10 amazing players who spend more time on the bench than on the field

Several superstar names find themselves on the fringes of their respective teams

#3 JAMES RODRIGUEZ, REAL MADRID

James Rodriguez in Colombia colours
James Rodriguez in Colombia colours

The third and final Real Madrid player on this list, James Rodriguez is the closest to leaving Real Madrid this summer out of the three.

Rodriguez enjoyed a phenomenal World Cup campaign in 2014, following which he moved to Real Madrid for €76 million. The Colombia international had a successful first season at the club under Carlo Ancelotti, but found his importance fading away as the seasons went by.

A two-year loan move to Bayern Munich followed, at the end of which he returned to Real Madrid. The 29-year old looks set to rejoin Ancelotti at Everton, having only made eight La Liga appearances last season.


#2 CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN, INTER MILAN

Christian Eriksen has struggled at Inter Milan
Christian Eriksen has struggled at Inter Milan

Christian Eriksen's insistence on leaving Tottenham Hotspur last season resulted in a €20 million move to Inter Milan in January.

The Denmark international has not been at his very best since joining Antonio Conte's side. Eriksen has often struggled to start games, with rumours that Conte has not been happy with the midfielder's performances when given a chance.

A highly creative player, the 28-year old made just eight starts for the Italian giants in the league, with a further nine coming off the bench. He has been linked with a move away from the club.


#1 TANGUY NDOMBELE, TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

Tanguy Ndombele in action for Tottenham Hotspur
Tanguy Ndombele in action for Tottenham Hotspur

One of Ligue 1's best midfielders in his last season with Lyon, Tottenham Hotspur looked to have achieved a coup when they signed Tanguy Ndombele.

A goal on his debut was just the start he needed, but things have not looked positive since then. The departure of Mauricio Pochettino and arrival of Jose Mourinho as the new manager has resulted in the France international being ostracized, with Mourinho publicly criticising the performances of the midfielder.

The 23-year old is said to be looking to leave this summer, with Barcelona and Inter Milan among the interested parties.


Also Read: Top 10 players with most goals in a single Champions League season

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Edited by Vishal Subramanian
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