Midfielder puts ball in Preston North End's court over contract amid 'really improved' observation

Preston North End midfielder Ryan Ledson is focusing on performing to his best - though his contract situation has been thought about.

Next summer, the 27-year-old sees his deal at Deepdale expire. Ledson has racked up 192 appearances for PNE, since signing from Oxford United in May 2018. Manager Paul Heckingbottom has praised the Liverpudlian and given him the captain’s armband, when Ben Whiteman hasn’t started.

Regular game time hasn’t been a constant during Ledson’s career at North End, but his fondness for the club has always been made clear. The Preston man knows some of the out-of-contract group will end up moving on, but suggested he’d like to extend his stay once more.

“Obviously, it plays on your mind,” said Ledson. “There are a good few of us out of contract but listen, that is up to the club to sort out. All we can do as players is do our job. And, when we are on the pitch, we give everything for this club. It will be up to them whether they sort it out or not.

“I am sure the manager will want to keep who he wants to keep. It is football, isn’t it? If we get to January, we might sign a few players and let a few people go. If so, that’s just what happens, but I am sure everyone will be wanting to stay.”

Ledson was the hero in the Carabao Cup win over Fulham, having captained the previous round at Harrogate Town. Minutes have been coming his way as a substitute in the Championship, so the number 18 was pleased to start Saturday’s win over Coventry City. He has seen plenty of positives from the Heckingbottom era so far and feels firmly part of the boss’ plans.

"Yeah, course," said Ledson. "I have been here a long time; I know how it works. A new manager coming in the door, it is a fresh start for everyone. I obviously played in the cup games, came on in league games and to get my first (Championship) start under him was great. When I get on the pitch, I just want to try and be the best version of me and mainly help the team get three points.

“I think we have really improved. You can see the ideas the gaffer is trying to get across. I think we have been a lot better, especially off the ball, organised and that gives us a good base to attack. I just think we look a lot more confident, on and off the ball - really buying into what he wants. Obviously, results have proven that."