Peterborough United host Preston North End at the ABAX Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Darren Ferguson's men will look to build on last Saturday's 2-1 victory at Leyton Orient when they entertain Preston North End at the ABAX Stadium in Sky Bet League One action.

Posh could move into the play-off positions with a victory, but will face a stubborn North End, who are currently occupying fourth position in the table.

'Preston are a very experienced side and they are very hard to beat, particularly if they manage to get in front. They are a stubborn side to play against and they don't concede many goals. I don't think they have conceded in six games away from home, which is a pretty good record.

'They are missing Joe Garner, but they have plenty of threats in attack. Jermaine Beckford knows where the back of the net is and Paul Gallagher is a clever player. We know it will be a tough game, but it is one we are looking forward to.

'Our home form of late hasn't been great, we know that, and we have to improve. If you are going to have a good season, it is often based on the home form, so we have to put in better performances,' Ferguson said.

Marcus Maddison remains a doubt with an ankle injury, but has trained this week. He missed the win at Orient due to illness. Jon Taylor is set to return in the New Year following a knee injury, while Joe Newell is suspended. Jack Baldwin remains a long-term absentee.

Former Wolves striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake will be given time to earn a contract with League One side Preston North End, says manager Simon Grayson. Ebanks-Blake has been without a club since being released by Ipswich in May.

The 28-year-old has so far failed to win a deal after trial spells at other Football League clubs. 'We have said 'you can stay as long as you want because we want a striker and you are looking for a club',' Grayson told BBC Radio Lancashire.

Tickets for Saturday's game remain on sale at www.theposhtickets.com, via the Ticketmaster hotline 0844 847 1934 and in person at the Box Office.

Ahead of kick-off and during the half-time interval, the crowd will be entertained by carols from the Peterborough Cathedral Choir.