Preston North End defender Thierry Small is closing in on a return to action after a pre-season ankle injury. Manager Paul Heckingbottom confirmed the 21-year-old left-back is back in full training and could be in contention for the Championship opener against Bolton Wanderers this Saturday.
According to a report from the BBC, Small picked up the knock during a friendly against Bamber Bridge in July. Heckingbottom told the outlet that the player has made significant progress over the past week. "He trained fully today," the Preston boss said. "For someone who is a naturally fit boy, works hard, it will not take him long to get back up to speed."
How does Small fit into the Preston squad?
Thierry Small's return provides a timely boost for Preston's defensive options. The former Southampton youth player joined the club last summer and made 15 Championship appearances in his debut season. His pace and attacking intent from the left-back position offer a different dimension to the team's play. Preston's current squad shows a balanced age profile, with key defenders like Jordan Storey and Andrew Hughes providing experience alongside younger talents. You can view the full roster on our squad page.
Heckingbottom also used the update to confirm a new leadership structure within the group. Following the departure of long-serving midfielder Ben Whiteman to Wrexham, Ali McCann has been appointed club captain. Defender Lewis Gibson will serve as vice-captain.
What did Heckingbottom say about the new captain?
The manager was full of praise for McCann's influence at Deepdale. "Ali epitomises most of, if not all, the good things that have been going on at Preston," Heckingbottom stated. The Northern Ireland international, known for his relentless energy in midfield, has become a fan favourite since his arrival. His leadership role is seen as a natural progression for a player who consistently sets high standards in training and matches. Heckingbottom added that both McCann and Gibson are "good role models and set good examples" for the rest of the squad.
What are Preston's early season fixtures?
The immediate focus is on the opening day clash with newly-promoted Bolton at the Toughsheet Community Stadium. It marks the start of a challenging August schedule for Preston. Following the trip to Bolton, North End face a home match against Sheffield Wednesday before a midweek Carabao Cup tie. Their early season form will be important for building momentum. Fans can track the entire campaign on our fixtures list.
Preston finished last season in a respectable mid-table position and will be aiming to build on that stability. The club has retained the core of its squad, with the captaincy change being one of the few significant alterations. Integrating returning players like Small and establishing a strong start will be key objectives for Heckingbottom and his staff. The team's defensive record last term was solid, conceding 54 goals in 46 games, a foundation they will look to strengthen further.
Small's potential availability for Saturday adds a positive note to Preston's preparations. His last competitive action came in the final weeks of the previous Championship season. The fixture against Bolton kicks off at 12:30 BST on Saturday, August 8th.
