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Paul Heckingbottom is a leading contender to become Preston North End's new manager.

The 47-year-old, who guided Sheffield United to the Premier League in 2023 but was sacked last December with the club bottom of the table, is available and on Preston's shortlist.

Former Manchester City elite development squad coach Brian Barry-Murphy has also been linked with the role as multiple candidates are being considered.

Preston are seeing a replacement for Ryan Lowe, who left on 12 August, three days after they lost their opening Championship match 2-0 at home to Sheffield United.

Lowe had been at Deepdale since arriving from Plymouth in December 2021, and finished 13th, 12th, and 10th in the second tier during his time in Lancashire, but left after discussions with the club's board.

Interim manager Mike Marsh has also left the club after overseeing a 2-0 win over Sunderland in the Carabao Cup before a 3-0 defeat at Swansea in the Championship on Saturday.

The club said he didn't want the job on a permanent basis.

Preston next play against Luton Town at Deepdale on Saturday.