Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens believes former Linfield forward Paul Smyth has the ability to be the best player in SkyBet League Two.
Wellens made his bold prediction after witnessing Smyth score a second ‘worldie’ in a week in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Barrow at Brisbane Road.
Seven days after rifling in a stunning long distance effort in a 3-1 win over Rochdale, the 24-year-old was at it again at the weekend.
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There looked to be little danger when Smyth, who joined Orient from QPR last summer, found himself tight by the goal line after rounding Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman.
But from a couple of yards outside the penalty area, the three-times capped Northern Ireland winger lofted a superb shot over the stranded keeper’s head.
As the ball soared into the net from the tightest of angles, the in-house commentator screamed: “Ooohhhhh, that’s a spectacular goal from Paul Smyth!
“It didn’t seem possible, but it’s another amazing goal from Paul Smyth. That was special!”
It was another sensational strike for Smyth whose debut season at Orient has been disrupted by a lack of regular game time due to niggly injuries.
Asked about Smyth's goal afterwards, boss Wellens said: “He meant that. He obviously meant that one last week… but from the angle, he’s obviously put the bend on it.
“Listen, he has the potential to be the best player in the league.
“His injuries have obviously frustrated him this season, but let’s finish the season strongly with him and manage his minutes so we don’t have anything recurring.
“Let’s bring him back next season, firing because like I say he has the potential to be the best in the league.”
Orient, who travel to Oldham tomorrow night, lie 17th in the League Two table.
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