Carlo Ancelotti has stated that James Rodriguez is not restricted to a particular position when Everton are in possession, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.
The 29-year-old started the season in stunning form. He scored three goals and delivered three assists in his opening five appearances.
However, he has not been involved in a goal in his last three games. This has led to some debate as to where his best position is. Rodriguez has operated from the right wing and no. 10 position already this season.
Ancelotti looked to clarify Rodriguez’s role in his pre-match press conference prior to the side’s home match against Leeds tomorrow.
“When we have the ball he doesn’t have a specific position.
“Usually he is going to find the space he prefers to play,” he said.
James Rodriguez aiming to get back to his best
Rodriguez appears to have now returned to full fitness, and will hope to find his best form again soon. He has started the last two matches after missing a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle earlier this month.
However, Everton do have other injury concerns for this weekend. Lucas Digne is expected to be out for up to three months after suffering ankle ligament damage in training. He is joined on the sidelines by captain Seamus Coleman.
Kenny ready to play, Gbamin update
Right-back Jonjoe Kenny is also not 100%, but Ancelotti has confirmed that he could still feature this weekend.
“I think he’s [Kenny] not fit 100%, but he’s fit and available to play,” he said.
The veteran Italian manager was also able to offer a positive update on the fitness of Jean-Philippe Gbamin. The holding midfielder is yet to play this season, but is now closing in on a return.
“In two weeks he will be here,” Ancelotti announced.
Everton got back to winning ways last weekend when they beat Fulham 3-2. It was their first victory since early October, and saw them rise to sixth in the table.
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