PRESTON manager David Moyes says his squad will be fully fit for the weekend, despite being gripped by a flu-bug

Several members of the squad which travelled down to Cardiff last weekend were placed in isolation by club physio Mick Rathbone ahead of North End's stunning 4-0 win.

Those who have picked up the bug have been told to stay away from the club at all costs as precautions arer put into place to ensure the sniffles can't spread.

But a relieved Moyes has confirmed to the Citizen that his squad should be all right before Saturday's game at Plymouth.

He said: "They seem to have overcome it. We have a couple of knocks as well, but we will be OK."

One thing most of the squad will probably be suffering from by the end of this weekend is travel sickness.

As well as the long trip to the south coast, Preston have also played away at Wrexham and Cardiff in the past couple of weeks, prompting cries from the club for better organisation of league fixtures over the Christmas and New Year period.

Moyes said: "I am not so disappointed that we haven't pulled a big name in this round. I am more concerned that we are away from home and so far away at that.

"The fans now face another long trip, as do we, and we can only thank them for remaining so loyal."

Although Plymouth may be a division below North End, they won't be taking naything for granted.

Moyes' back four need to be on red-hot form if they are to dampen the effort of Plymouth's England under-21 striker Ian Stonebridge.

His blistering form - which included scoring two goals against Macclesfield last weekend - has led to him being watched by several Division Two clubs, including Brentford, who are currently considering making a £400,000 bid for him. Argyle have confessed to being unwilling to sell their man while still in the cup.

The flu bug aside, Jon Macken could also be doubtful for Saturday's clash after picking up a neck injury at Cardiff. He will be given the once over today (Thursday) although he is expected to be given the all-clear.

Steve Basham, PNE's injured-jinxed striker, has suffered a further setback after his ankle injury flared up for the third time, putting his return to action back even further.

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