Preston players to return for Bristol City clash

Alex Neil is hoping to welcome back a host of players for Preston’s clash with Bristol City.

Defenders Andrew Hughes and Patrick Bauer plus midfielder Ben Pearson and forward Sean Maguire are all expected to return to contention after missing the midweek defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.

Declan Rudd is set to return in goal while midfielder Billy Bodin is likely to shake off a calf issue.

Defender Tom Clarke is working his way back to full fitness and striker Louis Moult (both knee) is still sidelined.

Bristol City are monitoring Nathan Baker.

The defender was substituted just 30 minutes into last weekend’s goalless draw against Swansea with a calf injury.

Former Preston defender Bailey Wright is back in training after a thigh problem.

Adam Nagy (ankle) and Tomas Kalas (hamstring) are making good progress while Jay DaSilva (tibia) and Korey Smith (foot) are long-term absentees.