Khazri goes to Rennes looking to regain ‘taste’

Wahbi Khazri says he wants to get his “taste for football” back after joining French side Rennes on loan.

The Tunisian did not start a league game this season for Sunderland after a prolonged spell out of the side last year.

Khazri has returned to France on a season-long deal with no option to buy.

The 26-year-old winger had made it clear he wanted to leave Sunderland following relegation from the Premier League and his wish was granted on deadline day.

Khazri said: “It was important to me to find the pleasure of playing and I think I can do it here.

“I want to show what I can do and find the taste of football that I lost a bit.

“I spoke with president Ruello and Christian Gourcuff. I felt that my arrival made them happy.

“It’s nice to feel wanted. I am glad that my arrival in Rennes has come true in good conditions.”

Khazri says he ‘matured’ during his difficult time on Wearside and is stronger for the experience.

“I have a lot of years experience in Ligue 1. Playing in the Premier League brought me a lot.

“I experienced a stronger game and pressure in England. I matured at this level. I hope to bring my qualities and experience of a high level to this group, while remaining myself. I will do it with pleasure.”

Earlier in the week, Khazri had taken to social media to declare he is “proud” to play for Sunderland – just days after declaring that he wanted to leave. As a result of his initial comments, sub Khazri was booed onto the field at Barnsley by fans.

His departure helped free up wages to allow Grayson to bring in trio Callum McManaman, Marc Wilson and Jonny Williams on deadline day.