Speaking ahead of the must-win game, Lilywhites left-back Josh Earl revealed: “I have a good relationship with the manager. The conversations that I had with him over the summer were basically me telling him that I was going to come back as the 'old Josh Earl'.
“I told him that I was going to come back fighting for him and be in good shape. I am definitely mentally stronger than I was when I first broke into the team. It is tough coming in as a young lad. I think I am still a similar player but I’ve gained a little bit more experience and I feel a little bit tougher mentally.”
He continued: “I have had to wait a little while for a chance and that has been down to players in my position playing really well. There’s been other factors too so I was really pleased to get back in the side and hopefully I can nail down that spot.
“The loan spell at Burton did not go as well as I would have liked, I did not play as many games as I would have wanted to. But I made sure I worked hard over the summer and came back in decent nick.”
Take a look at the latest news round-up from the Championship, as the window moves closer to its final week:
9. Lilywhites set to swoop for Curtis
Preston North End are said to have "stepped up their interest" in signing winger Ronan Curtis from Portsmouth. The Republic of Ireland international has also been linked with Cardiff City and Blackburn Rovers. (Portsmouth News) Photo: Eric Alonso
10. Trio linked with big-money striker
Middlesbrough, Birmingham City and QPR have all been credited with an interest in Watford striker Andre Gray. The 30-year-old, who was bought by the Hornets for £18.5m back in 2017, has also starred for the likes of Luton and Burnley in the past. (Hartlepool Mail) Photo: Richard Heathcote