'When he hits it, it stays hit'

Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic marked his return to the squad with a goal into the top corner during their 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday on New Year's Day.

The Montenegro international was banned for nine games in November after being charged with racially abusing Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri.

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The game against the Owls was his first since their 2-1 win over Swansea City, where he also found the net.

"That tends to be his stock finish," Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"He knows where the goal is. It's not always the best option, sometimes a bit of guile is the best way to go but certainly, a lot of the goals he scores which maybe others wouldn't, are that type of finish.

"It's instinctive. When he hits it, it stays hit."

Winger Lewis Dobbin also made his comeback at Deepdale, with Heckingbottom stressing the importance of having his attacking options back in the mix as the side aim for promotion this season.

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"I know Wednesday tried but that's one advantage we have in terms of squad size when we've got people fit," the 48-year-old added.

"The biggest thing for me is having those attacking options at the top end of the pitch which is really important.

"Whoever we start with, being able to bring on energy, aggression and quality at the top end of the pitch whether you're winning or losing is a big thing.

"To have those two back added to what we had up there was good."

Preston are sixth in the Championship table, four points behind the automatic promotion places.

Listen to Heckingbottom's full post-match interview and more Preston North End content on BBC Sounds.