Head coach Mariner has been handed control of all footballing activities after Paul Sturrock was removed from his position on Thursday and handed a business support role.
And the new boss will be forced to make changes to the Pilgrims' defence following Tuesday's 1-0 defeat at Swansea.
On-loan Aston Villa centre-half Shane Lowry is suspended after he was dismissed for two yellow cards at the Liberty Stadium and fellow loanee David Gray is rated doubtful due to a hamstring injury.
Krisztian Timar and Reda Johnson could be recalled to the heart of defence, while another loan player, Cardiff's Darcy Blake, is pushing for a start at right-back.
Midfielder Yoann Folly is an injury doubt after he was substituted early on against Swansea with an ankle injury.
Preston boss Alan Irvine is hoping Billy Jones will be passed fit for the game.
The right-back limped out of Tuesday's goalless draw against Derby after sustaining an ankle injury during the second half.
However, Irvine hopes to have Jones available as North End seek to end a dismal seven-match winless streak in the Championship.
Eddie Nolan replaced Jones against the Rams and will come into contention for a starting role if the former Crewe man is ruled out.
French centre-back Youl Mawene remains sidelined until the new year after damaging knee ligaments in the recent home defeat against Newcastle.
Midfielder Barry Nicholson is also out until 2010 as he recovers from a broken leg.
Sporting Life