Tyler Roberts wants to prove his doubters wrong after an injury-hit first season at Birmingham City. Blues signed Roberts from Leeds United last summer on a four-year contract, but the forward missed the first four months of the season through injury. Roberts struggled with injuries last term, too, and only featured in eight matches across 2023.

Since returning to fitness at the end of Wayne Rooney’s tenure as manager, Roberts has struggled to find form and favour during Blues’ chaotic season. He started Gary Rowett's first game at former club QPR before being benched for the next three.

Rowett restored Roberts to his XI against Coventry City and the Wales international repaid his manager by contributing to two goals in a 3-0 win for Blues. Speaking afterwards, Roberts told Blues TV: “I have a point to prove.

“I’m somebody that is always working hard, trying to get consistency, and that’s what I’ve struggled with over the past couple of years.

“It was a big day for me personally, coming in and proving to doubters and people who maybe don’t believe in me as much that I can play and I can give something to the team.”

Roberts’ previous start at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park came against Sunderland in February. Like the Coventry fixture, that was also a sell-out and Blues’ players felt the force of those on the terraces.

Roberts added: “I remember when I started against Sunderland and it was packed out, it was bouncing, I know they want to see us giving intensity and passion, and we all did that.”