Scimeca not played since March after suffering a groin injury against Sunderland. He made a comeback for the reserves this season but a further injury will keep him out for a few more weeks.
He knows he faces a battle to get back in the side when he is fit.
He told the Echo: "Stephen and Gavin have done a terrific job and I know I face a fight to get back in. But that's exactly what we need - players battling to earn their place.
"Our downfall last season when we promised so much and failed to deliver was because we did not have enough competition for places. Now that's changed. There is a lot of strength in depth and there are options.
"When I am ready to play first team football again I will initially provide another option - and we will see how things develop."