ROCK solid defender Colin Hendry enjoyed an impressive debut at North End on Saturday - and he revealed he is just happy to be playing football.

Volunteering to speak to the Press after the game - something almost unheard of at Deepdale - Hendry revealed he feels lucky to still be playing the beautiful game.

In a game against Liverpool for Bolton just after Christmas, Hendry collected an ankle injury.

He said: "Looking back at it, I see how it could have been quite serious. As it was, I just needed to have a bit of bone removed.

"Other players have lost their careers because of injuries like that so in a way I am just grateful to be playing football still.

"It could have been quite different."

North End's chances on goal were heavily restricted on Saturday, making confident defending all the more important.

Hendry said: "Getting the points like this is what matters. It is what made the difference between Bolton going up through the playoffs rather than through automatic promotion last season.

"We have some tough games coming up with Burnley and Millwall and the like. It is important we take the points off them.

"I am here for a month and I am looking forward to playing with this side. What happens after that is up to Davie and Sam Bolton's manager.

"There could be an injury back at Bolton, I just don't know. I am glad to help Preston get to the play-offs if I can."