Preston's start to the season was impressive as they mounted their best start to a campaign since 1903.

Having drawn against Bristol City on the opening day, Ryan Lowe put together a remarkable run of six consecutive victories, culminating in their fine display against Birmingham City on 19 September.

Lowe's side were forced to mount a comeback on that Tuesday evening at Deepdale, with Krystian Bielik putting the ball into his own net and Milutin Osmajic completing the turnaround to put them top of the Championship.

But in eight games since then Preston have won just once and slipped from top spot down to sixth in the table, way off pacesetting leaders Leicester and Ipswich.

Will tonight be the night that Preston get back on track?

Blackburn had hovered around the bottom half of the Championship this season as they struggled to put points on the board.

Their results had not always matched their performances on the pitch, but they have surged up the table courtesy of their better recent form.

Sunday's win against Norwich City lifted Jon Dahl Tomasson's side into the top half and into play-off contention.

Almost one year on from a chastening defeat by Preston at Ewood Park, can Tomasson mastermind a victory that could mean they move above their Lancashire rivals in the table?

Image source, Rex Features

On the eve of another international break, another English Football League gameweek begins.

Blackburn take on Preston in tonight's Lancashire derby with these two teams coming into the match with contrasting fortunes of late.

Can Rovers make a break into the top six at the expense of their near neighbours? Or will North End's revival continue after last weekend's win against Coventry?

Kick-off is coming soon.