Tim Vickery shares insight into Everton’s fanbase in Colombia because of James Rodriguez

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Tim Vickery told the Transfer Show on Sky Sports (06/01/21 at 1:25 pm) that Everton are now ‘very, very well known’ in Colombia because of James Rodriguez.

The South American football expert hailed the start the technically-gifted footballer has had on Merseyside, even though injury has stopped his recent progression.

Everton started the season like a house on fire and Rodriguez working his magic in the middle of the park was one of the big reasons behind that.

Nonetheless, Vickery shared his thoughts on Rodriguez and Everton having a new fan base in his home country.

“Some were writing him off,” said Vickery. “And I was telling you that this is a terrific player. So when it started so well, the combination with the Brazilian Allan, the problem solver, that seemed to be great.

“But since the first international window of South America’s World qualifiers in October, we have seen the other side of him, which is he is injury-prone. So, hopefully now the second half of the season, Everton can keep him fit because you have already seen what he can bring to the side.

“And that partnership with Richarlison, the long diagonal passes he can hit, that’s very, very difficult to defend against.

On Everton having a new fan base in Colombia because of Rodriguez: “They certainly do. He is the biggest star in Colombian football and Everton are now very, very well known.

“They are trying to capitalise on this in Colombia. They are launching marketing initiatives, trying to build a bond with the Colombian people. Based not only on James but also on the big charismatic centre-back Yerry Mina.”

If Everton can continue their recent charge then European football will beckon at the end of the season.

And that will only allow someone like Rodriguez to shine even further because he is well-aware of how to dazzle on the European stage.

The combination of Allan, Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucouré in the middle of the park is a mouthwatering one. Added with the firepower of Richarlison and Dominic Calver-Lewin ahead of them, so it’s good times ahead for those at Goodison Park.