Leyton Orient boss Andy Hessenthaler was relieved a sickness bug in his squad occurred this week instead of next ahead of the opening game of the 2016/17 season.

Key members of the team such as captain Robbie Weir, Liam Kelly, Callum Kennedy and Sean Clohessy all missed out on the O’s final pre-season home game at Brisbane Road against Gillingham.

The O’s were up 2-0 with goals from Jordan Bowery and Jay Simpson before the match was abandoned in the 76th minute due to Lee Martin suffering a serious injury.

“A sickness bug could happen this season couldn’t it so we’ve had a tough week ourselves in terms of players,” the 50-year-old added.

“Robbie picked up a bit of a knee problem in the Dagenham game when he come on and also got the bug along with Callum, Sean and Liam.

“I’m glad it has happened this week and certainly not next week, but they’ve got it and let’s hope nobody else picks it up over the next few days.

“We need a good week of work leading up to the Cheltenham game starting from Monday so I need everybody fit and available for team selection on Saturday.”

The former Gills boss also wished Martin a quick recovery after what could be a suspected dislocated and broken ankle after trying a shot in the second half.

Hessenthaler said: “I spoke to Justin, the Gillingham manager, and it sounds like he has a broken and dislocated his ankle, but not 100 per cent sure.

“It was a sad way to finish the game because it was a good exercise for both teams and to finish on that note is very sad and I wish the lad all the best and a speedy recovery.

“It’s been a tough pre-season for Gillingham as well obviously I speak to Justin quite a lot and I think they’ve had quite a few injuries.

“Aaron Morris had a cruciate and another lad done his Achilles so they’ve had a few problems and sometimes you think I wish we didn’t play these games.

“It is just bad luck, these things happen and it was just an accident with Lee so I wish him and Gillingham well.”

Orient are set to travel away to Cheltenham on Saturday, August 6 in the opening game of League Two.