It’s worth noting that this was a pre-season friendly, and these things really aren’t worth getting too het up over. But, anyone who tuned in, or travelled over for - every credit if so - Friday morning’s clash, must’ve had similar thoughts going through their mind come the final whistle at the Pinatar Arena. Preston North End had been beaten 0-1 by Lincoln City; the game was not good and will be forgotten very quickly.
The centre-backs are not naturals at carrying the ball out and passing forwards, but they are honest, committed pros who know how to defend and get by. Ideally, PNE will strengthen there too this summer, but it is on the flanks where help is being cried out for. And it must be concluded that this is not an easy position to recruit for - because Preston are still looking. They have surely missed out on more than they have signed.