Back On Track

Patrick Roberts has returned to the fray and he aims to make the most of the remainder of the season

CELTIC supporters have been denied the enthralling exploits of Patrick Roberts’ skills for much of this season due to injury but, having recently marked his return to action, the talented young winger is now determined to ensure what could possibly be his last days in Paradise are nothing short of remarkable.

Last season Roberts endeared himself to Celtic fans with memorable performances laden with highlight-reel-worthy clips of his captivating footwork, goals and assists.

He was a key player in Brendan Rodgers’ team and became one of the treble-winning Invicibles.

His 18-month loan agreement with parent club Manchester City concluded on the day that Tom Rogic brought down the curtain on one of Celtic’s most remarkable seasons with the winning goal against Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final.

Despite his success at Paradise, Roberts admitted he felt he still had more to offer and made clear his desire to remain as a Celt. He returned in the summer on a season-long loan and soon picked up from where he left off when he assisted for both of Celtic’s goals in the 2-0 win over Rangers at Ibrox. Four days later he scored in Celtic’s 3-0 win over Anderlecht in the UEFA Champions League.

All signs pointed to another promising season from Roberts, but the 21-year-old’s journey was derailed at Fir Park in November when he was forced off with an injury just 11 minutes into the league game against Motherwell.

It would be some time before Celtic fans would see him in action again, but he recently marked his return to action on the same pitch he limped off from four months previously, when he came on as a second-half substitute in the goal-less draw with Motherwell.