The Colombian playmaker will not start against England
James Rodriguez has been left out of Colombia’s starting line up for their World Cup round of 16 tie against England.
The Bayern Munich forward suffered a calf injury in his country’s final group game against Senegal and was deemed a serious doubt for the clash against Gareth Southgate’s side.
While he was omitted from the first eleven, he will start the game on the bench.
Colombia come into the game having finished top of their group ahead of Japan, Senegal and Poland.
They lost their first group game 2-1 to Japan, having had Carlos Sanchez sent off for handball, before securing progression with victories against Poland and Senegal.
“We had good news after the medical tests and I knew he doesn’t have a serious injury, so we will see how he feels and as always we hope he will be able to play for the following games,” said Colombia’s coach Jose Pekerman ahead of the game.
“Can he play 90 minutes? I will tell you one hour before game. But Luis [Muriel] is an option. He was great during the match against Senegal. He has skills that are really valuable, the ability to change pace. He is technically very gifted.”
