A complete fact file on Liverpool target Patrick Roberts.
This week Liverpool were linked with a move for Fulham’s teenage forward Patrick Roberts and many Reds fans have been asking themselves exactly what is the big deal with this kid?
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But never fear, we have compiled a handy guide to tell you everything you need to know about the starlet striker and you can judge for yourself whether he is worth the hype!
Name: Patrick Roberts
Current team: Fulham
Shirt number: 14
Position: Right midfield
Age: 17 (5th February 1997)
Height: 167cm
Weight: 58kg
Nationality: English
He has enjoyed a strong breakthrough into the first team so far this term, starting two games and coming off the bench in a further nine. He has yet to score, but has one assist already as well as having a pretty nifty 81% pass success rate.
Already a seasoned veteran on the youth international stage, he has made 25 appearances for an array of England’s young guns, including scoring four goals in four showings for the Under-19s throughout 2014.
His hard to predict footwork and ornate shooting ability have set him aside as one to watch for the future.
Having been born in Kingston-Upon-Thames, Roberts joined Fulham from AFC Wimbledon at the age of 13, before signing a professional contract when he just turned 17; a feeling he described as “one of the best feelings I have ever had in my life”.
Former manager Felix Magath handed him his first team debut at the end of last season in the clash with Manchester City with his first start coming at the beginning of the season against Wolves.
Fulham’s Under-18s were one of the most prolific teams in the Premier League youth reaches in recent years – and it is partly down to Roberts’ success.
His versatility will prove to be an enormous asset, too. Comfortable either on the flanks, in the hole or as a striker he will be adaptable to many systems that his managers may want to employ.
Manchester United were reportedly quoted a massive £15million if they wanted to secure the target in the summer. His price may continue to rise with his continued involvement in the Fulham first team, but if Rodgers wants him then he will surely take the gamble to splash the cash.
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