Everton are set to start a new chapter on a fresh page with a new manager Rafa Benitez. Carlo Ancelotti left Everton, leaving a sour taste and angering Everton supporters. A controversial appointment for many, Benitez has vowed to show the same fighting spirit as he has shown at other clubs that he has managed. In his press conference before the Southampton game, he delivered updates on James Rodriguez, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Richarlison.
Everton begin their 2021-22 season officially on Saturday, taking on Southampton in the first game of the league campaign. There is a lot of uncertainty around what happens to James Rodriguez, does he stay, does he leave, will he be a part of Rafa Benitez’s plans?
The Colombian arrived at Goodison Park last year, thanks to the pulling power of Ancelotti. Quite frankly, James came to Everton because of Ancelotti. Now that the Italian is gone, doubts loom over the player’s stay as well. Reportedly, his agent, Jorge Medes is trying to engineer a move away from Merseyside.
Reports were flying around that James was training alone and in Benitez’s first Premier League pre-match conference, he did address James’ future and whether he’s available for the Southampton clash.
"“I have had my conversations with him [James Rodriguez] at the beginning and he knows my idea. Now he’s not available so it’s not an issue for tomorrow. We will discuss with the players, their agents for the best outcome for everyone” (via Everton Official Youtube Channel)"
Further, the Spanish boss provided an update saying that there is no injury related issue but the Colombian is instead isolating. There are a total of five players isolating and James is one of them.
"“We have some players that are in isolation now with COVID. We have to be very careful, some players have to be at home and he is one of them. “"
The former Newcastle boss also addressed the availability of Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin. DCL missed the Manchester United friendly due to a slight knock. Benitez has said that the Englishman will be available.
Richarlison who recently won the 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold with Brazil returned to Everton just a few days ago and has not had his summer break. Luckily, for Everton, Richarlison will be available for the Southampton clash.
"“Richarlison and Calvert-Lewin are available, James Rodriguez is out and we have some players in isolation so we have to manage that.Obviously if you analyze the stats of the last year, he [Richarlison] was scoring goals with Dominic. He is a key player, when he wanted to go to the Olympic Games. We knew it would be a good opportunity for him. At the moment he’s [Richarlison] fine, training well & wants to help the team”"
The Toffees will be returning to Goodison Park and will be hoping that their team can start the new season on a high note, defeating the Saints and registering the first win under Rafa Benitez.
Will the Toffees win the opening game of the season?