Gerard Deulofeu nears Sevilla exit

Sevilla boss Unai Emery has made it clear that on loan midfielder Gerard Deulofeu cannot be guaranteed regular playing time at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

The talented attacker returned to Camp Nou following a successful loan spell at Everton, before he was farmed on loan at Sevilla without even being informed of club’s decision in advance.

Deulofeu has since largely struggled for playing time at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan and coach Unai Emery is adamant the player’s status will not improve unless he learns to play for the team.

“Regardless of the contract, I only select my top eleven. If for now he’s playing a little less, it does not mean that next month he will play more,” Emery said at a press conference.

“The club does not obligate me to do anything, all players are equal. His selection will come with the process of improvement.

“I hope he does, because it is a challenge we have set. We want him to improve his overall game – his team play and defensive actions.”

This will come as a fresh boost for Everton who hope to re-sign Deulofeu at the earliest opportunity and there is a chance that the attacker’s loan deal with los Rojiblancos will be cut short.

The 20-year-old has made just one substitute appearance in the league this season, while playing full 90 minutes in the Europa League triumph over Feyenoord.