DEFENDER Paul Reid is likely to be ruled out of action for at least a week after being left out of Scunthorpe United's squad for Portsmouth.

The Iron centre-back suffered a rib injury in Saturday's defeat at Bristol City, with boss Ian Baraclough revealing he is still in considerable pain.

It means David Mirfin was required to make the trip to the south coast, himself just on his way back from a thigh problem.

"Paul had an X-ray to see whether there was any damage there," Baraclough explained.

"But the consultant couldn't see any, so it is probably a cartilage problem inbetween the ribs.

"We don't know how long he might be out for.

"It depends how severe it might be and how quick a healer he is.

"I've had the injury myself and it could take anywhere from a week to 10 days or longer.

"Anything like sneezing or coughing and taking a deep breath is very painful for him."

Baraclough revealed he was planning to leave Mirfin behind for tonight's reserve game at Grimsby Town.

"But with the injury to Paul Reid he's travelled with us," he said.

Niall Canavan and Rob Jones are however, set to feature in that game.