Alex Neil says Sunderland's 'little magician' Patrick Roberts is coming into his own and can be a key man in Sunderland's run-in. January signing Roberts arrived short of gametime and has had to gradually build his match fitness.
But the former Manchester City man completed his first full 90 minutes for the Black Cats in yesterday's goalless draw at Lincoln City, turning in a man of the match performance in the process. He was the architect of many of Sunderland's best chances, albeit Neil was left frustrated at his side's inability to convert their dominance into goals.
Roberts' display playing off Ross Stewart up front was still a major positive, however, and the signs are that the 25-year-old could play an important part as Sunderland look to secure a place in the play-offs and a shot at promotion. Neil grinned: "He's a little magician, isn't he?
