As a proud Scouser, Saturday is bound to be an emotional day for Orient loanee John Lundstram.

Football matches across the country will kick off seven minutes later than the scheduled time to signify when that fateful FA Cup semi-final at Hillsborough was abandoned on April 15, 1989, which saw 96 Liverpool fans lose their lives.

Midfielder Lundstram, who made his second appearance since joining from Everton against Sheffield United on Saturday, insists he will be focused on helping the O’s secure three points against Gillingham, but it will be a “big day for everyone from Liverpool.”

“It’s a big day for everyone from the city,” the 20-year-old said.

“Once you step on to the pitch the main focus is to win the game, but of course it’s a massive day for everyone from Liverpool.

“It’s important for everyone in football really so hopefully it turns out to be a good day.”

Lundstram, who made 16 appearances on loan at Championship outfit Yeovil Town earlier this season, headed to Brisbane Road on loan deadline day last month.

Taking part in a promotion campaign was a big incentive in choosing the O’s over other options.

As part of the Doncaster Rovers squad who clinched promotion to the Championship in dramatic fashion last season, the England under-20 international knows what it takes to get over the line.

Lundstram said: “There’s so much to play for. That’s the challenge I wanted to come and be a part of.

“If I can get a second promotion that would be brilliant.

“I just wanted to get out there and start playing football again. There’s the chance of going to Wembley and that’s something exciting I’d love to experience.

“It went down to the wire last season. We’ve secured the play-offs, but second place is still up for grabs.”

Lundstram is not the only Liverpudlian in the Orient squad.

Goalkeeper Jamie Jones and striker Chris Dagnall are fellow Scousers and the midfielder says this has helped him settle in after making the move south.

“It’s been a good experience,” he said. “They’re a good bunch of lads and I’ve settled well.

“There are a couple of Scousers which makes things easier.

“I don’t think I’ve shown the best of what I can do all season, even at Yeovil. But I’m finding my feet again and my confidence is back, I thought I played better than against Bradford.”