Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom will be forced into at least one change for Saturday’s Lancashire derby.
It’s Burnley who head to Deepdale for a 12:30pm kick-off between the two rivals. Both sides picked up wins in midweek with PNE victorious at Norwich while the Clarets - who are now 21 unbeaten in all competitions - saw off Hull City at home.
For Preston there are a handful of first team players unavailable, though ex-Burnley man Robbie Brady could be back in the fold along with Emil Riis. However, it’s the second game of Ali McCann’s suspension while Ben Whiteman, Jordan Storey, Jack Whatmough and Duane Holmes are out injured.
The latter started at Norwich but was stretchered off mid way through the first half following a strong challenge from Shane Duffy - which he has since apologised publicly for. Minimal changes are expected from Heckingbottom but Holmes will of course need replacing.
Here is our predicted XI to start against Scott Parker’s side!
5. RWB: Kaine Kesler Hayden
Been a vital player on the flanks for Preston this season. Another big shift from the Aston Villa man will be needed on Saturday. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. CM: Stefan Thordarson
There is a big onus on the Iceland international to perform again in the absence of Whiteman and McCann. Will be a big test in the derby and hopefully he can rise to it, after playing well in midweek. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
7. CM: Ryan Ledson
Should partner Thordarson in the middle of the park again and will be looking to replicate his showing on Tuesday night - when he was combative and effective. | Getty Images
8. LWB: Jayden Meghoma
The whole point of bringing the Brentford loanee in was to play him and Heckingbottom has done just that. Burnley have some dangerous wide players but the teenager won't be fazed. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth