Swansea City welcomes Preston North End to Liberty Stadium on Friday evening, aiming for a victory to distance themselves from the Championship relegation battle.
In contrast, despite recent losses, Preston remains in the top half of the table.
Match Preview
Swansea City, led by interim manager Alan Sheehan following Michael Duff’s departure, has collected four points from three games under his charge against Rotherham United, Stoke City, and Middlesbrough.
Despite a loss to Middlesbrough, Swansea aims to stabilize their position as they are only five points clear of the relegation zone, with their home form needing improvement with just two wins in 11 home fixtures this season.
Preston North End, under Ryan Lowe, experienced a recent dip in form with defeats in four of their last six games.
While they bounced back with positive results against Norwich City and Huddersfield Town, a 5-1 thrashing by Watford highlighted their inconsistency.
Facing a tough fixture against Leeds United after this game, Preston seeks to reignite their campaign before a crucial period.
Team News
Sheehan may reintroduce Yannick Bolasie to Swansea’s attack, possibly replacing Jamie Paterson. Liam Walsh could feature in a more advanced role, and Charlie Patino may return to the starting lineup.
Preston, likely to stick with a back three, might see changes made by Lowe, considering options like Duane Holmes and Robbie Brady.
Andrew Hughes is another defensive option, with Preston looking to bounce back after their recent heavy defeat.
Predicted Lineups
Swansea City: (3-4-2-1)
Rushworth;
Darling, Cabango, Humphreys;
Key, Patino, Grimes, Tymon;
Walsh, Bolasie;
Lowe
Preston North End: (3-4-1-2)
Woodman;
Storey, Hughes, Lindsay;
Potts, Browne, Whiteman, Millar;
Holmes;
Osmajic, Keane
Prediction: Swansea City 1-1 Preston North End
Anticipate a closely contested encounter between two sides hungry for points. Despite their recent struggles, both teams will aim to avoid defeat, resulting in a hard-fought draw with few goals.