Inspirational midfielder has a chance of winning his fitness battle

Orient manager Russell Slade hopes that skipper Stephen Dawson will be back for Saturday’s match against Tranmere Rovers.

Dawson missed the first two matches of the season after suffering an ankle injury during the club’s pre-season friendly with Tottenham.

The midfielder was back in light training on Thursday and Slade said: “I think he has a chance.”

David Mooney (hamstring) and Marc Laird (thigh) were also expected on the training ground and Slade added: “They are getting a little bit closer and are possibilities for the weekend. We have given them every opportunity and we need them back,” said the O’s boss.

However, Orient will be without striker Jonathan Tehoue, who will start a three-game ban for violent conduct following his dismissal at Southend in a Carling Cup clash on Tuesday night and Slade will be keeping his fingers crossed that Dean Cox recovers from a ankle injury.

“He came off as a precaution, as he seemed to jar his ankle in a tackle and he could be a doubt,” explained the Orient chief.