Saints are ready to make the 248 mile trip to Lancashire this Saturday. The Lilywhites, who sit comfortably in 12th place have had most of their success at Deepdale; winning five of their seven fixtures. Their last league encounter saw a convincing 2-0 win at home to Watford on Tuesday night.
Once named the ‘Invincibles`, winning the league unbeaten in 1889, Preston have been boosted by the capture of strikers Jon Parkin and Stephen Elliott, who add Championship experience.
Wayne Brown, on loan from Hull comes in to tighten up Preston`s defence along with Jay McEverly from Derby.
The Saints, who are going through a rough patch of late, have struggled to pick up points. With their last win coming over a month ago, there is a lack of confidence within this very young side.
Injuries continue to add salt to the wound with young star Adam Lallana having an ankle problem, ruling him out of Saturday`s fixture.
A sickness bug has hit the Southampton camp with Tomas Pekhart, Chris Perry and Joseph Mills all being ruled out due to illness.
Youngster Alex Pearce who joined on loan from Reading this week may start on the bench.
Vital Quotes:
Jan Poortvliet on new signing Alex Pearce:
‘He looks good and has played some games for their first team this year and wants to play again.’
Preston North End Team News:
Possible Preston team: Lonergan, St. Ledger, Mawene, Wayne Brown, McEveley, Nicholson, Jones, McKenna, Wallace, Parkin, Elliott.
Player to watch: Jon Parkin
A powerful player and is due his first goal for Preston.
Southampton Team News:
On loan from Sheffield United, Jordon Robertson declares himself fit for Saturday’s match.
Perry, Pekhart and Mills all suffer from a sickness bug and will not feature.
Adam Lallana has been ruled out with an ankle injury, incurred on Tuesday night.
Player to watch: David McGoldrick
With four league goals this season and on target Tuesday night, he will be out to trouble the Preston defence.
Match Facts & Stats
Saints have not beaten Preston in their last six meetings. Last season at Deepdale, Preston put five past the Southerners and completed the double at St. Mary’s by winning 0-1.
Ref Watch:
Mark Haywood (West Yorkshire)
Match Prediction:
Optimistic prediction: Preston 1-2 Southampton; McGoldrick to score both.
Next Fixtures:
Bristol City (H) Saturday 8th November (Live on Sky Sports)
