Wrexham vs Preston North End: Prediction, Team News & Lineups Preview

On December 25, Wrexham is set to host Preston North End at Racecourse Ground. This Championship clash holds significance for both teams as they approach the end of the year. A victory for Preston would help them secure a place in the top six, while Wrexham aims to climb the league standings.

Match Preview: Wrexham vs Preston North End

Wrexham currently sits 13th in the Championship, with 31 points. They recently showcased their resilience, coming from behind to defeat Sheffield United 5-3 on Boxing Day. This marked their first win in six matches, a much-needed boost as they attempt to break into the playoff positions.

Despite their recent triumph, Wrexham has struggled defensively, having conceded at least two goals in four consecutive matches. They are five points shy of sixth-placed Bristol City and need to establish a more consistent winning form to solidify their promotion ambitions.

Preston North End’s Current Form

Preston North End finds themselves in fifth place, six points ahead of Wrexham. Their last match concluded in a goalless draw against Stoke City, which provided them with their first clean sheet in ten outings. However, scoring has been an issue, with the team netting one goal or less in seven of their last nine matches.

• Defensive Record: Joint second-best in the division, conceding only 23 goals.
• Scoring Issues: Ranked low in goals scored, with only 28 goals in 23 matches.
• Unbeaten Streak: They are currently on a seven-match unbeaten run, though five of those have ended in draws.

Wrexham and Preston faced each other earlier this month, ending in a 1-1 draw. The last EFL Cup meeting saw Wrexham triumph 3-2 in August. A victory for Wrexham on Monday would mean extending their unbeaten home run to seven matches.

Team News

Wrexham’s manager Phil Parkinson may opt to start forwards Josh Windass, Kieffer Moore, and Nathan Broadhead, given the recent improvement in their offensive play. However, midfielder Andy Cannon will miss the match due to a knee injury.

Defensively, Wrexham may feature a back three of Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, and Callum Doyle, as they cope with injuries to Aaron James and Lewis Brunt.

Preston’s lineup is expected to include centre-backs Odeluga Offiah, Jordan Storey, and Andrew Hughes. With key player Robbie Brady unavailable, forwards Michael Smith and Daniel Jebbison may find themselves under pressure to score.

Predicted Lineups

Match Prediction

Given Preston’s recent scoring difficulties, Wrexham may capitalize on their home advantage. The prediction leans towards a 2-1 victory for Wrexham, inspired by their attacking depth and motivation to claim the full three points.