First Championship sacking announced as club release statement with two exits confirmed - AOL

Preston North End has sacked Paul Heckingbottom, with the club issuing a statement confirming the departure. The message said the decision came despite “significant investment” in the playing squad since he joined, but that the results during 2026 and the start of the current campaign have not been acceptable. Heckingbottom leaves with the club’s thanks, alongside references to his professionalism and work ethic. The statement also confirmed that Stuart McCall has left the club as a result. Preston said it will appoint a new manager as soon as possible, while Jason Euell will take charge of first-team matters on an interim basis until then.