The lack of minutes at Middlesbrough might see the former Celtic attacker Patrick Roberts (also a current target as reported by the Record Sport a month ago) return to Parkhead for the remainder of the campaign. A recent interview of Neil Warnock has refuelled the speculations and uplifted the spirit within the Hoops’ faithful amid such crisis period.
“I’ve had loads of talks with Patrick so we will have to see what develops. He’s our player until the end of the season, there’s no call back unless all parties agree to it so it’s one of those things. We’ll see what happens in the next couple of weeks.”
The Boro boss told the Hartlepool Mail that he is aware of the winger’s situation at Riverside who, still on loan from Manchester City, has only featured 8 times this season (stats via Transfermarket) despite earning a key status towards the closure of the previous term. Middlesbrough opted to get him on loan once more but have failed to offer him a starting role in the attacking third.
The former Fulham prodigy has only been handed 3 league starts so far, which is not enough for a 23-year-old’s development. He was making the headlines a few years ago for his exquisite impact in Celtic colours under Brendan Rodgers’ tutelage. However, failed stints with Girona, Norwich City and now Boro has made him a forgotten name in British football.
Roberts won’t make it at Man City (let’s be honest) who are well-equipped upfront, and the clock is ticking for the youngster who must step up and seek an exit to resurrect his once-promising career.
Why Celtic Should Bring Back Roberts
The Bhoys are in an utter catastrophe following their controversial Dubai trip. Also, a few of their senior stars have not been able to leave an impact week in, week out. Tom Rogic is certainly not the player he used to be whereas the likes of Mohamed Elyounoussi and Odsonne Edouard are struggling to gain the momentum high up the pitch.
Young Michael Johnston needs time to regain his lost mojo due to persistent injury problems and the absence of James Forrest (following an ankle injury) in recent months has shattered their ‘ten in a row’ mission unless some miracle takes place late into the campaign.
Former Celtic attacker Roberts did exceptionally well to settle in and deliver in the Scottish surroundings during his two-and-a-half years spell. His versatility across the frontline would inject more firepower and flexibility that the Hoops are seriously lacking every passing gameweek.
