Leyton Orient head coach Richie Wellens is looking forward to turning his focus to cup action in the coming days.

O's enjoyed an unbeaten October in League One, taking nine points from a possible 15, to leave themselves in 14th place after 15 matches.

And they now turn their attentions to an FA Cup first-round tie with league rivals Carlisle United at Brisbane Road on Saturday, before welcoming Portsmouth in the Papa John's Trophy on Tuesday.

Wellens feels they have the squad to cope with the extra games too, telling the club website: "I've never really had a cup run really because my time at Swindon we started off really, really well, we didn't have a squad to compete in the cup competitions, we wanted to win the league. 

"And very similar to last year, where you start off and win your first nine games out of 10, the squad is not really set up to win the league and have cup runs.

"But I think this year is different. Our squad is capable of dealing with two games a week, so first and foremost we want to progress in the FA Cup and then Tuesday is a big game for us because we want to progress in the Papa John's."

O's will be without Jordan Graham for much of the rest of the season after he underwent knee surgery, following an injury in last weekend's goalless draw at Burton Albion.

But Wellens has other players getting closer to returning, or being ready to contend for places, and is grateful for competitive fixtures in that regard.

"When Rob Hunt is coming back, when Adam Thompson, when Dan Agyei is coming back and when Max Sanders is coming back, Darren Pratley, Omar Beckles now, 'Sweens' [Jayden Sweeney], they need games," added Wellens.

"So rather than arranging a game on a Tuesday at someone's training ground we can actually expose them to a stadium and a match that means something.

"It's important now we get through these next few games and more games down the line for the lads that need fitness."

Graham, 28, has been backed to come back stronger from his setback, having featured in every game to date this season.

"He has shown so far this season what an important player he is for us and he is a big character around the dressing room as well," said Wellens.

"The next few months are going to be tough for him but everyone at the club is right behind him and will give him all the support he needs.

"He's suffered a similar injury before and I know that he'll be back stronger."

The winger, who had spells at Gillingham, Birmingham City and Oxford United before joining O's, also vowed to show better form when he does get back.

"I would just like to reiterate my appreciation to every single one of you that have sent your well wishes to me in what is obviously a very disappointing moment," said Graham.

"But I promise each and every one of you that you'll be getting an improved version of me when I am back on the pitch."