Patrick Roberts of Birmingham City

Former Sunderland striker Don Goodman reckons Birmingham City should explore signing Sunderland’s Patrick Roberts on a permanent basis.

The winger has been in excellent form since joining The Blues on loan from the Black Cats and scored his first goal of the season at Wrexham in a 1-1 draw last Friday.

The 28-year-old has an assist to his name too from five appearances, which include three starts, since moving back to the Championship.

The Sunderland player was an important part of the Black Cats’ promotion success last year before his switch to the Midlands. He scored two goals and registered seven assists from 45 regular league appearances, and shone in their play-off final victory over Sheffield United.

Roberts has established himself as a force at Championship level in recent years, having first really made his name on loan at Celtic from Manchester City - where Birmingham boss Chris Davies was on the coaching staff at the time.

Davies will be hoping he can have a similar impact over the full campaign, particularly with his side struggling for form in these...