Orient boss full of praise for Jobi McAnuff as well as Charlie Grainger and other youngsters who featured against Scunthorpe
Leyton Orient head coach Ian Hendon admitted Jobi McAnuff’s first start under him was long overdue, but he was delighted with the performance of the Jamaican international.
The 34-year-old started for the first time this season after making his comeback during the 3-2 win against York City last month.
He was unable to inspire the O’s into the next round of the FA Cup as they were held to a goalless draw by Scunthorpe United.
McAnuff impressed against the League One team, though, and Hendon appears delighted to be able to pick the former Reading man now.
He said: “It was a long overdue first start for Jobi and I thought he was fantastic in there.
“We played him in the hole during the first half and then late on second half he came out on the left.
“Jobi does what he does and I thought his commitment was there for everybody to see and I am looking forward to him playing a big part here for the rest of the season.”
Orient also kept their first clean sheet since the 1-0 win at Morecambe back on October 24 against the Iron.
It was the first time Charlie Grainger had not conceded a goal since making his full debut for the O’s at Luton Town in September.
He shipped two at the Hatters before conceding four at Exeter City and three at Hartlepool United last month.
But Hendon praised the 19-year-old for being alert throughout the second round tie as he made two good saves from Scunthorpe’s Hakeeb Adelakun in either half.
“Defensively we were very good, Charlie has had one or two saves to make,” added the Orient head coach.
“One in the first half with his legs and in the second period from Scunthorpe’s wide player. He got a shot off and Charlie tipped it over the bar.
“He was alert to that and got a clean sheet so I am really pleased for Charlie.”
Scott Kashket was introduced in the 61st minute and caught the eye again, causing plenty of problems for the visitors defence.
Although Victor Adeboyejo didn’t get as long on the pitch, he also impressed in his cameo after replacing Ollie Palmer in the 86th minute.
His speed and presence unsettled the Iron back four and the 17-year-old looks to have a huge amount of talent.
“The youngsters do look hungry and that is what we want from them. Andy Edwards is doing a fantastic job with those young players here,” said Hendon.
“There are a few in our minds to push on. Victor against Scunthorpe was one and Scotty everybody knows.
“We are in good shape at that level. It is just trying to get those lads to push through and get in the first team.”
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