Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom has some difficult decisions to make for Saturday’s clash against Burnley.
A place in the FA Cup quarter-finals awaits the winner of the Deepdale encounter. Mads Frokjaer has not definitely been ruled out for PNE but is still a doubt, while captain Ben Whiteman will miss out along with Jack Whatmough, Jordan Storey and Duane Holmes.
A strong, senior XI is expected from North End with Heckingbottom having played up the fixture pre-match and stressed the opportunity ahead. There is plenty of competition in wide areas and attack while loan defender Ryan Porteous is cup tied, having played for Watford at Fulham.
One obvious big decision to make is whether Milutin Osmajic starts the match. The Montenegrin was accused of racism by Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri a fortnight ago. Heckingbottom is taking the incident seriously but assured he is viewing his striker as innocent until proven guilty.
Here is our predicted Preston North End starting XI to face Burnley...
5. RWB: Kaine Kesler-Hayden
Could be switched over to the left but there are more natural options there. He has been one of the most consistent performers this season and is backed to stay on the right. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. CM: Ali McCann
If he can get back to his best it will be a big boost for North End on the day. Would be a surprise to see him left out. | Ben Roberts Photo
7. CM: Stefan Thordarson
With no Whiteman he can bring another level of composure and class in possession. Need a big performance from him. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
8. LWB: Robbie Brady
Not an easy one to predict with Jayden Meghoma and Kesler-Hayden other candidates to play there. But, this might just be a day and occasion where Heckingbottom turns to a vastly experienced campaigner in Brady. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth