Wahbi Khazri wants to quit Sunderland and eyes move back to Ligue 1 with Marseille
Says Tunisian ace who felt ignored by David Moyes: 'Before he resigned he told me clearly that I can leave - that suits me'
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WAHBI KHAZRI wants to leave relegated Sunderland.
The Tunisia international has targeted Marseille as his favoured destination but wouldn’t close the door on a move to a Premier League club.
Midfielder Khazri, 26, was signed from Bordeaux in January 2016 and was a major influence as the Black Cats beat the drop under Sam Allardyce a year ago.
But under David Moyed he felt ignored, although Khazri did make 23 appearances in all competitions as the Wearsiders headed for the drop.
Khazri, 26, told "I had six very good months at first, but once Sunderland changed managers I didn't play much more.
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"I didn't come into David Moyes' thinking, and before he resigned he told me clearly that I can leave.
"That suits me fine. I can't see myself staying - I don't want to play in the Championship.
"I have three years left on my contract, and a transfer would suit everybody.
"It was mentally very painful for me to play so seldom this season while the team was not doing well.
"It was also something I was unused to, although it has made me stronger. Playing so little for a year has enabled me to be healthy in both body and mind.
"It is after all only football, and when I see what is going on in the world right now I tell myself there are far more serious matters.
"I think I made a good impression in France, but I've not had any approaches from Ligue 1 clubs so far.
"I won't close any doors, but I love playing in England. The atmospheres, the packed stadiums, the beautiful pitches and the attitudes are all different to those in France.
"Even if you are fighting to stay up and you are relegated, you play to win and you have more space on the pitch.
"I love it. It is nothing like the French league - I followed the final day of the Ligue 1 season and it was painful to watch.
"If Marseille contacted me I would be entitled to listen to what they have to offer. They are a terrific club, with a great stadium and superb fans.
"But it is not on the cards right now. I need to be patient - but I am hungry to play football once more."