Preston North End In Numbers: Alan Browne’s deeper role suited him

With Ben Pearson absent through injury, Browne moved into the deep role in front of the back four.

The North End skipper was busy in the 2-0 win, enjoying a 91% passing accuracy rate.

Browne created two chances, one of them a very inviting cross which bounced off Emil Riis’ knee and went wide.

He won both tackles he put in and came out of top of his one challenge in the air.

The Republic of Ireland international made six recovery runs and one interception.

It was a third change of role for Browne this season, with him playing the first game against Swansea City at right-back.

He then moved into his accustomed No.10 role before this appearance further back on the pitch.

PNE manager Alex Neil said: “Alan played that deeper role for me which he has done in the past.

“I remember last season we played Derby and I told him to go and deal with Wayne Rooney. Alan does what he does.”

The QPR game was Browne back at his best – like many of his team-mates it didn’t happen for him against Cardiff last Sunday.

That followed Browne’s involvement with the Republic of Ireland which was eventful. After making a big impact from the bench against Slovakia, he missed a penalty in the shoot-out.

He then had to miss two games due to having to isolate following contact with an Irish player who had tested positive for Covid-19.