He began his career at his father's old club, signing a professional contract in November 1963.
However, despite a good goalscoring record, he only played a handful of games for the Sky Blues, and moved to Mansfield Town in March 1968, making his debut against Brighton & Hove Albion.
[3] The following year, he had a goal disallowed when Mansfield lost 2–0 against Leeds United, also in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
[4] He also had a goal disallowed in the goalless draw against Liverpool the same year in the League Cup, denying Mansfield a famous victory.
Roberts left Mansfield in the February 1974, having scored 73 goals in 230 games for the club.