League Two club release statement confirming former players has departed

Lee Harrison’s contract as goalkeeper coach at Leyton Orient has been terminated with immediate effect.

The Brisbane Road outfit confirmed the disappointing news with a short statement this afternoon. Rob Gagliardi, who was goalkeeper coach under Fabio Liverani last season, will be taking over.

The Italian, who has worked with National League side Welling United in the past, will combine that role alongside his head of recruitment duties.

A statement on the official website read: “Leyton Orient can confirm that goalkeeper coach Lee Harrison has had his contract terminated with immediate effect.

“We would like to thank Lee for his efforts since joining the club in the summer, and wish him all the best for the future.

“Rob Gagliardi will fill the role left by Harrison until the end of the season while also remaining as head of recruitment.”

It is decision that is incredibly disappointing considering Harrison has represented Orient with class and dignity in each of his spells at Brisbane Road.

The 44-year-old was initially with the O’s as a schoolboy before moving to Charlton Athletic and progressing through their academy.

But he did finally return to east London in 2003 and spent two seasons as first choice goalkeeper at the club before departing to join Peterborough United.

When Ian Hendon was appointed as O’s head coach last summer, he brought Harrison back as goalkeeper coach.

And the former Wycombe Wanderers man had been enjoying his return to Brisbane Road and played a major part in Charlie Grainger and Sam Sargeant’s development this year.

Unfortunately he has now left Orient and the club has lost a man highly respected in the game and by most at the club.