Advocaat Backs Roma-Linked Rodwell To Succeed In Serie A

Roma are looking to give their injury-ravaged midfield some much needed first aid and are eyeing the former England international, who is a free agent after leaving Blackburn Rovers at the end of last season.

The likes of Bryan Cristante, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Amadou Diawara are all serving time on the treatment table leaving Paulo Fonseca thin in midfield.

Rodwell trained with Roma this week to prove his fitness levels and a deal could be struck as early as next week if the Giallorossi hierarchy are impressed.

Advocaat worked with Rodwell at Sunderland during a short spell in charge at the Stadium of Light in 2015, and he believes the former Manchester City and Everton midfielder can succeed in Serie A if a move comes to fruition.

“I’m not surprised,” the 72-year-old told Teleradiostereo.

“He was one of the brightest prospects in English football and this is confirmed by the fact that he was signed by Manchester City.

“After that, several injuries held back his growth, but he’s a player who, if fit, can show his full potential.

“He’s an attacking midfielder with a great first touch. He often plays with two touches and has very good vision.

“I was at the helm of Sunderland for only a few months, but he’s undoubtedly an excellent player.

“I don’t think he’ll struggle to adapt in Italy. He has the potential to do well in Serie A.

“His heavy contract with City slowed him down a bit, but he can be an important player again.”