Birmingham City rivals confirm new manager as statement released ahead of St Andrew’s test

Preston North End have appointed Graham Alexander as their new manager to replace Paul Heckingbottom, with the club currently sitting second from bottom in the Championship table. The former North End midfielder arrives after leading Bradford City to promotion and leaving them top of League One, following an extensive recruitment process led by chairman Ian Penrose.

Alexander takes charge of a Preston side that has won just once this season. North End face Millwall at home following the international break before traveling to face Birmingham City at St Andrew's three days later.