ORIENT boss Martin Ling has secured a signature on the dotted line as he strengthens his squad as the dog-fight against the drop gets tough.

On Wednesday, 19-year-old defender Luke Ashworth signed a two-and-a-half year contract from Premier League Wigan.

His permanent move to Brisbane Road follows a two month loan spell at the O’s earlier this season, when the teenager made five first team performances.

Ling explained his signing, which comes in the midst of a desperate search for a striker.

"I feel that we've been one light in the centre half department all season, and although we've covered that with loans so far, it's better to bring Luke in permanently.

"He did very well during his time with us on loan and he's certainly one for the future."

The O’s supremo has secured Ashworth’s services by free transfer and the youngster could be the final piece in the defence jig-saw.

"Luke has joined us on a long-term contract and I'm delighted to bring him back to Brisbane Road” said Ling.

"With Tam, Brian Saah and Alton Thelwell in there too, I'm very happy with that part of my squad.”

Ashworth might get a chance to impress fans at Brisbane Road tomorrow, when Bristol Rovers visit arrive for what is a crunch League One clash.

Currently, Rovers sit 16th in the table, four places above Orient, who languish in 20th, inside the drop zone.

But a win could send Orient up to 17th, if the teams around them slip up.

Orient will relish the chance to avenge the defeat inflicted upon them by Rovers when the pair last met, in October. Then, O’s left the Pirates bay on the wrong side of a 2-1 scoreline.

But Rovers were raided at Brisbane Road last season. Then, Orient plundered the three points with a 3-1 win.