Orient striker Ibehre up for reserve action

11:05am Tuesday 5th February 2008

ORIENT striker Jabo Ibehre claims he is feeling in good shape' ahead of his reserve run out this afternoon against Southampton.

The 25-year-old frontman scored on his return for the first team with the dramatic stoppage time equaliser in the 2-2 draw with Southend on Saturday.

His appearance as a second half sub, was his first action in a month after being ruled out with an achilles injury.

But Ibehre is now hoping to get his stop-start season up and running.

He said: "At the moment I feel in good shape and I'm just happy to be back out on the pitch after another frustrating month.

"Hopefully now I can stay injury free until the end of the season and help the team enjoy a successful run in."

Ibehre will be joined up front by fellow striker Wayne Gray, who having also featured he substitute against the Shrimpers continues his comeback from a thigh injury.

Another player making a return from injury is Clayton Fortune, who will start alongside Sam Oji in the heart of the O's backline after recovering from a twice-dislocated shoulder.

Fellow professionals Glenn Morris, AIden Palmer and Efe Echanomi will add experience to Orient's second string, who are looking for a fourth straight win.

The Saints, who currently second in the Pontin's Holidays Combination Central Division, could go top with a victory.

Kick-off at Brisbane Road is at 2pm, with admission to the match priced £5 adults and £3 concessions. Orient season ticket holders are admitted free of charge.