Preston North End have announced the departure of their manager, Paul Heckingbottom, after a poor run of form that has left the club second from the bottom in the English Football League Championship. The decision comes after six defeats in their last seven matches, including a 1-0 loss to Lincoln City at their home ground, Deepdale, on Saturday. The match was met with strong negative reactions from fans, who booed and jeered the team's performance. Heckingbottom was appointed in August 2024 and had managed 109 games for the club. However, since the start of January, the team has struggled, winning only five of their 27 league games. In a statement, the club acknowledged that the decision to sack Heckingbottom was based on unsatisfactory results during the 2026 season and the beginning of the current campaign. Despite significant financial investment in the playing squad, the results have not improved, leading to the change in leadership. The club expressed gratitude and best wishes to Heckingbottom, recognizing his professionalism and dedication during his tenure. Alongside the manager’s departure, assistant manager Stuart McCall has also left the club. In the interim, coach Jason Euell has been placed in charge for the upcoming match against Queens Park Rangers. The club will then enter a three-week international break, during which time a new manager is expected to be appointed.