Preston North End will look to end their six-game winless run in the Championship when they welcome Portsmouth to Deepdale on Saturday. Currently sitting 15th in the table with 44 points, Preston are eager to bounce back after being denied victory by Sunderland’s late equalizer in midweek.
Despite their struggles, Ryan Lowe’s side have proven difficult to beat at home, avoiding defeat in their last 11 league matches at Deepdale. However, their inability to turn draws into wins has been a concern, with four of their last five home games ending in stalemates, including recent encounters against Burnley, Millwall, and Swansea City.
Portsmouth, on the other hand, have seen their recent momentum disrupted following two defeats in their last three games. After a narrow 1-0 loss to Luton Town, Pompey bounced back with an impressive win over league leaders Leeds United. However, they were brought back to reality with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to bottom-placed Plymouth Argyle.
Preston will take confidence from their strong record against Portsmouth, having avoided defeat in their last 10 home league meetings against Pompey since a 5-0 loss in 1973. With a solid defensive display and key players like Emil Riis back in form, the Lilywhites will hope to claim a much-needed victory.
John Mousinho’s side still maintain a seven-point cushion above the relegation zone, but their poor away form is a major concern. Portsmouth have lost eight of their last nine away league matches and will need a strong performance to secure their third away win of the season.
Preston will be without key midfielder Brad Potts, who picked up a hamstring injury against Sunderland. He joins Ali McCann and Jack Whatmough on the sidelines, while Jordan Storey and Milutin Osmajic face late fitness tests.
Portsmouth’s injury crisis continues, with Callum Lang, Paddy Lane, Jacob Farrell, and Ibane Bowat ruled out for the season. Rob Atkinson and Conor Shaughnessy remain sidelined, while Christian Saydee and Jordan Williams are expected to return after the international break.
With Preston’s solid home form and Portsmouth’s struggles on the road, the hosts are well-positioned to claim their first league win since February and move further away from the relegation battle.