PNE newcomer Jordan Storey aims to make a big impression at Deepdale

It was perhaps appropriate that Jordan Storey's first two days training with Preston were done in the middle of the current heatwave.
Jordan StoreyJordan Storey
Jordan Storey

News of PNE’s interest in him first reached the young centre-back when he was soaking up the sun in the Greek islands.

Three weeks on from his move from Exeter City to Deepdale being completed, Storey joined his team-mates for the start of pre-season training on Thursday.

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The soaring temperatures at Springfields has certainly made the last couple of days a testing introduction.

“When the temperature is 30 degrees it makes it that bit tougher,” Storey told the Post.

“Pre-season is never easy but it’s so important to get the work done which will get you through the season.

“We eased in on the first day back in, we did some runs but also some skill-based drills and possession work.

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“It wasn’t too stressful but the work will quickly build-up as we go along.

“Everyone here has been very welcoming which really helps on you first day when you’re going into a new club.

“This is a friendly place and I’m sure I’ll settle in quickly.”

North End made their move for 20-year-old Storey earlier in the month.

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He’d caught the eye after forcing his way into Exeter’s first-team in February and staying in it right the way through to the League Two play-off final at Wembley.

That breakthrough into the Grecians side and the move to Preston has been something of a whirlwind.

Storey said: “The move here came out of the blue.

“I got a call when I was on holiday in Zante and it all went from there.

“After the holiday I came up here for talks and everything got done.

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“The stadium was really impressive when they showed me round.

“I started last season on loan at Dorchester, playing in the seventh tier.

“After going back to Exeter I took my chance there and made a lot of progress.

“I had the experience of playing at Wembley which I will never forget because it is not every day that happens.

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“This is a big move and now that I’ve started training it’s time to get my head down, work hard and get myself into the manager’s plans.”

Storey , who will wear the No.14 shirt at PNE, was able to tap into some advice from one of his Exeter team-mates who made the reverse move a few seasons ago.

“I played with Lee Holmes at Exeter, he was here for a few seasons and enjoyed it,” said Storey.

“Hopefully I can do well here and help Preston get to where they want to be.

“It’s a big learning curve but I’m ready for it.”

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