Preston - Blackburn

Preston North End face a daunting challenge as they look to arrest a worrying slide in form that has seen them suffer four consecutive defeats across all competitions. The hosts welcome Blackburn Rovers to Deepdale on 5 September 2026 for this matchday 5 Championship encounter, desperate to find a spark after a heavy loss to Bristol City earlier this month. With Alistair McCann sidelined through injury, the expected XI led by Jusef Erabi and Delano Burgzorg must find a way to tighten a defence that has leaked multiple goals in recent weeks.

Blackburn arrive looking to recover their own momentum following a goalless draw against Lincoln City. While Tom Atcheson misses out due to suspension, the visitors will lean on the experience of Sam Morsy and Todd Cantwell to control the midfield. Recent history favors the visitors, who claimed victory in their last three league meetings with Preston, including a 1-0 win in February 2026.