Alarms have been set early for the PNE faithful making the long trip to the south coast this afternoon as Paul Heckingbottom’s men face Southampton.
It’s a first visit to St Mary’s for the Lilywhites since the 2023-24 campaign, with Ryan Lowe’s side falling to a 3-0 defeat to the eventual play-off final winners.
North End go into the latest meeting seven points and 13 places above the Saints, who currently sit 20th after an underwhelming return to the Championship.
Will Still’s men fell to a 2-1 defeat to Blackburn Rovers last week, while PNE came from behind to claim a 3-2 triumph over Sheffield Wednesday.
We’ve taken a look at the early team and injury news from both camps ahead of this afternoon’s Championship fixture.
13. Andrija Vukcevic - Out
Vukcevic was forced off during the 3-2 triumph over Sheffield United last week due to a hamstring injury. It is understood the midfielder will be forced to miss a couple of months due to the setback. | CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
14. Jamal Lewis - Doubt
It remains to be seen whether Lewis could be thrown straight into the side after arriving at Deepdale on a short-term deal on Friday. | Ian Robinson
15. Flynn Downes - Doubt
Downes suffered a knock to his knee in training, with Still admitting the Saints are hoping to speed up his recovery in order to be ready for the visit of PNE. | Getty Images
16. Robbie Brady - Out
Brady underwent surgery in September due to a calf issue, which was expected to keep him out of action for a number of months. The 33-year-old is one of four long-term absentees for Heckingbottom. Photo: Ben Roberts Photo