The Lilywhites briefly drifted towards the relegation earlier in the season, but have rallied under interim head coach Frankie McAvoy in recent weeks, and could finish as high as eleventh in the league table if results go their way over the course of the final two match days of the season.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's clash against the Tykes, Preston skipper Allan Browne was asked to sum up his season, and answered honestly: “Not great. It was just a poor season all round. I’ve moved around positions but I still think I could have performed better. No matter where I play I expect a lot from myself.
“I just wasn’t up to it this year, there is no reason for that, I just wasn’t at it. I need to change that going into next year.
“It’s been really tough for everyone, that is not why I’ve had a poor season I know what I’m capable of and I know I will have a lot better one next year.”
Here are today's biggest transfer stories and the latest team news involving Preston North End and the rest of the Championship, as the build-up to this weekend's action continues:
1. Barnsley boss joins Blades favourites list
Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael has appeared on the list of bookies' favourites for the vacant Sheffield United job. However, at 14/1, he's still some way off current front-runner Alexander Blessin at 15/8. (SkyBet) Photo: Alex Livesey
2. Pearson lands Robins deal
Despite winning just two of his first 12 games in charge of Bristol City, Nigel Pearson has been handed a three-year contract to become the club's permanent manager. The Robins are currently 18th in the table. (Club website) Photo: Paul Harding
3. Magpies look to land Norwich target
Newcastle United look set to test Celtic's resolve with an £8m bid for their defender Kristoffer Ajer, despite the Hoops valuing him at £25m. Championship side Norwich City have also been linked with the towering Norway international. (Daily Mail) Photo: SAVO PRELEVIC
4. Naughton signs Swans extension
Swansea City's defender Kyle Naughton has signed a one-year contract extension with the club. The 32-year-old has made 30 league appearances for his side this season, playing a key role in their play-off push. (BBC Sport) Photo: Harry Trump