The centre-back hasn’t featured in the league since October, first due to concussion protocol but now due to a shoulder problem picked up in training.

That saw him miss the Reds’ FA Cup match against Aldershot Town and their EFL Trophy game against Oldham Athletic.

Providing an update after the 5-2 win, boss Daniel Stendel says O’Riordan will miss their next two fixtures as a minimum. Shoulder surgery may be necessary but they will try to avoid it.

“He will try to do it without surgery but he still needs time," Stendel explained.

"He might be back earlier but the last decision has not been made. He will miss the next two games, where he isn't ready to play.

"It is better than what we thought. Whether he has surgery or not, he needs time and in our situation with suspensions, you can see how many players we have for this position."