The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Preston North End FC as they aim to build on their recent successes and push for promotion to the Premier League. Under the guidance of their astute manager and with a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to compete at the highest level. This season’s roster boasts a mix of homegrown players, shrewd signings, and strategic loan deals, ensuring depth and quality across all positions. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the squad, examining each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team. From goalkeepers to forwards, every individual brings unique qualities that make Preston North End a formidable force in the Championship.
Goalkeepers
Freddie Woodman
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Newcastle United, Swansea City (loan), Aberdeen (loan), Kilmarnock (loan)
Transfer Fee: £2.5 million (2022)
Freddie Woodman has established himself as one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in the Championship. A product of Newcastle United’s academy, Woodman gained valuable experience through loan spells at Swansea City, where he was instrumental in their playoff campaigns. Known for his quick reflexes, commanding presence in the box, and exceptional distribution, Woodman has been a cornerstone of Preston’s defense since his arrival. His leadership and ability to organize the backline have earned him the captain’s armband on multiple occasions.
Cornelius van der Hart
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, FC Emmen, SC Cambuur
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
A seasoned goalkeeper with a wealth of experience in the Eredivisie, van der Hart joined Preston as a free agent to provide competition for Woodman. His agility and shot-stopping ability have made him a dependable backup option. Van der Hart’s calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Preston’s tactical philosophy.
James Pradic
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Preston North End Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A rising star in Preston’s youth setup, Pradic has been promoted to the first team as the third-choice goalkeeper. At just 19 years old, he has shown immense potential during his time in the academy, earning plaudits for his composure and shot-stopping ability. While he is yet to make his senior debut, Pradic is seen as a future prospect for the club.
Defenders
Jordan Storey
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Exeter City
Transfer Fee: £750,000 (2018)
A towering center-back, Storey has been a mainstay in Preston’s defense since his move from Exeter City. Known for his aerial dominance, tackling precision, and ability to read the game, Storey has developed into one of the Championship’s most consistent defenders. His leadership qualities and commitment to the cause have made him a fan favorite.
Liam Lindsay
Nationality: Scottish
Former Clubs: Partick Thistle, Barnsley, Stoke City
Transfer Fee: £2 million (2021)
Lindsay’s physicality and no-nonsense defending have been crucial to Preston’s backline. The Scottish international brings a wealth of experience from his time in both the Championship and Scottish Premiership. His ability to win duels and clear danger has made him an indispensable part of the squad.
Andrew Hughes
Nationality: Welsh
Former Clubs: Newport County, Portsmouth, Peterborough United
Transfer Fee: £500,000 (2018)
Hughes is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and left-back. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to contribute to attacks make him a valuable asset. Hughes’ consistency and professionalism have earned him a regular starting spot over the years.
Greg Cunningham
Nationality: Irish
Former Clubs: Manchester City, Bristol City, Cardiff City
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
A veteran left-back, Cunningham returned to Preston for a second spell in 2021. His experience and defensive solidity have been vital, particularly in high-pressure situations. Cunningham’s leadership and ability to mentor younger players have also been invaluable.
Jack Whatmough
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Portsmouth, Wigan Athletic
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Whatmough joined Preston after impressing at Wigan Athletic. A composed and technically gifted center-back, he excels in building play from the back. His ability to intercept passes and maintain possession under pressure has added a new dimension to Preston’s defense.
Brad Potts
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Blackpool, Barnsley
Transfer Fee: £1.5 million (2019)
Primarily a right-back, Potts is known for his energy and attacking contributions. His ability to overlap and deliver accurate crosses has made him a key player in Preston’s system. Potts’ versatility allows him to slot into midfield when required.
Kian Best
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Preston North End Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A promising young left-back, Best has risen through the ranks to earn a place in the first team. His pace, technical ability, and defensive awareness have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best full-backs. Best is seen as a long-term prospect for the club.
Midfielders
Alan Browne
Nationality: Irish
Former Clubs: Cork City
Transfer Fee: £50,000 (2014)
Browne is the heartbeat of Preston’s midfield. A dynamic box-to-box player, he combines tenacity with technical ability. His leadership as club captain and knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a legend at Deepdale.
Ben Whiteman
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Sheffield United, Doncaster Rovers
Transfer Fee: £1.8 million (2021)
Whiteman is a deep-lying playmaker known for his passing range and set-piece expertise. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and break up opposition play has been instrumental in Preston’s midfield.
Ryan Ledson
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Everton, Oxford United
Transfer Fee: £750,000 (2018)
A combative midfielder, Ledson is renowned for his work rate and tackling ability. His energy and commitment make him a vital cog in Preston’s engine room.
Ali McCann
Nationality: Northern Irish
Former Clubs: St Johnstone
Transfer Fee: £1.2 million (2021)
McCann is a versatile midfielder capable of playing both defensively and in advanced roles. His technical skills and tactical intelligence have made him a key player since his arrival.
Mads Frøkjær-Jensen
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: Odense Boldklub
Transfer Fee: £1.5 million (2023)
A creative midfielder with an eye for goal, Frøkjær-Jensen has added flair to Preston’s attack. His dribbling ability and vision have made him a fan favorite.
Duane Holmes
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Huddersfield Town, Derby County, Scunthorpe United
Transfer Fee: £750,000 (2023)
Holmes is a versatile attacking midfielder known for his pace and direct running. His ability to create chances and score goals has been a valuable addition to the squad.
Noah Mawene
Nationality: French
Former Clubs: Preston North End Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A highly-rated young midfielder, Mawene has impressed with his composure and technical ability. His potential has earned him a place in the first-team setup.
Forwards
Emil Riis Jakobsen
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: Randers FC
Transfer Fee: £1.2 million (2020)
Riis is a powerful striker with a keen eye for goal. His physicality and finishing ability have made him Preston’s leading marksman in recent seasons.
Will Keane
Nationality: Irish
Former Clubs: Manchester United, Hull City, Wigan Athletic
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Keane is a versatile forward capable of playing as a striker or in a supporting role. His experience and goal-scoring prowess have been crucial for Preston.
Layton Stewart
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Liverpool
Transfer Fee: £500,000 (2023)
Stewart is a young striker with immense potential. His pace and finishing ability have made him an exciting prospect for the future.
Milutin Osmajić
Nationality: Montenegrin
Former Clubs: Cadiz, Vizela
Transfer Fee: £2 million (2023)
Osmajić is a dynamic forward known for his work rate and ability to link play. His versatility and goal-scoring ability have added depth to Preston’s attack.
Finlay Cross-Adair
Nationality: Scottish
Former Clubs: Preston North End Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A promising young striker, Cross-Adair has shown glimpses of his potential in the academy. His physicality and finishing ability make him one to watch.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Preston North End squad is a well-balanced mix of experience, youth, and talent. With a solid defensive foundation, a creative and industrious midfield, and a potent attacking lineup, the team is well-equipped to challenge for promotion. Each player brings unique qualities that contribute to the collective strength of the squad. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with passion, determination, and the pursuit of glory. Preston North End FC is ready to make its mark.
