Martin Ling goes into tonight's FA Cup clash with Sheffield United confident Leyton Orient can progress, even though his team are without a win in their last six matches.

A comprehensive defeat at Leicester on Saturday means the victory over Bradford City in the second round on 29 November was their last. Crucially, Orient have triumphed in only two of their 11 home League games this season, scoring just nine goals at Brisbane Road.

United, challenging for promotion from the Championship, will start clear favourites to secure a fourth round tie against either Charlton or Norwich, but Ling insisted: "This is a winnable game if we play to our potential. Strikers are part of the problem, but creating chances is another one. It's a problem that runs throughout the team.

"It's nice to get away from the League, to be honest. The Christmas period was draining for us. The results were poor, so the FA Cup will bring a little light relief. And a good result could help kick-start our League form."

Ling's striking options have been boosted hopes by Sam Parkin, whose loan from Luton Town has been extended for another fortnight, while Sean Thornton will return to midfield after serving a one-match ban.