SOUTHEND United left-back Ben Coker is not facing an extended spell on the sidelines with a thigh problem.

Coker has missed Blues’ last two pre-season friendlies and will also sit out tomorrow’s clash at Ebbsfleet United.

But Shrimpers boss Phil Brown expects the 28-year-old to be back in time to face Cambridge United next weekend.

“We’ve got the scan results back now and thankfully it’s only a small problem for Ben,” said Brown.

“He should probably be OK towards the end of next week and the game against Cambridge.”