Boss on Sunday trip to Preston...
THE BIG incentive for us going into the game is increase the gap between ourselves and Preston. If we continue with our recent form, we will go there and give ourselves every chance of coming home with a successful result.We played really well in the home game against them earlier in the season; they will remember that and be smarting from it, so we have to be aware of the threats that they possess.
They have some good players, but having going out of two Cup competitions this week will have set them back.
It's about what we do and we go there with confidence and belief, looking to continue our recent run. The lads are looking forward to the game and we received a timely boost on Friday with the news that Sam Mantom has signed a permanent deal at the club.
He's a great acquisition for us. He's a good young player who understands the game; we know all about him and what he will bring to us, whilst he understands the club and what is required from him.
He has hunger and a determination to progress and I am delighted that it will be with us.
The news comes at the end of what has been a positive week with Mal Benning and Neil Woods both penning new deals at the club.
On the down-side, it was disappointing to see Karl Darlow recalled by Nottingham Forest. It's one of those things and we have contingency plans in place to deal with this news.
It's good for Karl because he will be playing in The Championship at the weekend. He's a good lad and a talented goalkeeper who returns to the City Ground with our best wishes.
I look forward to receiving your backing at Deepdale on Sunday. You've really got behind us in recent game and that support is vital - long may it continue!
DEAN SMITH