Slade’s men prepared for JPT action

Leyton Orient prepare for a third consecutive away trip tonight as they face Peterborough in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy at London Road and manager Russell Slade is ready for another tough match.

After defeating Aston Villa last Wednesday in the Capital One Cup and holding Fleetwood to a draw in League One, the O’s have another stern test this evening.

Posh have started the season excellently and sit top of the League One table with four wins from five games.

Darren Ferguson’s team are also holders of the competition after beating Chesterfield in the final at Wembley last March and with the match live on Sky Sports 1, the O’s boss is expecting an entertaining game.

“We know it will be a tough game, they are a very good side,” said Slade.

“To play them so early on in the season, again in the cup competition, I am sure it will be entertaining.

“It is the third one on the bounce away from home so we look forward to that.”

The Orient chief may be forced to make changes to his starting XI, with Elliot Omozusi and Jobi McAnuff set to be assessed after the pair picked up knocks during the 1-1 with Fleetwood.

Forward Kevin Lisbie remains sidelined with an ongoing shoulder problem, but goalkeeper Gary Woods may get another opportunity after featuring in the 1-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Slade is pleased to have such a large squad to pick from, but admits his resources are being tested.

“We will probably have to make a few more changes,” the O’s boss admitted.

“We might be forced to make a few more changes because despite having a stronger squad than last year, it is being tested to the limit right now.

“It helps (having a big squad) because we can make one or two changes, but at the minute we are being stretched.”

Romain Vincelot, the hero from last week’s shock win at Villa Park, should feature again and is looking forward to going back to London Road.

Orient played at Peterborough twice last season, defeating them 3-1 in the league campaign before earning a 1-1 draw in the play-off semi-final first leg.

The O’s went on to qualify for the play-off final at Wembley following an excellent 2-1 success at Brisbane Road and Vincelot specifically remembers the atmosphere during the first leg at London Road.

The Frenchmen hopes the crowd are in similar spirits this evening, adding: “Yes we have been there a few times last year.

“The last one was for the semi-final, it will be good to get back there and for the cup again so hopefully it will be a good atmosphere.”