2009-2010 Championship Previews

Manager: Alan Irvine

Odds to win: 28/1. Odds for Promotion: 6/1

2008-2009:

Position: 6th W:21 D:11 L:14 F:66 A:54 Points: 74

Top Scorer: Neil Mellor (12)

FA Cup: Third Round

League Cup: Second Round

Yellows: 57 Reds: 3

Results against Reds:

22/11/08 Preston 2-1 Barnsley. 28/12/08 Barnsley 1-1 Preston

2009-2010:

Name: Simon Ostiadel 
 
Club: Preston North End 
 
Level of Interest:( I.e Now and then, Every other week, season ticket holder etc) Season Ticket Holder who goes to a fair few away games. 
 
How has pre-season gone for you? 
 
So far not too bad. Unbeaten but not played anyone at a kevel above yet. We will have sterner tests against Stoke and Wigan. 
 
Are you pleased with the signings your club has made?
 
We have just signed Paul Parry from Cardiff which is our only signing of note. We need to plug the midfield gap so hopefully he will do the trick.
 
What realistically are you aiming for this season? 
 
If we can repeat what we did last season by finishing in the top six then it will be another amazing season.
 
Which player has past his sell by date? 
 
Well with Mckenna going we have a fairly young squad and we appear to be getting rid of the fringe players. Hawley may well be the next one to go although he should do well at a lower level.
 
Have you got the right manager in charge?
 
Alan Irvine has proved he is the right man in charge. He has taken us from the bottom of the league to top six in little over a season so he has turned the club around. 
 
What advice would you give him?
 
I couldn't give him any advice on football that he doesnt't already know. Maybe just to buy a top quality midfielder to help the cause!
 
Who do you see as your key player? 
 
Parkin scored some vital goals for us last season and the forwards will be key this year if we are to progress but really St Ledger at the back is the player to watch. 
 
Who would you most like to beat this season?
 
Blackpool for obvious reasons.
 
Where will you finish?
 
If we get through without any major injuries the top six could be a possibility again.
 
How do you rate Barnsley's chances next season and where do you think they will finish?
 
Barnsley will be tough opponents for most especially at Oakwell but I think a mid-table finish will be in order.