James Rodriguez could feature for Everton v Aston Villa
Everton playmaker James Rodriguez is yet to feature this season in the Premier League under Rafa Benitez.
The Colombian has history with the new boss during their time at Real Madrid, and no exit route was found during the window.
Despite that, Rodriguez was still left out of the 3-1 win against Burnley on Monday evening ahead of this weekend’s clash with Aston Villa.
The Liverpool Echo has reported this morning that it remains to be seen whether or not he will be involved at Villa Park.
One positive for Rodriguez is that it hasn’t been ruled out, with that being the case in previous fixtures this season.
Labelled as a “world-class” talent, there is no denying that but his fitness is something that clearly holds him back.
Benitez plays 4-4-2 and there isn’t a role for James in that, but he could be a very good impact substitution to have around.
Possible.
Abdoulaye Doucoure was pushed further forward against Burnley after the injury to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and that does create a new role in a new system.
Playing centrally behind Richarlison could be perfect for Rodriguez, and if he is named on the bench this weekend, we could see that.
Benitez will almost certainly not start the South American, but should the game remain level and start to open up later on, Rodriguez could be the difference-maker.
Having a big say on the outcome of this one if selected would be perfect, and it could finally break this somewhat icy tension between manager and player.
What is there to lose?
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