MORGAN Roberts believes experiences learned in Non-League football have helped him fulfil his dream of returning to the Football League.
The 21-year-old was rewarded for his standout performances for Banbury United by completing a move to League Two Swindon Town this week.
And the winger, who was let go by Northampton Town earlier in his career, is grateful for the role that his time with the Puritans had in propelling him back into the full-time game.
“I’m really happy. It’s all been very quick on deadline day but it’s great to be here,” said Roberts, who scored 25 goals in 63 appearances for Banbury, helping them to the Southern Premier Central title last season.
“I’ve come through the academy at Northampton Town and played a few games for them, but have lots of Non-League experience and it’s taught me a lot. It’s given me the belief that I can come back to full-time football and it’s an exciting new chapter for me.”
Roberts joined Northampton’s youth academy in 2009 and was promoted to their firstteam nine years later, making his pro debut in May 2018 in a draw against Oldham Athletic.
He penned a new deal at Sixfields before heading out on loan to the likes of Rushden & Diamonds, Banbury United and Brackley Town, before re-joining Banbury in July 2021 on a permanent deal.
Last season, he netted ten goals in 27 games as the Puritans won the title by 23 points, attracting the attention of the Robins, who have been monitoring his progress closely in National League North this season.
Town’s Technical Director Sandro Di Michele, said: “Morgan has proved himself in the Non-League environment and is definitely one for the future.”