'It was very amicable' - Appleton on the conversation which sealed Shackell's fate
The Imps boss has confirmed the defender has no future at the club
Jason Shackell (Image: CameraSport - Chris Vaughan)
Michael Appleton has confirmed Jason Shackell has played his final game for Lincoln City.
Following talks between the pair, it has been agreed that the former Derby County and Burnley defender will leave the club.
His departure is set to be officially confirmed soon, with the player's agent and club officials in talks over terminating his contract, which expires in the summer, early.
"There isn't a future [for him at Lincoln]. There's discussions between the football club and his representatives [over his departure]," said Appleton in this morning's press conference.
"The discussion between myself and Shacks was very amicable, very honest and it's an outcome which suits all parties."
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Shackell, who was instrumental as the Imps stormed to the League Two title last season, has made some high-profile mistakes since the turn of the year and was not in the squad for the last game against Gillingham.
"He's had a mixed season," added Appleton. "There's been a lot of transition at the football club which has suited some players more than others.
"With his age [36], whether he's going to be playing beyond this season, I'm not too sure.
"Following the discussions I had with him when he first came in, I think that's highly unlikely.
"It was just a dead honest conversation between two people who spoke their minds and we've come to the right conclusion."
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On the difficulty of the conversations with a player who is not in his plans, Appleton added: "They're difficult conversations but, as I've said before, if you're straight with people, tell people how it is and are honest...
"They can get frustrated with you, disappointed, even angry, but when you sit down in the cold light of day, you get respect.
"Whether Shacks is annoyed, angry or just accepting of the conversation we had, one thing I can guarantee is that it was an honest one.
"Sometimes the most honest conversations can be the most difficult ones, but I'm quite comfortable having a difficult conversation."