Done deal: Everton and England midfielder Jack Rodwell completes £15million transfer to Manchester City

DONE DEAL: Rodwell moves to Eastlands

By Dean Wilkins

England youngster Jack Rodwell has completed his move from Everton to Manchester City in a fee believed to be up to £15million.

The 21-year-old midfielder had a medical with the Blues as his new teammates won the Community Shield for the first time since 1972 with a 3-2 victory over Champions League winners Chelsea.

And despite a string of injuries halting the bright star’s future, Rodwell is raring to get his new career underway and compete with the best for a place in City’s first team.

"I relish the opportunity of playing with some of the best players in the world and continuing my development," Rodwell said.

Rodwell has been selected for Roy Hodgson’s side against Italy and will immediately embark on seeking his third England cap – after being forced to miss Stuart Pearce’s Olympics squad through injury.

But Rodwell – who has supported Everton all his life – will be eager to gain his first taste of City life when the Premier League champions begin their title defence against Southampton at the Etihad Stadium.

"The hard work starts today as I start to help contribute to the club winning more silverware," Rodwell added.

"The season has started really well with the Community Shield win."

And City boss Roberto Mancini – who praised the return of a fitter, leaner Carlos Tevez following their Community Shield victory – is excited about his new signing after bemoaning the club’s transfer activity.

"He is a good player," said Mancini. "He is young and this is the first time he is at a club that plays to win. It will be different for him.

"But in a couple of years I am sure he will be a top and stronger midfielder.

"I said I was unhappy (on Friday)," he said. "It is normal. Every manager is unhappy with one week to go and you haven't bought any players.

"I hope we are working and maybe this week or in ten days we can do something about it."

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