Why Patrick Roberts’ possible return could be a great deal for Celtic
Manchester City’s abundance of creative midfield talent could see the Premier League champions send Patrick Roberts out on loan again. The talented youngster spent the last two-and-half years on loan with Scottish Champions Celtic. Roberts, signed from Fulham in 2015/16, has failed to break into the City first-team, making just three competitive appearances so far.
The boyhood Liverpool fan has two years left on his current contract. He has played 45 minutes in Manchester City’s pre-season friendlies this summer. A solid fan-favourite at Parkhead, Roberts has won seven trophies during his lengthy spell with the Hoops.
According to Manchester Evening News, the 21-year-old has refused to rule out a return to Glasgow. He has also admitted that he is yet to speak to Pep Guardiola about his future.
Roberts said, “No [I’ve not spoken to Guardiola], I’m just here to train, work hard and get my fitness up, we’ll see what happens.”
“I know the window closes soon. If something happens before then, great. We’ll have to see what happens. I can’t really say anything. We’ll have to see what’s best for me. But right now, I don’t know. We’ll see.”
“Obviously I said at the end of the season that I spent a good two and a half years there and my time was brilliant, you never know in football.”
He also added that he could end up back at Celtic but was quick enough to mention that he is looking for the best option for his future.
Roberts, who is naturally a right-winger, can also play as a left-winger or as an attacking midfielder. He has scored 15 goals and provided 19 assists in 51 Premiership appearances so far. On an average, he has found the back of the net every 210 minutes.
With squad numbers limited, Brendan Rodgers could work wonders by re-signing Roberts. While confirming a loan deal for fellow City youngster Daniel Arzani, the manager did not rule out the move (h/t Daily Record).
“I think Patrick is one of those players you look at and then you see what happens over the next period of time. He has obviously been away with Man City and he is there but our eyes are open to lots of options,” said Rodgers.
Celtic saw off Livingston in the Premiership but they will need talent and depth to challenge on all fronts. The Hoops must defend the treble they won last year. Bitter rivals Rangers, under Steven Gerrard, will be looking to force Celtic off their dominant perch in Scottish football.
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The Bhoys are also chasing European glory as they face AEK Athens in the third qualifying round of the Champions League. A move back to Scotland for Roberts would benefit all the parties involved; in this case, Roberts, City and Celtic.
