Preston North End welcome Sheffield United to Deepdale on Tuesday night, with both sides having plenty to play for as the Championship campaign continues.

Graham Alexander’s side are desperate to get their season back on track after another disappointing result at the weekend, while Chris Wilder’s visitors arrive with renewed confidence following their victory over Wrexham.

There are, however, a number of selection headaches for both managers ahead of the meeting.

Preston North End Team News

Alexander is still dealing with several injury problems, particularly in defence, where Lewis Gibson remains unavailable after undergoing a procedure to address a hernia alongside an existing groin issue.

The centre-back is expected to miss around a month or potentially longer, leaving Preston short of options at the back.

Harry Clarke and Liam Gibbs are also long-term absentees, while Ali McCann remains some way off a return after his hamstring injury.

There is more positive news elsewhere, with Alfie Devine having recovered from his calf problem and Caleb Wiley back in contention after returning to training.

Liam Lindsay is another player Alexander will be monitoring, having suffered a significant dead leg against Wrexham. His availability remains a question mark ahead of Tuesday night’s fixture.

Sheffield United Team News

Wilder has considerably more immediate concerns, with four players facing late fitness tests ahead of the trip to Lancashire.

Kalvin Phillips picked up an ankle problem during the victory over Wrexham, although he managed to play on after receiving treatment. Wilder has suggested the swelling has settled, but his availability remains uncertain.

Patrick Bamford is also a doubt after missing Friday’s fixture with a shoulder problem. The striker has been working outside and Wilder is hopeful of having him available, although a late decision is expected.

Joe Rothwell withdrew from the squad after picking up a groin problem during the warm-up, while goalkeeper Adam Davies has been struggling with a back issue.

The Blades will definitely be without Liam Kitching, who is suspended after collecting his fifth yellow card against Wrexham.

There are also concerns over Tahith Chong and Romelle Donovan, who both came off during that victory.

Predicted line-ups

Preston North End: Iversen; Offiah, Storey, Hughes; Mills, Thompson, Leroy, Vukcevic; Lang, Kenny, Burgzorg.

Sheffield United: Cooper; Choudhury, Tanganga, McGuinness, Burrows; Cannon, Peck, Phillips, Campbell; Ayew, Brereton Díaz.

Both sides have decisions to make, but Alexander will be hoping his players can finally deliver a performance worthy of turning Preston’s season around.