Leyton Orient face a difficult League One challenge this Saturday when they travel to face second-placed Bradford City at Valley Parade. The O's, currently 11th in the standings with 10 points from eight matches, are looking to bounce back from a 2-0 home defeat to Plymouth Argyle last weekend.
Bradford, managed by Michael Duff, are level on points with leaders Plymouth and have won three of their last four league games. Their strong start under Duff, who was appointed after Graham Alexander's departure, presents a stern test. The hosts have kept three clean sheets in their last five matches, a key factor in their lofty position.
Orient's recent form shows just one win in their last five outings across all competitions, a 1-0 victory over Stevenage. The two sides met recently in the League Cup, with Bradford winning 3-1 at Brisbane Road on September 8. For Orient, tightening a defence that has conceded 11 goals in eight games will be key, especially after keeping two clean sheets last month. Top scorer Jaze Kabia, with four league goals this season, is expected to lead the attack again and will be a player to watch in the stats.
Manager Richie Wellens has a near-full squad to choose from. Jon McCracken and Ibou Touray are back from international duty with Scotland and Gambia respectively, while captain Isaac Hayden could return to the side. The only confirmed absentees are Oliver Dovin and Demetri Mitchell, who remain on the injuries list.
The fixture, part of a busy upcoming fixtures schedule, is a chance for Orient to climb into the top six, as they hold a game in hand on some teams above them. Bradford are considered clear favourites for the match at their home ground.
