QPR and Tottenham Hotspur loan stars impressed on loan at Leyton Orient last season with questions now to answer over their futures.
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Leyton Orient have confirmed the club’s retained list following the conclusion of their 2024/25 season, which was extended thanks to a run in the League One play-offs.
The O’s ultimately couldn’t book a place in the Championship next season, losing the play-off final at Wembley Stadium to Charlton Athletic. It was, nonetheless, an impressive campaign for Richie Wellens and his side, who were buoyed by several loan stars.
In a statement published on the club website, Leyton Orient have now confirmed the players that will leave Brisbane Road this summer. Those include QPR talisman Charlie Kelman and Spurs duo in attacking midfielder Jamie Donley and goalkeeper Josh Keeley.
Leyton Orient stars return to QPR and Tottenham Hotspur
In the statement, head coach Richie Wellens said: “Each and every one of my players gave me absolutely everything this season, and they have all been a pleasure to work with. This group has been special – one of the best I have ever worked with as a player or manager – and that makes these decisions even tougher.
“This summer, we will say goodbye to some players who have been with us for a long time, and I can only thank them for their service to our football club. They have played a huge role in our climb up the ladder, and I wish them all the very best for the future.
“Jordan Graham and Theo Archibald put their bodies on the line for us and we will continue to support them throughout their recovery from injury by having them around the training ground. I’m looking forward to seeing them both back playing again, be that with us or someone else.”
Kelman, Keeley and Donley will return to QPR and Tottenham Hotspur, but confirmation that Leyton Orient have not struck a permanent deal will only ignite what could be a transfer saga for both players. The duo enjoyed head-turning seasons in the third tier.
Kelman was the League One top scorer with 21 goals in the division. He returns to Loftus Road, where he extended his contract in January 2024 but has never found form. The 23-year-old has played 26 times for the club but never scored.
Marti Cifuentes and Ange Postecoglou on loan trio
There will be no shortage of interest in the player’s services given his form last season and QPR could do with a prolific marksman themselves. When asked about the player in March, QPR head coach Marti Cifuentes did not commit to offering the player a place in his squad next term. He said: “When we send any player on loan the main target is that they can play, can develop and progress.
“That’s the case with him and it’s not just about the goals but the level of his performances has been very good. Hopefully he will finish the season very strongly, and we will decide what’s the next step with him.”
Meanwhile, Donley has another four years to run on his contract at Tottenham Hotspur but is unlikely to be considered a first team regular next season as the club prepares for Champions League football. The player is still just 20 years old and picked up eight goals and 10 assists in League One last season. 22-year-old Keeley has two more years on his Spurs deal.
Another loan spell seems likely for the duo and, again, there will be no shortage of options thanks to his performances at Brisbane Road. Speaking about the players last month, Ange Postecoglou said: “Yeah, I watched the game last night, it was a cracking game and super pleased for both of them. You know, when players go on loan, obviously, the key for it is for them to get match minutes and development.
“I think both of those guys have, but it’s even better if they’re part of something that could be special for them in terms of success. I think that helps as well in terms of their own self-belief and being part of something successful. So yeah, super pleased with them, it’ll be a great occasion and hopefully they get through.
“I think with all these things, they’re for the off-season when guys come back. Right now our focus is fairly on what’s happening in the next two weeks.”
In other news, Club 'really fear' Tottenham will steal manager to replace Ange Postecoglou.