Jack Grealish’s season ended prematurely in January. A stress fracture in his left foot required surgery, cutting short what had been a promising loan spell at Everton. The winger contributed two goals and six assists in his 21 appearances, winning the Premier League Player of the Month award in October after providing four assists in his first two starts.
The injury was a blow for David Moyes’ side, who had benefited from Grealish’s creativity and spark after his career rebirth at Everton. But one former Everton captain believes the story doesn’t have to end there.
Stubbs makes case for Jack Grealish return
Alan Stubbs, who made nearly 200 appearances for Everton across two spells, has urged the club to pursue another deal for Grealish in the summer. The lifelong Evertonian was instrumental in convincing the winger to join last August during a chance meeting in Marbella.
Speaking about Grealish to Casino Groups, Stubbs said: “Personally, I’d go back in again for Jack in the summer. It would all depend on the price with what Manchester City are wanting. We know he’d have 12 months left on his Manchester City contract and I wouldn’t have a problem with Everton doing another loan.”
Stubbs believes Grealish’s value extends beyond his own performances. “I think Jack Grealish brings a lot to the football club, not just in terms of his performances but in terms of the attraction of other players as well. I think it’s where Everton want to be. It would be a real plus when it comes to trying to bring other players in, so for me it’s a bit of a no-brainer.”
The former centre-back acknowledged the financial complications, adding: “If Everton can do a deal and Jack’s wages reflect that and come down, I wouldn’t be averse to Everton buying him either. Obviously, it would all depend on the fee.”
Numbers show Grealish impact despite injury
Grealish’s stats this season demonstrate why Everton fans took to him so quickly. From 21 appearances, he recorded two goals and six assists. He averaged two key passes per game and created five big chances overall, making him Everton’s most creative wide player before his injury.
His connection with the fanbase was evident. Stubbs noted: “Also, there’s the factor of the fans. They’ve really taken to him, and they love Jack Grealish as an individual and I think that’s reciprocated back from him to the fans as he’s been really appreciative of being loved again.”
Everton reportedly have a £50m option to buy, which looks unlikely to be activated given the club’s financial complications. Manchester City face their own dilemma, with Grealish entering the final year of his contract and Pep Guardiola’s plans seemingly not featuring the 30-year-old prominently.
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that the Citizens may need to accept another loan deal, effectively writing off any transfer fee. That scenario could suit Everton, who would welcome back a player who has openly praised Moyes’ management and formed a genuine bond with supporters.
Stubbs’ final word captures the fans’ sentiment: “I’d love to see Jack Grealish in an Everton shirt for another 12 months.” Time will tell whether the club can make it happen.
