PNE got a point in PR1 last time out, coming from behind with 10 men to get a point against play-off side Luton Town.
It was their first point in their last five games, having lost them all, but will be needing to go one better against the Latics.
Shaun Maloney’s men are bottom of the league but are unbeaten in his four games in charge so far, and are the only side in the Championship with a worse home record than the Lilywhites.
PNE, meanwhile, are searching for their first home win since November 1.
Ryan Lowe could make some changes this weekend, with a couple of injuries and suspensions forcing him away from his usual choices, and performances must improve too.
5. CB: Greg Cunningham
With Hughes potentially out, North End need a left sided centre half and Greg Cunningham has done that job admirably in the past. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. RWB: Brad Potts
With numbers thinned in the middle of midfield it's even less likely that Brad Potts will be dropped on Saturday, given his only replacement is a central midfielder. Did well against Hull too. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
7. CM: Ryan Ledson
With Ben Whiteman still banned, Ryan Ledson is the most likely selection at the base of the midfield. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
8. CM: Alan Browne
The skipper is back in the middle of midfield and is vital to PNE, especially now Ali McCann is out for the season. Hopefully Alan Browne can rediscover his form of last season more regularly. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd