Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has had Jack Rodwell on his radar since he arrived at the club, according to David Platt.
City see potential in Everton midfielder
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has had Jack Rodwell on his radar since he arrived at the club, according to David Platt.
Whilst City were picking up the first silverware of the new season, as they beat Chelsea 3-2 in the Community Shield - Rodwell was undergoing a medical after the Premier League champions agreed a deal with Everton.
Speaking at Villa Park after their win, first-team coach Platt revealed that he and Mancini had first discussed Rodwell over two years ago.
Asked how long they had been tracking Rodwell for he, told
Sky Sports News HD: "Two and a half years, when Robbie [Roberto Mancini] first came, he has had him on his radar and always liked him.
Impressed
Platt admits that they have perhaps over analysed Rodwell, but has no fears he will be a big success at the Etihad Stadium.
"When you look at a player for too long - you think that could be negative or a flaw, but it doesn't take away the characteristics the boy has," he continued.
"He has great technical ability off both feet, can pass it, play in a variety of positions, and has good physique and size.
"I think there is a great deal of potential there and so does Robbie, and we looked at it and thought it is the right thing to do, the opportunity came along for us to do it this summer, at the right money business wise, and we feel that we can provide him with the platform to realise that potential which has been there for a long time.
"We have seen him a few times, we have been to have a look and the opportunity is there, we don't think he has realised his potential and we think we can give him that stage."
Rodwell has been beset with injuries throughout his fledgling career so far, limiting him to less than 100 games - despite making his debut in 2008 - but Platt has no fears about his fitness.
"We don't think there will be any problems - the hard work has been done," he said.
