Preston North End manager Alan Irvine believes the club's fans can play a crucial role in the Lilywhites' survival bid.The North End boss believes supporters have been "encouraged" by recent performances and has called on them to continue their vocal support until the end of the campaign.

"The fans have been great and we need them to continue to be great," he told the club's official website.

"I think they are getting encouraged by what they are seeing on the pitch.

"I know the feedback I get from everyone I see around the ground or in the street. Anyone that writes in, everyone has been very supportive.

"Everyone has been very encouraged by what they have seen and that obviously helps when they are turning up to the game because they are hoping to see something positive from the team."

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