Preston Suffer Welbeck Injury Woe

Preston on-loan striker Danny Welbeck could return to parent club Manchester United after breaking down in training on Wednesday.

The 19-year-old, who missed North End's last three matches, suffered a reaction to a knee injury during a session at United's training ground.

"His knee swelled up after training," Ferguson told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"He'll have another scan on Monday but it's not looking good. It's a blow but we'll have to get on with it."

Welbeck became Darren Ferguson's first signing after taking over at Deepdale in January.

The England under-21 international, who had previously scored five goals for United, made his debut against Ferguson's former club Peterborough later that month.

He went on to score twice in three games, including a late winner against Ipswich on his home debut four days later.

But the Manchester-born forward has been sidelined since injuring his knee during the 3-0 defeat by Newcastle on 20 February.

"It's a blow for the lad because he was really enjoying it here," said Ferguson.

"He was at the game on Tuesday and the lads were pleased to see him. He was looking bubbly and raring to come back.

"I got the phone call off the physio and knew by his tone of voice it wasn't good news.

"Hopefully if the scan shows on Monday that there's no operation needed then there's a possibility he will come back. But I'm not overly optimistic about it."