Everton‘s season, and James Rodriguez‘s along with it, has been a rollercoaster, with expectations fluctuating from Champions League hopefuls to European qualification to being completely up in the air.
With the ups and downs, praise and criticism of star man James has gone hand in hand.
The Colombian playmaker’s physical condition has played a big part in the inconsistency of his season, and it has reached the point where he now has an agreement with Carlo Ancelotti to not play until he has fully recovered.
The Italian boss wants James at 100 percent for the important games at the end of the season, but here are several question marks surrounding this pact.
1. What is really wrong with James?
The main doubt arises from the fact that Everton haven’t revealed the nature of James‘ injury problems, with everything being handled with such an air of secrecy that it has led to rumours of all kinds.
2. When will he be recovered?
The end of March has been mentioned by the player as a period he wants to be ready for, so perhaps that might give an indication, but the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City is now less than a week away.
3. Will he be ready when they need him?
There have been suggestions, backed up with stats, that the Toffees do better without the Colombian, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need what he can offer. They need him at 100 percent, though.
4. Are Everton happy with James?
It’s not clear as the Colombian arrived with sky-high expectations, but Everton can scarcely afford a star player who isn’t contributing enough.
5. Will he be at Everton long term?
The Champions League might be a dream for Everton, but it’s a necessity for James and at 29 years old he doesn’t have long to hang about if he wants to return to playing in Europe’s top competition.
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