Preston North End’s midfield took another blow in midweek and the Lilywhites now gear up for a tough trip to Sheffield United.
Ali McCann - who has been a regular in the XI all season - was forced off during the second half against Swansea City with a calf problem. PNE were already without captain Ben Whiteman, creative spark Mads Frokjaer and livewire Duane Holmes - though the former is getting closer to a return.
Defensive pair Jordan Storey and Jack Whatmough will remain sidelined for the Bramall Lane clash, so Preston could be missing up to six senior players. McCann’s absence could see loan star Kaine Kesler-Hayden return to right wing-back and fellow loanee Ryan Porteous brought into the heart of defence.
Here is our predicted North End XI to start in Sheffield...
5. RWB: Kaine Kesler Hayden
His speed down the right could be one outlet for PNE in a game that promises to be a challenge. | CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
6. CM: Ryan Ledson
Looks nailed on for a start given Whiteman and McCann's issues. Should be confident of doing a job given some of his recent performances. | CameraSport - Shaun Brooks
7. CM: Stefan Thordarson
The Iceland international sat out of the midweek match but Heckingbottom expects him to be fine for this one. If so, a start is a no brainer. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
8. CM: Brad Potts
You know what you get from the number 44 and his athleticism in midfield may well be called upon away from home. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth