Leaders Newcastle are chasing a fourth successive Championship victory and an 11th of the season.
Their success has been partly based on having a strong back four. The Magpies have the best defensive record in the division, with just 10 goals conceded after 16 matches.
Almost two years to the day since he took over as Preston manager, Alan Irvine finds himself trying to arrest a worrying run of results.
Irvine is hoping the signing of midfielder Michael Tongue on loan from Stoke helps the Lancashire side turn a corner after winning only one of their last seven league games.