The pre-season clash between Preston North End and Lincoln City is set to be an intriguing match-up.
Both teams will be looking to gauge their readiness for the upcoming season. Here’s an in-depth look at the teams' forms, predictions, and news ahead of this friendly fixture.
Team Info
Preston North End
Under the management of Ryan Lowe, Preston North End has shown promise but struggled to maintain consistency during the critical phases of their season.
Despite a disappointing end to the 2023-24 season, where they lost five consecutive games without scoring, Preston has retained Lowe as their manager. The club’s management has opted to support him in the transfer market rather than seek a new direction.
Preston’s notable signings include Icelandic midfielder Stefan Teitur Thordarson from Silkeborg and Leeds United playmaker Sam Greenwood on loan.
This fixture marks the start of their pre-season, which includes high-profile matches against Fiorentina and Everton.
Lincoln City
Lincoln City, managed by Michael Skubala, had an impressive second half in their last campaign, narrowly missing out on the League One playoffs.
With only two losses in their final 20 games, the Imps are considered strong contenders for promotion in the 2024-25 season.
Lincoln has bolstered their squad with seven new players, including defender Tendayi Darikwa and midfielder Tom Bayliss.
These additions are expected to strengthen their squad depth and performance.
Form Guide
Preston North End
Preston's form towards the end of the last season was poor, leading to their failure to secure a playoff spot.
However, the club's decision to keep faith in Ryan Lowe and support him with new signings indicates a potential for improvement.
Lincoln City
Lincoln ended their last season on a high note, showing resilience and consistency.
The strategic signings and the team's performance under Michael Skubala suggest they are on an upward trajectory and ready to challenge for promotion.
Team News
Both managers are expected to rotate their squads significantly throughout the match, given it is a pre-season friendly.
It’s likely that each team will field different lineups in each half to provide ample playing time to all squad members.
Preston North End
New signing Teitur Thordarson is with the squad and could make his debut. Sam Greenwood is another player to watch, expected to add creativity to Preston’s midfield.
Lincoln City
Lincoln’s new recruits, including Darikwa and Bayliss, are likely to feature. Skubala will aim to integrate these new players effectively into his system.
Prediction
Given the context of this pre-season fixture, a low-scoring draw seems a probable outcome.
Both teams are likely to focus on fitness and tactical adjustments rather than pushing for a win at all costs.
Our Prediction: Preston North End 1-1 Lincoln City
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