Patrick Roberts reveals motivation for rejoining Middlesbrough, Neil Warnock's influence and this season's ambitions

The 23-year-old has re-signed for Boro on loan for a second time after helping the Teessiders avoid relegation from the Championship last season.

Speaking to the club’s website, the Manchester City loanee said: “I worked with the manager and the group of players at the back end of the season, so I know the club, the players and the fans.

“It feels normal for me. I’m coming back to a place where I know I can just get my head down and enjoy my football.

“I was injured for a long time last season, which was difficult.

“Coming now there’s more games, more game-time which is a big positive - with 40-odd to go hopefully I can stay fit and contribute.”

Warnock spoke to Roberts before Boro’s 2-1 win over Barnsley a week ago and wanted to sign another attacking player before the end of the transfer window.

And Roberts believes he can be that creative spark the Boro boss has been looking for to challenge at the top end of the Championship.

“I spoke to the manager and he was reiterating that,” Roberts added. “I’ve always been about changing games, and this hopefully I can repay his faith in doing that.

“I know what I can do for the team and my qualities on the pitch, he knows what I can do so it’s just about bringing them to the pitch and moving Boro up the table.

“Bringing in me and others, he obviously has a clear idea of how he wants to play, and we can help him along the way. Everyone knows his calibre, especially the players he has here.

“He’ll want the best out of us and best for Middlesbrough - it’s up to us to put the work in to do that.

“When the fans can come back, hopefully we’ll be in a good momentum and they can keep us pushing for more.”

Roberts is expected to go straight into the squad for Boro’s Championship meeting with Reading at the Riverside on Saturday.

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