Big game this, as 4th place North End welcome 3rd place Leyton Orient to Deepdale with just five points separating the two sides.
Orient have been slipping in recent games but are still considered promotion candidates along with the Lilywhites.
The 3rd place side have lost three games in a row, which includes a loss midweek to Bristol City, and losses to Peterborough and Rotherham.
A win for Simon Grayson’s Lilywhites will see them close the gap on Russell Slade’s O’s by two points.
The last time these two sides met was back at Brisbane Road in November, where Joe Garner was the only scorer to give his side three points.
Manager’s Pre-match Quotes:
Grayson: “There is no getting away from the fact that it is a big game and if we can get the three points we will close the gap on them, which would give us a boost, but if it went the other way, they`d be delighted and pulling away.’
Grayson: ‘They have lost the last three and Russell will be doing everything he can to make sure there is a reaction and this could be the best game for them; coming to Deepdale, with a good atmosphere, against one of the top teams in the division.’
Preston North End Team News:
Grayson will have a fully fit side to choose from as Josh Brownhill and Tom Clarke are set to return in contention after a brief spell on the sideline.
Player to watch: Joe Garner
Garner got a brace last week against Tranmere Rovers and has a habit of scoring in 2014, so will he be able to add to his goal tally?
Leyton Orient Team News:
Strike pair Mooney and Lisbie are set to return for this fixture for Leyton Orient, with Elliot Omozusi out after being injured and substituted in their midweek game versus the Robins.
Player to watch: Dean Cox
Cox joined the East London side in 2010 from Brighton, which was Slade’s previous club.
The number seven has netted eleven goals this season.
Match Facts & Stats
Ref Watch:
Experienced Football League ref Dean Whitestone has been appointed for Saturday.
Whitestone has took charge of twenty-two games this season, handing out sixty-one yellows and four reds.
