Lincoln City boss Michael Appleton has spoken in glowing terms about Max Melbourne in his press conference this morning, watched by The Real EFL.
Melbourne has been part of the Under 23 setup at the Hawthorns and is on a six-month loan spell with the Imps. He’s been used sparingly by both Appleton and former manager Danny Cowley, but he made a brief cameo this weekend as the Imps beat Burton Albion 2-0.
In this morning’s press conference, the former Baggies hero spoke glowingly of Melbourne, and where he sees the player’s long term future.
“He is more than capable of doing a job at left-sided centre-half if anything was to happen to Bozzy or Cian,” said the former Manchester United midfielder.
“I think he sees himself as a centre-half. I don’t, he’s a full-back for me all day long. But he’s a full-back who is more than capable of filling in at centre-half, as and when needed.”
Appleton, a respected coach who left Albion Under 23s in September to take over at Sincil Bank, explained why he feels the 21-year-old is more suited to the full-back role.
“He’s certainly got the athleticism to get him out of trouble every now and then. He could be one of those who starts as a left-back. Then, the older and more experienced he becomes, he may slot in there [centre-back]. But at this moment in time, I see more as a really good option if anything happens to Toffs.”
Melbourne has made four appearances for the Imps, three in the EFL Trophy where he played at centre back, and the cameo in their much-needed win against the Brewers.
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Melbourne has demonstrated a lot of positive attributes during his time at Sincil Bank, not least his energy and pace when playing in the middle of a back four.
He’s been unlucky in that Lincoln’s strongest area is the back, with Cian Bolger, Michael Bostwick and Jason Shackell all strong central defenders. Left back Harry Toffolo is arguably the most consistent player for the Imps, closing down Melbourne’s options.
With his West Brom background and Appleton’s knowledge of the player, there might yet be an extension to the loan, if he’s deemed to be getting the right training and experience.
