AFTER coming off early in Saturday's draw with Reading at Vicarage Road, goalkeeper Mart Poom now faces an extended period on the sidelines.

Boss Aidy Boothroyd this morning (Thursday) confirmed that the ex-Arsenal stopper will be out of action for up to six months.

The Estonian has dislocated his shoulder and the news will come as a huge blow to the 'keeper after a promising start to the league campaign.

Boothroyd added: "Mart's injury is serious unfortunately, it's a six month job I think.

"He's had to have his shoulder pinned and obviously for a goalkeeper, and a 36-year-old at that, it's not good at all.

"He's fought back before from injury, and it's very, very disappointing because he's come into the team and done very well for us. But we wish him well and we'll be working hard to get him back somewhere near where he was."

Despite the setback, the goalkeeper department is still a relatively strong one for the 'Orns, at a time when the Golden Boys have been hit hard by injuries.

The manager can call upon both Scott Loach and the fit-again Richard Lee.

Loach currently claims the number one jersey after entering the fray against the Royals and Boothroyd has been pleased with his progress.

Boothroyd commented: "I think Scott has been fantastic in all of the games he's played in the Carling Cup - and when he came on against Reading, apart from one dodgy kick at the beginning, I thought he was outstanding.

"He has a huge presence, he fills the goal, he's not afraid to say what he thinks and he's got excellent distribution skills. The shirt is there for him and he's got to make it his own now."

In other injury news, the situation regarding Jay DeMerit, is slightly more positive.

The American centre half, who hobbled from the field on Tuesday night against the Hammers, isn't as bad as the Hornets first thought. His situation will be further assessed today and will be reviewed before Saturday's match.
 

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