After returning to the club on loan for the remainder of the season, the 28-year-old made his second home debut, playing the full match as Rovers drew 0-0 with Leeds United on Saturday.
"I thought he did very well and I thought he got stronger as the game went on," Appleton told Radio Rovers.
"Even though he had a lack of match practice I thought his experience showed at certain times.
"He's obviously got a lot of quality and I think when he does get that match sharpness and that match fitness, I think we'll see the best of him."