Kevin Campbell describes Rodriguez’ debut Everton season as ‘okay’
We’re delighted to welcome former Everton striker Kevin Campbell as our exclusive columnist. Each week the former Toffees captain will be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Goodison Park…
Kevin Campbell believes that James Rodriguez has enjoyed an “okay” first season with Everton in the Premier League.
The Colombian playmaker joined the Blues on a free contract from Real Madrid in the summer in what was a surprise move for the former World Cup Golden Boot winner.
Though plagued by injury throughout his debut campaign in England, James ended the season with six goals and nine assists across all competitions.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News Campbell reflected on James’ first season with Everton, claiming that he was able to show flashes of brilliance throughout.
Campbell said: “I think James Rodriguez has done okay to be honest.
“I don’t think he’s been brilliant, he’s had brilliant flashes but this is an experienced player who for the first time is coming to England to play in the Premier League.
“He’s probably watched it on TV and thought ‘yeah I could do it there’, and then next minute, whether you’re playing Manchester City at the top or Sheffield United at the bottom, it’s a tough game.
“It takes a little bit of getting use to, and he’s had his struggles with injuries and knocks, but he’s shown flashes and he’s done okay.”
Potential to be even better
James Rodriguez had been flush with injury throughout the season which unfortunately hampered his ability to influence Everton’s ultimately league position.
However it does need pointing out that Rodriguez’s injury record is precisely why Everton have been able to sign the Colombia superstar, whose ability alone would see him play for a much better club than Everton if he could remain fit.
The Toffees always knew that he wasn’t likely to feature every week, though admittedly he missed more games than we’d like, but his ability to influence attacking play can’t be denied.
Everton always looked better with him on the pitch, and should he find himself able to get a strong pre-season on his belt, the Blues could be a force with a fully fit Rodriguez pulling the strings.
Carlo Ancelotti must strengthen considerably this summer so that the Blues aren’t entirely reliant on Rodriguez next season, but James also needs to find an extra gear to propel Everton to success.
In other Everton news, Richard Keys destroys this Toffees star, shares embarrassing stat after big incident over the weekend.
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