Roberts hails skipper Neil's growth as leader

Patrick Roberts hugs Dan NeilWinger 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…