James Rodriguez to return from injury for Everton against Manchester United
The Colombian missed last weekend’s defeat to Newcastle but will now return as Carlo Ancelotti’s side look to snap a two-game losing streak
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Your support makes all the difference.Everton have been handed a boost with the news James Rodriguez will be back in the squad to face Manchester United on Saturday.
The Colombian missed the defeat to Newcastle United last weekend through injury, but manager Carlo Ancelotti has now confirmed his return.
Rodriguez has made a tremendous start to life at Goodison Park, chipping in with three goals and three assists in six games this season, which saw the Toffees briefly hold the top spot in the Premier League.
Ancelotti will hope Rodriguez’s return will help Everton bounce back against a United side entering the game off the back of two straight defeats.
“He is going to play tomorrow and I hope he can do his best,” Ancelotti said in his news conference on Friday.
"I don't know if he's 100 per cent (fit), but we need him. Physically he is OK, he has recovered from the little problem he had.
"If there was a doubt, he wouldn't play. There is no risk for another injury."
Ancelotti also confirmed captain Seamus Coleman (hamstring) and centre back Mason Holgate (toe) will be available.
And there is more good news for Everton with Lucas Digne returning from his one-match suspension.
Fabian Delph is still out with a minor knock, while Richarlison will serve the final game of his three-match suspension following his red card against Liverpool in the fiery Merseyside derby.
Successive defeats to Southampton and Newcastle mean Saturday’s game provides the perfect opportunity for both sides to rally.
“It is a great opportunity to forget these two defeats and to stay at the top (end) of the table,” Ancelotti acknowledged.
“It is true they (United) have been up and down but some games they played really well. We have to expect a team with strong motivation.”
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