Patrick Roberts left Boro on deadline day after an underwhelming second spell at the club
Manchester City recalled Patrick Roberts on transfer deadline day, and then immediately sent him out loan to Derby County for the remainder of the season.
When Boro announced the signing of Patrick Roberts in October, big things were expected.
after a disappointing spell at Norwich City in the first half of the 2019/20 season, Roberts signed for Boro on loan for the remainder of the season.
After the EFL Championship's re-start in June, Roberts was key in Boro's championship survival, scoring a vital winner against Reading; a goal etched in Boro fans memories as the moment survival was confirmed.
Yet in the summer of the 2020/21 season, Boro boss Neil Warnock seemed hesitant in re-signing Roberts, claiming he had 'bigger priorities'; this raised a few eyebrows as, at the time, it was felt Roberts was exactly what Boro needed.
After a lack-lustre window, and a feeling of no other option, Boro re-signed Patrick Roberts on a season long loan from Man City. Neil Warnock said he felt he had signed a "more mature" Roberts:
"We all know what he can do and I feel with the current squad we have I can make him a better player."
Unfortunately for Roberts, the opportunity never came for him to make his mark for Boro, only making nine appearances for Boro, only three of which were starts.
One particular game which was a cause for concern was Boro's 0-0 draw away to Blackburn Rovers. After the game Neil Warnock admitted he regretted not involving Roberts, something which anyone watching the game felt would've been an obvious call.
Following this game, Roberts struggled for game time under Warnock; only starting twice before his exit.
In December, Roberts only made three appearances; and with the January transfer window coming up, rumours of his exit began to circulate. These matter were not helped by the fact Warnock has spoke repeatedly of his hope to bring in an exciting winger who can 'create chances' - qualities Roberts seemed to have.
Yet on December 24th, Warnock announced he would like to keep hold of Roberts - but he would not stand in his way should he want to leave.
Roberts would go on to make two starts and one appearance before his departure on deadline day; games in which he failed to make an impression, and his leave was subsequently sanctioned.
If he was to leave Boro, they would of course need someone to cover his place; and when the signings of Yannick Bolasie, Nathaniel Mendez-Liang and Neeskens Kebano were announced, it became viable for Roberts to move on - and when Derby County registered their interest, Roberts was quick to take up the offer and move on from Boro.
It certainly was a disappointing second spell at Boro for Roberts, but with new highly rated replacements, they will look to complete the task of finishing in the top six spots and complete the penultimate task of reaching the Premier League come the end of the season.
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