Preston don’t have a bunch of internationals in the squad, so the international break is almost like a week off for many North End players.
Alan Browne came on for the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, but Seani Maguire has pulled of their squad. Alex Neil hasn’t lost anyone else to international duty, so players had a chance to recharge their batteries.
One player decided to take a trip back to his former club, as midfielder Tom Bayliss used his time to return to the Midlands.
Bayliss joined North End from Coventry City last month, representing a hugely exciting addition. So far, he hasn’t played much first-team football, with Neil taking a patient approach with the youngster.
Most likely to be Paul Gallagher’s heir, Bayliss is having to be patient at Deepdale. That may be a surprise to Coventry fans after seeing him impress in League One last season, but they’ve at least seen him again this weekend.
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Bayliss took a trip to watch his former club in action, at Coventry’s temporary home; Birmingham’s St Andrews. Coventry just happened to be playing Blackpool, so Bayliss cheering on the Sky Blues will go down very well in Preston.
Fans posted photos with Bayliss and sent messages to him after being spotted watching his former club, and his support seemingly worked for Mark Robins’ side.
Coventry had been 2-0 down to the Tangerines, with Sullay Kaikai scoring twice. However, goals from Matt Godden and Wesley Jobello pulled the Sky Blues level.
Coventry completed their comeback late on, as Callum O’Hare snatched an injury time winner, leaving Coventry fans, Bayliss, and even Preston fans happy.