Jack Rodwell is relishing the new challenge of playing for Sunderland. The England midfielder moved to the Stadium of Light for £10million during the summer transfer window, with Gus Poyet spending big on a player who has endured his injury struggles in recent years.
The 23 year old told the Echo: "If you're asking me is it different from Manchester City, then yes, it is different.
"At Manchester City, we were always on the ball and playing and we try to do that here at Sunderland as well.
"But we also play a three in central midfield here, whereas I am used to playing in a two, so that is a new style, a new system for me.
"It something I'm still adjusting to, but I'm getting there.
"I'm playing a bit further up field, too. I'm starting off further up the pitch in my starting position, whereas in a two I might start a bit deeper and end up there.
"So I'm getting used to starting in that position too, I suppose."
Rodwell has embraced the challenge of becoming a playmaker, with more of an impact now expected of him in the final third.
He added: "That's what the manager wants and I'm enjoying it really.
"I've got one goal this season but I've had a couple of chances here and there.
"For all of us though it just needs to fall in the right positions - strikers as well - there's not quite been enough clear-cut chances, but I think they'll come."
