Beleaguered Leyton Orient manager Russell Slade has signed three new players in a bid to save his side from relegation.
The Os have brought in Bristol City winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce and Sunderland midfielder Adam Reed on loan, and free agent Jamie Smith has joined the club on a short-term contract.
Campbell-Ryce and Reed made their debut in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Tranmere.
The signing of Campbell-Ryce gave Slade a particular pleasure, as the manager said he fought off interest from other clubs to bring the 28-year-old to Brisbane Road.
He said: “There was competition for Jamal’s signature so we are delighted that he has decided to join us. He is an established Championship player and will add energy to our play as well as a certain know-how.”
He also had kind words for Reed, who he described as “technically very sound” with a “combative side to his game”.
Jamaican international Campbell-Ryce will add some much needed flair to a side which has scored fewer goals at home than any other team in League One.
The tricky winger is known for his tendency to cut in and run at defences, and he is capable of scoring from anywhere on the pitch.
Meanwhile, 20-year-old Reed – who had a loan spell at Orient’s London rivals Brentford last season – will add a physical presence and good passing ability to the midfield.
The Os are now just six points clear of the relegation zone with 12 games left to play, and they are without a win in their last five games.
