Sunderland boss gives Patrick Roberts and Jack Clarke update ahead of Bolton Wanderers clash

Roberts signed an initial six-month contract on Wearside after leaving Manchester City last week, but had not played a competitive game since September and so Lee Johnson decided not to include him in the 1-0 win over Portsmouth.

After a full week of training Roberts is now expected to be named on the bench at the University of Bolton Stadium, and Johnson has been impressed by the quality the 24-year-old has already demonstrated.

"It's fair to say he's got a chance of being involved," Johnson said.

"We've definitely had to work smart with Patrick, it's an interesting load in terms of the season he's had so far. It's about allowing him to peak in the run-in, simple as that.

"I think he'll be available for us from the bench this week and I think he'll show us what he's got.

"He's got quicker feet than Michael Flatley, so it'll be interesting to see him bring that to our games."

Johnson's attacking options could be further boosted by the return of Alex Pritchard, while Jack Clarke could also be in contention to make his Sunderland debut.

Clarke signed on loan from Tottenham Hotspur earlier this week until the end of the season.