Everton: 3 players who need to step up in absence of James Rodriguez

Abdoulaye Doucoure can involve himself more in the attack.

3. Abdoulaye Doucoure

Now again, Doucoure is neither a winger nor a playmaker so he doesn’t directly solve or fill in James’ role. But, the Frenchman stepping up and taking on more responsibilities will definitely help Everton’s cause.

Abdoulaye Doucoure is a classic box-to-box, powerful midfielder who can equally share the praise that Everton midfield has been getting recently after the summer upgrades. With Rodriguez out, Doucoure may fancy himself getting more involved in the attack.

So far, we haven’t seen much of Doucoure in the attack and his absence hasn’t been felt either because of the colossal impacts the front three has had. But, the 27 year old is capable of giving much more in the final third.

When Everton are on the offensive front, Doucoure can get more involved in the final third, making those timed runs in the box or even trying a shot from distance.

The former Watford star is carrying out his defensive duties to perfection but it is the offensive play that Doucoure needs to demonstrate at Goodison. With no James on the right, the 27 year old can actually become a dependable option around the D area.

James Rodriguez has had such an astronomical influence in such a short span of time and replacing him and his role won’t be a one man job. There will be several players who’ll have to step up and perform to the highest of their abilities.