Roberts hails skipper Neil's growth as leader

Winger Patrick Roberts says Sunderland skipper Dan Neil has grown into a real leader.

South Shields-born midfielder Neil is approaching 200 appearances for the club, despite only turning 23 last month.

He has played every minute of 24 Championship games this season, was sent off five minutes from time in another and only missed the next through suspension, back in August.

Roberts told BBC Radio Newcastle: "When I first came in you knew he was a top player (even though) he was very young.

"He's grown into a real leader, on and off the pitch. He's a real character, he's from here and his whole family come and watch him and you can see he's proud every time he pulls on that armband.

"I've always been a big fan of Dan and he's shown what he can do, he's a brilliant footballer and a good lad as well."

Whether Roberts and Neil line up together against Stoke in the FA Cup third round on Saturday (15:00 GMT) remains to be seen, with many clubs expected to rotate their squad after a hectic festive programme which ended with the Black Cats fourth in the Championship, three points off top spot.

He said: "You have to look at the season as a whole, especially the position we're in. Maybe other lads who haven't played so much get a chance to play and show what they can do.

"We have got a big few weeks and months coming up towards the end of the season and you need a full squad so if players get a chance, let them show what they can do."

You can listen to the full interview with Roberts on BBC Radio Newcastle's Total Sport from 18:00 GMT on Wednesday.