Jason sets himself a double-figure target

ORIENT midfielder Jason Demetriou might have missed out in the scoring stakes against Newcastle on Saturday, but the highly-rated youngster has set himself a 10-goal target for the new season, writes TREVOR DAVIES.

Demetriou, who has scored 12 goals in 125 appearances, said: "I always set myself a target of 10 goals, and have never done it.

"Last year I scored six in all competitions and wasn't happy. But I really do believe I can do it this season."

It was a good weekend for Demetriou, as he played a leading role in Orient's 6-1 success against Newcastle, and was then called up into the Cyprus squad for their friendly with Albania.

It will mean a busy start to the season for Demetriou, but the 21-year-old hopes he will not miss an Orient game.

He believes he may be able to delay his departure until after Orient's Carling Cup clash at Colchester, and then fly back straight after the international game in time for Orient's match with Oldham Athletic on the Saturday.

"I can't wait for the international, but I really don't want to miss any Orient games, because I really think we will do well this year," said Demetriou.

"You don't want to lose your place in the side, because we have some real quality here this season and if someone gets your shirt, it will be difficult to get it back.

"People have said the team picks itself, but it doesn't.

"We have a very good squad and that's healthy. The manager will have some tough decisions to make."

Demetriou, who played 83 minutes of Orient's demolition of the Magpies on Saturday added: "Of course, we're keeping our feet on the floor and not getting carried away after the Newcastle result, but it really helps the confidence and you could really feel the boost it gave everyone in training on Monday.

"It was as if we had made a real step up and the game had been all over the news at the weekend.

"I think there is better individual quality in the squad this season and I honestly feel we could push for a top-six place.

"There are some big names here, people like James Scowcroft, and I think we will score more goals this season.

"In pre-season, the strikers have all been scoring and the midfield have been chipping in and that's what makes a team work.

"And I really don't think I have played in front of a stronger defence. It's the strongest I have ever seen it.

"Our back four would get into virtually every side in our division and I don't think there will be a better defensive pairing than Tamika Mkandawire and Ben Chorley. With the tremendous team spirit, we just can't wait to start.

"I wasn't really looking forward to pre-season, but by next weekend it will be over and we will be preparing for Bristol Rovers.