Preston midfielder Kevin Nicholls faces up to six weeks on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury in a reserve game against Tranmere.An MRI scan revealed the former Leeds United man had damaged a cartilage during the 2-0 win at Prenton Park on Monday.

North End boss Alan Irvine told the club's official website: "My first thoughts were that is was a bad one and he was hurt quite a lot in the challenge but we need to get it checked out.

"An initial MRI scan has revealed cartilage damage and that means that he will probably need an operation.

"Kevin will see a consultant next Tuesday and if he agrees with our diagnosis then he will have an operation which will probably keep him out of action for four to six weeks."

More Football News from TEAMtalk