Preston North End won for the first time in eight attempts in the league against Coventry City last night - and they're set to be boosted even further ahead of their clash with bitter rivals Blackpool on Saturday.

That is because both Sean Maguire and Ali McCann have returned to training two days before the Lilywhites make the short journey down the M55 to face the Seasiders for the first time in the league in over 11 years.

Maguire is yet to score in the league this season in 10 appearances, but his presence at the top end of the pitch for mainly his work rate and link-up play has been important in Frankie McAvoy's system.

The Republic of Ireland international tweaked his hamstring at the start of the month against Queens Park Rangers and hasn't featured in the last two PNE squads, but he has a shot now of being involved at Bloomfield Road.

Similarly McCann also picked up an injury at Loftus Road in what was the Northern Irish midfielder's first league start for PNE, but that has now been shaken off and he may be ready to play a part come 3pm on Saturday afternoon.

The Verdict

Even though North End were victorious against the Sky Blues last night, it's still a major asset to have both Maguire and McCann seemingly available for this crunch clash with Blackpool.

Both have assets that you ideally want in a derby match and they'll be eager to impress if given the opportunity.

Strength in depth is key for PNE especially with a last 16 Carabao Cup match next week to navigate against Liverpool - they're bound to push themselves against the Tangerines on Saturday so if McCann and Maguire do not get their chance at the weekend then it's likely they will get to test themselves against the former Premier League champions.

But all PNE fans would love nothing more than to get one over on their bitterest rivals and they have a better chance with players like these coming back into contention.