Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has issued his verdict on Preston North End's clash against Charlton Athletic at Deepdale on Saturday. 

Both sides have been in poor form over the Christmas period, with Preston not winning since the 14th of December and the Addicks picking up just one victory since mid-October.

With that in mind, both sides will likely see Saturday's game as an opportunity to get back to winning ways.

Preston drew 1-1 with Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers last weekend and will no doubt be hoping a return to Deepdale can help them recapture their form–though it hasn't in recent weeks.

The visitors will likely be in good spirits after a determined performance earned them a draw against league leaders West Bromwich Albion.

However, Lee Bowyer's side are in the midst of an injury crisis and have now lost Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher, who has been a key player this season.

Writing for Sky Sports, Prutton has suggested that Preston will be too strong for the Addicks and predicted that Alex Neil's side will win the game 1-0.

The hosts are 10th in the Championship, two points adrift of the top six, meaning a win could see them climb as high as sixth.

Charlton have slipped dangerously close to the relegation places and are just four points above the drop zone as things stand.

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The Verdict

It's hard to disagree with Prutton on this one. Charlton produced a spirited performance last weekend to hold the Baggies to a draw but the loss of Gallagher is a huge one and something that should not be underestimated.

He's been fantastic this season and his exit leaves Bowyer with even fewer options, particularly given their injury issues.

Preston have been in awful form over the festive period but the majority of the division have struggled, leaving them still within touching distance of the top six.

This is an excellent opportunity to get back to winning ways but they shouldn't expect this Charlton side to go down without a fight.