James Rodriguez seems poised for Everton exit

Just a year after having looked to have finally found a long-term home in Everton, James Rodriguez appears to be set for a quick exit.

The Colombian joined the Toffees in large part due to his close relationship with Carlo Ancelotti but, with the Italian off to Real Madrid coupled with the arrival of Rafael Benitez, who didn't see eye to eye with him when together at Los Blancos, James' future is up in the air.

When Benitez was asked about James' future, he didn't give a straight answer, which former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips believes is a sign he may be on the move.

"It's definitely a hint or a sign. He doesn't want to comment on it and I understand that managers don't want to sometimes," Phillips told Football Insider.

"But that's almost a way of saying 'He's there, come and get him' without actually having to say those words.

"Managers always like to make a statement and I think that might be his way of saying it judging by the way he's answered that question. From my experience, that suggests that the player will be made available."