James Rodriguez has revealed that his isolation is a result of him having come into contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The former Real Madrid man said on Thursday that he expected to miss the game against Southampton at Goodison Park but did not explain why.
But speaking in his press conference to preview his side’s clash with the Saints, Rafa Benitez confirmed that the Colombian was isolating and would indeed miss the game.
The Blues boss told that the playmaker was one of five players currently isolating, but opted not to name the others.
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He said: "We have some players who are in isolation now, with Covid around we have to be careful and stay at home. He is one of them."
Before continuing: "There are five players in isolation. I will not name too many of them, because it's better not to do it."
And providing an update on his health while playing video games on Twitch on Friday night, James revealed he was fine and was simply having to follow protocols.
He said: "To be at home for eight days because I was in contact with someone who had Covid and the rules here are to be at home.
“So I will be at home for eight or 10 days, but I am fine, I have nothing serious.
"I have no symptoms, you're welcome, I'm perfect."
As reported by the ECHO earlier this month, James has already been informed by the club that he can leave the Blues this summer.
That is because the former Bayern Munich man doesn't feature in his manager’s plans this season and he is free to leave, should the right offer be tabled.
Providing an update on his future on Thursday, he was quoted as saying : "There is a game on Saturday then, but I don't know, I don't think I'll play.”
Before adding: “Anything can happen here at the end of the month, football always changes fast."
