After winning the Sir Tom Finney Player of the Year award, goalkeeper Freddie Woodman said he’s “hungry” to build with the team next season.
North End’s No.1 had a fantastic debut campaign at Deepdale following his arrival from Newcastle United.
The shot-stopper began his PNE career with a record-breaking seven consecutive Championship clean sheets and he went on to register 17 shutouts in total.
Freddie said: “It’s really nice on a personal note to get that award and to come and do it in my first season makes me really happy and makes me proud.
“But it also makes me hungry to go again next season and come back in pre-season and really go again and build with this team.
“I didn’t expect it at all. It’s just nice to be recognised for the performances I’ve put in this season, and even the stuff that the fans probably don’t see like the work I do day, in day out.”
The award was voted for by the club’s supporters, who have taken a liking to the shot-stopper since his arrival in June 2022.
When asked about the fans’ support, Freddie said: “Unbelievable. I’ve said in a number of interviews it was one of the biggest reasons why I signed here.
“This place [Deepdale] when it is packed out and rocking is class. It’s a hard place to come as an away fan but to be a home player now with this crowd is awesome.
“I’m so happy I’ve managed to build a relationship with them and it was nice to have that moment.
“I can’t thank them enough again for the support throughout the season, it’s been top drawer.”
Despite the personal accolade, the season ended on a disappointing note as PNE lost 3-0 to Sunderland on the final day.
The visitors made it into the Play-Off spots with their victory at Deepdale and Freddie wants to experience that kind of feeling next season.
“I was feeling it on the pitch,” Freddie said.
“I felt a bit angry that that wasn’t us. It was hurting me during the game, it’s been hurting me since we haven’t been able to do it.
“I think next season that has to be the aim. That has to be the goal throughout the season and I’m sure that we’ll come back in pre-season and that will be right up there with what we want to achieve for next season.”