In a recent report, Liverpool Echo has mentioned that Everton playmaker James Rodriguez could recover in time for this weekend’s highly anticipated clash versus Manchester United in the Premier League. It is believed that the Toffees remain confident that the Colombian international will win the race against time to be fit for this upcoming showdown at Goodison Park (via Liverpool Echo).
Rodriguez’s Impressive Form At Merseyside Thus Far
The 29-year-old missed last weekend’s 2-1 loss away at Newcastle United due to a hematoma problem but is recovering well which will be a welcome bit of news for anyone associated with the Merseyside club.
Since joining from Real Madrid last summer, Rodriguez has made a dream start to his career at Goodison Park after putting in a string of productive displays on the right side of Carlo Ancelotti’s attack. He has participated in seven matches for the Toffees this term, registering three goals and four assists in multiple competitions.
The ex-FC Porto man has formed a fruitful attacking partnership with Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin and deserves a lot of plaudits for averaging 1.2 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 2.3 shots, 2.8 key passes, 1.3 crosses and 2.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League so far. Rodriguez has distributed the ball with conviction as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 86.1% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
What Does The Colombian International Add To Ancelotti’s Side?
Rodriguez is a technically gifted footballer who can complete some dangerous dribbles down the right flank. He is not shy of cutting inside with his stronger left foot to either whip in some inviting crosses into the opposition penalty box or strike the ball with power from long range.
Surprisingly, the 76-time Colombian international has also worked hard to help out his teammates at the back by chasing down the opposition and winning the ball back for his side. He seems to have improved his performances with each game under the watchful eyes of Ancelotti, so the Everton fans will be desperate to see him back in action when their team host Man United at Goodison Park this weekend.
Rodriguez Set To Comeback From Injury Vs Man United: Big Boost For The Toffees?
Rodriguez has proven himself to be a match-winner, so his availability will be a huge boost for the Merseyside club heading into this Saturday’s clash versus the Red Devils. He is a potent goal-threat and has carried most of the creative burden for the Toffees in the final third.
Rodriguez has the potential to unlock the leaky Man United defence with a killer pass and has got the vision to set-up a few clear-cut chances for Calvert-Lewin up top. Having him back will be a timely boost for Everton but only time will tell whether he will be at his 100%.