PRESTON manager David Moyes will be without key defender Colin Murdock for the visit of Portsmouth to Deepdale.

The 25-year-old will be facing Malta for Northern Ireland instead while Deepdale midfielder Steve Robinson is also on stand-by for Sammy McIlroy's side.

"It is a big blow as the internationals are usually the better players," admitted manager David Moyes. "It is a disadvantage for us. If we had three it would have been called off but we could lose two."

Skipper Sean Gregan could move back into the centre of defence after deputising there for the opening three games for suspended Michael Jackson and the second half of Monday's 1-1 draw with Wimbledon.

And Gregan doesn't have happy memories of Portsmouth's new boss Tony Pulis as, when he was manager of Gillingham, his side knocked Preston out of the Second Division play-offs two seasons ago.

"We were gutted. Usually if you lose on a Saturday you can play a game the week after and try and forget about it. But we had months to think about it," admitted the 26-year-old.

"Knowing their manager, he will have them well-drilled and organised. They've spent quite a lot of money during the summer but, the way we've started, we're confident. We always think we can get a result," added the skipper.

The back line will have to be on top of their game against Pompey who, under knew ownership, have brought in Lee Mills from Bradford for £1.2million and Nigel Quashie for £600,000 among others.

They also have Steve Claridge up front who, in his first game back, scored a hat-trick for Pompey in their victory over Wolves on Monday.

"They are looking to turn a corner and we know it will be a physical game," continued Moyes.

"I think, after investing money, they will be looking for a top half of the table finish and perhaps pushing for a top six spot. They know what it is all about."

The other doubt for Saturday's game is defender Graham Alexander who limped off with an ankle injury during the 2-0 defeat at the Reebok.

Squad: Moilanen, Parkinson, Alexander, Edwards, Gregan, McKenna, Morgan, Appleton, Macken, Basham, Jackson, Rankine, Lucas, Anderson, Cartwright, Eyres, Robinson, Barry-Murphy.