After having ten days off to figure things out Simpson appears to have more headaches ahead of a crucial clash with Southampton. Preston lie eight points behind leaders Birmingham and seven behind Derby in second. win woul dkeep them in touching distance with all three teams then being equal on games played.
The team selection is causing problems but this time for the wrong reasons. Matty Hill who has performed heroicly in recent games is out for one match suspended for five bookings. Fit again Callum Davidson is set to take his place.
After disaster at Cardiff the back four may well see other changes. Soley may well return with either St Ledger or Chilvers to miss out. Wilson will also be challenging Alexander at right back and Lonergan will be put under scrutiny after his recent return from injury hasn't shown him in the best of lights.
The midfield will see enforced changes with Whaley and Mckenna both out. Pergl will probably remain with Sedgewick likely to come back in. Unless late loan signing is made Simpson may just opt for three narrow in midfield. Anyinsah and Neal are also out leaving a lack of width about the side.
Nugent seems to be the only player certain of playing. Ricketts looks likely to start and will probably play in the whole with Dichio or Mellor partnering Nugent. Ormerod may make th ebench after having a mask fitted to protect of cheek injury. Agyemang is also at the ready.