SOUTHEND United midfielder James Dunne will miss Saturday’s trip to Weymouth with an ankle injury.

Dunne was forced off against Bromley last time out.

But Blues boss Kevin Maher is hopeful Dunne will not be out for as long as first feared.

“He’s a good healer from what we’ve seen and it’s coming along a lot better than we thought he would after the initial outlook on it,” said Maher.

“Fingers crossed he will be back sooner rather than later but I wouldn’t want to put a time on it.”

Blues will again be without midfielder Abu Ogogo who is currently having to rest due to a heart issue while winger Jack Bridge, who was in contention to return after recovering from an ankle problem, misses out with coronavirus.

New signings Harrison Neal and Ollie Kensdale will be in the squad for the first time while Maher will be making a late check on Kacper Lopata’s fitness.

“Kacper is coming down today,” said Maher.

“He will train on Friday and we will see where he is after that.”

Lopata, who this week extended his loan spell with Blues until the end of the season, has missed the last three games with a knee problem.