1993 Eagle Summit - clutch stuck-

Just got an Eagle Summit with 1.5L. motor and 5-speed. Clutch pedal stuck
in downward position-found the cable to be sticking. After disconnecting
it, found the rod going into the transmission also very hard to move.
After much Liquid Wrench and effort, it moves, but I dont believe it is
free enough to expect the cable from the clutch pedal to move it
reliably(and return). Any ideas on how to get this freed up, or is this a
major problem? Any ideas would be appreciated! thanx, bob d.