Preston North End are actively considering a move for free agent midfielder Greg Docherty to help with a deepening midfield problem. The player, released by Charlton Athletic just before the summer transfer period ended, is available to join a club now and would represent a low-risk signing for the struggling Championship team.
Preston are last in the Championship standings with a very low points total from their matches so far, having let in more goals than any other team. They sit 24th in the Championship on just 5 points after 12 games, with a record of one win, two draws and nine defeats. Their recent results have been poor, with a recent form of no wins, two draws and three defeats from their last five matches, and they trail the leaders Middlesbrough by 20 points. The pressing need for new players is made worse by injuries to key midfielders Ali McCann and Liam Gibbs, creating a major void in the center of the field. The club's injury list is a serious worry.
Docherty a low-risk option
Greg Docherty is a free agent with experience playing in the Championship for clubs like Hull City and Charlton Athletic. He was released by Charlton recently and has not played much lately, so he would need time to regain full match fitness. However, his effort, defensive skills, and familiarity with both promotion and relegation fights are viewed as qualities that could strengthen Preston's defense and team spirit. The team has conceded 25 goals this season, scoring only 10, and needs to shore up its defensive resilience.
Manager Graham Alexander has confirmed the club is exploring the free agent pool. "We have been looking into the free agent market," Alexander stated. Docherty is reportedly eager to play in the Championship again, and Preston have a vacant spot in their registered squad to sign him.
He is not known for scoring many goals or creating chances, but he would provide important depth, adding effort, strength, and flexibility to a midfield that has struggled. While he would be a helpful signing, the team will require more changes to recover from a terrible beginning to the campaign. The squad's overall stats show how difficult the situation is.
Preston's next match is away against Stoke City this weekend. The fixture, on Saturday 31 October, sees them travel to face a Stoke side currently sitting 9th in the table. Any deal for Docherty would have to be done quickly if he is to be an option for that fixture or for the important games coming up. Their most recent result was a 1-1 draw at home to West Brom on Saturday 24 October, where Andrew Hughes scored a late equaliser, but they have suffered heavy defeats in recent weeks, including a 4-1 loss at Wrexham and a 4-0 defeat at Birmingham.
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