Orient defender believes Granville's experience will be a big help

7:58am Friday 20th June 2008

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TAMIKA MKANDAWIRE is excited about the prospect of linking up with new O's signing Danny Granville, writes Sam Lom-Bor.

The 25-year-old centre back has spoken of how he wants to learn from the experience of Granville, who won a European Cup Winners' Cup medal with Chelsea in 1998.

He said:"I think you can learn a lot from any older player.

"He's been at some very high profile clubs, so obviously I look forward to learning from him."

He also thinks that the 33 year-old left-back can help shore up the O's defence, which let in 63 goals in League One last season. He added: "His experience will benefit us."

Granville has had a fruitful career at the top flight English football, playing for Chelsea, Leeds and Manchester City around the turn of the century. He will become the oldest member of the Orient squad when he joins them for pre-season training and his experience will surely be invaluable to the relatively young squad.

Meanwhile, Mkandawire is confident that the signing of Granville will only be the start of O's boss Martin Ling's summer recruitment plans, as the team push for a higher position in the table than last season's 14th spot.

The former Hereford man said: "We want to build on what happened here last season.

"The Gaffer won't bring in anyone who he thinks won't improve the team.

"I think bringing in players will be an improvement to the squad."