Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens launched a scathing attack on his underperforming squad after the club narrowly avoided relegation from League One on the final day of the season. The O's needed a victory over Burton Albion to guarantee safety but could only manage a 2-2 draw, relying on Bradford City's win over Exeter City to stay up.
Wellens' Brutal Honesty
In a post-match interview that pulled no punches, Wellens described his team as 'really weak' and accused them of wasting a year of his managerial career and their own playing careers. 'We had relegation written all over us,' he said. 'We've had to wait for somebody else to get a result for us. We concede from another set play because we lack leadership.'
The 46-year-old highlighted a recurring problem: conceding goals just before half-time and after the 85th minute. 'We've probably lost 20 points after 85 minutes and then conceding goals at half-time,' he added.
Celebration Ban
Wellens ordered his players to clap the fans but not to celebrate with their families. 'Get off the pitch,' he commanded. 'It's been an embarrassing season. Too many players that have wasted 10 months of their career. I've had one year of my managerial career that I've wasted. Then they've wasted the supporters' time. We've not given them enough days to turn up to. Not enough good days.'
Summer Overhaul Expected
Wellens indicated a major squad overhaul this summer, with a new focus on data-driven recruitment. 'We're going to be run more off data, and that data doesn't stack up with the way that we want to play,' he explained. 'We need the personnel now that can carry it out. The ones that have got contracts are going to be struggling to get a new contract. Then there will be players with contracts that we want to move on.'
He also questioned the players' commitment off the pitch, revealing that only half of them watch analytical videos provided to the squad. 'How do you get that?' he asked.
Leyton Orient exceeded expectations last season by reaching the play-off final but endured a chastening campaign this term, despite hopes of a top-six finish.
