It would be fair to say that defeat to MK Dons was not on anyone in E10’s Christmas list.

The 3-0 loss was hard to take in some respects not because the O’s conceded three unanswered goals, but more due to the fact they had enjoyed the better of the first half.

A quick glance at the league table as well as the Dons’ away record suggested it would be a difficult contest for Orient but as Russell Slade himself acknowledged after the game, there was nothing in the first half to suggest MK would record such a comfortable victory.

They say “things can only get better”. Well, if that’s the case for the O’s, we can expect a big performance on Saturday when the Sky Sports cameras are present for the visit of Charlton Athletic.

The Addicks currently head the pack in League One and have picked up nine victories on the road so far this campaign.

Clearly Chris Powell’s side are confident travellers but they also say “all good things come to an end”.

Athletic’s last three league games have seen them claim two draws and one win – that coming courtesy of an injury time strike from Danny Green at strugglers Yeovil Town. Decent form, but arguably, not convincing.

Slade has called for a reaction from the O’s and maybe Charlton will get more than they bargained for when they arrive at Brisbane Road.

I’m feeling positive though and think Orient could get something from this game although, given the visitors’ status as runaway leaders, there won’t be much in it.