Jack Rodwell feels like he is starting over for City after a horrendous run of injury problems saw him start just two games in his first six months with the Club.

The summer purchase from Everton hopes he can provide the same kind of impact as a new arrival in the months that remain of the 2012/13 campaign after working his way back to fitness.

Arguably in line for man-of-the-match honours until his 60th-minute substitution against Chelsea on Sunday, in effect, the season has just started for the 21-year-old midfielder. 

“I’ve not been available for maybe 20 games in mid-season so yeah, I feel like a new signing coming into the team,” said Rodwell.

 

I’ve missed a lot of games which is disappointing, but maybe it’s a good time to come back now for the last push of the season. We need as many bodies as we can

 

...Jack Rodwell...

 

“As the manager brought me off against Chelsea, he said I’d done well. I’m just pleased to be back on the pitch and injury free to be honest.

Jack

“I think the team performance was brilliant on Sunday as well which makes it even better. I was in a few good positions and probably should have scored a couple of goals but at least I was in the right positions so it will happen for me, I’m sure.

“My last start was September. I’ve not really had a lot of opportunities because of the injuries. I’m still young at I’m 21, so I’m still maturing bodily.

 

I feel as though the fans have seen a little bit more of me against Chelsea but there’s still a lot more to come in my opinion

 

...Rodwell...

 

Though Rodwell admits the Blues’ chances of catching United are slim, the team are as one in their determination to fight all the way in the weeks that remain.

He said: “It’s going to be tough but we’ve got the derby game and United are still in the Champions League so there are still a few elements there that could sway in our favour.

Jack

“It’s never over till it’s over. If we play like we did against Chelsea for the rest of the season, we’re in with chance. It’s a small chance but there’s definitely still a chance.

“All we can do is win our games. If we don’t win our games and United don’t then we’ve only got ourselves to blame. We’ve just got to focus on our side.

“I’m not sure how many points United will drop, but if we win all our remaining games we’re definitely in with a chance.”