TOWN expect skipper Jon Worthington to be fit for Saturday's visit of Northampton.

The 23-year-old, who was suffering a groin niggle in the build-up to Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Leyton Orient, was forced off at half time at Brisbane Road.

"He had the problem during the week but he was okay for the game," explained manager Peter Jackson.

"Towards the end of the first half, though, Worthy started to feel it again, so it was best for him to come off.

"He'll have treatment from (physio) Lee Martin but we would expect the injury to settle down in time for Saturday."

Luke Beckett went on for Worthington in a switch of formation from 4-1-4-1 to 4-4-2, but Jackson had to switch again, sending on defender John McCombe for winger Chris Brandon, following the dismissal of Martin McIntosh.

"I expected us to win the game but we've come away with nothing and that's a big disappointment," said a deflated Jackson.

"Orient were the better side in the first half and we were better in the second, even though the sending-off made it hard.

"I still feel we had the better chances with Mark Hudson's miss and Andy Booth's header cleared off the line."

Jackson added: "The longer our run without a win goes on, obviously, the more confidence will be hit, so Northampton at this stage is a must-win game for us in terms of restoring the confidence among players and supporters as well.

"It's not pleasant to get beaten by the bottom of the League side, so it's now vital we perform well and win in front of our own fans."