Central Coast Mariners recruit Chris Doig is in doubt for Saturday's A-League clash with Sydney FC.

The 28-year old Scottish defender injured his calf in Round 1 against Melbourne Victory, forcing him to miss the Mariners 1-1 draw with Newcastle Jets at home last week.

Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna is keen for the former Northampton Town stopper to play against the Sky Blues but concedes he may not get his wish.

"I want him to play and he wants to play but I don't want a pretty minor injury to turn into something a lot more serious," McKinna said.

"Chris is very professional and has done everything he can in rehab to be right.

"We're hoping he trains on Thursday and if he gets through that OK he'll be in the squad.

"If there's any doubts we'll leave it another week."