Leyton Orient in the spotlight ahead of game with Bristol Rovers

Boss Geraint Williams and skipper Stephen Purches insist Leyton Orient don't need to fear mixing it with the big boys this season.

The widespread perception is that League One will be even tougher to escape this season now the likes of Charlton, Norwich and Southampton have joined Leeds and MK Dons in their third tier of English football.

Full-back Purches said: "In the nine years I will have played at this level, the league is the strongest it has ever been. There are some big teams in there, but you have to remember they are in there for a reason and we should not fear them.

"They are just names at the moment. Just because there are some big clubs in there with us, they have no divine right to be successful. Whoever is consistent will do well."

Despite flirting with relegation last season, former Bristol Rovers player Williams steered the O's to 14th place and a comfortable mid-table finish last term.

"We finished well and we will be doing all we can to build on that," added Puches. "The manager has brought in some experienced lads and some younger ones too and I believe we have a good balance."

Williams, who made 141 league outings for the Pirates in the 1980s, said: "There are big clubs with big budgets and it's going to be a challenge this season. But it's a challenge that's appealing and, if we get our preparation right and do the right things on the field, there is no reason why we can't win games.

"I don't think there have ever been so many big hitters in this division, but that should not worry us. We have players here with character and players here with quality. I'm not really concerned about the opposition, it's down to what we do, and if we play with purpose and intent and think about what we're doing, then this division will not hold any fears.

"I know about going to the Memorial Stadium. It's a tough place and Bristol Rovers will be a solid, well-drilled side and they have Rickie Lambert up front, who is always a handful."

Orient expect new signing Adam Chorley (Achilles problem) to be fit to line up in defence. But the visitors will be without midfielder Adam Chambers, who has a calf problem.

Orient yesterday signed 18-year-old Spurs winger Andros Townsend on a month's loan.