Ahead of Friday night's derby against Preston North End, we caught up with George Hodgson from The Lancashire Post to get the lowdown on Paul Heckingbottom's side.

How have PNE progressed since Heckingbottom came in?

North End have been more adaptable and fluid - pragmatic at times but aggressive and brave is the aim for Heckingbottom.

The circumstances in which he arrived cannot be forgotten; it wasn't an easy job to walk into with ten days left of the transfer window, pre-season done and the first two games of the season lost.

There have been a few poor showings but also lots of games where North End ought to have picked up more points - 13 games have been drawn. Just six defeats in his 27 games managed reflects pretty well; PNE teams should be tough to beat.

He is gradually trying to make them a grittier, nastier outfit and there have been some encouraging recent signs in that regard.

You've made a couple of additions this month, how have they settled and do you expect many more?

The early signs from Lewis Gibson have been very positive. He looks like he's been wearing a Preston shirt for many years... a fierce competitor, assured in possession and athletically sound.

Heckingbottom wanted a centre-back and a left wing-back and he's got both of those through the door. Jayden Meghoma is the other recruit on loan from Brentford.

PNE's boss felt he was ready to step straight on to the Championship stage and he was excellent on debut at Watford. Meghoma looks a top talent and he should have an impact on the remainder of North End's season.

What are PNE's main strengths, as a team and individually?

When North End get it right they're in the opposition's face, winning duels and hunting the ball high, with the likes of Mads Frokjaer and Sam Greenwood influential in attacking midfield - along with the blistering pace of the relentless Kaine Kesler-Hayden.

Up top Milutin Osmajic and Emil Riis are both dangerous on their day as is Will Keane, although he's struggled to hit the heights of last season. On the whole Freddie Woodman's net has been protected well this season by those in front of him.

Where can they be exposed?

PNE have looked solid in a lot of matches but they have occasionally been caught out with pace in behind their wide centre-backs - though Liam Gibson should help in that respect.

Occasionally, goals have gone in when very few chances have been given away in the game and Freddie Woodman has made the odd error - though the number one heads into the derby in a decent place after two strong showings.

Score prediction?

Blackburn 0-1 PNE