A return to home soil against Sheffield United is just what the doctor ordered, according to Orient boss Russell Slade.

Two tough away games in four days in the West Country yielded four points, a decent return says Slade considering the travel involved.

“It’s an excellent return, even though we were so close to making it six,” said the manager.

“It will be nice to play at home. We didn’t get back from Bristol until 2.15am on Wednesday morning and some of the players are struggling to recover.”

The O’s sit second in League One, a point shy of Wolves, while United are in the relegation.

Captain Nathan Clarke and midfielder Lloyd James are struggling with knocks, and Slade says it’s “too early to say” whether they will be fit for the clash at Brisbane Road.

The manager is expecting a tough battle against a side who are “much more resilient” since Nigel Clough took the helm.

Since the former Derby boss replaced David Weir, United have lost two of six games in all competitions and they’ve won their last two on the road.

He said: “It will be a tough game.

“They’re a much more resilient side since Nigel came in so it will be difficult.”

Orient’s visit to Ashton Gate was City manager Sean O’Driscoll’s last game in charge of the Robins, who left his role with the club yesterday.

Twice they battled back from a goal down to hold the O’s to a 2-2 draw, and Slade is surprised that the club have parted company with the manager.

“Against us they gave a very good, improved performance,” he said.

“We were top when we went there, so I am a little surprised.”