North End will begin 2024 with an early kick-off on Wearside, taking on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Match Details
Date: Monday 1st January, 12.30pm kick-off
Venue: Stadium of Light
Competition: Sky Bet Championship
Kit: Third kit
Supporter Information
Tickets are now off sale from www.mypne.com and in person from the ticket office, however supporters can buy until kick-off by clicking here. These tickets will be digital and will not be available in person on matchday.
Fans who have bought tickets from the PNE ticket office and are collecting on the day can do so from the matchday collection point in the ticket office, which is located within the Black Cat House, adjacent to the stadium.
Supporters should also be aware that the Stadium of Light is cashless.
Preston North End supporters will be asked to dispose of any coins or vapes at the turnstiles by the stewards on arrival.
All coins collected will be donated to Preston North End Community and Education Trust.
Who’s Available?
North End were boosted by the long-awaited return of Emil Riis on Friday night after almost a full year on the sidelines, and the Dane is expected to be part of the squad heading to the Stadium of Light.
Fellow forward Will Keane will need to be assessed ahead of Monday after struggling with illness for the last few days.
Jack Whatmough’s injury which forced him off against Sheffield Wednesday will also be checked on before the visit to Wearside, while Robbie Brady’s calf issue is expected to keep him out.
Opposition Focus
Sunderland are still settling into life under a new head coach in Michael Beale, who took over on 18th December, following the departure of Tony Mowbray.
The former Rangers boss got his first victory in charge of the Black Cats on Boxing Day, beating Hull City away from home, before picking up another point on the road against Rotherham United.
They’re in a good position in the table heading into the opening game of the year, sat a place and two points outside of the Play-Off spots.
A Recent Clash
Will Keane and Mads Frøkjær got on the scoresheet as PNE secured a first victory of the season in August.
Follow The Action
This match has been selected for Sky Sports coverage, therefore will not be available to watch in the majority of regions around the world on iFollow. Fans are advised to check their local TV listings.
Live commentary is available as usual, though, with commentary coming from Jonathan Breeze and club legend Tom Clarke. £2.50 match passes and £4.49 monthly passes are on sale here.
Coverage before, during, and after the game can be followed across the club’s social media channels and here on the website.
Match Officials
Referee: Oliver Langford
Assistant Referees: George Byrne and Andrew Dallison
Fourth Official: Dean Whitestone
After taking charge of the draw against Norwich City in December, Oliver Langford will referee his second North End match of the season on New Year’s Day.
So far this campaign, Langford has shown 60 yellow cards and five reds in 17 matches.