With the correct acquisitions, Leyton Orient could very well be in the running for the playoffs the next year as they prepare for the summer transfer window.
After making a strong comeback to League One football, Richie Wellens will be hopeful that Leyton Orient can make even more progress in the 2024–2025 season.
In League One, the O’s ended comfortably in midtable, ranked eleventh. They had a brief period of excellent form during which they appeared to be outside of play-off contention, but that run of play eventually came to an end.
However, it was just revealed by the retained list statement that some players will be leaving this summer, making room at Brisbane Road for new recruits.
With Rob Hunt’s versatility and Ethan Light’s departure, the defensive ranks will be reconfigured. There is still chatter about Jack Simpson and Dan Happe signing new contracts, but it’s possible that their current agreements will expire.
In any case, it appears that a spot has opened up for another centre back to be signed, and Marvin Ekpiteta, a former star for Leyton Orient, will be unrestricted.
Blackpool announced on Tuesday morning that center-back Ekpiteta would be leaving at the conclusion of his contract.
His strong defensive displays and leadership qualities made him a valued member of the Bloomfield Road team both on and off the pitch. In what will likely be his final season with the Tangerines, the 28-year-old played 40 games.
Ekpiteta’s choices will become clearer with time, but his release should interest his old team.
When the O’s signed him from East Thurrock in January 2018, they gave him a significant step up the ladder, and he would be crucial to their return to the EFL. It was a well-earned move for Ekpiteta to transfer to Blackpool, where he could test himself in the Championship and third division.
A reunion move for Ekpiteta might fix a vacuum in the Leyton Orient defence, since he has been a fantastic player at this level in recent seasons. The defender, who was born in London, might be persuaded to join a team nearer to his heart by doing so. He might emerge as a major contributor and leader at Brisbane once more, but with higher goals this time.
