Davide Somma’s hopes of forcing his way into Leeds United’s first team in the early weeks of next season have received a blow.

Former San Jose Earthquakes striker Somma, 25, was sent off in the final game of his loan spell at Lincoln City and has been handed a three-match ban to serve from the start of next season.

Somma has yet to play for United’s first team but an extension to his initial 12-month contract has tied him to the club until next summer.

He scored nine goals in 14 games at Sincil Bank where manager Chris Sutton is still hopeful of persuading United to let him sign permanently.

However, Leeds boss Simon Grayson has promised to give Somma a chance at Elland Road “if he comes back for pre-season training flying and scoring goals.”