Ched Evans to return to action with Preston after getting injury all clear
The PNE forward had surgery on a neck and spine problem
Preston striker Ched Evans has been given the all-clear to return to action after seven months out following surgery on a complicated neck and spine problem.
Welsh forward Evans, 34, revealed in April that he had developed a condition which could have "potentially life-changing consequences", and missed the end of last season as his rehabilitation began.
Evans has been able to build up his match fitness back in training and following clearance from his specialist, the striker is now set to be available for selection again.
Preston sit third in the Sky Bet Championship as they prepare for Saturday's visit of managerless Millwall and North End boss Ryan Lowe confirmed Evans should be involved.
"The biggest news and what everyone is probably waiting for is that Ched Evans will be back in the squad on Saturday, so I'm absolutely over the moon for him, his family and for us as a football club," Lowe said in a pre-match press conference on Thursday.
""It was a bit emotional when we got the news; I actually rang him and started singing his name down the phone.
"They have been through a lot, but he's been training like a trojan in the last few days. I'm really pleased for him and it's a big bonus for us.
"He's a fantastic character around the lads, a leader and that's what we've obviously wanted him to do for us.
"We've missed him, but he is back in the fold and has been with the lads. When you've got someone like Ched Evans available, it is a big, big plus."
Lowe admitted he had initially feared Evans might not be able to resume his career, such was the seriousness of the issue.
"He saw a couple of surgeons and one said something along the lines of: 'I am surprised you're sitting in front of me in a chair and not a wheelchair' - which was hard for him, his wife and us as well, because we had to get that news," Lowe said.
"To get a second opinion, third opinion and then see a specialist for those type of operations was massive for him, the family and us.
"He had a bit of a setback not long ago, where the bone hadn't grown. but, he was walking and running which was a big plus, and once we got the news that it had grown a bit more then he could join in full contact.
"He has had that, so we're all delighted for him and over the moon that he's available for selection." Hear all the latest news from across Lancashire on the hour, every hour, on 97.4FM, DAB, at rockfm.co.uk, and on the Rock FM app.