Defender Ling Makes Leyton Orient Return

The 21-year-old defender re-joins the O`s, having made twenty-nine appearances for John Still’s men this season.

Born in Broxbourne, Ling started his career at the O’s, captaining the youth team before making the move to Dagenham in July 2016, earning a call up to the England C squad this season.

Head coach Justin Edinburgh told the club`s official website: “I identified players who I thought would benefit the club this season but more particularly next season. Sam was high on my list and had attracted interest from Football League sides, so we’re delighted to bring him back to the club. As Sam is the son of our director of football, Martin Ling, it was decided that Martin was to remove himself from the decision which was ultimately made by me in consultation with the Board.”

Chairman Nigel Travis commented: “Naturally this was a very delicate decision, involving many angles both personally and from a football perspective. We are ambitious for success and Justin convinced us that Sam would considerably strengthen our squad. Martin understands and agrees that he will stay removed from all decisions involving Sam while he remains at the
club”.