French midfielder moves on and ex-O’s boss Ian Hendon becomes Director of Football at Billericay Town

Nigel Atangana is the latest Leyton Orient player to agree a move to a new club ahead of the 2017/18 season.

The 27-year-old will link up with Cheltenham Town on July 1 after signing a two-year contract with the League Two club.

Atangana spent 18 months at O’s and despite a bright start, struggled for most of the previous campaign, which ended in relegation.

The French midfielder made 32 appearances for Orient last season, but missed the last six weeks through injury.

He now joins Liam Kelly, Jordan Bowery and Paul McCallum in agreeing a switch away from Brisbane Road over the past week.

At least 15 players are expected to leave O’s before the start of pre-season including the aforementioned four.

Cheltenham boss Gary Johnson expressed his delight at signing the ex-Portsmouth midfielder, he said: “He’s a player we identified a little while ago.

“We like his energy, power and pace. We think he’s a bit like Paul Pogba, but he thinks he’s like Patrick Viera. Either one of those will do!”

The former Havant & Waterlooville midfielder made 48 appearances overall during his time at O’s, but failed to score.

Atangana said: “It has been a pleasure to play for Leyton Orient. The fans were amazing during my time there. I cannot ask more from you all.

“I hope the club can go back to the Football League next season and shine again. I wish you all the best next season.”

Elsewhere, ex-Orient boss Ian Hendon has agreed a deal to become Billericay Town’s Director of Football.

Hendon, a former manager and captain at Brisbane Road, has been out of work since leaving O’s on January 18.

The 45-year-old has been linked with jobs at Gillingham and Barnet this year, but has joined the ambitious Ryman Premier club.