The curious case of North End's called-off friendly clash against Spanish giants Barcelona
North End were due to face Barcelona in a behind-closed-doors friendly at St George’s Park
The football world has reacted with surprise after Preston’s scheduled friendly clash with Spanish giants Barcelona was called off.
The pre-season game, which the Lancashire Post revealed last month, was due to take place at St George’s Park behind closed doors today.
However, the four-time European champions have decided to call the fixture off as it is believed North End were expected to field a very youthful-looking side due to a number of injury issues affecting their squad.
North End have only around 13 to 14 senior players available at the moment.
They played Stockport County on Saturday, losing 1-0, with boss Paul Heckingbottom able to field an experienced line-up at Edgeley Park.
Unfortunately, an injury to Andrija Vukcevic forced him off in the first half.
Heckingbottom was also without captain Ben Whiteman who is looking to force through a move to Wrexham.
North End have been tight-lipped about the circumstances surrounding the Barcelona match which ultimately would have been a practice match in front of no spectators.
They are due to begin their season at home on Saturday against Huddersfield Town in the Carabao Cup, with their Championship campaign to start the week after away to Bolton Wanderers.