No player sticks around forever, but some Preston North End departures have been particularly painful to take over the years.
Whether it be moving to a rival, leaving unexpectedly or simply seeking a new challenge, it’s a feeling every PNE fan will have experienced at some stage. But, which players were the hardest to see walk away from Deepdale? We asked you, the North End faithful, on social media and the comments poured in.
There are bound to be more, but here are 17 former Lilywhites who stood out...
13. David Healy
A controversial exit to Leeds United in October 2004, for around £650,000. Healy's reputation with some PNE fans was tarnished, after he was perceived to have clapped the Leeds fans when playing against them for Preston. A fine striker, nonetheless. | KEVIN McGUINNESS
14. David Nugent
One of PNE's best players this century. After two-and-a-half seasons of scoring goals, Portsmouth signed him for £6m. | Donna Clifford
15. Tony Morley
Morley signed as an apprentice with Preston North End in July 1969, before turning professional in August 1972. Burnley signed him four years later for £100,000. | Pinterest
16. Alex Bruce
In total the striker played 363 games for the Lilywhites and scored 157 goals - an incredible record. Bruce left for Newcastle United in 1974 and then, after his second stint, signed for Wigan Athletic in 1983. | Archive