Preston vs Blackburn - Championship

There is a notable edge to this Championship fixture. When Preston meet Blackburn at Deepdale on September 5, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

Both camps will view the Championship meeting at Deepdale as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. Consistency has eluded Preston in recent weeks, with DLLWL in their last five and a win rate of 32.61% that tells of an up-and-down campaign. Blackburn have blown hot and cold, DWLLD across their last five and a season win rate of 30.43%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Preston average 0.98 per game to Blackburn's 1.2, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Preston and Blackburn have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) According to Fabrizio Romano, Man United 'are not proceeding' with a move for the Brighton midfielder.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman C. Larin, whose 7 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. St Johnstone twice gave up a lead before storming back to edge a seven-goal thriller on their Scottish Premiership return at home to Kilmarnock.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".