Struggling Preston North End sack Heckingbottom

Preston North End have sacked Paul Heckingbottom with the Lilywhites second bottom of the Championship after six defeats in seven games.

Heckingbottom was appointed in August 2004 and took charge of 109 games but has overseen just five wins in 27 league games since the start of January.

Their latest loss came at Deepdale on Saturday as they were beaten 1-0 by Lincoln City as the final whistle was greeted with boos and jeers.

A club statement said: "[The club] have taken the decision to part company with Paul Heckingbottom.

"Football is a results business and despite significant investment in the playing squad since Paul joined, the results during 2026 and the start of this current campaign have not been acceptable.

"Paul leaves us with our thanks and best wishes. His professionalism and work ethic during his time with us have been second to none."

Assistant Stuart McCall has also left the club while coach Jason Euell has been placed in interim charge with a trip to QPR looming on Saturday before the three-week international break follows.