Preston North End vs Birmingham - Marnick Vermijl a doubt for Preston's home clash with Birmingham

Posted Tuesday, February 14, 2017 by PA

Preston defender Marnick Vermijl is managing an ongoing hernia problem and remains a doubt for the visit of Birmingham after sitting out the last three matches.

Midfielder Paul Gallagher and defender Tommy Spurr also missed Saturday's win over Brentford but could return.

Winger Tom Barkhuizen impressed as a substitute and could get more game time, while striker Stevie May made his first appearance since November 2015 with a late run-out and will now be looking to increase his involvement.

Defender Alex Baptiste is continuing his recovery from a knee injury by stepping up his training programme.

David Davis is banned for Birmingham's trip to Deepdale after his 10th yellow card of the season.

The midfielder starts a two-match ban following his booking in Friday's 3-0 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday, but fit-again Robert Tesche is likely to replace him after an ankle injury.

Defender Michael Morrison is still weeks away from returning after a groin injury while Clayton Donaldson is unlikely to feature until March as he battles an Achilles problem, but Ryan Shotton (groin) has an outside chance of featuring.

Jacques Maghoma is also out with the knee injury he suffered on African Nations Cup duty with DR Congo.