Defender Jordan Storey feeling right at home with Preston North End
The former Exeter City man shone at the heart of the defence alongside captain for the night Ben Davies, as the Lilywhites prevailed 2-0 despite playing more than an hour with 10 men.
Ryan Ledson’s red card meant PNE were under the cosh for long periods but the 20-year-old showed composure beyond his years.
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Hide Ad“You’ve got to take your chance when it comes your way,” said Storey, who has started both League Cup wins but is yet to feature in the Championship.
“They are the grounds you want to play at and the games you want to play in when it’s at Elland Road against a big club like Leeds.
“You’ve got to relish those moments.
“Hopefully I’ve given the manager something to think about.
“All I can do is show what I can do and hope it impresses him.
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Hide Ad“I gave it my all on Tuesday and hopefully that gives him something to consider for this Saturday.”
He may have played in Exeter’s League Two play-off final defeat to Coventry at Wembley in May but the prospect admits playing against the early Championship leaders was one of the moments of his career so far.
It was also a big result for a young PNE side as they rebounded after back-to-back defeats on the road in the Championship.
“It’s right up there in terms of the games I’ve played in,” Storey said.
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Hide Ad“You’ve got to give all the lads credit for how they played. We really dug in.
“We looked quite experienced as a group and it shows that age doesn’t really matter. It’s always good to bounce back in games like that and it stands us in really good stead for Saturday now.
“Hopefully we can take this performance into the game against Bolton.”
Like many who arrive at Deepdale, Storey has settled in quickly after what was a big first move away from home for the Yeovil-born defender.
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Hide Ad“Since the first day I came here the lads have been really welcoming and it’s been really easy to settle in,” he said.
“That’s the hardest thing as a young lad, especially for me, I’ve never been away from home.
“It seemed a bit daunting coming and living miles away but I’ve really enjoyed my time up here so far and long may that continue.
“Everyone has been really good helping me with bits about my game and it’s just been nice to get advice and tips off them.
“I sort of don’t want to go home now!”