Wrexham vs Preston Prediction, Match Preview, Monday, 29 December

Wrexham vs Preston Prediction, Match Preview, Monday, 29 December. As we look ahead to this Championship clash, Wrexham will host Preston at the SToK Cae Ras. The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:45, with both teams eager to secure vital points as the season progresses. Wrexham, representing Wales, will aim to make the most of their home advantage against the English side, Preston.

The Championship is renowned for its competitive nature, and this encounter promises to be no different. Wrexham have shown resilience in their recent performances, while Preston are looking to climb the league table with a strong away display. The SToK Cae Ras will be buzzing with anticipation as these two teams meet, making it a must-watch fixture for fans and punters alike.

Wrexham vs Preston Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Wrexham to Win	2.17

Given Wrexham’s strong home form and their recent unbeaten run, our recommended betting tip is to back Wrexham to win. The odds of 2.30 present good value considering their current momentum and Preston’s inconsistency.

• Preston’s recent defensive lapses, including a 7-1 defeat to Coventry, highlight their vulnerabilities.
• Wrexham’s attacking threat is enhanced by key players such as Kieffer Moore, who continues to deliver.
• In head-to-head encounters, Wrexham hold a psychological edge with a recent Carabao Cup win and a league draw against Preston.

Wrexham are unbeaten in nine consecutive home matches, underlining their strength at the SToK Cae Ras.

Betting Odds

Wrexham enter this Championship clash as favourites with odds of 2.17, while Preston are considered underdogs at 3.33. The draw is priced at 3.23, indicating that a tight contest is expected.

Betting Tip	Odds
Wrexham to win	2.17
Draw	3.23
Preston to win	3.33

For those looking to place a bet, the odds suggest a potentially close encounter, with Wrexham’s home advantage possibly tipping the balance. However, Preston’s capacity to upset the odds should not be underestimated, making this an intriguing match for punters.

Wrexham Analysis & Past Performance

Wrexham’s recent form has been mixed, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. Their latest home fixture against Sheffield United ended in a 5-3 draw, highlighting both their attacking strength and defensive vulnerabilities.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Wrexham	Sheffield United	5 – 3 (Win)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Swansea	Wrexham	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	19 Dec 2025
Wrexham	Watford	2 – 2 (Draw)	Championship	13 Dec 2025
Hull	Wrexham	2 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	10 Dec 2025
Preston	Wrexham	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	6 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WLDLD

Despite scoring nine goals in their last five matches, Wrexham’s defence has been porous, conceding ten goals. They have failed to keep a clean sheet in these games, revealing a defensive frailty that needs to be addressed. At home, though, they have been relatively strong, with three wins and two draws from their last five home fixtures, boasting a win ratio of 0.60 at the SToK Cae Ras.

Wrexham Suspensions & Injuries

Wrexham are facing significant challenges due to the absence of several key players through injuries and suspensions. The defence will be without Lewis Brunt, sidelined with a thigh injury until late January 2026. This absence may see Phil Parkinson turn to Max Cleworth to fill the gap, potentially impacting the team’s defensive solidity. In midfield, Andy Cannon and Lewis O’Brien are both out, with O’Brien expected to return by mid-February 2026. Their absence could hinder Wrexham’s ability to maintain possession and control the tempo against Preston.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Issa Kaboré	International duty	1	Unknown
James McClean	Post-match ban	2	Unknown

Attacking options are also depleted, with Ryan Hardie out with a knee injury and Elliot Lee recovering from knee surgery. Both are vital to Wrexham’s offensive strategy, and their absence may result in a more conservative approach, focusing on counter-attacks through remaining forwards such as Josh Windass.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Andy Cannon	Cruciate ligament injury	Late April 2026
Danny Ward	Dislocated elbow	Late January 2026
Aaron James	Knee surgery	Late February 2026
Lewis Brunt	Thigh injury	Late January 2026
Elliot Lee	Knee surgery	Late March 2026
Ryan Hardie	Knee injury	Late January 2026
Lewis O’Brien	Dislocated shoulder	Mid February 2026

Suspensions further compound Wrexham’s issues, with Issa Kaboré and James McClean unavailable due to bans. Kaboré’s suspension, owing to international duty, leaves a gap in the already stretched squad, while McClean’s post-match ban limits options on the wings. These absences could affect the betting markets, potentially shifting odds in Preston’s favour, as Wrexham may struggle to field their strongest side.

Wrexham Key Players

Wrexham will rely heavily on their top scorer Kieffer Moore, who has scored ten goals this season, to lead their attack. Moore’s physicality and aerial ability make him a constant threat in the box, and his hold-up play brings teammates into the attack. His partnership with Nathan Broadhead up front could prove crucial, with Broadhead’s pace and technical ability complementing Moore’s style.

In midfield, Josh Windass stands out as a key playmaker. His vision and precise passing can unlock defences, providing vital support to the forwards. Defensive stability will be provided by Dominic Hyam and Callum Doyle, whose coordination and tackling are essential in thwarting Preston’s attacks. Arthur Okonkwo in goal will also play a crucial role, needing to command his area and make key saves.

Expected lineup for Wrexham:

• Goalkeeper: Arthur Okonkwo
• Defenders: Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, Callum Doyle
• Midfielders: Matty James, Ryan Longman, Ben Sheaf, George Thomason, Josh Windass
• Forwards: Nathan Broadhead, Kieffer Moore

Wrexham Tactics and Formation

Wrexham Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 3-4-3
• Key Forward: Kieffer Moore
• Midfield Engine: Matty James and Ben Sheaf
• Defensive Challenge: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and exploiting wing play.

In their recent match against Sheffield United, Wrexham employed a 3-4-3 formation, enabling them to dominate possession with 54%. The defensive trio of Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, and Callum Doyle provided a solid base, but the team still conceded three goals, indicating room for improvement at the back.

The midfield, orchestrated by Matty James and Ben Sheaf, played a crucial role in transitioning the ball from defence to attack. With Ryan Longman and George Thomason operating on the wings, Wrexham’s strategy often involves stretching the opposition and creating space for their forwards.

Offensively, Kieffer Moore is pivotal, leading the line with support from Josh Windass and Nathan Broadhead. Despite the lack of clean sheets, Wrexham’s high pressing and wing play have been effective, as seen in their five goals in the last game, showcasing their attacking potential to challenge Preston.

Preston Analysis & Past Performance

Preston’s recent form has been defined by their ability to avoid defeat, as shown by their last five Championship matches, where they remain unbeaten. The team recorded one win and four draws, including a recent 0-0 stalemate away at Stoke. This run has helped them maintain a top-five position in the league, with a total of 37 points.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Stoke	Preston	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Preston	Norwich	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	20 Dec 2025
Oxford	Preston	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	13 Dec 2025
Preston	Coventry	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	9 Dec 2025
Preston	Wrexham	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	6 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• DDWDD

Preston’s attack has been steady, averaging one goal per game over their last five fixtures, while the defence has been relatively solid, conceding an average of 0.8 goals per game and keeping one clean sheet. Away from home, they have shown resilience, winning 40% of their last five away matches. However, three draws suggest a lack of cutting edge in securing victories on the road. Their ability to score in 80% of these games demonstrates attacking persistence, but their defensive record indicates there is room for improvement to solidify their league standing.

Preston Suspensions & Injuries

Preston will be without Robert Brady and Lewis Gibson, both sidelined through injury. Brady’s absence due to a calf injury until early January 2026 means Preston will miss his versatility and experience in midfield. This could see Paul Heckingbottom rely more heavily on Alistair McCann and Ben Whiteman to control central areas. Meanwhile, Gibson’s muscle injury, keeping him out until late February 2026, leaves a gap in defence, potentially increasing the responsibilities of Jordan Storey and Andrew Hughes.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Robert Brady	Calf Injury	Early January 2026
Lewis Gibson	Muscle Injury	Late February 2026

The absence of these key players may prompt tactical adjustments, with Preston possibly adopting a more conservative approach to maintain defensive solidity. The lack of depth due to injuries could also affect squad rotation, especially during a congested fixture period. Without Brady, there may be a greater reliance on wide players for creativity.

From a betting perspective, these injuries could influence the match outcome, as Preston may struggle to maintain their usual performance levels. This could shift odds and betting markets, with Wrexham potentially seen as having a slight edge.

Preston Key Players

Preston’s attacking threat is led by Daniel Jebbison, the team’s top scorer with five goals this season. His consistent finishing and positional sense make him a constant danger. Jebbison’s partnership with Michael Smith up front offers a dynamic offensive threat that can trouble Wrexham’s defence. Smith’s physicality complements Jebbison’s agility, forming a formidable duo.

Midfield control will be crucial for Preston, with Alistair McCann and Ben Whiteman expected to dictate play. McCann’s vision and passing, alongside Whiteman’s tenacity and defensive skills, provide a balanced midfield engine. Their ability to transition play quickly could be key to breaking Wrexham’s lines and creating chances.

Expected lineup for Preston

• Goalkeeper: Daniel Iversen
• Defenders: Odel Offiah, Jordan Storey, Andrew Hughes
• Midfielders: Pol Valentin, Alistair McCann, Ben Whiteman, Harrison Armstrong, Thierry Small
• Forwards: Michael Smith, Daniel Jebbison

In defence, Jordan Storey and Andrew Hughes are vital, tasked with maintaining a solid backline. Storey’s aerial strength and Hughes’s versatility ensure Preston remain defensively resilient. Their performance will be crucial in countering Wrexham’s attacking advances. Overall, these key players form the backbone of Preston’s tactical approach, offering both strength and creativity throughout the team.

Preston Tactics and Formation

Preston Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Daniel Jebbison
• Midfield Core: Ben Whiteman and Alistair McCann
• Defensive Strength: Clean sheets in recent matches highlight solid defensive work.
• Notable Strategy: Compact midfield with reliance on wing play.

Preston’s 3-5-2 formation is designed to offer a strong defensive base while retaining attacking flexibility. The defensive trio of Odel Offiah, Jordan Storey, and Andrew Hughes provides solidity at the back, supported by wing-backs Pol Valentin and Thierry Small, who contribute both defensively and offensively.

In midfield, Ben Whiteman and Alistair McCann are pivotal, providing defensive cover and facilitating transitions with their passing range. This setup allows Preston to control the central areas and dictate the game’s tempo.

Offensively, the team relies on the partnership of Michael Smith and Daniel Jebbison, with Jebbison as the top scorer. Their ability to convert opportunities is crucial, given the team’s recent run of low-scoring draws. The wing-backs’ delivery from wide areas is a key aspect of Preston’s attacking approach.

Wrexham vs Preston Head-to-Head Record

Examining the head-to-head record between Wrexham and Preston, both teams have one win and one draw from their last three meetings. Their most recent encounter ended in a 1-1 draw in the Championship earlier this December, underlining how evenly matched these sides are.

The last time Wrexham hosted Preston was some time ago, but the upcoming clash at the SToK Cae Ras could prove pivotal. Notably, Wrexham secured a thrilling 3-2 victory in the EFL Cup back in August, demonstrating their potential to upset the odds.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Preston North End	Wrexham	1 – 1	Championship	2025-12-06
Preston North End	Wrexham	2 – 3	EFL Cup	2025-08-26
Preston North End	Wrexham	1 – 0	League One	2000-03-25