PAUL McKenna is hoping Preston North End can do what his childhood team Manchester City did -- and go from the Second Division to the Premiership in successive seasons.
The 23-year-old left winger has played every North End league game this season, helping them to seventh place in the First Division table ahead of tomorrow's trip to fellow promotion hopefuls West Brom.
"We could go straight up if we get the rub of the green like City did," joked McKenna, who, despite being a Blues fan as a youngster, has been at North End since he was 14-years-old, along with goalkeeper David Lucas, who turned 23 yesterday.
"When you get a run in the team it breeds confidence. In previous seasons, I tended to be in and out of the side and when it's like this, you know that a bad performance could mean you are out and then you tend to put more pressure on yourself.
"I have taken a while to come through but it is nice to get a run. The gaffer has given me chance. He's given me regular games this season, I have probably matured and am stronger. The whole team is playing well and it can only help me improve.
"But saying that, I am kept on my toes all the time, knowing that people like Carts (Lee Cartwright) and Robbo (Steve Robinson) are breathing down my neck. And there are some good youngsters coming up through the youth set up to add to the pressure." McKenna has a lot of respect for his team-mates, especially in the midfield where he's slotted in so nicely this term.
"Greegs (Sean Gregan) has moved out of midfield and into the centre of defence this season but he can do well anywhere. He is good in the centre of the park, good on the ball and gets stuck in and he is strong.
"Appy (Michael Appleton) scored a wonder goal the other week and he has played really well, as has Ranks (Mark Rankine), all across the midfield."
The Baggies are another formidable prospect but after wins over Fulham and Watford, the Deepdale side have no fear.
"We're not scared of anybody. Everyone is a tough game -- and we've got Fulham and Burnley coming up. We have done ourselves justice so far," added McKenna.
Manager David Moyes reports no new injuries for the game.
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