As Everton returned to training for the first time under new boss Rafa Benitez, James Rodriguez caught attention for a classy gesture to one lucky fan.
Rodriguez, who was omitted from Colombia’s Copa America squad, joined a host of familiar faces in returning to Finch Farm on Monday morning for pre-season training.
Approaching the facility in his car, one young Evertonian got the chance to take a selfie with Rodriguez as he entered.
There were smiles all round from Rodriguez and the young fan, who sported a Tom Davies phone case.
The training day will be the squad’s first chance to meet newly appointed manager Rafa Benitez as a unit, with the Spaniard sure to get preparations underway as soon as possible.
However, Benitez has reportedly already held phone calls with a number of key personnel as he seeks to mould a new-look Everton in his image.
Rodriguez faces an uncertain future at Everton, given reports that claim that a long-running feud with Rafa Benitez going back to both men’s spells at Real Madrid threaten to dampen the playmaker’s desire to remain at the club.
AC Milan have been linked with a move for the 29-year-old as a replacement for Turkey international Hakan Calhanoglu.
His compatriot and teammate Yerry Mina was absent as one of a small cohort of Everton players away on international duty.
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With plenty of uncertainty surrounding his future and a busy day of introductory pre-season training, Rodriguez finding the time to make one lucky Blue’s day is a wonderful gesture.
Whether the outcome of Rodriguez’ reported unhappiness at Everton is equally as endearing, however, is a separate matter.
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