Premier League
England's World Cup run forces Preston to reshuffle pre‑season
[Getty Images] England's progress to the World Cup semi‑final has forced Preston North End to postpone their pre‑season friendly against Chorley. The Championship side had been scheduled to travel to Chorley on Wednesday 15 July, but the match was called off as England will meet Argentina that evening.
England will face Argentina on the same evening, a World Cup semi‑final that takes precedence over club fixtures. Consequently, Preston's visit to Chorley on Wednesday has been cancelled.
Preston will instead begin their pre‑season away at Bamber Bridge on Tuesday 14 July at 19:00 BST. The Lilywhites aim to use the fixture to build fitness before the league campaign.
Deepdale is currently undergoing pitch‑improvement work, meaning no friendlies are scheduled at the stadium for the pre‑season. The club will therefore rely on away matches while the upgrades are completed.
The upgrade also prompted a venue change for Preston's Carabao Cup first‑round tie against Huddersfield on 1 August, which will now be played at Everton Women's Goodison Park. This shift ensures the match can proceed despite the stadium works.
The Lilywhites will launch their new Championship campaign away at Bolton Wanderers on Saturday 15 August at 12:30 BST. The altered pre‑season schedule leaves them with limited home preparation before the season opener.