Versatile Leeds ace ‘positive’ over new deal and admits preferred position

Tyler.Roberts, Stuart Dallas Leeds 2021.TEAMtalk2021

Tyler Roberts has admitted his love for all things Leeds and revealed his representatives are speaking to the club about extending his deal.

The 22-year-old moved to Elland Road from West Brom in January 2012, penning a four-and-a-half-year deal in West Yorkshire. The Gloucester-born forward has made 82 appearances in all competitions, netting eight goals along the way. He was used mainly off the bench in the first half of 2020-2021.

But the Wales international was given the nod 11 times since February as Marcelo Bielsa placed his trust in the youngster. It seemed as though he might be on his way this summer, with only one year left on his contract.

And a few pundits have urged the versatile star to leave the club in the off-season in order to secure more game time. But, far from looking for an escape route, Roberts has made it clear where his priorities lie.

“I think my agent has had a talk with them about what’s going to happen,” he told The Beautiful Game Podcast. “I think it’s one of those where the season is so close to ending, you stay focussed on the last few games and you sort that then.

“I think it’s all positive and, as I’ve said, I do love it at Leeds. The city, the fans, the experiences I’m getting are great so I’m happy.”

Roberts still learning his trade

The former Walsall loan man is known as a player who can feature in many attacking positions. He has never been prolific in front of goal and scored only once in the season just finished.

The Welshman has mostly played as an attacking midfielder under the Argentine’s tutelage, supporting Patrick Bamford. He is happy to do that for the good of the team but sees his long-term future as an out-and-out striker.

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Over my career, I would like to say I’m a number nine, a striker,” he continued. “I grew up playing in that position, it’s only in the last few years I’ve really learnt the number 10 position. I think it’s been good for me, the right thing for me.

Marcelo Bielsa, Leeds at Burnley

“The number nine is a big pressure, you have to be scoring goals. I’ve been young, I’m still learning the game so to be the one that doesn’t have to hold the ball up all the time.

“I’ve been able to learn, to be a number nine and a number 10. It’s been good but I definitely see myself as a number nine, for sure.”

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