Sunderland's under-achieving high earners will be set for a wage cut this summer, including transfer flop Jack Rodwell.

Rodwell hasn't kicked a ball in anger for the Black Cats first team since 20th September when he appeared against Everton in the EFL Cup.

The 27-year old, earning £70,000 a week, has simply been a spectator as they've plummeted towards the third-tier.

However, the Sunderland Echo are reporting that Rodwell will lose 40% of his wages this summer, not matter which division they're in next season. Even if they pull off a great escape, their own anonymous big-money buy will see a reduction in his earnings. £70,000 per week will become £42,000 per week.

Rodwell moved to Wearside for a fee of around £10m in 2014, signing the bulging five-year deal to end a dismal spell with Manchester City. However, his Sunderland dream quickly turned into a nightmare for all concerned as he's made just 76 appearances to date.

In January he was offered a route out of the Stadium of Light, although Chris Coleman confirmed he had rejected the move.

He won't be the only one losing out next season if the club are relegated, with a raft of players set to have their wages reduced. Some will not suffer according to the report, Lamine Kone and Lee Cattermole took 40% reductions last season and would not see the same happen again.

The Verdict

£42,000 a week is still around £41,000 more than most Sunderland fans think Rodwell should be earning.

He's squeezed a living out of the club whilst it is at its lowest ebb and has seemingly chose to sit receiving his wages instead of going elsewhere in search of football.

It's a sad demise of a once impressive young talent, remember Rodwell won England caps and had a big career ahead of him. Quite where he goes from here is anyone's guess, although his upcoming wage cut should make it a little easier to move him on.