Opinion: Leyton Orient would be wise to eye Sheffield Wednesday outcast this summer
03/05/2024 15:30
Leyton Orient will turn their attentions to finding some new signings after the conclusion of the season, and attacking additions will be on their radar.
Leyton Orient were somewhat of a surprise package under Richie Wellens’ leadership in League One this season. They finished 11th in the League One table following their promotion from League Two and were briefly in the conversation for a play-off spot.
Wellens signed a new three-year deal to remain at the helm following the conclusion of the campaign, and the O’s now have a solid foundation to build on ahead next season.
Orient released their retained list three days ago, and with that came the news of the departing loanees. Shaq Forde, Dan Adu-Adjei and Khayon Edwards were amongst those whose will be returning to their parents clubs, all three of which will leave a gap in the attacking department.
Joe Pigott and Dan Agyei are still at the O’s disposal, with talks ongoing over a new deal for Ruel Sotiriou.
But, bringing in an experienced head such as Gregory who has a great track record in the third tier would surely be a smart piece of business.
A great option for Orient
The Sheffield Wednesday man was integral in the Owls’ promotion to the Championship last season, though was not included in their squad list for the second half of the season having harshly been deemed surplus to requirements.
There was League One interest in the 35-year-old during January, including from promotion winners Derby County, so it is clear that the veteran is still seen as a capable striker at third tier level.
Over the course of the 2021/22 and 2022/23 campaigns, Gregory scored 28 goals and registered 11 assists for Wednesday. His career total tallies at 147 goals and 50 assists, so it is safe to say he knows where the back of the net is.
He has twice won promotion from League One, experience that could prove extremely handy for Wellens’ men should their ambitions lie higher than their mid-table finish last term. Most importantly he could have a positive impact on the pitch with no intentions shown to hang up his boots just yet.
It may not appear the flashiest deal, but Gregory could prove to be a really handy addition to a host of teams in the third tier next season. Affordable and with a knack for goals, Orient should certainly throw their name into the mix.
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