Preston boss Alexander not focused on gap at bottom

Alexander says Preston must focus on winning matches regardless of league position, with Southampton visiting Saturday after an 11th defeat in 14 games.

Graham Alexander insists Preston's position in the Championship table is irrelevant to their approach, telling BBC Radio Lancashire that the only solution to their struggles is to win football matches. Tuesday's defeat by Sheffield United was their 11th in 14 games, leaving them nine points from safety.

"Looking at the table, whether the gap is three or eight points, the end result of that diagnosis is we have to win football matches," Alexander said. He added that he does not monitor other results, focusing instead on factors within his control: his players, training, and their own games. The manager said his mindset remains balanced, avoiding the extremes of overconfidence or despair.

Alexander revealed that Preston changed formation 15 times in the 28 games before his arrival, and he is now prioritising consistency to help players perform. Southampton, who are chasing promotion, visit Deepdale on Saturday at 15:00 GMT. Johnny Kenny is awaiting scan results on a hamstring injury sustained against Sheffield United and could be sidelined for several weeks, while Leo Leroy is suspended. Free agent Greg Docherty, a former Charlton captain and promotion-winner, is in contention if a deal can be agreed.