Matt Hill was as surprised as anyone when Preston bid for his services back in January 2005.

The left back thought that the scouts were there watching team mates Danny Coles and Leroy Lita and when he heard of the interest he jumped at the chance to move on.

After coming through the ranks at Bristol City, Hill went on to make over 200 appearances following his debut back in November 1998 - a match to forget as far as City were concerned as they were thumped 6-1 at home by Wolves.

Double Play-Off heartbreak will always be a lasting memory of his time at Ashton Gate, but the 24-year-old felt the time was right to move on, not in the least because he was keeping his younger cousin Scott Golbourne out of the side.

Hill made his North End debut a week later and went on to make 17 appearances in the second half of the season, producing consistently good performances at left back, or on occasion left midfield.

Injuries hampered his progress in his first full season with four separate spells out on the sidelines but he still managed 29 appearances.

Last season, Hill was one of the most consistent performers, starting 41 matches and culminating in him being named Player of the Season at the end of season awards ceremony. The only thing missing from his game was that elusive first goal but he did go close - on several occasions.

Hill is a fans favourite at North End but that tag failed to guarantee him a place in the side this season due to the excellent form of Callum Davidson. Even so, the reliable performer has still managed to accumulate over 20 starts this term.