Keith Keane is closing in on full match fitness and is looking forward to hopefully playing his part in John Dreyer’s side to face the table-toppers on Saturday.
The North End No.2 made his comeback from ankle ligament problems - sustained in the same game Scott Laird broke his leg, against Notts County back in November – in what proved to be Graham Westley’s final game in charge at Yeovil Town on Tuesday night.
He came on in a midfield role, a position he knows well from his time with Luton Town, but admits he is just happy to be back involved, wherever he plays.
“I have played in midfield for many years and I feel comfortable playing there,” he exclusively told PNE.Com after the team’s first session under the caretaker boss. “It was nothing new to me on Tuesday night and I am happy to be back out there with the lads on the pitch.
“Our form hasn’t been good so far this season, but the lads all came in on Thursday morning and are determined to put Tuesday night’s result firmly behind us.
“We are all looking forward to Saturday’s game against AFC Bournemouth and we will be trying to win maximum points.
“I am not fully match fit yet, but I am getting closer and closer. I have been back in training for the past ten days or so after two and a half months out on the sidelines. But I am back in the squad and if I am selected this weekend I will give it my all.”
The opponents couldn’t be harder than this weekend for the Lilywhites, however, with the team at the npower League One summit unbeaten since Eddie Howe returned to the Goldsands Stadium after a spell with North End’s east Lancashire rivals Burnley.
“They are flying in League One,” continued Keane. “They are playing really well and they are top of the league for a reason. We will give it our best and hopefully that will be enough to pick up all three points.
“Whoever is in charge of the team I will always give them my best and play at 100 per cent and I am sure the rest of the lads do as well.
“The lads enjoyed Thursday’s session and that is the main thing. It has been a good session and the lads just want to get out there on Saturday now and get the three points for the fans.”