FRANCIS Laurent is doubtful for Monday night’s Essex derby at Colchester United.

And the Shrimpers will also need to check on the fitness of Damian Scannell.

Laurent has picked up a knee problem while Scannell limped out of training earlier on today to leave manager Steve Tilson concerned.

“Francis has tweaked medial ligaments in his knee and Damian is also now getting treatment,” said Tilson.

“Hopefully they will be fine though because we’re short of options right now.”

Blues are already definitely without Alan McCormack (suspended), Anthony Grant (ankle) and Stuart O’Keefe (suspected hernia) while Scott Vernon and Pat Baldwin cannot play due to the terms of their loan agreements from Colchester.

Second choice goalkeeper Ian Joyce is also a doubt with a neck injury.