Mark Smith

Fri 28 May 2021 18:05, UK

Everton playmaker James Rodriguez has been ruled out of Colombia’s squad for this summers’ COPA America.

It was confirmed on Friday that our midfield superstar had undergone medical examinations after missing the final day clash with Manchester City.

Rodriguez caused great controversy ahead of that defeat, posting a picture on social media of his jetting away on his private plane.

Colombia released a statement via the Liverpool Echo this afternoon, with the playmaker set for an extended spell on the sidelines.

“The coaching staff of the Colombia Men’s Senior Team reports that the player James Rodríguez has been called off for the games against Peru and Argentina for the qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and the CONMEBOL Copa América 2021,” they wrote.

“In recent days, the midfielder was subjected to medical examinations, which determined that he is not at the optimal level of competition, therefore, he will not be able to join the group called by Reinaldo Rueda for the aforementioned commitments and the South American championship.”

Shocker.

This makes that embarrassing social media post even worst.

Rodriguez will have known that it wasn’t looking hopeful of him making a massive contribution for his country this summer.

Richard Keys shared that the playmaker has only completed 90 minutes seven times in the past season, and although shining at parts, that is nowhere near enough.

So, this injury is turning into a long-term problem.

We need Rodriguez to be much more consistent in the Premier League next season, and missing the COPA America could be vital to that.

This now gives our star player at least a month to fully recover, we hope that unleashes a different animal ahead of next season.

In other Everton news, Carlo Ancelotti meets with Marcel Brands, the Toffees are set on one signing – reliable journalist