Khazri fears he won’t feature for Sunderland again

Wahbi Khazri admits deep frustration over his lack of playing time last season and is convinced he has pulled on a Sunderland shirt for the last time.

After joining from Bordeaux in January 2016, the winger was a key cog in helping Sunderland dramatically escape relegation under Sam Allardyce in his first six months at the club.

But with David Moyes taking the reins last summer, the striker fell out of favour and of his 21 appearances during the Black Cats’ relegation campaign, 14 were as a substitute.

Khazri acknowledges he got fed up with the situation, with a potential return to Ligue 1 is mooted, and the 26-year-old is keen to escape from Wearside.

“After six very good first months, Sunderland changed coach and I have not played much,” said Khazri. “Before he left, Moyes clearly told me I could leave.

“I do not see myself staying, I do not want to play in the Championship. I have three years left, and my transfer would make everyone happy.

(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“I was also not used to it [not playing]. On the other hand, it hardened me. Having played little for a year allows me to be physically and mentally well.

“It’s just football, and when you see what’s going on in the world right now, I think there are more serious things in life.

“Do they [French clubs] want me? I think I left a good image. But for the moment, I do not have contact from Ligue 1.

“I do not close any door, but I like England, its atmosphere, its full stadiums, its beautiful pitches and its mentality, different from ours.”