Preston North End have appointed Paul Heckingbottom as their new manager.
The 47-year-old’s appointment comes ahead of their home match against Luton Town on Saturday, marking the third game of the 2024/25 Championship season. Ryan Lowe’s tenure ended last Monday, and interim manager Mike Marsh has since stepped down after two matches.
Preston North End acted quickly to create a shortlist, conduct interviews, and make the appointment. Heckingbottom has been out of work since December 2023, following his departure from Sheffield United, where he achieved automatic promotion the previous season. He has also managed Barnsley, Leeds United, and Hibernian. Joining him will be assistant manager Stuart McCall.
Heckingbottom expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m really excited about this opportunity, eager to get started. It’s a club I know well for many reasons and a league I’m familiar with, making it an easy decision. Experience is crucial, and understanding the players and the league is vital for success. Our short-term goal is to get back on track, and long-term, we aim to be a highly competitive team in this league. We want to play in a way that excites the fans and brings out the best in the players, which can be very powerful.”
Director Peter Ridsdale commented: “I’m thrilled that Paul Heckingbottom is joining us as first-team manager. We quickly decided that Paul was the right choice to lead us forward and finalized everything over the weekend.
“We met on Sunday, completed the details late last night, and he’s here today, ready to begin. I’m confident about the season with Paul and Stuart McCall in charge, and I believe Preston North End fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.”
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