Preston pick up Williamson

Williamson: Preston new boy

Preston have bolstered their squad with the loan signing of Watford midfielder Lee Williamson.

The 26-year-old has joined North End on loan until the end of the season.

Williamson has made 38 appearances for the Hornets this term and his arrival is something of a coup for Preston.

The former Rotherham man is eligible for all of Preston's remaining fixtures this season, including any potential play-off matches that North End may be involved in.

Preston boss Alan Irvine was delighted to land Williamson after losing Barry Nicholson and Richard Chaplow to injury.

"He's a central midfield player, he's a competitive player, he's comfortable on the ball, he can make a pass, he moves well with the ball," Irvine told the club's official website.

"He's an all-round midfield player, someone who can get forward but someone who is prepared to do the defensive jobs and I am hoping that he strengthens us in that department."