The Guardian Series understands Kevin Nolan will be named Leyton Orient's player-manager tomorrow. 

It was initially thought O's owner Francesco Becchetti preferred to bring in an Italian replacement for Ian Hendon.

But former West Ham United midfielder Nolan has now been chosen to take charge of the club. It is believed former Hammers first-team coach Wally Downes will be part of the management set-up. 

Nolan spent three months training with the club earlier this season but could not agree a deal after the League Two club offered him a player contract. 

The 33-year-old met Becchetti last year and the Orient owner has decided to take a gamble on Nolan.

Regardless of his lack of managerial experience, it would be a major coup to secure him on the pitch as a player that has spent most of his career in the top flight.

The club had also been linked with Italian coach Franco Colomba but Nolan is currently 1/20 favourite for the position with Sky Bet.