David Unsworth fires transfer advice to Preston North End loan star already linked with Sheffield United
The forward has had an excellent loan spell at PNE from Aston Villa
David Unsworth feels Lewis Dobbin should strongly consider a return to Preston North End, if a deal became possible.
The Aston Villa loan man has been a shining light in the Lilywhites’ attack this season, scoring 10 goals across all competitions and providing nine assists. Unsworth worked with Dobbin during his days at Everton as a youngster; this summer he will return to parent club Villa, whom he joined in June 2024.
Dobbin hasn’t featured for the first team yet but, with two years left to run on his deal, hopes the Premier League side have been impressed by his year at PNE. The 23-year-old wants to play at the highest level possible and will no doubt have plenty of suitors this summer, but Unsworth passed on some words of advice last weekend.
Speaking on BBC Lancashire post-match, he said: "I think he has found a home. He has had certain loan moves, he's had a big move from Everton and never quite hit it off anywhere. I think he has found a home and I hope he can stay.
“I hope they can do some sort of deal. We know him, he is playing with confidence out there. He took his goal really well. When you find a home, you've got to stay, haven't you? You cannot always keep searching for the next club and the next club. Find a home, be a star, get them promoted... I hope Lewis Dobbin can be a Preston player next year."
’I can’t give enough credit’
“The whole point of me coming here was to leave a better player than I came,” said Dobbin post-match, last weekend. “I think I've definitely done that and I can't give enough credit to the fans and the staff here that have helped me develop this season. I’ve really enjoyed it and I look forward to next week.
“I think it's pretty obvious it's been my most productive loan. I'm definitely playing some of the best football I've played in my career so far. I think being closer to the goal and around the box is my game. So, I think once I get in those positions, I'm as sharp as anyone in this league. It’s been good, and one more game still to go.”