Get a preview of the exciting match of Bristol City vs Preston North End. Check out the team news, playing 11, and our prediction.
In the eagerly anticipated kick-off of the 2023-24 Championship season, Bristol City is set to clash with Preston North End at the historic Ashton Gate stadium. This encounter holds immense significance as both teams seek to establish their dominance early in the campaign.
The previous season witnessed a closely fought battle between Bristol City and Preston North End, with a mere four points separating the two sides. Preston secured a respectable 12th-place finish, while Bristol City found themselves in the 14th position, reflecting the fierce competition within the Championship.
Bristol City vs Preston North End Match Preview
Bristol City’s performance last season was marred by inconsistency, ultimately relegating them to a mid-table position. However, under the stewardship of Nigel Pearson, the team is poised for a change in trajectory. Despite a comfortable 15-point buffer from relegation, Bristol City’s 10-point deficit from the sixth place underscored the need for improvement.
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The saga surrounding Alex Scott’s future adds an intriguing layer to Bristol City’s narrative. Depending on whether Bournemouth meets Scott’s £25 million valuation, his potential departure could impact the team’s dynamics. Nevertheless, Bristol City has reason to be pleased with their summer transfer activity.
The acquisitions of Robert Dickie, Rob McCrorie, Haydon Roberts, and Jason Knight have fortified the team’s starting lineup and bolstered squad depth. Notably, Bristol City’s unblemished record in pre-season, although against opponents from lower leagues, demonstrates their readiness for the Championship.
Preston North End’s manager, Ryan Lowe, faces a similar challenge of revitalizing his team’s performance. After faltering under pressure during the previous season, Lowe’s strategic moves in the transfer market have generated excitement. Notable signings include Liverpool duo Calvin Ramsey and Layton Stewart, along with the promising Mads Frokjaer-Jensen.
However, Preston’s recent on-field performance has been lackluster, with just one victory in their last five friendlies. Lowe’s emphasis on improvement is evident, particularly following goalless draws against Fleetwood Town and Stockport County.
Bristol City vs Preston North End Team News
As Bristol City prepares to face Preston North End, potential lineup changes are in the offing. Despite a victory against Portsmouth in their final friendly, the team’s seven substitutions at halftime suggest alterations for the upcoming match.
Anticipate seeing Matty James and Andreas Weimann making their way into the starting lineup, potentially displacing Andy King and Jason Knight. Haydon Roberts might start from the bench. On the flanks, the battle for starting positions involves Mark Sykes, Harry Cornick, and Sam Bell.
Preston North End’s defensive configuration may see Patrick Bauer returning to the back three, replacing Bambo Diaby. The left-wing back position is a decision between Greg Cunningham and Kian Best. The remainder of the lineup is likely to remain consistent, unless Ryan Ledson or Duane Holmes gets the nod in midfield.
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Bristol City vs Preston North End Possible Starting Lineups
Bristol City:
- O’Leary; Tanner, Vyner, Dickie, Pring; Scott, James, Weimann; Cornick, Wells, Bell
Preston North End:
- Woodman; Storey, Bauer, Hughes; Potts, McCann, Browne, Frokjaer-Jensen, Cunningham; Woodburn, Keane
Bristol City vs Preston North End Match Prediction
In this exciting opener, our prediction leans towards a closely contested match, culminating in a 1-1 draw between Bristol City and Preston North End. Both teams have made substantial improvements in the summer transfer window, and the overall sentiment is that they have strengthened their squads. While a draw seems likely, the possibility of Bristol City securing a late-stage victory cannot be discounted.
There is more different information on Germany betting exchange.