Wolverhampton Wanderers travel to Preston North End this Saturday for their first away fixture of the new Championship campaign. The match at Deepdale kicks off at 3pm BST on August 22 and represents an early chance for Wolves to build momentum after an opening-day draw.
Reported by Athlon Sports, the game pits a Wolves side relegated from the Premier League last season against a Preston team looking to bounce back from a defeat. New head coach Cesar Peixoto is still searching for his first victory in charge of a squad widely tipped for promotion. The fixture is an early indicator of how both teams might fare this term.
What are the predicted lineups?
Wolverhampton Wanderers are expected to field a strong side as they aim for three points. The predicted lineup includes Sam Johnstone in goal, with a back four of Ki-Jana Hoever, Santiago Bueno, Toti Gomes and Hugo Bueno. Tommy Doyle and João Gomes could anchor the midfield, supporting an attacking trio of Chiquinho, Enso González and Jørgen Strand Larsen behind striker Fábio Silva.
Preston North End will look to use their home advantage. Their likely starters feature Daniel Iversen between the posts, with Pol Valentín, Jordan Storey, Liam Lindsay and Andrew Hughes in defence. Ali McCann and Jack Thompson may start in midfield, supplying forwards Alfie Devine, Callum Lang, Djeidi Gassama Burgzorg and Milutin Osmajić. You can view the full Wolves squad on our squad page.
How can fans watch the match?
For viewers in the United States, the match will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. Live streaming is available through the Paramount+ and FuboTV platforms. International fans can check availability via Wolves TV, though coverage is subject to the EFL's standard broadcast restrictions. This away trip is the first of many key fixtures you can track on our fixtures schedule.
What is the context for Wolves this season?
This is a significant season for Wolverhampton Wanderers following their relegation. The club is targeting an immediate return to the top flight and is considered one of the favourites for automatic promotion. A positive result at Deepdale would provide a timely boost. Preston, meanwhile, are keen to prove they can compete with the division's bigger clubs, especially on their own turf.
The opening weekend saw Wolves held to a draw, while Preston suffered a loss to Bolton Wanderers. Both teams will therefore be highly motivated. The match offers Peixoto's side a chance to lay down a marker on the road. You can follow how this result affects the early table on our standings page.
What comes next for Wolves?
After the trip to Preston, Wolverhampton Wanderers' focus will shift to the next challenge in a demanding Championship schedule. Securing points away from home will be vital for any promotion push. This game provides the first real test of the team's resilience and tactical setup under their new manager. A win would build confidence ahead of a long season where every match counts.
