Rafael Benitez has sought to allay fears about Richarlison’s Everton future.
In an interview with Argentine newspaper Ole last week, Richarlison appeared to hint that his long-term prospects may not lie with the Goodison Park outfit.
The Brazil international was quoted as saying ‘I don’t know what the future holds’, despite also reaffirming his affection for the Blues in his responses.
“I’m always very careful when I talk about it,” he admitted.
“I have great affection for the people of Everton and for the club, who received me so well from the first day I arrived. I don’t know what the future holds.
“If one day I have to go, it must be good for me, but also for the club.
“But if I stay, I will continue giving my life for this shirt and for the fans, who have always supported me and were with me at all times.
“I have enormous gratitude and feel at home when I am at Finch Farm or Goodison Park.”
However Benitez downplayed speculation linking Richarlison with a move away by revealing he had discussed the player’s future with him on Thursday.
He said: “To be fair, yesterday I was having lunch with him, and then he was happy.
“We were talking about the future, about his situation.
“The main thing is to be sure he is fit, and I was talking with his people and it was a very nice conversation and everything was positive, and the player wants to be fit, to score goals and to do well for us, that’s it.”
Richarlison is set to miss Everton’s trip to Manchester United this weekend due to his ongoing injury, along with strike partner Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Winger Alex Iwobi has emerged as a doubt for the Old Trafford clash but Jean-Philippe Gbamin could play some part after he was passed fit this week.