SOCCER | PREMIER LEAGUE
James Rodriguez among five Everton players self-isolating
Everton will be without five players against Southampton due to COVID-19 protocols, including James Rodriguez.
James Rodriguez is among five Everton players who will miss their first Premier League game of the season against Southampton after being forced into self-isolation.
Toffees boss Rafael Benitez confirmed that attacking midfielder James is one of the players he will be without in Saturday's clash with the Saints at Goodison Park due to coronavirus protocols.
Benitez only names James
The former Liverpool manager said: "We have some players who are in isolation and we have to manage that.
"We have to be very careful, and some players have to be at home. James is one of them.
"I will not name too many players because I think it is better not to do it."
Strike duo Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be available to take on Ralph Hasenhuttl's side.
Richarlison returned to training on Wednesday after winning a gold medal for Brazil at the Tokyo Olympics, while Calvert-Lewin has recovered from a toe injury.