PRESTON take a depleted squad over the Pennines tonight, hampering their hopes of pulling off a cup upset.

North End, struggling to find their form of late, travel to tackle First Division Sheffield United in the Worthington Cup second round first leg. David Moyes' side will be missing several key players, including suspended skipper Sean Gregan, but keeper David Lucas returns from his own ban.

Casualties from Saturday's league clash with Burnley include midfielder Michael Appleton (ankle) and striker Steve Basham (knee), who are both rated very doubtful.

North End's faithful fans have been named as the best supporters in Division Two, with the highest home attendances and a fantastic away following. The return leg will be played at Deepdale on September 21.

Squad: Moilanen, Alexander, Ludden, Murdock, Jackson, McKenna, Cartwright, Rankine, Nogan, Basham, Eyres, Appleton, Edwards, Macken, Kidd, Lucas.

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