Oldham Athletic boss Micky Mellon has confirmed James Norwood is facing a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Latics' top scorer limped out of the goalless draw at Ebbsfleet 10 days ago and will miss tonight's home game with Boreham Wood, among others.

There was no timeframe put on an anticipated return for the 17-goal striker, but Mellon said: “James has a hamstring injury and is going to be out for the next few games."

The Latics boss may also be forced into other changes from their last league game when they return to action at Boundary Park tonight for this twice re-arranged fixture (kick-off 7.45pm).

“We have one or two other niggles which might leave people unavailable for tonight, but nothing that I believe will get in the way of the team getting a positive result," said the Scot.

Oldham had an enforced break at the weekend, with opponents Bromley in FA Trophy action.

But Mellon made use of the time to run the rule over his squad with a behind closed doors game against Manchester United Under 21s at Carrington, which they won 3-1.

“We got a lot out of that game because we were able to try some different things," the Latics boss explained.

“I’ve looked to use the break as productively as possible, trying to use the time right to get the lads recharged, but also keep working on things we want to work on.

“We’ve been looking at keeping the team moving forward, building relationships between players, because a few new lads have come in.

“They want to get to know each other that bit better, and are getting a feel for the environment.

“Playing people in different positions, and things like that, it was really good for us to learn about the team.

“The players got a 45-minute test each, which was good for them. It was important for all 22 lads to get some time under their belts."

There was an opportunity, also, for youth team players Alfie Atherton and Mo Doro to make an impression after some eye-catching performances for the Under 18s in recent weeks.

“Both Alfie and Mo gave really good accounts of themselves, they’re both young lads but did really well," said Mellon in an interview with the club.

“It was a tough game for them to play in, and they both showed great qualities which is fantastic from youth players.

“I’m still learning a lot about the football club and I’ve learned that we’ve got two really good young players there. That’s promising for the future."