Frank Christian
The EFL Championship season begins with Sheffield United traveling to Deepdale to face Preston North End.
Relegated from the Premier League, the Blades aim for a quick return, while the Lilywhites seek redemption after a 3-0 loss to Everton in the pre-season.
Both teams come off underwhelming pre-season performances, setting the stage for a competitive opening-day clash.
Here is all you need to know before this game, from streaming options to kickoff times and lineup updates.
How to watch Preston North End vs. Sheffield United
- TV channel: —
- Live stream: Sky Sports+
The match won’t be live on UK TV but can be streamed on Sky Sports+.
Match details
| Date | Friday, August 9 |
| Kick-off Time | 8:00 p.m. BST |
| Venue | Deepdale Stadium |
| Location | Preston, England |
The game is at Deepdale Stadium in Preston on Friday, August 9, at 8:00 p.m. local time.
Expected lineups and team news
Preston’s goalkeeper Freddie Woodman is doubtful due to a muscle injury, while Ali McCann and Layton Stewart will miss the match.
Preston North End likely lineup (5-3-2, right to left): Woodman (GK) — Potts, Storey, Lindsay, Hughes, Brady — Whiteman, Thordarson, Frokjaer — Keane, Riis.
Injured: Finlay Cross-Adair (traffic accident)
Uncertainty surrounds Kieffer Moore and Andre Dozzell’s fitness, but new signings Callum O’Hare and Harrison Burrows are set to feature for Sheffield United. Manager Chris Wilder faces selection challenges following a restructuring in the summer transfer window.
Sheffield United expected lineup (4-4-2, right to left): Davies (GK) — Seriki, Ahmedhodzic, Robinson, Gilchrist — Burrows, Arblaster, Hamer, O’Hare — Moore, Brewster.
Injured: N/A
Match prediction
- Score Prediction: Preston North End 1-2 Sheffield United
Sheffield United seems poised for a strong showing with a deep squad and quality players. The pressure is on Chris Wilder for a swift return to the Premier League, and the team’s lineup suggests they have what it takes.
Preston’s recent struggles and home form may work in favor of Sheffield United. The addition of new talents O’Hare, Moore, and Burrows is expected to boost United’s performance. If they carry their form from pre-season, a positive season start looks likely.
