PAOLO Di Canio is faced with a potential defensive crisis for this weekend's fixture against Southend, the Advertiser understands.

Swindon will already be without Alberto Comazzi with the Italian serving a one-match ban after picking up two yellow cards against Rotherham.

That means Joe Devera will likely come into the side, but it is understood that Aden Flint has picked up an injury that looks likely to rule him out for this weekend's game.

Alessandro Cibocchi, who can play both left-back and centre-back, is also believed to be doubtful.

Town captain Oliver Risser, who often plays centre-back for Namibia, is an option after returning to full fitness.

He suffered a thumb injury in training today, but it will not keep him out of contention for Saturday's game.

Di Canio is on the hunt for a loan defender, but it is unlikely that he will be able to bring anyone in before Saturday's game.