Take it out on Orient, urges Johnson

Lee Johnson: pour frustration into beating Saturday’s opponents

ATHLETIC boss Lee Johnson has urged his players to take out their frustrations from the Colchester defeat on struggling Leyton Orient this weekend.

Though they remain sixth in the table, Johnson’s men were under par on Saturday against Orient’s fellow relegation candidates.

Johnson appears to be mulling over potential changes for the trip to the Matchroom Stadium: “It’s a case of having to use your frustration as a player to show energy in that game on Saturday.

“A couple of players have lost their places, if I am honest, through not-great displays. Another couple will come in and it gives them a chance to have a go.”

Losing to Colchester on a miserable Valentine’s Day highlighted how difficult League One can be: “This division is tough, let’s make no bones about it,” said Johnson. “Every team can beat each other and there are very fine margins. You have to be consistent in your mindset and up for every game.”



MIDFIELDER Carl Winchester has picked up both the club’s player and goal of the month awards for January after a string of impressive displays. Winchester’s performances earned him plaudits from fans and media alike as he notched one goal in his four games of the month.

The 21 year old scooped the player award with 62 per cent of the vote, beating captain Liam Kelly and full-back Connor Brown.