SOUTHEND United centre-back Adam Barrett is a big doubt for Saturday’s clash against Scunthorpe.

The popular defender picked up a hamstring problem just seconds after scoring at Millwall last weekend.

Barrett had the injury scanned yesterday and will soon be seeing a specialist for another assessment.

But, despite not yet knowing how serious the setback will prove to, Shrimpers boss Phil Brown is unsure Barrett will be fit to face the Iron.

“The injury is actually worse than we first thought and Adam is now very doubtful for the Scunthorpe game,” said Brown.

“We initially thought the muscle had gone into spasm but we had a scan done yesterday which showed up a hamstring pull which now needs to be investigated further.

“It looks as though he will be heading to have another scan and only then we will know how bad it is and whether or not it’s grade one or worse.

“At this stage we can’t determine how long Adam will be out for but it’s disappointing because he’s a key player for us.

“He brings a lot to the team and the dressing room and had scored two goals in his last three games as well.”

If Barrett is forced to miss out this weekend, then Luke Prosser could well moved into the middle of the defence alongside Cian Bolger, with Ben Coker returning at left-back.

Coker missed the 2-0 win at Millwall with a hamstring problem.

But Brown hopes to have him back this weekend.

“We’re hoping that Ben will be back in full training today,” said the Shrimpers chief.

“He’s making good progress and it would be brilliant to get him back out there.”

Blues also have on loan Brighton & Hove Albion defender Glen Rea available but skipper John White is still doubtful with a thigh problem.