The James are the football leaders of Everton and Leicester and have returned to their best form. James Rodriguez suffered a muscle injury that caused him to miss several games in December, while James Maddison did not have a good start to the season. Now, they are key pieces by Carlo Ancelotti and Brendan Rodgers.
An important duel is coming in the Premier League between the two teams. Ancelotti has always pointed out that the number one objective is to return to European competitions , while those led by Rodgers, third in the classification, dream of conquering the League again and being in the Champions League.
The confrontation of the game creators could be the key. James Rodríguez and James Maddison like to team up short and shoot from long range . The Colombian with his left foot and the English with both profiles. Although they are different in style, when the ball passes his feet the ideas start to get dangerous in that last quarter of the court. They are the main partners of his scorers Calvert-Lewin and Jamie Vardy.
So are their numbers in Premier League
James Rodríguez has played 12 Premier League games, 11 as a starter. He has three goals and three assists. According to the statistics of the English league, he has a 45% accuracy in his shot and has given 554 passes, almost a total of 46.17 per game. His long, filtered passes from behind the defense are important for wingers and wings. This season, he has made 66 accurate long passes.
On the other hand, the '10' of Leicester has more games, in total there are 17, 12 as a starter, he has scored 6 goals and has given 2 assists. The Englishman has a shooting accuracy of 27%, he has given 527 passes, for a total of 31.00 per game. The long game is not one of his main characteristics, however, he adds 20 precise long passes.
This is his influence on the game of Everton and Leicester
James and Maddison have freedom, Ancelotti and Rodgers know that they can connect the front row of shuttlecocks and in attack with the wingers and forwards. The short partnership is paramount for both of you. Opening the court is another of his functions. In that last quarter of the court they can also contribute with medium distance shots.
Where is the key to the James-Maddison duel?
The key will be to keep both playmakers active. When Everton gives up the ball, James can't make a difference and the same is true at Leicester. Overriding short connections can also be critical. Richarlison and Digne are important partners of the Colombian. Another key will be the constant pressure when they receive from the back or the front, leaving them without the option of thinking or creating. There the brand and defenders flyers will have to be very aware.