Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom has outlined his expectations for loanee Delano Burgzorg and delivered a positive update on Brad Potts's fitness ahead of Tuesday's Championship fixture. The Lilywhites travel to Vicarage Road to face Watford on September 8, looking to build on their recent win over Blackburn Rovers as they sit 23rd in the table with three points from five games.
Heckingbottom's comments, reported by the Lancashire Evening Post, come with his squad navigating a demanding schedule of seven matches in 22 days. The manager highlighted the importance of the ten new signings made during the transfer window, which closed last week, in providing the necessary depth for this period.
What has Delano Burgzorg brought to Preston?
Delano Burgzorg, on loan from Middlesbrough, made his mark in the recent 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers. The forward provided the assist for Callum Lang's opening goal, showcasing the attributes Preston sought in the market. "We wanted to replace that athleticism at the top of the pitch and it's one of Della's big strengths," said Paul Heckingbottom. "His work rate for the team, some of his counter-pressing and regains high up were very, very good."
Heckingbottom indicated that fans have only seen the beginning of what the Dutch attacker can offer. His pace and pressing from the front are seen as key assets for a Preston side that has conceded ten goals while scoring only five so far this season, leaving them with a minus-five goal difference.
How is Brad Potts progressing from injury?
There was encouraging news on the injury front as Brad Potts returned to training at Euxton on Monday. The versatile player has been sidelined since suffering an injury during the off-season, last completing a full 90 minutes on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign against Southampton. Defender Andrew Hughes, who picked up a knock against Wolves last month, also trained.
"Pottsy trained today, which is good," Heckingbottom confirmed. "He'll have another big session tomorrow, and then obviously next week will be huge for him because we're in all week and we can train properly." The manager stressed that the upcoming training sessions during the international break are vital for Potts's reintegration, with plans to expose him to more football next week. You can follow the latest team news on our dedicated injuries page.
How does squad depth affect selection?
The influx of new players has created intense competition for places, a situation showed by Pol Valentin being left out of the matchday squad for the first time this season despite being fit. Heckingbottom emphasised that every player must be prepared, as positions within the squad can change rapidly. This depth allows for a strong bench and varied tactical options, which will be tested in the coming weeks.
Preston's immediate focus is the trip to Watford, but they then face a quick turnaround with a home game against Lincoln City on Saturday, September 12. Lincoln currently sit 18th in the Championship table. This match will be Preston's seventh in just over three weeks, a gruelling stretch that highlights the need for a deep and adaptable squad. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures list.
What is Preston's current league context?
The win over Blackburn provided a vital boost, but the broader picture shows a challenging start to the campaign. Preston's league standing of 23rd places them eight points behind early leaders Swansea City. Improving a defensive record that has seen them concede twice as many goals as they have scored is a clear priority for Heckingbottom and his staff as they seek to climb the standings.
The manager's message is clear: the new signings are integrating, injured players are on the mend, and everyone must be ready to contribute. The next test comes at Vicarage Road on Tuesday night with a 7.45pm kick-off against Watford.
