Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens has confirmed plans to send young goalkeeper Noah Phillips out on loan. The 21-year-old, who started the season in goal, will be made available for a temporary move to continue his development.
Wellens made the announcement this week, as reported by the BBC. The decision follows Nathan Baxter's return to fitness and the arrival of deadline-day loan signing Oliver Dovin from Coventry. Phillips was left out of the matchday squad for Saturday's 1-1 draw at Luton Town, with Baxter reinstated and Dovin on the bench. The O's currently sit 9th in the League One standings, with seven points from their opening five matches.
Why is Noah Phillips being loaned out?
Richie Wellens described the choice to omit Phillips as a difficult one. "It was a tough decision for me," the manager said. Phillips played in five of Leyton Orient's first eight games in all competitions this season. He stepped in for the injured Nathan Baxter for three League One fixtures, keeping two clean sheets. His performances also helped the club win two penalty shoot-outs in the EFL Trophy against AFC Wimbledon and the EFL Cup against Walsall.
Despite this contribution, Wellens views Phillips' development stage differently to his senior colleagues. "I see Noah at this moment as a young goalkeeper, making his way in the game, and I see Oliver and Nathan as the finished article at this level, so it would be stupid of me to not put them in," Wellens explained. The plan is for Phillips to play regular first-team football elsewhere, with the expectation he will return ready to compete for the number one spot at Brisbane Road in the future.
What experience does Phillips have?
The upcoming loan will not be Noah Phillips' first experience of senior football away from Leyton Orient. The goalkeeper has previously had spells with non-league sides Hornchurch, Bishop's Stortford and Dorking Wanderers. These stints were designed to build his match sharpness and confidence. The proposed move this season is a continuation of that pathway, aiming to provide him with consistent minutes at a competitive level.
Wellens believes this is the logical next step. He stated that in six months, a year, or 18 months, Phillips should be ready to be the club's first-team goalkeeper. This patient approach shows the club's long-term view of his potential. Fans can track the progress of all Leyton Orient players, including those out on loan, via the official squad page.
How does this affect Leyton Orient's season?
The goalkeeping situation now appears settled, with Nathan Baxter firmly established as first choice and Oliver Dovin providing cover. This clarity comes as Leyton Orient prepare for their next League One fixture at home to Wycombe Wanderers on September 12th. Wycombe currently sit 23rd in the table, presenting an opportunity for the O's to build on their solid start.
Richie Wellens' side have scored 10 goals and conceded just six in the league so far, giving them a healthy +4 goal difference. They remain five points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday. The decision regarding Phillips is part of managing a squad that must balance immediate results with future planning. The club's upcoming fixtures include a busy period where squad depth will be tested. Leyton Orient host Wycombe Wanderers at Brisbane Road this Saturday.
