Preview: Crewe Alexandra vs. Leyton Orient - prediction, team news, lineups

Meanwhile, the home side play host to the frontrunners on the back of a four-game winless streak, one which has left them in 18th position.

Match preview

In recent weeks, Leyton Orient have gone from runaway leaders to putting together a run of just one win in seven matches, remarkably scoring just the one goal.

That has allowed the chasing pack to make inroads into their previously wide advantage, but Richie Wellens was able to breathe a sigh of relief on Saturday as Orient posted a 1-0 triumph over AFC Wimbledon.

Although it was a far from convincing win, it capitalised on Stevenage, Carlisle United and Northampton Town all failing to prevail from their own fixtures, leaving Orient 10 points clear of fourth spot.

Despite having the title at the front of their priority queue for now, Orient know that top three is the long-term goal, and they will now feel back on track to some extent.

Wellens's side have also kept seven clean sheets in their most recent 10 outings, something which should not be lost when negative judgments are formed on their recent displays.

As far as Crewe are concerned, it feels a long time ago since they were hinting at a title bid back in the summer, and it is their early burst of wins which has kept them out of trouble for the time being.

More recently, Lee Bell's side have emerged victorious in just one of their last eight league games, leaving the club seven points above the relegation zone.

All things considered, three points here and there will ensure that they do not become embroiled in a scrap for safety, but being soundly beaten 3-0 by Grimsby Town at the weekend will do little for the mood at the Mornflake Stadium.

On the flip side, that was their first defeat in five and the end of a run at home where they have previously collected five points from three matches.

Crewe Alexandra League Two form:

L

W

D

D

D

L

Leyton Orient League Two form:

L

W

D

L

L

W

Team News

Having used all five of his allotted substitutions by the hour mark on Saturday, Bell seems likely to tinker with his Crewe XI for this match.

Sean Robertson and Ryan Finnigan are both pushing for their first starts in a Crewe shirt since making loan moves from Forest Green Rovers and Southampton respectively.

Charlie Colkett is also in contention to feature in midfield, potentially being introduced to form a trio in the middle of the pitch.

Fewer alterations are expected to be made to the Orient starting lineup with full-back Tom James most likely to come back into the team.

With Rob Hunt likely to miss out through injury, James could be used on the right or left flank, with either Adam Thompson or Jayden Sweeney featuring on the opposite side.

Crewe Alexandra possible starting lineup:

Richards; Robertson, Offord, O'Riordan, Adebisi; Colkett, Thomas, Finnigan; Amoo, Nevitt, Agyei

Leyton Orient possible starting lineup:

Vigouroux; James, Beckles, Turns, Sweeney; Lyden, Mizouni; Archibald, Moncur, Sadlier; Kelman

We say: Crewe Alexandra 1-2 Leyton Orient

Before the weekend, Crewe would have been anticipating this game as one which they could take advantage of, given Orient's previous slump. However, the visitors should have enough quality and momentum to edge this fixture now that they have returned to winning ways.

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