Preston North End lose to Watford as Andrija Vukcevic suffers back injury

Preston North End sustained a 2-1 defeat against Watford in their latest Championship fixture. Following the match, manager Paul Heckingbottom confirmed that defender Andrija Vukcevic was forced off the pitch due to a back injury sustained after a challenge in the penalty area. The manager clarified that the substitution was injury-related rather than tactical. Heckingbottom also addressed his team selection, explaining that changes were made to introduce fresh legs and manage player fitness during a congested schedule. This included giving Johnny Kenny a start to increase his game time and readiness. Additionally, the manager noted that adjustments in the attack were aimed at maintaining sufficient pace throughout the contest.

• 11:25 PMYahoo Sports — Preston boss reveals injury worry after another Championship defeat – and explains decision to make changes