Roberts is ‘a joy to watch’ and can dazzle at Sunderland after source update today – Phillips
Kevin Phillips has claimed Patrick Roberts “is a joy to watch” after Sunderland agreed a deal for the Manchester City winger.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend compared the 24-year-old to current Black Cats Aiden McGeady and Alex Pritchard.
This site revealed on 31st December that Sunderland are putting the final touches to a deal for Roberts.
A source told Football Insider that the left-footer has told his current loan club Troyes he is cancelling his temporary spell there to move to Wearside.
The latest from the source today is the deal is expected to progress.
Roberts was in attendance last Thursday to watch Sunderland thrash Sheffield Wednesday at the Stadium of Light.
His contract with Man City expires at the end of June this year.
When asked by Football Insider if Roberts would be a welcome addition, Phillips said: “Roberts is a joy to watch on his day.
“He’s a quality player. He is a creative player who can provide and get on the scoresheet.
“At that level [League One], I think he’d be a hit. It would be a bit similar to [Aiden] McGeady and [Alex] Pritchard.
“Sometimes it takes a bit of time to settle at that level. Even if you have played in the Premier League, League one is tough. It can take time to adapt to it. Cream always rises to the top though and if you have quality you will eventually start showing it.
“That is what is happening with Pritchard. A player like Roberts can do exactly the same. I’m sure his quality would shine through.
“I think he’d be a really good addition to the squad, especially at this stage of the season.”
In other news, Phillips has issued a ‘big’ Dan Neil claim after confirmed Sunderland transfer news.