NEAL Trotman has returned to Preston, following the end of his loan spell at Saints.

The 22-year-old centre back moved to St Mary's on a temporary deal in August from the Championship side.

Trotman helped shore up the defence after his arrival, but struggled to hold down a regular place in Alan Pardew's side over the past few weeks.

Trotman made 18 appearances for Saints, scoring twice - in the 3-1 wins at Southend and home to Exeter.

Pardew said earlier this week he planned to talk to Preston about extending the defender's loan spell.

However, following the dismissal of Alan Irvine as manager at Deepdale, Preston have decided to bring Trotman back, at least for the time being.