Referee confirmed for Preston North End vs Wrexham in first Deepdale return since Birmingham City drama
PNE are next in action this Saturday at home to Wrexham
Lewis Smith will be back at Deepdale this weekend to oversee Preston North End’s home clash against Wrexham.
It will be the referee’s third PNE match this campaign, having officiated their 1-0 away win at Derby County and 0-1 home defeat to Birmingham City. In the latter, Phil Neumann’s first half goal proved to be the difference - one which sparked fume among the Deepdale club due to handball claims.
Post-match, manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “I wasn't going to say anything about it all, but when I'm looking back I feel I have to defend the club and the players and the fans. It's scandalous really.
“You're looking at the first free kick, Odel (Offiah) wins the ball, comes away with the ball and (they’re) saying he's caught Keshi Anderson in the face with his hand. They put the ball in; he scores with his arm.”
It will be Smith’s 21st game this campaign and first Wrexham fixture. He has been in charge of Championship contests since the 2022/23 season and made his debut on the Premier League stage in 2024.
This year, the Lancastrian has shown 63 yellow cards in 20 matches and sent three players off in total. His games have come in the Championship, Carabao Cup, National League North and National League South. Smith will be assisted by Alex James and Richard West on Saturday afternoon. Fourth official at Deepdale is Sebastian Stockbridge.
North End head into the game sitting fifth in the table after 18 games. The Lilywhites came from behind to beat Sheffield Wednesday, 3-2, at Hillsborough last weekend. Wrexham, meanwhile, occupy 10th spot in the division.
Max Cleworth scored a 95th minute equaliser at home to Blackburn Rovers in their previous outing. Phil Parkinson’s team are unbeaten in their last eight Championship encounters, winning four and drawing four.