MARTIN Ling has moved to quash rumours of a rift with Orient chairman Barry Hearn.

Stories have been circulating in recent weeks that the pair have had a major falling out over the club's budget, which has been cited as the reason for the O's sliding out of the play-off frame.

But Orient manager Ling said: "I have no idea where these stories come from, because me and Barry have always had a really good relationship.

"This was made clear at the clubs' AGM recently, although I still think people believe something happened.

"But I want to make it clear I get on with Barry and we speak nearly every day, there is also no problem regarding the budget I have to work with.

"Of course it would be nice to have more funds, but I know the restrictions the club has to put in place to stay afloat and nothing has really changed in the 12 years I've been here working for Barry.

"To be honest I just want to get on with my job and while it looks like we wont make the play-off's now I will still be looking at the response I get from the players over the next five games.

"I am already looking forward to building on this season. I feel we can learn a lot from this campaign and have a real crack at pushing for promotion next time."