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LINCOLN City boss Michael Appleton says he understands Leeds United's decision to end Robbie Gotts' loan spell and instead send him to Salford City.

Gotts joined League One side Lincoln on a season-long in October but the 21-year-old was recalled by Leeds last Friday and immediately loaned to League Two outfit Salford for the remainder of the campaign.

Playing in midfield and at right back, Gotts made 13 appearances for the Imps but only four league starts and his other five appearances from the outset came in either the FA Cup or the Football League Trophy.

The Whites youngster scored his first goal for Lincoln in the 4-0 win at home to Accrington in the Football League Trophy on January 12 but that was to prove his last outing in an Imps shirt.

'LEARNED A LOT': Leeds United youngster Robbie Gotts, centre, celebrates netting for former loan club Lincoln City in this month's 4-0 victory at home to Accrington in the Football League Trophy. Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images.

Having joined Salford last Friday, Gotts then quickly made his debut for his new club in Saturday's League Two clash at Newport County which ended in a goalless draw.

Gotts started the game and played 79 minutes before coming off for Brandon Thomas-Asante.

Salford sit fifth in League Two whereas Lincoln are top of League One and Appleton says Gotts will naturally be granted more game time with Salford.

"You don’t want to stop a player having the opportunity to go and further their career and education,” Appleton told Lincolnshire Live.

“What I mean by that is he was clearly desperate for some game time.

"We understand that and we’ve got a good relationship with Leeds.

"He’s going to have the opportunity to get more game time with Salford.

'No fault of his own' - Lincoln City boss reflects on departure of Leeds United loanee Robbie Gotts to Salford City