DANIEL Bentley and Will Atkinson could both be back in contention for Southend United’s clash at Dagenham & Redbridge tomorrow.

Shot-stopper Bentley has missed Blues’ last three games with a groin problem while midfielder Atkinson was forced out last Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Wycombe Wanderers after suffering a shoulder injury.

However, Shrimpers boss Phil Brown expects the duo to train today and also be available for this weekend’s visit to Victoria Road.

“Hopefully Dan and Will will both be back in full training today and will be passed fit for the game,” said Brown.

“Dan played in a game we had behind closed doors on Wednesday and he’s suffered no reaction in his groin which is great news for us.

“He needs to be able to kick if he’s going to play but hopefully he will be throwing his 100 per cent fit ring in to the hat and, with a bit of luck, Will will do the same.”

Atkinson had started 12 of the last 14 games before being forced to the sidelines and will now be pushing for a recall.

But Brown believes it will be a tough test for whoever he selects in his starting line-up.

“Dagenham were in the bottom two before Christmas but they’ve done well since then so we’re going to have to bring our best game to the party if we’re to get the result we want,” said the Blues boss.

“I know their manager Wayne Burnett well, he’s a good friend of mine and he’s an arduous, very hard working manager.

“He’s got himself an ageing striker in Jamie Cureton who is scoring a few goals and he won’t be resting on them being in mid-table so it’s certainly going to be a real test for us there.”

Brown also stressed the need to be defensively strong against the Daggers.

And he also revealed he was in talks to bring in another new loan ahead of the game.

“There’s a possibility of getting one in before the weekend but a lot of things have to happen for it to go through,” said Brown.

“We’re working on it and while I won’t say what position it is it’s definitely not a striker. “