Butcher ready to step in again as Jones is a doubt
Orient keeper Jamie Jones looks set to miss Saturday’s vital clash against Tranmere Rovers because of a shoulder injury.
It’s a must-win match for the O’s as they look to keep their play-off dream alive and Lee Butcher, who came in for Jones at Carlisle on Monday, looks set to keep his place
The O’s number one is still troubled by injury and Orient boss Russell Slade admitted: “Jamie has had a scan on his shoulder and I think he will miss the game.
“But thereafter he should be okay. He has had an injection, but it will take a little time to settle down.”
Orient will also be without Jimmy Smith and Alex Revell, although the latter is making good progress and could be available if Slade’s side make the play-offs.
Striker Scott McGleish, who could only manage 20 minutes at Carlisle on Monday, should be fit and Slade is hoping that Paul-Jose M’Poku will also be available.
“Ben Chorley is also making good progress and has an outside chance of making Saturday,” confirmed the Orient boss.
While defender Andrew Whing will also be available. “He missed the Carlisle game to be at the birth of his baby girl,” said Slade.
Tranmere ensured their League One status with a 4-0 romp against Exeter on Monday, and with Rochdale also losing at Charlton, it ruled both the Grecians and Dale out of the promotion chase, as they can match Bournemouth’s points tally, but have a vastly inferior goal difference.
But although Rovers have little to play for, Slade will be warning his side against complacency.
“I know their manager Les Parry well and he will want to finish as high as he can,” said Slade.
“They are coming here off the back of a 4-0 win and they won’t make it easy for us.”
If Orient lose on Saturday or Bournemouth and MK Dons both win, then O’s dream will be over, but Slade remains optimistic and said: “I’m sure there will be a few more twists and turns during the final couple of games.”
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