Sunderland want to get rid of Jack Rodwell, and the midfielder is keen to move on, too. He's now on trial away from the club.
The former Manchester City player is deemed surplus to requirements at Stadium of Light.
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He's held talks with the club about terminating his contract as he embarks on a fresh challenge.
Rodwell, who's been training on his own, still has 18 months left to run on his current contract.
But he's looking to secure a move away from the North-East, with Rodwell undergoing a trial at Vitesse Arnhem ahead of a potential transfer to the Eredivisie.
The 26-year-old detailed his 'hardest spell' of his professional career.
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"This is my hardest spell here but there would be no use in me slacking off or huffing, I need to use this time to get ready for whatever is next. That excites me. I need a new challenge," he told Sportsmail.
"I'm only 26. I feel like I've been in the game for a long time and people can't believe I'm still so young. I've been at Man City and won the league, I've played for England, I've had success and good times, just not enough for someone of my ability.
"Luckily, I'm young enough to change that. It's down to me now, no one else. My hunger is greater than ever, and that's out of pure frustration. I want to write off this negative period and go again with some positive momentum
Rodwell in action for Sunderland. Image: PA
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Rodwell added: "I haven't put in a transfer request but I understand the club's stance and their position and, because of that, I understand it's beneficial for everyone if I move on.
"But it's not the fault of any footballer if a club decides to pay you a certain amount. I have worked from seven years old to get here; to then ask someone to just throw it away, that's difficult.
"I never wanted this. I joined Sunderland, a great club, to be successful, to feel at home again. It hasn't worked out, but that's not through lack of effort.
"Now, for me, it's not about money, it's about playing. If that means moving on to help the club in a situation that suited all parties, I would need no convincing. I'm a footballer, I want a football club.
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"Why would I just walk away and be left jobless? The transfer window has two weeks to run and I'm prepared to do anything to play - any decision will be based on the chance to play football, not money.
Rodwell to Vitesse? Watch this space.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, Sunderland
