Southend United vs Stevenage Borough preview - Head clash duo doubtful

Michael Timlin and Bira Dembele are major injury doubts ahead of the play-off semi-final second leg between Southend and Stevenage.

Shrimpers midfielder Timlin and Boro defender Dembele were involved in a sickening clash of heads during the first leg, which finished 1-1.

Timlin needed 15 stitches in his forehead and has been given only a small chance of playing by boss Phil Brown while Dembele, who had seven stitches, could also be absent although he has not yet been ruled out by Boro chief Graham Westley.

Brown also has a concern over his captain John White, who played on Sunday despite carrying a hamstring injury.

Ryan Leonard (hip) and Will Atkinson (calf) will be checked over as well ahead of the Roots Hall clash.

Westley is also waiting on the fitness of skipper Ronnie Henry, who missed the first leg with a hip injury.

Striker Adam Marriott remains sidelined by a knee problem and utility-man Darius Charles is still recovering from a broken leg.

Goalkeeping coach Dave Beasant, 56, could be on the bench again if his son Sam is not passed fit.