City have started the campaign well which is the opposite to what can be said of Preston. Traditionally slow starters the Whites will now have to pick up the pace if they are to have any sort of decent season.
Manager Simpson now has a tough quartet of games ahead where points are a must. Lonergan and the back four will remain the same barring any last minute injury worries but concern is growing over the ease of goals conceded particularly at set pieces.
The midfield was changed last week with Davidson having a sterling game alongside Nicholls and this will certainly continue. Whaley is still out of form which leaves Sedgewick to play out right but there may well be a recall for Lewis Neal ahead of Darren Carter on the left.
Simpson has persisted with Agyemang up front but may well be tempted to start with Mellor after his exploits in the reserves. Gallagher should start if he is fully fit with Hawley also looking for a starting spot. Carroll is still suspended.
All in all a tough game lies ahead. If we can cut out the mistakes and find some decent service then there maybe rewards for us at the end of the ninety minutes.