Hanson Leaves O’s

Former Middlesbrough defender Christian Hanson has left Orient having joined on non-contract terms in October. Despite scoring on his debut in the 2-0 win over Yeovil in the LDV first round, Hanson only made one more full appearance for the O’s at Oxford in the 2nd round of the same competition. Hanson appeared twice as a substitute in the league and played six games in the reserves.

However, with the emergence of Brian Saah, Hanson has found his opportunities somewhat limited of late, and it was considered best by both parties that Hanson should seek pastures new. There is a good chance that Hanson will join Grays Athletic who are currently chasing promotion to League Two in the Conference.

With Ling already looking to bring in some more quality in the central defensive area, Hanson’s departure does not come as too much of a shock. Taking time out to comment on Hanson, Ling stated that Hanson’s ‘attitude has been spot on from day one with us and he’s shown that he’s a good player’. As for the future Ling was pretty certain that,’Grays look like they can offer him football at a senior level though and they have an FA Trophy game at the weekend so it wouldn’t be fair of me to deny him the opportunity to further his career’.

In a parting tribute to Hanson, Ling said that,’It goes without saying that we thank Christian for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future – he deserves to make it as a player and I’m sure he will.’

Elsewhere Orient have decided that they will not be pursuing their interest in Dutch trialist Paul Weerman. Weerman, a striker, played 75 minutes of the reserve game against Northampton which Orient lost 2-0 at Brisbane Road. However, Justin McKay, the central midfielder from Basingstoke may get another chance to impress Martin Ling. The third trialist,Adam Griffiths, a defender that previously played for Watford failed to attend his trial.


In the latest transfer news, former Orient target Jon Parkin has signed for Hull City on a two and a half year deal for an undisclosed fee.