ORIENT defender Aiden Palmer is hoping to step out of the shadows of Matt Lockwood as he battles to secure his Brisbane Road future.

The 20-year-old first-year pro has arguably one of the most frustrating roles in football as back-up to long-standing O's full-back Lockwood.

But having been handed his first taste of competitive action this season, Palmer is hoping to build on his accomplished display against league leaders Scunthorpe to earn a new deal from manager Martin Ling this summer.

He said: "I was very pleased just to get out there and get a game under my belt. For it to go well was a bonus - especially as the gaffer and Dean Smith were pleased with my performance.

"I think my training with the lads all season has helped because I didn't feel out of place and it was certainly a lot easier to fit in.

"Obviously I would prefer my chance to have come in different circumstances because it is a shame that Matt is out injured at the moment. But I've just got to get my head down and work hard in these games to show the boss what I can do.

"Of course, it is frustrating when you're not playing for the first team because that is what you work all week for, but I understand that I'm going to have to be patient, as in my eyes Matt is probably the best left back outside the Premiership.

"The annoying thing for me is that he just seems to get better with age, and the fact that he is our top scorer, corner, free-kick and penalty taker shows you how important he is to the team.

"So I can understand why I've been left out this season. I'm out of contract in the summer, but I love this club so much I really want to stay here.

"Everyone at Orient has been brilliant towards me and helped me develop as a player. The fans have also been excellent because whenever I've got my chance they've been right behind me, so I just want to make sure my future is at this club."

Palmer's next aim is to help the east Londoners extend their unbeaten run at Cheltenham, with a win likely to all-but secure the O's League One status.

He said: "It is a big game for us, but because they are fighting to stay up it is going to be a very tough match."