The defender was expected to make his comeback against Middlesbrough but he failed to make an appearance as Preston drew 2-2 with Boro.
Davidson has been out since September after tearing his hamstring while on Scotland international duty and is back in training and hopeful of a return.
Preston have endured mixed fortunes in recent weeks with two draws, two defeats and two victories since their Carling Cup defeat to Tottenham at the end of September.
But they remain in the top 10 in the Championship and will be keen to bolster their prospects with victory over Neil Warnock's men.
Midfielder Barry Nicholson remains out with a broken leg but Irvine has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from.
