Preston boss Alan Irvine was disappointed at being unable to acknowledge the club's supporters after Monday's Coca-Cola Championship play-off semi-final defeat at Sheffield United.

North End lost 1-0 at Bramall Lane as United won 2-1 on aggregate but Irvine was unable to thank the 3,000 travelling fans for their backing.

A number of Blades followers invaded the pitch to celebrate their team's win and Irvine decided against heading towards the Preston fans.

"I have to apologise because I didn`t go over and acknowledge their support," said Irvine.

"I had every intention of doing so but because all of the Sheffield United fans ran onto the pitch I felt it probably wasn't a good idea to be on there.

"I'm disappointed and I'm sorry that I wasn't able to do that."