Leyton Orient: Kevin Nugent confirms interim manager role

Nugent began his playing career at Leyton Orient and made over 150 appearances for the club during two spells

Kevin Nugent has confirmed he has been appointed as interim manager of League One side Leyton Orient.

The 45-year-old had been in caretaker charge since Russell Slade resigned as O's boss last month.

Speaking after Saturday's 0-0 draw with MK Dons, Nugent told BBC London 94.9: "I just want to be in charge at the moment. It's all about winning games.

"If I win games then I'll stay. If not then someone else may come in. Whatever is best for Orient is what counts."

Whether Nugent had been offered the job was initially in doubt, with sporting director Mauro Milanese dismissing a deal as "a rumour".

However Nugent, who was appointed as assistant manager at the Matchroom Stadium in 2009, did receive a contract offer and signed it prior to the 2-2 draw at Sheffield United last weekend.

"I didn't really speak about it afterwards as I didn't want to take away from the game and the performance," Nugent added.

"It is a bit unusual but things change all the time in football.

"Basically it means I am in charge of the team at the moment, and that is how it is."

Nugent has picked up two points from four League One games since taking charge of the O's and has led the side to victory over Dagenham in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

The east London side, who lost in the play-off final last season, are currently 20th in the table.

"I'm not sure how much contracts for managers mean anyway now," Nugent said.

"I will be taking charge of the team and the coaching and will be running it how I want to run it

"If I were to step back to number two again, then so be it. I certainly don't fear that situation."