MIDDLESBROUGH host Preston at the Riverside today as Michael Carrick's side go in search of successive Championship victories.

It's been a dramatic start to the campaign for North End, whose former manager Ryan Lowe left after just one game and has since been replaced by Paul Heckingbottom.

Preston head for Teesside having lost three of their first four games.

We get the lowdown on the Lilywhites from the Lancashire Post's North End reporter George Hodgson, who also fills us in on Sam Greenwood and how the Leeds United former Boro loanee has settled at Deepdale.

Talk us through the dramatic start to the season and Ryan Lowe’s exit – was it a surprise?

Certainly after just one game, yeah. It was quite a remarkable situation and far from ideal. Last season didn't finish well and Ryan Lowe had two tough runs during his two-and-a-half year, so he'd been under big pressure before.

You felt he had to start this season well and it was a tough opening night against Sheffield United. Lowe was booed off by some supporters, with sections of the fan base undoubtedly lost. Going through a whole transfer window and pre-season though, for that to then happen, was a mess.

How have Preston responded and how has Paul Heckingbottom started?

After being well beaten at Swansea City under caretaker Mike Marsh, PNE had to get the appointment right. Thankfully, Heckingbottom has been well received by the Deepdale faithful - who seem right behind him and charismatic assistant, Stuart McCall. North End were excellent against Luton, in Hecky's first match, and then destroyed Harrogate Town in the Carabao Cup.

They were brought back down to earth a little, last time out at Oxford. But, there were some positive spells in that game and Preston were left to rue mistakes on the day. Heckingbottom feels like a safe pair of hands, but also someone who can take North End forward in time. The last fortnight should've been extremely valuable and it's a big week ahead now.

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How has Sam Greenwood settled, what’s his role in Heckingbottom’s side and what are the chances of him earning a permanent stay?

He's made a strong impression on Heckingbottom, so full credit to him for that. It's not great when the manager who signs you leaves so soon, but Greenwood has clearly got his head down and put the work in.

He was handed a start at Oxford and was one of the better performers on the day. His set-piece delivery was a big reason for Preston recruiting him and we've seen that in flashes, so far. Greenwood has delivered some quality crosses and he scored a lovely free-kick at Harrogate.

He's operating in the number 10 position and drifting into wide areas too. As for permanent possibilities, there is an option in the loan deal but we'll have to see how he gets on. Director Peter Ridsdale has also said Leeds United gaining promotion would have an impact on that option.

What’s the aim this season? And what are your views from the outside looking in on Middlesbrough?

PNE need results through to January and to ensure they're pushing up the table. But, you'd hope to see a consistency in performance alongside that and for Heckingbottom to then evolve the team - as the season progresses.

It is going to be a year of him learning about the squad and making decisions on how he takes it forward. It's tough to look or think about the play-offs right now; the league looks hugely competitive this year and North End have to find their feet after a bizarre first month.

As for Middlesbrough, I'd be surprised to not see them in the top six. There is plenty of talent in that squad and you'd back Michael Carrick to make best use of it. I know there are a few injury issues, but I fully expect them to have a strong year.