PADRAIG Amond is set to give Newport County a boost today by returning to the ranks at Leyton Orient after sustaining an injury manager Michael Flynn described as “bizarre”.

The Irish striker missed last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat of League Two leaders Swindon Town and was not in the squad for Tuesday’s postponed Leasing.com Trophy tie against Leicester City U21s.

Speaking after the win over the Robins, Flynn explained how Amond had felt some discomfort in his hip when “taking off his boot” in training the day before.

Flynn today confirmed the top scorer had been back in training and was “in the mix” for this afternoon’s game in London.

“He’s done my head in,” joked Flynn. “He’s a pain in the backside – he’s non-stop. He’s just keen to play.

“He’s a fantastic lad, a great professional, but I’m not going to risk him for the sake of it.

"He’s back in the mix and we’ll go from there.”

Flynn almost has a fully fit squad to choose from, and defender Dan Leadbitter (knee) and striker Ade Azeez (Achilles) are making strides in their comebacks.

Leadbitter, who underwent ankle surgery after just three appearances following his move to south Wales last summer, is back in training.

On-loan midfielder Dale Gorman isn’t available for selection today as the Exiles take on his parent club.

“They’ve all come with the right mentality,” said Flynn about his four January acquisitions to date.

“Ash Baker is quite local, played a few times in the Championship last season, and a very good prospect going forward in terms of his age, application, and desire to keep improving.

“Billy (Waters) wanted to come and be part of what we’re doing and play games.

“It’s encouraging that these players want to come, be part of something and want to work hard to get into this team.

“You’ve almost got a fully fit and hungry squad, and when that happens, we’re a tough nut to crack.”

James Dayton is suspended for Orient after his red card against Northampton Town on Tuesday, and Jamie Turley, who got County's winner at Orient in August 2016, Jobi McAnuff and Dean Brill are all unavailable.