Leyton Orient manager Kenny Jackett could once again be without forward Paul Smyth who has missed majority of the season so far.

The 24-year-old joined from QPR in the summer but has struggled with injuries and therefore failed to make the impact that was expected when he arrived at the O’s.

Orient will now host Hartlepool United at the Breyer Group Stadium on Saturday and are expected to be without the Northern Ireland international at their disposal after missing the goalless draw with Stevenage.

“He felt his hamstring, it’s the left one, the other one to where he was out before. That’s obviously frustrating as he hasn’t really got going for us yet, but the good thing is it’s not as bad as last time.

“Possibly a week, maybe two, that’s where it is. Frustration with Paul as he has showed glimpses of it, but hasn’t been able to get a regular run of games yet.”

The boss is considering all of his options to improve the play going forward although he has been pleased with his side defensively.

The O’s have been using a 3-5-2 or a 3-4-3 predominantly but Jackett is open to changing things up once again if needs be – having drawn five of their last six league fixtures.

“Definitely, we’ve got good width at the right time with our full-backs and in terms of our service.

“We need to find the right combination up front, backing the right people, and as you say making sure we come up with something that does get us the goals. We can’t keep relying on being good defensively all of the time.

“We look solid and while we’ve got a good foothold in every game, it has been disappointing going forward, and that’s the big frustration.”

The O’s have slipped down ninth in the League Two after 14 matches played with eight of those being draws while picking up four wins and just two defeats.

“I’m disappointed right now because of the run of results, we are solid and have a good compete level about us, which is good but we need to build on that further especially if we want to be contenders.”

The O's are also hoping midfielder Callum Reilly and defender Adam Thompson can be available for selection in the near future.