Manager Darren Ferguson has confirmed that Danny Welbeck will return to Manchester United and will have an operation on his injured knee.

The frontman, who scored two goals in eight starts for the Lilywhites picked up the injury in training ahead of the home game against Cardiff and despite hopes the injury could be managed cautiously, is has been decided he needs to be operated on.

Speaking after the draw with Sheffield Wednesday, Ferguson said: "He is having an op, so he goes back. I'm not looking at the moment to replace him. I'm happy with the three we've got. Neil's scoring goals at the moment; I thought Browny was decent tonight and Parky has been in good form recently."