Leaders on a football field are a hugely valuable commodity, so it will come as no surprise to hear that Alan Irvine is beaming after guaranteeing the services of influential full-back Callum Davidson for a further three years.

The 31-year-old Scot, who can also play in central midfield with aplomb, had already seen his deal automatically extended to the end of 2008/09 following sterling work this season, but Irvine was keen to prove Cal's importance to the PNE cause by offering him a brand new deal that extends to the summer of 2011.

"I'm absolutely delighted that he's signing this extension," explained the PNE boss.

"I think he's been fantastic since the day I came in. He's a great professional and a really good player on the pitch. He's performed really well in three different roles for us - central midfield, right-back, and of course left-back, which is where he normally plays. He's been terrific in all three positions.

"As far as things off the pitch are concerned, he's a leader in the dressing room, he's a great pro in training and goes about his work really well every day in training. He has really high standards and is someone the players really look up to.

"He thinks he's looking towards some of the best years of his career, and I think so as well. Given the way he goes about his job, I can't see any reason why he can't continue to play on a regular basis. He's learned how to manage the problems he's got and he knows his own body, and I think he's proven this year that fitness isn't an issue for him.

"He's generally a very fit lad, and he trains so well every day that I'm confident that barring any other kind of unfortunate injury he will play a lot of games for Preston during the period of this new contract.

"We've retained his services as we wanted, and without any question, we would have to pay a lot of money to get someone else in of his experience, quality and character.

"Another great thing is that Callum didn't hesitate as soon as he was offered the contract. When he was offered the chance he snapped it up, and he was very easy to deal with.

"I think he sees that we're trying to do things in the right way and there could maybe be some exciting times to come here. If there are, I'm sure Callum will be a huge part of that."

Callum is undoubtedly one of the fans' favourites here at Deepdale - prove your support for our number three by having Davidson's name and number printed onto your new PNE 2008/09 shirt via MyPNE.com. Season ticket holders can claim £5 off the cost of player shirt printing on production of the relevant voucher from their 2008/09 booklet (instore purchases only).