Lincoln City winger Theo Archibald has departed the club in search of first team football, joining League Two side Leyton Orient on a season-long loan.

Archibald, who made just seven appearances all last season, is a product of the Celtic academy, whom he once had a three-year professional contract with.

After a short loan spell with Albion Rovers, Archibald opted to head south of the Scottish border, joining the upcoming Brentford 'B' team and netting 14 goals in his first season with the club. However, during a difficult spell at the Bees and failing to make an impact in the first team, Archibald joined Forest Green Rovers on loan, but returned to London to see his contract come to an end.

The next location for Archibald was that of the now deceased Macclesfield Town, where he joined on a permanent contract and made 28 appearances for the Silkmen, but his contract was eventually cancelled due to Macclesfield's ongoing struggles off of the pitch.

Lincoln were quick to snap up Archibald, but after a difficult first season at Sincil Bank, he will now play his football back in London, joining Leyton Orient.

Speaking to the official Leyton Orient website, Archibald talked about his move, saying: "I’m very pleased to get it done. It’s been quite a quick turnaround. The season starts next week, and I’m just delighted to be here.

“There’s a top manager in place here and as you can see, that can really attract players. Once I spoke to Martin Ling and other people here, I realised how well ran the Club is.”

The verdict

A sensible move for all involved, with first team opportunities suppressed last season for Archibald, he'll be determined to make an impact at Leyton Orient, under a manager who is well-known for getting the best out of youngsters. A direct, hungry winger who will link up nicely with the attackers, this has the potential to be a clever transfer deal for a player who was previously out-of-favour.