Scout Report – Tyler Roberts
West Bromwich Albion are short of hot young talent, though there are one or two in the ranks including a young player currently on loan with Walsall who is gaining Rangers’ interest at present. Striker Tyler Roberts is one of their youth players creating a great impression and was reportedly wanted by both Arsenal and Wolverhampton Wanderers back in the summer, though it’s the former Scottish champions showing the most desire right now.
The 18-year-old forward has managed 5 goals in 15 appearances since joining Walsall and is out of contract at West Brom next summer, with his loan move seeming to spell the end of his time at the Hawthorns. Albion though are apparently thinking of offering him a new deal but should Rangers go in with a decent offer, he could well be tempted to move to Ibrox.
Here’s what we know about him so far:
History
Although born in Gloucester, Roberts considers himself Welsh and is tipped to become a Wales international in the near future.
West Brom signed Roberts having seen him play for junior team Tredworth Tigers down in his hometown and signed him up for their academy. Having been listed as far back as 2016 as one of the 20 wonder kids to look out for by the BBC, you could even argue his development has slowed down slightly. However, he’s done the right thing by dropping to a lower level to learn his trade and will be a star at either Championship or Scottish Premiership level.
Style Of Play
Roberts prefers to play as a central striker and has proven his scoring ability, being involved in a goal every 132 minutes at Walsall so far this season. Given his pace and movement though, he can also play down either flank, so if involved in a 4-3-3, he would be comfortable anywhere across the front line.
He is quick, tricky and skilful, though if he can just hone his finishing skills he will be the No.9 that he wants to be up in the top level.
Roberts’ Future
The Championship or The Scottish Premiership looks to be a logical next step for him, which means Rangers would be a good stop off and may even mean European football for him next term.
A lot depends on the second half of this season – if Roberts gets his move and keeps developing then he may well get more game time with the Welsh national side, which appears to be a major motivator for him.