Ross Embleton: Leyton Orient appoint interim boss as head coach

Ross Embleton began his coaching career at Leyton Orient's centre of excellence

Leyton Orient have appointed interim manager Ross Embleton as their new head coach on a 12-month rolling contract.

The 38-year-old has won seven games and drawn eight of his 26 in caretaker charge over two stints this season.

He was first appointed following Justin Edinburgh's death in June and again took over in November when Carl Fletcher was sacked after just 29 days.

"We are confident that Ross is the right person to lead the O's forward," said Orient chairman Nigel Travis.

Travis said improvements in results in League Two, the development of the squad and Embleton's "desire to take up the role" saw his get the job.

"For a number of reasons it has been a difficult season and therefore the board, alongside (director of football) Martin Ling, have been very deliberate in the search for the club's new head coach and we are pleased to appoint Ross Embleton," Travis said in a statement.

"His ability to lead the players, and his coaching staff, is superb and he provides stability, which is essential, given the events of the season."

The O's are 19th in the League Two table after 25 games, eight points above bottom side Morecambe.

Orient will be looking to improve their survival hopes by strengthening in the January transfer window, and have already signed former Swindon Town goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux on free transfer and extended the loan of George Marsh.

"Ross will be encouraged to reinforce the first-team," said Travis.