Fresh injury blow for Orient defender Mkandawire

5:45pm Thursday 21st August 2008

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ORIENT boss Martin Ling has revealed his disappointment that key-defender Tamika Mkandawire faces another spell on the sidelines.

The former Hereford man saw an excellent first campaign at Brisbane Road blighted by a groin injury that eventually resulted in a hernia operation towards the end of last season.

And Mkandawire, who has continued to struggle with the problem during pre-season and in the first few weeks of the campaign will now miss the visit of Carlisle this weekend.

A disappointed Ling said: “Tam has been struggling again with his groin so we sent him for scans.

“They have revealed a slight tear, although the good news is that it isn't related to the operation he has just had.

“We are not sure exactly what has caused this latest problem, but it maybe a case of where he might of been trying to overcompensate in a certain area because of the original injury.

“The bad blow is that he could be out now for between ten days and two weeks, which is a massive loss to us but hopefully this time we can resolve matters once and for all.”

That time frame is likely to also see Mkandawire miss the following weekend's game at Brighton, and Ling will then have to decide if the Johnstone's Paint Trophy tie with Southend on September 2, would act as an ideal match for the 25-year-old to regain his fitness in.

Meanwhile Ling's only other certain absentee for this weekend is Solomon Shields, who has suffered a knock to his ankle.

There are still, however doubts over the fitness of midfielder Adam Chambers (back) and Alton Thelwell (knee).

“Both missed training today (Thursday), although they should both be OK to be involved tomorrow so we will see where it goes from there,” added Ling.