Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell has revealed his pleasure at being back fit in time to help his team battle to stave off relegation from the Premier League.

The former Everton playmaker has been out of action for a month, but made his return in Sunderland's 1-1 draw with Hull City, in which he grabbed his side's equalising goal at the KC Stadium.

"It is great to be playing again because every game between now and the end of the season is like a cup final," Rodwell told the club's official website.

"There are 10 games remaining in the season for me to hit the ground running and finish strongly.

"I think the fact we don't have a game this weekend will help all of the lads mentally, and it also gives us a little extra time to prepare for another big game against Aston Villa."

The Black Cats currently occupy 16th spot in the Premier League standings, with 26 points from 28 games.