Cleverley rebuffs Preston rumours as Argyle chase top spot

Tom Cleverley has dismissed he is set to leave Plymouth Argyle for Preston North End, insisting his focus remains on the Pilgrims’ upcoming league match against Burton Albion. The manager’s denial comes as Preston, who sacked Paul Heckingbottom after a 1-0 defeat at Lincoln City, continue their search for a new head coach.

Preston’s managerial hunt and the shortlist

The Lilywhites became the first Championship side to fire their manager after collecting just three points from seven games. With no fixtures until 10 October because of an extended international break, the club have had extra time to assess candidates. The Sun reported on Sunday that Cleverley was listed alongside Robbie Keane and Leighton Baines, but the Plymouth boss has publicly ruled himself out.

Argyle’s push for the league summit

International break has left most League One fixtures untouched this weekend, but Plymouth still travel to face Burton Albion on Saturday, aiming for a fourth consecutive win. A victory would lift the Pilgrims to the top of the third‑tier table, especially as Bradford City and Sheffield Wednesday are also idle.

In his pre‑match press conference Cleverley said, "I'm completely focused on my work here. I think it's normal that a coach that's doing well is sometimes rumoured, but that's all it is," and added, "I'm really focused on my work here. I'm enjoying it more than ever, and the feeling of building something is really strong at the minute."

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Fans have reacted strongly to the Preston chatter. One supporter wrote on X, "Argyle go up, Preston go down… TC ain’t going anywhere 💚," while others echoed, "Cleverley going nowhere" and "Cannot see TC leaving Argyle for Preston." The consensus online suggests the manager is firmly rooted at Home Park.

Sam, a freelance sports journalist, graduated from the University of Salford with a First Class Broadcast Journalism degree. Despite his broadcasting background, Sam has a plethora of experience in writing, having produced many articles for the Northern Premier League and various Leeds United blogs. Having supported Leeds all his life, he is no stranger to the EFL and has contributed media work for Stockport County, Wigan Athletic and Salford City, making him well‑versed across the entire 72.

Like many observers, Sam follows the thread of discussion on social media, logging his observations here from the North. His coverage highlights that last season only Lincoln, the champions, amassed more points than Plymouth did in 2026, and the Imps remained unbeaten over a 23‑game stretch.

Argyle have carried that momentum into the current calendar year, collecting 60 points and scoring 61 goals from 30 league games. The form suggests a realistic push for promotion back to the Championship, and Cleverley’s confirmed loyalty is likely to galvanise further fan support as the club chases the summit.