Marcus Bent believes James Rodriguez still has the support and trust of his Everton team-mates despite recent remarks on social media.
Ahead of their 2-2 draw with Leeds United last month, the Colombia international admitted to not knowing who the Toffees’ next opponents were on his Twitch account.
The comments, which came after being told he does not feature in new boss Rafa Benitez’s plans, infuriated Everton supporters.
Should James be backed by his team-mates?
Yes
No
Everton were desperate to offload the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner during the transfer window, with the winger currently earning £90,000-per-week, but a buyer was not forthcoming before last week’s deadline.
According to Fichajes and Calcio In Pillole reporter Ekrem Konur, Premier League rivals Newcastle United were interested in negotiating a late loan deal for Rodriguez, who has made just 26 appearances since joining Everton, but a deal could not be struck.
While Bent admits those at boardroom level would not have been pleased with Rodriguez’s online admission, the former Toffees frontman feels the 30-year-old’s team-mates would be willing to welcome him back into the squad with open arms.
He exclusively told TIF: “Social media is a massive thing at the minute. I don’t feel like he should have said it or that the players don’t trust him.
“I think they’ll be behind him. I think the club will feel a bit disrespected by it but he is on big money. Whether they want to now keep him or move him on in January, we shall see.”