PRESTON defender Scott Wiseman has a daunting date with the world champions tonight.

Wiseman's outing for Gibraltar against Germany in Berlin – a European Championship qualifying contest that could end up with a cricket score – means he won't be involved against the Bantams.

Preston are also missing Alan Browne through international commitments but on-loan Aston Villa forward Callum Robinson, who scored a hat-trick in the FA Cup against Havant & Waterlooville on Monday, is expected to feature despite his England under-20s call-up.

Wiseman's absence at right back throws up the biggest conundrum for North End boss Simon Grayson.

Former Huddersfield defender Calum Woods began the season in that role and would be the obvious replacement but he has just returned to training after a hamstring injury.

Tom Clarke, who had a brief loan spell with City under Stuart McCall, could move across from centre half if needed.

Scott Laird has also filled in out of position against Gillingham and Fleetwood last month when Wiseman and Clarke were both missing.

It is a timely return to Deepdale for Preston, who are unbeaten at home, after successive defeats against Rochdale and Swindon knocked the gloss off Grayson's manager of the month award for October.

Had they postponed City's visit because of international calls, it would have left a seven-week gap without a home game in the league. Their next one is not until December 13 against MK Dons.

Grayson said: "We had to make sure we got back to winning ways at Havant. The last thing we wanted was three defeats on the trot."

Preston still sit second, five points off unbeaten leaders Bristol City, after a start that included a run of seven straight wins.

Grayson said: "We've got good depth to the squad and the players who have come in have all shown their capabilities.They have all helped and contributed to where we are in the table.

"We have given ourselves a platform to build on but that is all it is at this moment in time.

"But that goes for Bristol City and all the other teams who are up there near the top of the table at the moment.

"There is still a long way to go and we know we have to keep maintaining our form and our focus."