Striker John Marquis backs Leyton Orient ahead of trip to table-toppers Plymouth Argyle, as David Ironmonger reports.
Leyton Orient loanee John Marquis revealed the O’s are confident ahead of their trip to Plymouth Argyle.
The striker – who is on loan from League One side Millwall – produced arguably his best display for the east Londoners in their 3-2 victory over York City on the weekend, and is hoping that Ian Hendon’s side can make the most of the Pilgrims recent dip in form at Home Park on Tuesday night.
“You might call it an upset but for me I don’t see it that way, they [Plymouth] have been on a rocky patch themselves recently so we can definitely go there and win,” said Marquis, speaking after Saturday’s match.
“They are not playing great at home all we can do now is prep ourselves right and make sure we are ready. It is a big week but we have started it off with three points and we hope to continue it.”
The 23-year-old produced a brilliant assist for the first of Jay Simpson’s two goals on Saturday, but admitted the O’s need to improve defensively.
“As always there are areas in which we can improve. Hopefully soon we can start keeping some clean sheets. The first goal was a bit unlucky, but if we can keep clean sheets it obviously helps the attackers and that starts by defending from the front.
“We know what Plymouth are about. They are top of the league for a reason but we are going to go there optimistic so we can try and get a good result.”
Permanent
Marquis’ loan deal comes to an end in January and he has rarely played in his natural forward position since arriving in E10, but regarding making the move to Orient a permanent one the forward kept his cards close to his chest.
“At times my performances haven’t been up to my standard, maybe I came in with expectations too high. When I play in my best position I have a lot to offer, but all I can do now is help to team as much as I can whether that’s on the left or the right, at right back.
“I’m here to help the team. I just want to be playing games and if I can have more performances like that we can’t rule anything out in football,” he added.
Saturday’s victory also saw Orient hand debuts to new defensive additions Jean-Yves M’Voto and youngster Cole Kpekawa, and they now look to thwart the table toppers, and in particular top scorer Jake Jervis.