Chris Wilder on former Sunderland player Jack Rodwell's future at Sheffield United

A decision will be taken on Jack Rodwell’s future with Sheffield United at the end of the season, Chris Wilder has admitted, despite confirming the former Sunderland, Manchester City and England midfielder is poised to make his first appearance for the club since July.
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Rodwell, who has yet to feature in a competitive fixture this term, is set to be named in the squad which faces Plymouth Argyle at Bramall Lane tomorrow after recovering from what Wilder described as a “freakish” injury.

With his contract set to expire this summer, the fourth round tie represents an opportunity for the 29-year-old to begin staking a claim for a new deal ahead of what is expected to be a major reshaping exercise. After finding themselves 12 points adrift of safety at the bottom of the Premier League table, Wilder privately concedes several key members of United’s starting eleven could be tempted away if they surrender their top-flight status.

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Outlining the difficulties Rodwell has faced in his battle for fitness because of social distancing restrictions imposed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Wilder said: “It’s been difficult for Jack because he can’t take part in under-23 games or behind closed doors matches. That’s not been talked about a lot. We sent a team over to Manchester United last season, for example, and played local opposition in order to get minutes into the lads. So it’s been a struggle.

Chris Wilder welcomes Jack Rodwell, previously of Sunderland, Manchester City and Everton, to Bramall Lane: Simon Bellis/SportimageChris Wilder welcomes Jack Rodwell, previously of Sunderland, Manchester City and Everton, to Bramall Lane: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Chris Wilder welcomes Jack Rodwell, previously of Sunderland, Manchester City and Everton, to Bramall Lane: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

“He had a freakish injury where he fell and damaged himself. But he’s back with us now and he’ll be involved against Plymouth.”

Asked if coaching staff were considering offering Rodwell an extension to his present terms, Wilder, who last called upon the player’s services at Burnley six months ago, replied: “We've still got plenty of games left, and hopefully a few more in the cup. We know all about Jack and his back catalogue - where he’s been and what he’s achieved. To be honest, I haven’t thought about his future at the moment because all I’m looking at is what’s in front of me, which is the next game, and trying to make sure we win that.”

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