Preston North End boss Darren Ferguson has underlined the importance of Saturday's match against Portsmouth.

The Lilywhites face a four week break from Deepdale action once Pompey are out of the way before two tricky away trips, a win on Saturday would be a timely one indeed.

"We've only had two league games, we are disappointed that we haven't got any points and that we haven't scored but we have created about 14 or 15 chances and nobody is more disappointed than myself," Ferguson said in an exclusive PNE Player interview.

"I'm not one for panicking but I do know that Saturday is a big, big game for us, you look at the games coming up for us, two away games, tough ones, both winnable don't get me wrong but we have got to make sure we win as many home games as we can."

"I know that if Sean is at it and playing to his ability then we will win a lot more games."

North End's hopes are boosted by the return of Republic of Ireland international centre-half Sean St. Ledger on Saturday. The popular defender has been out of action for three weeks and will be looking forward to marking his former team-mate David Nugent.

Ferguson is just glad to have a fully fit St. Ledger available for selection: "I felt Sean needed an extra week's training, he had only done a couple of days with the lads and a bit with the physio. Sean felt that he was fit [for Swansea], he was disappointed not to be playing, frustrated and that's not a problem for me, I don't want players happy that they are not playing. He's had a good week's training and he will be involved on Saturday.

"I know that if Sean is at it and playing to his ability then we will win a lot more games."

North End need your support as ever this weekend. Make sure you buy your tickets for the big match now on mypne.com or by phoning the ticket office on 0844 856 1966.