Tuchel wary of 'dangerous' Rodriguez ahead of Everton clash

The high-flying Londoners face a tough test the results of which could seriously influence the battle for a top-four finish.

Thomas Tuchel insists Everton have “a very strong squad” while singling out James Rodriguez ahead of the Premier League clash against them.

Everton are on a three-match winning streak and have lost just once in their previous 13 outings in all competitions.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are unbeaten in their last 10 games, having avoided a defeat ever since the managerial change in January.

Both the teams aim for Champions League qualification, with the Toffees fifth in league standings and the Blues sitting at fourth. A single point separates the two teams.

The winner of Monday night’s contest at Stamford Bridge will receive a major boost in their quest for a top-four finish, and Tuchel suggests Rodriguez could a deciding factor.

“They have a very strong squad, very physical and full of talent, with strong strikers and a dangerous no.10 with James Rodriguez,” the Chelsea boss told the official club website.

“They have strong experienced players and a super-strong manager on the sidelines with Carlo Ancelotti who knows how to keep the momentum going.

“It is good that we have a big match next because that drives us, it gets us out of bed early and then it is a very natural process to be at our top level again.”