Premier League: Jack Rodwell settling in at Sunderland

Sunderland new boy Jack Rodwell admitted he is hoping to use the international break to settle in the north east.

The 23-year-old is looking to rebuild his reputation after a disastrous spell at Manchester City, where he made just 16 league appearances in two seasons.

Following a £10million summer move to Wearside, Rodwell was thrust straight into the Sunderland first team, and impressed in the club’s opening games.

However, a dip in form meant he was dropped to the bench for the Black Cats’ first win of the season over Stoke at the weekend, and with the international break giving players a chance to recuperate, Rodwell insists he will be working hard to win his place back.

“I’m definitely getting there and I should be properly ready by the time the next game comes around,“ Rodwell told the Sunderland Echo.

“The first few games, you’re just feeling your way in and getting your fitness – I still am.

“But I am feeling better each game, and, after the international break, hopefully I will be back to 100 per cent.”

I am feeling better each game, and, after the international break, hopefully I will be back to 100 per cent.

The former Everton midfielder did admit slight disappointment in missing the victory over Stoke, but insisted he is happy with the way things are going.

"I got to start three games in a week, with the matches against Burnley, Stoke and Swansea,” Rodwell added.

“That was tough. I felt a little bit tired in the last game, to be honest, probably due to the effects of the back-to-back games beforehand.

“But I’d felt good after my first full 90 minutes against Burnley, physically OK.

"I'm happy with the progress and I know I’m getting there.”