"Tom James has been a vital part of our success in the last five years. He is a brilliant person and I can't speak highly enough of him. However, the O's were now looking for a type of full-back with different qualities, indicating a strategic shift in recruitment priorities."
"Defender Happe, 27, has spent his whole career with the club, making 252 league appearances since his debut in 2017. James, 30, moved to Brisbane Road in 2021 and has played 191 times in all competitions, scoring 11 goals, making 37 appearances this season."
Leyton Orient made significant squad changes following a season where they narrowly avoided relegation despite reaching the League One play-off final in 2024-25. The club released defender Jack Simpson and full-back Tom James, who had been integral to the team's recent success. James, 30, had made 191 appearances since joining in 2021, but head coach Richie Wellens indicated the club seeks full-backs with different qualities. Meanwhile, the O's offered a new contract to defender Dan Happe, 27, who has spent his entire career at the club with 252 league appearances. Additional releases included Tobi Oluwayemi, Makai Welch, and Diallang Jaiyesimi, while Theo Archibald triggered a contract extension.
Read at www.bbc.com
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