Leyton Orient director of football Martin Ling says allowing Steven Alzate and Tristan Abrahams to leave the club is the right decision for the pairs’ development.

Alzate has joined Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion while Abrahams, who will be loaned back to the O’s for the 2017/18 season, heads to Carrow Road with Norwich City.

While Ling accepts losing both players is a blow, he insists the transfers are in the best interests of all those involved.

“We know that some supporters will be disappointed to learn that we have made the decision to accept these offers,” Ling told the club website.

“As a club we must balance the need to create a well-balanced team, the opportunities for these young players and the financial opportunity for ourselves.

“In accepting these offers, we have allowed both Steven and Tristan to continue to reach their potential, as well as protecting the club’s position in the event of the players going on to enjoy future success.

“These deals are life-changing opportunities for both players and we are proud to have helped develop them to this point.”

The departures come after a summer of busy recruitment for the Brisbane Road club, which has seen them look to rebuild a depleted squad.

Youngsters will still form a large chunk of Steve Davis’ squad heading into the opening day of the season on Saturday.

Ling takes a sense of achievement from Orient’s commitment to promoting from within and believes the O’s business has been largely productive.

He said: “When the club was purchased just over a month ago, we found ourselves with a squad consisting of very young players who we are extremely proud to have seen progress through our academy.

“Over recent weeks, we have worked tirelessly to add to that squad and create a balance with the signings made, by bringing in players with a wealth of experience, energy, promise and balance.”