"He gave his all for us": Alan Browne expects Preston North End fans to welcome back Jordan Hugill

Alan Browne celebrates his goal against Cardiff last season with Jordan Hugill

Deepdale set for return of former Preston North End hero Jordan Hugill

He is expected to lead the line for the visitors for his first game back on familiar territory.

"We know the threat that Jordan poses and it will be up to us to deal with it," said Browne, who returned to the side with two goals and an assist in the 4-1 win over Blackburn on Saturday.

"I don't see why he shouldn't get a good reception.

"Jordan did fantastically well for us, gave his all every game and when a Premier League club comes knocking there's not much you can do.

"He's got to look after his family at the end of the day.

"We wished him all the best and will welcome him back as well."

Browne celebrates the win over Blackburn last time out

Hugill is a key part of a physical Boro outfit who head to Lancashire second in the Championship.

They face a PNE side though who have the longest current unbeaten run in the second tier, standing at eight games.

"We'll probably have to adapt to this game more than any other because of the physicality in their side," said Browne.

"They're a big team throughout the pitch.

"It will be a different test but one that we are more than capable of matching."