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That was the first time that the Colombian, being fully available, did not play in the Premier League. Can’t relax.
End of speculation. At the press conference prior to Saturday’s game against Manchester United, Carlo Ancelotti explained why James Rodríguez was a substitute in Everton’s 2-1 victory over Leeds. The reason? Give you rest.
“If James did not play well against Newcastle, that is an opinion, it may be that of many, but not mine. I didn’t give him a break for that game. I did it rather because he played three games in a row. I need it fresh for the next game and it also serves to prevent injuries. That’s why James and Keane weren’t against Leeds, I’m going to rotate tomorrow too, ”said the Italian DT.
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Of course, the day before the duel against Leeds, Ancelotti said these words at the press conference. “The quality of James, Richarlison or Calvert-Lewin was not enough to win. The spirit of the game is not something to turn on or off, to have spirit you have to be ready, train and focus ”. Of the three, the only one who did not play was the cucuteño.
And in his statements this Friday, Ancelotti also said between the lines another reason for James’ substitution: “It is a normal way of managing the squad: to keep it motivated and avoid injuries.” Although he is a starter, he cannot conform.
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On Thursday, the official Everton media published an interview with James in which he said that his relationship with Ancelotti was excellent. “We have a fantastic relationship: like a father and son.”