Despite his young age, Tyler Roberts has had an eventful career so far. After a difficult period, the 19-year-old Welsh forward is bouncing back with his club as well as with his national team. Eager to justify his reputation.
Making his Premier League debut at only 17 front of his fans. Moreover, against a prestigious opponent. This the baptism of fire faced by Tyler Roberts on 15th May 2016. After 73 minutes, the Gloucester-born came off the bench and made his first appearance with his childhood club West Bromwich Albion against Liverpool (1-1).
His career looked to be on the right track especially as Roberts was on the plans of the then WBA coach Tony Pulis. “I think he could be a top player”, said the Baggies coach at that moment. However, in football, unexpected things can happen. Pulis was sacked few months later while Roberts has spent two frustrating loan spells in League One (Oxford and Shrewsbury) during the season 2016-2017.
His displays at the Maurice Revello Tournament 2017 didn’t helped him to change his situation at WBA. Once again, he was loaned out to a League One side, Walsall, during the first part of the 2017-2018 season. Roberts made the most of this loan spell as netted 5 goals and attracted the interest from a Championship side. On January, Leeds decided to sign him on a 4M£-deal.
However, his development suffered a setback as he sustained a shin injury that sidelined him for several months. Roberts suffered in silence during a long time and he is now enjoying a resurgence.
Highly rated by the Wales head coach Ryan Giggs, the 19-year-old forward has been handed his international debut on 6th September during the Nations League game against Ireland (4-1). Then, he made his Championship debut against Milwall (1-1) on 15th September. Three days later, he bagged his first goals for Leeds against Preston (3-0) and helped his side to stay atop of the league.
“It’s an interesting performance. He’s a very young player and I’m very happy for him. He deserves it”, said the Leeds coach Marcelo Bielsa following.
Under the care of the Argentinian coach, renowned for his ability to improve young players, Roberts can fulfill his potential. With a clear aim : coming back where everything started, in Premier League.
Amayes Brahmi
Credits photo : Leeds United