Josh Coulson has paid tribute to fan favourite David Mooney following the experienced striker’s departure from Leyton Orient two weeks ago.

Mooney’s contract was terminated by mutual consent after he failed to feature in any of Orient’s match-day squads this season.

That decision brought the 33-year-old’s second spell with the East London club to an end, after he returned to Brisbane Road following his release from Southend United in July 2017 on a two-year deal.

In total, Mooney scored 57 goals in 212 appearances across his two spells with the club and he will be fondly remembered by O’s fans for his role in helping Orient reach the League One Play Off final under Russell Slade during the 2013/14 campaign.

The Irish striker scored 21 goals that campaign and struck up a prolific partnership with Kevin Lisbie up top for the O’s.

Coulson only moved to Brisbane Road last summer from Cambridge United but learnt rather quickly about Mooney’s status in East London.

Speaking after last weekend’s win over Barnet, the defender paid tribute to the experienced striker and also thanked Mooney for the way he helped him settle into life in East London.

Coulson said: “What he (Mooney) has done for this club is brilliant. When I first came, he helped me out and settle in so well. I’ve never seen anything like it. He’s a good man.

“When I first came, I knew a couple of players but I didn’t really know Moons. I’d played against him but the way he helped me settle in was second to none and I can’t thank him enough for that. I wish him all the best for what is next for him in his career”