Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell has claimed that head coach Dick Advocaat will try to get the best out of him this season.

The 24-year-old has had a stuttering career at the Stadium of Light since he signed for the Black Cats from Manchester City last year.

Injuries have contributed to Rodwell's frustration, but the 24-year-old has insisted that he is feeling fit for the upcoming campaign.

"The manager hasn't said much to me personally, but I get the feeling that he wants to get the best out of me and that is a good thing for a player," The Northern Echo quotes Rodwell as saying.

"Obviously, last season didn't go as planned really. A lot of things went on, with the manager changing."

The North-East outfit will start their season away to Leicester City on August 8.