Preston appoint Heckingbottom as boss

Preston North End have appointed former Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom as their manager.

The 47-year-old guided the Blades to promotion to the Premier League in 2022-23 but was sacked last December.

He replaces Ryan Lowe, who left the Lancashire side by mutual consent after their opening weekend home Championship defeat by Sheffield United.

Heckingbottom, who will be assisted by Stuart McCall, will take charge of the team for the first time in Saturday's home game against Luton.