Lilywhites land Trotter

The 23-year-old was recalled from his loan spell with Division Thee club Rochdale in order to join the First Division club for the remainder of the season.

The Lilywhites will take over Smith's Reebok Stadium contract until the season's end and he will provide extra competition on the left-hand side of midfield with the Deepdale squad.

With American international Eddie Lewis currently suffering a slight hernia problem while Lee Briscoe is still to return to full fitness, Smith will be a welcome addition for Preston at this stage.

The former Hartlepool United player will now have the opportunity to show his abilities in Division One, with Preston still aiming for a play-off place this term.

Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Brian O'Neil will be out for four months after undergoing successful knee surgery on Wednesday.