The Championship season kicks off and norwich are the visitors for the first day at Deepdale. The Preston fans expect more grit from the midfield this year but nothing special is expected in terms of promotion chasing.
Preston North End Team News:
Henderson is expected to ine up in goal ahead of Lonergan.
Hill is a dead cert at left back whilst Grezza is expected to stay at right back despite the arrival of Billy Jones. Mawene and Chilvers, who both signed new contracts this week should partner in central defence.
Pugh is expected to feature on the left and Whaley on the right. Carter could make his debut in for the injured McKenna lining up with Nicholls in central midfield.
Hawley and Ormerod are likely to partner up front with Mellor and Agyemang both injured.
Player to watch: Darren Carter
Expected to make his debut after signing on thursday evening, a lot of eyes will be on the youngster as he aims to fill McKenna’s boots. Norwich were interested in the player but Preston beat them to the signing.
Norwich City Team News:
Norwich have suffered from a food poisoning scare whilst at a pre-season barbeque but it is unknown who will feature or not. However Darren Huckerby and Chris Brown are definetly out.
Player to watch: Jamie cureton
Last season’s Championship top-scorer joined his former club Norwich this summer and many people will be eager to see if he can reproduce his good form.
Match Facts & Stats
This fixture last season got Preston 3 points after a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from Pergl and Dichio.
Norwich haven’t beat Preston at Deepdale since September 2002.
In 32 league matches, Preston have won 13, Norwich 10 and their have been 9 draws.
Match Prediction:
1-0 to Preston in a tight affair.
Next Fixtures:
Preston vs Morecambe – Deepdale – 14/8/07 – 19:45
Norwich vs Barnet – Carrow road – 14/8/07 – 19:45
