Preston North End boss Alex Neil expects a tough derby with Wigan Athletic

The North End manager envisages a typical derby clash in which there will be much at stake.

Neil’s men need the three points to haul themselves off the bottom of the table, while a Wigan win could move them back into the top six.

Adding a sprinkling of spice to the whole thing is the return of Joe Garner.

He joined the Latics from Ipswich in August, before that having been at Rangers.

It was Rangers who Garner left Preston for in August 2016 after scoring 57 goals during a three-and-a-half year stay.

Neil said: “I’m expecting Wigan to be like a lot of teams who have come up.

“Promoted teams are on a bit of a crest of a wave.

“They are used to winning games and have a really strong mentality.

“Wigan have recruited well, signed a few players and spent a few quid.

“I think they will come here with real confidence, they have given everyone a game.

“They are energetic, in your face,it will be a typical derby game.

“I think it is a good game for us going into the break.”

Wigan’s recruitment which Neil references, was quite extensive.

Josh Windass’ £3m move from Rangers caught the eye, the forward having been on North End’s radar in January.

Garner came for £1.25m, while they dipped into the loan market heavily.

Said Neil: “Wigan have some quality players in their team.