Why Patrick Roberts didn't return to Manchester City and stayed at Middlesbrough after injury setback

Roberts has been sidelined since January with a hamstring issue but elected to stay on Teesside to undergo his rehab.

“Our medical team have been absolutely fantastic with the plan they’ve had for Patrick,” said Woodgate ahead of Saturday’s trip to Charlton.

“Patrick has really bought into it. Sometimes when loan players get injured they go back to their club but Patrick wanted to stay here and integrate with the lads which is first class.

“I speak to the doctors regularly and his attitude to try and get fit has been second to none.

“It’s been tough for Patrick because he has had hamstring injuries before. This is one he said he’s never done the rehab as he’s done with our medical team.”

Despite the severity of the setback it was quickly decided that Roberts would stay at Boro to complete his recovery.

“That’s how settled he was here,” added Woodgate. “That’s how good he’s been with the lads and that shows the team ethic and spirit of the boy for him to want to stay here.

“If you stay here you will be treated well and as one of the top players, we try to treat everyone exactly the same but you get my gist.

“He’s a special player and we want him right for the rest of his career. I want him to be the best Patrick can be.”

Roberts has now missed Boro’s last seven games but is set to return to training on Monday.

He could then be available for next weekend’s meeting with Swansea at the Riverside

When asked what Roberts is like off the field, Woodgate added: He’s a great kid, really good lad who just wants to play football.

“He’s worked ever so hard, he’s been everywhere the doctor has asked him.

“He’s been doing little bits of rehab in sand dunes, everywhere, he’s been working really hard.

“I say to all of my players don’t rush it, try and stick to a plan and don’t come away from that plan.“