TalkSport pundit expresses ‘concern’ as Everton close in on ‘real statement’ signing

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Ally McCoist thinks that Everton are about to make a ‘real statement’ by signing Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez, as he told talkSPORT (01/09/20 at 7:50 am).

But the former Scotland striker expressed his ‘concern’ at the potential signing and whether Rodriguez will have the mentality to deliver the goods in the Premier League.

TalkSport did previously claim that the Toffees are closing in on Rodriguez’s signature, with the Colombian set to re-unite with Carlo Ancelotti.

A player like Rodriguez is much-needed at Goodison Park, it’s just a case of whether he can live up to expectations, as McCoist has his doubts.

“Massive statement,” McCoist told talkSPORT. “The one thing you want when you sign a player is if the guy is [eager] to turn up for work. By that I mean, fit to play, available for selection and do they play? That would be a concern of mine.

“Look, he’s extremely talented. There’s no getting away from it. I’m not sure he is a Real Madrid standard player. I know he had an absolutely fantastic World Cup [in 2014]. But it would concern me.

“If he turns for his work, he would be a great signing. If he’s fit and you get him playing, I think it would give Everton a real, real boost. It is a statement, a real statement to make – Only time will tell on a signing like that.”

Rodriguez burst onto the footballing scene during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil when the left-footed magician showcased his technical skills and long-range shooting to the world.

Madrid, who were managed by Ancelotti, snapped up his services, and despite playing in a team that run riot in Europe, the 29-year-old failed to progress to the heights many thought he was going to reach.

This isn’t just a big move for Everton, but it’s perhaps a bigger move for Rodriguez because he has a lot to prove if he does swap Madrid for Merseyside.