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Sunderland boss David Moyes admits Jack Rodwell still isn’t fully fit

Sunderland manager David Moyes (REUTERS)
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Sunderland’s Jack Rodwell has impressed during his last appearances.

David Moyes has admitted to the Shields Gazette that Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell is still not fit enough to last 90 minutes at the top of his game.

Rodwell has started in Sunderland’s last two matches – against Liverpool and Burnley – and caught the eye.

The former Manchester City midfielder has shown flashes of excellence over the past two games.

And Moyes has suggested that Rodwell could have an important part to play for Sunderland over the rest of the season.

Sunderland's Jack Rodwell

“I thought Jack played as well as anybody [against Burnley],” Moyes said. “He was still running out of a bit of steam with 20 minutes to go, but hopefully we’ll be able to build his fitness levels back up over the coming weeks.

“I think Jack’s definitely getting it back.

“He had two or three attempts at goal and passed the ball relatively well.

“There were some good moments and we need him. We’re needing someone to take a bit of responsibility in the middle of the pitch for us and Jack’s just beginning to do a bit of that.”

Stoke City's Joe Allen in action with Sunderland's Jack Rodwell

Rodwell is not the most popular player at the Stadium of Light, as he has struggled since signing.

The powerful central midfielder has struggled for fitness throughout his time at Sunderland, and he has failed to show his top form.

If Moyes can coax the best out of Rodwell it will be a major boost as the Black Cats look to avoid relegation.

Sunderland are currently in 18th place in the Premier league table – one point away from safety.