Preston v Exeter preview

Team news ahead of Saturday's League One clash between Preston and Exeter at Deepdale.

Preston manager Phil Brown will be reluctant to make any changes when his side host Exeter at Deepdale. Clarke Carlisle and Barry Nicholson struck a goal in each half to hand North End their first win of the season in a 2-0 success at Chesterfield on Tuesday. Brown's men were good value for their victory and the Deepdale boss has been boosted by the news that youngster Conor McLaughlin is edging closer to full fitness after a hamstring injury sustained in pre-season. Brown said: "In terms of competition for places, Conor McLaughlin is chomping at the bit to get back in." Right-back David Gray is still on the comeback trail after suffering a broken leg against Norwich in early March while midfielder Ian Ashbee could again miss out with a knee problem. Exeter manager Paul Tisdale is hopeful his striking crisis will ease in time for the trip to Lancashire. Daniel Nardiello is closing in on a return and will be given as long as possible to prove his fitness ahead of the game. So will John O'Flynn, although him being ready for the game is more in hope than expectation. Guillem Bauza played 45 minutes on his return from injury in the 2-1 home defeat to Brentford in midweek. He has suffered no reaction and is therefore pushing for a start. Teenage striker Tom Nichols remains on standby should any of them not make it. He impressed against Brentford after coming off the bench to win his side a penalty.