David Prutton delivers score prediction for clash between inconsistent Preston and Cardiff City

Alex Neil’s men picked up a good win against local rivals Blackburn Rovers last week, but were brought crashing back down to earth after slipping up against Watford in midweek.

That result leaves the Lilywhites 13th in the table and 10 points adrift of the play-off places.

By contrast, Cardiff have been on a march up the Championship since Mick McCarthy took over in the dugout.

The Bluebirds are currently on a run of four straight victories, and are seventh in the table after beating Luton Town on Tuesday night.

Looking ahead to this weekend’s clash in the Welsh capital, Prutton has backed them to keep their impressive run of form going too.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: “It's slightly frustrating when you know how good a manager Mick McCarthy is and then you saw some of the reaction when he was appointed at Cardiff.

"But he's been so successful at this level before, and is showing it again already.

“It's been a week that sums up Preston this season. A good win against Blackburn last Friday, a frustrating defeat in midweek.

"They just cannot find any consistency, and I cannot see them getting a result here.”

Prutton forecasts a 2-0 win for the Bluebirds.

Preston will be hoping to avoid a repeat of the reverse fixture between the two sides back in October.

North End were beaten 1-0 at Deepdale, courtesy of a Sheyi Ojo strike.