Carlo Ancelotti has hinted that James Rodriguez could be in line to play against Southampton on Sunday.
As detailed by the Liverpool Echo, Ancelotti said: “He trained today. I hope he is going to train tomorrow and we will see if he is in condition to play on Sunday.”
James Rodriguez has made a fast start at Everton
The 29-year old has been in sparkling form since arriving from Real Madrid last month. Registering three goals and three assists in five appearances, Rodriguez has played a major role in helping Everton to the top of the table.
However, the Colombian playmaker was on the receiving end of a forceful tackle during the Merseyside derby last weekend. This was expected to keep him out of the match at St Mary’s. Ancelotti’s latest update suggests that James Rodriguez could still have a part to play in the game.
Support for Pickford
The experienced Italian manager has also offered his view on goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Everton’s first-choice goalkeeper was widely criticised for his tackle on Virgil van Dijk last weekend, which led to the Dutchman suffering serious knee ligament damage.
This has led to speculation that Pickford could be at risk of being benched, with Robin Olsen getting the gloves instead.
When asked if he would consider dropping Pickford, Ancelotti said: “No, I have no consideration to take him out. I think he is going to play on Sunday.”
Coleman misses out
There is not such positive news for captain Seamus Coleman. The experienced full-back was forced off early on against Liverpool with a hamstring injury. He has not recovered in time for this weekend’s match.
Coleman joins Jonjoe Kenny on the sidelines, meaning that Ben Godfrey will fill in at right-back once more. The recent signing from Norwich replaced Coleman last weekend, and will get another chance to stake his claim for a regular starting berth.
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