Salomon Rondon has opted against joining the Venezuela national side this week to concentrate on getting sharper for Everton.
The 32-year old was due to play for his country against Ecuador and Peru but is determined to use the time instead to step up his fitness so he is in prime condition to play for Rafa Benitez and his club.
Rondon joined Everton from Dalian in China on August deadline day and missed pre-season training. While he had maintained a good level of fitness, the absence of those arduous summer sessions have left him short of his desired levels on his return to the Premier League.