Orient sign Watford's Morris as Beckles leaves

Leyton Orient have signed Watford left-back James Morris on a two-and-a-half-year contract, with an option for a further 12 months.

No transfer fee has been disclosed by the two clubs for the 24-year-old, who has only made three appearances for the Hornets this season.

"We first tried to get him in the summer and, this month, we have had to wait for a couple of other things to take place before we could get the deal over the line," Orient boss Richie Wellens told the League One club's website., external

Morris began his career in the Southampton academy and joined Watford in 2021, with his first-team debut coming in an FA Cup tie at Leicester City in January 2022.

Meanwhile, Orient club captain - and current Professional Footballers' Association chair - Omar Beckles has left the club by mutual agreement to join League Two side Gillingham.

The 34-year-old played more than 200 games for the club in all competitions and helped them win promotion from League Two in 2023.

"On field, his impact has been there for everyone to see since he joined us. Off the pitch, he is a thoughtful, measured and intelligent man who represents everything that Leyton Orient stands for," said a board statement.