Two things already look key for North End in the summer transfer window

Defeats like North End's at Ewood Park last Friday night often lead to more in-depth reflection.

- by George Hodgson

After an ordeal of a Lancashire derby, it was impossible to not ponder beyond those 90 minutes: not just at where the Lilywhites are now, but where they are going and what they need.

As written about in the aftermath, this was a night where PNE's lack of creativity, invention and spark was alarmingly stark.

Clearly, this has not been a constant of the season with North End sat ninth after 34 games, following Tuesday night's 1-1 draw at Swansea.

But Preston were found wanting against an organised and resolute Blackburn Rovers. Recent history tells us this is not a new struggle for them to encounter.

One thing the current squad lacks is one-v-one ability.

Pol Valentin can drive on the outside and deliver, as can Andrija Vukcevic, though both are defenders by trade.