After booking their spot in next season’s Championship on the final day, Paul Heckingbottom has started his summer business early.
The Lilywhites confirmed the arrival of Jordan Thompson on Friday afternoon, while Daniel Iversen is closing in on sealing his Deepdale return.
North End have wasted no time in getting their business underway as the head coach prepares for his first summer market.
Although it is still early days, 23 teams have already booked their spot in the Championship next season, with just the play-offs to decide the remaining two spots.
But we’ve taken to the world of technology to predict what the second tier’s final outcome could look like and where PNE will finish.
To do that, we’ve used AI, more specifically X’s Grok tool, to determine what the Championship table could end up looking like on the final day next season.
Here’s where the Lilywhites are predicted to finish.
21. 22nd: Derby County
Reason: Derby struggled in 2024-25 and were predicted to face relegation. Their squad lacks the quality to compete consistently. | Getty Images
22. 23rd: Charlton Athletic
Reason: Charlton may face challenges adapting to the Championship’s pace and physicality. | Getty Images
23. 24th: Blackburn Rovers
Reason: Blackburn’s 2024-25 season was mid-table but their end was really poor. More inconsistent form suggests vulnerability. | Getty Images