Whelan: This is the ‘only thing’ keeping Roberts at Leeds amid confirmed news
Tyler Roberts’ age is the “only thing keeping him” at Leeds United and he needs to show more consistency going forward.
That is according to ex-Whites attacker Noel Whelan, speaking exclusively to Football Insider after it was announced on 9th June that the 22-year-old had signed a new Leeds deal.
Roberts, who was set to enter the final 12 months of his contract, is now committed to the club until 2024.
That comes after Football Insider revealed on 15th May that the versatile player was attracting transfer interest from Newcastle United.
The 14-cap Wales international featured 27 times in the top-flight in 2020-21 but just 14 of those were starts.
Whelan claims that Roberts is a polarising figure among the Elland Road faithful but that his youth works in his favour.
“I think it might leave the fanbase a little bit divided,” he told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge.
“I think the only thing that’s really keeping him at Leeds is his age. He’s got more room to grow and learn from other players.
“Did he do enough when he was playing regularly and given that opportunity? There were glimpses but there was not enough consistency from a player that has really excited us.
“He’s a good member of the squad and seems to be a good lad around the players. Let’s see what he can bring to Wales in the Euros.”
Roberts signed for Leeds from West Brom in 2018 in a deal reported to be worth £2.5million.
He has gone on to make 82 appearances for the club in total.
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