UEFA Nations event
English football fans are always eager to see who makes the starting XI.
The upcoming Championship clash between Derby County and Preston North End is set for 17.01.2026 at 15:00. Here you’ll find everything about confirmed lineups, tactical approaches, and recent performances leading into one of the most anticipated fixtures in England.
Pre-Match Overview
Both clubs come into this Championship encounter with contrasting form and ambitions.
Derby County, currently sitting - in the standings, will look to secure valuable home points, while Preston North End, positioned -, aim to continue their climb up the Championship table.
Key match info:
- Country: England
- Date: 17.01.2026
- Kickoff: 15:00
- Favorite: Derby County
This fixture has a rich history — the sides last met on 20.09.2025, finishing Derby County 0-1 Preston North End.
Derby County Starting XI and Tactical Notes
The Derby County squad has been dominant at home throughout the Championship 2026 campaign.
Fans searching for the Derby County lineup today or Derby County starting XI can find it on this page.
The manager’s choices this week will likely focus on:
- Maintaining defensive stability after recent fixtures
- Enhancing midfield control and quick transitions
- Maximizing forward efficiency in the final third
Recent Derby County home performances:
Date Event Score 04.01.2026 Derby County vs Wrexham 1 - 2 01.01.2026 Derby County vs Middlesbrough 1 - 0 29.12.2025 Leicester City vs Derby County 2 - 1
Preston North End Confirmed Lineup
The visitors Preston North End have been unpredictable this season but remain dangerous against top sides.
Their confirmed lineup for today’s Championship game will soon be announced on this page.
Performance overview:
- League standing: -
- Recent head-to-head record: Derby County 0-1 Preston North End
- Wins this season over Derby County: 5
Recent away match stats for Preston North End:
Date Event Score 04.01.2026 Bristol City vs Preston North End 0 - 2 01.01.2026 Preston North End vs Sheffield Wednesday 3 - 0 29.12.2025 Wrexham vs Preston North End 2 - 1
Prediction and Final Word
As of 08.01.2026, odds point to Derby County as the likely winner, but English football rarely follows the script. Weather, intensity, and tactical precision will all influence the result.
The confirmed Derby County and Preston North End lineups for the Championship 2026 season will be updated here once available — stay tuned for the latest lineup news, formations, and player performances.
