DARLINGTON skipper Matt Clarke believes Joey Hutchinson is showing every sign of returning to his irrepressible best and putting last season's injury nightmare behind him.

In two games this season, Clarke has already seen enough of his defensive partner to suggest Hutchinson can come back the player he was before a cruciate knee ligament injury ended his season in September last year.

Hutchinson resumed training in July after a gruelling 10-month rehabilitation programme.

The 23-year-old made his long-awaited league return against Rushden and Diamonds last Saturday, before Clarke and Hutchinson helped keep a clean sheet in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Stockport County.

"It's great to see Joey back after everything he has been through," said Clarke. "Some players aren't quite the same when they've had serious injuries, but Joey looks as if he's never been away.

"I think it takes a lot of strength and character to deal with what Joey has had to go through, but he's came through and I'm delighted for him."

Clarke will lead his side out in an early season top-of-the-table clash tomorrow as second-placed Quakers entertain Leyton Orient.

Orient have won their opening games, beating Macclesfield and Bury, but Hodgson remains confident.

"Orient will be pleased with the start they've made, but I know this is a game we will win if we believe in ourselves," said Hodgson.

"We showed that belief in the first half against Stockport, although I was disappointed with our response in the second half.

"There is still plenty to build on and we will go into the Orient game with the confidence that we will win the game."

Read more about the Quakers here.