Former Swindon Town defender reflects on his mindset for every day and the positive impact of the Brisbane Road supporters

Callum Kennedy fully understands the frustration of the Leyton Orient supporters, but wants them to know the players are hurting about the current run of form.

The O’s were beaten 1-0 by Portsmouth on Saturday at Brisbane Road to drop to 20th in the League Two table.

It was the east Londoners fifth defeat from their last six matches in all competitions, but a large number of supporters applauded the efforts of the team after the encounter.

“I know the club last season started like a house on fire and for whatever reason it tailed off and the fans were getting frustrated. You can sense an air of frustration,” said Kennedy.

“But when we went down to nine men against Plymouth Argyle I don’t think the fans realise how good they actually were for us that night. I genuinely felt like they gave me an extra 10 to 15 per cent.

“I can understand that sitting there when you are paying money every week and your team isn’t winning it can be more frustrating than it is for probably us at times.

“But I want them to know we are not in the changing room after the match not worrying about anything – we do care. I care and all the lads care.

“It is much appreciated when they are still on our side and it is something we have all got to come together and keep working because ultimately we want to give the fans what they want.”

The way the fans were towards the Orient players during the defeat to Plymouth was extraordinary and it seemed a crucial moment.

A bond appeared to be struck between the squad and the supporters and it continued at Barnet where once again the supporters stuck with the team.

Even during the defeat to Portsmouth the O’s fans didn’t appear to turn on the players, but the atmosphere was subdued.

With the visitors dominating it is easy to understand why, but there is no doubt the way the supporters backed the team against Plymouth has resonated with the squad.

Kennedy played the whole 90 minutes against the Pilgrims, although didn’t have the easiest of starts to the season after Sandro Semedo was initially first choice left-back.

The ex-AFC Wimbledon defender was patient and when he got his opportunity at the end of August he grasped it with both hands.

And since coming into the Orient team he has been one of their most consistent performers.

“The mentality I have is every morning I wake up if I can get a little bit better then throughout my career I’m only going to improve,” said Kennedy.

“That is my mindset and if I ever find myself not in the team nothing changes obviously I’m very disappointed not to be playing, but at the same time my work levels stay as they are.

“I keep practising and working hard to make sure when I do get my chance I can hold onto my place and stay in the team.”