Leon Osman believes James Rodriguez is bringing the best out of Gylfi Sigurdsson

Add as preferred source on Google

Former Everton stalwart Leon Osman has been singing the praises of Gylfi Sigurdsson this week, suggesting the Icelandic international has benefitted more than anyone from the arrival of James Rodriguez at Goodison Park. 

Sigurdsson has long been a beacon for pillory among the Everton fanbase, with his lacklustre and often meandering displays rightly criticised throughout last season. 

However, he has looked in far better form this season, with one goal and three assists from his first seven games of the campaign. 

That form has even continued with some impressive performances with his national team.

Osman believes that the presence of Rodriguez is the key reason why Everton’s most expensive player is finally showcasing some of his best form yet again. 

“The player to benefit the most from James’ arrival has been Sigurdsson,” Osman told Sky Sports. “He’s been terrific in all the games I’ve seen him. He’s got an intelligent player in James to pass to and when you’re his type of player, most of his strength is in his mind.

“He’s such a quick thinker, and you need players of a similar ilk around you to understand how you’re going to play and I feel he’s benefitted massively from his arrival.”

There is no doubt that the 31-year-old appears to be relishing in this improved side under Carlo Ancelotti. Whether it is the presence of higher quality players or the coaching and tactical set-up of Carlo Ancelotti, Everton fans are finally being treated to the right sort of performance from Sigurdsson yet again. 

Hopefully, that will continue this weekend, with a starring performance in the Merseyside derby.