James Rodriguez replaced by Iwobi in Everton line-up after suffering calf injury

James Rodriguez was replaced in the Everton starting XI by Alex Iwobi after the Colombian suffered a calf injury in the pre-match warm-up.

Rodriguez left the warm-up early and his injury will be assessed.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side are hosting Aston Villa in a crucial match for their European qualification hopes.

What happened in the warm-up?

Rodriguez was seen leaving the field early during the warm-up prior to kick-off against Aston Villa.

Shortly after Iwobi began to take part in a more vigorous warm-up with other players in the starting XI.

The Colombian was seen to walk off the pitch without any issues but The Athletic understands Rodriguez has sustained a calf injury.

What happened in the match?

Everton missed Rodriguez and his creativity in the final third as Everton suffered a 2-1 loss at Goodison Park.

Villa took the lead after 13 minutes through Ollie Watkins. Everton retaliated quickly through Dominic Calvert-Lewin six minutes later.

A stunning curling shot by Anwar El Ghazi in the 80th minute gave Villa the lead and Dean Smith’s side were able to hold out for all three points.

Has Rodriguez suffered other injuries this season?

Rodriguez has struggled to get consistent game time due to multiple injuries this season.

The 29-year-old has missed 12 games as a result of groin and calf injuries.

His most recent calf injury kept him out for just over a month, seeing him return in Everton’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on April 5.

(Photo: Jon Super – Pool/Getty Images)