[themaclad]

Preston North End are delighted to announce Ali McCann has signed a new deal with the club.

The central midfielder, who originally joined PNE in August 2021, has extended his stay at Deepdale until at least the summer of 2029.

With 143 North End appearances to his name and having featured in every league match so far this season, Ali has become a key part of Paul Heckingbottom’s side, while also now being a regular for the Northern Ireland national team.

Ali said: “I’m buzzing to be fair. I feel really settled here and I’ve really enjoyed my time, so I’m happy it’s continuing.

“I think where the club and the squad is now and how we’ve started this season has been unreal.

“It’s probably one of the best I’ve been a part of, if not the best since I’ve been here.”

Ali initially made the move to Deepdale from St Johnstone four years ago for his first experience of English football and since then he feels he’s grown as a player and a person off the pitch.

Despite only being 25, the midfielder is viewed as a senior and experienced head in the dressing room and has taken the captain’s armband on a number of occasions for PNE.

Manager Paul Heckingbottom added: “It’s a no brainer from our point of view. Ali was really clear that he wanted to stay.

“He loves it here and he wants to be a part of things, so I think it was really sensible from both sides and everyone got what they wanted which is great.”