Former Sunderland player Jack Rodwell is still searching for a new club, after AEK Athens pulled out of a deal.

Reports surfaced yesterday suggesting that Rodwell could find himself playing Champions League football next season after interest from Athens. Greek news outlet Sportdog have refuted that, claiming today that Athens have moved on to other targets.

Rodwell saw his Sunderland contract cancelled a fortnight ago after being frozen out at the Stadium of Light. The 27-year-old midfielder only made two league appearances last season as the Black Cats were relegated from the Championship.

The former Everton man reportedly earned £70,000-a-week at the Stadium of Light, despite not making a senior appearance since September 2017.

In total, Rodwell featured just 76 times during his four-year spell at Sunderland. He cost them £10m from Manchester City and was recently described by Wearside legend Marco Gabbiadini as their worst ever purchase.

Rodwell has three England caps to his name, all earned whilst at Everton. He made his debut in November 2011, against Spain, featuring in further games against Sweden and Brazil. He had been in talks with Bolton Wanderers immediately after his Sunderland release.

The Verdict

His reputation will go before him, making it difficult to find a club, but if someone does take a punt on Rodwell they might be surprised. His spell in the north east turned into hell, but he hasn't become a bad player overnight.

The best thing he could do would be cut his losses and join a Championship team like Bolton where he can rebuild his shattered reputation.

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