Only one minute later, the ball was in the back of North End’s net as Tyrese Campbell popped up to head home from Harrison Burrows’ inviting cross. Heckingbottom admitted his side started the afternoon poorly but he was pleased with the second half display.

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North End's 2024-25 season is all but over with 11 games to go, and a problem has been identified when it comes to consistency

On a more positive note, club captain Ben Whiteman is back in the fold ahead of Saturday’s trip to Sheffield United - one of his former clubs. The skipper has been out for around six weeks with a nasty ankle blow but is in full training again. PNE’s boss was coy over Mads Frokjaer and Stefan Thordarson’s chances.

Paul Heckingbottom reacts to Sheffield United reception after Gus Hamer "cheat" moment v Preston North End Paul Heckingbottom was grateful for the reception he received on his return to former club Sheffield United after they picked up their latest win of the season against his Preston North End side this afternoon.

Sheffield United host Preston North End on Saturday, and they will warmly welcome back former management duo Paul Heckingbottom and Stuart McCall in the Bramall Lane dugouts. This clash will be one of the very last Saturday 3PM home kick-offs of the season.

Sheffield United will welcome back former boss Paul Heckingbottom when he brings his current side Preston North End to Bramall Lane on Saturday (15:00 GMT).

When you're first coming into a club, for example when I first came to Preston your job is to get that connection. Your job is to go and understand the club and the people. If you've already got that when you step into it,