Sheffield Utd v Preston preview

Team news for Saturday's League One clash between Sheffield United and Preston North End at Bramall Lane.

Sheffield United striker James Beattie will return to contention following suspension. Beattie's availability after a three-game ban will add more competition for places up front as recent signing Will Hoskins is also pushing for his first start for the club. Leading goalscorer Ched Evans is expected to continue, while manager Danny Wilson also has Richard Cresswell, Chris Porter and Danny Philliskirk at his disposal. Midfielder Lee Williamson missed the midweek win at Huddersfield due to a calf problem and remains doubtful. If Williamson fails to make it, Ryan Flynn will continue in midfield, with the fine form of Kevin McDonald and central midfield partner Michael Doyle keeping Nick Montgomery on the bench. The Blades, two points better off than third-placed Sheffield Wednesday with two games in hand, have won 10 of their last 12 league matches. Meanwhile, Preston's midweek matchwinner Danny Mayor is pushing for a start when Graham Westley's side travel to high-flying Sheffield United. The 21-year-old winger came off the bench to notch the only goal of the game from 25-yards against Hartlepool, giving Westley his first victory in the Deepdale hotseat. Elsewhere in midfield, Paul Coutts serves the second game of a two-match ban for collecting his 10th yellow card of the season in the defeat at Yeovil in January. Iain Hume returned to action in the 2-1 reserve win over Tranmere on Wednesday following a lengthy lay-off with a hamstring injury, although it is unclear whether the Canadian forward is ready to resume first-team duties at this stage. Craig Morgan is back from a one-match ban to bolster Westley's options at the heart of defence, while full-back Jamie McAllister is due to play the last game of his loan spell from Bristol City. Striker Neil Mellor (knee) remains a long-term injury victim.