James Rodriguez could face England, says Jose Pekerman

Posted Tuesday, July 03, 2018 by Skysports.com

James Rodriguez's injury is not serious, according to Colombia manager Jose Pekerman

James Rodriguez's injury is not serious and he could be fit to face England in the last-16 of the World Cup, says Colombia manager Jose Pekerman.

The 26-year-old suffered a calf injury in the final group match against Senegal last week leading to doubt over his involvement in the game against England in Moscow on Tuesday.

Speaking ahead of the last-16 clash, Pekerman said: "We had good news after his medical tests. After his MRI (scan) we knew that he doesn't have a serious injury.

"We still have one-and-a-half days to see how he feels, and as always we hope that he will be able to play in the following games."

Rodriguez won the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup with six goals, but is yet to find the back of the net at the tournament in Russia.

If he misses the game against England, Pekerman suggested Sevilla forward Luis Muriel could replace him in the starting XI.

"Muriel is an option," he said. "He was great during the match against Senegal.

"He was able to change the pace, he's technically gifted and really fast. He works well with the team."