We've shown what we are capable of - Vukcevic

Preston left-back Andrija Vukcevic wants to help turn North End's fortunes around after his return to action.

A recurring hamstring injury has seen the 29-year-old Serbia defender limited to just four substitute appearances since October, the latest in Saturday's 4-0 defeat at Middlesbrough which followed a seven-game lay-off.

Three wins in 11 Championship games since the start of December has seen the Lilywhites slip to ninth, having spent the majority of the season in the play-off places.

He told BBC Radio Lancashire: "I am finally back, I am feeling good, I have been working hard to come back as quick as I can. I am just happy to be able to perform again.

"It's been a bad run of games but we have already shown this season what we are capable of doing so I think we will bounce back quick.

"We are focused on improving. We have an opportunity to turn around on Saturday (at Ipswich, 15:00 GMT).

"The atmosphere in the dressing room is still positive, everyone is focused on improving, that's the most important thing.

"It's just a bad run and everyone will try to turn this around."

The 22-cap Montenegro star revealed he has been supporting his compatriot Milutin Osmajic following his latest disciplinary indiscretion - a red card for headbutting Hull's John Lundstram on 20 January.

"We have been talking a lot," Vukcevic said. "I feel sorry for him. He's been playing really well and this kind of thing happens and sets you back a bit, because he needs to be here to help the team, score goals and focus on football.

"He has to learn how to handle those situations, to be smarter in such a situation. He knows he made mistakes and I hope it won't happen again."