Midfield Role For Roberts?

Dario Gradi today revealed that academy graduate Gary Roberts will be given his chance to make an impact next season. The England youth international impressed last season despite only making two appearances at Sheffield United and West Ham, where he proved what an asset his versatility could prove to be.

Dario spoke of his high hopes for last years young player of the season, "I don't know if Gary will play 46 games next season, but we'll be working with him in a new role and hopefully he can make an impact." However, Gradi did not expand on the specific "role" he had in mind but went on to state, "He has played wide before but this will be a different role."

Roberts is held in very high regard amongst the club's management and along with Michael O'Connor, the club has "some very talented midfielders at the club" as confirmed by Dario Gradi.

Roberts, who signed his first professional contract last summer, is a versatile player with both attacking and defensive abilities with a fantastic array of passing and a tough tackle. This adaptability means that he could replace either Neil Sorvel or Kenny Lunt in next season's midfield. However, if Lunt stays the likelihood is that Roberts' chances to impress would be more limited due to Dario's complete faith in his much-maligned midfielder.