Paul Heckingbottom has been dismissed of his duties in charge of Preston North End after two years in charge. 

The news comes after yesterday’s 1-0 loss at home to Lincoln City. Preston currently sit 23rd in the Championship with only one win in their opening seven.

Heckingbottom took charge at Preston in 2024 after a spell at Sheffield United, whom he earned promotion to the Premier League with, before being dismissed the following season.

Preston’s statement reads: “Football is a results business and despite significant investment in the playing squad since Paul joined, the results during 2026 and the start of this current campaign have not been acceptable.

Paul leaves us with our thanks and best wishes. His professionalism and work ethic during his time with us have been second to none.

As a result of this decision Stuart McCall has also left the Club today. We similarly thank Stuart for his contribution over the last two years and wish him all the best for the future.

We will now look to appoint a new manager as soon as possible but until such time as we do Jason Euell will take charge of first team matters on an interim basis.”

The Englishman replaced Neil Lennon in the Easter Road dugout in 2019, lifting Hibs into the top six after a disappointing start to the season.  Heckingbottom was however dismissed after nine months as Hibs sat 10th after another disappointing start to the season. During his time in Edinburgh, Heckingbottom’s recruitment was heavily criticised after many signings arrived from England’s third tier- Joe Newell was brought to the club that summer and still remains at Hibs, serving as club captain.

Heckingbottom was then succeeded by Jack Ross in Leith.