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Former Sunderland winger forced off at half-time in Birmingham’s 4–0 win – boss gives injury update
Former Sunderland winger Patrick Roberts was forced off with an injury during Birmingham City’s 4–0 win over Portsmouth, but Blues boss Chris Davies has eased fears over the severity of the issue.
Roberts, 28, has been a central figure in Birmingham’s bright start to the Championship season following his summer loan move from Premier League side Sunderland. The winger was substituted at half-time and replaced by Keshi Anderson after feeling discomfort during the first period, sparking initial concern among fans.
Davies, however, moved quickly to play down any suggestion of a serious setback. Speaking after the game, the Birmingham head coach said the decision to withdraw Roberts was primarily precautionary. “He just had a knock. I don't think it was anything serious; it was more precautionary,” Davies explained. “I spoke to him at halftime and then I spoke to him at the end, and I don't think it's anything, but we'll see tomorrow.”
When asked if Roberts would be fit to face Millwall on Tuesday night, Davies added on Roberts’ injury: “No, not that I've had the conversation, but I actually don't know. I think tomorrow's probably going to be more decisive with that.”
The 28-year-old, who has made nine league appearances since joining the Blues in September, has already registered one goal this season and has been one of the side’s main creative outlets. His sharp footwork, balance and ability to unlock defences have helped Birmingham climb the table after an impressive start to life under Davies.
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Roberts’ injury comes just weeks after he missed the Preston fixture due to a separate knock and was substituted early in the defeat to Bristol City. His fitness will now be closely monitored ahead of a congested run of fixtures in November.
The winger joined Birmingham on a season-long loan from Sunderland on 1 September 2025, seeking regular first-team football after finding opportunities limited at the Stadium of Light following the club’s promotion to the Premier League.
Roberts joined Sunderland in January 2022 on an initial short-term deal and quickly became a fan favourite. He played a pivotal role in the club’s promotion from League One that season, scoring the decisive goal in the play-off semi-final second leg against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. That strike sent Sunderland to Wembley, where they sealed promotion under Alex Neil.
He went on to make 147 appearances for the Black Cats in all competitions. Roberts also featured prominently in Sunderland’s 2025 Championship play-off campaign under Régis Le Bris, which saw the club return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence. At Birmingham, Roberts has quickly re-established himself as an influential figure at Championship level, providing experience and attacking quality to a young squad.
Elsewhere, Davies confirmed that Willum Willumsson will be unavailable for selection next week, though defender Jack Robinson will return from suspension. Birmingham are next in action against Millwall on Tuesday as they look to build on their strong start to the 2025–26 campaign.
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