Preston North End will host Sheffield United at Deepdale on Friday in the EFL Championship 2025-26 season. The Lilywhites are looking to bounce back after consecutive defeats, having lost 2-1 to West Bromwich Albion and 1-0 to Birmingham City, dropping them to 10th place.
Sheffield United had a poor start to the season, failing to pick up any points in their first five games, which led to the dismissal of Ruben Selles. Former coach Chris Wilder has returned, and the Blades have won three of their last five matches, including a 3-1 comeback victory over Blackburn Rovers in their most recent outing.
Head-to-Head and Key Stats
Friday marks the 125th meeting between the two sides: Preston have 36 wins, Sheffield United 56, and 32 draws.
Preston have won just once in the last 10 encounters and failed to score in five of those games.
Sheffield United have scored 18 goals across the last 10 fixtures.
Sheffield United have the worst attack and third-worst defense in the Championship this season, scoring only seven and conceding 17 in 11 matches.
Prediction
This is a tightly contested fixture, but Preston will hope their home advantage and attacking form can give them a boost. Sheffield United will rely on their historic dominance in the matchup and recent performances to challenge for a result.
Predicted Score: Preston North End 1-1 Sheffield United