Patrick Roberts is one of the most naturally talented footballers I have ever seen. His style is so unique it’s actually only similar to one other player I know and that’s Lionel Messi. Now I know that’s one hell of a comparison, however, they both have a low centre of gravity, go past others with ease and have a wand of a left foot. Not that he’s in the same league as the Argentinian but there are similarities.
Patrick has been given the platform to flourish this season and has clearly developed under Brendan. Now I know he is a Manchester City player and I know his loan deal expires this summer. If he is going to play first team at Man City then great and I wish him all the luck in the world. However, I don’t think he’s quite there yet, I don’t think he’s at the level of Silva, Sane, Aguero or Sterling. If he’s going back down south to toil on the bench then he should really think twice about doing so.
Celtic have publicly stated they would love him back at the club and I think this is the best move for his development and career.
I would urge Patrick to look at the long list of young stars who have left Celtic as heroes, chasing big money and see at where they are now.
English Premier League
Joe Ledley – Crystal Palace 13th
Victor Wanyama – Spurs 2nd
Fraser Forster – Southampton 8th
Jason Denayer – Sunderland 20th (Relegated)
Virgil Van Dijk – Southampton 8th
Ki Seung Yeung – Swansea 17th
English Championship
Gary Hooper – Sheffield Wed 4th
Stefan Johansen – Fulham 6th
Kelvin Wilson – Rotherham 24th (Relegated)
Adam Matthews – Bristol City 17th
Apart from Wanyama, it’s hardly impressive reading is it? Now, I have no doubt that these ex Celts are set for life, money will never be an issue! but I would say the pinnacle of their footballing careers happened at Paradise. With the exception of Wanyama and Van Dijk, who will probably play in the Champions League next season.
If you look at recent history the only ex Celt who has gone on to better things is the King of Kings himself. He was adored in Barcelona and played a vital role in Barcelona winning the Champions League against Arsenal in 2006 when he set up both goals.
Patrick should do his upmost return to Celtic for at least 3 more years, play under the best  manager on our shores, in front of the best fans in the world, play in the Champions League and add to his medal haul. After the 3 years he’ll still only be 22 years of age – plenty of time to beef up the bank account and he’d hardly be on a pittance at Celtic.
Maybe, he’ll look at Dembele, Sinclair and the manager committing to the club and see this is the place for him for a few years to come.
Comments appreciated.
I’m @chatceltic on twitter.
Enjoy the title party! Hail Hail.
Patrick is up there with Sane – without a shadow of a doubt – Sane is a bit more powerfull and direct but Patrick has more skill and curls a beautiful ball.
I agree with everything apart from putting a time limit on it. You don’t need long in the EPL to be set for life. £1m in the bank and I’d be set for life. ????
I agree completely with this boys fantastic ability and talent. I do think this boy has a good brain as well he will know this is the most important decision of his career so far leaving a club where your form is white hot and reputation is growing I’m confident Wee Paddy will make the right decision for himself
HH