'Preston's transformation is impossible to ignore'

If you've been following Preston North End closely, the transformation from last season's struggles to this season's exciting challenge to push further up the table is impossible to ignore.

Beyond the surface, the numbers tell a story of real progress – a team evolving tactically and mentally to reinstall the "Proud" in Proud Preston.

Last season, Preston's attack couldn't quite find its cutting edge, with an average of just 1.04 goals per game and a shaky conversion rate from the chances created.

This season, the stats paint a different picture.

Preston now average nearly 12 shots per game, and their expected goals (xG) of 1.32 align closely with their actual goals scored (1.31).

The attack is sharper, more clinical, and the chances created are of higher quality.

This is a team confidently taking its opportunities rather than scraping for scraps.

The summer recruitment looks to be the reason behind the shift, bringing in young, hungry, gifted players who are so likeable and have been a joy to watch so far this year.

Possession remains modest at around 46%, showing Paul Heckingbottom's pragmatic approach.

The focus isn't on dominating the ball but on using it intelligently.

Progressive passes have increased, pushing the attack higher up the pitch and creating real threats in the final third. The team strikes a fine balance between patient build-up and sharp transitions.

Defensively, the difference is stark. Although the personnel haven't changed, the quality of their performances has.

The goals conceded per game have dropped from 1.28 to under one per match (0.92), and are outperforming their expected goals against (1.32 xGA).

This means the defence is not only more structured but also rising to the challenge when opponents create danger.

There are more tackles and blocks per game, reflecting a pressing, combative mindset that was missing last year.

The clean sheet rate has almost tripled (second best in the league), providing the foundation for those vital wins. Equally, 'keeper Daniel Iversen isn't having to work too hard, he's only making 2.2 saves per match, but when he is called into action, he's looking like the best signing of the summer.

Watching the team play, you can almost see the numbers come alive. The average positions show a compact, disciplined shape.

Midfielders and defenders hold their lines tightly, minimising gaps and forcing opponents wide. This tactical refinement enables swift defensive recovery and quick, incisive counter-attacks, the hallmark of a team growing in confidence and cohesion.

The victory over Southampton at the weekend was more than just three points; it was another hardworking team effort where we outfought the opposition.

Against a club with greater resources and squad depth, North End showed they can compete toe to toe with anyone in this league.

The team's energy, tactical discipline, and will to win were clear for all to see, giving the 1,000+ travelling fans plenty of cause to celebrate the long journey back home to Lancashire.

One of the key drivers behind this resurgence is the mindset shift. Heckingbottom, known for fostering a high-performance environment, has infused the squad with an unshakeable mentality of competitiveness and resilience.

We might not have the biggest budget in the Championship, but he doesn't let that define the team's ambition.

It's about pride, fighting spirit, and working tirelessly for every point. This culture of grit and determination has become the club's trademark this season, and under his leadership, it's been a huge part of why Preston are now matching, and often exceeding, all those pre-season "expert" opinions.

The team looks like one that understands its strengths and plays with conviction. From key tackles to precise through balls, the stats back up the bright performances on the pitch.

This turnaround isn't just in numbers, it's in spirit. And if this detailed evidence of progress tells us anything, it's that North End are going really well, but tougher tests are still to come.

The players are going to need us, the fans, to help maintain this brilliant start to the season.