickly by the incoming manager for the Clarets to have any chance of salvaging their playoff ambitions

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson (Crowley 73), Hughes, Davis (Emnes 61), Mavididi

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Pringle, Windass, Toffolo

Burnley; Heaton, Paterson, Duffy, Mee, Bidwell, Ball (Leko 67), Morris (Kasami 79), Osborn, Tipple, Rhodes, Gray (George 67)

Unused; McCarthy, Mawson, Oxford, Arfield

Referee; D Bond  - Attendance; 22,862

Whilst Marvin Emnes put pen to paper on an extended deal on Wednesday morning, down the road, ex-Germany striker Carsten Jancker was doing the same, as the former European Cup winner became Burnley manager in a rather surprising appointment. 

At the Springfields training complex meanwhile, extra shooting training was in order, with Fairway keen to see his side improve their fortunes in front of goal. He toyed with his options as the matter of team selection for Saturday's trip to Brentford came to the fore - eventually deciding to start with Marvin Emnes , replacing Stephy Mavididi up front, with the remainder of the squad unchanged.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 6th February 2021

Brentford 1 - Preston North End 1

Draw specialists Preston held Brentford at Lionel Road, but both sides will be unhappy not to have come away with all three points. Keinan Davis shot over on 12 as Preston broke quickly, before David Raya tipped Marvin Emnes' around the upright. Brentford took their time to get into the game, with Cauley Woodrow heading wide on 33, but soon found themselves behind, when Preston worked themselves into a good position with crisp, accurate passing, leading to Marnick Vermilj pulling the ball square for Nicky Hughes to shoot home from the edge of the area. In control and ahead, Preston would then miss two good chances to double their lead, with first Davis and then Emnes off target before the interval.  

Shortly after the break Brentford introduced their £2.2 Million signing from the visitors, Ben Pearson, and quickly improved, with the midfielder carving out an opportunity within 90 seconds of coming on, finding Maxime Colin, who sent in a low cross with Cameron Dawson did well to push wide. Brentford upped their game, and Scott Sinclair shot inches over on the hour, whilst Dawson's fine stop denied Cauley Woodrow seven minutes later. The equaliser eventually came fifteen minutes from time - Kyle Walker-Peters' cross evading the head of Tom Clarke, but nodded home by Cauley Woodrow , who stooped to reach the cross, for his first goal in Brentford colours. After Preston's wasteful finishing at the end of the first half, now it was Brentford's time to finish poorly - their best opportunity falling to Scott Hogan, who crashed against the bar on 83. Though Hogan's was the best chance to win it, Raya nearly cost his side the points in injury time, parrying Nicky Hughes' free kick, but, fortunately for Brentford, recovering to grab the loose ball just before Stephy Mavididi reached it. Both sides will need to up their game if they are to improve their recent fortunes.

Brentford; Raya, Colin (Roberts 61), Konsa, Stephens, Walker-Peters, Allione, Macleod (Pearson 51), Woods, Sinclair, Woodrow, Smith (Hogan 61)

Unused; Nicholls, Dunk, Vatajelu, Sio

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham (Toffolo 80), Browne, Johnson (Windass 80), Hughes, Davis (Mavididi 68), Emnes

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Pringle, Crowley

Referee; T Robinson - Attendance; 11,334

The draw sent Preston up to 19th, but watching the highlights back late at night, Fairway became even more acutely aware of his team's failings. The gap between Preston and 18th placed Brentford was three points, whilst the gap between themselves and the relegation zone remained at four. Fairway could only hope his failure to add another striker in January would not prove costly.

It was still playing on his mind on Tuesday, and he briefly considered looking at the free transfer market, only to find that Ian Miller was one step ahead. The two men pondered the names but after much searching, spread across three days after training, had only found one they could both agree merited a further look, and on Friday morning, sent an offer to his agent. What they were also both clear on though, was that there would be no quick fix - if Preston North End were to be moulded into the side, and playing at the level, that Stuart Fairway wanted, it would take time - and at least one summer of transfer activity. They also both knew that falling back into the relegation zone - and staying there - would likely see Fairway not get that opportunity. It would be a nervy end to the season, and, Fairway remembered, the last one of Ian Miller's career. He resolved not to let his assistant bow out on such a low.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 13th February 2021

Preston North End 1 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 1

Dogged determination saved a draw for Preston against a Wolves side who created plenty but failed to take their chances at Deepdale. After an early flurry from the hosts, when Scott Bain saved well from Keinan Davis and David Smyth, Wolves began to dominate proceedings, with Ivan Cavaleiro standing up a fine cross which Johnny Burn managed to head away, before first Jón Daði Böðvarsson shot wide, and then Ola John headed straight at Cameron Dawson. The goalkeeper has certainly improved Preston's communication at the back, but could do little about the 25th minute opener, as Jón Daði Böðvarsson met John Brayford's cross with a bullet header from close range. Wolves soon had a chance to double their lead on 31, when Ivan Cavaleiro crossed for Bright Enobakhare to head wide, so it was somewhat against the run of play when, on 37, Greg Cunningham's cross was blocked, earning a corner for the hosts. Alan Browne sent the ball into the box, and after some penalty box pinball, Keinan Davis poked the ball into the path of Nicky Hughes , who lashed home from the angle to level the scores. 

Wolves began the second half strongly, with David Davis close on three occasions in the early stages, whilst at the other end, a rare Preston opportunity was ballooned over by Marvin Emnes when well placed. Wolves still looked the more likely though, with sub Junior Stanislaus' fine run deserving a better finish on 67, and another long-range effort from Wolves' Davis sailing wide on 70. Sam West's free kick would represent their last chance - hit straight at Dawson with the minutes ticking away. For Preston, the run of draws now stretches to five consecutive league games, whilst playoff chasing Wolves will hope their failure to kill off opposition does not continue for the same length of time.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Smyth, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham (Toffolo 66), Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Davis (Windass 84), Emnes (Mavididi 66)

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Pringle, Crowley

Wolves; Bain, Brayford (Lustig 84), West, Saiss, Hause, Price, Davis (Jokic 78), Ivan Cavaleiro, Enobakhare, John (Stanislas 61), Böðvarsson

Unused; Gillespie, Joáo, Graham, Korhut

Referee; M Atkinson - Attendance; 14,769

Yet another draw saw another bout of mixed emotions in training - Preston were now back to 20th in the table, but five points clear of the drop zone, with a midweek game against Queens Park Rangers and an important game ahead on Saturday against one of those sides below North End in the table, Bolton Wanderers . 

Fairway had already decided, before Saturday's game, that he would hand a final start to Paul Huntingdon , who would be jetting off to the States on Wednesday to link up with D.C United ahead of the new MLS Season. Huntingdon would replace David Smyth , who was already Fairway's choice to miss out once new signing Brian Bell had fully recovered from his Hernia repair surgery. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 16th February 2021

Preston North End 2 - Queens Park Rangers 2

Preston's veteran defender Paul Huntingdon signed off with a point after 259 games at Deepdale ahead of his move to the MLS later this week, but this was no quiet farewell. After Huntingdon was afforded a guard of honour by his teammates and the opposition, Preston shot out of the blocks, and within a minute of kickoff created the first chance of the game, with Nicky Hughes and Daniel Johnson combining well in midfield, but Marvin Emnes wasteful from strike partner Keinan Davis' knock-down. Preston continued their early pressure, and after two shots had gone over the top, Daniel Johnson found his range in the ninth minute with a 30-yard strike that took a slight deflection to beat Alex Smithies. Preston carved out the opportunities to double their lead, only to be let down by the final ball, but after Chuba Akpom had drawn a fine save from Cameron Dawson, Will Keane tapped home from Paul Dummett's square ball to draw the visitors level on 24. The real moment of controversy though game eight minutes later, when a second yellow card was shown to Alan Browne, just four minutes after his first, for a trip on goalscorer Keane. From looking the side on the front foot, now Preston would have to hold out to regroup until half time, which they just about managed, despite chances for Sulley Kaikai and Will Keane.

Preston retreated into their shells a little after the break, perhaps expecting an onslaught, but it would not be until the hour mark when QPR troubled Cameron Dawson, with Akpom drawing a save. Six minutes later though the visitors would be ahead - Josh Cullen seizing a loose pass in midfield,  and playing the ball right to Jordan McPhee. The fullback found Izzy Brown, who played a neat one-two, then crossed for Chupa Apkom to fire home on the half volley. Despite being a goal behind and down to ten men, Preston recovered quickly - Greg Cunningham's cross headed away by Tyler Garrett almost straight from the restart, whilst Stephy Mavididi tested 'keeper Smithies. On 73, they would get their reward - Nicky Hughes, growing in confidence at this level by the game, found Johnson, who played in Stephy Mavididi . A great pass from the youngster teed up strike partner Josh Windass, who unselfishly returned the favour, threading the ball back through for Mavididi to fire past Smithies with a shot that struck the inside of the post on it's way into the net. With both sides tiring there were still chances - McPhee's swirling cross pushed over by Dawson, before Mavididi shot wide when well placed. The biggest cheer of the final ten minutes however came from the Preston support, when Tom Clarke was replaced by youngster Will Tuck - allowing Paul Huntingdon - a fitting farewell, as he saw out the last knockings as captain.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c) (Tuck 80), Huntingdon, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Davis (Mavididi 62), Emnes (Windass 67)

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Pringle, Crowley

QPR; Smithies, McGhee, Pratley, Dummett (Lynch 74), Garrett, Brown (Harper 76), Stewart, Luongo (Cullen 56), Kaikai, Akpom, Keane

Unused; Rees, Onuoha, Balbi, José

Referee; L Probert - Attendance; 11,379

After bidding Paul Huntingdon a fond farewell on Wednesday morning, Fairway held a team meeting at the suggestion of Ian Miller . Whilst recent results had been OK, he told his players, the long undefeated - albeit drawn - run gave them a good foundation to push on. The response was, to a man, excellent, and whilst Fairway didn't think his speech was overly inspiring, the players certainly seemed to take it that way, with an extra zip noticed in training for the remainder of the week. For Gary White there would also be extra enthusiasm, after the Brighton & Hove Albion manager departed to take the post at Premier League Swansea City . Fairway briefly regretted his promise to Lamb not to apply for other jobs, with his boyhood club seeking a new manager, but put such thoughts to one side with better news on the transfer front.

By Friday, ahead of Saturday's trip to Bolton Wanderers , there was a new face amongst them, as trialist Jóan Símun Edmundsson arrived for three weeks in a bid to earn a contract. Fairway was immediately impressed by the Faeroe Islands international, who showed great awareness and technical ability, adept with either foot, although perhaps lacked a little in the way of upper body strength. His international record for one of Europe's weakest nations also stood out - 73 caps, 11 goals, and his recent pedigree, coming off the back of a six year spell in Denmark's competitive Superliga, also shone through. Whilst Edmundsson would not be available for Saturday, Fairway would decide to shake things up - Brian Bell , who resumed full training on Thursday, called onto the bench - and Will Tuck handed a first start at the back. In midfield, things were a little less clear cut, but, after consultation with his coaches, Fairway chose Ben Pringle in the deeper role to replace the suspended Alan Browne , and up front, his midweek goal earned Stephy Mavididi a recall at the expense of Keinan Davis.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 20th February 2021

Bolton Wanderers 1 - Preston North End 2

A cautious start from both sides in a true relegation six-pointer exploded into life in the 23rd minute when Preston North End put together a fine passing move after Greg Cunningham had won possession deep in his own half. Cunningham surged forward, before laying the ball inside to Ben Pringle, and, after neat interplay between the two Preston forwards on the edge of the box, Marvin Emnes poked the ball through for Stephy Mavididi to open the scoring with a powerful effort. Bolton should have responded before half time - Rory Donnelly planting a free header wide on 32, before Johnny Apsden's drive was tipped over by Cameron Dawson. 

Preston held their lead into the interval however, and shortly after, saw a good chance of their own - Emnes drawing a fine save from Michael Ingram, before young Will Tuck's volley was blocked on the line by Frank Mulhern. Tuck would play his part in Preston's second - on 72, heading the ball clear to Mavididi, who broke quickly as Preston moved the ball upfield. After receiving the ball back from Cunningham, Mavididi crossed from deep, and Dan Crowley rifled a deflected effort into the roof of the net. Well behind on the possession statistics, Preston played their game to perfection, content to allow Bolton the ball in the deep, but snapping into their tackles in midfield, although few goalkeepers in the world would have been able to do anything about what would prove to be Bolton's consolation, when Frank Mulhern struck from 25 yards into the top corner. The goal looked, for a moment, as if it might inspire a late comeback - Dawson saving well from Max Lowe two minutes from time - but Preston held on to secure what could be three very important points in the battle to stay up.

Bolton; Ingram, Dumminghan, Osede, Jones, Lowe, Evans, Spearing, Aspden, Mendez-Laing, O'Dowda, Donnelly

Unused; Alnwick, Wheater, Di Molfetta, McCullough

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Tuck (Bell 72), Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Pringle (Crowley 65), Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Emnes

Unused; Cantero, Windass, Davis, Smyth, Thomas

Referee; K Friend - Attendance; 19,904

A delighted Andy Lamb informed Fairway after the game that the victory staved off any fears of a repeat of Preston's longest run without a win dating back to the 1920's, with both Chairman and manager very pleased that the three points would also see Preston back up to the relative safety of 18th in the table. A history lesson would not be the only item on the Chairman's agenda however, with Fairway happy to accept the sale of a transfer clause for Argentinean fullback Federico Vega , who had left the club in the summer, earning close to £60,000, after hearing that the player was out of favour at Cádiz . 

Unfortunately it would prove to be the only positive news of a frustrating week, as bueracracy prevented a move for trialist Jóan Símun Edmundsson , when enquiries at the Home Office revealed the Faeroese striker would not be eligible for a work permit. With little point in continuing the trial, which had been progressing well, both parties agreed to seperate, with Edmundsson returning home without a contract.  

Fairway would also have some problems when it came to team selection, with Alan Browne back after suspension, and a decision to made at the back with Brian Bell now fit. Whilst Fairway was wary of changing a winning team, he did bring Browne back into the starting lineup at the expense of Pringle, but Bell would have to remain satisfied with a place on the bench, after Will Tuck had done enough on his debut to retain his spot.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 20th February 2021

Bolton Wanderers 1 - Preston North End 2

A cautious start from both sides in a true relegation six-pointer exploded into life in the 23rd minute when Preston North End put together a fine passing move after Greg Cunningham had won possession deep in his own half. Cunningham surged forward, before laying the ball inside to Ben Pringle, and, after neat interplay between the two Preston forwards on the edge of the box, Marvin Emnes poked the ball through for Stephy Mavididi to open the scoring with a powerful effort. Bolton should have responded before half time - Rory Donnelly planting a free header wide on 32, before Johnny Apsden's drive was tipped over by Cameron Dawson. 

Preston held their lead into the interval however, and shortly after, saw a good chance of their own - Emnes drawing a fine save from Michael Ingram, before young Will Tuck's volley was blocked on the line by Frank Mulhern. Tuck would play his part in Preston's second - on 72, heading the ball clear to Mavididi, who broke quickly as Preston moved the ball upfield. After receiving the ball back from Cunningham, Mavididi crossed from deep, and Dan Crowley rifled a deflected effort into the roof of the net. Well behind on the possession statistics, Preston played their game to perfection, content to allow Bolton the ball in the deep, but snapping into their tackles in midfield, although few goalkeepers in the world would have been able to do anything about what would prove to be Bolton's consolation, when Frank Mulhern struck from 25 yards into the top corner. The goal looked, for a moment, as if it might inspire a late comeback - Dawson saving well from Max Lowe two minutes from time - but Preston held on to secure what could be three very important points in the battle to stay up.

Bolton; Ingram, Dumminghan, Osede, Jones, Lowe, Evans, Spearing, Aspden, Mendez-Laing, O'Dowda, Donnelly

Unused; Alnwick, Wheater, Di Molfetta, McCullough

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Tuck (Bell 72), Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Pringle (Crowley 65), Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Emnes

Unused; Cantero, Windass, Davis, Smyth, Thomas

Referee; K Friend - Attendance; 19,904

A delighted Andy Lamb informed Fairway after the game that the victory staved off any fears of a repeat of Preston's longest run without a win dating back to the 1920's, with both Chairman and manager very pleased that the three points would also see Preston back up to the relative safety of 18th in the table. A history lesson would not be the only item on the Chairman's agenda however, with Fairway happy to accept the sale of a transfer clause for Argentinean fullback Federico Vega , who had left the club in the summer, earning close to £60,000, after hearing that the player was out of favour at Cádiz . 

Unfortunately it would prove to be the only positive news of a frustrating week, as bureaucracy prevented a move for trialist Jóan Símun Edmundsson , when enquiries at the Home Office revealed the Faeroese striker would not be eligible for a work permit. With little point in continuing the trial, which had been progressing well, both parties agreed to separate, with Edmundsson returning home without a contract.  

Fairway would also have some problems when it came to team selection, with Alan Browne back after suspension, and a decision to made at the back with Brian Bell now fit. Whilst Fairway was wary of changing a winning team, he did bring Browne back into the starting lineup at the expense of Pringle, but Bell would have to remain satisfied with a place on the bench, after Will Tuck had done enough on his debut to retain his spot.

[sherm]

Really enjoying this d_s. Love the depth of the match reports and the relationship between manager and chairman

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On 05/08/2017 at 09:58, sherm said:

Really enjoying this d_s. Love the depth of the match reports and the relationship between manager and chairman

Many thanks sherm, much appreciated

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 27th February 2021

Preston North End 1 - Fulham 0

Fulham's waning playoff ambitions took another blow on Saturday afternoon as they were edged out by a resolute Preston North End. The visitors started the brighter, with Sam Field shooting just wide after five minutes, before Yoshinoubu Takayanagi headed over when it would have been easier to score after Ryan Bennett had flicked on from a corner. Aaron Lennon would then shoot across goal on 16, and it looked as if it would prove only a matter of time for Fulham to take the lead. Preston though fired a warning shot of their own - Marvin Emnes' curling a shot against the post on 22, before midway though the first half, Preston took the lead - Alan Browne's pass finding Emnes, who laid the ball off for Daniel Johnson to score with a powerful effort into the roof of the net on 36.

Preston began the second half on the front foot as a result, with first Emnes and then Stephy Mavididi drawing saves, whilst Fulham's flurry of substitutions did little to improve their composure - ex-Preston man Eoin Doyle, recalled against his former side, failing to trouble Cameron Dawson with a header from close range. They would put the ball in the net on 73, Grant Ward's cute pass teeing up Hakan Aksoy, only for the young striker to move a fraction too soon, with referee Attwell ruling it out after consultation with his assistant. Fulham finished strongly, with Doyle close on two further occasions and Sam Field firing wide, but there would be no happy ending for the West London club on a day which - as has so often been the case for Preston this season - belonged to their enigmatic Jamacian midfielder.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Tuck (Bell 65), Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Emnes (Windass 74)

Unused; Cantero, Pringle, Crowley, Davis, Smyth

Fulham; Button, Randall, Bennett, Harness, Mbabu, Jozabed (Wood 53), Field, Lennon, Takayanagi (Ward 45), di Santo (Doyle 53), Hakan Aksoy

Unused; O'Donnell, Rybus, Christensen, De Laet

Referee; S Attwell - Attendance; 14,556

As February ticked into March, Fairway met up with Andy Lamb and Steve Osman for the monthly board meeting on Monday morning. Lamb declared that the board were still very pleased with Fairway's work since his arrival, which the manager took as a sign to push for further investment in the youth coaching scheme. Here, Lamb deferred to Osman, who agreed almost instantly - citing the recent elevation of James Thomas and Will Tuck to the first team squad as proof that development from within would be vital for the club's future prospects.

With that out of the way, Fairway returned to Springfields where he had a few meetings planned after training. Whilst the first went well, the other two did not. Dan Crowley was happy to not just agree to talks, but agree to terms on an extended contract, but neither Ander Cantero or club captain Tom Clarke wanted to discuss their futures until Preston's Championship status was secure.

Crowley signed his new deal on Wednesday morning, which would prove to be a busy day at the training complex, with no less than 17 new arrivals. 16 of them were well known to the club as the best of this season's Under 16 side stepped up for their final assessments, where over the course of the month decisions would be made as to who would be continuing their career at the club with a youth contract. Cream of the crop looked to be goalkeeper Reece Mistry , still a few months shy of his 16th birthday, but with a cool head on young shoulders. Elsewhere, Fairway also found himself impressed with 15 year old right wingback Nigel Cartwright and Dave Byrne , a versatile defender who had captained the side in the past.

The final arrival was a rather unusual one, with Deldy Ngoyi , a Congo international central midfielder, arriving for a fortnight in order for Preston to assess his chances. Fairway had initially been dubious after the work permit issues with Jóan Símun Edmundsson , but Ngoyi's agent, a rotund, easy-going chap, assured the manager there would be no such issues, as Ngoyi had played in 'most' of Congo's recent games for the side ranked 28th in the world. As for the player himself, Fairway could see the 23 year old had pedigree - quick off the mark with a great first touch, he had scored 5 and created 15 in his final season for domestic champions Diables Noirs before deciding to try his luck in Europe at the expiration of his contract. The agent claimed interest from Denmark, but Fairway knew, despite 'Brexit', the lure of English football was still a strong one.

For both Ngoyi and the youth team hopefuls though a first team debut was a long way off , and Fairway made just one change to the side for the trip to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday. Rovers sit third in the table, with Brian Bell likely to be busy in his first start, replacing Will Tuck , who dropped to the bench, ousting Harry Toffolo , ineligible to play against his parent club, with Ben Pringle also left out completely and James Thomas preferred amongst the substitutes.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 6th March 2021

Blackburn Rovers 2 - Preston North End 1

Blackburn Rovers cut the gap to just a point between themselves and second placed Brighton, but needed a late goal to break Preston hearts after failing to take plenty of chances. Against the formbook, it was Preston who began well, with an early chance saved by young Jamie Wilson, before Corey Jordan's unnecessary push on Marvin Emnes from what appeared an overhit free kick allowed Daniel Johnson to slot home the opening goal from the penalty spot. An almost immediate response saw Tyler Roberts head over from Hope Apkan's cross, whilst Ross Osbourne drew a acrobatic save from Cameron Dawson on 14. Blackburn continued to pressure, with Connor Wickham close, before Stephy Mavididi was denied by Wilson on 26. Preston continued to hold out, with Dawson's fine save from Connor Wickham's volley, but in first half stoppage time, they would draw level, when Lee Myung-Joo combined well with skipper Casey Palmer, who found Ross Osbourne just inside the area to fire beyond a disappointed Dawson at his near post.

After Johnson's early chance was saved, Dawson was soon called into action again, holding well from Akpan. He would have an even bigger task on 56, when Marnick Vermilj handled in the area, but was equal to Connor Wickham's weak effort from 12 yards. Whilst frustration was beginning to become evident in Blackburn's body language, they were able to keep their heads and keep control, with a left-footed drive from Roberts tipped wide by Dawson. As time ticked away Nicky Hughes, in a rare foray forward for Preston, fired just over, whilst Johnson's ambitious effort was tipped over. Finally, on 78 Blackburn would score what proved to be the decisive goal, breaking quickly with Roberts combining well with ex-Preston winger Callum Robinson, who teed up Joe Mason from the edge of the box. Mason struck cleanly, and although his effort needed the assistance of the upright, it was a goal worthy of winning any game. Kasey Palmer could have added a third late on as Preston had no more to offer, but whilst it was not as comprehensive as they may have liked, the three points nonetheless stayed at Ewood Park.

Blackburn; Wilson, Kane, Lachman, Jordan, Taylor, Lee Myung-Joo, Akpan (Hogg 62), Osborne (Mason 45), Palmer, Wickham (Robinson 68), Roberts

Unused; Reeves, Fredericks, Connelly, Malone

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Emnes (Windass 70)

Unused; Cantero, Pringle, Crowley, Davis, Smyth

Referee; S Hooper - Attendance; 26,501

Whilst the defeat brought an end to Preston's lengthy unbeaten run, Fairway was not too downhearted with his side remaining 18th in the table. The Under 18's were in action on Sunday with Fairway an interested spectator, as they took on the U16 youth candidates, afforded the luxury of playing at Deepdale. The - new - youngsters took to the ground pleasingly well, winning 2-0, with goals from midfielder Alan McManus and forward Paul Jeffrey the difference in a game more about development than the final result.

With a midweek game, Fairway considered changes for the visit of Middlesbrough , but eventually came down in favour of naming an unchanged side. He sincerely hoped that, with nine games remaining, his side could return to winning ways quickly. With the way things stood, Preston, on 42 points, were safe - but with the gap between themselves and the drop zone still just five points, despite the two wins, there was no room for complacency - and a home game against the 14th placed side was, on paper at least, an ideal opportunity to return to form.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 9th March 2021

Preston North End 0 - Middlesbrough 2

Middlesbrough took their time to overcome a misfiring Preston who again failed to consistently create good chances at Deepdale. Both sides had chances in an even first half, with Marnick Vermelj shooting straight at Neto on 15, before Gastón Ramírez fired a free kick over two minutes later. By far the best chance though fell to the visitors on 25, when Patrick Bamford caught Johnny Burn in posession, and stormed forward, crossing for Gustav Engvall, who somehow fluffed the punchline, scuffing a poor shot against the post, where Brian Bell hooked to safety. After that letoff, Preston came close twice themselves, with Neto saving from Stephy Mavididi before Greg Cunningham blazed over.

Evenly poised at the break, there was a sense that the first goal of the game would be crucial, and so it proved when, five minutes after the interval, Engvall made up for his earlier howler with a cushioned header from Ramírez' corner into the path of George Thorne who made no mistake from close range. Now 'Boro looked the more likely, and Thorne was close to a second on 55 before Adam Forshaw volleyed over nine minutes later. Patrick Bamford saw an effort deflected onto the post on 69 as Preston struggled to get out of their own half. A double substitution did improve matters for the hosts on 71, with sub Keinan Davis crossing for Mavididi to head over, although there were some appeals from the home support for a penalty for a push in the box. Mavididi went one better on 76, denied by the post after Davis again slipped him through, before the visitors sealed the victory on 81, with a sub of their own, Willyan netting from the edge of the box with a deflected strike. The Brazilian midfielder could have had a third - an audacious lob just about held by Cameron Dawson in injury time, but it would have been harsh on Preston, who already face a difficult looking run of games, with the next four all against sides in the top ten. 

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne (Thomas 71), Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Emnes (Davis 71)

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Crowley, Smyth, Windass

Middlesbrough; Neto, Lowton (Christie 77), Gomez, Quinn, Matumona, Forshaw (c), Ramírez, Thorne, Gomes, Engvall (Willyan 72), Bamford

Unused; Walton, Marshall, Tabanou, Bernardo, Chijioke

Referee; A Marriner - Attendance; 13,795

Fairway was not impressed with the performance, and immediately pencilled in changes for Saturday, with Marvin Emnes facing the axe after a string of below-par performances. Training proved a bit of a hard slog throughout the week, with the manager concerned that his players' collective morale seemed to be dropping. What Fairway really wanted to do was get on with the business of revitalising his squad, but with the league still having over a month - and eight important games - still to play, it would purely be preliminary planning at this stage.

Those plans did not include trialist Deldy Ngoyi , who Fairway felt had talent but did not offer anything truly different to the sort of players he already possessed. Whilst disappointed, Ngoyi took the opportunity afforded to him by Preston to continue until the end of his trial spell, to get his fitness levels up whilst his agent worked on the Danish options still said to be circulating.

Whilst Ngoyi wouldn't be joining, Fairway did welcome one new arrival on Friday when as part of the agreed extra investment in youth, he was able to bring in Steve Bissix from Greenock Morton as a dedicated physio for the Under 18's. Bissix, 40, had been with Bristol Rovers for nearly 20 years, but took the opportunity to move to Scotland after losing his job in a management reshuffle. Keen to return south of the border, he was delighted when Fairway offered the opportunity, and jumped at the opportunity to work with the young players at the club.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 13th March 2021

Derby County 0 - Preston North End 4
 
A thoroughly wet and miserable afternoon at Pride Park saw Derby's playoff hopes take a hit as they were blown away by a magnificent performance from strugglers Preston. After the hosts had the better of the early exchanges with Craig Bryson and Julien Ngoy close from distance, Preston took the lead on 17 when tenacity paid off for the visitors - Alan Browne's corner initially cleared by Elliott Bennett, only for Daniel Johnson to collect and play the ball left to Greg Cunningham. Cunningham hit a first time cross into the box, and timing his run from deep to perfection, Keinan Davis met the ball on the half-volley with a firm, sidefooted effort which flew past Wayne Hennessey. Still Derby did not look too far off the pace, and after Bennett had struck the woodwork on 24, only a superb tackle from Brian Bell, virtually on the line, prevented Matej Vydra from levelling on 32. Three minutes later they would be punished - more good work on the left hand side again, with Johnson and Browne linking up well, teeing up Nicky Hughes who split the Derby defence, allowing Keinan Davis to run in on goal and fire home his second of the afternoon. 

Derby came out strongly after the break, with Vydra hooking wide after just 14 seconds of the restart before planting a free header into the stand on 55 from Joe Bryan's deep cross. Preston, by contrast, seemed content to control the game from deep, offering little in the way of attacking penetration until Marnick Vermilj drilled a shot in on goal on 59 that Hennessey did well to tip over. Substitutions - including the addition of the 18 goal Nouha Dicko - did little to help Derby, and on 68, Preston added their third, when Nicky Hughes powered home from the edge of the area after Browne's corner had only been cleared to the impressive Cunningham. Johnson struck the woodwork soon after, whilst on 82 Hennessey got down well to deny Bell, but in the 89th minute, victory for Preston was capped with the best goal of the game - a thunderbolt from just outside the area from Nicky Hughes after yet further good work from the Derby left wing back Cunningham. After the game it emerged that Leeds United manager Bob Bradley was in the stands to watch the Irishman - and on this performance, it is no surprise to see that he is a man in demand.

Derby; Hennessey, Fisher, Clark, Thomas (Fry 64), Chilwell, Bennett, Adeniran (Ince 64), Bryson, Bryan, Vydra, Ngoy (Dicko 59)

Unused; Lawloe, Weimann, Williams, Wildschut

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson (Thomas 86), Hughes, Mavididi (Windass 86), Davis

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Crowley, Smyth, Emnes

Referee; M Atkinson - Attendance; 28,795

Fairway was delighted with the response of his players, and the reward - Preston now nine points clear of the relegation zone with six to play. Whilst it still left points mathematically required to assure safety, the manager was pleased to see a bit of breathing space emerge, with the gap to 19th place now standing at four points. He was fully aware, however, that there had been false dawns before, and resolved not to let the victory go to his players heads over the week to come.

Sunday's big news saw Championship surprise package Oxford United suffer a blow with the loss of manager Harry Kewell , as the Aussie moved on to Brighton & Hove Albion , one of three sides with a realistic ambition of achieving automatic promotion. Fairway meanwhile, after a most welcome Sunday lunch out with the family, spent his afternoon pouring over scouting reports, with Leon Hunter and his team having been particularly busy. 

With the footballing week starting for Preston on such a high, it was perhaps inevitable that there would also be a low - and on Monday, as trialist Deldy Ngoyi departed, midfielder Dan Crowley sustained a knock in training that would rule him out for the week, making him a doubt for Saturday. There was though some interesting news - whilst Ngoyi, and before him, Edmundsson had failed to earn contracts at Deepdale, with the free agent window closing before the end of the month, agents were still keen to tout their clients to Fairway and Preston, and on Tuesday morning, Iran international Reza Shekari arrived for a fortnight to press his claims. The 22 year old was nominally an attacking midfielder, a position which Fairway had little need of in his current and well-versed system, but the evidence showed that he had a bit about him, and Fairway felt that he could potentially do a job either in the centre of the park or up front. 

Whilst Shekari missed out on a space in the Iran squad for the rather unappetising-sounding friendly away in Pyongyang against North Korea , Fairway was pleased to see that Greg Cunningham had earnt a recall to the Republic of Ireland squad for the opening World Cup Qualifiers against Serbia and Belgium , although his inclusion would not make the papers, who instead, perhaps understandably, chose to headline on Thursday with the surprise news from the England camp that, after 105 caps, Joe Hart had been dropped by Gareth Southgate, who instead would have to choose between Fraser Forster and Ben Garratt , with less than 10 caps between them, or the surprise inclusion of the uncapped 25 year old Joe Wildsmith of Sheffield Wednesday between the sticks for England's first qualifers on the road to China 2022 against Estonia and Hungary in Group 7.

In another, closer to home unexpected development, Fairway came in on Friday to find that Rangers had made an enquiry regarding 32-year old Ben Pringle . Pringle, aside from a few appearances off the bench, had found himself out of Fairway's plans for much of his time at the club, and, at the age of 32, was keen on the move for more first team football. After sitting down with the triumvirate of player, agent and Chairman, Andy Lamb proposed an increase to the initial bid from the Scottish giants of £475,000, instead asking for £650,000. Malky Mackay and company were not put off, and the midfielder was given leave to travel to Glasgow over the weekend to discuss personal terms on a deal which could not go through until the end of the season. His unavailability had little impact on Fairway's selection - Crowley as expected missing out on a spot on the bench through injury, with Harry Toffolo earning a recall to the matchday squad in the only change.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 20th March 2021

Preston North End 1 - Ipswich Town 0

When asked for a pre-game soundbite by a local reporter, Preston manager Stuart Fairway simply asked for more of the same - and whilst it wasn't quite the dominating performance of last week, North End were still able to come away with a victory in this final game before the international break. Both sides traded midfield ground in a first half of few chances under leaden Lancashire skies, with Matt Clough slightly unfortunate not to at least hit the target with a looping header on 13, and Daniel Johnson fizzing a shot just the wrong side of the post on 23. The best chance of the half fell to the hosts on 34 - Nicky Hughes finding Marnick Vermilj on the right, who swung in a pinpoint cross that Stephy Mavididi could only head against the crossbar and over.

Whilst Preston had shown sparks of life towards the end of the first half, the opening exchanges of the second were all Ipswich, with Johnny Burn reacting well to block Sam McQueen's goalbound volley on 48. It proved to be the wakeup call the hosts needed, and on 58 a typical thunderous drive from the edge of the box from the right boot of Daniel Johnson found the corner of the net, after Teddy Bishop's poorly directed header clear. Ipswich changed their formation and personnel in a bid to get back into the game, but aside from a Lewis Baker effort from range, did little to trouble Cameron Dawson, and it was only due to the fingertips of Bartosz Bialkowski that Mavididi was denied on 76. Ipswich continued to test Dawson from range - Ryan Kent close on 81, whilst sub Ben Morris' opportunistic effort a minute later sailed over having intercepted a loose Keinan Davis pass. The victory secure, Preston will head into a fortnight's break in good spirits - whilst, much like the old Court Two at Wimbledon, Deepdale is quickly gaining a reputation as a place where those chasing playoff positions fear to tread.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj (Smyth 85), Cunningham (Toffolo 18), Browne (Thomas 69), Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi, Davis

Unused; Tuck, Cantero, Windass, Emnes

Ipswich; Bialkowski, Emmanuel, Thorpe, Webster, Coker, Baker, Thompson (Bishop 51), Hughes, Reid, McQueen (Kent 51), Clough (Morris 58)

Unused; Hayes, Pierre, Grimmer, Rankin-Costello

Referee; C Pawson - Attendance; 14,172

 

 

Whilst a cut to the head had forced Greg Cunningham off early, Fairway was pleased to see that, a couple of stitches later, he would be fit to join up with the Ireland squad later in the week. It was the only slightly fly in the ointment of what had been a well-deserved victory, and with two weeks to go before Preston's next game, he would now be able to get on with some of the less pressing matters which were filling his in-tray.

Sunday morning saw Ben Pringle advise Fairway that he had agreed terms with Rangers , and would be leaving the club when the transfer window reopens in June. Whilst Pringle was on his way out, Fairway also had to break the news to Reza Shekari that there would be no contract offer. After much deliberation, and a preliminary chat about what sort of financial package the Iranian would want, a 3-2 vote in favour of not signing amongst the coaching staff sealed the decision, and whilst Shekari's talent was undoubted, Fairway agreed with Ian Miller that he would not fit Preston's system.

After the departures early in the week, there would be more mixed emotions on Thursday - whilst Daniel Johnson starred in a 4-1 victory for Jamaica against the USA , which leaves the US with serious work to do to reach China, Greg Cunningham did not have the best of evenings in Dublin, as Ireland went down 3-0 to Serbia . Back at base, Fairway was delighted to be able to hand one-year deals to six of the Under 16 squad who were now stepping up to Under 18 level - Goalkeeper Reece Mistry , Fullbacks Nigel Cartwright and Jonathan Mooney , Central Defender Dave Byrne , winger Andy Sykes and midfielder Alan McManus . All had been handed identical one-year contracts on £100 a week,  For the remaining ten, it would be the end of the line at Deepdale, although they would remain at the club until the end of their academy term in mid-April. 

Over the weekend, Preston added another dedicated U18 coach, with former Brighton and Southampton midfielder Dean Hammond joining Fairway's backroom staff on a three year deal. There would also be good news for England , with Ben Garratt getting the nod between the sticks as Gareth Southgate's side cruised to a 3-0 win over Estonia , with Demari Gray, Eric Dier and Jesse Lingard on target. There would be better news for Ireland too on Monday, with a 2-1 win, and Greg Cunningham claiming an assist to boot, against Belgium . England followed up on their fine start with a 2-0 win over Hungary in Budapest, with Marcus Rashford and Dele Alli scoring the goals in a match which Gareth Southgate's side dominated.

Thursday's monthly board meeting passed off without real incident, with Fairway keen to get back to Springfields for training ahead of Tuesday's trip to Oxford United . After a quiet weekend, with both Johnson and Cunningham returning with no ill-effects from International duty, The game would be a U's debut for the newly appointed Paul Dickov , and whilst he took an unchanged squad down to The Kassam Stadium, Fairway warned his side to expect a tough game, with Dickov no doubt keen to get things off to a good start. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Tuesday 6th April 2021

Oxford United 1 - Preston North End 1

Paul Dickov began his Oxford United reign with a point, but will be under no illusions about how hard a task it will be to keep the U's punching above their weight in a competitive division. Both sides carved out good opportunities in a frenetic opening spell, with Keinan Davis' shot held in the first minute before Curtis Nelson hooked over on 7. Oxford perhaps should have done better on 20 when Spencer Sands' cross was wastefully headed straight at Cameron Dawson by Kane Hemmings, but equally Stephy Mavididi finished poorly when sent through by Davis. Preston did take the lead on 29 - a nicely worked free kick seeing Daniel Johnson find Alan Browne, who poked the ball into the path of Keinan Davis to slot home from an acute angle. The equaliser came quickly, with John Lundstram intercepting a throw on 36 to find Hemmings, with Sands felled as he chased the ball into the channel. Whilst Joe Rothwell's free kick was partially cleared, Tom Clarke missed the interception as the ball was played back in, allowing Spencer Sands to score from Robert Craddock's cross.

With the score delicately poised at the interval, with a sense that the next goal would be decisive, it was little surprise when the second half did not play out with the same intensity of the first, with neither side wanting to risk too much and commit too many forward. Preston's best came through Mavididi on 61, losing out to Shay Facey just as he looked to pull the trigger, whilst Joe Rothwell head high and wide on 71. At full time a draw was just about what both sides deserved, although Dickov's faliure to start with a win will undoubtedly rankle with the famously competitive Scot.

Oxford; Smith, Facey, Nelson, Craddock, Riley, Godfrey (Buckley 68), Rothwell, Lundstram, Hall (Johnson 75), Sands (Walsh 45), Hemmings

Unused; Simpson, Dunkley, Maguire, Oakley-Boothe

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c) (Tuck 70), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi (Windass 70), Davis

Unused; Cantero, Smyth, Thomas, Toffolo, Emnes

Referee; L Mason - Attendance; 12,205

With results elsewhere giving Preston a ten point buffer zone between themselves and the relegation places, Fairway was now acutely aware that his side needed just six more points from the final five games to mathematically assure survival, and to achieve the first of his personal goals set when taking over at Deepdale. Portsmouth would though have to plan for life in the third tier, as a 3-3 draw at home to Birmingham would not be enough to keep them in with a fighting chance of staying up. 

The news meant that, although not certain, Fairway was content to try to open negotiations with several of his players who were coming up to the end of their contracts. First on the list would be 19 year old Adam Smith , a player who had not long returned from a loan spell at Eastleigh , but was highly rated by the coaching staff. Perhaps the only thing holding him back so far was his natural position - wide on the left. Fairway though felt that Smith could become a useful wingback, and asked Jason Cowan , who had seen success with similar players in the past, to take the lead on nurturing and moulding the teenager into someone who would more suit Preston's system. The negotiations with the player did not take too long, as he seemed desperate to stay, and Fairway felt confident that he had done enough to secure Smith's future. Looking at the senior squad, there were only two who required new deals - but neither Tom Clarke nor Ander Cantero had seemed too keen on sitting down for talks in the recent past. Clarke was still not too keen, preferring to wait until survival was guaranteed, but, after some differing opinions of the goalkeeper's value, Fairway eventually agreed terms with Cantero's agent - albeit after having to tell the Spaniard he was likely to continue to play second fiddle to Cameron Dawson going forward.

Adam Smith put pen to paper on Friday afternoon, rounding off training nicely ahead of the game against Leeds United . The Whites had been Fairway's first opponents when he took control at Preston, and he allowed himself a moment to ponder how far his side had come since then. There was still work to be done, of course, but, for perhaps the first time, the manager felt a genuine sense of satisfaction at the way things had gone. The past five months had been, at times, frustrating and infuriating - but they had also seen growth of both club and manager. He was still lost in his thoughts when Ian Miller knocked for the final chat about the team for Saturday - it wouldn't take long, with no changes for the third game in succession.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 10th April 2021

Preston North End 2 - Leeds United 0

Leeds United have been left hanging onto a playoff berth by the skin of their teeth after a disappointing defeat at Preston, who secured mathematical safety with all three points at Deepdale. The visitors, backed by a packed out away end, had the better of the early exchanges, with Kemar Roofe heading over from Edu Campabadal's cross on 5, and Eunan O'Kane wide three minutes later. Preston had to wait until the 25th minute for their first real chance, when Stephy Mavididi shot wide, but a tepid first half went by with neither 'keeper overly tested.  

It initially appeared more of the same would be the case after the interval - Cameron Dawson holding from O'Kane on 51 and Roofe blazing over on 62, before Nicky Hughes' half-volley from the edge of the area flew just past the posts at the other end. After a flurry of substitutions for both sides, Preston did take the lead on 78 - Stephy Mavididi , who had been quiet aside from his early chance, picking up a slide-rule pass from Nicky Hughes to slot in at the near post, despite furious appeals for offside from the visitors. Leeds pushed for a leveller - sub Samuele Lazzari shooting wide from the angle on 79, and Roofe denied by a flying Dawson save to tip the ball over the top three minutes later. Pushing up, Leeds left gaps at the back, and on 85 were nearly punished when Isaac Hayden's hurried clearance was collected by Harry Toffolo, who found youngster James Thomas to fire against the crossbar and over the top. After one let off, when another misplaced pass was collected in the deep, Preston did grab their second goal early in stoppage time - Alan Browne carrying the ball forward before finding the influential Hughes, and after a ball into the box Keinan Davis helped the ball on for Stephy Mavididi to prod past the despairing Sam Johnstone. Leeds looked toothless with the injured Sylvian Mirval only a spectator, but Preston will take great heart from another impressive performance against one of the division's leading sides.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham (Toffolo 80), Browne, Johnson (Thomas 72), Hughes, Mavididi, Davis

Unused; Cantero, Smyth, Thomas, Toffolo, Emnes

Leeds; Johnstone, Campabadal (Tavernier 74), Briancon, Hector, Fox (c), Kouyaté, Reed, O'Kane (Hayden 76), Dallas, Sancho (Lazzari 56), Roofe

Unused; Huffer, Frizzell, Bridcutt, Dobrovoljc

Referee; T Robinson - Attendance; 19,046

Combined with results elsewhere, the win gave Preston the points they needed to stay up - and for Daniel Johnson , it would prove to be a very profitable afternoon, with the midfielder picking up a £70,000 'survival bonus' on Monday morning. Fairway was also pleased that Ander Cantero had signed his new contract - but would be stunned by what was to follow.

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BBC Radio Lancashire - Lunchtime News

"Thanks Jane, and more travel in 30 minutes. Breaking sports news now as Preston North End manager Stuart Fairway has reacted furiously some news regarding one of his players. Let's go to Adam Jenkins who is at Deepdale now. What can you tell us Adam?

"Thanks Simon. Yes, I'm here at Deepdale where the news has just been broken by the club that goalkeeper Ander Cantero has signed a new contract - but cannot play!"

"Sounds confusing?"

"Well, Preston have announced that Cantero has not been given a new UK work permit for his new contract, so whilst he has signed a contract until 2023, he will not be able to play for Preston for the foreseeable future"

"So Preston will be paying a player who they cannot play?"

"That's right Simon - it looks like Ander Cantero, who was the first choice in goal until fairly recently remember, will not be featuring in the squad for the foreseeable future. Understandably, his manager Stuart Fairway is furious, and you can't imagine the club are too happy either".

"So who is to blame here?"

"Well, Preston are united on that front, they claim they were told by the Home Office that there wouldn't be a problem, as Cantero joined before the UK left the European Union, but it would appear they have been mistakenly informed. Preston have apparently been told they can appeal in 120 days time."

"What happens next, does he have to leave the country?"

"Well the club have said that he will not have to leave the country and has been told he can do voluntary work with the club's community programme, but  other than that it's uncertain to be honest Simon - the club are saying they will stand by the contract as they are obliged to do, and have no plans to see Cantero leave the club permanently, but I think we may see him being sent out on loan abroad in the summer to maintain match fitness. As the club said, he has been here for some time, but we understand that he is still over a year away from being eligible to apply for a British passport, should be want to."

"Thanks Adam, we'll come back to you if there are any further developments on this. To recap then, Preston goalkeeper Ander Cantero has a new contract, but cannot play for the club until he becomes eligible for a new work permit. We'll have more on this later, and we'll be straight back to Adam should there be any further statement. Now on the lunchtime news, just before we go to the weather, we'll take you back fifty years, here's Jefferson Airplane with White Rabbit . I wonder if Alice has any answers for Preston?"

If the manager was furious, the Chairman was apopleptic, working directly with Hayley and Cantero's agent to try and find a loophole in the regulations. Unfortunately for all concerned, they would be defeated, and it appeared that misinformation by a junior member of staff at the Home Office was no grounds for an appeal.

Cantero, to his credit, continued to train with gusto for the remainder of the week whilst Fairway tried to think of any contacts overseas. The situation would have to wait until the summer transfer window, when Cantero would be touted - with his agent's permission - to all corners of the globe in order to get some game time, but Lamb shrewdly suggested putting the word out early, in case there were any opportunities in those nations not covered by the usual transfer window. For the final few games Ross Laidlaw - also out of contract in the summer and with little interest in renewing - would be back in the first team picture.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 17th April 2021

Nottingham Forest 1 - Preston North End 3

Preston North End continued their fine run which has seen them lose on only three occasions since Christmas with a 3-1 win over a lacklustre Nottingham Forest. The first half was, much like the weather, a drab affair, with Keinan Davis striking the woodwork for the visitors in the fourth minute after Britt Assombalonga has fired an early volley into the side netting from close range. Preston had the better chances, with John Ruddy saving well from Daniel Johnson and Stephy Mavididi firing wide when one on one, but too often play was bogged down in a scrappy midfield battle.

The second half looked, initially, as if it may go the same way before Preston took the lead 14 minutes after the interval - Greg Cunningham finding Brian Bell in an unusually advanced position for a central defender, who laid off for Nicky Hughes to score from the edge of the area. The goal brought the game to life, and three minutes later, Cunningham worked another good opportunity on the left, squaring for Keinan Davis to tap home from close range as Forest failed to clear their lines. Preston were by now well on top and playing with confidence, but Forest had learnt from their earlier errors and closed down at every opportunity. Davis got a chance to add a third on 75, shooting wide with only Ruddy to beat when put through by the impressive Bell, before Anthony Pilkington's corner was met with a thumping Lewis Moult header a minute later. 'keeper Cameron Dawson did well to get down and block the initial effort, but couldn't hold on, allowing Moult a simple finish from close range. Forest failed to push on from their goal, although Assombalonga would see an effort tipped wide on 89, before, in injury time, a Preston break saw subs James Thomas and Marvin Emnes combine well, with the latter flighting a great ball which the late-arriving Nicky Hughes met on the volley, looping the ball into the corner of the net from just outside the box. There was no time for a comeback from Forest, with the majority of the crowd leaving disappointed - and many managers around the Championship wondering why they hadn't taken a chance on the in-form Hughes.

Forest; Ruddy, Fitzsimons (Licá 59), Hobbs, Iacovitti, Fryers, Forde, Brady, Cohen (c) (McAleny 57), Pilkington, Assombalonga, Hirst (Moult 51)

Unused; Kiely, Mancienne, Mills, Sterling

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne (Thomas 72), Johnson, Hughes, Mavididi (Emnes 72), Davis

Unused; Tuck, Laidlaw, Smyth, Windass, Toffolo

Referee; S Hooper - Attendance; 25,750

With victory for Cardiff at relegated Portsmouth , the first promotion place - and the title - was assured, a 5-1 victory showing Cardiff's dominance not just in the game, but over the whole season. The race for the second automatic promotion spot would go down to the wire, with Brighton currently holding a two point advantage over Blackburn . At the bottom, defeats for Bolton and Millwall , combined with a win for Aston Villa meant that, whilst nothing was yet certain, both could go down on Saturday should results go against them again. 

On Sunday morning Fairway was pleasantly surprised to see a plethora of loan offers for Ander Cantero - three sides in the USA and FC Inter Turku of Finland all interested. The offers were quickly accepted, and with little else for him to do, Fairway gave Cantero permission to take some time out over the week to investigate the approaches further and speak to the clubs involved. 

Whilst training went well early in the week, on Wednesday there was yet another twist in the Cantero saga - as a routine medical showed the goalkeeper was suffering from a double hernia, and would require a small operation, and around a month's recovery time. Fairway contacted the potential loan destinations with a feeling of despondency, but, too their credit, none immediately pulled their interest, leaving Cantero with some choices to make.

The Firsts trained together with the Under 23's for the remainder of the week, with Saturday's game against Aston Villa in mind - though he knew Villa, who still needed points to be assured of safety, would be no pushover, the manager did also feel it was a potential opportunity to blood young talent, and, with Keinan Davis unavailable against his parent side, liked enough of what he saw of 17 year old Alex Lane to name him in Saturday's starting eleven for a senior debut. On the bench there would be changes too, with Dan Crowley returning at the expense of Harry Toffolo , who would be returning to Blackburn at the expiration of his loan deal in the summer.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 24th April 2021

Preston North End 1 - Aston Villa 2

Aston Villa secured their Championship survival by inflicting Preston's first home defeat since early March. The hosts, who handed teenager Alex Lane his first team debut, started on the front foot, with Stephy Mavididi shooting wide in the second minute before Kerr could only parry the striker's effort from the edge of the box a couple of minutes later. Daniel Johnson had another chance saved on 8, whilst Lane would earn a corner on 16 before Preston's early pressure seemed to run out of steam, as Villa thwarted attacks with determined midfield play. The opening goal of the game would fall for the visitors as a result - Andre Green taking a quick throw to Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, who swung the ball into the area, giving Tom Bradshaw the opportunity to get across Cameron Dawson to prod home at the near post. Deepdale was stunned, but silenced completely on 41, when Trent Alexander-Arnold's long ball found the busy Green, who crossed for Tom Bradshaw to poach a second in almost identical circumstances. 

With Green close on 43, Preston were clearly glad to get to half time only two behind, and were sent out early for the second half, perhaps with their managers words ringing in their collective ears. Mavididi was denied an early chance to pull one back by the offside flag, whilst Johnson would see a well-struck free kick deflected wide on 52. Young Lane screwed wide when put through by Johnson on 66, but it was the playmaker himself who pulled the goal which, on the balance of play, Preston fully deserved back on 72. The two substitutes combined well, with James Thomas finding Marvin Emnes, who squared for Daniel Johnson to power a well-struck effort into the top corner. Preston now pushed forward, finding 18-year old Gregor Kerr in inspired form, with Emnes, Johnson and Alan Browne all close as time ran out. Home manager Stuart Fairway cut a frustrated figure at full time - Bradshaw's goals were Villa's only two shots on target of the afternoon - but with Preston having already achieved their highest League finish in five seasons, you sense there may be better to come in the future.

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c) (Tuck 80), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson, Hughes (Thomas 62), Mavididi (Emnes 62), Lane

Unused; Laidlaw, Crowley, Windass, Smyth

Aston Villa; Kerr, Alexander-Arnold, Elphick, Gardos, Westwood, Green (Murphy 56), Veretout (Willock 87), McGinn, Grealish, Bradshaw, Hepburn-Murphy

Unused; Clarke-Harris, Williams, Frei, Baker, Cousins

Referee; G Eltringham - Attendance; 15,432

Whilst Preston had done everything but score twice at home to Aston Villa, Fairway was pleased with the debut performance from the 17 year old Alex Lane suggesting to the teenager that he would get further chances to impress during the Preseason friendlies over the summer. Ander Cantero , meanwhile, who had not been out of the local headlines for the last week, would get his opportunity to play as well, as he flew out to Finland to link up with FC Inter Turku until November, when the Veikkausliiga season would come to an end.

With the transfer window closed, the scouting reports continued to occupy the Preston manager over the course of the week - as well as training, with Keinan Davis particularly keen to return to the fold after his forced absence against Villa. The change for Saturday would be exactly that - Lane missing out, and Davis returning alongside Stephy Mavididi in attack. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Saturday 1st May 2021

Barnsley 2 - Preston North End 4

A clinical first half display saw Preston North End score four in 30 minutes to see off Barnsley at Oakwell. After a quiet opening in which Sam Winnall's header over from Andreas Pereira's corner was the only chance of note, Preston opened the scoring on 16 - a sustained spell of possession from Preston before Stephy Mavididi turned from Daniel Johnson's pass to play in strike partner Keinan Davis , who made no mistake with a low, powerful drive beyond Chris Maxwell into the corner. Barnsley had chances, through Pereira and Michael Folivi, to respond instantly but it took until the 36th minute for them to level things up when Solly March stooped to head home Pereira's corner. Now the stage was set for the onslaught, with the visitors regaining the lead two minutes later when Davis found Marnick Vermilj in space on the right, who crossed for Daniel Johnson to smash home. Johnson was involved in Preston's third too, as on 40 his pass set Greg Cunningham clear on the left, only for the cross to be headed away by Cole Kpekawa. Nicky Hughes collected the loose ball, and, finding no space for a shot, instead slipped in Stephy Mavididi who made no mistake from just inside the box. With Barnsley already facing a hill to climb, it became a mountain on 44 - Hughes wonderful pass floating over a flailing Marc Roberts, allowing Stephy Mavididi to run in again and slot past the advancing Maxwell.

Preston began the second half as they had finished the first - Davis finding Mavididi, who shot just over on 49, before missing another chance to claim his hattrick when prodding wide four minutes later. Barnsley, having recovered from their collapse, threatened too - Pereira's free kick crashing against the bar on 57, but when skipper Roberts headed tamely and straight at Cameron Dawson on 72, home fans began to leave. They missed some action - Mavididi and Hughes both close - and also their side's consolation, when David Anyamele slotted home from the penalty spot after Tom Clarke had handled in the box. It was the last meaningful chance of note for either side - Preston content to hold their lead without pushing for further goals, and Barnsley unable to consistently break through a strong Preston back line.

Barnsley; Maxwell, Richards, Roberts, Wharton, Kpekawa, March, Peteira, Boating (Anyamele 67), Aarons, Winnall (Scowen 67), Folivi (Davies 45)

Unused; Walton, Blackett, Egbo, Gorré

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c) , Bell, Burn (Tuck 60), Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson (Thomas 60), Hughes, Mavididi, Davis

Unused; Laidlaw, Crowley, Windass, Smyth, Emnes

Referee; M Jones - Attendance; 16,514

Whilst Preston had been celebrating their final away day with a fine win, for a former North End player, the penultimate Saturday of the season had been an altogether more stressful affair. All worked out in the end though, as, despite picking up a booking, Ben Pearson and Brentford took a point from the Den in a goalless draw with Millwall - securing their safety at the expense of the Lions, who would be relegated. 

The most productive time spent of the early part of the week by the coaching staff appeared to be organising Ian Miller's retirement party - and whilst Fairway was happy to contribute ideas, he also had one eye on the future, with Miller's replacement likely to be a key deal of the summer. He knew who he wanted, and Andy Lamb had given the go ahead, but until Miller retired, it felt inappropriate to make a formal approach. 

With the final opponents of the season now condemned regardless to life in League One, the final day now threatened to be a little underwhelming, with a side ensconced in the lower half of mid table playing an already relegated side, but Fairway again named Alex Lane in the squad, replacing Josh Windass on the bench. The big games of the day meanwhile would be at Brighton and Blackburn - Rovers currently second but with only a two point advantage over their South Coast rivals, meaning all could change in the hunt for automatic promotion. 

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Sunday 9th May 2021

Preston North End 1 - Millwall 0

Retiring Preston assistant manager Ian Miller led the sides out on a wet and drab day at Deepdale, but despite a win, his day will have been slightly marred by seeing Preston's young striker Stephy Mavididi taken to hospital with an ankle injury. Millwall's return to The Championship was ended after their first season, and after a tame performance, it is easy to see why. Preston started well, and took the lead early on, with Stephy Mavididi finishing in fine style on 19 after Daniel Johnson's deft pass. Mavididi returned the favour, teeing up Johnson on 23, only for Jordan Archer to make an acrobatic save. His day was ended scarcely two minutes later - Joey O'Brien catching the 22-year old with a tackle which was late rather than malicious, but nonetheless saw a stretcher on the field of play. The remainder of the first half was somewhat subdued as a result, with Preston skipper Tom Clarke blocking Louis Campion's long-range strike shortly before the interval.

The scrappiness continued into the second half, although Victor Moses' inswinging cross caused some problems for Cameron Dawson, who could only hold at the second attempt, before Keinan Davis' run, on his final Preston appearance before returning to Aston Villa, was halted by the arm of Kyle Bartley. Much to Millwall's fury, a penalty was awarded by the excellent Keith Stroud, only for a sense of justice to reverberate around the away end when Archer saved from Daniel Johnson's weak effort. Mavididi's younger replacement, the 17 year old Alex Lane, saw his effort go just over on 57, whilst Davis drew a full length save from Archer twenty minutes later, but the injury cast a shadow over proceedings which ended - much like Millwall's return to the second tier - with little fanfare. 

Millwall; Archer, Cummings, Bartley, Hutchinson, Cissokho, O'Brien (Quitongo 88), Moses, Thompson, Campion, Ferguson (Bennetts 79), Muskwe (Long 68)

Unused; Dimitrov, Berra, Clayton, Chambers

Preston; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bell, Burn, Vermilj, Cunningham, Browne, Johnson (Thomas 63), Hughes, Mavididi (Lane 27), Davis

Unused; Tuck, Laidlaw, Crowley, Smyth, Emnes

Referee; K Stroud - Attendance; 17,841

The post-game news on Stephy Mavididi was not great, with the damage confirmed as a broken ankle, ruling the striker out for 2-3 months, meaning that, dependent on recovery, he would be a major doubt for the majority of preseason. Elsewhere, the big news came from Brighton & Hove Albion , who, courtesy of a Manuel Pucciarelli goal, recorded a 1-0 victory over Wolves , which, combined with Blackburn Rovers being held to a goalless draw by Leeds at Ewood Park, gave the Seagulls the edge - on goal difference - in the race for automatic promotion. 

With the league season for Preston concluded, Fairway met with Andy Lamb and Steve Osman to discuss how things had gone. He was given a glowing endorsement, with Lamb declaring himself very pleased. Better news was to follow - the initial wage budget set at £163,000, with the preliminary transfer budget upped to £549,000. Fairway spoke briefly to his Chairman about his summer plans, and whilst he had already decided to wait until Thursday - by which time the Under 23's season would be finished - to let those out of contract know of their fate, the decisions were already made, and the Chairman was now also aware. 

Unusually, Fairway travelled to watch the U23's on Wednesday afternoon - in this first season, especially with the first team being in such dire straits at the time of his appointment, he had adopted a mostly hands-off approach, although did receive regular reports from Duncan Shearer , and, of course, saw what was effectively Preston's second string train daily at Springfields. It wasn't a bad performance, but a 1-0 defeat nonetheless, to Oldham as Preston finished the season in fourth place. It was a similar case with Marvin Andrews and the Under 18's , who had struggled all season and, despite a late rally, ended the season bottom of their league. Speaking to both age group managers before he sat down with the out of contract players on Thursday morning, Fairway made it clear that he did not feel the results reflected poorly on them as individuals, given that both had come in mid-season and picked up what was effectively someone else's squad. He also promised that, going forward, both would see a lot more of the first team manager as he sought to mould the Preston squad with a busy summer ahead.

As Fairway sat down at his desk on Thursday morning, he knew he had a long day ahead of him. Contract day. The annual event when those players out of contract at the end of the season would learn their fate. Starting with the Under 18's, Fairway was able to offer good news to one - centre back Marvin Buchanan offered a full professional contract with the instruction to push on over the forthcoming year. Privately Fairway doubted if Buchanan would quite make the grade at Preston, but had liked enough of what he had seen to take a gamble. It would sadly not be the case for no less than eleven others - Joel Ebbrell, Scott Hunter, Brian Wilson, Callum Kay, Jay Tierney, Peter Burn, Kenny Simpson, Jeremy Blackburn, Anthony Westwood, Kieran Foster and Leeroy Blair seeing their dreams crushed. It was not a nice moment for Fairway, as the seemingly never-ending crop of young players came in, one by one, only to be told there would be no deal. On that score, the day would only get worse when it came to the current crop of Under 23's - with Dean Russell, Osei Sulley, Tom Turner, Lewis King, Jack Maes, Nathan Morgan, Louis Best, James Odegbami and Sean Roberts all informed that the manager did not see a future for them at the club. That left four.

Of the quartet of Senior players, who were due in to see their manager in the afternoon, one had already made up his mind, with backup 'keeper Ross Laidlaw having previously informed Fairway that he wanted to take his chances elsewhere. The Scot had cost his predecessor just under £6,000, but had not made a senior appearance for North End, and with Cameron Dawson - and possibly Ander Cantero , depending on his work permit issues being resolved, ahead of him, saw little future at Deepdale. Next would be Tim Hofstede , who had been involved in the squad when Fairway arrived but soon found himself way down the pecking order. Preston had circulated his details towards the end of the transfer window, but saw no takers, and the Dutchman did not seem surprised when told that he would not be getting a new contract, after just four games over his three seasons with the club. The final two were where things got challenging. Club captain Tom Clarke had, when asked, requested what Fairway felt was extortionate wages for a centre back who had lost a yard or two of pace over the season and was approaching his 34th birthday. On the flip side, Clarke, as a person, was invaluable - a committed, whole hearted defender, he carried the demeanour of a true professional, and Fairway felt his leadership skills would be sorely missed. When the subject was broached again however, Clarke told his manager that he would wait and see what transpired over the coming six weeks before expiry, and did not want to discuss terms at present.

This would leave Fairway with a dilemma - whether to tell Clarke that there would be no offer, or adopt a similar approach to see if he changed his tune as the end of June approached. After consultation with the Chairman, Preston North End, as a club, made a decision to go for the latter - no deal yet, but also no formal notice that his contract would not be renewed. Wait and see. The final name was the unfortunate one. Liam Coyle had joined Preston following his release by Liverpool in the summer of 2018. He had spent time out on loan at Stalybridge Celtic, Tranmere Rovers and Nuneaton Town without pulling up any trees - but, in the early part of the season, had suffered, by all accounts, an extremely serious cruciate ligament injury. Recovery had not been easy, with Coyle still requiring daily physiotherapy. The coaches opinion was unanimous - but it was still very tough for Fairway to tell the 21 year old that he would be released, knowing full well it could be the final nail in the coffin of a once promising career. 

Those out of contract would be continuing at the club - in theory - until the 30th June, but with Preseason set to commence on the 28th of June, Fairway knew it would be a final farewell for many of his squad as the 'Summer Holidays' officially began on Friday. Before then, there would be the annual presentation evening - Greg Cunningham taking the big award as Supporters Player of the Year , whilst Daniel Johnson , for his screamer against Aston Villa , carried off the Goal of the Season trophy. The Signing of the Season and Young Player of the Season , pleasingly for the manager, went to two of his acquisitions - Brian Bell and Nicky Hughes respectively. It would also serve as the official goodbye, and good luck, to Ian Miller - who still had a big night out to look forward to - and three further players, with loanees Harry Toffolo and Keinan Davis now free to return to their parent clubs, and Ben Pringle , who would be leaving for Glasgow Rangers when the transfer window officially reopened on the 9th of June.

Whilst he wanted to get cracking on filling the gaps in his squad already, Fairway also knew that the first week of Preseason was traditionally family time, and Andy Lamb agreed - the club mobile would go off, and, courtesy a personal gift from the Chairman, the manager and his family would be off for a week in the West Country. Fairway had initially been a little reluctant to get away quite so soon, but as he sat with his wife on the deck, watching the kids play in the surf, he couldn't think of anywhere else he would rather be.

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After a week in North Devon Fairway was itching to get back in the saddle - Ian Miller , who would not formally retire until mid-June, had kindly kept things ticking over for Fairway whilst he had been away, and updated the manager on events at Deepdale on his return. The big news was twofold - firstly a new £1.3 Million kit sponsorship deal that was considerably more than the club had enjoyed before, and secondly a new addition to the club's medical department. Fairway had long wanted to add a dedicated physio for the first team, allowing Head Physio Matt Jackson to concentrate on the more long term cases, and whilst he had been away, news came through that a work permit had finally been granted for someone who had come highly recommended, Hungarian László Ágh to join the club from Gyor . 

Keen to take advantage of Miller's experience whilst he was still able to, Fairway also spent time going through the positions of the squad for next season. With the name of Tom Clarke marked with double question marks, such was the uncertainty over the captain, Fairway and Miller decided that several positions needed strengthening. For the first team, at least one striker to replace loanee Keinan Davis would be essential, as would a backup goalkeeper with the departure of Ross Laidlaw in mind. Fairway also wanted to bring in a centre back, having been informed that Clarke would likely wait until at least mid-June before he would be willing to talk - and, with Harry Toffolo also returning, there would also be the issue of cover at left wingback. Elsewhere, with significant cuts to the Under 23 and Under 18 squads, there would also need to be young players in a variety of positions brought in to provide cover. It would clearly be a busy summer.

By Thursday however another potential departure emerged, when Oxford United tabled a surprise £1.2 Million bid for Josh Windass . With Windass little more than a bit-part, and with his real strengths laying as a wide player, Fairway was only too happy to accept, anticipating the transfer fee would be a real boost to the coffers. When Fairway spoke to Andy Lamb about the offer to gain his consent, he would - not for the first time - be stunned by his Chairman's ideas and enthusiasm. The conversation around Windass was over quickly - Lamb reminding Fairway he had been given full control over transfer matters, and that he would back his manager with whatever decision he made - but, as an almost throwaway remark, he asked if Fairway fancied another break in the sun. This time though it would be with the team - as part of the new kit sponsorship, the opportunity had arisen for a ten day training camp in the Algarve - starting on the day Preston returned to training. With only the briefest hesitation out of politeness, Fairway was delighted to take Lamb up on the offer - remarking to Miller, who, in another remarkable gesture, had been offered the chance to come with his wife for a holiday on the club, that it now felt like Preston North End were hitting the big time.

With the Playoffs Final on Monday, Wolverhampton Wanderers had the honour of becoming the final Championship side to secure a berth in next seasons Premier League - a nervy affair settled by a single Ola John goal in the 69th minute to break Derby County hearts, the season was finally concluded. Daniel Johnson , having already carried off the Preston Supporters goal of the year trophy, won second place in the national award, behind a Sone Aluko effort which was quite possibly the highlight of relegated Portsmouth's season. Johnson also picked up a spot in the Championship 'Team of the Year', voted for by his peers, a just reward for his efforts over the course of the campaign. It would also be the end of an era - as, after 25 years in the hotseat at Highbury and then The Emirates, Arsene Wenger signed a new contract to 'move upstairs' at Arsenal , becoming Director of Football on a five year contract taking him up to his late 70's, with the Gunners rumoured to be chasing Luis Enrique of Barcelona as his replacement as Head Coach.

Closer to home, a new month would also bring with it a board meeting, and Fairway, with the news that Preston had been handed just over £5 million in 'Solidarity' payments from the Premier League, had already decided he would try his luck. Lamb agreed. Osman agreed - and by the time the rest of the directors had been consulted, Fairway knew he had been successful in his request, with significant improvements to Preston's youth facilities agreed. The work would take a few months, with the developments, including, but by no means limited to, a new hydrotheraphy pool, a complete overhaul of the gym and a new 500-seat spectator stand for the main U18 pitch at Springfields, set to cost close to £900,000. Whilst it - perhaps - could have brought him a decent player, Fairway felt the improvements were vital, with his agreed philosophy on youth development uppermost in his thoughts. It would not be Fairway's only gain from the meeting - permission also granted to add an additional First Team Coach to his backroom staff.

By Friday, terms had been agreed, and Jason Dodd , most recently of Notts County but more famous for an eighteen year playing stint at hometown club Southampton checked in to start the process of settling in to his new surroundings. Fairway was delighted with his appointment, signing the former fullback to a long-term deal. It would not be the only signature which the manager would countersign that day - as Josh Windass came in to clear his locker and bid farewell to the coaching staff, after agreeing personal terms on his £1.2 Million move to Oxford United .

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By contrast to the previous busy few days, the following week would start quietly, before exploding into life when the transfer window reopened on Wednesday morning. Josh Windass and Ben Pringle departed - as did young midfielder James Thomas , the subject of a season-long loan bid from Scottish Premier League newcomers Dundee United . Whilst Fairway felt that Thomas had a future at Deepdale, the promise of first team football in a competitive league was enough to see both manager and player keen on the move, with Billy Dodds promising Thomas - and Fairway - that the lad would get plenty of opportunities at Tannadice. From the permanent deals, Fairway would get a healthy chunk of the proceeds - his transfer budget now up to just over the £1.6 million mark. He would also be able to confirm the Preseason Friendlies - with Preston taking on Portuguese giants Benfica's 'B' Team, followed by local side Lagoa during their training camp in Portugal. Their return to the British Isles would see a trip to Brora Rangers two days after their return from The Algarve, then a visit from Glasgow Rangers to Deepdale on Saturday 17th July. Four further games followed - Bamber Bridge away (Tuesday 20th), Newport County at home (Saturday 24th), Chorley away (Tuesday 27th) and finally Southport at home on Saturday 31st July, before the League kick-off a week later.

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Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 11th June

EXCLUSIVE - England Under 20's Star Set For Preston

The Post understands that Preston manager Stuart Fairway is set to make Manchester City's England Under 20 International Sam Bowles his first signing of the summer after Bowles rejected a new contract at The Ehtihad. Whilst Bowles has not made a Premier League appearance for City, he has played six first team games in Cup competitions, and has spent the past two seasons out on loan, appearing 33 times for Aberdeen in the Scottish Premier League and was ever present last season for Bury in League One.

Predominantly a Central Defender, Bowles can also cover on the left or right of defence, and is currently with England's Under 20 squad at the Under 20 World Cup in Algeria, but was an unused sub in last night's 2-1 Semi Final victory over Mexico, a game in which former Preston loanee Gavin Caton scored the winning goal in extra time. England saw two defenders sent off in the game, meaning Bowles could be in line for a place in the lineup for the Final against Brazil on Sunday evening.

Fairway wasn't quite sure how the news had got out in time to be in the Friday evening paper, but he was satisified that, for once, it was accurate, and he was delighted to secure the young defender, especially with Tom Clarke's future still a long way from being certain. 

Following Bowles' arrival - which would not go through until the 1st of July, with the youngster set to fly out to join Preston in Portugal at the expiration of his contract - Fairway looked forward to a quiet weekend. He had planned to take some scouting reports home with him, but otherwise expected little to distract him from one of the precious few times in a year when a football manager can spend time with his family. This weekend, he would be wrong.

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After a leisurely start to Sunday morning, Fairway was somewhat surprised to see a call from a number which he didn't recognise pop up on the club mobile. Ignoring the temptation to let it go to voicemail, he answered, and found himself talking hearing the New Jersey drawl of Bob Bradley . The Leeds United manager didn't beat around the bush, tabling a £3.25 Million offer, plus another £650,000 after 50 league appearances for Greg Cunningham . The offer took Fairway aback - whilst he knew the reaction from the supporters for selling the Fans Player of the Year would be hostile, such a transfer fee could set the team up for the season - and give him the funds to rebuild. It was though at the lower end of what Fairway considered fair for the 30 year old, and instead asked for £4.5 Million. Bradley obliged, and after a slightly awkward call to Cunningham, Fairway informed the fullback he would be contacted by Bradley to arrange a meeting to discuss personal terms.

Whilst the deal for Cunningham would be a permanent one, Fairway was less surprised to see loan offers for Will Tuck and the out of favour Martyn Biggs on Monday afternoon. No less than 20 clubs requested Tuck for the season, but after looking at the offers, Fairway immediately vetoed nearly all of them, with no desire to see the talented youngster go to a club at a low level, instead accepting an offer from Scottish outfit Hibernian , who were also one of the suitors for Biggs, along with Falkirk and the winger's previous loan club, Aberdeen . 

Greg Cunningham's transfer went through on Wednesday, and though Fairway was delighted with the fee, it was with a sense of genuine regret that he bade Cunningham a final farewell. With Cunningham now departing, Fairway met with a demob happy Ian Miller for the final time - in a work sense - on Thursday morning to go through the options for his replacement. The scouts had been busy, and there were a number of options - not least former loanee Harry Toffolo , who had been transfer-listed on his return to Blackburn Rovers . After seeking Miller's opinions for the final time, Fairway allowed his assistant to leave early and prepare for a night out that the 66 year old would not forget in a hurry.

With his head still feeling as if it didn't belong to him, Fairway arrived at his desk late on Monday morning. His first port of call was to dial a phone number which he still remembered off by heart. It had been over six months since he left Lincoln City , but he still, at times, considered the Imps 'his' club, and when Ian Miller had told him of his retirement plans, there was only one name in the frame for his replacement as Assistant Manager. It would not be the only call, as BBC Radio Lancashire also wanted a word on rumours linking Fairway with the manager's job at Ipswich Town who had just lost Andy Thomas to Premier League Bournemouth . Fairway found himself somewhat mystified by the rumours, and, rather candidly, told the journalist as much, saying that he had no intention of leaving Preston.

As Harry Toffolo prepared to discuss terms with Nottingham Forest after Fairway declined to make a bid on Sunday, the manager was able to welcome his second summer arrival - Ian Miller's parting gift. Craig Black , a 19-year old Scottish 'keeper, had come through the ranks at Celtic , but had been released despite two years of successful loan spells. Miller alerted Fairway to his availability on Saturday morning, confirming no ill effects had been suffered from his retirement party, and, trusting his former number two's judgement, Fairway had made an immediate offer. Signing his new contract, Black certainly looked the part - 6'2, strong and clearly intelligent, with Fairway feeling that he would make a more than adequate backup to Cameron Dawson , as well as being a potential first choice in the future.

Monday would also see Tom Clarke called in to Deepdale. With Fairway acutely aware that time was running out on the veteran's current deal, he was pleased to hear that Clarke was willing, at last, to enter negotiations. The lack of an agent made things a little easier, but the player proved no pushover, with a long spell of talks, before, eventually, a deal was hammered out that would be - just about, in Fairway's case - satisfactory to both parties. It would prove to be a busy day all round, as, late in the afternoon, Mark Morrison made the move, following Fairway from Lincoln City to Preston North End to, once again, become the Riker to Fairway's Picard.

The following day Will Tuck and Martyn Biggs left the club, for Hibernian and Aberdeen respectively on season-long loan deals. The temporary departures allowed Fairway the chance to bring Morrison up to speed on his summer transfer business - and the number of clubs, and indeed agents, who Fairway felt had a vastly inflated opinion of the value of their players. There was also a chance to speak about their mutual previous club - Lincoln had finished a very creditable 12th in League One in their first season, and both sincerely hoped, despite their departures, that the Imps would continue to go from strength to strength.

Thursday saw the annual 'fixture release day', with Preston handed a home game first up, against Reading on Saturday 7th August. It would be followed by an away game in the first round of the League Cup , with North End travelling to League Two Harrogate Town , who achieved a creditable 16th in their first ever season in League football following their Playoffs success to earn promotion from the National League in 2019/20. With the players back on Monday - and Preston off to Portugal - it would also be the day when Andy Lamb sat down with Fairway - and Morrison - to hammer out the goals for the season ahead. Fairway told the Chairman he felt Preston could avoid relegation, with some sensible business in the summer, and was delighted to be backed heavily - the wage budget set at £141,000, with the transfer budget a cool £3.8 Million. The task now would be to spend it correctly.

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Preston's playing squad returned to training on Monday morning, for a meeting at Springfields and the annual weigh-in, ahead of the trip to Portugal. Fairway welcomed his players back, noting the lack of numbers compared to the last time he had seen them all together. There were new faces with the seniors though - trialist left back Matty Foulds , who would be out of contract at Everton at the end of the month, new signing Craig Black , as well as youngsters Adam Smith, Nigel Cartwright, Dave Byrne, Alex Lane, Alan McManus, Graham Hargreaves, Marvin Buchanan and Jonathan Mooney in the party travelling to Portugal. The only absentee of note for the trip would be the Gold Cup bound Daniel Johnson . Fairway explained that the first couple of days in the Algarve would be mostly fitness and some light ball work, and that he would be joining them in the sun on Friday after taking care of some final business back at base. He also introduced the players to Mark Morrison , with the Scot left in charge of the first few days of preseason. The first of the duties which had kept Fairway in Lancashire would be dealt with on Tuesday afternoon, with new Under 18 Goalkeeping Coach , the former England international Scott Carson , and a sixth Scout, Irishman Nigel Keady from Galway United , both signing their contracts.

Fairway was disappointed to hear from Morrison on Wednesday afternoon that Johnny Burn had suffered a groin strain, ruling him out for around three weeks, but better news would follow in the morning, when Inverness Caledonian Thistle accepted Preston's bid of just over £100,000 for 20 year old striker Ross Soutar . Fairway knew the striker well - he had handed Soutar his senior debut at just 16 when he was in charge at Montrose , and was pleased to see the progress the player had made since then. Since their joint Links Park days, Soutar had moved north to the capital of the Highlands, taking a while to establish himself in the first team picture, but scoring 8 times from 8 starts last season. Combined with a glowing report from Scottish scout Kenny Black , this return, as well as Fairway's previous knowledge of the forward had been enough to tempt him into an offer, and with such a modest fee, Fairway felt it was a gamble worth taking. As he showed Soutar around Deepdale before making an offer of personal terms, he was pleased to be able to introduce the Scot to Sam Bowles , who would be travelling to Portugal with Fairway after completing his move from Manchester City . Both players had been - for opposing nations - at the recent Under 20's World Cup , with Bowles collecting a winner's medal for England whilst Soutar made two appearances off the bench for Scotland , who bowed out at the Quarter Final stage to the Auld Enemy with a squad which also included Craig Black .

As Bowles and Fairway stepped off the plane in Faro, Mark Morrison greeted Fairway with a handshake and a warm smile, along with astonishment, as the news had just broken that Manchester United had made Paris Saint Germain midfielder Marco Verratti the World's most expensive footballer at an incredible £97 Million. Despite the surprise at such a fee, his new assistant was clearly getting into the swing of things quickly, and had praise for the trialist Foulds , who had shown up well so far. He, as well as Bowles , would get a chance to impress against what was expected to be a young Benfica side, with only Burn , Jonathan Mooney , who had picked up a slight bug, and Stephy Mavididi , still a couple of weeks off resuming training, unavailable.

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https://www.pnefc.net/lilywhitesinportugal/

Preston North End 1 - Benfica B 2 - Preseason Friendly

A mix of youth and experience in the Preston lineup for the first of two matches taking place over the course of the Portuguese training camp saw the Lilywhites beaten 2-1 by a young Benfica side this evening. Preston rode the early pressure with new signing Sam Bowles clearing off the line on his debut, and took the lead through Nicky Hughes' free kick just before half time. Stuart Fairway made eight changes at the interval, sending on several youngsters, including three 16 year olds to fully rotate the side, and after the break, Benfica scored twice in quick succession. On 62 Adam Smith was slightly harshly penalised for what looked to be an innocuous collision in the area, with Diego Batista just beating Craig Black to level from the penalty spot, before, two minutes later, Zé Gomes , a striker with three full international caps to his name, found space to slot home from close range. Preston rallied late on, with young wingback Nigel Cartwright close from the angle, but it was in vain as the Portugese side ran out 2-1 winners.

Speaking after the game manager Stuart Fairway said; "It was a worthwhile exercise and a good chance for our young players to come up against some very strong opponents. I was pleased with the performances all round and delighted for Nicky Hughes, who scored a great free kick."

Preston First Half; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bowles, Bell, Vermilj, Trialist, Browne, Hughes, Crowley, Lane, Emnes

Preston Second Half; Black, Buchanan, Smyth, Byrne, Cartwright, Smith, Browne (c), McManus, Hargreaves, Lane, Emnes

Speaking with Fairway and Morrison after the game over a couple of very enjoyable bottles of Sagres , Head Data Analyst Alistair Lishman[/i] was able to reveal that the game's three goals were the only shots on target all evening - both sides playing at a somewhat leisurely pace in searing heat. As the trio went through the game, two names stood out for all as impressive - debutant Bowles and teenage prospect Lane , who put himself about well and linked up play in the 'Number 10' role. Trialist Foulds did his prospects little harm defensively, but offered little going forward, which would be a concern in the longer term.

With a couple of days before the final game, the management team were pleased to welcome a second trialist, Macedonian international Daniel Mballoma , who had agreed to link up with Preston for a couple of weeks and had offered to pay his own way to Portugal. The attitude instantly endeared him to the manager, although there were concerns that the striker, capped four times by his country, would struggle to gain a work permit for a permanent switch.

After Sunday's much welcomed rest day, with just some light work on the beach followed by the chance for the players and coaches to relax, Monday began with the unwelcome news that Chesterfield had made an approach to Matty Foulds , although the trialist seemed content to stay in Portugal for at least the final match, against local amateur side Lagoa on Tuesday evening. Marvin Emnes joined the unavailabilities for the game, with a damaged heel, although Jonathan Mooney had sufficiently recovered from his stomach bug to be involved. 

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https://www.pnefc.net/lilywhitesinportugal/

Preston North End 4 - Lagoa 0 - Preseason Friendly

The small cadré of North End supporters who have travelled to Portugal for the first glimpse of Stuart Fairway's side ahead of the 2021/22 season were rewarded with a comprehensive victory against local side Lagoa. On a bumpy but well lit municipal pitch, Preston took an early lead when a great cross from Trialist A on the left was headed in by Trialist B from close range. Preston continued to pile on the pressure, and in the 18th minute Alex Lane rose highest to meet Dan Crowley's corner to double the lead. Preston continued to create chances throughout the first half, and added a third on 42 when Crowley teed up Trialist B for a cool finish. After the interval the trialist turned provider, with a low cross for Adam Smith to slot home from close range, with several of the club's young players again getting a chance to impress in front of the watching boss. Dan Crowley struck the bar from the edge of the box on 76, whilst Lagoa threatened from distance, but the Lilywhites proved far too strong, seeing the game out comfortably.

Speaking after the game manager Stuart Fairway said; "The two lads who we have on trial really impressed me today, with some great finishing by the young striker. We know he has pedigree but unfortunately there are some work permit concerns, but we'll see if we can get something done, as I really like the look of him"

Preston First Half; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bowles, Bell, Vermilj, Trialist A, Browne, Hughes, Crowley, Lane, Trialist B

Preston Second Half; Black, Buchanan, Smyth, Byrne, Cartwright, Mooney, Crowley (c), McManus, Hargreaves, Smith, Trialist B

Mballoma's performance had indeed been a revelation, and Foulds too showed some good touches. The latter, however would be a non-starter - when Fairway approached the 23 year old on Wednesday morning, the penultimate day in Portugal, he was informed that the former Everton man wanted a guarantee of first team football, which Preston were not prepared to give. Fairway gave him permission to leave the camp early, with Charlton Athletic having joined Chesterfield as potential suitors.

After another days rest and relaxation, a reluctant group of players and officials boarded the plane for the relatively short flight back to England on Thursday morning. Daniel Mballoma would be amongst them as he continued his bid to earn a contract, but the better news, in Fairway's opinion, was that Stephy Mavididi had been considered fit enough to join in with some light work on the final day, fully justifying the gamble of taking the previously injured forward with the squad to Portugal.

Upon their return to England, Fairway sat down with Mark Morrison for a debrief. The pair had enjoyed the time abroad, and felt that it was a very worthwhile exercise, with the manager quick to thank Andy Lamb for his foresight in arranging the training camp. Lamb smiled, before revealing further good news - that the board had agreed to give Fairway the freedom of the globe with regard to scouting, no longer just restricting him to Europe. Preston's summer, after a shaky start, was so far going very, very well.

[tenthreeleader]

Love this read. Really a nice style. And as one who has played Blackpool in previous incarnations of this game, it's interesting to see life on the Preston side of things.

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https://www.pnefc.net/

Brora Rangers 0 - Preston North End 3 - Preseason Friendly

Preston ran out 3-0 winners in tonight's latest Preseason Friendly away at Scottish Highland League side Brora Rangers. Preston started brightly, hitting the woodwork early on, before a great interchange between Alex Lane and Nicky Hughes saw the young midfielder curl the ball into the roof of the net from just outside the area. Brian Bell glanced home a header from Dan Crowley's free kick on 27, whilst Hughes, Browne and Trialist B all had chances before half time. Mass changes at the break saw a somewhat disjointed start to the second half, with Anderson close for the hosts, but on 66 David Smyth turned the ball back across the area from a corner, allowing teenager Alan McManus to steer into the net from close range. Preston could have added a fourth late on when Hargreaves shot wide, but had to settle for just the three in a good performance.

Following the match, Stuart Fairway said; "We are starting to gel and I'm pleased with how things are going so far. The youngsters have slotted into the squad really well, which we wanted and is the point of getting them involved."

Preston First Half; Dawson, Clarke (c), Bowles, Bell, Vermilj, Smith, Browne, Hughes, Crowley, Lane, Trialist B

Preston Second Half; Black, Buchanan, Smyth, Byrne, Cartwright, Mooney, Browne (c), McManus, Hargreaves, Emnes, Trialist B

A rather subdued performance from Daniel Mbolloma , combined with his work permit problems meant that the young Macedonian would not be earning a contract, and, with the scouts having other options waiting in the wings, he would leave Deepdale on Monday morning with his trial spell ending early.

Fairway was delighted to be able to welcome a permanent addition to the squad the same morning, as Ross Soutar finally made up his mind to link up with his old manager again, putting pen to paper on the £100,000 move from Inverness Caledonian Thistle . The manager was determined that Soutar's arrival would not be the only one over the course of the week, with the glamour friendly against Glasgow Rangers approaching on Saturday, and left training to the coaching staff whilst he and Morrison plotted the future over the first couple of days of the week. By late on Tuesday, they not only identified a target, but had seen an offer accepted.

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www.bbc.co.uk/football - Wednesday 14th July 2021

BBC Sportsday

14.53

BREAKING TRANSFER NEWS Still nothing official on that Franck Kessié to Arsenal story which appeared from multiple sources this morning, but we do have some confirmed news for you from The Championship, where Middlesbrough have announced they have accepted an offer from Preston North End for 20 year old striker Rico Vanzie . A short statement from Teesside announced that a fee had been agreed and that Vanzie was yet to agree personal terms.

In fact, by the time the news was out, personal terms had been agreed, and Rico Vanzie was in discussions with his agent as to if he would be accepting the move to Lancashire, with the Twittersphere ablaze with Preston and Middlesbrough supporters alike trading opinions on Vanzie's ability. Fairway however was pleased with the striker - first spotted by the scouting team last season when he scored 13 in 30 games on loan at Dundee United , although it was clear from the reports that his main strengths lie not in the scoring of goals, but the creating of them. Fairway had not been overly happy with anyone he tried last season in the deeper laying of the two forward roles in the 5-3-2 - Emnes and Windass both maddeningly inconsistent, leading to the latter's departure, and the quicker strikers, loanee Davis and Stephy Mavididi somewhat wasted . As well as a left wing back, a player to fill the role had been one of the prime targets, and now he would have that man.

By Friday morning Andy Lamb had authorised the transfer of the funds - £1.3 Million initially, with the potential for the fee to be a little higher with add-ons, rising to a maximum of £1.4 million. Fairway was reasonably pleased with the fee, though it was a little higher than he initially wanted to pay, and was frustrated that Vanzie's agent, the redoubtable Jack Grant , who he had previously dealt with when arranging the signings of Cameron Dawson and Johnny Burn , had insisted on a £3.2 Million release clause for higher division sides. Vanzie's arrival was announced via a Friday morning Press Conference ahead of the game against Glasgow Rangers , which came too soon for Johnny Burn and Stephy Mavididi , though fellow new striker Ross Soutar would be included in the squad.

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23 hours ago, tenthreeleader said:

Love this read. Really a nice style. And as one who has played Blackpool in previous incarnations of this game, it's interesting to see life on the Preston side of things.

Thanks, glad you are enjoying it - I've always been drawn to 'fallen giants', so when the Preston job came up, I couldn't resist applying 

Typically I haven't been able to play Blackpool yet! I did look for them when it came to arranging friendlies, but they weren't interested unfortunately.