Adifficult match against Copa America holders Chile, Jose Pekerman has insisted James Rodriguez plays a central role to his Colombia side, and the attacking midfielder will have to use the opportunity to try and convince Zinedine Zidane to change his club fortunes. His situation at Real Madrid doesn't seem to be changing much, and perhaps won't anytime soon, so there is a possibility the player could leave in the January window if something doesn't give. "James Rodriguez is an essential part of Colombia's system of play," Pekerman said. "He's a great footballer and has the qualities we look for - creativity, finds space, creates advantages off the dribble, and provides assists. "Rodriguez is a flexible player, and, as he has shown at his club, can play in multiple positions." Radamel Falcao is also expected to return to the national team and lead the Cafeteros attack alongide Rodriguez. "We know of his efforts, his disappointments and struggles to come back," Pekerman concluded. "Falcao makes us stronger."
The club itself aren't keen on keeping on board a player not content with his current situation, as it could disrupt the squad harmony Zidane has worked so hard to achieve. Since his injury in the warm-up before the Eibar match, Rodriguez has only played 20 minutes in the league against Leganes, having been left on the bench for the full 90 against Athletic and Alaves. It continues to be another story with Colombia, but good performances for the national team have done little to change Zidane's mind. With only two starts on the year against Espanyol and Villarreal, a January exit continues to be an option for a player in search for more minutes. Juventus are the latest to join the fray in recent weeks, and the Colombian may take his football elsewhere.
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