WAHBI KHAZRI was told by David Moyes that he could leave Sunderland this summer – and the manager’s exit has not altered the chances of him going.

The Tunisian forward does not want to play in the Championship and he would still like to play in the Premier League.

Khazri is aware of strong interest in him from France, where he was a success with Bordeaux before moving to Sunderland 18 months ago in a £9m deal.

He has been frustrated with a lack of opportunities under Moyes this season and that appears to have contributed to him seeking a move even though the manager quit on Monday.

The 26-year-old told L’Equipe: “After six very good first months, Sunderland changed coach and I have not played much. My head did not come back.

“Before being fired (Moyes resigned) on Sunday, he told me clearly that I could leave. It falls well: I do not see myself staying.

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

Moyes, who took over from Sam Allardyce last July, initially accused Khazri of returning to pre-season training overweight and he struggled to force his way into his plans after that.

Sunderland fans became increasingly frustrated with Moyes’ decision to overlook him regularly.

Khazri said: “Mentally, I struggled with playing very little this season, while the team did not turn. I was also not used to it.

“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’s more serious in life.”