Recently, O's right back Jake Caprice has been on the receiving end of criticism due to some poor performances since he joined Leyton Orient in the summer from Woking on a free transfer. In this article I will share my opinion on Caprice, the good and the bad.
Jake Caprice has been on the back end of criticism from many fans on Twitter and I am no different, he hasn't had the best of seasons but since January in particular he just hasn't been up to standard.
It isn't just us fans who are becoming frustrated with the player, in the last few weeks Justin Edinburgh's patience has certainly worn thin. Following his poor display in our 1-0 home defeat to Torquay United last week, he was dropped for the 0-0 draw at Eastleigh on Saturday.
Despite his critics, he did start the season well. By November, Caprice was one of the leading players for assists in the National League - which seems remarkable considering he's a one footed full-back who struggles with committing to challenges and is a very poor crosser. I remember the Ebbsfleet game at home the other week were he just got turned inside out by wingers Corey Whitley and Luke Coulson.
I personally think Caprice is a weak link to the squad and there is better options at full-back in our very large squad. In addition to this, I thought Sam Ling looked promising against Eastleigh as he displayed a high work rate, looked energetic and was unlucky with a few balls.
I like Myles Judd but I feel the acquisition of Ling is maybe a way of forcing him out - while Nathan Mavillia, who we signed in January from Wingate & Finchley, looks good but I'm yet to see him play for the O's.
Furthermore, another way I've heard people defend Caprice is that he is actually a natural winger, explaining why he is hesitant in tackles and doesn't like getting back. Caprice was also dropped from England C's recent fixtures in which they beat Wales 3-2, where new signing Ling actually featured.
If we want to compete in the promotion battle next season, it's important that we include players that are in good form. Players like Caprice have proved in recent times they are not up to standard, especially during our long stints without wins and dips in form.