Former Sunderland player Michael Proctor has urged fans not to write off Jack Rodwell and Emanuele Giaccherini.

Both midfielders were plagued by injury last season.

But Proctor told safc.com: “Getting a fully fit Giaccherini back will be like making a new signing. He barely played last season and he's a top, top international player.

“Jack Rodwell had a tough season but again we know what he can be capable of. For me, one of Dick Advocaat's biggest challenges is to get the best out of him next year."