Todd Cantwell reveals how he feels about facing Burnley and Preston North End | OneFootball

Todd Cantwell has discussed the prospect of two big derby games against Burnley and Preston in the 2026/27 Championship season with Blackburn.

Blackburn endured a very difficult 2025/26 campaign, with Michael O’Neill doing a fine job to keep the club in the Championship.

It was hoped that the Northern Ireland chief would agree to stay, but, after discussions, he decided to commit to the national team, which left Rovers on the lookout for a new boss.

A deal was agreed for Tony Mowbray's return to Ewood Park, and now attention is on building a squad that is ready to compete in what is shaping up to be a very tough Championship, with Blackburn kicking off at Wolves on August 14.

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Todd Cantwell excited as Blackburn vs Burnley derby returns

One exciting aspect to the upcoming season is the number of rivalry games in the EFL, with West Ham vs Millwall, Wolves vs West Brom and Cardiff vs Swansea, just three derby fixtures that are scheduled.

Blackburn are also involved, as bitter rivals Burnley were relegated from the Premier League last season - much to the delight of the Rovers support.

Whilst the fixture doesn’t exactly hold positive memories for Blackburn in recent times, the nature of the rivalry means it’s always the first game that fans look for when the fixtures are announced, as many see it as one of the most passionate derbies in the country.

As well as that, Blackburn have a rivalry with Preston, and they have the bragging rights over their Lancashire neighbours, having done the double over North End last season.

So, the two derby games will add more spice to the season for all three clubs, and, when asked for his view on the fixtures, Todd Cantwell told Blackburn’s club media that it’s exactly what the players want.

Blackburn must be ready for difficult Championship season

It’s natural for Blackburn fans to look towards the games against Preston and Burnley, as they will be great occasions, both at home and away.

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These aren’t just normal games, but the reality is that Mowbray and the players won’t be looking that far ahead, as they will be concentrating on gearing up for the trip to Molineux on the opening day.

Then, when those games do come around, they will have an extra edge, and if Blackburn can get results, they will be great days for the fans.

So, Cantwell’s comments are spot on here, as they do mean more, and Burnley’s relegation does make the season a bit more interesting for Blackburn, as those games will be fierce.

The first meeting against Preston is at Deepdale on September 5, with Burnley vs Blackburn on November 21.