There is a big test awaiting Ryan Lowe’s side against the League One champions but he would also argue it’s a tough time to play PNE.
There have been six incomings so far this summer, with Freddie Woodman, Dai Cornell, Ben Woodburn, Robbie Brady, Troy Parrott and Alvaro Fernandez all joining the club, the latter two on loan.
But what will Lowe’s first team of the season look like? We give it a go predicting it.
9. LWB: Robbie Brady
One of the standouts of pre-season, the Irishman already looks set to be a key player this season for Ryan Lowe's side. His quality of delivery could be the difference in games at this level. Photo: Clive Brunskill
10. ST: Emil Riis
Last season's top scorer will be the man PNE pin their hopes on again this season. His first season hitting the 20 goal mark in PR1, he will be looking to follow that up. Photo: Clive Brunskill
11. ST: Ched Evans
One that may not prove to be correct, but due to Troy Parrott only having a week at the club, it could be that we see Ched Evans start on Saturday. He looks very sharp and caused Premier League Leicester City plenty of problems in his last outing. Could soften up the Latics ready for the introduciton of the Spurs loanee. Photo: Clive Brunskill