Lincoln City manager Michael Appleton has confirmed that Ellis Chapman is set to start for the club in their clash with Gillingham on Saturday at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium.

The 18-year-old produced an impressive display on Tuesday in his side's 3-0 victory over Rotherham United in the EFL Trophy.

Whilst Lincoln were eliminated from the competition at the group stage, they will be hoping that the confidence gained from this particular performance will inspire them to achieve a positive result against Gillingham.

With Joe Morrell set to miss the Imps' clash with the Gills due to the fact that he is currently on international duty, Chapman will occupy one of the club's midfield positions this weekend.

Having already made five league appearances for Lincoln during the 2019/20 campaign, the teenager has familiarised himself with this division and thus won't be daunted by the challenge that lies ahead of him on Saturday.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference (as cited by the LincolnshireLive) about Chapman, Appleton said: "He's been great.

"I think a lot of people forget he's 18 - I suppose I did when I first came here.

"He's going to have a bright future.

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"At some point he will get a run in the team, hopefully it's now.

"He played a good part of the game at Ipswich coming off the bench and played a full game the other night.

"He will play Saturday.

"If that's breaking news or not, he will play."

Currently 17th in the League One standings, Lincoln could put some daylight between them and the relegation zone on Saturday by beating Gillingham.

The Verdict

Whilst Lincoln will undoubtedly miss the presence of Morell this weekend, there is no reason why Chapman cannot fill the void left by the Wales international.

Unquestionably talented, the midfielder could help his side seal all three points this weekend if he gets off to a fast start against Gillingham.

Providing that Lincoln do secure victory, they could use the momentum gained from this result to push on in League One under the guidance of Appleton.