COLCHESTER United head coach John McGreal is confident Kurtis Guthrie will be back in action soon - but admits the striker may miss Saturday’s trip to Crewe Alexandra.

Guthrie suffered an ankle injury during last weekend’s draw at Carlisle United and was forced to miss Tuesday’s 2-1 victory against Coventry City, at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

He could now miss the U’s trip to Gresty Road but may feature again when they host Barnet on February 24.

“It’s not as bad as we first feared,” said boss McGreal, who was also without the injured Ryan Jackson against the Sky Blues.

“It’s the same ankle as before but a different part of the foot.

“It’s not like Sean Murray’s ankle injury but we will assess it. He’s had a couple of days’ rest – he hasn’t had it in a boot which is good news so we’re now looking to see what Thursday brings.

“Saturday might come too soon but we’re hoping Barnet might be a possibility.”