A report in the Lancashire Post has delivered a mixed update on Preston North End’s playing squad ahead of this weekend’s clash with Fulham in the Sky Bet Championship.  

Alex Neil is expecting to welcome back three players from injury following last week’s international break, with John Welsh, Ben Pearson and Paul Gallagher all coming back into contention.

Welsh and Gallagher are certainly in contention for Saturday’s clash at Craven Cottage, but Neil is prepared to play the waiting game with Pearson, who has been out of action for a number of weeks.

Neil said: “Gally is fine, he has been training. John Welsh is fine, his calf has cleared up and he’s been training well.

“Ben Pearson has been training this week, which is good to see.

“Obviously we will have a gauge on Ben at the end of the week to see where we think he is at. He’s been out for six weeks, which is a long time and we need to make sure he is okay.”

Pearson missed all of September, and has not featured for North End since the end of August.

Whilst the midfielder could potentially miss out, Neil will definitely be without Darnell Fisher, who is suspended, and Tommy Spurr, with the Preston boss confirming that the defender had picked up an injury.

Preston head to London this weekend for another stern test against Fulham, who are one side looking to make up ground on Neil’s men.

The Lilywhites currently sit sixth, three points ahead of Saturday’s opponents, who are 10^th.

Neil’s side head to Craven Cottage on an eight game unbeaten run.

The Verdict

This really is mixed news for Preston and Neil.

Despite the boost of seeing Welsh, Gallagher and Pearson all returning, it is frustrating for Neil that Fisher is suspended and Spurr has picked up an injury.

Preston have enjoyed a fine start to the season, but Neil will know maintaining this start will be a test for North End and he will need a fully fit squad at his disposal.

Preston fans… Let us know your thoughts!