O’s boss Wellens sees Gronkjaer traits
LEYTON Orient boss Richie Wellens has likened new boy Ollie O’Neill to former Chelsea star Jesper Gronkjaer – and believes he can help the O’s wing their way into playoff contention.
The talented 21-year-old January signing from Fulham hit his third goal in four games to edge Orient past fellow promotion hopefuls Blackpool on Tuesday night, putting them just five points off the play-off places going into the weekend.
As the O’s make a late charge, O’Neill could have a crucial role to play - and Wellens won’t be complaining if he performs like speedy Danish inter national Gronkjaer did for Chelsea and Bir mingham in the early 2000s.
“The young fans probably won’t have a clue who I’m talking about here, but Ollie reminds me of Jesper Gronkjaer,” said the former Swindon boss.
“When we were scouting him, the very first thing I noticed was just how strong he is, that is such a vital characteristic to have at this level.
“He’s so strong and upright on the ball.
“He often doesn’t look like he’s running quickly but then you look at the others chasing him - and they seem to be miles away!
“He can score with both feet, left foot last week at Oxford (a 2-1 win) and right foot this week. We’ve been delighted with Ollie so far.”
Faced with a resilient Blackpool side on a cold midweek night in east London, Orient had to switch to a more direct style of play to eventually break down their rugged Lancashire opponents.
It’s something which may irk the game’s purists, but Wellens believes being able to radically switch styles at short notice is crucial for any side to progress in the blood and thunder of the third tier.
“The match against Blackpool was all about getting it up to the front players and winning that second ball,” he explained.
“It wasn’t pretty but it’s what you need to do sometimes.
“The previous week against Oxford we set up completely differently and played some brilliant football.
“It’s about being equipped to be able to utilise different methods and o
