This Boxing Day, as usual, saw plenty of football, both in England and across Europe. There was a full slate across the entire English Football League, meaning plenty of games for Tottenham Hotspur loanees. Let’s take a look at how those in League One action got on this bank holiday.
Another great day at the office for loanees and their side
To begin, at 13:00 GMT, Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley’s Leyton Orient were in action during the early kick off, as they hosted Crawley Town. As has been the case in recent weeks, both Keeley and Donley were named in the starting XI by manager Richie Wellens for this one.
It would prove to be another very successful day all round. After 33 minutes, Orient took the lead, before doubling their advantage five minutes into the second half. Then, another five minutes later, they made it 3-0 – and that would be the final goal of the game, as the O’s managed to record another good victory.
Although there were no goals or assists this time, it was another really impressive performance from Donley. The teenager was the highest rated player of the game, and recorded; 69 touches, four chances created, two big chances created, 9/14 ground duels won, three fouls drawn, one interception, and four tackles.
Furthermore, the midfielder got another 90 minutes under his belt, making it 889 minutes in League One this season. After a tough period earlier on, the 19-year old has really managed to make that number ten spot his own – starting the last six games in all competitions.
Then, yet another clean sheet in goal for Keeley – who made two saves and two high claims in this one. The Irish goalkeeper has now kept five clean sheets in a row in League One, where Orient have picked up 13 points. The last goal he conceded was on the 30th of November, in the same game he scored a last minute equaliser to help Wellens’ side into the FA Cup third round.
This superb form from Orient has seen them rise to 13th in the League, with 28 points from their 21 games – just six points off a play-off spot. It has been a great time for both loanees individually, as well as the collective. Couldn’t ask for much more.
Meanwhile, Matthew Craig was not named in Barnsley’s match day squad for their win over Bolton Wanderers. The midfielder had started his first game since October last week, but was withdrawn before half time. Should recent reports be true, the 21-year old may have played his last club for the South Yorkshire outfit.