Jack Rodwell is focused on the future and enjoying his football once again after agreeing a one year deal at Rovers.

The 27-year-old saw his career stall in four years at Sunderland in which he played just 44 times during an injury-plagued time on Wearside.

But Tony Mowbray is keen to give him an opportunity to prove himself once again having twice commanded transfer fees in excess of £10m following spells with Everton and Manchester City.

And Rodwell says Mowbray played a key part in him moving to East Lancashire.

“It’s important for me to get out there and start playing football again,” Rodwell said after signing last night.

“There have been ups and downs over the years, but that’s in the past and now I’m just looking forward and focussed on the future ahead.

“After meeting the manager, I feel it’s an ambitious club and a great fit for me.

“He sold the club to me and came across really well. I’ve played here a few times during my time at Everton and enjoyed playing at Ewood Park, so I’m looking forward to playing there in a Blackburn shirt now.

“After meeting the gaffer I could tell he loves his role and is very passionate about the club. I can’t wait to get playing under him.”

Rodwell, who has been a free agent since leaving the Stadium of Light, has played much of his recent football in central midfield but it is understood that Mowbray sees him as another option in central defence where he started his career.

Rovers have been looking to add a fourth centre half to their ranks, and could revisit a move for Charlton Athletic defender Patrick Bauer in January having been priced out of a move for the 25-year-old German by the League One club this summer.

Rodwell played 109 times for Everton, having graduated through the club’s Academy, making his Premier League debut against Sunderland in March 2008, two days before his 17th birthday.

He moved to Manchester City in August 2012 for around £12m and despite playing just 25 times, they recouped almost all of that fee when selling him to Sunderland in 2014.

He added: “It feels brilliant to sign here. I’ve obviously had a bit of time off, but I can’t wait to get going again. It’s a great club and I’m just really excited to be playing again.

“Blackburn is a club which has won the Premier League before and it doesn’t get bigger or better than that.

“I knew a bit about the club and he (Mowbray) has told me a lot about the lads, the team spirit and the camaraderie in the group. That’s something I will enjoy getting involved in.

“It’s a new chapter and something I’m looking forward to.”

Rodwell, who has three England caps, believes he still has a lot to give after 10 years in the game.

“I’ve had 10 years of first team football and at 27 I am still relatively young, so I have that youth and experience under my belt, which will hopefully show in my performances,” he added.

“I will be aiming to use that experience to help the team.

“I don’t think I have anything to prove. I want to enjoy it and prove to myself, to be honest. I want to love the game again and play week in, week out.”