Wellens blames weak Leyton Orient squad for wasted season despite survival

Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens criticized his players for wasting a year of his career despite avoiding relegation.

Manager's fiery assessment Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens delivered a harsh assessment of his team after securing a 2-2 draw against Burton Albion on the final day of the season, which kept the club in League One. He described his players as 'really, really weak' and accused them of serving up poor performances week after week. Wellens also expressed regret for publicly defending the team in the past, stating that he no longer feels the effort to protect them is justified. He emphasized that many players have wasted both their own careers and his time over the past ten months. ## Supporters bear the brunt Wellens acknowledged that he has previously taken criticism from supporters on behalf of the players but now feels it is no longer worthwhile. He explained that he intervened to shield the team from fan backlash in the past, but the constant underperformance has made that approach unsustainable. Wellens argued that the players have not only wasted their own opportunities but also the supporters' time and patience throughout the season. He stressed that the club lacks enough individuals with a winning mentality to turn things around. ## Reaction to final match drama The Leyton Orient boss criticized his players for playing for a draw against Burton Albion in the closing stages, fully aware that relegation rivals Exeter were losing to Bradford. He highlighted the contrast between the players celebrating on the pitch after securing survival and the reality of an embarrassing season. Wellens insisted that supporters deserve to be recognized for their loyalty but urged the team to avoid such celebrations. He called the season overall a disappointment and questioned the players' professionalism in such moments. ## Promises of major changes Wellens, who led the club to promotion in the 2022-23 season and reached the play-off final last year, warned of significant changes at the club during the summer transfer window. He revealed that players with existing contracts may struggle to secure new ones, while those out of contract will likely be moved on. The manager emphasized the need for more athleticism and character within the squad, admitting that the club's recruitment process has consistently fallen short. He cited a pre-season trip to Spain, where he took eight youth players and three trialists, as an example of the team's developmental shortcomings. ## Star player's future uncertain Despite his criticism of the squad, Wellens made it clear that leading scorer and League One Player of the Year Dom Ballard is not included in his concerns. He expressed a desire to keep Ballard but left the door open for a potential transfer. Wellens stated that if a suitable offer arrives and is accepted by the club's leadership, including majority shareholder David Gandler and chairman Nigel Travis, Ballard could leave. Wellens affirmed that the club would consider keeping Ballard if no acceptable bid is received.