In another coup for the A-League Men, Jack Rodwell has signed for the Western Sydney Wanderers on a one-year deal on the eve of the Sydney Derby.
Rodwell, who was once touted as the next great English midfielder was signed by Manchester City in 2012 where he made 16 Premier League appearances across two seasons, following spending some time in the Everton youth and senior set up.
He recently moved to Australia with his wife Alana, who is originally from Western Sydney and trialled with the side for two weeks.
He signed for Sunderland in 2014, where following their relegation into the lower tiers of England he struggled for game-time, later signing for Blackburn Rovers in 2018 and was most recently released by Sheffield United in June of this year.
Rodwell spoke on his excitement of finding a new club for the first time in a new country.
“This move is really exciting for me, I’ve been looking at the opportunity to play in Australia for a couple of months and with my wife being from Western Sydney, the Wanderers was the perfect destination,” said Rodwell.
“Australia is like a second home to me, it’s my favourite country on earth, it’s where my wife and her family are from; we love the place.
“I honestly can’t wait to play. With the opening match being the Sydney Derby, everyone in my family will be there watching so it is a huge opportunity and something I am really looking forward to.
“I’d like to thank the club for this opportunity, and hope I can repay the faith they have shown in me.”
Carl Robinson, the Western Sydney manager spoke on Rodwell’s desire to return to peak footballing ability and what it means for the club to sign a player of his calibre.
“We are delighted to have Jack part of our squad as he is a strong character with excellent leadership qualities,” said Robinson.
“He’s settled in excellently in such a short time, and fitted in well with the group sharing the same values and ideas we have here as a club.
“His experience speaks for itself and his signing his an opportunity for him to get back to enjoying his football in a positive and competitive environment.
The Wanderers take on Sydney FC on Saturday the 20th of November at 7:45pm AEST.
Image Source: Western Sydney Wanderers
