Midfielder handed North End future hope

Alan Irvine says out-of-favour midfielder Jason Jarrett could still have a future at Preston after impressing during pre-season.

The 28-year-old looked like he would be on his way out of Deepdale this summer after two frustrating years in which he has barely featured for the club. Indeed he was transfer listed by former boss Paul Simpson in May 2007 and has spent time on loan with Hull, Leicester, QPR and Oldham.

However Jarrett has returned to the club in determined mood and it has not gone unnoticed by Irvine.

The North End boss told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He's done very well. He came back in very good condition and he's worked extremely hard in training.

"He's trying very hard to get himself a chance here. It's a huge year for him and he's got a chance."

He added: "I said, and I meant it, at the end of the season that everyone would start afresh so he's got that opportunity and it's important from his point of view that he takes that opportunity.

"If he doesn't then clearly it will not be good for him as far as being here in concerned. But, if he does there is a chance here for him.

"I'm not looking to move Jason Jarrett out. Obviously we're Preston, and if anybody comes on making enquiries about any of our players then we have to consider their enquiry."