JAMES Rodriguez is one of five Everton players currently self-isolating who will miss tomorrow's Premier League opener with Saints, boss Rafa Benitez confirmed.

Colombian star Rodriguez impressed following his move from Real Madrid last summer, scoring six goals in 23 top-flight appearances.

But he will not be available to face Ralph Hasenhuttl's men at Goodison Park tomorrow (3pm).

Benitez said: "We have some players who are in isolation now, with COVID around we have to be careful and stay at home.

"He (Rodriguez) is one of them."

Asked who else is unavailable due to isolation, the Spaniard added: "There are five players in isolation. I will not name too many of them, because it's better not to do it."

Everton are set to be boosted by the availability of both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison, following their respective international exploits over the summer.