BLUES midfielder Marc Laird is facing a spell on the sidelines after pulling his hamstring during Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Exeter City.

The Scotsman limped off after just 29 minutes at St James’ Park after attempting to make a sliding challenge.

And Southend boss Paul Sturrock feels Laird will be a big miss.

“Laird having to go off was a big feature in Saturday’s defeat and it’s a real blow for us,” said Sturrock.

“He’s pulled a hamstring and we don’t know how long he will be out for.

“But he’s very doubtful for the game at Brentford tomorrow and it doesn’t look like Britt Assombalonga will be fit either.”