Over the years Preston North End have had many memorable players who have cemented their way into the heart of the team in midfield. All through the 80s, 90s and 00s there have been players who have gone on to become some of the most popular players the club has utilised. How many of these men do you remember? READ MORE: Preston North End defenders of the 80s, 90s and 00s. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: PNE best goalies of all time. MORE MEMORIES: Preston managers of the 90s and beyond
17. Barry Nicholson
Barry Nicholson had a time marred with injury at Preston North End, but the midfielder managed to make 93 appearances and score nine goals Photo: Iain Lynn
18. Brian O'Neil
Brian O'Neil enjoyed relative success with PNE, scoring five times in 110 games and becoming well-regarded by Preston supporters for his calm play and fine passing in the centre of the pitch Photo: Ian Robinson
19. Gareth Ainsworth
Gareth Ainsworth enjoyed three spells with Preston North End. The first brief spell in 1992 saw him make just five appearances. But this was followed up by a longer stint with the club, from 1993 until 1995 - bagging himself 83 appearances and 14 goals. He returned to PNE on loan from Wimbledon in 2002 and played another five times, scoring once Photo: Archive
20. Paul Gallagher
Although Paul Gallagher is more remembered for his recent playing history, he was actually first signed on loan to Preston North End in 2007, and so just makes the cut in this list. Whilst on loan he impressed with 19 appearances and one goal. A popular player with fans Gallagher was voted Preston North End's player of the decade (2010–2019) by fans in January 2020 Photo: Donna Clifford