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James Rodriguez Is Close To Everton Departure, It's A Sad Waste Of Talent

James Rodriguez Is Close To Everton Departure, It's A Sad Waste Of Talent

This time last year, he was the talk of the entire Premier League. What a shame.

Daniel Marland

Daniel Marland

James Rodriguez is close to sealing a departure away from Everton, just a year after looking like the club's new cult hero.

The Colombia international is yet to play a game since Rafa Benitez arrived as manager earlier this summer.

He looked to return to Porto in the transfer window but a deal could not be agreed between the clubs.

Paul Joyce has reported the 30-year-old has been offered an escape route by a club in Qatar, as their transfer window doesn't close until September 30.

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PA

It's a sad end to Rodriguez's time at Goodison Park after an incredible start to his debut season.

He arrived from Real Madrid and former manager Carlo Ancelotti managed to get the best out of him in midfield.

The Toffees were challenging at the top of the table before Rodriguez's form fell off and injuries piled up.

Rodriguez has been using Twitch to keep his fans updated on his current situation, something that annoys Everton supporters.

Ahead of the season's start last month, he said: "There is a game on Saturday then, but I don't know, I don't think I'll play.

"Anything can happen here at the end of the month, football always changes fast."

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PA

He then commented on the game against Leeds United on August 21 with: "I will start training on Monday, I think. On the weekend I will not play, I don't even know who Everton is playing, can you please tell me? I think it is away because the past was here at home."

Benitez has maintained there is no personal issue between the pair and discussed the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner's future last week.

"For this game, he was a little bit concerned about his muscle," Benitez said following Saturday's 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa.

"He was having a little problem and we decided we have to wait, so he was not available. That's it.

"We will see if he's fit for the next game and then we will decide."

Do you think James Rodriguez will be a big loss to Everton?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: PA Images

Topics: Football, Transfers, James Rodriguez, Premier League, England, Everton