Stefan Stam (pictured) had to pull out of Athletic's team at Southend after injuring a hamstring in a training session on Friday. The extent of the injury is still not known but it is possible that he could be out for up to six weeks.On loan goalkeeper Michael Poke was also injured in training on Saturday before the Southend game. The squad were training at Gravesend & Northfleet's training ground when Poke was hit on the chin with the ball in a freak accident. The ball deflected onto the tip of his index finger which began to bruise immediately. He could be out of action for three weeks as x-rays have confirmed that he has suffered a hairline fracture. His current loan spell only runs until 17th September.
Gareth Owen was also a casualty during the match at Roots Hall when he fell awkwardly. After treatment he made it through to the final whistle but he needed an ice pack on his groin whilst travelling home.
With Danny Hall (knee), Chris Swailes (heel) and Will Haining (hamstring) still as long term casualities and Guy Branston (calf) also under treatment, it's a good job that Athletic have a large squad.