[themaclad]

Preston North End are delighted to confirm that Jamal Lewis’ contract has been extended until the end of the 2025/26 season.

The Northern Ireland international arrived at PNE on a short-term contract at the end of October and made his debut the following day as a substitute in a victory at Southampton.

During his first month at the club, Jamal made six appearances and was called back into the national team by Michael O’Neill before picking up an injury in a 3-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday.

Returning to action to feature for North End in recent fixtures at Stoke City and Wrexham, the left-sided defender spoke with delight at extending his stay and is raring to get back into the thick of the action during the second half of the campaign.

Jamal said: “I was really thankful to the gaffer for chucking me in which is kind of what I needed. It was zero to a hundred miles an hour but that’s something that suits my personality. Thankfully, I recovered quickly from my injury and I’m happy to be back with the boys now and I’m raring to go.”

"Hopefully when I get a consistent run of games in they (the fans) should see the Jamal Lewis that's at full flow down the left. I want to get back into the starting eleven and help the team as much as possible. I feel good, I’m fit and healthy, and I’m ready to go."

Manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “He was obviously unlucky with the timing of his injury and when he got injured. All that’s reinforced is that he is important for us right now because we need him, and we’re important for him - he needs us and wants to play football.

“It’s a deal that suits both parties and we’re both really happy to get it done.”