Preston’s fine away form continued on Saturday afternoon with a 1-0 win at Blackburn Rovers.
Almost 8,000 North End fans converged on Ewood Park, and saw Daniel Johnson’s early goal settle the game. That’s now five away wins in a row for Preston, with Alex Neil’s men now 10 unbeaten.
Johnson grabbed the headlines with the goal, but it was another composed defensive display at the back. Jordan Storey and Ben Davies have attracted all the attention with their centre back displays, but others deserve praise too.
Left back Andrew Hughes is one such player, an Neil offered huge praise to the Welshman for his performance at Ewood Park. Speaking to BBC Radio Lancashire, Neil suggested that Hughes was ‘outstanding’ against Blackburn, whilst hailing his development.
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“I thought Andrew Hughes was outstanding again,” said Neil. “He’s come on leaps and bounds,” he added.
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Hughes, 26, was signed for just £200,000 (LEP) from Peterborough United last summer, arriving as Greg Cunningham’s successor.
It was initially unclear whether Hughes would be competition for Josh Earl or a starter under Neil, but he’s made the position his own. Not only has his size been beneficial at the back, but he’s chipped in going forward too.
Hughes has really improved as the season has gone on, which is now surprise in his first Championship season. In 2019, he has been key to North End’s fine form, and is looking like another Preston bargain.
He may not quite be Greg Cunningham, but Hughes as proved great value for money so far – and clearly Neil is delighted with his performances.