WHEN Blackburn Rovers host Preston North End in a Championship Lancashire derby on Friday, the game will be of interest to a number of clubs in the region, and their supporters.
Loaning players to the Championship has long been a way for Premier League sides to allow their talented young players to gain experience in senior football, and this season has been no different.
With both Liverpool and Everton sending players on loan to Blackburn and Preston, there is the possibility that players from the Merseyside rivals will be lining up as teammates while also facing teammates on Friday.
As the historic ground prepares for its emotional farewell, even visiting teams like Manchester City are paying tribute to one of English football’s most storied stadiums, writes JAMES NALTON



