Many Preston fans will remember with fond memories the last league game we played at the JJB Stadium. A match we won 1-0 to nearly clinch the Championship, scored by bloody Michael Jackson, who had blood pouring down his shirt after a clash with Haworth.
But both teams this season have got off to bad start and will be more determined than ever to get it right against their sternest rivals.
Preston will be looking for punishing the Latics at the back after news this week that they are going to lose defender and Captain Jason Le Vos. Ellington has been out also, so this has to be a major advantage for the Whites. The only injury worry is Rob Edward for PNE, who limped off on Tuesday with a groin strain. His straight replacement will be new signing Briscoe, who will make his league debut for the Whites if Edwards fails a fitness test.
One good factor for the Latics has got to be the form of Andy McCulloch. He had a great game against Hull City in the cup midweek and will be sharp for the derby match on Saturday.
For all the Wigan fans unfamiliar of the PNE team, the bookies have put Preston on to be the most surprising team of Division One this season! Last season was disappointing for the Whites, but this season the manager Craig Brown can bare no excuses. The team has now developed into a young promising lot and the pair of Lucketti and Jackson have bonded a good partnership at the back.