Preston North End predicted XI vs Charlton Athletic as defender returns and tough calls to make

It’s back at Deepdale this weekend for the final match before the international break

Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom faces a difficult team selection this weekend, as the Lilywhites host Charlton Athletic.

After making four changes in midweek at Hull - two of those enforced - Heckingbottom must decide whether to stick or bring the likes of Lewis Dobbin and Ali McCann back into the fold.

Those two have been featuring regularly in the North End starting XI this season. He will also welcome Andrew Hughes back from his one-game suspension, with the Welshman likely to return to the PNE backline.

Michael Smith scored his first goal for Preston on Tuesday night and could retain his place alongside Milutin Osmajic. There is, though, plenty of competition in the middle of the park with Everton loan man Harrison Armstrong having impressed on full debut.

Here is our predicted PNE XI to start against the Addicks.

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