Football Season Guide

Preston endured an up-and-down season in 2020/21, as the Lilywhites went from potential relegation candidates in early 2021, to safe and secure in mid-table when Frankie McAvoy took over from Alex Neil. With Frankie McAvoy taking on his first full season in charge of Preston, there is a general sense of optimism around the club heading into the season, with the feeling Preston can cause a few upsets this season and prove the doubters wrong. The decisions to bring Van den Berg and Lindsay back following successful loan deals were smart and keeps the consistency following a successful end to last season. Adding Brown to the attack was a smart move, as it adds more depth and quality in the attacking areas where Preston did struggle at times last season. McAvoy deployed a 3-4-1-2 when he took over and it paid off, as Preston looked far more cohesive and much more dangerous going forward. Expect more of the same to start this season as the Scot will look to keep the momentum going from last season. Preston really struggled in defence last campaign, although that changed in the 2nd half of the season, it's still McAvoy's biggest concern and one he must address heading into 2021/22 if North End are to make a strong push for the play-offs.