WILL Atkinson remains Southend United’s main injury doubt for tomorrow’s game with Coventry City at Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers midfielder went off towards the start of the second half against Oxford United with an abdomen injury.

But Blues boss Phil Brown remains confident the 28-year-old will be fit to stay in the starting line-up this weekend.

“Will limped out of the game with Oxford but we’re still very, very hopeful he can play on Saturday,” said the Southend boss.

“We’re having a look at him today but he seems pain free and will hopefully be OK to carry on because he’s an integral part of the team.”

Blues will definitely be without left-back Ben Coker (ankle), centre-back Ryan Inniss (shoulder) and David Mooney (ankle) but Brown hopes to be able to complete a deal for winger Zavon Hines in time for him to be added to the squad.

“The deal is getting closer all the time and hopefully it can be completed in time for the game tomorrow,” said Brown.

“If it is then he will be added to the squad.”

Hines, who has been on trial with the Shrimpers, had a loan spell with Coventry in 2008.