By pnefans.co.uk
March 31 2005

Preston North End's play-off hopes have been dealt a blow with the news that striker Dave Nugent has contracted the mumps virus and may be out for 3 games.

The 19-year-old is expected to return to training on Friday following a 10-day isolation period however Club doctors have warned that then energy sapping symptoms of the illness could keep him out of match action for up to a fortnight.

Nugent has been quarantined on Merseyside since last week, when it is believed he caught mumps from his sister. Despite having a vaccination jab three weeks ago it appeared to come too late and Nugent was struck down last week.

The important thing for the squad is that no one seems to have been affected and this looks to be an isolated case but this hasn't stopped the medical team at Deepdale acting with caution to make sure that it doesn't spread further.

Should Nugent not be ready then Patrick Agyemang will be chomping at the bit to play against his former side.