North End's deadline day recruit Alex Baptiste is looking forward to a new challenge at Deepdale.
The defender joined PNE on a season-long loan from Middlesbrough, and is looking forward to the season ahead.
Speaking of his move, the 30-year-old said: "It will be good to be back playing again. Obviously I know a lot about the North West so I’m really looking forward to the challenge.
"I know how passionate the fans are and obviously I have played here a few times and the stadium is great. Like I said I know the area quite well so I’m looking forward to it."
Baptiste, who will wear the No. 27 shirt at Deepdale, has played under manager Simon Grayson in the past, and admits that his relationship with first team coach Steve Thompson played a part in his move.
"I saw Tommo at Brett Omerod’s testimonial and we had a good chat. Obviously I played under the gaffer as well, but not for too long before he moved on but obviously I know Tommo really well and I class him as a friend so he was instrumental to me coming here.
"I've played with Tommy Spurr and I’ve played with Becks as well. It’ll be good to see some friendly faces because it’s always daunting when you first go into a changing room."
With over a week to go before the next game due to the international break, Baptiste will have plenty of time to get to know the rest of the lads and try to impress the manager ahead of the home game against Barnsley on 10th September.
"I’m really looking forward to that. There’s a little break before there is a first game so I’ll give my all in training and hopefully be in the squad and see where we go against Barnsley."
You can hear more from Baptiste on his move to North End now by clicking on the video below.