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...
9. LWB: Robbie Brady
Started the last two games and it's a fixture you'd expect Heckingbottom to keep him in for. | CameraSport - Richard Martin-Roberts
10. ST: Will Keane
Got his goal against Burnley and the PNE boss has been glad to have him back in the fold. Capable of dropping into attacking midfield slots and linking play for Preston. | CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
11. ST: Milutin Osmajic
Has been starting games regularly in recent weeks and is backed to get the nod again, with a big shift required from the number 28. | Getty Images