Long pass tactic is effective for Preston

In the past Alex Neil has used a very possession-heavy, short passing style to accompany his high-press approach.

In recent months, though, he has opted as much for a direct approach as any other style.

There are times where it has worked perfectly and times where it has left PNE with their backs against the wall as the ball keeps being returned their way.

As a general rule, whether playing long or short passes, North End are a direct side.

They like to get the ball forward and try to give the opposition something to think about.

According to WhoScored’s data, the Lilywhites average the most long passes per goal in the division.

They currently average 83 long passes per goal, 79 at home and 88 away.

This doesn’t meant that PNE rely heavily on the long pass, as their number of short passes are middle of the road and they average more possession than their opposition..

But it may point to its effectiveness.

Alex Neil has recently allowed Jayden Stockley to leave on loan, a targetman, and replaced him with Ched Evans.

There is a clear height discrepancy there and already there seems to be more emphasis on hitting the focal point’s feet and getting around him.

Jayson Molumby’s runs from the No.10 spot to support have also been increasingly important.

We may be seeing a change in approach.

The No.9 spot has almost always worked as a foil in Neil’s system since he’s been at PNE, but the way he utilises them might be changing.

The stats won’t ever paint a full picture, certain games may skew them and not do PNE justice, that’s just how it goes.

With goals generally at a premium at home, it seems going long isn’t very conducive to goals.

This squad is certainly capable of the cute and clever short stuff around the box, as Scott Sinclair nearly proved against Rotherham.

Time will tell however if the trend continues and if enough is enough for Neil as he adapts to his new-look squad.