Photo via BBC Sport

Struggling Preston sack Heckingbottom

Preston North End have dismissed manager Paul Heckingbottom following a dismal run of six losses across their past seven fixtures, leaving the team sitting 23rd in the Championship table. The former boss, who arrived in August 2024 and led the squad for 109 matches overall, struggled significantly throughout 2026, managing merely five victories in 27 league outings since January.

The final straw proved to be Saturday's 1-0 home setback against Lincoln City, which concluded under heavy jeering from the Deepdale crowd and prompted the board to act despite substantial financial backing provided for player recruitment during his tenure.

Assistant manager Stuart McCall has likewise exited the club alongside the departing head coach. First-team coach Jason Euell will take temporary control of the dugout as the Lilywhites prepare to visit Queens Park Rangers this coming Saturday, ahead of an upcoming three-week pause for international fixtures.