Kenny returns to Preston starting XI for Wrexham trip despite injury doubts

Johnny Kenny has made an unexpected return to Preston North End's starting XI for Saturday's match at Wrexham, according to the Lancashire Post. Manager Graham Alexander had suggested on Wednesday that the striker was unlikely to feature, having missed the previous two games, but Kenny is leading the line in Wales.

Preston suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Birmingham City in midweek, a result that cost Alexander several players. Liam Gibbs sustained an injury whilst Stanley Mills was sent off at St. Andrew's, compounding existing absences. Lewis Gibson and Caleb Wiley remain unavailable despite the latter returning to training.

Alexander has opted to retain his 3-4-3 formation and made two additional changes to the side. Liam Lindsay and Andrija Vukcevic come into the XI, replacing Mills and Thierry Small. Brad Potts has returned to the substitute bench after missing recent matches.

Both sides arrive in desperate need of victory. Wrexham also suffered midweek disappointment, losing 2-1 at home to West Brom, and manager Phil Parkinson faces pressure as his side contends with seven unavailable players. The clash at the Racecourse already carries significance in what both clubs view as a crucial stage of their campaign.