As if the Sydney Derby needed added spice after Milos Ninkovic’s blockbuster move to Western Sydney Wanderers, former Everton and Manchester City midfielder Jack Rodwell has moved in the opposite direction to Sydney FC.
Having departed the Wanderers at the conclusion of his one-year deal, ex-England international Rodwell has crossed the Sydney divide to the Sky Blues on a two-year contract.
With two-time Johnny Warren Medallist Ninkovic going from legend to villain upon his off-season switch to Wanderland and Rodwell opting to don the Sky Blue of Sydney FC, it sets the scene for the first Sydney Derby of the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League campaign at Allianz Stadium on November 12.
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“It is such a great feeling to join the most successful club in the country,” Rodwell, who was part of Manchester City’s Premier League-winning squad in 2013-14, said.
“I can’t wait to walk out in the sky blue of Sydney FC for the first game against Melbourne Victory in our amazing new home stadium.
“There is so much quality in the squad and combine that with the winning culture at this football club, this season has the potential to be one of the most exciting in our history.
“I still have so much to achieve here in Australia and I look forward to achieving that success with Sydney FC.”
Rodwell arrived in Australia following his Sheffield United release in June last year.
The 31-year-old scored three goals – his best league return since 2014-15 – in 14 appearances for the Wanderers last term.
Rodwell also captained the A-Leagues All Stars against LaLiga juggernaut Barcelona in Sydney in May.
“Jack’s ability is unquestionable, he’s played at the very highest level and he has adapted to the Australian conditions extremely well,” said Sydney head coach Steve Corica.
“I expect him to get even better this season; he is still in his peak years as a footballer and can excel in various positions.
“We know we had significant competition to secure Jack and we are delighted to have a talent such as his on our books.”
