Everton defeated 2-1 at Leeds United, as a visitor, at the Elland Road stadium, in play corresponding to matchday 21 of the Premier League, and added his 11th victory in the championship. The Toffees are sixth in the standings with 36 points.
The midfielder James Rodríguez was not present at the engagement, who was not a starter and was on the substitute bench. This situation caused a lot of curiosity since since he overcame his muscular problems he had been playing first baseman.
James, during a training session with Everton Getty Images
Although the reasons why the Colombian midfielder was not on the pitch are unknown, at ESPN FC we analyze the possible causes that led to James not being in coach Carlo Ancelotti’s line-up.
Fabián Vargas, panelist and former Boca Juniors flyer, gave his opinion on the matter and ruled out any physical problem of the player, also said that the Italian DT may be taking care of him for the next game against Manchester United.
“They said that he could be touched but I don’t think that a player who is touched will go to the bench. For that they leave him recovering at the kinesiologist so that he is fit for the next game. Nor do I see why you have to set the alarms if you do not appear in a game, when a number of games are playing on Wednesday and Sunday … For me it is normal, “said Vargas.
In addition, the former coach of the Colombian National Team recalled Rodríguez Rubio’s last presentation to explain a possible displeasure by Ancelotti with his performance.
“Maybe there he charged something (Ancelotti) that he did not like on Sunday, many technicians do it, but what he is looking for is to have alternatives and have the team fresh for everything that is coming,” said the panelist.
James Rodríguez has 1133 minutes in the Premier League, has played 14 games, 13 of them as a starter and has scored four goals. In addition, he has three assists in the championship.
The midfielder’s next meeting will be on Saturday February 6 against Manchester United for the British tournament.
