Roberts was summoned from the bench by head coach Craig Bellamy in the 60th minute of Wales’ defeat by Romania.
The 64-cap international’s fellow substitute David Brooks levelled proceedings just three minutes after entering the pitch to cancel out Florinel Coman’s opener at Stadionul Steaua.
But Adrian Rus netted an 80th minute winner as the men in yellow clinched their first victory since football legend Gheorghe Hagi was appointed boss in April.
It means Wales are without a win in four matches in 2026 while their winless run in away friendlies was extended to 17 matches – a sequence stretching back to November 2008.
Despite the disappointing result, Roberts was delighted to be back on the pitch representing his national side once again.
“Personally for me, it’s brilliant to be back,” said the Burnley defender.
“Some people are happy that I’m back, some people not so happy, but I am back and hopefully I can keep ticking over during the summer and go again next season for club and country.”