PRESTON striker Steve Basham is making good progress after his horrific broken leg.

Basham suffered the injury in North End's 1-0 win over Tranmere in October -- after he'd scored the winning goal.

It came as the former Southampton man was just securing a regular place up front for the Deepdale side -- but boss David Moyes has said the 23-year-old has remained in good spirits.

"It was a very bad injury, but he has never been in plaster and Steve has done great," said the Deepdale chief.

"He has been able to swim, cycle and keep working on his upper body strength.

"We are waiting to see a specialist to have a look at his leg but we are still looking at next season, anything earlier would just be a bonus.

"We try and keep him involved. He comes to games, gets on with the lads and has continued his extra work.

"I know it's not the same as playing and Bash will know that as well but I've pencilled his return for next season."

Basham's return will be a boost for Moyes who has made sure it's a fight up front for the starting places.

David Healy, a £1.5m buy from Manchester United, Jon Macken and Brian McBride are currently fighting it out on the front line and American international McBride will still be at Deepdale next season if Moyes gets his way.

"It's important to have healthy competition.

"We were missing it up front at the start of the season but we've got it there now. We want it in all other areas as well," added Moyes.