• Premier League

Moyes warns United off Rodwell swoop

ESPN staff
March 17, 2011
Jack Rodwell scored at Goodison Park against Manchester United last season © Getty Images
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Everton manager David Moyes has told Sir Alex Ferguson to forget about trying to sign England Under-21 international Jack Rodwell.

Rodwell has been heavily linked with Manchester United as a long-term replacement for Rio Ferdinand, whose fitness has proved unreliable in recent years.

Although Rodwell, who has made 17 league appearances this season, has played most of his football in midfield, he is considered to be more comfortable in the backline.

But while Moyes concedes financial constraints may force him to sell, Rodwell is unlikely to form a part of the Red Devils' defence in the near future.

"I am reluctant to sell Rodwell because I'm trying to build a football team, not dismantle one," Moyes said in the Daily Star. "I just couldn't imagine Liverpool really wanting to sell one of their own, Steven Gerrard or Jamie Carragher, too easily. They have always done everything to keep them.

"It is the same with me. I wanted to keep Wayne Rooney. I also want to keep Jack. Torres wanted to leave, Liverpool held out for the best price and reinvested the money. I am reluctant to sell my best players. I don't see that as being good for any manager.

"But I also understand that there may be financial situations which might mean that has to be the case."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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