IF ORIENT want to be strong at the back next season then big, loud, boxing-mad defender Ben Chorley looks like the man for the job.

The 26-year-old secured his dream move to London last Wednesday.

And what he has to say about how he plays the game should delight O’s fans.

“There’s nothing better than getting clean sheets,” Chorley said. “I’d much rather defend on the goal line than score a goal myself.

“I’m also very vocal. I like to win headers and tackles, and to organise.

“I’m a strong centre half, to sum it up.”

The 6’3” defender left Tranmere Rovers on a free transfer to sign a two-year deal at Orient.

He told the Guardian that it was easy for him to pick the O’s out of the four southern suitor clubs who all wanted his services.

“It was nice to get quite a bit of interest once the season had ended and I made the decision to go with Orient for the whole package,” he said.

“Once I spoke to Geraint Williams (Orient manager) it was a done deal, really.

“I’d heard how good a coach he is, and how successful he was with Orient at the end of last season. He didn’t just phone me with the offer, he made me feel wanted and persuaded me that this is a club that’s going places.

“He sold the club to me. It’s very positive.”

Chorley added: “As a man, we sat down and spoke about a lot of other things away from football too. He knew what I’m about and I learned what he’s about. It was really positive. It made my mind up.

“He wants to be successful and I want to be a part of that,” the new arrival continued.

“To be successful you have to be strong. Last season at Tranmere we had a high number of clean sheets and I know Orient were good at the back too. Now I want to make it stronger and add my experience.”

Chorley began his career at Arsenal, so is more than just a ‘lump’ of a centre back.

He could form a formidable partnership with the classy Tamika Mkandawire, if Orient can keep the Malawian at Brisbane Road this summer.

“I played against him a few times,” Chorley said of his new team-mate.

“He’s big and strong and I think we’ll complement each other well, and hopefully have a good partnership.”

For now he is getting used to his new surroundings, including the flats at each corner of the Matchroom Stadium pitch.

“They’re different. I don’t know if tickets for home games come with the price of one of those. Everyone knows Barry Hearn (Orient chairman) is a big man in business, and I’m a massive boxing fan, so I’ll desperately be plugging him for tickets!”