'That wasn't the way' - Preston North End trio post messages after exits with farewells from loan duo

Loan duo return to parent clubs after their spells while Preston North End man departs

Preston North End defender Patrick Bauer has posted a goodbye message as his six-year stay at Deepdale concludes.

Preston North End's Patrick Bauerplaceholder image
Preston North End's Patrick Bauer | CameraSport - Ian Cook

The Lilywhites were expected to let the German centre-back leave last summer but he ended up having another 12 months in his contract trigggered. Bauer was an important signing in the summer of 2019, when he arrived on a free transfer from Charlton Athletic.

He featured regularly in the starting lineup during his first three seasons but suffered a horrific Achilles injury in December 2020, which ruled him out for eight months. Bauer played 37 games in the 2021/22 campaign but then eight, two and two in the three seasons after.

The number 26 said on X: ‘Obviously that wasn’t the way I wanted to leave, but my time @pnefc has come to and end. Thank you so much to the fans, my teammates & all the staff for the support throughout my time. I wish @pnefc only the best for the future! 🤍’

Loan men say farewell

Aston Villa loan recruit Kaine Kesler-Hayden won PNE’s Player of the Year and endeared himself to the Deepdale faithful. The full-back made 51 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and assisting three. He said: ‘Thank you for everything’ in a post on X, while also speaking in a video posted by PNE’s official account, after the 2-2 draw at Bristol City.

Kesler-Hayden said: ‘Hi everyone. Just want to say I am buzzing that we stayed up today. It is where the club deserves to be, the Championship - and higher. I just want to say I am really grateful for the support that you’ve given me throughout the season. It’s been immense and it’s been a journey, but one that I’ve loved and I’ve loved forever. So, I just want to say thank you... thank you everyone’.

Another defender loaned in was Jayden Meghoma, who arrived from Brentford in the January transfer window. The left-back made 12 appearances for the Lilywhites and wished the club well.

He posted on X: ‘I’ve enjoyed every second of being a Lilywhite! Thank you to the club and most importantly, the fans, for welcoming me into your club. I wish everyone part of @pnefc the best for the future.’

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