Preston North End's surge for a play-off spot continues with Alex Neil's side up to seventh in the Championship after the weekend win over Brimingham City, left them a place behind sixth placed Aston Villa on goal-difference.

Preston are now unbeaten in 12 and with Reading next up for Lilywhites, the Deepdale faithful will firmly believe a play-off spot is a realistic expectation.

So is Alex Neil one of the best managers in the Championship based on the job he is doing at Preston?

We discuss......

Gary Hutchinson

“Absolutely!

“He’s been great for them in the latter stages of this season.

“Imagine if they’d had a good start to the campaign.

“They’d be top three.”

Jacob Potter

"He’s certainly up there with the best.

"On a low budget he’s doing an excellent job and I think he’s worth a punt by a more reputable club.

"If he can win promotion with Preston this season, then bigger clubs are likely to come calling in the summer."

George Harbey

"He’s definitely up there.

"The way he has turned things around at Deepdale after a turbulent start to the season has been magnificent.

"If they finish in the top six, it’s a fantastic achievement."

Jay Taylor

“When you consider their playing budget and status within the league, it’s a super job Neil has done.

“I would consider him to be a master at clubs such as Preston, but I am not sure he could do it on a big budget – some managers simply cannot work like that.

“Phenomenal job – and surely a manager who will not be short of offers come the summer regardless of how Preston finish the season.”