We're cheating our supporters - Wellens

Wellens says Leyton Orient's squad lacks the fitness and consistency to challenge for the play-offs after a 2-1 loss to Burton left them 15th.

Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens has criticised his players' fitness levels and consistency following a 2-1 defeat at Burton Albion on Saturday, which left the O's in 15th place, six points off the play-off spots.

Wellens told BBC Radio London that the team's performances are "cheating" supporters who expect them to challenge at the top of League One. He highlighted defensive vulnerabilities, noting that Burton's two goals came from counter-attacks where Orient couldn't get back in time. "Physically it was very disappointing," he said, adding that the squad is "not consistent enough and the fitness levels are nowhere near" the required standard.

The manager acknowledged that deadline-day signings Dane Scarlett and Alex Gilbert had not completed a full pre-season and were being brought up to match fitness during competitive games. With no friendly matches available, Wellens said competitive minutes were the only way to build their conditioning, though both players visibly tired late in the Burton match.