Josh Coulson has praised Marvin Ekpiteta and Myles Judd’s desire to learn and believes the Leyton Orient duo have bright futures ahead of him in the game.

Both Ekpiteta and Judd have starred for the O’s this campaign in defence, with the duo enjoying extended runs in the side following injuries to George Elokobi as well as Sam Ling.

Academy graduate Judd had to wait patiently for his chance at the start of the campaign, having missed out on a place in Orient’s match-day squads for the opening games of the season, but has excelled at right-back since coming into the side against Maidstone United last month.

Ekpiteta, meanwhile, joined Orient from East Thurrock United in January and has proven himself to be a reliable figure at the back since making his home debut against Barrow in April.

Having been on the bench against Salford City on the opening day of the season, Ekpiteta got his chance against Ebbsfleet United following Elokobi’s injury and hasn’t looked back since, forging a strong partnership with Coulson at centre-back.

Like many, experienced centre-half Coulson has been impressed by the duo’s performances on the pitch and has praised their attitude as well as their desire to learn.

Asked about Ekpiteta and Judd after Saturday’s win over Barnet, Coulson said: “I’m very impressed. They both want to learn and that’s the main thing. I think there’s some kids that don’t really want to learn as they think they know better. But those two beside us, they really want to learn.

“So, if you tell them something, they instantly do it. They’re both showing what they’re about and I think the future is promising for them both.”