Heckingbottom Banned Ahead of Crucial Bristol City Clash

Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom will not be on the touchline for the club's decisive final Championship game against Bristol City after receiving a two-match ban and a fine for improper conduct during a previous match. Despite this setback, Heckingbottom remains focused on his team's survival, emphasizing that worrying about relegation is unproductive and that the squad must concentrate on securing a win. He plans to bring injured senior players to Bristol to provide experience and support in the dressing room. Heckingbottom acknowledges that the outcome of other matches could influence Preston's fate and expects to pay close attention to those results, particularly in the closing minutes. The match is significant for both sides, with Preston fighting to avoid relegation and Bristol City aiming for a play-off spot. Heckingbottom noted that watching from the stands may allow him to better monitor developments elsewhere, aiding crucial late-game decisions.