Tyler Roberts a rare shining light for Leeds in opening day defeat

Add as preferred source on Google

Few Leeds United players arguably have a bigger point to prove this season than Tyler Roberts.

Roberts has been an intriguing case for Whites supporters. On his day, he has looked like a potential superstar.

And he has done it in the top flight. He was arguably the best player on the park when Leeds hosted Chelsea last season.

But the Wales international has not produced those displays anywhere near often enough.

Nevertheless, Leeds rewarded the 22-year-old with a new deal earlier in the summer.

Unfortunately, Marcelo Bielsa’s men must now bounce back from a horrendous opening day defeat at Old Trafford.

Unsurprisingly, Roberts did not make the starting lineup on Saturday. Patrick Bamford led the line with Rodrigo deployed as a second striker.

It was a frustrating afternoon for both forwards. They had the fewest touches of any of the players to start the game.

Rodrigo came off at the break, while Bamford was replaced by Roberts with 13 minutes remaining and the damage already done.

Interesting however, Roberts went on to produce a very encouraging cameo.

He made some clever runs off the ball. And he should have had an assist after a delicious pass into Raphinha. However, the Brazilian put his attempt wide.

There were also claims for a penalty. Roberts was clipped by Harry Maguire in an incident that would have almost certainly led to a spot-kick last season.

However, the referee decided that there was not enough contact.

Tyler Roberts made most of tough opportunity in Leeds loss

Admittedly, Bielsa will probably not get carried away with how Roberts got on. Manchester United were able to take their foot off the gas somewhat by that stage.

But he did cause problems. And he looked determined to make an impact.

That may bode well for this season. If it is a sign of what is to come, perhaps Roberts may well prove exactly why the club decided to hand him a new contract this year.