Preston placed in the top six on 26 occasions during the 2020/21 season, more than half the campaign. They sat second after their 14th,15th and 16th fixture. But a 3-1 defeat to Cardiff City in the second match back after lockdown saw them drop out of the play-offs and not find their way back there.
Ultimately it was a disappointing end to a season which promised plenty throughout. Especially after a 5-1 thumping of Barnsley and a 1-1 draw at Leeds United during the festive period. Alex Neil is now planning for the forthcoming season.
Click and scroll through for all the latest from around the Championship and involving the Lilywhites.
1. £20m forward wanted by Bielsa
Leeds United have set their sights on Queens Park Rangers flyer Eberechi Eze. Marcelo Bielsa has reportedly pinpointed him as a key signing as the Whites hope to outbid the likes of Spurs, West Ham and Crystal Palace for the 22-year-old. Eze, valued at £20m, hit 14 goals in 46 appearances this past season. (The Sun) Photo: Shaun Botterill
2. Boro enter race for in-demand striker
Wigan Athletic striker Kiefer Moore is set to have his pick of his next club with a number of Championship teams keen. Middlesbrough are the latest to show an interest with reports of talks having taken place already. The Welsh international has also had offers from Millwall and QPR. (Sky Sports) Photo: VLADIMIR SIMICEK
3. Laurent a wanted man
Reading are believed to be in talks with Shrewsbury Town's highly sought after midfielder Josh Laurent. Stoke, Cardiff and Middlesbrough are all keen on the player but Reading have earmarked him as a replacement for John Swift. (Reading Chronicle) Photo: PAUL ELLIS
4. Forest pip Celtic to teenage ace
Nottingham Forest may have missed out on the play-offs but they haven't missed out on the signing of young star Jamie McDonnell. The 16-year-old midfeilder has signed a three-year deal to move to the City Ground. Celtic and West Brom were also keen on the player. (Various) Photo: Nathan Stirk