It has been a tough week for Ipswich Town after they suffered last-gasp heartbreak in the East Anglian derby before losing to Cardiff City in the week.

The Tractor Boys looked to have recorded a rare win over their bitter rivals Norwich City on Sunday, only for Timm Klose to equalise deep into stoppage time.

Then, despite playing fairly well, high-flying Cardiff grabbed a 1-0 win at Portman Road thanks to a disputed Kenneth Zohore goal.

Unfortunately for Mick McCarthy things don't get any easier this weekend as they make the trip to Preston.

Alex Neil's men have had a fine season and have made themselves really hard to beat, with only leaders Wolves losing fewer games than the Lancashire side in this campaign so far.

However, Ipswich will take confidence from their past two performances and will believe they can come away with something from Deepdale.

Here we look at the team McCarthy will go with.

The Polish stopper is one of the best in the Championship and simply has to play when he is available.

The on-loan Spurs man has settled into the team in the past few weeks, impressing with a few decent performances.

Given that, McCarthy is sure to stick with a back three that includes Carter-Vickers.

The Town defender is experienced, strong and reliable - exactly the sort of player that will be needed to deal with Preston's aggressive approach.

Webster is another who has played well recently and rounds off a strong looking back-three for the Tractor Boys.

McCarthy may be tempted to go with Spence however the on-loan Wolves man offers more of a threat going forward with his pace and athleticism.

The January signing will need to keep the ball for the visitors in what is sure to be a high-tempo game at Deepdale.

Skuse is a key man under McCarthy and again he has the qualities to ensure Ipswich stay strong when they come under pressure from North End.

Picking Connolly in a 3-5-2 is more defensive than going with Bersant Celina in a 3-4-3 but realistically it's going to be a battle out there.

Connolly is hardworking and a great team player. McCarthy can make a more adventurous sub towards in the second half if required.

The left-back is an easy pick for this position.

The 10-goal man was rested in the week so will be raring to go against his former club and will no doubt be a real handful for the hosts.

Even though he is on a poor run in front of goal, Waghorn has the physicality to unsettle the North End defence.

Thoughts, Ipswich fans? Let us know in the comments below.