Preston North End sacks manager Paul Heckingbottom after poor start

Preston North End has terminated the contract of manager Paul Heckingbottom following a difficult start to the Championship season. The club currently sits second from the bottom of the league table after suffering six defeats in its opening seven matches. The decision follows a 1-0 home loss to Lincoln City on Saturday at Deepdale, a result that prompted audible frustration from supporters. Heckingbottom had been in the role since August 2024, but the club cited unacceptable results throughout 2026 as the primary reason for his departure. Assistant manager Stuart McCall has also left the club as part of the coaching staff shake-up. Coach Jason Euell has been appointed to lead the team on an interim basis, starting with an upcoming fixture against QPR before the league enters a three-week international break.

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• 2:10 PMBBC Sport — Struggling Preston North End sack Heckingbottom