EVERTON HANDED MAJOR INJURY BOOST
Merseyside giants Everton have been given a timely boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace after the international break next month after playmaker James Rodriguez declared himself fit. The Toffess will play hosts to the Eagles a week on Monday and they are expected to have Colombian international James Rodriguez in their ranks for the game after the new development. Everton fans took to their various social media portals to express happiness at the good news involving James Rodriguez.
Everton started the recent poor run at the home of fellow Champions League chasers Chelsea earlier this month. The Toffees were on the receiving end of a 2-0 defeat courtesy a Ben Godfrey own goal and a Jorginho penalty either side of the halftime break. The loss at the home of Chelsea was followed by the disappointing defeat at home to Burnley. Everton were beaten 2-1 at home by the Clarets in the league. The Merseysiders conceded the first goal of the game to Burnley striker Chris Wood at Goodison Park before a wonder goal from Dwight McNeil doubled the lead for the visitors.
England striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin pulled one back just before half-time but the hosts were not able to rescue the game in the second half. The third straight loss happened in the FA Cup at the weekend. Ilkay Gundogan and second half substitute Kevin De Bruyne scored late goals to lead Manchester City to a 2-0 away win over Everton in the FA Cup quarterfinals. Manchester City will now face Chelsea for a place next month for a spot in the final of the competition scheduled for May.