Manchester United youngster Danny Welbeck has returned to Old Trafford from his loan spell at Preston as he requires a knee operation.
Welbeck had been set to remain at Deepdale until the end of the season but his injury blow has put an end to his stay with the Championship side.
Preston boss Darren Ferguson, son of United boss Sir Alex, said: "I'm not looking at the moment to replace him. He's having the op, so he's got to go back."
It is thought the striker will now miss the remainder of the season, although no official statement has been made by Manchester United.