SOUTHEND United midfielder Ryan Leonard has suffered a torn groin muscle and is expected to miss out on Saturday’s clash against Northampton Town.

Leonard suffered the injury at Tranmere Rovers last weekend and was forced to come off at half-time.

But Blues boss Phil Brown hopes to soften the blow by completing the signing of Gary Deegan whose initial three month deal with the club has now expired.

“Lenny has gone for a scan on his groin and we’re still waiting for those results but our initial diagnosis is that he’s suffered a grade one tear, which is the least serious type of injury,” confirmed Brown.

“At the moment I would be very surprised if he was fit enough to play against Northampton at the weekend but where Ryan is concerned you can never be too sure.

“It’s obviously a blow if he is unavailable because he’s an important player and he’s playing well at the moment too.

“But it becomes even more of a problem if we’re without Gary Deegan too so we’re hoping to try and resolve that situation.”

Deegan made 12 appearances for the Shrimpers during his initial 12 week deal with the club and revealed in Echosport yesterday he was keen to remain at Roots Hall.

Brown also wants to keep the Irishman and will hold further talks with him this week.

“The talks with Gary are ongoing and it’s something I want to resolve because I want to keep him here,” said the Blues boss.

“He’s done well during his time here and, now with Lenny out injured, it’s even more of a no brainer that we want him to stay.”