Preston boss Darren Ferguson plans to ring Stoke City counterpart Tony Pulis to try to extend the loans of Michael Tonge and Danny Pugh. The Potters pair are currently on month-long loans deals at Deepdale and Ferguson is a keen admirer of both men.

He said: "If I could buy them both I would. They are very good players.

"They give you solid performances week-in, week-out and that's what we need right now. I'll be speaking to Tony. We said we would speak when the loans were coming to an end and hopefully there will be some positive news.

"We have managed to get players in and they have made a difference."