Michael Tonge has revealed that he is delighted to team up with North End for the busy period of fixtures that the Lilywhites face before the New Year.

The 26-year-old has signed a loan deal which will run until the 28th December and Tonge is relishing the chance to pull on a Preston shirt. He told pne.com:

"When I spoke to my agent and he mentioned that Preston were interested in talking me, I had no qualms because I know what Preston is about and have played against the club many a time.

"There are a few lads down at Stoke who have played for Preston and I know they all thoroughly enjoyed their time up here, so that's always good. It's all happened pretty quickly but I'm delighted."

The midfielder has met up with his new team mates for the first time this morning and he has already underlined his ambitions for the loan spell.

"My initial aim is to try and play as many games here for Preston and enjoy it. I'm basically taking it as an initial loan first and foremost and I'm just going to look forward to the games ahead."

The next three games for North End see's the visit of Newcastle United on Monday night followed by trips to fifth place Blackpool and third place Cardiff City. Tonge believes that a run of tough games will benefit him and he cannot wait to be a part of these games.

"It's typical of the Championship really. I was speaking to the manager who said there are a lot of games coming.

"That's good for me without a doubt and there are some difficult ones with Blackpool second which is going to be an exciting one.

"It's a derby game and I know they're always good and Blackpool are doing really well this season so there are definitely some exciting games to come."

Tonge will be available to play against Newcastle United on Monday night at Deepdale where he is hoping to make his debut for the Lilywhites.

"It's a big game but hopefully it will work in our favour. For myself because I have not been playing, hopefully if the manager plays me then the adrenaline will help me through.

"Obviously I'm eager to play, I'm not 100% match fit at the minute but that will come.

"I'm looking forward to it, it's going to be a difficult game but I'm sure everyone's looking forward to it."

Click here to see PNE Player's extended interview with Michael Tonge.