Middlesbrough have announced the signing of Manchester City winger Patrick Roberts on loan until the end of the season.

Roberts had started the campaign by joining Premier League side Norwich City on a season-long loan, but that deal has now been terminated in order to allow the 22-year-old to make the move to the Riverside Stadium, having made just four appearances in all competitions for the Canaries since August.

The winger originally joined Manchester City from Middlesbrough's Championship rivals Fulham in the summer of 2015, and has so far made just three appearances for the Premier League champions, having also spent time out on loan with Scottish giants Celtic and Spanish outfit Girona.

Speaking to the club's official website following confirmation of Roberts' arrival, Middlesbrough manager Jonathan Woodgate said: “It’s great Patrick has signed up for the club.

“He’s an exciting player, he wants to play games, and he has the bit between his teeth. He fits the mould of what we’re looking at. He’s young and hungry, and wants to do well.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have a player of Patrick’s calibre at this football club.”

Following a poor start to season, a run of four straight wins has seen 'Boro climb to 16th in the Championship standings, just seven points adrift of the play-off places, with Roberts becoming their first signing of the January transfer window.

Middlesbrough are next in action on Sunday afternoon, when they host Woodgate's former club Tottenham in the third round of the FA Cup.

The Verdict

This could prove to be a smart signing from Middlesbrough.

When you look at some of the clubs Roberts has played for, it is clear that he has plenty of potential, and it would certainly help 'Boro's cause this season if they are able to exploit that.

Having struggled for opportunities recently, you feel that Roberts too will be relishing this move, giving it should allow him to enjoy more regular game time in the second half of the season.