WARK footballer Brad Potts has taken a step up by signing for Championship side Preston North End.

Potts (24), who started his senior career at Carlisle United, was snapped up by the Lilywhites after impressing with League One side Barnsley. 

He has impressed with Barnsley, scoring seven times already this season, after making the move from Blackpool in 2017. His form, which includes 11 goals in almost 70 appearances in total for the Tykes, convinced North End manager Alex Neil to come knocking for the star who grew up in the North Tyne.

In an interview for Preston's official website, Potts said: "I had a chat with the gaffer when I first got here and he told me what he wanted from me and I am looking forward to hopefully doing that for the team.

"A few lads I have played with have played under the manager at previous clubs and I have spoken to them and they only have good things to say about him, so I am really looking forward to working with him."

As he has already played for Barnsley in the FA Cup this season, the midfielder will not be available to play in Preston's cup tie with Swansea City on Saturday.