David Moyes will bring passion, desire and an unrivalled work ethic to Sunderland according to midfielder Jack Rodwell.
Rewind to a sub-zero night in Holland back in 2007, a fresh-faced Rodwell was called upon by Moyes in a UEFA Cup tie against AZ Alkmaar, with the Toffees academy graduate becoming the club’s youngster player in European competition.
Then 16, Rodwell impressed on his competitive debut and under the guidance of Moyes he cemented his place as an integral part of the Scotsman’s Everton side, with a England caps and a big-money move to Manchester City on the horizon.
On Saturday the duo were reunited in red and white with Moyes replacing Sam Allardyce at the helm, and speaking to safc.com Rodwell revealed what his former mentor will bring to the club.
“Its brilliant news and we have a great manager at the club,” said Rodwell. “Credit to Sam [Allardyce] because he did a great job and he’s been rewarded with the England job, so I’d like to wish him all the best but like I said we have a great manager in David Moyes.
“I’ve worked with him in the past and he’s going to be great for the club so moving forward it will be a great appointment.”
He continued: “He brings passion, desire and work ethic to the club and he expects 100% from all the players, but I’m sure that’s exactly what he will get from the squad.
“I could list you loads of players that he’s given a chance to – including myself – starting with Wayne Rooney and the list just goes on and on, so it’s also good for the younger lads at the club.
“It was nice to see him again and the lads are very happy with the appointment so the hard work starts now.
“He’s taken over for France and we’re all looking forward to it.”