Preston manager Alan Irvine has dismissed reports linking him with a move for in-demand Stockport midfielder Carl Baker.

The former Morecambe man has bagged ten goals already this season, which has alerted a number of potential suitors from higher divisions.

However, despite the Lilywhites' previous monitoring of the 26-year-old, Irvine told skysports.com that he is not interested in signing the player.

"We try to watch as many lower league games as possible because there is a lot of talent in the divisions below us and we are aware of Carl's ability.

"He has had a great start to the season and funnily enough I know a bit more than others about him because he used to play for Southport, which is where I live.

"However, the talk about us making a move for him is nonsense because he is merely one of a number of players that we have looked at in the past and will continue to do so."

Lilywhites skipper Callum Davidson is closing on a return after recovering from a torn hamstring, but Irvine insists that the Scotland international will not be guaranteed an instant return to the in-form side.

"Callum is back in training with us and he isn't far away from being back in contention now. He could even be in with a chance of making a return at the weekend, but we will have to see because the lads put on a great performance against Sheffield Wednesday last night.

"He is an influential player for us, as most club captains are, but he also brings a wealth of experience to the table which is pretty valuable to most sides.

"However, the guys have continued to do well since he picked up the injury and no player just walks back into the side, especially when the side are doing well and picking up decent results."