Preston North End will look to bounce back from a defeat in their last outing when they host an in-form Oxford United at Deepdale Stadium on Saturday in the EFL Championship.

After gaining some momentum in their campaign with consecutive wins over Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday, the Lilywhites were beaten 3-1 by West Brom.

A brace from Josh Maja, either side of a goal from Callum Styles, had the Baggies 3-0 up in the first half before Ryan Ledson pulled one back for Preston late on. It was too little too late as the Lancashire outfit began the new year with a loss.

After their eighth defeat of the 2024-25 campaign, Preston are now in 16th position, having collected just 29 points from 25 games. They sit only seven points above the drop zone.

Oxford are two places below them, having accured two points fewer, but are currently on a roll – they’ve won their last three Championship games in a row and in the best form of their season right now.

The Yellows were plummeting deeper into the relegation battle after going seven games in a row without a win between November and December, losing six. But a sensational upturn in form has seen them climb back into the safe zone.

Preston North End vs Oxford United Head-To-Head and Key Numbers

• There have been 26 clashes between the sides before, with Oxford winning on exactly half the occasions and losing nine times
• The sides have played just four draws in their history, the last of which came way back in April 1982, when they drew 2-2 in the League Division Three
• Oxford have won five of their last seven clashes against Preston
• Having won their last three Championship fixture, the Yellows are looking to make it four in a row for the first time since a run of five between September-October 2023

Preston North End vs Oxford United Prediction

Oxford come into the fixture on the back of three consecutive league wins, which is a sign of massive improvement following a terrible run. They certainly have the momentum here, and will be looking to build on it and secure another victory.

Prediction: Preston North End 1-2 Oxford United

Preston North End vs Oxford United Betting Tips

Tip 1 – Result: Oxford United

Tip 2 – Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5

Tip 3 – Both teams to score: Yes