ORIENT can rarely have been more highly praised than by new boy Jimmy Smith, who says: It's just like Chelsea!

Unfortunately, the 22 year-old is not comparing the two clubs' trophy cabinets, although he does think that the O's have a recipe for success.

It is boss Geraint Williams' coaching regime which Smith praised with comparison to his illustrious former club in West London.

He told the Guardian: “With Williams, we do exactly the same drills as the coaches at Chelsea do. It shows me that the knowledge is there.

“He's just as good a manager to work under and everyone wants to give it 100 per cent for him.“

That is high praise from a man who got his Premier League début from Jose Mourinho, the Champions League winner and self styled 'Special One.'

“A lot of the training is with the ball” he explained. “We all want to get the ball down and keep it moving. It's very enjoyable. He does the stuff we love to do.“

Smith joins the O's from Chelsea on a two year contract that he signed last week.

He returns to Brisbane Road after spending three successful months there on loan last season.

Williams signed the player for nothing and the deal looks a real coup, because Smith displayed qualities which suggest he could be a real force in League One.

And his new boss would be delighted to learn that Smith even relishes the training.

He said: “We had a short break, but I think it was a bit long, as I get a bit bored on my holidays. I was looking forward to getting into back into it, and the first game of the season.”

Smith proved his worth to Orient with a series of assured and dynamic performances in midfield with Sean Thornton and Jason Demetriou, last season.

“We turned in winning performances, home and away" he recalled. "That was because the gaffer gelled us together and got us working hard. I think that's what really did it."

And for someone who learnt his trade at Chelsea, Smith has lofty ambitions. He wants to make the play-off's.

“I think Orient are going in the right direction and have ambition.

“We've all set individual targets and the boss has a target. We all believe the team is good enough to be up there challenging for the play-off's. If we can be consistent we'll do well.”

“The move is also good as it's a good location for me and my family.”

“I'm just happy to sign because I enjoyed it on loan last season. I've signed the two year deal and now I'm looking forward to the start of the season.”