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.
5. Monk wants Murphy
Garry Monk is eager to bring Jacob Murphy back to Sheffield Wednesday after a successful loan spell from Newcastle United. The 25-year-old scored nine goals in 39 league appearances. (Various) Photo: Alex Livesey
6. Zlatan speaks on future
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was coy on his future when asked. The Swedish legend has been linked with a move to Leeds United but is still with AC Milan. He said: “I still have three games, still 10 days, nobody said anything to me and I don’t expect anything else." (Sky Sport Italia) Photo: Alessandro Sabattini
7. Key Preston figure departs
John Kay is set to depart Preston at the end of the month. He has been at the club since 2014 and his chief executive role will be "absorbed" by staff at the club. (LEP) Photo: Ross Kinnaird
8. Hughton set for Bristol City job
Chris Hughton is set to take over as the new Bristol City head coach. The experienced boss has been in talks with the club over replacing Lee Johnson. (Sky Sports) Photo: Jordan Mansfield