Sunderland boss Gus Poyet is ready to play Jack Rodwell against Manchester City.

With midfield duo Seb Larsson and Liam Bridcutt both injury doubts for the New Year's Day trip to the Etihad, Rodwell has been put on standby.

Poyet expects the 23-year-old to grab his chance with both hands, and the Sunderland head coach insisted: "I need him.

"We need everyone in the squad to play their role. I'm sure he'll bounce back and probably have a great opportunity on Thursday with the injuries in midfield."