The 41-year-old Potters manager took charge of nearly 200 league games in a close-to four-year spell with the Lilywhites before moving to Sunderland, just as his predecessor Simon Grayson had done.
The Scot switched to the bet365 Stadium at the back end of August following Michael O’Neill’s dismissal and has collected nine points from seven fixtures since.
North End, meanwhile, relinquished their unbeaten league record on the road when losing out to Bristol City at Ashton Gate, having taken seven points from games against the Black Cats, West Brom and Norwich City beforehand.
How will Ryan Lowe line his side up for the 14th game of the season at the weekend?
1. Freddie Woodman (GK)
BRISTOL, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 12: Goalkeeper, Freddie Woodman of Preston issues instructions during the Sky Bet Championship between Bristol City and Preston North End at Ashton Gate on October 12, 2022 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Steele
2. Jordan Storey (CB)
Preston North End's Jordan Storey The EFL Sky Bet Championship - Preston North End v West Bromwich Albion - Wednesday 5th October 2022 - Deepdale - Preston Photo: CameraSport - Paul Greenwood
3. Liam Lindsay (CB)
BRISTOL, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 12: Antoine Semenyo of Bristol City is challenged by Liam Lindsay of Preston North End during the Sky Bet Championship between Bristol City and Preston North End at Ashton Gate on October 12, 2022 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Steele
4. Andrew Hughes (CB)
BRISTOL, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 12: Tommy Conway of Bristol City is challenged by Andrew Hughes of Preston North End during the Sky Bet Championship between Bristol City and Preston North End at Ashton Gate on October 12, 2022 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Steele