Wrexham’s remarkable debut campaign in the Championship has turned more than a few heads. Under the guidance of manager Phil Parkinson, the Red Dragons have defied expectations and arrive at Deepdale this afternoon aiming to stretch their unbeaten league run to nine matches.
Their most recent result, a dramatic 1-1 draw against Blackburn Rovers, secured by a stoppage-time equaliser from Max Cleworth, reflected the resilience and momentum that have defined their current run of form. Wrexham are quickly establishing themselves as more than just a feel-good story, and they now face another stern test against in-form Preston North End, who themselves are looking upward in the Championship standings.
The match kicks off at 3:00 PM today, Saturday 6 December 2025, at Deepdale, and it promises to be a contest rich in narrative and competitive edge.
What Is the Current Form and Status of Preston North End?
Preston North End is currently sitting fifth in the Championship, responded positively to a run of three games without a win by defeating Sheffield Wednesday 3-2 last weekend. It was a spirited performance that saw them rediscover attacking rhythm, and they’ll look to build on that result against a confident Wrexham side.
Manager Paul Heckingbottom will be pleased with the return to fitness of Andrija Vukcevic and Harrison Armstrong, both of whom are likely to be included in the matchday squad. The midfield and attack also receive a boost, with Mads Frøkjær-Jensen scoring in the previous match and now pushing for a starting role. Striker Michael Smith is also expected to return to the starting eleven, adding experience and presence up front.
While Preston remain a structured and disciplined side, they’ve shown greater attacking intent in recent weeks. The balance between maintaining defensive solidity and exploiting Wrexham’s backline could be key to today’s result.
How Are Wrexham Preparing for This Lancashire Challenge?
Wrexham’s journey in the Championship has gone from novelty to legitimacy. The club, buoyed by both passionate local support and a growing global fanbase, has transitioned seamlessly from League Two to second-tier football, and now finds itself on the cusp of a historic unbeaten run.
The 1-1 draw against Blackburn was emblematic of their fighting spirit, and today’s clash presents another opportunity to make a statement. However, Wrexham are not without their injury concerns. They will again be without the services of Lewis Brunt, Elliot Lee, and Issa Kabore, the latter still recovering from an injury sustained while on loan from Manchester City.
On a more optimistic note, Danny Ward, Andy Cannon, and Jay Rodriguez are nearing full fitness and could be included in the squad, although they are unlikely to start. Meanwhile, Josh Windass, who was a substitute last time out, is expected to start in midfield in place of Lewis O’Brien. Another midfield change could see George Dobson included from the off, potentially displacing either Matty James or Ben Sheaf.
Phil Parkinson is expected to stick with his preferred system, relying on wing-backs and a strong front pairing to create chances in transition.
What Are the Predicted Starting Lineups for Preston and Wrexham?
Both teams are expected to field strong elevens, with several key players returning and others pushing for inclusion.
Preston North End Predicted Lineup
| Position | Player |
| GK | Daniel Iversen |
| DEF | Jordan Storey |
| DEF | Liam Lindsay |
| DEF | Andrew Hughes |
| WB | Odeluga Offiah |
| WB | Thierry Small |
| MID | Ben Whiteman |
| MID | Alfie Devine |
| AM | Mads Frøkjær-Jensen |
| FW | Lewis Dobbin |
| FW | Michael Smith |
With Iversen back between the posts and Frøkjær-Jensen adding creativity, Preston are set up to take control in midfield and push for early dominance.
Wrexham Predicted Lineup
| Position | Player |
| GK | Arthur Okonkwo |
| DEF | Max Cleworth |
| DEF | Dan Scarr |
| DEF | Dominic Hyam |
| WB | Ryan Longman |
| WB | James McClean |
| MID | Matty James |
| MID | George Dobson |
| AM | Josh Windass |
| FW | Nathan Broadhead |
| FW | Kieffer Moore |
Wrexham’s strength lies in their physical presence and pace, with McClean and Longman offering width while Moore provides a clear target in the box.
Which Key Players Could Influence the Result Today?
This encounter brings several fascinating individual matchups, with both sides boasting players in good form.
For Preston, Mads Frøkjær-Jensen is likely to be a central figure. His goal against Sheffield Wednesday underlined his ability to arrive in dangerous areas and finish clinically. Michael Smith, returning from a short lay-off, adds aerial strength and experience, which could be critical against a tall Wrexham backline.
Wrexham’s key threat will undoubtedly come from Kieffer Moore, whose hold-up play and movement off the ball have unsettled defenders throughout the season. Behind him, Josh Windass will need to link midfield and attack efficiently, while Max Cleworth must lead the defence with composure, particularly after his heroics in the previous match.
In midfield, the contest between Ben Whiteman and George Dobson could dictate which team enjoys greater control in possession.
How Do the Teams Compare Statistically Going into This Match?
| Category | Preston North End | Wrexham |
| League Position | 5th | 9th |
| Last Match Result | 3-2 win vs Sheff Wed | 1-1 draw vs Blackburn |
| Current Unbeaten Run | 1 match | 8 matches |
| Goals Scored (Last 5) | 8 | 7 |
| Key Returnees | Vukcevic, Armstrong | Windass, Cannon (bench) |
| Formation Likely | 3-4-2-1 | 3-5-2 |
Despite the points gap, both teams come into this fixture in decent form, with Wrexham showing greater consistency in recent weeks.
What Is the Likely Outcome of the Match?
On paper, Preston have the advantage. They are higher in the table, playing at home, and have several important players returning to full fitness. Their ability to create chances from wide positions and control central areas should serve them well.
However, Wrexham have demonstrated time and again this season that they are not intimidated by the opposition’s pedigree or stadium. Their fightback against Blackburn is just the latest evidence of a squad that believes it belongs in the Championship.
A draw would not be surprising, but Preston may have just enough firepower to break Wrexham’s streak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which players are missing for Wrexham today?
Wrexham are without Lewis Brunt, Elliot Lee, and Issa Kabore due to injury, while Danny Ward and Andy Cannon are not expected to start.
Are Preston at full strength?
Preston are near full strength with the return of Vukcevic and Armstrong. Mads Frøkjær-Jensen and Michael Smith are also available and likely to start.
Who is expected to score for either team?
Michael Smith and Mads Frøkjær-Jensen are the likely threats for Preston. For Wrexham, Kieffer Moore and Nathan Broadhead offer the most goal threat.
What’s the expected formation for both sides?
Preston may line up in a 3-4-2-1 or 3-5-2, while Wrexham are expected to stick with their reliable 3-5-2 formation.
Has Wrexham played Preston recently?
There has not been a recent competitive meeting between the two. Their last encounter was a friendly in 2014, which Preston won 3-1.
Is today’s match available to watch live?
While local broadcasting rights vary, highlights and updates will be available via the BBC and club websites.
How important is this match in the Championship table?
Very important. Preston are fighting to stay in the top six, while Wrexham are looking to break into the playoff positions with another positive result.
