Andros Townsend says he is 'fearful' Everton are going to challenge the Premier League's top clubs this season.
The winger, who played 90 minutes against the Blues in a 2-1 defeat for Crystal Palace late last month, has also backed James Rodriguez to flourish at Goodison Park.
Rodriguez already has three goals and assists to his name after arriving from Real Madrid and joining up with Carlo Ancelotti this summer.
Townsend told talkSPORT : “Normally players of his ilk take time [to adapt].
"It’s a new culture and a new way of playing, and maybe more physical than he’s used to.
“But he’s started very well. He created the first goal against us and was inspirational.
"I think he’ll be a very good player for Everton this season.
“I fear they will be [up there].
“They spend money every year but they seem to start very slowly and build as the year goes on.
"But now they’ve got a world class manager and he’s got his signings who seem to have hit the ground running.
“I think they’ll be right up there come the end of the season.”
