Preston North End face another difficult afternoon at Deepdale on Saturday, with Graham Alexander still dealing with several injury problems ahead of Southampton’s visit.

With another injury to a key attacking player, Preston North End’s already small squad is getting even thinner, an unwanted surprise considering their form.

Their club captain and vice are out, important defensive players, and now their best attacker, where do Preston go from here?

Preston North End Team News

The biggest concern is Johnny Kenny, who suffered a hamstring injury during Tuesday’s defeat against Sheffield United. The striker was forced off after just 13 minutes and is awaiting scan results, with Alexander admitting the early signs were not encouraging.

Leo Leroy will also be unavailable after collecting his fifth yellow card of the campaign, meaning he is suspended for the weekend.

Ali McCann, Liam Gibbs, Lewis Gibson and Harry Clarke remain sidelined through injury, leaving Alexander with limited options across the squad.

There is some positive news, however, with Caleb Wiley returning to action against Sheffield United after a lengthy spell out. Alfie Devine has also recovered from his calf problem, coming off the bench and getting an assist midweek against Sheffield United.

The 23-year old’s impact from the bench warrants him a start, despite the noise surrounding him and the manager’s relationship during the past week, the influence and ability he has needs to be utilised in times like these.

Dropping him to the bench and protecting him by saying it’s a calf issue is more than enough punishment for the potential antics, let the boy play.

Southampton Team News

The visitors have a few concerns of their own, with Cyle Larin and Caspar Jander both requiring assessment.

Larin has been struggling with a hamstring problem, while Jander picked up a muscular injury in training. Both could be in contention, depending on their recovery.

Leo Scienza is another player to monitor after missing the draw against West Brom with pain from a minor injury. Tonda Eckert is optimistic the Brazilian will return for Saturday’s fixture.

Flynn Downes also needs monitoring after being substituted during the West Brom match, while Mads Roerslev remains unavailable.

Both managers will be hoping for positive updates before kick-off, although Alexander appears to have the more significant injury list to contend with.