Frenchman Youl Mawene will not play for several months after damaging knee ligaments in North End's recent defeat at the hands of Newcastle.
Liam Chilvers - whose absence through illness forced Irvine to pair left-back Nolan alongside Neill Collins at the heart of the defence in Monday's 1-1 draw at derby rivals Blackpool - could remain sidelined.
Nolan's performance earned him a ringing endorsement from Irvine and he will continue there should Chilvers remain out as the Lilywhites seek to end a five-match winless streak.
Midfielder Barry Nicholson remains a long-term absentee but winger Ross Wallace has shaken off a knock sustained in Monday's derby and will play.
