Preston vs Norwich: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Ladbrokes' detailed preview for Preston vs Norwich in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 12:30 GMT match.

• Fixture: Preston vs Norwich
• Date: Saturday, 20 December 2025
• Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
• Venue: Deepdale

Preston's recent form suggests they're in a good place, with a knack for grinding out results on the road. Their predicted 3-4-1-2 setup could give them the edge in midfield, allowing players like Valentin and Small to control the tempo. Norwich, on the other hand, have been a bit up and down but showed they can score against top teams. It'll be a tight affair, but Preston's solid backline might just keep Norwich at bay.

Norwich will look to exploit their attacking options in a 4-2-3-1, with Mattsson pulling the strings in midfield. However, their defence has been leaky at times, which could be a concern against a Preston side that's been scoring regularly. If Preston can keep their shape and capitalise on counter-attacks, they could nick it. But don't count out Norwich; they've got the firepower to turn the game on its head.

Preston have been in fine fettle lately, with two wins and three draws in their last five games. They've shown they can mix it with anyone, beating Oxford United away and drawing with the likes of Coventry and Watford. This run of form should give them plenty of confidence heading into this match, and they'll be looking to keep their momentum going.

Recent Championship Results:

• Win: 2-1 vs Oxford United (A)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Coventry (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Wrexham (H)
• Win: 3-2 vs Sheffield Wednesday (A)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Watford (A)

Norwich have had a mixed bag recently, with two wins, two draws, and a loss in their last five outings. They've shown they can beat strong teams like Southampton at home, but their away form has been less convincing. This inconsistency might play on their minds, but they'll be eager to put on a show and get back to winning ways.

Recent Championship Results:

• Win: 2-1 vs Southampton (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Sheffield Utd (A)
• Loss: 2-3 vs Watford (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs QPR (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Oxford United (H)

The head-to-head record between these two sides has been closely contested recently. Preston had the upper hand in the last meeting, winning 1-0, which was preceded by a 2-2 draw. However, Norwich did secure a convincing 4-0 victory in an earlier encounter. This suggests that while Preston have been the more consistent side lately, Norwich are capable of holding their own.

Recent Championship Results

• Norwich 0-1 Preston (11 Feb 2025)

• Preston 2-2 Norwich (22 Oct 2024)

• Preston 0-1 Norwich (13 Apr 2024)

• Norwich 0-0 Preston (09 Dec 2023)

• Preston 0-4 Norwich (14 Jan 2023)

• Milutin Osmajic (Disciplinary) - Out

• Jamal Lewis (Hamstring) – Out

• Lewis Gibson (Muscle) – Out

• Alistair McCann (Arm) – Doubt

• Robbie Brady (Calf) – Doubt

• Pape Diallo (Hip) – Out

• Gabe Forsyth (Knee) - Out

• Mirko Topic (Knee) – Out

• Ante Crnac (Knee) – Out

• Jeffrey Schlupp (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Liam Gibbs (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Lucien Mahovo (Hip) – Doubt

• Shane Duffy (Muscle) – Doubt

• Josh Sargent (Head) - Doubt

• Jack Stacey (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Iversen (GK), Offiah (DF), Storey (DF), Hughes (DF), Valentin (MF), Armstrong (MF), Devine (MF), Small (MF), Whiteman (MF), Dobbin (AT), Jebbison (AT)

Preston's predicted 3-4-1-2 formation should see them dominate the midfield with Valentin and Small providing the legs and creativity. Up front, Dobbin and Jebbison will look to exploit any gaps left by Norwich's attacking play.

• Predicted lineup: Kovacevic (GK), Fisher (DF), Darling (DF), McConville (DF), Chrisene (DF), McLean (MF), Mattsson (MF), Forson (MF), Wright (MF), Schwartau (MF), Makama (AT)

Norwich's 4-2-3-1 setup will rely on Mattsson and McLean to control the midfield, with Forson and Schwartau providing width and creativity. Makama will be the focal point up top, looking to capitalise on any service from the flanks.

• Lewis Dobbin vs Ben Chrisene: Dobbin's pace and movement will test Chrisene's defensive nous.

• Pol Valentin vs Oscar Schwartau: Valentin's energy in midfield will be crucial against Schwartau's creative flair.

• Thierry Small (Preston): Small's ability to dictate play from midfield will be vital for Preston.

• Pelle Mattsson (Norwich): Mattsson's control and passing in midfield will be key for Norwich's attacking play.

Preston vs Norwich at 12:30 GMT on Saturday, 20 December 2025 is being broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports+

Ladbrokes is predicting that the score will be Preston 2-1 Norwich in this match

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