Rodrigo promises more

Last updated : 05 August 2002 By Austin Rathe
"These games are very important for me because I haven't played since May when I left Atletico Mineiro and to keep myself in the best condition I need to be playing. But I'm confident that I'll soon be at my best." Said Rodrigo, who scrored in Everton's 2-0 win over Wrexam.

"I feel about 50 per cent fit at the moment and I will do my best to make sure I'm ready for the start of the Premiership in a fortnight.

"While the coach wants to see me playing in a number of positions, I feel more comfortable playing behind the front two, linking the defence and the attack.

"But I'll play wherever the coach feels I can be of most benefit to the team."

My betting is that it will be Gravesen and Rodrigo as our two central midfielders, but it is as of yet unclear exactly how fit the Brazilian is, he looked ok against Wrexam but that wasn't a premiership game. We shall see.