Rob’s role in Dale move for Roverts

HAYDON Roberts is hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow Brighton star Robert Sanchez in enjoying a successful loan period at Rochdale.

The 18-year-old’s arrival at the Crown Oil Arena signals the second Seagulls player in as many season to join the club following Sanchez’s loan spell at Dale during the 2019/20 campaign, and defender Roberts spoke to the goalkeeper prior to his move.

“I spoke to Rob on the morning of the deal being done. He recommended it highly – he said the manager was great and that the players were all nice to him and welcoming,” he said. “It was easy for me to come here and I’m happy to be here. Rob played a big part in me coming here.”

Roberts joined up with the squad on Monday morning – before starting Tuesday’s clash at Burton – for his first training session and he was impressed with his new team-mates.

“We’ve got some very good players in the squad,” he said. “The position in the league doesn’t replicate the quality in the team – there are a lot of good players. I was impressed by the quality of training - it was a very good standard.”

Having joined Brighton and Hove Albion as a 15-year-old, Roberts progressed up their the Academy ranks at the Amex Stadium and has recently broken into the first team, playing in the Carabao Cup this season.

He hopes that experience will stand him good stead.

“I’ve gained a lot of experience from being in around the first team. I’ve played a couple of games this season and I think playing games is the only way you can get better, no matter what level playing at, whether it’s the cup, Premier League or League One.

“If you’re playing, that’s how you’re going to improve and I think coming here is only going to benefit me.

“Training with the first team has taken me so far, but adding a competitive edge is the next step for me and my experiences can definitely help.

“I’ve against some top players and I’ve trained every day with some top players and I think that can only help me for my period here.”