Midfield ace Roberts on the verge of return to action for Mansfield Town after signing permanent contract
Midfield ace Tyler Roberts can't wait to make his return from injury after signing a permanent contract for Mansfield Town until the end of the season following his release from Birmingham City on deadline day.
The 27-year-old had impressed during his loan spell with the Stags after joining in September, scoring three goals in nine appearances before being sidelined with a calf injury from which he is about to return to action.
“It was quite clear from Birmingham's side that I wasn't part of their future plans,” he said.
“They wanted to get a deal done to part ways, so it was in both parties' best interests to do that.
“I’m happy where I am at Mansfield right now so to get this one completed made a lot of sense.
“Since I joined on loan I’ve really enjoyed my time here, though, unfortunately I have suffered an injury and been out for quite a while.”
He added: “The group is amazing and the fans have been great and I have been happy ever since I came in.
“From the first few games I realised that this squad have the potential to go on and probably exceed expectations.
“That is something I want to be involved in.
“We all try to better ourselves each day to get to those expectations.
“As a footballer that is what you want to be a part of – a team that is striving to do better.”
On his injury, which has sidelined him since early November, he said: “I was struggling with a bit of shin pain before the Northampton game, then my calf went out in that game. So I have had to deal with both problems at once.
“It has taken a lot of time and patience and a lot of hard work in the gym.
“The worst part as a footballer is sitting on the sidelines watching the games go by.
“But I’m now feeling good and strong and I joined in training last week. I’m hoping that my return is very soon.
“I hope to be available for selection next weekend.
“I will get a good week of training in and hopefully push on from then.
“I have been eager to play for the past few months. I saw our difficult start to December and then our strength and quality has taken us eight games unbeaten which has been amazing to watch.
“So I have been itching to be involved.
“I want to impact games, getting on the ball and trying to control games, trying to create chances for me and my team mates. I hope to get back to doing that and that it can help push us further towards the higher end of the table.”